A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cinque Terre vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik, 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 quaint, seaside, and stunning 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.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a cultural, coastal, and historic coastal town. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cinque Terre attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and small town charm. Cinque Terre is famous for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Dubrovnik is famous for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. It is also well known for The Old Town Walls.

How is Cinque Terre different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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 Dubrovnik have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Is Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Dubrovnik is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

While Cinque Terre is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. 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.

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

Cinque Terre is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dubrovnik is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cinque Terre has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Is Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Both Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik both have fantastic historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Dubrovnik offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Is Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

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

Dubrovnik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik are both fantastic 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.

Dubrovnik is a great coastal region for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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

Dubrovnik is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Dubrovnik, as it is a very popular coastal town for budget travelers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town 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 Dubrovnik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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 Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik are fantastic when it comes to 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.

Getting around Dubrovnik on foot is easy. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

In either Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Dubrovnik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dubrovnik than Cinque Terre. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

One day in Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this famous coastal town 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 coastal town.

A weekend in Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal region has to offer. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Dubrovnik?

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal region has to offer.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this coastal destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

Cinque Terre is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Dubrovnik 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Dubrovnik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dubrovnik would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik.

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 Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Dubrovnik. Most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cinque Terre in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cinque Terre usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In January, Cinque Terre is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 8°C (46°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. In January, Cinque Terre usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Cinque Terre during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cinque Terre usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Cinque Terre