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

Should you visit Lisbon or Budapest?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Budapest? 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 picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Budapest

Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Lisbon and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Budapest?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Budapest. While Budapest is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Budapest is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Lisbon different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lisbon are world-renowned. 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 Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its live music scene. However, Budapest is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beache. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its old town. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Budapest?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Families?

Lisbon is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lisbon is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Budapest make for a great 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 Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Budapest are both world-class destinations 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.

Budapest is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Is Lisbon or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

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

Visitors will find world-class public transit in both Lisbon and Budapest.

Visitors in Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Budapest has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Lisbon or Budapest a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Budapest are world-class 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 Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Budapest?

In either Lisbon or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

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 shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Budapest. 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.

A weekend in Lisbon or Budapest?

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.

Budapest 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest. 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.

A week in Lisbon or Budapest?

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 authentic big city of Budapest. This city 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 from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Budapest. 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 Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Budapest. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Budapest this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Budapest. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Budapest. 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 Budapest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is much warmer than Budapest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Budapest can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Budapest averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Budapest. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Budapest because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Budapest. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Lisbon