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

Should you visit Lisbon or Caen?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Caen? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Caen

Caen is a important, historic, and park-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lisbon and Caen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Caen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Caen. Lisbon is bigger than Caen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Caen and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Caen is well known for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

How is Lisbon different from Caen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Lisbon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Caen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.

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

Lisbon is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Caen. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for live music. However, Caen is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is known as a music capital 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.

Caen is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for its beaches. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its historic old town. However, Caen does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in 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.

Caen does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Caen?

Lisbon is renowned for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Families?

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

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Caen. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a very popular place for romance. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Caen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Caen. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

Is Lisbon or Caen Better for Students?

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

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

Caen is not popular with students.

Is Lisbon or Caen 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, Caen 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.

Public transit in Caen can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.

Is Lisbon or Caen a more walkable city?

Lisbon is renowned for its walkability. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

Caen is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Caen or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Caen?

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

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

Lisbon is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Caen?

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Caen 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 Caen?

Lisbon is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

Lisbon is a picturesque city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the park-filled destination of Caen. 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 in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Caen, 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 Caen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Caen?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Caen. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Caen, 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 Caen?

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 Caen in the Summer?

Both Caen 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 Caen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is a little warmer than Caen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Caen averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Caen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Caen during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Caen. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Caen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Caen in the Autumn?

Both Caen 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 city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Caen this time of year.

In October, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Caen. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Caen fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Caen. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 128 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Caen. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Caen receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Caen in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Caen. Lisbon is much warmer than Caen in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Caen fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Caen during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 70 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 Caen. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Caen receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Caen in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Lisbon is much warmer than Caen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Caen averages at about 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Caen. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 171 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Caen. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Caen receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Caen and Lisbon