A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Faro vs. Lucerne for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Faro or Lucerne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Lucerne, 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.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Faro or Lucerne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lucerne than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lucerne is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Faro is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture. Lucerne is well known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Faro different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Faro or Lucerne?

Lucerne is great for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lucerne can be an interesting and educational experience. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Faro or Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lucerne is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Lucerne. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Faro and Lucerne.

Many people head to Faro for the nightlife scene. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Resorts?

Faro is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Faro for its luxury resorts. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Beaches?

Faro is a good destination for the beach. However, Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Faro offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne is great for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its old town.

Many visitors go to Lucerne to see the historical old town. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Faro or Lucerne?

Lucerne is great for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Families?

Lucerne is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Lucerne is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Faro is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Faro. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Faro or Lucerne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Faro and Lucerne both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Faro offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Faro or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Faro and Lucerne are notable when it comes to walkability.

Faro is somewhat walkable. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable place. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

For even more information, also check out Is Faro Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Faro?

How long in Faro or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Faro and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Faro than in Lucerne. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Faro, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Faro than Lucerne 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 Faro.

One day in Faro or Lucerne?

In Faro, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Faro or Lucerne?

In Faro, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer.

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Faro or Lucerne?

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Lucerne. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Faro or Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Faro. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The scenic city of Lucerne offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Faro or Lucerne?

Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro and Lucerne, 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 Faro or Lucerne?

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 Faro or Lucerne in the Summer?

Both Lucerne and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Faro for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Faro is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 25°C (78°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Lucerne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during summer. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Faro usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Faro or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Faro during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Faro in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Faro is much warmer than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Faro. In the autumn, Faro often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lucerne. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Lucerne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Lucerne. Most visitors come to Faro for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. In the winter, Faro is much warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Faro in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Faro usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during winter. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Faro usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lucerne. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Faro or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Faro as well as Lucerne. The spring months attract visitors to Faro because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

In April, Faro is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 17°C (62°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In the spring, Faro often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in April than Lucerne. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Faro