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

Should you visit Prague 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 Prague 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.

Prague

Prague is a fun-filled, cultural, and historical city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, shopping, and museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a idyllic, quaint, and seaside 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.

Prague and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Prague or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Prague. Although Prague and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Prague has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Prague is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Prague is popular for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also home to The Prague Castle. Cinque Terre is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail.

How is Prague different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Prague has many famous sights for visitors. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Prague is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Prague is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

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 Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Music?

Prague is renowned for its music scene. However, Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Prague has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Is Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

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

Prague is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Prague 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.

Prague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a good destination for the beache. However, Prague 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.

Prague is not a beach destination.

Is Prague or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Prague and Cinque Terre.

With a famous historical old-town, Prague offers plenty to see. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

The rich history of Cinque Terre can be explored in its historical center. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

Is Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Prague is not a hiking destination.

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.

Prague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Prague or Cinque Terre?

Prague 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 Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

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 Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Prague 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 Prague. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

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 Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

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

Prague is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

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 Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague 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 Prague, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

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 Prague or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

Prague is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

Prague is a great destination for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

Prague is renowned 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.

Prague has a great public transit system. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

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 Prague or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Prague and Cinque Terre both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Prague on foot. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Prague?

How long in Prague or Cinque Terre?

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

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

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

One day in Prague or Cinque Terre?

Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Prague or Cinque Terre?

Prague is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Prague or Cinque Terre?

Each neighborhood in Prague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Prague or Cinque Terre?

Prague is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic, 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 Prague and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Prague much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Prague would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Prague 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 Prague.

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

Which is Bigger, Prague or Cinque Terre?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 740 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Prague 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 Prague 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 Prague or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Prague during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Prague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, 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.

In the summer, Prague is cooler than Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Prague in July average around 19°C (66°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 Prague. In the summer, Prague often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Prague gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Prague usually gets more rain in July than Cinque Terre. Prague gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Prague or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Prague and Cinque Terre. Most visitors come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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 October, Prague is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Prague average around 11°C (52°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Prague usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during autumn. Prague gets 124 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. In October, Prague usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Prague gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Prague or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Prague as well as Cinque Terre. The winter months attract visitors to Prague because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

The weather in Prague can be very cold. Prague is much colder than Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Prague averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Prague often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Prague gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Prague usually gets less rain in January than Cinque Terre. Prague gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Prague or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Prague are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Prague this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Prague is cooler than Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Prague in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Prague usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during spring. Prague gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Prague usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Prague gets 51 mm (2 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 Prague