A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edinburgh vs. Porto for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Edinburgh or Porto?

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 Porto 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 vibrant, gothic, and ancient 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Porto

Porto is a cultural, cosmopolitan, and dynamic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Porto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Porto. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Porto attracts visitors for its food and big city activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Porto 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. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

How is Edinburgh different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Porto 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 Porto?

Edinburgh is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a great city for theatre. However, Porto is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Porto is not a theatre destination.

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

Porto is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Porto.

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.

Porto is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Music?

Edinburgh is very popular for live music. However, Porto is not a live music destination.

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.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Porto?

Edinburgh is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Porto are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. 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.

Porto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Porto are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh and Porto are both amazing destinations for backpackers.

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

Porto is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Is Edinburgh or Porto Better for Students?

Both Edinburgh and Porto are superb destinations 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.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

Porto is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Porto can get you to some places easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Porto a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is very popular for its walkability. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its high level of walkability.

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Porto is a very walkable city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

For even more information, also check out Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Porto?

In either Edinburgh or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Edinburgh has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Edinburgh than Porto. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Edinburgh than Porto. 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 Porto. 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 Porto 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 Porto?

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this gothic destination 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.

People visit Porto because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Porto because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Porto?

Edinburgh is a fun place to experience. In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this quaint 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.

People visit Porto because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Porto?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the charming destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Porto?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh and Porto, 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 Porto?

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 Porto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Porto. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 14°C (58°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Porto during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Porto. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Porto. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Edinburgh is much colder than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Porto. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Porto. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. In the winter, Edinburgh is much colder than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Edinburgh in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Porto during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Porto. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Edinburgh during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Porto. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 7°C (45°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Porto. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Porto. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Porto and Edinburgh