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

Should you visit Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

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

Should I visit Pamplona or Cinque Terre? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Pamplona and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pamplona. Although Pamplona and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Pamplona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pamplona is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Pamplona and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Pamplona is popular for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. It is also home to The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Pamplona different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

For foodies, Cinque Terre is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Pamplona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

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

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

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

Pamplona is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cinque Terre has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a popular place for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Cinque Terre is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Is Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

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

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Pamplona or Cinque Terre.

Pamplona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

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

Cinque Terre makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Both Pamplona and Cinque Terre offer good public transit options.

Pamplona has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

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

Is Pamplona or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Pamplona?

How long in Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

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

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

One day in Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

In Pamplona, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

Pamplona is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the elegant destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

Pamplona is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Pamplona and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Pamplona or Cinque Terre?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Pamplona 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 Pamplona 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 Pamplona or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Pamplona during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pamplona is cooler than Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pamplona in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Cinque Terre, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pamplona. In the summer, Pamplona often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Pamplona gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Pamplona usually gets more rain in July than Cinque Terre. Pamplona gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pamplona or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamplona and Cinque Terre. Many visitors come to Pamplona in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Pamplona is generally around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Pamplona average around 16°C (60°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Pamplona usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during autumn. Pamplona gets 144 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. Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pamplona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cinque Terre. Pamplona gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pamplona or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pamplona as well as Cinque Terre. Most visitors come to Pamplona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Pamplona is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Pamplona averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Pamplona often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Pamplona gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pamplona usually gets more rain in January than Cinque Terre. Pamplona gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pamplona or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Pamplona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

In the spring, Pamplona is cooler than Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pamplona in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Pamplona usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during spring. Pamplona gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. In April, Pamplona usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Pamplona gets 163 mm (6.4 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 Pamplona