Weighing whether to visit Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast can be difficult if you’re deciding where exactly to visit.
While there are many destinations in Italy worth making the trip to experience warm sun, dreamy blue seas, and delicious food, these are the two that tend to reign supreme.
In general, choose Cinque Terre if you’re an outdoor lover looking for a more budget-friendly coastal destination. On the other hand, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect choice for history buffs seeking stunning natural scenery and those willing to splash the cash.
Table of Contents
Cinque Terre
Located in the region of Liguria in Northern Italy, Cinque Terre, or “the 5 Lands” is a picturesque coastal region making up part of the Italian Riviera.
The Cinque Terre villages comprise five colorful fishing towns: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Perched upon the cliffs of the Italian coast, Cinque Terre offers a stunning and unique landscape with each town offering its distinct features.
Accessibility
When planning any trip, a largely important factor is the accessibility of the location. Cinque Terre is a well-accessible location and is accessible by various means of transportation.
The most common is train transport, with the “Cinque Terre Express”, a train line that runs along the coast, connecting the five towns.
This makes it incredibly easy to reach and get around from town to town in Cinque Terre compared to the Amalfi Coast where bus transportation around most of the region is the only means of public transportation.
When it comes to reaching Cinque Terre, you can easily reach the region by taking a train from major Italian cities such as Milan, Florence, Pisa, or Genoa. You can view schedules here.
Your first connection point to Cinque Terre will either be in the port cities of La Spezia or Levanto and from there, you just need to get off at the town you wish to visit. The train journey offers beautiful coastal views, and the frequency of trains makes it a convenient option.
Another option to reach Cinque Terre is by ferry. While ferry routes to the region only run seasonally in the summer months, it’s a great way to see the stunning Italian Riviera coast and Cinque Terre seaside rather than landside.
The main ferry departure ports to Cinque Terre include La Spezia, Portovenere, Lerici, and Levanto, and make stops at each town.
Since getting around each town as well as to/from the 5 towns is so convenient by train, with train stations being in the center of the towns and the towns’ small size, renting a car isn’t necessary for your trip.
With the efficient public transportation and walkability of the towns, renting a car may even end up being a bit more chaotic and expensive than taking advantage of the region’s wonderful transport system.
Affordability
While staying directly in both coastal regions is costly for visitors, Cinque Terre comes out on the lower end in comparison to the more “luxurious” region of the Amalfi Coast.
Cinque Terre is still feasible to visit if you’re visiting on a fair budget and are looking to enjoy a wonderful Italian coastal getaway, while Amalfi Coast tends to attract wealthier clientele due to the region’s glamorous reputation.
Costs in just about every category, such as accommodation, activities, and restaurants come out cheaper in Cinque Terre except for transportation, making it the more cost-efficient option between the two when you’re trying to decide which to visit.
Things to do in Cinque Terre
The principal thing to do while in Cinque Terre is to visit each of the 5 towns. Wandering through the narrow streets while watching local life go by is the best way to understand the local cultures while admiring the colorful houses and soaking in the charming atmosphere of each town.
In the first and the largest of the five towns, Monterosso, you can relax on the golden sands of its beaches or explore the medieval old town. In Corniglia, perched high above the sea, savor panoramic views and immerse yourself in its quiet charm.
Manarola is known for its iconic views, where you can capture postcard-worthy photos from the terraced rooftops of the town. In Riomaggiore, the southernmost town, you can take in the town’s vibrant atmosphere and beautiful seaside promenade.
Furthermore, Cinque Terre is a hiker’s paradise and the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking to get off the beaten path from Italy’s busy cities and enjoy the abundant nature the country offers.
Cinque Terre is known for its scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the rugged coast and surrounding areas. The most famous trail is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which stretches approximately 12 kilometers and connects all five towns.
You can hike a portion of the trail, or if you’re a seasoned hiker, hiking the entire length of the trail is worth the views and experience. There are also other trails, such as the Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane) between Riomaggiore and Manarola.
For those visiting the region hoping to catch some sun while dipping into the blue Mediterranean seas, you’ll find that Cinque Terre has supreme beach options for your visit.
Both Spiaggia Il Gigante and Fegina Beach in the town of Monterosso are known to be the best beaches in Cinque Terre, so if you’re keen to enjoy time by the water, Monterosso is a must-visit. If you want to be more active, you can go on a kayaking tour or a boat tour.
Liguria is a rich gastronomic region, so trying local foods is a necessity. From fresh seafood to the Ligurian pesto sauce and the region’s renowned wines, Cinque Terre is the perfect destination for foodies searching for a fresh taste of Italy.
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
L’Approdo Dell’Ammiraglio – This guesthouse in La Spezia is perfect for those looking for a mid-range place to stay when exploring Cinque Terre. They have a number of rooms to choose from and a great location.
La Serra Sul Mare – Luxury travellers looking for a plush place to stay in Cinque Terre are sure to love this hotel in Monterosso. Located within a stone’s throw from the beach, they have a number of wonderful rooms to choose from and there is also a free shuttle service available.
Miramare Apartments&Suites – If you’d a self-catering option while visiting Cinque Terre, then this aparthotel in La Spezia is a great choice. They have a number of different flats and suites to choose reform and it makes for a great base for exploring the villages.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cinque Terre hotels!
Amalfi Coast
Easily one of Italy’s most well-known gems for worldwide visitors, the Amalfi Coast is the epitome of a dreamy and classic Italian getaway, seeing over 5 million visitors annually.
Located in the region of Campania in Southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast is known for its dramatic cliffs and scenery, enchanting towns, turquoise waters, and delicious cuisine.
Accessibility
In comparison to Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast lacks points in accessibility due to the lack of train transportation connecting the region. Your journey will likely begin in Naples or Sorrento and from there, you have a few options for modes of transportation.
A bus is the most common and affordable means of transport to reach any of the towns in the Amalfi Coast, with the local SITA bus system connecting the towns in the Amalfi Coast to Naples and Sorrento through various lines and frequent bus routes.
While bus transportation through the Amalfi isn’t for the fainthearted, with winding hairpin roads and fast drivers, the views are extraordinary.
Another option to reach the Amalfi Coast is to arrive by ferry. Ferries and hydrofoils connect the Amalfi Coast towns and nearby islands, including Capri and Ischia. You can view schedules here.
Getting to and around the Amalfi Coast by ferry offers a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the coastline for a lower cost than private boat tours if you’re keen to take in the views from the exterior.
To get around the towns along the Amalfi Coast, your options are either the SITA bus system or renting a car during your stay. Unfortunately, the SITA buses become extremely overcrowded during peak months, and at times can be difficult to even find a spot on your necessary bus route.
If you’re comfortable driving through the winding and busy Amalfi Coast roads, I highly recommend renting a car to get around and have the most freedom possible during your visit. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices across companies.
When it comes to getting around the individual towns of the Amalfi Coast like Amalfi or Positano are known to have many steps leading to and from various points, being steep and narrow with uneven roads, presenting challenges for those with mobility difficulties.
If you’re searching for more compact areas that are easier to get around during your trip to Italy and trying to decide between the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, I suggest choosing Cinque Terre.
Affordability
The Amalfi Coast is certainly the more expensive option between the two, largely due to its popularity and reputation for being a destination catering to those seeking luxury and extravagance.
If you’re set on visiting but are traveling on a moderate budget, I suggest staying in the neighboring town of Sorrento. Accommodation costs are high, but staying in Sorrento gives you the advantage of being close to the Amalfi Coast but not paying the high prices of accommodation.
Sorrento is a delightful town in its own right, and although not technically part of the Amalfi Coast, is worth the visit or stay if you’re looking to save money.
We’ve covered the costs of accommodation and transportation. But what about other travel costs such as activities and restaurants?
Unfortunately, the Amalfi Coast still comes out higher in these other costs as well. Although many of the local activities and popular restaurants in the region come at a high price, it is possible to find free/low-cost activities in the region and affordable food if you plan.
Things to do on Amalfi Coast
Exploring the enchanting Towns of the Amalfi Coast is one of the key things to do while in the region. Immerse yourself in the picturesque towns that dot the coastline, wander through the narrow streets of Amalfi and admire the grandeur of its medieval cathedral.
Lose yourself in the famous and charming town of Positano, with its colorful buildings stacked upon the cliffside. For an off-the-beaten-path experience on the Amalfi Coast, don’t forget to visit Ravello, perched high above the coast, known for its breathtaking views, laid-back ambiance, and fewer tourist numbers.
The Amalfi Coast is also located close to the famous fallen town of Pompeii and the famous volcano Mount Vesuvius, giving the perfect opportunity for day trips for those staying in the Amalfi Coast region.
In addition, the Amalfi Coast has a rich history, with records dating back to ancient times, making it an ideal destination if you’re keen to explore further the ancient and modern history of the region.
The island of Capri is one of the most visited destinations for those visiting the region. Capri is a mesmerizing island known for its natural beauty, glamorous atmosphere, and rich history, making it the perfect addition to any trip to the Amalfi Coast.
The island’s stunning landscapes are highlighted by dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and hidden caves. One of the most famous attractions is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave where sunlight creates a mesmerizing blue glow. You’ll need to book a tour or private boat to reach the Blue Grotto.
Unsurprisingly, the Amalfi Coast is another region of Italy known for its renowned cuisine. The region is known for its cuisine, which showcases fresh and locally sourced ingredients such as fresh seafood, vegetables, and the famous Amalfi Coast lemons, known for their vibrant yellow color and intense fragrance.
Trying local specialities is the perfect way to dig into the Amalfi culture and even taking a cooking class is the ideal way to learn how to create familiar dishes of such a well-loved cuisine.
Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
O’Lattariello – Situated in the town of Amalfi, this cosy little bed and breakfast is perfect for those sticking to a mid-range budget on the Amalfi Cost. They offer a range of rooms, an excellent location and a delightful breakfast each morning.
Albergo Miramare – This luxury hotel is perfect for those looking to splash the cast on the Amalfi Coast. Located in the town of Positano, this boutique hotel has great sea views and plenty of gorgeous rooms to choose from.
Corso Italia Suites – Located in Sorrento, these flats are perfect for those looking for a self-catering base for exploring the Amalfi Coast. They are pet-friendly and have studios, one- and two-bedroom options to choose from.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Amalfi Coast hotels!
Cinque Terre vs the Amalfi Coast: Which is Better to Visit
While both Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast offer exquisite outdoor opportunities, if you’re someone searching for wide opportunities to hike vast areas of the region, I suggest heading to Cinque Terre over the Amalfi Coast.
Many of the hikes in the region are world-famous, offering an unforgettable experience for nature seekers. In addition, the Amalfi Coast lacks in the beach department with small beaches and high crowds, whereas Cinque Terre has a large number of beaches that are much bigger in size catering to larger numbers of people.
Cost is a huge deciding factor for those searching for a budget-friendly trip and if this is an important aspect for you, I also recommend making your way to Cinque Terre instead of the Amalfi Coast.
Both boast outstanding scenery and surroundings, but the Amalfi Coast takes the lead for scenery thanks to dramatic cliffs, striking grottos, and breathtaking coastal vistas with local life peeking out from just about every corner.
So, if you’re searching for a higher “wow factor” for scenery on your trip, I’d head to the Amalfi Coast vs Cinque Terre.
When it comes to accessibility, Cinque Terre is the ideal spot to head to. From transportation to and around the region as well as accessibility around the towns of the region, Cinque Terre is more convenient to get around.
If you struggle with mobility or are searching for somewhere more walkable without intense and steep roads and paths, the Amalfi Coast may be difficult.
Finally, due to the rich history of the Amalfi Coast and close proximity to nearby sites such as Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, the Amalfi Coast is best for those searching to dive into the history and culture of the region.
Whether you choose to visit the Amalfi Coast or head to the villages of Cinque Terre, you’re sure to fall in love with either of these iconic Italian coastal regions.
Are you choosing between Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!
