A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Hiking

Should you visit Austin or Portland, Maine?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Portland, Maine, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is a very beautiful destination, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food.

Austin and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Portland, Maine?

You'll generally find more things to do in Austin than Portland, Maine. Austin is bigger than Portland, Maine, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Austin is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Austin different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Portland, Maine?

Austin is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Austin or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

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

Austin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Music?

Austin is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

In Austin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a great destination for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Portland, Maine. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

Portland, Maine has hiking trails worth exploring. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Portland, Maine?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland, Maine and Austin.

Austin is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with a few options for its Christmas activities. However, Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Austin and Portland, Maine are both notable destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Austin. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Austin and Portland, Maine are both notable to visit as a couple.

Austin is a nice destination for couples. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Portland, Maine makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Austin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine Better for Students?

Austin is well known for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Austin is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Austin or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Austin and Portland, Maine both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Austin?

How long in Austin or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Austin and Portland, Maine. In our opinion, Austin has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Austin than Portland, Maine. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Portland, Maine 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Portland, Maine?

The eccentric destination of Austin offers live music and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland, Maine. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Portland, Maine?

The city of Austin offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine 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 Austin or Portland, Maine?

Austin is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Austin or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Austin. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the seaside destination of Portland, Maine. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Portland, Maine?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Portland, Maine, 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 Austin or Portland, Maine?

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 Austin or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Austin is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 87°F (30°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. Austin usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during summer. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Austin or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Austin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Austin is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. In the autumn, Austin often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in October than Portland, Maine. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Portland, Maine. The winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. In the winter, Austin is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Austin in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Austin or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Austin as well as Portland, Maine. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Austin is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 71°F (22°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the spring, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Portland, Maine. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Austin