A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Lisbon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aegina or Lisbon?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aegina or Lisbon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a vibrant, fun, and active island. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Aegina and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Aegina or Lisbon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Aegina and Lisbon are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aegina attracts visitors for its small town charm. Aegina is famous for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Aegina different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lisbon and Aegina. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Lisbon?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Many visitors head to Aegina specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.


Is the Food Better in Aegina or Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

The nightlife in Aegina has something for everybody. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Music?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Aegina is not a live music destination.

In Lisbon you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Aegina is not a live music destination.


Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Lisbon

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Aegina and Lisbon are nice choices.

Aegina is a good option for a beach vacation. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Lisbon?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Lisbon is a world class destination for shoppers. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aegina. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.


Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Families?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Aegina offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is a great destination for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.


Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Students?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is a great destination for students. However, Aegina is not popular with students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Aegina is not popular with students.

Is Aegina or Lisbon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

While Aegina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

Is Aegina or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Aegina
Lisbon

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Aegina is somewhat walkable. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Lisbon?

Both Aegina and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Aegina. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Aegina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lisbon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than Aegina. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lisbon that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Aegina if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lisbon.


  • How many days in Aegina or Lisbon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aegina 1-2 
    Lisbon 3-7

One day in Aegina or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aegina. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Aegina or Lisbon?

Aegina is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Aegina or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aegina. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Aegina or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun destination of Aegina. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Lisbon or Aegina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €92, while the average daily cost in Lisbon is €131. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aegina and Lisbon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Lisbon 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Lisbon 116
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Lisbon

Looking for a hotel in Aegina or Lisbon? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aegina


Hotels in Lisbon


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aegina Hotel Prices and Lisbon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Lisbon 24

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Lisbon

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Lisbon:


  • Taxi Ride
    6.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisbon

Also for Lisbon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Private Transfer to Cascais | Sintra | Estoril: $29
  • Airport Private Transfer to Lisbon: $23
  • Airport Transfer - Lisbon: $60
  • Airport Transfer: Lisbon Airport LIS to Lisbon in Luxury Van: $95
  • Airport Transfer: Lisbon to Lisbon Airport LIS in Business Car: $66
  • Airport Transfer: Lisbon to Lisbon Airport LIS in Luxury Van: $95
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Lisbon airport LIS to Lisbon City by Luxury Van: $48
  • Arrival Transfer: Lisbon Airport LIS to Lisbon in Business Car: $65
  • Cascais transfer: Private Transfer to/from Cascais or Lisbon: $59
  • Costa da Caparica Private Transfer from / to Lisbon: $33
  • Departure Private Transfer from Lisbon City to Lisbon airport LIS by Luxury Van: $48
  • Exclusive Luxury Transfers to/from Lisbon Airport: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Aegina or Lisbon?

Prices for flights to both Lisbon and Aegina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aegina 34
    Lisbon 42

Typical Food Prices in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Soirée Rivage - Sunset cruise with dinner and Party: $25
  • Hard Rock Cafe Lisbon with Set Lunch or Dinner : $28
  • Tapas Food Tour: $42
  • Fado Show and Portuguese Dinner: $48
  • Lisbon Food Tour: $53
  • Alfama Tour and Live Fado with Traditional Dinner: $53
  • 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class: $53
  • Legendary Beer Dinner: $53
  • No Diet Club - Unique food tour in Lisbon with many Tastings: $62
  • Original Morning Food Tour: $63
  • Lisbon Tipsy Food Tour with Drinks and Food inlcuded: $70
  • Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Lisbon 24

Tours and Activities in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • See Lisbon Through the Eyes of a Local - Free Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Lisbon Walking Tour - The Perfect Introduction to the City: $1.12
  • Belém Unveiled: A Free Tour Through the Age of Discoveries: $1.28
  • Alfama Walking Tour Lisbon: $3.26
  • Wonders of Lisbon Walking Tour: $3.93
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour in Lisbon: $4.36
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour in the Marvels of Lisbon : $4.80
  • Tower of Saint George’s Castle Church Ticket & Drink: $5.35
  • Lisbon Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $5.35
  • Lisbon Cathedral Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • Lisbon Walking Tour: $5.35
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour From Príncipe Real to Downtown Lisbon: $5.53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aegina 8.57
    Lisbon 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Lisbon

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lisbon:

  • Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks and VIP Club Entry: $18
  • 1-Hour Portuguese Wine Tasting Session: $20
  • Lisbon Pub Crawl: $21
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar and VIP Club Entry: $21
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar, Shots, & VIP Club Entry: $21
  • Lisbon Wild Pub Crawl : $22
  • Private Bar Crawl in Lisbon: $22
  • Beer Tasting in a Classic Brewery: $27
  • Pub Crawl Lisbon: $27
  • Wine Tasting at Quinta das Murgas: $38
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl with a Local Guide: $42
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl in Lisbon with Local Guide: $43


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Aegina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aegina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aegina and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Aegina.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aegina Expensive? and Is Lisbon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aegina or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Lisbon, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Aegina or Lisbon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aegina or Lisbon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Lisbon. The summer months attract visitors to Aegina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

Aegina is a little warmer than Lisbon in the summer. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the summer, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets more rain in July than Lisbon. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Lisbon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Lisbon in the Autumn?

Both Lisbon and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Aegina is around the same temperature as Lisbon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aegina in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Lisbon averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon during autumn. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aegina usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Lisbon 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Lisbon in the Winter?

Both Lisbon and Aegina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aegina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Aegina is generally cooler than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 10°C (51°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Aegina usually gets less rain in January than Lisbon. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Lisbon 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Lisbon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Lisbon. Many visitors come to Aegina in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Aegina is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the spring. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon during spring. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aegina usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Lisbon 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Aegina

Aegina Lisbon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)