A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bremen vs. Portofino for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Bremen or Portofino?

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 Bremen and Portofino can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bremen

Bremen is a historic, beautiful, and colorful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portofino

Portofino is a picturesque, breathtaking, and opulent seaside village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Bremen and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Bremen or Portofino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portofino. Although Bremen and Portofino are both popular with visitors, Portofino has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portofino is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bremen is known for its museums and historical sights. Portofino is more touristy than Bremen and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. It is also home to its scenic harbor. Bremen is popular for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany.

its scenic harbor
Its scenic harbor

How is Bremen different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bremen or Portofino?

Bremen
Portofino

Bremen is notable for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

Bremen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.


Is the Food Better in Bremen or Portofino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bremen
Portofino

Portofino is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Portofino is an experience not to be missed. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bremen. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Bremen
Portofino

Evening events are great in both Bremen and Portofino.

Bremen has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

Portofino has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Bremen
Portofino

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for its resorts. However, Bremen is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Portofino is a perfect choice. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Bremen is not a resort destination.


Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Bremen
Portofino

Portofino is very good for the beach. However, Bremen is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Portofino to enjoy the beach. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Bremen is not a beach destination.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Bremen
Portofino

Bremen is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Bremen offers plenty to see. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Bremen
Portofino

Portofino is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bremen is not a hiking destination.

Portofino is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Bremen is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bremen or Portofino?

Bremen
Portofino

Both Bremen and Portofino are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bremen. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Families?

Bremen
Portofino

Bremen is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

Bremen is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Couples?

Bremen
Portofino

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for couples. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Portofino has plenty to offer. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

Bremen is a nice destination for couples. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.


Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bremen
Portofino

Bremen is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Bremen or Portofino Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bremen
Portofino

Bremen is notable for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bremen can get you to some places easily. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Bremen or Portofino a more walkable city?

Bremen
Portofino

Bremen and Portofino both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Bremen on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Portofino. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.


For even more information, also check out Is Bremen Worth Visiting? and Is Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Bremen?

How long in Bremen or Portofino?

In either Bremen or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Bremen because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Bremen, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bremen than Portofino 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 Bremen.


  • How many days in Bremen or Portofino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bremen 2-4 
    Portofino 2-5

One day in Bremen or Portofino?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bremen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Portofino might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Bremen or Portofino?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Bremen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Portofino 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 Bremen or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Bremen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portofino. 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.


A week in Bremen or Portofino?

Bremen is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Portofino is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside village 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 Music Tours in Germany, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Portofino or Bremen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bremen is €147, while the average daily cost in Portofino is €326. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bremen and Portofino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bremen 76
    Portofino 190
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bremen 152
    Portofino 380
Compare Hotels in Bremen and Portofino

Looking for a hotel in Bremen or Portofino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bremen


Hotels in Portofino


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bremen Hotel Prices and Portofino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bremen 45
    Portofino 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bremen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bremen:

  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $65
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Cruise Port to Hamburg Hotels: $65
  • Private Transfer From Bremen City to Hanover City: $94
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $175
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg With a 2 Hour Stop: $233

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:

  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa Airport(GOA): $49
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa city hotels: $49
  • Portofino hotels to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer - Portofino Cruise Port to Florence Airport(FLR): $158
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Florence hotels: $158
  • CAR 3 PAX TRANSFER TO AIRPORT MILANO MALPENSA: $876

Is it cheaper to fly into Bremen or Portofino?

Prices for flights to both Portofino and Bremen change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bremen 36
    Portofino 118
Typical Food Prices in Bremen

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bremen are as follows:


  • Croissant & Cappacino
    3.90
  • Fish and Chips
    3.20
  • Pizza and Cola
    7.00
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    8.00
  • Vietnamese Soup
    5.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee
    8.00
  • Pastry and Coffee
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portofino

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portofino.

  • Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch: $246

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bremen 34
    Portofino 27

Tours and Activities in Bremen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bremen are as follows:

  • Exploration Game & City Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $7.43
  • Bremen City Exploration Private Game and Tour on your Phone: $7.62
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Centre Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Public Tour of the Town Hall in English: $9.62
  • Guided Historical Walking Tour in Bremen : $11
  • Walking Tour of Historic Schnoor District: $13
  • Night Watchman Guided Tour for Children (in German): $13
  • Guided Tour of City Center: $13
  • Übersee Museum Entrance Ticket: $14
  • Detective Trail 2.5-hour puzzle tour for families: $16
  • Experience Bremen by bike: $16

Tours and Activities in Portofino

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portofino are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino: $42
  • Snorkel Tour in Paraggi Bay: $43
  • Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience: $52
  • Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling: $52
  • Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino: $54
  • Portofino Kayak Tour: $54
  • Coasteering Tour: $74
  • Portofino and San Fruttuoso Boat Experience: $107
  • Portofino Private Walking Tour: $267
  • White Boat Tour Tigullio Portofino: $449
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif of Ligurian goods: $481
  • Private Tour of Genoa and Portofino from Genoa: $713

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bremen 34
    Portofino 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Bremen

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bremen:

  • 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $22


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bremen or Portofino?

Bremen has a larger population, and is about 1030 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Bremen and Portofino, 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.