A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Portland for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Galveston or Portland?

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 Galveston and Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a historic, charming, and coastal town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Galveston and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Galveston or Portland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Galveston than Portland. While Portland is larger than Galveston, Galveston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Galveston is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and historical sights, while Portland attracts visitors for its music, hiking, and impressive beauty. Galveston is famous for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. It is also well known for Pleasure Pier. 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 Galveston different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Galveston
Portland

Galveston 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 Galveston. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

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 Galveston or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
Portland

Galveston is a town 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 Galveston. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

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 Galveston or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
Portland

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

Galveston has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

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 Galveston or Portland Better for Music?

Galveston
Portland

Portland is very good for its live music scene. However, Galveston is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Galveston is not a live music destination.


Is Galveston or Portland Better for Beaches?

Galveston
Portland

Galveston is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Galveston. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Galveston or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
Portland

Galveston is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Galveston is a good destination for visiting its old town. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Galveston or Portland Better for Hiking?

Galveston
Portland

Portland is great for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. 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.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Portland?

Galveston
Portland

If you're looking to go shopping, Galveston and Portland both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galveston. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Many visitors go to Portland to go shopping. 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 Galveston or Portland Better for Families?

Galveston
Portland

Galveston 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.

Galveston is a very family-friendly destination. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

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 Galveston or Portland Better for Couples?

Galveston
Portland

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

Galveston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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 Galveston or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
Portland

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many 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.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Galveston or Portland Better for Students?

Galveston
Portland

Portland is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

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.

Galveston is not popular with students.

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

Galveston
Portland

Portland is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.


Is Galveston or Portland a more walkable city?

Galveston
Portland

Portland is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Galveston and Portland. In our opinion, Galveston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Galveston than Portland. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Galveston 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 Portland.


  • How many days in Galveston or Portland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    Portland 2-3

One day in Galveston or Portland?

The town of Galveston offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Galveston or Portland?

Galveston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galveston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic 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 Galveston or Portland?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. 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 quirky 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 Galveston or Portland?

Galveston is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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.


Which place is cheaper, Portland or Galveston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $183, while the average daily cost in Portland is $180. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Galveston and Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Galveston and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or Portland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Galveston


Hotels in Portland


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Galveston Hotel Prices and Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    Portland $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

Also for Galveston, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $170
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $195
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $195
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $170
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $195

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $152
  • Arrival Private Transfer Portland Airport PDX to Portland City: $148
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $143
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $72
  • Portland downtown to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Waterfall Express -PDX: Waterfall Trolley Tickets + Transfer: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland and Galveston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Galveston $52
    Portland $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Portland Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $105
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • Portland Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $110
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $119
  • All-Inclusive Walking Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    Portland $24

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • 2 Hours Private Cemeteries of Galveston Walking Tour: $182
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $357
  • Demo and Reno Galveston Reconstructed Private Tour: $85
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Cemetery Private Tour: $85
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $19
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $25
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $60
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Champagne Brunch Cruise on Willamette River: $102
  • 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River: $86
  • 7 Wonders of the Gorge 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise: $90
  • 90 Minute Sailing Tour of Portland: $99
  • A Full Day of Wonder: Wine, Waterfalls, and Timberline Tour: $189
  • Aerial adventure above Portland, Oregon: $189
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $75
  • Afternoon Multnomah Falls and Gorge Waterfalls Tour: $75
  • Airplane Flight Tour over Portland, Oregon: $99
  • All Day Northern Oregon Wineries and Forest Bike Tour: $245
  • Amazing Private Gorge Air Tour for 3: $219
  • Amazing Waterfall and City Air Tour: $289

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Experience the Happy Hour Pub Crawl Tour in Galveston: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $49
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $59
  • Eastside Craft Brewery Walking Tour: $59
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $179
  • Silver Falls Hike and Wine Tour: $179
  • Multnomah Falls, Hood River Excursion Train Ride & Wine Tour: $210
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210


When comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Portland, we can see that Galveston 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. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston 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 Galveston 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 Galveston or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Portland. Many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 84°F (29°C), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In July, Galveston usually receives more rain than Portland. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Galveston in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Galveston is much warmer than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Galveston usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. In the winter, Galveston is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Galveston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Galveston usually receives less rain than Portland. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Galveston or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Galveston during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches and the small town charm. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In April, Galveston is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Galveston usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Portland. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and Galveston

Galveston Portland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)