A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Portland for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens 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 Athens 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.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a tree-lined, nature-filled, and scenic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Athens and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Portland. Athens is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Portland?

Athens is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Athens is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Athens is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Athens or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for its music scene. However, Athens is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Athens is not a live music destination.

Is Athens or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Athens is very popular for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a world-famous historical area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Portland?

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

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Portland is a great destination for shopping. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Families?

Athens is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Athens is a very family-friendly destination. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Couples?

Athens and Portland both notable destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Students?

Athens is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Is Athens or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Athens can move around easily with public transportation. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Athens or Portland a more walkable city?

Athens and Portland are very good when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Athens?

How long in Athens or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Portland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Portland 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Portland?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. 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.

A weekend in Athens or Portland?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland 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.

Five days in Athens or Portland?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Portland?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the quirky destination of Portland. This city 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Portland, we can see that Portland is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens is in Europe and Portland is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens 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 Athens.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Portland?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Portland, 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 Athens or Portland?

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 Athens or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Portland. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Portland. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Portland. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In October, Athens is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Portland. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. Athens is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Portland. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Athens