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

Should you visit Inverness or Cinque Terre?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Cinque Terre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a traditional, local, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a seaside, stunning, and traditional coastal region. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Inverness and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Inverness or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Inverness and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Cinque Terre has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cinque Terre is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Inverness is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Inverness and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also home to Vernazza Harbor. Inverness is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Inverness different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Inverness 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 Inverness can be an interesting and educational experience. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Cinque Terre has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Inverness has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Is Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Inverness 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 Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun 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 Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

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

Inverness is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Inverness is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Inverness is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is very good for the beache. However, Inverness is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Cinque Terre to enjoy the beach. 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.

Inverness is not a beach destination.

Is Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its old town. However, Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Cinque Terre has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Is Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking. 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.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Cinque Terre?

Inverness 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 Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

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 Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Inverness or Cinque Terre.

Inverness is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Cinque Terre is a family-friendly city. 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 Inverness or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Cinque Terre 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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cinque Terre is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Cinque Terre has a few public transit options. Most people arrive by train but there are also ferries available.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Inverness or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Inverness is a very walkable destination. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Cinque Terre?

In either Inverness or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Inverness because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

One day in Inverness or Cinque Terre?

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

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 Inverness or Cinque Terre?

Inverness 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.

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 Inverness or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Inverness. 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.

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 Inverness or Cinque Terre?

Inverness 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Inverness or Cinque Terre?

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

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 Inverness or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

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

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

In Cinque Terre, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets more rain in July than Cinque Terre. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Inverness or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

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

In October, Inverness is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 9°C (49°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during autumn. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cinque Terre receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Inverness usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Inverness or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

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

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

In the winter, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Inverness usually gets less rain in January than Cinque Terre. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Inverness or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Inverness is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Inverness in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during spring. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Inverness usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cinque Terre and Inverness