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

Should you visit Lisbon or Amalfi?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Amalfi? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a dramatic, charming, and picturesque town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Lisbon and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Amalfi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Amalfi are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Amalfi is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and hiking. Amalfi is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Amalfi can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Amalfi has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Many people head to Amalfi for the nightlife scene. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Amalfi is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon 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.

Amalfi is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Amalfi is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Amalfi has a few good snorkeling spots. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Amalfi are good choices.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people head to Amalfi to enjoy the beach. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Amalfi is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Amalfi. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Amalfi?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Families?

Lisbon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Couples?

Amalfi is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Amalfi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi Better for Students?

Lisbon is well known for students. However, Amalfi is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

While Amalfi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is Lisbon or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Amalfi are terrific when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Amalfi on foot is easy. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Amalfi?

Both Lisbon and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lisbon than Amalfi. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Amalfi. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Amalfi 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 Lisbon or Amalfi?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Amalfi. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Amalfi?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Amalfi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Amalfi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amalfi. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Amalfi?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dramatic destination of Amalfi. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Amalfi?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Amalfi, 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 Lisbon or Amalfi?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amalfi in the Summer?

Both Amalfi and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Amalfi for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Amalfi, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Amalfi. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Amalfi. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amalfi in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Amalfi. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Amalfi because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Amalfi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Amalfi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Amalfi during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Amalfi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amalfi in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Amalfi. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

In the winter, Lisbon is a little warmer than Amalfi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Amalfi averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Amalfi. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Amalfi. Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Amalfi. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amalfi in the Spring?

Both Amalfi and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amalfi for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Amalfi during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Lisbon