A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Portimao for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Istanbul or Portimao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Portimao, 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.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a historic, diverse, and beautiful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao

Portimao is a adventure-filled, vibrant, and colorful coastal city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Istanbul and Portimao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Portimao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Portimao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Istanbul is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Portimao is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Istanbul is well known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Portimao is well known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities.

How is Istanbul different from Portimao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Istanbul or Portimao?

Istanbul is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Istanbul or Portimao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Istanbul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Portimao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many resorts have attached restaurants where visitors often find themselves dining. For a slightly more local vibe, you can check out one of the many restaurants around town. Much of the restaurant scene is centered around the Alvor District where you'll find unique options that serve local dishes mixed in with some international choices. The city is most famous for its grilled sardines, which are considered a local specialty.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Istanbul and Portimao.

Istanbul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Portimao has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Resorts?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Portimao offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The area has all types of resorts, from all-inclusive options to luxury or more family-friendly. Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Portimao to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Beaches?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Portimao are among the best in the world. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Istanbul is one of the most recognized in the world. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Portimao?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Istanbul. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portimao. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Families?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Portimao is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. Kids will love the wide range of activities available near Portimao. They can kayak through caves, see an underwater world snorkeling, learn to surf, visit waterparks, explore nature parks, and more. There are activities that the whole family can enjoy, making this stretch of coastline the perfect option for those traveling with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Istanbul is very family-friendly. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Couples?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Portimao has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers unique beaches and stunning outdoor activities. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. There are great restaurants as well as places to relax or activities for thrill seekers.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Portimao. Most people think of high end resorts when they think of the Mediterranean coast, but there are a couple of hostels available for backpackers. You should also consider transportation options. While buses are available, many visitors prefer to have access to a car so they can experience the outlying regions. The good news is the area in general is not particularly expensive so you can enjoy a touch of luxury at a lower cost.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Students?

Istanbul is a well-known place for students. However, Portimao is not popular with students.

Many students visit Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Portimao is not popular with students.

Is Istanbul or Portimao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Istanbul is renowned for its public transit. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has a great public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portimao. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.

Is Istanbul or Portimao a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its walkability.

Istanbul is a very walkable destination. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Portimao is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Portimao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portimao or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Portimao?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Portimao. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-4 days is enough time in Portimao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Portimao 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 Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Portimao?

Istanbul is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The beautiful coastal city of Portimao offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Portimao?

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Portimao?

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

Portimao is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

A week in Istanbul or Portimao?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Portimao is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Portugal, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Portimao?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 290 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Portimao, 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 Istanbul or Portimao?

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 Istanbul or Portimao in the Summer?

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

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Portimao. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Portimao fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

In July, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Portimao. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Portimao in the Autumn?

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

Istanbul is cooler than Portimao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Portimao fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portimao. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Portimao in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Portimao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Portimao averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Portimao. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Portimao in the Spring?

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

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Portimao. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Portimao fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Portimao. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portimao and Istanbul