Cinque Terre Vs Amalfi Coast: Where Should You Go?

Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre – which one is better? This is a question that has been asked by many tourists who are looking for the perfect Italian getaway.

Both destinations offer stunning coastal views and delicious food, but which one should you choose?

In this blog post, we will compare Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre and help you decide which is the best destination for you.

We came up with several criteria so that you can really see the main differences between the two.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Accommodation

One of the most important things to consider when traveling to Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast is the type of accommodation available and the pricing.

Accommodation In Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Italy. Amalfi Coast is an excellent destination if you want a five-star experience with all the bells and whistles.

Plenty of mid-range and budget hotels are available, so you can find something to suit your needs and budget.

Although, it’s important to note that there are only a few hostels in the area. That said, if you wish to visit the Amalfi Coast on a budget, you might want to book in advance.

Accommodation In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a bit more rustic than Amalfi Coast, but that doesn’t mean you will be sacrificing any comfort. There are plenty of charming bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs, and small hotels to choose from.

You can also find great accommodation deals if you book in advance. You can learn more by reading our guide on where to stay in Cinque Terre.

The only thing to keep in mind here is that the villages of Cinque Terre are relatively small and you won’t find as many accommodation options in the area, which is why you should book in advance, especially if you travel during summertime.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast is a better option if you are looking for luxury hotels and resorts, while Cinque Terre is better if you want a more rustic and authentic experience in a small bed and breakfast.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Costs

If you want to respect your travel budget, another thing to consider when deciding between the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre is the costs.

Amalfi Coast Travel Costs

Amalfi Coast is a bit more expensive than Cinque Terre, but it is still relatively affordable. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities are similar to those in other parts of Italy.

For example, while you can find a 5-star hotel with a high price per night, you will be able to find cheaper options too. You could even find more affordable options by staying outside of Amalfi or Positano. Instead, opt for a smaller village. The same applies to food and activities.

For example, you could get a pizza in one of the local restaurants for less than 15 EUR, or you could go to a sea food restaurant and spend a lot more for a meal.

Here’s one more example: hiking is free, but if you want to go on a boat for an entire day trip, you could spend up to EUR 1000.

Cinque Terre Travel Costs

Cinque Terre is a bit cheaper than Amalfi Coast, which makes it a great option if you are on a budget. You can find excellent accommodation and food deals if you are willing to shop around.

You’ll find boat trips too, but there will be cheaper than the ones on the Amalfi Coast.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast is a bit more expensive than Cinque Terre, but it is still an excellent value for your money. If you’re on a budget, you might want to check out Cinque Terre instead. That said, you can travel to both destinations on a budget if you wish to.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Things To Do

The next thing to consider is the type of activities you wish to do during your Italy trip.

Things To Do On The Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. It’s the perfect destination if you are looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars and a few tourist attractions such as the Amalfi Cathedral.

That said, you can also explore the area by hiking. You’ll be able to admire some iconic views from higher viewpoints. 

You’ll find boat tours and fun day trips like Positano or Capri.

Things To Do In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a great place for hikers and nature lovers. The area is home to five beautiful villages, each with its own unique charm. There are also plenty of hiking trails and scenic lookout points.

You’ll be able to swim in the area too, but you won’t find as many beautiful beaches as on the Amalfi Coast. In fact, the largest beach is the one at Monterosso and is crowded during summertime. You can read our guide on the best beaches in Cinque Terre to learn more.

You can also explore the coastline by boat or by kayak.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast is a better option if you want to relax on the beach and enjoy the nightlife. Cinque Terre is better if you want to explore the great outdoors and experience some of the most beautiful villages in Italy. It really comes down to what you want to do during your trip to Italy. Overall, both destinations offer similar activities.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Boat Trip

Now, if you wish to experience a boat trip during your time in Italy, you may be wondering whether Cinque Terre or Amalfi Coast is the best spot for boating.

Amalfi Coast Boat Trip

Amalfi Coast is home to some of the most beautiful coastlines in Italy. A boat trip is a great way to see the Amalfi Coast and get a different perspective of the area.

If you book a private tour, boat trips on the Amalfi Coast can be expensive. That said, you can find cheaper options if you join a group. The cheapest alternative would be to take the ferry from Amalfi to Positano.

Cinque Terre Boat Trip

Cinque Terre is also home to a stunning coastline. A boat trip is a great way to see the Cinque Terre villages and get an entirely different perspective. You could also join a kayak tour if you wish to be more active during your holidays. 

Finally, you can also take the ferry if you’re looking for a cheaper option to see the coast from the sea.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are great boat trip destinations. It really comes down to which destination you are more interested in exploring.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Food

While in Italy, you’ll find plenty of delicious food. So, which area is better for food?

Food On Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is home to some of the best seafood in Italy. If you love seafood, you will be in heaven here. There are also plenty of great pizzerias and restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine too.

Food In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is also home to great seafood and traditional Italian dishes. The area is known for its focaccia bread, which is a must-try when you are here.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are both great destinations for foodies. You’ll find more restaurants on the Amalfi Coast than in Cinque Terre because the coast is bigger.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Transportation And Arrival

Regarding transportation, you should know that both destinations are pretty far from an airport. Let’s discuss your options to get there and to get around.

Amalfi Coast Transport

The closest airport to reach the Amalfi Coast is Naples. You can either take the bus or the train or rent a car to reach the Amalfi Coast. It’s important to know that parking can be an issue on the Amalfi Coast. That said, if you’re traveling by car, make sure to book a hotel that provides parking.

The Amalfi Coast is easy to get around by bus or ferry. Plenty of taxis and private drivers are also available if you don’t want to use public transportation.

Cinque Terre Transport

The closest airport to reach Cinque Terre is Genoa. You can read our guide to flying to Cinque Terre to explore your options. You can reach the area by train, by bus or by car. We also have a guide that explains how to get to Cinque Terre.

Once more, parking can be an issue in Cinque Terre, so booking a hotel that provides parking is essential.

Cinque Terre can be a bit more difficult to get around, as the villages are spread out. The best way to get around is by train, but you can also take a bus or ferry between the villages. Cinque Terre is known for its hiking trails, so many travelers visit the villages by foot.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast is the better option if you want an easy and convenient way to get around. Cinque Terre is a great option if you don’t mind using public transportation or if you want to explore the villages at your own pace by foot.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Crowds

Both destinations can get crowded during the summer. Let’s see what you can expect in terms of crowds and seasons.

Amalfi Coast Crowds

The Amalfi Coast can be pretty crowded during the peak tourist season. If you want a more relaxed experience, visiting during the off-season (spring, autumn, winter) is best.

If you wish to avoid the crowds, consider staying outside Amalfi or Positano, and pick a smaller village.

Cinque Terre Crowds

Cinque Terre is also popular with tourists but is not as crowded as the Amalfi Coast. The villages are small and intimate, so you can avoid the crowds if you wander off the beaten path.

If you wish to avoid the crowd, you can book a hotel in Manarola or Corniglia, which are the less busy ones.

VERDICT Both destinations can get crowded during the peak tourist season. Cinque Terre is less crowded than Amalfi Coast, but don’t get confused; it can get crowded too.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Traveling Solo

Now, let’s see the different travel styles and how both destinations can work for you.

Solo Travel In Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is a great place to travel solo. There are plenty of things to do and see, and you will never feel alone. You can easily join a hiking group, a boat tour, and stay in a hostel.

Solo Travel In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is also a great place to travel solo. The villages are small and intimate, so you can quickly meet new people. You can find hostels in some of the villages, but we recommend booking in advance.

If you don’t mind hiking alone, it should be fine. Alternatively, you can book a guided hiking trip and join a group.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are both great places to travel solo. You’ll find that Amalfi Coast is a bit more social, while Cinque Terre is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Traveling As A Couple

Both Amalfi and Cinque Terre are excellent destinations for couples. In fact, Amalfi is usually a hot spot for couples eloping in Italy.

Traveling As A Couple On The Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is a great place to travel as a couple. There are plenty of romantic things to do and see, and you will never get bored. You’ll likely see many couples getting married during your trip to Amalfi. Alternatively, it’s a hot spot for honeymoons and romantic stays.

Book a private boat trip to explore the coast if you wish to experience romantic things during your trip to Amalfi.

Traveling As A Couple In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is also a great place to travel as a couple, especially if you’re both active people. You’ll find rustic and romantic restaurants with views of the coast everywhere.

While it might not be as chic as the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find beautiful bed and breakfasts and small hotels with great views in the area.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are both great places to travel as a couple. You’ll find that Amalfi Coast is a bit more romantic, while Cinque Terre is a great place to be active and enjoy the scenery. In fact, many people go to the Amalfi coast to tie the knot or to enjoy their honeymoon.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Traveling With A Group

Let’s see what are the main differences between Amalfi and Cinque Terre when it comes to traveling with a group.

Group Travel On The Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast can be a great place to travel with a group. There are plenty of things to do and see, and you can easily find a place to stay that suits your needs. This is because many large hotels can accommodate groups.

Group Travel In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre can also be a great place to travel with a group as long as the group is relatively small. Most hotels are pretty small, so it could work if you’re just a few people.

That said, a group larger than 8-10 people might be more challenging. If that’s the case, you might want to consider staying just outside Cinque Terre at La Spezia.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are both great places to travel with a group, but Amalfi can accommodate bigger groups, while Cinque Terre might not be able to accommodate larger groups.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Traveling With Kids

Traveling with your family? Let’s see which destination is better if you’re traveling with kids.

Traveling With Kids On The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is not the best place to travel with kids if we consider that most activities involve boats, hikes, and exploring cute towns.

Although, if you travel with kids, you can make the most of the beaches. There are not a lot of activities designed for kids on the Amalfi Coast – so keep that in mind.

Traveling With Kids In Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is also not the best place to travel with kids. The villages are small, so there are not many activities specifically for children.

Although, if you stay in Monterosso, you’ll find a large beach which could suit you and your kids.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are both great places to travel, but they are not the best places to travel with kids if you wish them to have fun activities to do during your holidays.

If you wish to travel with your kids to Italy, we suggest you consider other destinations such as Lake Garda, Sardinia, or Sicily.

Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre: Weather

Now, let’s see the main differences between Cinque Terre and Amalfi regarding the weather.

Amalfi Coast Weather

Amalfi Coast has a Mediterranean climate, so the weather is mild throughout the year. Obviously, it’s going to be hot during summer, so make sure to bring your swimsuit and sunscreen along.

Cinque Terre Weather

Cinque Terre also has a Mediterranean climate, but the weather can be a bit cooler due to its location in the Northern part of Italy. It can get quite hot during summer, and thankfully some hiking trails are in the shade, so you don’t need to be under the sun the whole time.

VERDICT Amalfi Coast is a great place to visit if you are looking for mild weather year-round. However, Cinque Terre may be a better option if you are looking for cooler temperatures. That said, both are going to be hot during summertime.

Final Thoughts On Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast

Overall, both Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are great places to visit. They offer a mix of history, culture, food, and scenery that is sure to please everyone.

However, we suggest you consider your travel needs and preferences before deciding which one is right for you.

Cinque Terre may be the better option if you’re looking for a place to hike, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Amalfi Coast may be the better choice if you’re looking for a place with more things to do and see – and is definitely the better option if you’re not into hiking.

Whichever you choose, we know you’ll have a great time!

Personally, I preferred Cinque Terre over the Amalfi Coast because it was less busy, but also because it was more fun. I love hiking, and the views in Cinque Terre were very unique.

While the Amalfi Coast might be more beautiful, it was a nightmare to drive in the area. If I had to go again, I’d instead go during spring or autumn and do it via public transportation for a better experience.

Traveling to Italy soon? Read one of the following guides:

• One day in Pompeii
• 4 days on the Amalfi Coast
• 3 days in Cinque Terre