A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Beaches, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Paros 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 Paros 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.

Paros

Paros is a diverse, stunning, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Paros and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Paros or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Paros has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paros is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Cinque Terre is known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Paros and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Paros is popular for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also home to The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani.

How is Paros different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros 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 Paros can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Paros
Cinque Terre

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paros and Cinque Terre.

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

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.

Is Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Cinque Terre

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

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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 Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Paros is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

While Cinque Terre is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. 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.


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

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Paros to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

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.

Is Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros is renowned for the beach. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches in Paros are among the best in the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

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.

Is Paros or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is terrific for its old town. However, Paros 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.

Paros does not have a historic old town.


Is Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Cinque Terre is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Cinque Terre?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros 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 Paros. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

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 Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros 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 Paros. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

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 Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros and Cinque Terre both world-class destinations for a couple.

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

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.

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

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros 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 Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Cinque Terre is a good island 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 Paros or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Paros is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cinque Terre is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Paros can get you to most places easily. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

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 Paros or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Paros
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Paros?

How long in Paros or Cinque Terre?

In either Paros or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paros has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paros than Cinque Terre. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Paros or Cinque Terre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Cinque Terre 2-5

One day in Paros or Cinque Terre?

In Paros, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this stunning island offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paros or Cinque Terre?

Paros is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Paros or Cinque Terre?

In Paros, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this stunning destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. 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 fun place to experience. Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paros or Cinque Terre?

Paros is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Cinque Terre or Paros?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Paros is €122, while the average daily cost in Cinque Terre is €140. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Paros and Cinque Terre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Cinque Terre 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Cinque Terre 144
Compare Hotels in Paros and Cinque Terre

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Cinque Terre? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Paros


Hotels in Cinque Terre


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Paros Hotel Prices and Cinque Terre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Cinque Terre 16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paros

Also for Paros, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Naxos Port-Airport To All Destinations: $55

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cinque Terre

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Cinque Terre:


  • Ferry Day Pass
    15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cinque Terre

Also for Cinque Terre, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Cinque Terre to La Spezia by car or van: $141

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Cinque Terre?

Prices for flights to both Cinque Terre and Paros change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Paros 45
    Cinque Terre 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paros

For Paros, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Two and half-hours Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Amorgos: $60
  • Naxos Town Food Tour : $93
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $97
  • Naxos Perivoli Farm Experience & Wood-fire Cooking Class: $105
  • Naxos:Half-day cooking class at Basiliko : $107
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $115
  • Food Tasting and Cooking Class on Naxos with Local Market Visit: $116
  • Paros Cooking Class: $117
  • Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup: $154
  • Naxos Villages Food Tour : $163
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $652

Typical Food Prices in Cinque Terre

For Cinque Terre, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Whole Pizza
    9.50
  • Panini
    3.75
  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    52
  • Fresh Focaccia
    2.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cinque Terre

For Cinque Terre, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Riomaggiore: $175
  • 3-course Cooking Class with seaview in Riomaggiore: $208
  • Cinque Terre Food Tour (half day): $276

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Cinque Terre 13

Tours and Activities in Paros

For Paros, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Full One-Day Tour Naxos & Heraklia: $176
  • Sightseeing Tours by Alexander Boat: $55
  • 2-Hour Private Beach Picnic Experience in Paros: $82
  • All inclusive day sailing tour from Naxos to the small cyclades: $154
  • All-Inclusive Catamaran Day Cruise: $165
  • Antiparos & Despotiko full day cruise from Paros: $99
  • Boat Cruise to Iraklia & Schinousa with BBQ: $77
  • Catamaran Full-Day Cruise around Naxos or Paros with Lunch: $154
  • DAY CRUISE Koufonisi traditional Kaiki from Paros : $121
  • Daily Cruise - Koufonissia & Rina Cave: $88
  • Daily Cruise from Paros to Delos Mykonos: $84
  • Daily Cruise from Paros to Santorini: $107

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cinque Terre

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cinque Terre's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Double Kayak Rental (One Hour)
    10
  • Bagni Eden Beach Club Umbrella
    16
  • Cinque Terre Card (One Day)
    5.00
  • Cinque Terre Card (Three Days)
    12

Tours and Activities in Cinque Terre

For Cinque Terre, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Cinque Terre Sunset Cruise with Swim Stop: $165
  • 2-Hour Boat Tour at sunset in the Cinque Terre with Pesto tasting and focaccia: $105
  • 3 Hour Cinque Terre tour plus Swim Stops at Secluded Beaches: $143
  • 3-Hour Private Boat Tour of the Cinque Terre: $253
  • Cinque Terre Boat Tour with seafood lunch in Vernazza: $215
  • Cinque Terre Hybrid Boat Tour: $110
  • Cinque Terre Lunch boat tour: $204
  • Cinque Terre Morning Tour: $132
  • Cinque Terre Paddleboarding cruise at sunrise or sunset: $220
  • Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour: $220
  • Cinque Terre Private half day tour with Official Tour Guide: $272
  • Cinque Terre Small Group or Private Day Tour from Florence: $252

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Cinque Terre 6.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

Also in Paros, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery in Naxos: $61
  • Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos: $66
  • 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $165
  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $168

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cinque Terre

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Cinque Terre:


  • Glass of Local Wine
    2.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Cinque Terre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cinque Terre:

  • Cinque terre wine tour and tasting with the somelier: $75
  • Cinque Terre Walking Tour with Food and Wine Tastings: $149
  • Natural Wine Tasting with sea view in Riomaggiore: $197


When comparing the travel costs between Paros 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 Paros Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paros or Cinque Terre?

Paros has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.