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

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Korcula?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Korcula, 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. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Korcula

Korcula is a laid back, historic, and scenic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cinque Terre and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Korcula?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Korcula. Although Cinque Terre and Korcula are both popular with visitors, Korcula has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Korcula is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Cinque Terre is known for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Korcula and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Korcula is popular for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also home to St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Cinque Terre different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Korcula 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 Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Cinque Terre have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Cinque Terre or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Korcula. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

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 Korcula Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not so good for its resorts. However, Korcula 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.

Korcula is not a resort destination.

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

You'll find good snorkeling or scuba diving in both Cinque Terre and Korcula.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Is Cinque Terre or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Korcula is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Korcula. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cinque Terre. 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.

Is Cinque Terre or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its old town. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Is Cinque Terre or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Cinque Terre visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors go to Korcula for the hiking trails. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Korcula?

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

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

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 Korcula Better for Families?

Korcula 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 Korcula. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

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 Korcula Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Cinque Terre is a great coastal region for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Korcula is a great coastal region if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

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

Cinque Terre and Korcula are both good 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.

Korcula is a good coastal region to visit for backpackers. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Cinque Terre or Korcula Better for Students?

Korcula is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Is Cinque Terre or Korcula a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Cinque Terre on foot is easy. 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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable coastal region. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Korcula?

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

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

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

One day in Cinque Terre or Korcula?

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 Korcula, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this laid back island 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Korcula?

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 food around the historic destination of Korcula. 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula 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 Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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 Korcula Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Korcula?

Korcula has a larger population, and is about 100% larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Cinque Terre during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Korcula for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cinque Terre is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 24°C (75°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cinque Terre. In the summer, Cinque Terre often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Korcula. Cinque Terre gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Korcula. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Korcula in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Korcula in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cinque Terre averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. Cinque Terre usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during autumn. Cinque Terre gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Korcula. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Korcula. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cinque Terre is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cinque Terre in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Korcula averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cinque Terre often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Cinque Terre gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in January than Korcula. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Cinque Terre is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 14°C (57°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. Cinque Terre usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during spring. Cinque Terre gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Korcula. Cinque Terre gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Cinque Terre