A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brisbane vs. Lisbon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Brisbane or Lisbon?

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 Brisbane and Lisbon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a active, relaxed, and diverse coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Brisbane and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Brisbane. While Brisbane is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Brisbane attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Lisbon is more touristy than Brisbane and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Brisbane is famous for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

How is Brisbane different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brisbane can be an interesting and educational experience. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

Is the Food Better in Brisbane or Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Brisbane has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Brisbane is not a live music destination.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Brisbane is not a live music destination.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Brisbane has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Brisbane is considered a top beach destination. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane is a good destination for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Brisbane is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Lisbon.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Lisbon is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Students?

For students, both Brisbane and Lisbon are great places to visit.

Brisbane is very popular with students. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Lisbon is a great coastal city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Brisbane or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Brisbane is very walkable. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Both Brisbane and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Brisbane. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Brisbane 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 Lisbon.

One day in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Brisbane. 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.

Lisbon 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.

A weekend in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Brisbane 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.

Lisbon 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.

Five days in Brisbane or Lisbon?

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

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

A week in Brisbane or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed destination of Brisbane. This coastal city 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.

Lisbon 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 Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon 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 Brisbane is in Pacific and Lisbon 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 Brisbane Expensive? and Is Lisbon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Lisbon?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane and Lisbon, 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 Brisbane or Lisbon?

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

Should I visit Brisbane or Lisbon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brisbane and Lisbon. Most visitors come to Brisbane for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Brisbane is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the summer. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brisbane usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during summer. Brisbane gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun in the summer.

Brisbane gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Lisbonin July. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brisbane or Lisbon in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Brisbane is a little warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brisbane in April average around 22°C (71°F), and Lisbon averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In the autumn, Brisbane often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbonin October. Brisbane gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun.

Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Brisbane usually gets more rain in April than Lisbonin October. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Lisbon in the Winter?

Both Lisbon and Brisbane 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 Brisbane this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Brisbane is generally a little warmer than Lisbonin January. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 15°C (59°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Lisbon during winter. Brisbane gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. In July, Brisbane usually receives less rain than Lisbonin January. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brisbane or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Brisbane during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brisbane for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Brisbane is a little warmer than Lisbon in the spring. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F)in April.

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Brisbane. In the spring, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Lisbonin April. Brisbane gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun.

Brisbane usually gets more rain in October than Lisbonin April. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Brisbane