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

Should you visit Dubai 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 Dubai and Lisbon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a opulent, modern, and glamorous city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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.

Dubai and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Lisbon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Dubai. While Dubai is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Dubai attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling. Dubai is famous for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Dubai different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Lisbon is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Dubai for snow skiing. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Lisbon is not a skiing destination.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Dubai can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find world-class options in both Dubai and Lisbon.

People head to Dubai just to party. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Music?

Dubai and Lisbon are both destinations where visitors can find world-class live music.

Dubai has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. 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.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Dubai is a great choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Dubai has a few good snorkeling spots. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Dubai and Lisbon are nice choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Dubai to enjoy the beach. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. 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 Dubai or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around 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.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Lisbon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Lisbon both offer plenty of world-class spots.

Many people travel to Dubai specifically to go shopping. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubai. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

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 Dubai or Lisbon Better for Couples?

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

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known 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.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Lisbon Better for Students?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

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

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known 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.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

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

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Lisbon?

Both Dubai and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lisbon than Dubai. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Dubai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Lisbon, many people enjoy the live music and food that this picturesque big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dubai or Lisbon?

Dubai is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. In Lisbon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Lisbon?

Dubai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Lisbon, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this colorful big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Lisbon?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Dubai 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 Dubai or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Lisbon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Lisbon. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Dubai this time of the year. Dubai is much warmer than Lisbon in the summer. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 35°C (95°F) in July, and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Lisbon. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, 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, Dubai is much warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dubai in October average around 29°C (84°F), and Lisbon averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Lisbon. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Lisbon in the Winter?

Both Lisbon and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Dubai is generally much warmer than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 19°C (66°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Dubai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Dubai is much warmer than Lisbon in the spring. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 26°C (79°F) in April, and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Lisbon. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Dubai