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

Should you visit Canberra or Lisbon?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Lisbon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Canberra and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Lisbon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Canberra, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is known for its hiking. Lisbon is more touristy than Canberra and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Canberra different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its live music scene. However, Canberra is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. 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.

Canberra is not a live music destination.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a popular place for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Hiking?

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

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Lisbon?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Lisbon.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Lisbon is known to be 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 Canberra or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Lisbon Better for Students?

Both Canberra and Lisbon are high quality destinations for students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Canberra or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Lisbon?

Both Canberra 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 Canberra. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Canberra. 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 Canberra. 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 Canberra 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 Canberra or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Canberra. 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 Canberra or Lisbon?

Canberra 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 Canberra or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. 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 Canberra or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Canberra. This city 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 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 Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Canberra 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 Canberra 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 Canberra Expensive? and Is Lisbon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Lisbon?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra 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 Canberra or Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Canberra because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

In the summer, Canberra is cooler than Lisbon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Canberra in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Lisbon averages at about 23°C (73°F)in July.

In January, Canberra usually receives more rain than Lisbonin July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Canberra or Lisbon in the Autumn?

Both Lisbon and Canberra during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Canberra is generally cooler than Lisbonin October. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 17°C (63°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Canberra. Canberra usually gets more rain in April than Lisbonin October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Lisbon. Many travelers come to Canberra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Canberra is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the winter. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F)in January.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. In July, Canberra usually receives less rain than Lisbonin January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Canberra or Lisbon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Lisbon. Many visitors come to Canberra in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Canberra is around the same temperature as Lisbon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Canberra in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Lisbon averages at about 16°C (60°F)in April.

Canberra usually gets more rain in October than Lisbonin April. Canberra gets 95 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 Canberra