Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast: Which Italian Gem is Right for You?

When it comes to breathtaking coastal views and charming seaside towns, Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast is a tough choice for any traveler. Both are incredible destinations, but if you’ve never been to either, deciding which one to visit can be overwhelming!

That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide comparing Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast to help you choose which coastal paradise is perfect for your next Italian adventure. We love them both, but there are some key differences worth considering. If you’re short on time Walks of Italy offers a Pompeii Tour from Rome with Amalfi Coast Drive.

Getting to Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast

One of the most important considerations when deciding between Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast is how easy they are to access, depending on your starting location, whether that’s Rome, Naples or elsewhere in Italy.

The Cinque Terre’s small villages, like the town of Manarola here, are easily reached from Florence or Milan

How to get to Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre, located in the northern region of Liguria, is relatively easy to reach if you’re starting from major northern cities like Florence or Milan. If you’re flying into Italy through one of these cities, reaching Cinque Terre is both quick and convenient:

• From Florence: It’s about a 2-hour trip by car or train. Driving offers scenic views of the Tuscan countryside, but the train is a hassle-free option with no worries about parking.
• From Milan: The journey takes a little under 3 hours by car or about 3.5 hours by train. Milan’s connection to the Ligurian coast makes it an ideal jumping-off point for exploring Cinque Terre.

When you arrive, Cinque Terre’s five villages—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare—are connected by train, making it easy to hop from one picturesque town to the next without needing a car.

How to get to the Amalfi Coast:

On the other hand, the Amalfi Coast, located in southern Italy’s Campania region, is best accessed from Rome or Naples:

• From Naples: It’s just an hour on the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, or you can take a bus or ferry from Naples directly to other coastal towns like Positano and Amalfi.
• From Rome: You have two options: Take a fast train to Naples (just over an hour) and then transfer to local transport, or head straight to Salerno, located at the other end of the Amalfi Coast, with a direct train ride of about 2 hours.

The Amalfi Coast has more extensive travel options, including buses, ferries, and rental cars. However, the winding coastal roads can be challenging for some drivers, especially in the crowded summer months.

For warmer weather, the Amalfi coast

When comparing Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast, weather plays a significant role in choosing the best time to visit. Due to its southern location, the Amalfi Coast tends to have warmer and drier weather, particularly in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). If you’re visiting in these months and want to avoid rain, the Amalfi Coast is likely the better option. The further south you go in Italy, the warmer and more stable the weather tends to be.

On the other hand, Cinque Terre, located further north, can experience cooler temperatures and more unpredictable weather, especially during the off-season. For more info check out or blog on traveling the Cinque Terre in the off-season.

If you’re visiting in the peak summer months, Cinque Terre may offer a slightly cooler respite compared to the sometimes stifling heat of the Amalfi Coast. But either way, both regions boast Mediterranean climates with plenty of sunshine, so it really depends on your tolerance for heat and your preference for travel dates.

Vineyards on the Amalfi coast

Hiking: Cinque Terre for enthusiasts, Amalfi for more variety

For hiking lovers, the Cinque Terre is often the first destination that comes to mind. The region is famous for its breathtaking hiking trails that connect the five picturesque villages, offering stunning views of both the coast and the rolling hills. Among these trails, the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) is the most popular, especially the portion that connects Monterosso to Vernazza, where the panoramic view of Vernazza from above is simply unforgettable.

However, it’s important to remember a couple of caveats:

• The Cinque Terre trails can get very crowded, particularly in the high season (May through September). If you’re looking for a peaceful, solitary hike, you may be disappointed by the number of tourists.
• Some trails are narrow with steep drops, which can be daunting for travelers who are uncomfortable with heights or not steady on their feet. Read our blog on how to hike in the Cinque Terre.

On the flip side, while the Amalfi Coast isn’t as well-known for hiking as Cinque Terre, it does offer some excellent trails, such as the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), which winds from the hilltop town of Agerola down to Positano. This trail offers sweeping vistas of the coastline and the surrounding mountains, and it’s often less crowded than Cinque Terre’s famous paths.

For travelers who enjoy a mix of hiking and cultural exploration, the Amalfi Coast may offer more variety. After a hike, you can easily take a boat ride to Capri, visit Pompeii, or explore one of the Amalfi Coast’s historic towns, giving you more options for day trips and activities.

Want to hike in the Cinque Terre? If you’re walking from Vernazza to Corniglia, this is what to expect!

Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast sightseeing: What are the options?

When it comes to sightseeing, the Amalfi Coast is undoubtedly richer in terms of cultural and historical sites. The coastline is dotted with beautiful towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each offering its own unique blend of history, architecture, and Italian charm. Some highlights include:

• The gardens and villas of Ravello, where the lush greenery is complemented by stunning views of the sea.
• Amalfi Town’s historic cathedral, a fine example of medieval Italian architecture.
• Salerno offers a number of attractions, with its mix of medieval and modern attractions, including its imposing castle and lively waterfront promenade.
• A variety of small but fascinating museums, like the paper museum in Amalfi or the Roman villa museum in Minori.

The Amalfi Coast is also perfectly positioned for day trips to some of Italy’s most famous attractions. From here, you can easily visit Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri, and even Naples, providing endless opportunities for exploration.

While Cinque Terre offers fewer cultural sights, it makes up for it with its natural beauty. The focus here is more on soaking in the serene landscapes, whether that’s lounging on a beach, wandering through the terraced vineyards, or hiking along the rugged coastline. The region’s UNESCO World Heritage status speaks to its unique beauty and importance.

Medieval castle in Salerno, Italy

Accomodation in Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast

In terms of accommodations, the Amalfi Coast is well-known for its luxurious hotels, boutique resorts, and high-end restaurants, particularly in towns like Positano and Ravello. The region’s history as a posh resort area means that you’ll find 5-star hotels with stunning views, Michelin-starred dining, and all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury destination.

However, if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, the Cinque Terre may be a better fit. While still popular with tourists, the accommodations here are generally more laid-back and affordable, with plenty of charming, family-run B&Bs that offer a more intimate and personal experience.

The choice between Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast comes down to the type of travel experience you’re looking for. If you want luxury and pampering, the Amalfi Coast is your best bet. If you prefer a more casual, backpacker-friendly vibe, Cinque Terre might be more up your alley.

Head to the Amalfi Coast for stunning drives

For those who love road trips, the Amalfi Coast offers one of the most famous drives in the world. The winding coastal road is known for its dramatic curves, steep cliffs, and jaw-dropping views. It’s the kind of drive that makes for postcard-perfect photos around every corner, but it’s also not for the faint of heart. The narrow, winding roads can be nerve-wracking, especially for inexperienced drivers.

The famous Amalfi coast road

While Cinque Terre doesn’t have an equivalent road for driving, it’s easily accessible by train, and the local train system is efficient and inexpensive. This makes it easy to hop between the five villages without the need for a car, which can be a big plus for travelers who prefer not to drive.

Authentic small-town Life: Look beyond both

If you’re hoping to experience authentic, off-the-beaten-path Italian fishing villages, neither the Cinque Terre nor the Amalfi Coast offers quite the same experience as they once did. Both regions have grown into major tourist destinations, and their economies are now largely driven by tourism. You’ll still find beautiful scenery, charming streets, and friendly locals, but the influx of visitors—especially in the high season—means you’re unlikely to be the only English speaker in town.

For a more authentic small-town experience, consider exploring regions like Puglia, Le Marche, or Sicily, where fishing villages retain more of their traditional charm and are less impacted by mass tourism.

Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast: The final verdict

When it comes down to choosing between Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast, it ultimately depends on what kind of traveler you are:

• Cinque Terre is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and those looking for a more laid-back and budget-friendly Italian escape. Its small towns and stunning coastal views offer a serene backdrop for hiking and relaxation.
• Amalfi Coast, with its rich cultural heritage, luxury accommodations, and close proximity to famous landmarks like Pompeii and Capri, is ideal for travelers who want to mix relaxation with sightseeing and indulge in a bit of luxury.

No matter which coast you choose, both regions offer unforgettable experiences, stunning views, and the chance to explore Italy’s most iconic coastal towns.