Cinque TerrevsLake Como
Can't decide between Cinque Terre and Lake Como? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages clinging to the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning coastal hikes, vibrant pastel houses, fresh seafood, and the famous local wine. Car-free villages connected by trains and hiking trails create an unforgettable Mediterranean escape.
Known for
Lake Como
Lake Como is Italy's most glamorous lake, where snow-capped Alps meet Mediterranean gardens and elegant villas. This Y-shaped lake has attracted aristocrats and celebrities for centuries, offering charming villages like Bellagio, Villa Balbianello, and spectacular mountain scenery.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Cinque Terre offers Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro), Monterosso Beach, Vernazza Harbor
Lake Como offers Bellagio, Villa Balbianello, Villa Carlotta
Food & Dining
Cinque Terre is famous for its local dining scene
Lake Como is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cinque Terre offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Lake Como offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to October
April to October
Weather
Summer: 28°C, Winter: 10°C
Summer: 27°C, Winter: 6°C
Top Attractions in Cinque Terre
- 1Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro)
- 2Monterosso Beach
- 3Vernazza Harbor
- 4Manarola Sunset Views
- 5Riomaggiore
- 6Local Pesto & Seafood
Top Attractions in Lake Como
- 1Bellagio
- 2Villa Balbianello
- 3Villa Carlotta
- 4Varenna
- 5Ferry Hopping
- 6Funicular to Brunate
Cinque Terre is Popular With
Lake Como is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Cinque Terre
- 1
San Bernardino Church & Vineyard Walk (Manarola)
A quiet, elevated church with a terrace, accessed by a beautiful path winding through the upper vineyards of Manarola.
- 2
Guvano Beach
A secluded, clothing-optional beach located in a hidden cove between Corniglia and Vernazha, accessible only via an old railway tunnel or by boat.
Hidden Gems in Lake Como
- 1
Isola Comacina
Lake Como's only island, located near Ossuccio, steeped in legend and history with ancient ruins and a single restaurant.
- 2
Orrido di Bellano
A dramatic, deep natural gorge carved by the Pioverna river, with walkways and bridges allowing you to traverse the roaring waterfalls and caverns.
Neighborhoods to Explore
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Top Areas in Cinque Terre
Riomaggiore
The southernmost and often first-impression village, Riomaggiore is dramatic and vibrant.
Manarola
Arguably the most photographed village, Manarola is postcard-perfect.
Top Areas in Lake Como
Bellagio
The undisputed 'Pearl of the Lake,' Bellagio sits at the tip of the peninsula dividing the lake's southern branches.
Varenna
A colorful, authentic fishing village on the eastern shore, Varenna feels more lived-in and less polished than Bellagio.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Cinque Terre
Budget in Lake Como
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cinque Terre
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Lake Como
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Cinque Terre
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Find cheap transport to Lake Como
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Our Verdict
Both Cinque Terre and Lake Como are incredible destinations. Cinque Terre excels in colorful villages and coastal hiking, while Lake Como stands out for celebrity villas and Bellagio.
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