A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Pompeii vs. Cinque Terre for Couples, Families, and Backpackers

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

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a stunning, traditional, and charming 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.

Pompeii and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Pompeii 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, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums. Pompeii is famous for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Cinque Terre is famous for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also well known for Vernazza Harbor.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Pompeii different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii is renowned for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Pompeii has many famous sights for visitors. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Neither Pompeii or Cinque Terre offer decent nightlife.

Pompeii doesn't offer many options. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

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 Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

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

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

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

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

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Cinque Terre is one of the most recognized in the world. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

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

Pompeii and Cinque Terre are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Pompeii is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cinque Terre. 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 Pompeii or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Pompeii and Cinque Terre.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Pompeii and Cinque Terre are terrific when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

Getting around Cinque Terre on foot is easy. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

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

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

In Pompeii, many people enjoy the museums that this iconic archeological site offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this archeological site.

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

A weekend in Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

Pompeii 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. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer.

Five days in Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums around the iconic destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cinque Terre has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pompeii or Cinque Terre?

Pompeii 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. Since Cinque Terre is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Pompeii and Cinque Terre, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cinque Terre. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre during summer. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pompeii usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pompeii or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and Pompeii during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, 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, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pompeii in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Pompeii often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre. Pompeii gets 189 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 Pompeii. Pompeii usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pompeii or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Cinque Terre. Many visitors come to Pompeii in the winter for the museums. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Pompeii is generally around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 8°C (47°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Pompeii gets 115 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. Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pompeii or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Cinque Terre. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Pompeii is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Pompeii often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 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 Pompeii