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

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Florence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Florence, 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 idyllic, quaint, and seaside coastal region. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cinque Terre and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florence. Although Cinque Terre and Florence are both popular with visitors, Florence has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Florence is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Cinque Terre is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Florence is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Cinque Terre different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is renowned for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Florence has many famous sights for visitors. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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 Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Cinque Terre or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Florence 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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

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 Florence Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Florence Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre and Florence both have amazing 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.

Florence offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is Cinque Terre or Florence Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Florence?

Florence is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Cinque Terre and Florence are both good destinations for the whole family.

Cinque Terre is a family-friendly coastal region. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Cinque Terre or Florence Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre and Florence 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.

Florence is a great coastal region for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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

Florence 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 Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cinque Terre and Florence.

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 Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Cinque Terre or Florence a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre and Florence are amazing 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Florence?

Both Cinque Terre and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Cinque Terre. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

One day in Cinque Terre or Florence?

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this artistic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Florence?

Cinque Terre is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cinque Terre, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Cinque Terre or Florence?

Cinque Terre is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cinque Terre, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Florence, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this iconic destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cinque Terre or Florence?

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal region offers something for everyone.

Florence is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 comparing the travel costs between Cinque Terre and Florence, we can see that Florence 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 Cinque Terre Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Florence. The summer months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In July, Cinque Terre is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 24°C (75°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence 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 Florence during summer. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Florence. 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. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

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

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in October than Florence. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cinque Terre is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cinque Terre in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. In January, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Florence. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Cinque Terre during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cinque Terre is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 14°C (57°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Cinque Terre often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in April than Florence. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Cinque Terre