A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Delphi vs. Portofino for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Delphi or Portofino?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Delphi or Portofino, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Portofino

Portofino is a exclusive, luxurious, and glamorous seaside village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Delphi and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Temple of Apollo
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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


Is there more to do in Delphi or Portofino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portofino. Although Delphi and Portofino are both popular with visitors, Portofino has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portofino is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Delphi is known for its museums. Delphi is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. Portofino is popular for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. It is also home to its scenic harbor.

its scenic harbor
Its scenic harbor

How is Delphi different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Delphi
Portofino

Delphi is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Delphi are among the most recognizable in the world. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

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 Delphi or Portofino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Portofino has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Delphi offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Is Delphi or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is great for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Portofino for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Delphi or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Delphi is not a resort destination.

Portofino offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Delphi is not a resort destination.


Is Delphi or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Delphi is not a beach destination.

Portofino has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Delphi is not a beach destination.

Is Delphi or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is great for its historic old town charm. However, Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Portofino to see the historical old town. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Is Delphi or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is great for hiking. However, Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portofino for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Delphi is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Delphi or Portofino?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is great for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Delphi or Portofino Better for Families?

Delphi
Portofino

Delphi is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.

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 Delphi or Portofino Better for Couples?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is renowned for couples. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for romance.

Portofino has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Delphi is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.


Is Delphi or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delphi
Portofino

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Delphi. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Delphi
Portofino

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

Delphi has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

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 Delphi or Portofino a more walkable city?

Delphi
Portofino

Portofino is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its walkability.

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

Delphi is very walkable. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Delphi?

How long in Delphi or Portofino?

In either Delphi or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Delphi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Delphi, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

Couples should spend more time in Portofino than Delphi. 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 Portofino than Delphi 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 Portofino.


  • How many days in Delphi or Portofino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delphi 1-2 
    Portofino 2-5

One day in Delphi or Portofino?

You'll find food and museums around the archeological site of Delphi. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Delphi has to offer. 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 Delphi or Portofino?

You'll find museums and food around the fascinating destination of Delphi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this archeological site has to offer. This archeological site 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 Delphi or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic archeological site of Delphi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. 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 Delphi or Portofino?

Delphi is a popular choice for travelers. 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 G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Portofino or Delphi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Delphi is €102, 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 Delphi and Portofino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delphi 59
    Portofino 190
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delphi 118
    Portofino 380
Compare Hotels in Delphi and Portofino

Looking for a hotel in Delphi 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 Delphi


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: Portofino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delphi 8.57
    Portofino 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Delphi or Portofino?

Prices for flights to both Portofino and Delphi 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
    Delphi 36
    Portofino 118

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.
    Delphi 11
    Portofino 27

Tours and Activities in Delphi

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Delphi.

  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.60
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48
  • Delphi Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with 3D Representations: $7.59
  • Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Ticket & Audio Tour for Delphi's Oracle. Listen to Ancient Echoes: $13
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $16
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided Virtual Tour of The Google of the Ancient world: $17
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Refundable Ticket with Audio: $18
  • Audio Guided tour of the sites in French or English: $19
  • Athens: Mythology of Delphi and Museum Guided Day Tour: $26

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delphi 13
    Portofino 16


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Delphi and Portofino, we can see that Portofino is more expensive. And not only is Delphi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delphi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delphi 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 Delphi.

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


Which is Bigger, Delphi or Portofino?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 1040 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Delphi 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.

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