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

Should you visit Bucharest or Lisbon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Lisbon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

How is Bucharest different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Interesting museums and landmarks can be found in both Bucharest and Lisbon, but many consider Lisbon to be a step above.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.


Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Food?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Lisbon has a longer list of notable local restaurants than Bucharest.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Lisbon

With more options to choose from, you'll find a more vibrant nightlife in Lisbon.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Lisbon has a more popular old town than Bucharest.

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Shopping?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Lisbon is generally considered to be a more popular shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.


Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Families?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Families may find more to do in Lisbon than Bucharest.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Lisbon offers a wider variety of romantic activities for couples than Bucharest.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Most people consider Lisbon to be better for backpackers than Bucharest.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lisbon. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Lisbon Better for Public Transit?

Bucharest
Lisbon

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Lisbon.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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.


Is Bucharest or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Lisbon

Lisbon is considered more walkable than Bucharest.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable . Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Lisbon?

Both Bucharest 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 Bucharest.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Bucharest is 1-3 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Lisbon is 3-7 days.


  • How many days in Bucharest or Lisbon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Lisbon 3-7

One day in Bucharest or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bucharest. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. 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.

A weekend in Bucharest or Lisbon?

Bucharest 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.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Lisbon?

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

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Bucharest or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bucharest. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Which city is cheaper, Lisbon or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $111, while the average daily cost in Lisbon is $112. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bucharest and Lisbon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $51
    Lisbon $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $102
    Lisbon $102
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Lisbon

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest or Lisbon? 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 Bucharest


Hotels in Lisbon


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: Bucharest Hotel Prices and Lisbon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $21
    Lisbon $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Tulcea Bucharest Private Transfer: $235
  • Transfer to Sofia from Bucharest: $149
  • Transfer to Budapest from Bucharest: $311
  • Transfer from Bucharest to Sofia Bulgaria: $174
  • Transfer from Bucharest to Brasov: $156
  • Transfer To Sinaia: $100
  • Transfer From Sinaia - To Bucharest Otp Airport: $100
  • Transfer From Bucharest Airport To Sofia Bulgaria: $332
  • Transfer From Bucharest Airport To Brasov: $133
  • Transfer Bucharest - Poiana Brasov: $101
  • Therme Bucharest - Private Transfer: $19
  • Sibiu - Private Airport Transfer: $166

Typical Local Transportation prices in Lisbon

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Lisbon:


  • Taxi Ride
    $6.93

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisbon

Also for Lisbon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Private Transfer in Van to Caldas da Rainha or Óbidos or Fátima: $165
  • Airport Private Transfer in Van to Cascais or Sintra or Estoril: $68
  • Airport Private Transfer to Caldas da Rainha or Óbidos or Fátima: $99
  • Airport Private Transfer to Cascais or Sintra or Estoril: $27
  • Airport Private Transfer to Costa da Caparica or Almada: $19
  • Airport Private Transfer to Ericeira or Torres Vedras: $46
  • Airport Transfer: $44
  • Airport Transfer Lisbon: $54
  • Algarve Private Direct Transfer from Lisbon: $760
  • Arrival Private Transfer Business Car Lisbon airport LIS to Lisbon City: $38
  • Arrival Private Transfer Luxury Van Lisbon airport LIS to Lisbon City: $49
  • Arrival Transfer at Family & Friends: $19

Is it cheaper to fly into Bucharest or Lisbon?

Prices for flights to both Lisbon and Bucharest 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
    Bucharest $47
    Lisbon $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

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

  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $80
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $199
  • Walking Food Tour in the Old Town of Bucharest: $199
  • Bucharest City Tour & Traditional Home-made Cooking Experience: $223
  • Private Dracula Castle Tour by night and Romanian traditional dinner: $331

Typical Food prices in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $2.66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Virtual Portuguese Cooking Lesson: $31
  • Live Online Cooking Class from Pastel de Nata with Filipa: $39
  • Bohemian dinner party on a beautiful rooftop near the coast: $42
  • 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class: $51
  • The magic of Pasteis de Nata cooking class in Lisbon: $53
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour New To Lisbon: $54
  • Withlocals Your Way: Lisbon Personalised Private Food Tour: $56
  • Pastel de Nata Cooking Class with Local Baker: $57
  • Private Groups: Pastel de Nata cooking class and tasting in Lisbon's pastry shop: $57
  • Authentic Portuguese dinner with a local chef: $58
  • Lisbon Food Tour: $62
  • Lisbon Old Town Food Tour by Sitway: $63

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $12
    Lisbon $21

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

Here are a few actual costs in Bucharest for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day - 4x4 Private Tour in Transylvania: $200
  • 1 Day 4x4 JEEP Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $129
  • 1 Day ATV and Buggy Tour Carpathian Mountains: $181
  • 1 Day Castles Tour - Sinaia and Bran: $149
  • 1 Day Communist Experience: $168
  • 1 Day Private Tour-Slanic Salt Mine, Mud Vulcanos & Wine Testing From Bucharest: $160
  • 1 Day Private Tour-Slanic Salt Mine, Mud Vulcanos - From Bucharest: $187
  • 1 day Cycling Tour from Bucharest - Biking The Roads Of History: $196
  • 1-Day Private Guided Tour: The Story of 40 Years of Communism in Romania: $158
  • 1-Day Private Tour - In the Footsteps of Communism - Execution Museum Included: $188
  • 1-Day Private Tour Constanta: The Ancient City of Tomis, Seaside Tour Included: $222
  • 10 days Small Group Balkans Tour from Bucharest with Bulgaria, Macedonia, Serbia: $2,115

Tours and Activities in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Lisbon Downtown Tour - The Perfect Introduction to the City: $1.24
  • Lisbon Historical Walking Tour: $3.11
  • Sintra Myths and Legends Interpretative Center Entry Ticket: $3.99
  • Contemporary Park of Nations Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.48
  • The Soul of Alfama Self-guided Audio Tour by VoiceMap Lisbon: $5.99
  • Museu Coleção Berardo Admission Ticket: $6.22
  • Skip the Line: Pilar 7 Bridge Experience Admission Ticket: $6.22
  • Street Art Virtual Tour in Lisbon: $6.22
  • Lisboa Story Centre: 1-Day Admission Ticket: $7.41
  • Lisboa Story Centre Admission Ticket: $8.09
  • Capuchos Convent Skip-the-Line Ticket: $8.71
  • Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Admission Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $7.42
    Lisbon $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

Also in Bucharest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $23
  • Wine Tasting Tour of Bucharest Old Town: $61
  • Wine Tasting Tour at First Wine Bar: $61
  • Private Wine Tasting at Bucharest's First Wine Bar: $65
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting – 2.5 hours: $88
  • Traditions in Village Museum & Wine Tasting: $93
  • Bike & Wine tour in Dealu Mare wineland: $96
  • Wine tasting at the mansion, Dracula's grave from Snagov & Mogosoaia Palace: $100
  • Traditions in Village Museum and Wine Tasting Tour: $100
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $106
  • Romanian Wine Tasting Experience: $113
  • Lacerta Crama Wine Tasting: $113

Sample the Local Flavors in Lisbon

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

  • 1-Hour Portuguese Wine Tasting Session: $22
  • 3-Hour Portuguese History & Flavors Food & Wine Tour: $30
  • Portuguese Wine Tasting and Cheese Lunch: $56
  • Christ the King and Arrábida Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting from Lisbon: $58
  • Craft Beer, Port & Wine Tour: $68
  • Food & Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $75
  • Santuário Cristo Rei-Sesimbra-Castle Palmela-Bacalhoa Winery with wine tasting: $81
  • Full-Day Évora Wine Tour: $84
  • Wine Tasting in Lisbon: $87
  • Private Van Tour Arrabida and Wine Tasting: $89
  • Wine tasting Private Day Tour ARRABIDA: $92
  • Van Private Tour Arrábida Wine Tour: $96


When comparing the travel costs between Bucharest 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.


When is the best time to visit Bucharest or Lisbon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bucharest or Lisbon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Lisbon. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Lisbon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July are around 23°C (73°F), and Lisbon is about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bucharest this time of the year. In the summer, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Lisbon. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Lisbon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Lisbon in the Autumn?

Both Lisbon and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bucharest is generally much colder than Lisbon. Temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Lisbon stays around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Lisbon 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Lisbon in the Winter?

Both Lisbon and Bucharest during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. Bucharest is much colder than Lisbon in the winter. The temperature in Bucharest is usually -1°C (29°F) in January, and Lisbon stays around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Lisbon. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Lisbon 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Lisbon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Lisbon. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bucharest is cooler than Lisbon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April are around 12°C (54°F), and Lisbon is about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Lisbon 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Bucharest

Bucharest Lisbon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 21°C (69°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)


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Bucharest vs. Lisbon Travel Comparison

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