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

Should you visit Lisbon or Avignon?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Avignon? 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 vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Avignon

Avignon is a charming, scenic, and picturesque town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Lisbon and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Avignon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Avignon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is very popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Avignon attracts visitors for its small town charm. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Avignon is famous for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Lisbon different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Avignon and Lisbon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Avignon that are not to be missed. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Avignon 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.

Avignon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its music scene. However, Avignon is not a live music destination.

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.

Avignon is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beach. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the amazing old towns in both Lisbon and Avignon.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. 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.

The rich history of Avignon can be explored in its historical center. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Avignon?

Lisbon is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Families?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Avignon make for a superb place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Lisbon or Avignon Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Avignon is not popular with students.

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

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Lisbon or Avignon a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Avignon are amazing 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 Avignon on foot is easy. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Avignon. 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 Avignon. 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 Avignon 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 Avignon?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

Avignon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Avignon?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

Avignon 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 Avignon?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Avignon. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Avignon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Avignon, we can see that Avignon 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 Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon 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 Avignon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Avignon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Lisbon or Avignon in the Summer?

Both Avignon and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Avignon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Avignon in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Avignon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Avignon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Avignon during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Avignon. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Avignon in the Autumn?

Both Avignon and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Avignon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Avignon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Avignon. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Avignon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Avignon. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Avignon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Avignon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Avignon. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Avignon during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Avignon. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Avignon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Avignon. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Avignon in the spring for the small town charm.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Avignon in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Avignon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Avignon. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Avignon. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Lisbon