A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cinque Terre vs. Imperia for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Imperia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Imperia, 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. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cinque Terre and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Cinque Terre and Imperia are popular destinations, Cinque Terre has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cinque Terre is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Imperia attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

Vernazza Harbor
Vernazza Harbor

How is Cinque Terre different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Cinque Terre is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Cinque Terre or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

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 Imperia Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


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

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Cinque Terre is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Cinque Terre can be explored in its historical center. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is Cinque Terre or Imperia Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia is not a hiking destination.

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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Imperia?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

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

Imperia has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

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 Imperia Better for Families?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre and Imperia are both nice 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 Imperia. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Cinque Terre or Imperia Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Cinque Terre makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

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

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre and Imperia are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cinque Terre. 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.

Imperia is a good coastal region to visit for backpackers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Cinque Terre
Imperia

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

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 Imperia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Cinque Terre or Imperia a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre
Imperia

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cinque Terre or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cinque Terre than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cinque Terre, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

Families should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Cinque Terre than Imperia 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 Cinque Terre.


  • How many days in Cinque Terre or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cinque Terre 2-5 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Cinque Terre or Imperia?

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.

In Imperia, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this undiscovered town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Cinque Terre or Imperia?

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.

Imperia is a fun place to experience. 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 Imperia?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Imperia. 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 Imperia?

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.

Imperia is a popular place to visit. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Cinque Terre?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cinque Terre is €140, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cinque Terre and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cinque Terre 72
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cinque Terre 144
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Cinque Terre and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Cinque Terre or Imperia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cinque Terre


Hotels in Imperia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cinque Terre Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cinque Terre 16
    Imperia 36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cinque Terre

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Cinque Terre:


  • Ferry Day Pass
    15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cinque Terre

Also for Cinque Terre, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Cinque Terre to La Spezia by car or van: $141

Is it cheaper to fly into Cinque Terre or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Cinque Terre change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cinque Terre 41
    Imperia 35
Typical Food Prices in Cinque Terre

For Cinque Terre, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Whole Pizza
    9.50
  • Panini
    3.75
  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    52
  • Fresh Focaccia
    2.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cinque Terre

For Cinque Terre, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Riomaggiore: $175
  • 3-course Cooking Class with seaview in Riomaggiore: $208
  • Cinque Terre Food Tour (half day): $276

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cinque Terre 13
    Imperia 13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cinque Terre

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cinque Terre's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Double Kayak Rental (One Hour)
    10
  • Bagni Eden Beach Club Umbrella
    16
  • Cinque Terre Card (One Day)
    5.00
  • Cinque Terre Card (Three Days)
    12

Tours and Activities in Cinque Terre

For Cinque Terre, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Tour by Train with Limoncino: $65
  • La Spezia: Cinque Terre Guided Hiking Tour: $65
  • Kayak experience with Carnassa Tour in Cinque Terre + Snorkeling: $74
  • Kayak tour from Monterosso to Vernazza: $99
  • 2-Hour Boat Tour at sunset in the Cinque Terre with Pesto tasting and focaccia: $105
  • Cinque Terre Hybrid Boat Tour: $110
  • The heart of the 5 Terre: Monterosso and national park ebike tour: $121
  • Cinque Terre Morning Tour: $132
  • Cinque Terre Sunset Cruise with Aperitif: $132
  • Sunset Cinque Terre Boat Tour with a traditional ligurian gozzo from Monterosso: $138
  • 3 Hour Cinque Terre tour plus Swim Stops at Secluded Beaches: $143
  • Cinque Terre Sunset Tour : $143

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cinque Terre 6.71
    Imperia 7.50
Typical Alcohol Prices in Cinque Terre

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Cinque Terre:


  • Glass of Local Wine
    2.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Cinque Terre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cinque Terre:

  • Cinque terre wine tour and tasting with the somelier: $75
  • Cinque Terre Walking Tour with Food and Wine Tastings: $149
  • Natural Wine Tasting with sea view in Riomaggiore: $197


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

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 Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Imperia?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Cinque Terre or Imperia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Imperia. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Imperia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cinque Terre this time of the year. In the summer, Cinque Terre often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in July than Imperia. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cinque Terre 24°C (75°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cinque Terre is cooler than Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cinque Terre in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during autumn. Cinque Terre gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. In October, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Imperia. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cinque Terre 17°C (63°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Imperia in the Winter?

Both Imperia and Cinque Terre during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In January, Cinque Terre is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 8°C (46°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Cinque Terre often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Cinque Terre gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in January than Imperia. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cinque Terre 8°C (46°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Imperia. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Cinque Terre usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during spring. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Imperia. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cinque Terre 14°C (57°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 24°C (75°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 9°C (48°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)