A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Budapest vs. Portland for Backpackers, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Budapest or Portland?

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 Budapest and Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a scenic, laid-back, and progressive city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Budapest and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Budapest than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Budapest is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland attracts visitors for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Budapest different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Budapest or Portland?

Budapest is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in Budapest or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Budapest and Portland.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Budapest. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Portland may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Budapest is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Budapest has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for its live music scene. However, Budapest is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Budapest is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Portland?

Budapest is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Budapest or Portland.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Couples?

Budapest is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Budapest makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Budapest or Portland Better for Students?

Budapest is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Budapest is a very popular city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Budapest is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Budapest has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Budapest or Portland a more walkable city?

Budapest is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Budapest and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than in Portland. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest than Portland 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 Budapest.

One day in Budapest or Portland?

Budapest 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.

The city of Portland offers nightlife and live music. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Budapest or Portland?

Budapest is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Budapest, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Budapest or Portland?

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

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Budapest or Portland?

Budapest is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Portland is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Portland?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Budapest and Portland, 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 Budapest or Portland?

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 Budapest or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Budapest and Portland. Many travelers come to Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Budapest is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 21°C (70°F), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Budapest usually receives more rain than Portland. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Budapest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Budapest is around the same temperature as Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Budapest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. Budapest can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Budapest is much colder than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Budapest in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Portland during winter. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Budapest usually receives less rain than Portland. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Budapest during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Budapest because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In April, Budapest is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Portland. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Budapest