A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Albuquerque vs. Portland for Food, Families, Nightlife, and Couples

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Should you visit Albuquerque or Portland?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Albuquerque and Portland. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a desert, historic, and traditional town. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Albuquerque and Portland: Pros and Cons

Albuquerque
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Portland
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Cons
  • Less popular for food


How is Albuquerque different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Albuquerque or Portland Better for Food?

Albuquerque
Portland

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Albuquerque a bit more than Portland.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Albuquerque. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes.


Is Albuquerque or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Albuquerque
Portland

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find comparable options between Albuquerque and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Albuquerque has a few options to choose from. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Albuquerque or Portland Better for Shopping?

Albuquerque
Portland

If you're looking to go shopping, Albuquerque and Portland both offer plenty of spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Albuquerque. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops.

Is Albuquerque or Portland Better for Families?

Albuquerque
Portland

Both Albuquerque and Portland are family-friendly destinations.

Albuquerque is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly activities in town include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Albuquerque or Portland Better for Couples?

Albuquerque
Portland

Albuquerque and Portland both fun destinations for a couple.

Albuquerque is a nice destination for couples. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.


Is Albuquerque or Portland Better for Public Transit?

Albuquerque
Portland

Albuquerque and Portland both offer public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Albuquerque or Portland a more walkable city?

Albuquerque
Portland

Albuquerque and Portland are similar when it comes to walkability.

Albuquerque is somewhat walkable. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

Portland is a very walkable town. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Albuquerque?

How long in Albuquerque or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Albuquerque and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Albuquerque than Portland.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Albuquerque is 2-4 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Portland is 2-3 days.


  • How many days in Albuquerque or Portland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Albuquerque 2-4 
    Portland 2-3

One day in Albuquerque or Portland?

The town of Albuquerque offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the tree-lined city of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Albuquerque or Portland?

Albuquerque is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albuquerque, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the progressive destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Albuquerque or Portland?

Albuquerque is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The quirky city of Portland offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Albuquerque or Portland?

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Portland. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Which city is cheaper, Portland or Albuquerque?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Albuquerque is $108, while the average daily cost in Portland is $143. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Albuquerque and Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Albuquerque $55
    Portland $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Albuquerque $110
    Portland $152
Compare Hotels in Albuquerque and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Albuquerque or Portland? 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 Albuquerque


Hotels in Portland


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: Albuquerque Hotel Prices and Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Albuquerque $29
    Portland $23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Albuquerque

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

  • Private Transfer: Albuquerque to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ): $622
  • Private Transfer: Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) to Albuquerque: $622
  • Private Departure Transfer To Albuquerque Airport ABQ: $49
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Albuquerque Airport (ABQ): $81
  • Albuquerque to Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Albuquerque International Airport One Way Transfer: $48
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $177
  • Albuquerque Airport (ABQ) to Albuquerque - Arrival Private Transfer: $88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

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

  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $281
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $281
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $281
  • PDX - Portland Airport Transfer - Chauffeured Round Trip in a Luxury Sedan/SUV: $267
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $204
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $141
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $141
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $141
  • PDX - Portland One Way Airport Transfer in a Chauffeured Sedan/SUV: $133
  • Transfer from Portland International Airport to Portland: $109
  • Portland downtown to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $102
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Arrival Private Transfer: $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Albuquerque or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland and Albuquerque 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
    Albuquerque $33
    Portland $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Albuquerque

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Albuquerque: $71

Typical Food prices in Portland

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


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

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

  • Arts District Food Tour: $84
  • Portland's Art District Food Tour: $84
  • Walking Food Tour in Downtown Portland with Brunch: $86
  • Downtown Deluxe Food Tour: $89
  • Tastes of Downtown Portland Walking Food Tour: $89
  • 2.5-Hour Dinner Cruise Through Downtown Portland: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Albuquerque $20
    Portland $19

Tours and Activities in Albuquerque

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Albuquerque.

  • 12pm - Public High Noon History, Legends & Lore Tour - Guided Old Town Stroll: $35
  • ABQ NM Film locations Tour, tour your favorite movies/shows filmed in ABQ: $45
  • Albuquerque Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Guided Family Walking Tour: $599
  • Turquoise Museum Admission Ticket: $20
  • Breaking Bad RV Tour, visiting locations from Breaking Bad and Better call Saul: $80
  • Breaking Bad RV Virtural Tour: $13
  • Georgia on My Mind: Georgia O'keeffe and Ghost Ranch Country Tour: $395
  • Guided Bicycle Nature Tour of Albuquerque - Daily: $69
  • Mezcla de Culturas A Walking Tour of ABQ Sawmill District & Historic Old Town: $75
  • New Mexico Flavors Tour Of Old Town Albuquerque: $124
  • New Mexico Mines, Wild West Towns and Turquoise Trail Tour from Albuquerque: $295

Tours and Activities in Portland

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

  • 1-Hour Private Air Tour of Mount Hood and Columbia Gorge: $430
  • 2-Hour Champagne Brunch Cruise Through Downtown Portland: $78
  • 2-Hour Lunch Cruise Through Downtown Portland: $69
  • 20-Minute Columbia River Gorge Air Tour: $65
  • 20-minute Private Gorge Air Tour for 3: $130
  • 30-minute Multnomah Falls & Columbia Gorge Air Tour: $128
  • 40-minute Aerial Tour of Portland: $184
  • 40-minute Private Downtown Portland Air Tour for 3: $286
  • 5 Lighthouse Bike Tour with XL Lobster Roll: $132
  • A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland: $40
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $65
  • All Day Northern Oregon Wineries and Forest Bike Tour: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Albuquerque $16
    Portland $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Power Through Portland Bar Crawl: $12
  • Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass: $40
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $49
  • Eastside Craft Brewery Walking Tour: $55
  • Portland Brewery Bike Tour: $71
  • Oregon Famous Wine Country Wine Tasting Adventure: $75
  • Brews & Bites - Food Carts & Brewery Tour: $94
  • Views and Brews, Portland Brewery Bike Tour: $118
  • 5-Hour Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Tastings: $120
  • Oregon Coast Brewery Tour: $130
  • Willamette Valley Wine Tasting from Portland: $139
  • Full-Day City & Oregon Wine Tasting Tour: $140

About these numbers

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Albuquerque and Portland, we can see that Portland is more expensive. And not only is Albuquerque much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Albuquerque would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Albuquerque 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 Portland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portland than you might in Albuquerque.

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Albuquerque vs. Portland Travel Comparison

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