10 days in Italy Rome or Cinque Terre?

Both are great places to visit. For this particular trip, though, I'd lean to Rome, because it will be easier as a departure city if you're already there, (rather than getting from CT back to Florence, which is also not as good an airport for getting back to the USA, if that's where you're heading), plus you can get there in under 90 minutes from Florence. On a ten-day trip, these kinds of time savers are worth taking advantage of.

These are very different types of destinations. Many would scoff at the idea that you aren't automatically choosing Rome, with its depth of history and culture. (For what it's worth, even though I think Rome is essential at least once, I've only been there once - but have been to the Cinque Terre three times. It's crowded and touristy now but I love it.)

Will you hike? To me, that's the probably the primary attraction of the Cinque Terre. If you aren't going to hike, but you are still intrigued by the area, consider elsewhere in the riviera - lots of beautiful towns there to spend three days. The Cinque Terre towns are a bit overpriced because they are so popular.

How about flying out of Genoa or Pisa instead of Florence? Those would be easier to reach than Florence from the Cinque Terre.

Thank you for your replies. I know, it does sound crazy. That is why I posted this to hear feedback to determine whether we would be making a mistake. Part of our reasoning is that we plan to return to Italy in the next few years with our kids and do Rome and Southern Italy. But still, can you go to Italy and not do Rome? Also

Is CT worth the hype? We do like to hike.

We spent 5 nights in the Cinque Terre last October, late in the month. That was after 4 nights in Rome. We loved both for different reasons, but my opinion is that the CT is worth the hype. We stayed in Corniglia. We loved exploring the five villages, plus Porto Venere and the walking/biking trail through the old train tunnels from Levanto to Bonassola to Framura. There were times where it was crowded, but mostly during the main daylight hours in the hearts of each village with the day trippers. Staying in the cities allows for access during quieter times easily enough.

I would say if you are looking to have specific sites to visit (historical or artistic), head to Roma. If you want a less structured, relaxing place to explore, go for Cinque Terre. Good news is that you are in a win-win situation.

I think you will find it worth the hype if you like to hike and go in October, when it's a little less crowded. I wouldn't hesitate to visit vs. Rome if you plan to visit Rome on a future trip.

I personally think the CT is not worth the hype. Read what non-RS guidebooks have to say about it.

If you have never been to Rome, you might regret skipping the Forum, Colosseum, Vatican, etc.

In 2014, we used this company for a wine tour out of Florence and had a great time. The included lunch was one of the best meals we had on our trip.

http://www.tuscantrails.com/chianti.html

traylaparks, do you think guidebooks are somehow more insightful about "hype" than the posters here who have been there recently?

Not everyone loves the CT. The OP will just have to weigh opinions pro and con. I don't see how consulting any guidebook is more helpful than personal anecdotes for that.

traylaparks, do you think guidebooks are somehow more insightful about "hype" than the posters here who have been there recently?

I always think it's useful to get other perspectives, especially since the OP has said they are undecided. When planning a trip, I utilize multiple sources and guidebooks. I was just preaching what I practice.

I didn't say that guidebooks are more insightful about "hype" than the posters on this forum, and I do not feel obligated to answer a question about a position that I didn't take.

If you haven't been to Rome yet, Rome is your answer. I love Italy and have been there several times, visiting nearly all the places north of Naples to be seen. Cinque Terre is good to visit as well, but no city in Italy can compare to Rome.

I would spend 4 days in Rome and 4 in Florence. Siena is worth a day trip.

Yes, the CT is definitely worth the hype. But my one suggestion is to take a day from Florence and add it to Venice. Venice is a truly unique place and only two days really, in my opinion, short changes it.