A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Corfu or Cinque Terre?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Cinque Terre, 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.

Corfu

Corfu is a relaxing, stunning, and natural island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a picturesque, idyllic, and quaint 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.

Corfu and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Corfu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Corfu is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Cinque Terre is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Corfu and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Corfu is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also home to Canal d'Amour.

How is Corfu different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cinque Terre and Corfu. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Foodies will find both Corfu and Cinque Terre both to be amazing destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Corfu is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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.

Is Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Corfu is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Corfu has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Corfu is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Corfu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Corfu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

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.

Is Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Corfu is renowned for the beach. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches in Corfu are among the best in the world. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Cinque Terre is revered around the world. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Is Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Corfu and Cinque Terre are both places where visitors can find amazing hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Corfu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

Corfu 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 Corfu. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Corfu is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Corfu is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Corfu and Cinque Terre are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Corfu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Cinque Terre is a great island 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.

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

Corfu 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 Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Cinque Terre is a good island 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 Corfu or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Corfu is a very popular place 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.

The public transit in Corfu can get you to most places easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Cinque Terre is a very easy coastal region to get around 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.

Corfu is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

In either Corfu or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than Cinque Terre because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

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

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

One day in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

In Corfu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this stunning 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.

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.

A weekend in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

Corfu is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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.

Five days in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

In Corfu, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this breathtaking 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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.

A week in Corfu or Cinque Terre?

Corfu is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Corfu Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Cinque Terre?

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

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 Corfu or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Cinque Terre. The summer months attract visitors to Corfu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, 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.

In the summer, Corfu is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Corfu in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cinque Terre this time of the year. In Corfu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Corfu usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Corfu or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Cinque Terre. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Corfu is generally around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 18°C (65°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Corfu receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Corfu usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cinque Terre. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

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

Corfu is a little warmer than Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 10°C (49°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre during winter. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. It's quite rainy in Corfu. In January, Corfu usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Corfu or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Corfu is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Corfu in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cinque Terre and Corfu