A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Porto for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Auckland or Porto?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Porto can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Auckland travel costs.

Porto

Porto is a cultural, cosmopolitan, and dynamic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Porto travel costs.

Auckland and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Porto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland than Porto. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Auckland is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Porto attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

How is Auckland different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Porto?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Auckland and Porto.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Both Auckland and Porto have very good vibes after the sun sets.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

The people in Porto know how to have a good time. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Beaches?

Auckland is a great city for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Hiking?

Auckland is very good for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Porto?

Auckland is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Auckland or Porto More Beautiful?

Porto is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Auckland or Porto.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Porto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Couples?

Both Auckland and Porto are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Porto is extremely popular for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Students?

Both Auckland and Porto are very good destinations for students.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Porto is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Is Auckland or Porto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Porto is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Porto can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Auckland or Porto a more walkable city?

Porto is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Porto?

In either Auckland or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Porto than Auckland because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Auckland 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 Porto.

One day in Auckland or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Auckland has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful port city of Porto offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Auckland or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city 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 Porto, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Porto?

Auckland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Auckland. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Porto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Porto?

You'll find food and shopping around the thrill-seeking big city of Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Porto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Porto, we can see that Porto 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. Even though Auckland is in Pacific and Porto is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Porto?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Porto, 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 Auckland or Porto?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Auckland is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Porto has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Auckland or Porto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Porto. The summer months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In January, Auckland is generally around the same temperature as Portoin July. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 20°C (68°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In Auckland, it's very sunny this time of the year. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Porto during summer. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Auckland usually receives more rain than Portoin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auckland or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Porto. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Auckland is around the same temperature as Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F)in October.

In the autumn, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Portoin October. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Auckland usually gets less rain in April than Portoin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Auckland is around the same temperature as Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Auckland in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F)in January.

Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Porto during winter. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. It's quite rainy in Auckland. In July, Auckland usually receives less rain than Portoin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Auckland or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Auckland during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Auckland in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In October, Auckland is generally around the same temperature as Portoin April. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 14°C (58°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Portoin April. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Auckland usually gets less rain in October than Portoin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Porto and Auckland