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

Should you visit Lisbon or Baltimore?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Baltimore? 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.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Baltimore?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Baltimore are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Lisbon different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Baltimore 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Baltimore can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Baltimore has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Lisbon just to party. 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 Baltimore for the nightlife scene. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beache. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. 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.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Baltimore?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baltimore 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Baltimore.

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.

Baltimore is a very family-friendly place to visit. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Lisbon is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Baltimore. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore Better for Students?

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

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

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Baltimore. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

Is Lisbon or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Baltimore?

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

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

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Baltimore. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Baltimore?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Baltimore 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 Baltimore?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baltimore. 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 Baltimore?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Baltimore. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Baltimore, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. And not only is Lisbon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lisbon is in Europe and Baltimore is in North America, 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 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 Baltimore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baltimore 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 Baltimore Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Baltimore?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Baltimore, 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 Baltimore?

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 Baltimore in the Summer?

Both Baltimore and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Baltimore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun.

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Baltimore. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Baltimore in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Baltimore. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Baltimore in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Baltimore during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Baltimore in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Baltimore. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Baltimore averages at about 32°F (0°C).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Baltimore. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Baltimore. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Baltimore in the Spring?

Both Baltimore and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Baltimore. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Baltimore during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Lisbon