A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jakarta vs. Lisbon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Jakarta or Lisbon?

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 Jakarta and Lisbon. 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.

Jakarta

Jakarta is a diverse, genuine, and sprawling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Jakarta travel costs.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Lisbon travel costs.

Jakarta and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Jakarta. While Jakarta is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Jakarta and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Jakarta is well known for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls.

How is Jakarta different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Lisbon is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Lisbon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Jakarta offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a huge number of museums around town like the National Museum, Museum Layang-Layang, and Museum MACAN. There's also Merdeka Square, which is one of the world's biggest public squares and Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.

Is the Food Better in Jakarta or Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Jakarta. There are so many different cultures represented in Indonesian cuisine, and you'll find them all in Jakarta. The food stalls, restaurants, and casual eateries all have their own flavor and style, which makes dining in this mega-city a true adventure.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for nightlife. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Jakarta. It's a huge city, so there's a very active nightlife scene, but it's mostly focused on locals and not tourists like you'll find elsewhere in Indonesia. For the best nightlife district, head to Kemang, which has many bars and clubs.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for live music. However, Jakarta is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is known as a music capital around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Jakarta is not a live music destination.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for its beaches. However, Jakarta is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Jakarta is not a beach destination.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its historic old town. However, Jakarta does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Jakarta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Lisbon is terrific for shopping. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Jakarta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with high end luxury malls where you can buy the latest fashions and many international brands. Around town you'll also find everything from local handicrafts to chic boutiques and grand international chains.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon More Beautiful?

Lisbon is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Families?

Lisbon is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Jakarta is a family-friendly place to visit. Most visitors skip out on this huge city, and it's definitely not the first place that comes to mind when you think about family-friendly destinations, but there's actually a very fascinating culture that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There's the Kota area, which has colonial architecture. There's also a puppet museum and several history museums. But for most kids, the highlight is a visit to the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol area, which has amusement parks and even SeaWorld.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a great city for romance. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Jakarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most travelers looking for a romantic destination will head to the many famous honeymoon spots in Indonesia. But for those who make their way to Jakarta, there is sure to be a lot of adventure and culture. The city has many great museums as well as nature parks and amusement parks.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jakarta. Visitors often have strong feelings about this city, whether they love it or hate it. For those backpackers who spend some time here, they're sure to be treated to a look at true Indonesian culture, which is hard to find in the more touristy areas.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Students?

Lisbon is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Jakarta is not popular with students.

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Jakarta is not popular with students.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Jakarta is not known for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Public transit is generally limited in Jakarta. Public transportation has improved a lot recently. There's a commuter line as well as buses. The system can be a bit overwhelming and slow though, so tourists often avoid it.

Is Jakarta or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its walkability. However, Jakarta is not known for its high level of walkability.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Jakarta is generally not very walkable. Central Jakarta is more walkable than most of the city but, in general, the city has a lot of traffic and isn't the best for exploring on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Jakarta Worth Visiting? and Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Jakarta?

How long in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Both Jakarta and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Jakarta. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Jakarta, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Jakarta 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 Lisbon.

One day in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Jakarta is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Lisbon, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Jakarta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Lisbon, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Jakarta or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jakarta. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Jakarta or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the sprawling big city of Jakarta. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. In Lisbon, you'll find live music and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Indonesia, The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jakarta and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Jakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Jakarta is in Asia and Lisbon is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Jakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jakarta 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Jakarta.

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

Which is Bigger, Jakarta or Lisbon?

Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Jakarta and Lisbon, 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.