A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Cinque Terre. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a unique, beautiful, and spectacular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a picturesque, idyllic, and quaint coastal region. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Lake District National Park and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Lake District National Park and Cinque Terre are popular destinations, Cinque Terre has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Lake District National Park and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Lake District National Park different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Cinque Terre, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Cinque Terre doesn't offer many options. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lake District National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Lake District National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a good destination for the beach. However, Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Cinque Terre offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Lake District National Park and Cinque Terre, and they are world-class.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

People visit Cinque Terre specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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 Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Cinque Terre has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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 Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cinque Terre is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Cinque Terre is a good national park 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 Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cinque Terre is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Cinque Terre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

In either Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than Cinque Terre because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

Families should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful national park 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.

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

Lake District National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Many people visit Cinque Terre for a weekend. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this spectacular 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre?

Lake District National Park 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, a popular coastal region, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, 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 Lake District National Park and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park.

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

When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and Lake District National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park gets 69 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Cinque Terre. The winter months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. In January, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 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. Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Cinque Terre. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 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 Lake District National Park