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

Should you visit Lisbon or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Bordeaux? 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Bordeaux, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bordeaux is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. 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 Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Music?

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

Bordeaux is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a popular place for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

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.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Bordeaux?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Lisbon is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Bordeaux make for a high quality 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 Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Bordeaux are high quality 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.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Is Lisbon or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Bordeaux?

In either Lisbon or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Bordeaux because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Bordeaux?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Bordeaux?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the elegant destination of Bordeaux. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Bordeaux, we can see that Lisbon 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Bordeaux?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Bordeaux. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Bordeaux. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Bordeaux. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bordeaux in the Spring?

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

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Lisbon