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

Should you visit Cinque Terre or Milan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cinque Terre or Milan, 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 traditional, charming, and picturesque 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.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Cinque Terre and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cinque Terre or Milan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan. Although Cinque Terre and Milan are popular destinations, Milan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Milan is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Milan and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Cinque Terre different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milan 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 Milan can be an interesting and educational experience. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Cinque Terre and Milan.

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 Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Milan is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Milan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan Better for Music?

Milan is renowned for its music scene. However, Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Milan has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan Better for Resorts?

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

Milan is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Cinque Terre. 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.

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre and Milan both have first-rate 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.

Milan offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for hiking. However, Milan is not a hiking destination.

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.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cinque Terre or Milan?

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

Many people travel to Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan Better for Families?

Cinque Terre and Milan 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 Milan. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

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

Milan 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

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 Milan Better for Students?

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

Milan is a great destination for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Milan is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

You'll find some public transit in Cinque Terre, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

Is Cinque Terre or Milan a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre and Milan are first-rate 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 Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Milan or Cinque Terre?

How long in Cinque Terre or Milan?

In either Cinque Terre or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Milan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Milan 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 Milan.

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

One day in Cinque Terre or Milan?

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Each neighborhood in Milan has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 city.

A weekend in Cinque Terre or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Milan 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 Milan?

Cinque Terre is a fun place to experience. Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Each neighborhood in Milan has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Milan?

Cinque Terre is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Milan is a popular place to visit. 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. 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 Milan, we can see that Milan 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 Milan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milan 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 Milan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cinque Terre or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 830 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Cinque Terre and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cinque Terre and Milan. 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. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milan this time of the year. In Cinque Terre, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cinque Terre usually receives more sunshine than Milan during summer. Cinque Terre gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cinque Terre as well as Milan. Many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Milan in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

It's quite rainy in Milan. Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cinque Terre usually gets more rain in October than Milan. Cinque Terre gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Cinque Terre are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Milan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milan can be very cold during winter. In January, Cinque Terre is generally much warmer than Milan. Daily temperatures in Cinque Terre average around 8°C (46°F), and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. In January, Cinque Terre usually receives more rain than Milan. Cinque Terre gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cinque Terre or Milan in the Spring?

Both Milan and Cinque Terre during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Milan because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Milan and Cinque Terre