A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Greensboro vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Greensboro and Portland, Maine. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a welcoming, under-rated, and friendly city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Greensboro and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Portland, Maine than Greensboro. While Greensboro is larger than Portland, Maine, Portland, Maine has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Portland, Maine is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Greensboro is known for its museums. Portland, Maine is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. It is also home to The Portland Head Light. Greensboro is popular for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Greensboro different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Greensboro is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Greensboro. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Greensboro or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Greensboro may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Greensboro and Portland, Maine.

Greensboro has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is well known for the beache. However, Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.


Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine offers some nice hiking trails. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland, Maine and Greensboro.

Greensboro offers some nice shopping areas. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.

Portland, Maine has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with a few options for its Christmas activities. However, Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.

The Christmas holiday can be fun in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Greensboro does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Both Greensboro and Portland, Maine are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Greensboro. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Portland, Maine makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.

Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine Better for Students?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Greensboro is a popular place for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Greensboro is popular with students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.


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

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Greensboro is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Greensboro or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Greensboro
Portland, Maine

Greensboro and Portland, Maine both are decent when exploring on foot.

Greensboro is generally not very walkable. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Greensboro?

How long in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

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

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

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


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

One day in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

The welcoming destination of Greensboro offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic coastal town of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

The city of Greensboro offers museums and nightlife. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Greensboro is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Portland, Maine, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Greensboro. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Portland, Maine or Greensboro?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Greensboro is $162, while the average daily cost in Portland, Maine is $192. 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 Greensboro and Portland, Maine in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Greensboro $96
    Portland, Maine $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Greensboro $192
    Portland, Maine $230
Compare Hotels in Greensboro and Portland, Maine

Looking for a hotel in Greensboro or Portland, Maine? 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 Greensboro


Hotels in Portland, Maine


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: Greensboro Hotel Prices and Portland, Maine Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Greensboro $24
    Portland, Maine $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:

  • Portland Jetport (PWM) to Portland - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $165
  • Portland to Portland Jetport (PWM) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $42
  • Private Transfer from Portland Jetport (PWM) to Portland Port: $42
  • Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $42
  • Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Prices for flights to both Portland, Maine and Greensboro 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
    Greensboro $48
    Portland, Maine $48

Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $17
  • Dinner for 2
    $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Greensboro $26
    Portland, Maine $39

Tours and Activities in Greensboro

Here are a few actual costs in Greensboro for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • True Crime Tour: $16
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • African American History Walking Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine

Here are a few actual costs in Portland, Maine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $6.75
  • Smartphone Old Port Portland, ME Audio Walking Tour APP/GPS: $6.75
  • Walking Tour Audio Guide: $8.49
  • Downtown Portland In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Portland Maine Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Portland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Portland by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Portland Exploration: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $14
  • Ultimate Portland Self-Guided Driving GPS Audio Tour: $15
  • Portland: Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle of Portland Maine Tours: $17
  • Maine: Self-Guided Walking & Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Greensboro $20
    Portland, Maine $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:

  • Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99


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

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


Which is Bigger, Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Greensboro and Portland, Maine, 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 Greensboro or Portland, Maine?

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 Greensboro or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and Greensboro are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Greensboro this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Greensboro is a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the summer temperatures in Greensboro in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during summer. Greensboro gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Greensboro. In July, Greensboro usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Greensboro gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C) 
    Portland, Maine 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Greensboro during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Greensboro for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Greensboro is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Greensboro average around 62°F (17°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Greensboro. In the autumn, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Greensboro gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets less rain in October than Portland, Maine. Greensboro gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C) 
    Portland, Maine 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Greensboro and Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to Greensboro in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. Greensboro can get quite cold in the winter. Greensboro is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the winter. The daily temperature in Greensboro averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during winter. Greensboro gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Greensboro usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland, Maine. Greensboro gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C) 
    Portland, Maine 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Greensboro or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Greensboro as well as Portland, Maine. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Greensboro is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the spring temperatures in Greensboro in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Greensboro this time of the year. In the spring, Greensboro often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Greensboro gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Greensboro usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Portland, Maine. Greensboro gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C) 
    Portland, Maine 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Greensboro

Greensboro Portland, Maine
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)