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

Should you visit Dublin or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Portland, 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a scenic, laid-back, and progressive city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Dublin and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. 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 Dublin different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dublin is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. 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 Dublin or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

Dublin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin or Portland Better for Music?

Dublin is a very popular place for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Dublin while you're in town. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Dublin or Portland Better for its Old Town?

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

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Dublin or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. 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.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Portland?

Dublin 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 Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin or Portland Better for Families?

Dublin is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. 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 Dublin or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Dublin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway 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 Dublin or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and Portland are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. 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 Dublin or Portland Better for Students?

Dublin and Portland are nice places to visit for students.

Dublin is popular with students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

It's common for students to visit Portland. 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 Dublin or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dublin and Portland.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Dublin or Portland a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Portland?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin 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 Dublin.

One day in Dublin or Portland?

The city of Dublin offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. 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 Dublin or Portland?

Dublin 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 Dublin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland 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 Dublin or Portland?

Dublin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dublin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Dublin or Portland?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the laid-back destination of Portland. This city 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, 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 Dublin and Portland, we can see that Portland is more expensive. And not only is Dublin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dublin 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 Dublin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dublin 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 Dublin.

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Portland?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 89% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin or Portland?

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 Dublin or Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Portland. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dublin is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. In the summer, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Portland. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dublin is cooler than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dublin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dublin or Portland in the Winter?

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

Portland can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Dublin is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Portland. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dublin usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Portland. Most visitors come to Dublin for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Dublin is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dublin usually receives less rain than Portland. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Dublin