A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Snowdonia National Park vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a stunning, natural, and scenic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a quaint, seaside, and stunning 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.

Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cinque Terre. Although Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre are both popular with visitors, Cinque Terre has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cinque Terre is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Snowdonia National Park is known for its skiing. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is popular for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. It is also home to Vernazza Harbor. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape.

Vernazza Harbor

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cinque Terre is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Cinque Terre is not a skiing destination.

Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

Cinque Terre is not a good place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good place to visit for its resorts. However, Snowdonia National Park 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Snowdonia National Park 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Cinque Terre has a beach worth visiting. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

You'll find terrific hiking in both Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre.

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Known for its hiking, Cinque Terre draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is a moderate coastal region for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Cinque Terre has some nice offerings. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Both Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre are terrific destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Snowdonia National Park has plenty to offer. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Cinque Terre has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

Cinque Terre is a good national park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre offer good public transit options.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

In either Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Cinque Terre because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

Couples should spend more time in Cinque Terre than Snowdonia National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

In Snowdonia National Park, many people enjoy the food that this natural national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 is a small town with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

Snowdonia National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Cinque Terre is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

In Snowdonia National Park, many people enjoy the food that this scenic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cinque Terre. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, 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 Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre, we can see that Cinque Terre is more expensive. And not only is Snowdonia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Snowdonia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park.

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

When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and Snowdonia National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park 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.

In the summer, Snowdonia National Park is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°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 Snowdonia National Park. In the summer, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in July than Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Cinque Terre. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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 October, Snowdonia National Park is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 12°C (53°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 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, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Cinque Terre. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Cinque Terre in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in January than Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cinque Terre during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 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 Snowdonia National Park