A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers The Hague vs. Cinque Terre for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

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

The Hague

The Hague is a international, bustling, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a traditional, charming, and picturesque coastal region. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

The Hague and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in The Hague or Cinque Terre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in The Hague than Cinque Terre, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. The Hague is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. Also, The Hague is famous for The Peace Palace.

How is The Hague different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

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

The Hague has a large number of nightlife venues. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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 The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Music?

The Hague is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in The Hague while you're in town. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Cinque Terre is not a live music destination.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, The Hague is not a resort destination.

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.

The Hague is not a resort destination.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cinque Terre is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is very good for its beaches. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Cinque Terre offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Each of the five towns have their own charming old town which have restaurants and local boutique shops.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its hiking trails. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Cinque Terre?

The Hague 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 The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

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 The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either The Hague or Cinque Terre.

The Hague is a family-friendly city. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

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 The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague and Cinque Terre are both notable destinations for backpackers.

The Hague is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

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 The Hague or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

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

The Hague is a great destination for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

The Hague 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 The Hague can get you to most places easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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 The Hague or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is an amazing coastal region to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Cinque Terre?

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

Families should spend more time in Cinque Terre than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Cinque Terre?

Each neighborhood in The Hague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Even though Cinque Terre is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in The Hague or Cinque Terre?

The Hague 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 small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal region has to offer. This coastal region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in The Hague or Cinque Terre?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the diverse big city of The Hague. 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.

Cinque Terre is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal region has to offer.

A week in The Hague or Cinque Terre?

The Hague 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.

Cinque Terre is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, 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 The Hague and Cinque Terre, we can see that The Hague is more expensive. And not only is Cinque Terre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cinque Terre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cinque Terre 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 The Hague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hague than you might in Cinque Terre.

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

Which is Bigger, The Hague or Cinque Terre?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of The Hague 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

Both Cinque Terre and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to The Hague 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 July, The Hague is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 17°C (62°F), 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 The Hague. The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, The Hague usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit The Hague or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

Both Cinque Terre and The Hague during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to The Hague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. 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.

The Hague is much colder than Cinque Terre in the autumn. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. The Hague gets 105 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. The Hague usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit The Hague or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

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

The Hague can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, The Hague is much colder than Cinque Terre. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hague in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 8°C (46°F).

The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. The Hague gets 47 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. In January, The Hague usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit The Hague or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Cinque Terre. Most visitors come to The Hague for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, The Hague is generally much colder than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 8°C (46°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 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 The Hague