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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Cinque Terre can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a seaside, stunning, and traditional coastal region. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Edinburgh and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Cinque Terre is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail.

How is Edinburgh different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Edinburgh has many famous sights for visitors. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Cinque Terre is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Cinque Terre is not a theatre destination.

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

Cinque Terre is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Music?

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

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for the beache. However, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Both Edinburgh and Cinque Terre have first-rate historic old towns worth visiting.

Edinburgh has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Cinque Terre is a good city 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 Edinburgh or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Edinburgh is a great city to visit as a student. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

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

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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 Edinburgh or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Edinburgh and Cinque Terre are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

In either Edinburgh or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Edinburgh than Cinque Terre. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this charming 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.

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

Edinburgh 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.

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal region has to offer. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this character-filled 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.

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal region has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

Edinburgh 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.

Cinque Terre is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, 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 Edinburgh and Cinque Terre, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Cinque Terre?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Edinburgh is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cinque Terre. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and Edinburgh during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In October, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

Cinque Terre gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Cinque Terre. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. Edinburgh is much colder than Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 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 Edinburgh