A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Catania or Cinque Terre?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Catania and Cinque Terre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a charming, picturesque, and idyllic coastal region. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Catania and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Catania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Catania is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Catania and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna.

How is Catania different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cinque Terre and Catania. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Catania or Cinque Terre?

Catania is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Catania or Cinque Terre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Catania and Cinque Terre offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Cinque Terre is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Like much of Italy, the area focuses on local flavors that include lots of seafood, as well as local fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The towns are known for their focaccia, which actually originated in nearby Genoa. Anchovies are a favorite here as well, and don't be turned off by your experience with anchovies outside of Italy. They don't compare. Also make sure you sample the pesto, mussels, and any fresh caught seafood.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Catania is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Catania has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Cinque Terre. The whole point of a trip to the area is to soak up the quiet village atmosphere. There is basically no nightlife in most of the towns, but you will find a few bars in Monterosso.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Catania is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Cinque Terre, but you'll find a few options to choose from. Most people stay in apartments or rooms in local hotels or family homes. There aren't many resorts in the traditional sense, but again, that's part of the charm of the area.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Cinque Terre. The surrounding waters are part of the of the Pelagos Sanctuary. The area has many rocky coves which are fun to explore with a mask and snorkel. There are also boat excursions available that may let you stop to snorkel, as well as a few dive spots in the area.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Catania and Cinque Terre are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Cinque Terre has a beach worth visiting. The area is more about the towns than the beaches. The most typical beach setting is in the newer part of Monterosso. There's a long sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas available. There's also a beach near the town's old town. Several of the other towns have swimming areas, including a small stretch of pebbly sand in Vernazza. It's fun to swim between the months of May and October, when the water temperatures are fairly warm.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Cinque Terre has a world-famous historical area. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking. The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Cinque Terre?

Catania is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Cinque Terre is a good destination for shopping. The towns are more about the atmosphere than the shops, but the best shopping can be found in the largest town of Monterosso. You'll find jewelry, clothing, and local food items that are fun to take home as souvenirs.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Catania is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Catania. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cinque Terre. The five towns are all about exploring on foot, so if that's your kid's thing, then they're in for a treat. The hilly terrain can be a bit tricky, particularly for the little ones, but for older kids this area offers the perfect amount of challenge. There are also a couple of beaches and swimming spots as well as a playground or two around. Food, like most of Italy, is very kid-friendly.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Cinque Terre has plenty to offer. These stunning five Italian villages are perched precariously on the water's edge. They're surrounded by beautiful vineyards and connected by impressive hiking trails. This area is truly a dream honeymoon destination and it is sure to make a memorable vacation for any couple who enjoys exploring charming village.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Cinque Terre is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of rooms available in the towns and there are even a couple of hostels including one in Riomaggiore and one in Corniglia. It's possible to find affordable food and accommodation, and your entertainment is simply wandering the area, which is perfect for budget travelers.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Catania is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Catania is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Catania is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Catania can get you to most places easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

You'll find some public transit in Cinque Terre, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

Is Catania or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Cinque Terre on foot. Vehicle traffic in the towns are heavily restricted so it's very enjoyable to explore on foot. The terrain is hilly and uneven, but that's part of the charm. There are also hiking trails that connect each of the five towns.

Catania is a very walkable destination. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Cinque Terre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Catania?

How long in Catania or Cinque Terre?

In either Catania or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Catania because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

Families should spend more time in Catania than Cinque Terre. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Catania, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Catania. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cinque Terre that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania than Cinque Terre if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Catania.

One day in Catania or Cinque Terre?

In Catania, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fun port city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Cinque Terre?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Cinque Terre?

Catania is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. Since Cinque Terre is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Catania and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Catania Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Cinque Terre?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Cinque Terre, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Catania or Cinque Terre?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Catania or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Catania during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Cinque Terre, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Catania. In the summer, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in July than Cinque Terre. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Catania is generally a little warmer than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre during autumn. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Catania usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Catania or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Catania as well as Cinque Terre. Many visitors come to Catania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Catania is a little warmer than Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets more sunshine than Cinque Terre. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Catania usually gets less rain in January than Cinque Terre. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre during spring. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Catania usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cinque Terre and Catania