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

Should you visit Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a dynamic, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a quaint, seaside, and stunning 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.

Toulouse and Cinque Terre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toulouse. Although Toulouse and Cinque Terre are popular destinations, Toulouse has more sights and attractions for tourists. Toulouse is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cinque Terre attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cinque Terre is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its charming villages, beautiful vineyards, picturesque waterfront setting, and stunning walking trail. Toulouse is famous for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also well known for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Toulouse different from Cinque Terre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulouse is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Toulouse can be an interesting and educational experience. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

Cinque Terre does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Toulouse and Cinque Terre offer a number of first-rate restaurants to choose from.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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.

Is Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Nightlife?

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

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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 Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Resorts?

Cinque Terre is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a resort destination.

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

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Beaches?

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for the beach. However, Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cinque Terre. 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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for its Old Town?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Hiking?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Families?

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Couples?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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

Cinque Terre is a coastal region with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Cinque Terre Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Cinque Terre is not popular with students.

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

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

While Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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

Is Toulouse or Cinque Terre a more walkable city?

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Cinque Terre is a very easy coastal region to get around 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.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cinque Terre or Toulouse?

How long in Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

In either Toulouse or Cinque Terre, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cinque Terre than Toulouse because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Toulouse, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cinque Terre.

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

In Toulouse, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this dynamic city offers. 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

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

Cinque Terre is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal region makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cinque Terre, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Toulouse. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cinque Terre, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

Toulouse is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cinque Terre is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal region offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Toulouse or Cinque Terre?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Cinque Terre. When comparing the sizes of Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Cinque Terre in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulouse and Cinque Terre. Most visitors come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cinque Terre because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Toulouse is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre in the summer. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 22°C (72°F) in July, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cinque Terre this time of the year. In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during summer. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulouse usually receives more rain than Cinque Terre. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Toulouse or Cinque Terre in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Cinque Terre. The autumn months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cinque Terre this time of year.

In the autumn, Toulouse is around the same temperature as Cinque Terre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Toulouse in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Cinque Terre averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cinque Terre. Toulouse usually gets less rain in October than Cinque Terre. Toulouse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Cinque Terre in the Winter?

Both Cinque Terre and Toulouse are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cinque Terre for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Toulouse is generally cooler than Cinque Terre. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 6°C (44°F), and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Cinque Terre during winter. Toulouse gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Cinque Terre receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cinque Terre. In January, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Cinque Terre. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cinque Terre receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Toulouse or Cinque Terre in the Spring?

Both Cinque Terre and Toulouse during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cinque Terre in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Toulouse is cooler than Cinque Terre in the spring. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Cinque Terre fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Cinque Terre. Toulouse gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cinque Terre receives 192 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets less rain in April than Cinque Terre. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 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 Toulouse