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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Portland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Portland can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a ancient, charming, and character-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Portland

Portland is a scenic, laid-back, and progressive city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, hiking, and shopping.

Edinburgh and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Portland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Portland. While Portland is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Portland attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Edinburgh is more touristy than Portland and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also well known for The Edinburgh Castle. 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 Edinburgh different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Edinburgh from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for theatre. However, Portland is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Portland is not a theatre destination.

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

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

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edinburgh. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Music?

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

Edinburgh is known as a music capital around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for its Old Town?

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

Edinburgh has a world-famous historical area. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Edinburgh or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Portland?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh or Portland Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Edinburgh and Portland.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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 Edinburgh or Portland a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Portland?

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

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Portland?

The beautiful city of Edinburgh offers theater 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.

You'll find live music and shopping around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Portland?

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

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Portland?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the nature-filled city of Portland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Portland?

Edinburgh 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Portland, we can see that Portland 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 Edinburgh is in Europe and Portland is in North America, 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Portland in the Summer?

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

In July, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Portland. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Portland in the Autumn?

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

Edinburgh is cooler than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Portland. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Portland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Portland. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Edinburgh. In the winter, Edinburgh is cooler than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Portland during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Portland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Portland. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Portland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Portland. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Edinburgh