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

Should you visit Antalya or Lisbon?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a high energy, relaxing, and luxurious vacation spot. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Antalya and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Lisbon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Antalya. While Antalya is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Antalya attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Antalya is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. 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 Antalya different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for live music.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

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 Antalya or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Hiking?

Antalya is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Lisbon?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Antalya and Lisbon.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Lisbon.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Lisbon is 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.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Lisbon make for a high quality place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

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.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Is Antalya or Lisbon Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya 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.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Antalya. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Is Antalya or Lisbon a more walkable city?

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Lisbon?

Both Antalya 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 Antalya. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Antalya. 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 Antalya. 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 Antalya 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.

One day in Antalya or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Lisbon?

Antalya 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.

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Antalya or Lisbon?

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

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Lisbon, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Lisbon?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 46% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya or Lisbon?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, 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.

Antalya is a little warmer than Lisbon in the summer. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antalya usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Lisbon in the Autumn?

Both Lisbon and Antalya during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya 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, Antalya is around the same temperature as Lisbon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antalya in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Lisbon averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Lisbon. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in October than Lisbon. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Lisbon. Many travelers come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 11°C (51°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Lisbon during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Lisbon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Lisbon. Many visitors come to Antalya in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Antalya is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the spring. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 16°C (62°F) in April, and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the spring, Antalya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in April than Lisbon. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Antalya