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

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Bari, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a seaside, stunning, and traditional coastal region. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bari

Bari is a cultural, authentic, and local 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 and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari. Although Cinque Terre and Bari are popular destinations, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Bari and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also well known for San Nicola.

How is Cinque Terre different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bari can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Cinque Terre and Bari.

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.

Many restaurants in Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Nightlife?

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

Bari has a large number of nightlife venues. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Bari is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Cinque Terre offers a few options. 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.

Bari is not a resort destination.

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

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Beaches?

Both Cinque Terre and Bari have nice beaches worth visiting.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Bari. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Cinque Terre or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Cinque Terre has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is terrific for hiking. However, Bari is not a hiking destination.

Cinque Terre is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Bari?

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

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

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 Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Families?

Bari 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 Bari. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is terrific for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Cinque Terre is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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

Bari 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Cinque Terre is a good coastal region 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 Cinque Terre or Bari Better for Students?

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

Bari is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cinque Terre and Bari.

Cinque Terre has some public transit options. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

You'll find some public transit in Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Cinque Terre or Bari a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Cinque Terre is a very easy coastal region to get around 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.

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cinque Terre and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than in Bari. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari 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 Bari.

One day in Cinque Terre or Bari?

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Bari, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic port city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

A weekend in Cinque Terre or Bari?

Cinque Terre is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Five days in Cinque Terre or Bari?

Cinque Terre might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This coastal region offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Cinque Terre or Bari?

Because Cinque Terre is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Bari is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cinque Terre and Bari, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Bari much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bari would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bari and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cinque Terre would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cinque Terre than you might in Bari.

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

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Bari, 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 Cinque Terre or Bari?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Bari. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Cinque Terre, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during summer. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Bari. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Bari. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cinque Terre in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Cinque Terre often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Cinque Terre gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cinque Terre is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 8°C (46°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during winter. Cinque Terre gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. In January, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Bari. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Cinque Terre during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Cinque Terre often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Cinque Terre