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

Should you visit Lisbon or Austin?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Austin? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Austin

Austin is a unconventional, lively, and entrepreneurial city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is beautiful destination to visit. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Austin?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Austin. While Austin is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is better known for its museums, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Austin is more popular for its hiking. Lisbon is more touristy than Austin and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Lisbon different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Austin 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 Austin?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Austin 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.

Austin has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Nightlife?

The fantastic nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Austin.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Lisbon and Austin.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Austin is a world class music destination. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Austin?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Families?

Lisbon is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Lisbon or Austin Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Austin are very good destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Austin is very popular with students. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Lisbon or Austin a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Austin. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

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

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

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Austin. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Austin?

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.

Austin 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.

Five days in Lisbon or Austin?

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 Austin. 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.

A week in Lisbon or Austin?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the unconventional destination of Austin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Austin, we can see that Austin 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. Even though Lisbon is in Europe and Austin is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Austin, 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 Austin?

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 Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is cooler than Austin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Austin averages at about 87°F (30°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Austin. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Austin. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Austin. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Lisbon is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Austin. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Austin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Austin. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Austin in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets less sunshine than Austin. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Austin. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In the spring, Lisbon is cooler than Austin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Austin averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Austin during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Austin. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Austin and Lisbon