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

Should you visit Bali 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 Bali and Porto can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Bali travel costs.

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Porto travel costs.

Bali and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Porto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Porto than Bali. While Bali is larger than Porto, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and big city activities, while Bali attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Porto and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Bali different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Porto is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Bali and Porto offer a number of fantastic restaurants to choose from.

Bali has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Porto is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Bali or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Bali is very popular for nightlife. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife and partying.

Bali is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Bali or Porto Better for Resorts?

Bali is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Porto is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Bali is a perfect choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Porto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali is not to be missed. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Porto Better for Beaches?

Bali is very popular for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Bali is a very popular vacation destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is a well-known place for its old town. However, Bali 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.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Porto Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great island for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bali for the hiking trails. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Porto?

Bali is a great island 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 Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

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

Is Bali or Porto More Beautiful?

Bali is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Bali because of it's amazing beauty. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

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.

Is Bali or Porto Better for Families?

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

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Porto. 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 Bali or Porto Better for Couples?

Bali is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Bali has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Bali or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and Porto are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

A large number of backpackers visit Porto, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Is Bali or Porto Better for Students?

Porto is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Porto is very popular with students. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Porto is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Porto can get you to some places 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.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Porto a more walkable city?

Porto is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island 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.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Bali?

How long in Bali or Porto?

In either Bali or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Porto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

One day in Bali or Porto?

In Bali, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this frequented destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

Porto is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bali or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Porto?

Bali is a fun place to experience. In Bali, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Porto is a dynamic big city where you can fill many days. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Porto?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

The dynamic port city of Porto offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Porto?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Bali 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 Bali or Porto?

Porto has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Porto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Porto. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In July, Bali is generally a little warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets less sunshine than Porto. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Porto in the Autumn?

Both Porto and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bali is much warmer than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Porto during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Porto. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Bali during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Porto. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bali usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Porto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Porto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Porto during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Porto. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Porto and Bali