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

Should you visit Limerick 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 Limerick and Cinque Terre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Limerick

Limerick is a fun-filled, historic, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a seaside, stunning, and traditional 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.

Limerick and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Limerick or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Limerick and Cinque Terre are popular destinations, Cinque Terre has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cinque Terre is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Limerick attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Limerick and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor. Limerick is famous for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Limerick different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Limerick is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Limerick. The town is famous for King John's Castle as well as St. Mary's Cathedral, and St. John's Square and Cathedral.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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.

Limerick offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a mix of traditional Irish restaurants and more modern international cuisine. Local specialties to try include Limerick Ham, Cahill's Whiskey Cheese, and Walnut Cheddar.

Is Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Limerick 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 Limerick. It's a student town so much of the nightlife scene centers around the student population. There are lively pubs and clubs around town so it's not hard to have a fun night out.

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 Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

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

Limerick is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Limerick 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.

Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is very good for the beach. However, Limerick 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.

Limerick is not a beach destination.

Is Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick 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.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.

Is Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is terrific for hiking. However, Limerick 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.

Limerick is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Cinque Terre?

Limerick is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for shopping.

Limerick has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a mix of brand name chains and independent boutiques in the city center. There are several major shopping streets in town including O'Connell Street, and the pedestrian streets of Bedford Row and Cruises Street.

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 Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Limerick or Cinque Terre.

Limerick offers lots of family activities. Families will enjoy visiting King John's Castle but for kids who need a break from the sightseeing, there are kid-friendly activities around town like Curraghchase Forest Park and the Peoples Park. Families should also check out the Dreamland Fun Center. Museums like Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum are also fun for the whole family.

Cinque Terre is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is terrific for couples. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Limerick is a nice destination for couples. There are river cruises, kayaking, and nature to explore. Head to the Curraghchase Forest Park or any of the many beautiful parks around town. Couples can combine history with nature and enjoy a nice, romantic trip through Limerick.

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

Cinque Terre is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

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.

Limerick is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in the area so it can be hard to find other likeminded travelers.

Is Limerick or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Limerick is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Limerick. The city has a nice student scene with plenty of areas to explore.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Limerick and Cinque Terre both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Limerick offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a city bus service that travels around town.

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

Is Limerick or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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.

Limerick is somewhat walkable. There are compact and walkable parts to the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Cinque Terre?

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

Families should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Limerick. 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 Limerick. 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 Limerick 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 Limerick or Cinque Terre?

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

Cinque Terre is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Limerick or Cinque Terre?

Limerick 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cinque Terre, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Limerick or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Limerick. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cinque Terre, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Limerick or Cinque Terre?

Limerick 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal region offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, 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 Limerick and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Limerick much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Limerick would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Limerick 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 Limerick.

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

Which is Bigger, Limerick or Cinque Terre?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Limerick 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 Limerick 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 Limerick or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Limerick and Cinque Terre. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Limerick 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.

Limerick is much colder than Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cinque Terre this time of the year. Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Limerick usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Limerick gets 57 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 Limerick or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Limerick as well as Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Limerick for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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 the autumn, Limerick is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Limerick in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Limerick usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Limerick gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Limerick or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

Both Cinque Terre and Limerick are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Limerick 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.

In January, Limerick is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 6°C (42°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Limerick gets 49 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. In January, Limerick usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cinque Terre. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Limerick or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

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

Limerick is much colder than Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Limerick gets 56 mm (2.2 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 Limerick