A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cinque Terre vs. Como for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Como?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Como, 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 stunning, traditional, and charming coastal region. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Como?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Cinque Terre and Como are popular destinations, Cinque Terre has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cinque Terre is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Como attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Cinque Terre is famous for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Como is famous for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Cinque Terre different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como 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 Como?

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

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Cinque Terre and Como.

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 Como have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Is Cinque Terre or Como Better for Nightlife?

Como is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Como. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

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 Como Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Como 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.

Como is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cinque Terre has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Como Better for Beaches?

Both Cinque Terre and Como 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 Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Cinque Terre or Como Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Cinque Terre is one of the most recognized in the world. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Cinque Terre or Como Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Cinque Terre draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Como?

Como is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many people travel to Como specifically to go shopping. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Families?

Como 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 Como. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

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 Como Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre and Como are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Cinque Terre has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Como is a great coastal region for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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

Como 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 Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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 Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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 Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Cinque Terre or Como a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cinque Terre. 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.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Cinque Terre or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Como. 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 Como 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 Como.

One day in Cinque Terre or Como?

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 Como, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic lake area offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cinque Terre or Como?

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.

Como 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cinque Terre or Como?

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 nightlife and food around the trendy destination of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Como?

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.

Como 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.

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 Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Cinque Terre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cinque Terre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cinque Terre 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como than you might in Cinque Terre.

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 Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Como?

Como has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Como this time of year.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Como in the summer. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre usually receives more sunshine than Como during summer. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cinque Terre usually receives less rain than Como. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Cinque Terre during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cinque Terre is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cinque Terre in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Como averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Cinque Terre often gets more sunshine than Como. Cinque Terre gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in October than Como. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Como in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Como. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Como can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cinque Terre is generally much warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 8°C (46°F), and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Cinque Terre gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Como. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Como in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Como. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Como in the spring. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Cinque Terre often gets more sunshine than Como. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in April than Como. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Cinque Terre