A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Sestri Levante vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a quaint, relaxing, and quiet seaside town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

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. 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.

Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

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

Vernazza Harbor
Vernazza Harbor

How is Sestri Levante different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Cinque Terre have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.


Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Neither Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Sestri Levante There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

People don't go to Cinque Terre for the nightlife. 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 Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Sestri Levante is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cinque Terre is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Sestri Levante has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

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 Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Both Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre are considered to be nice beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sestri Levante. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

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.

Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.

Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is renowned for hiking. However, Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.

Around Cinque Terre visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Both Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre are nice to visit with kids.

Sestri Levante offers lots of family activities. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

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 Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is renowned for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Cinque Terre is a great coastal region for couples, as it 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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.


Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cinque Terre is a good coastal region 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

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

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

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

While Sestri Levante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

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

Is Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre

Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Sestri Levante is a very easy seaside town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Sestri Levante?

How long in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

In either Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Sestri Levante because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Sestri Levante, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

Families should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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.


  • How many days in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sestri Levante 1-3 
    Cinque Terre 2-5

One day in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Sestri Levante is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this seaside town.

In Cinque Terre, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Sestri Levante 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Sestri Levante is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Sestri Levante 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint coastal region of Cinque Terre. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Cinque Terre or Sestri Levante?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sestri Levante is €143, 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 Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sestri Levante 75
    Cinque Terre 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sestri Levante 150
    Cinque Terre 144
Compare Hotels in Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre

Looking for a hotel in Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante


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: Sestri Levante Hotel Prices and Cinque Terre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sestri Levante 56
    Cinque Terre 16

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 Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Prices for flights to both Cinque Terre and Sestri Levante 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
    Sestri Levante 34
    Cinque Terre 41

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.
    Sestri Levante 25
    Cinque Terre 13

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sestri Levante.

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $510

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
    Sestri Levante 7.86
    Cinque Terre 6.71

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 Sestri Levante and Cinque Terre, we can see that Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante Expensive? and Is Cinque Terre Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sestri Levante or Cinque Terre?

Sestri Levante has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Sestri Levante 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.