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

Should you visit Lisbon or Cambridge?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Cambridge? 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.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a charming, historic, and beautiful university town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Cambridge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Cambridge?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Cambridge. Lisbon is bigger than Cambridge, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lisbon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cambridge is more popular for its small town charm. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Cambridge is well known for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it.

How is Lisbon different from Cambridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Cambridge 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 Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a world class 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.

Cambridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Music?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Beaches?

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

Cambridge is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Lisbon can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Cambridge?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Cambridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Families?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge 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 Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Cambridge 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 Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge 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 Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge Better for Students?

Cambridge 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 Cambridge. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

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

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Lisbon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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 Cambridge, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

Is Lisbon or Cambridge a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Cambridge 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 Cambridge on foot is easy. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Cambridge or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Cambridge?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Cambridge to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Cambridge 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 Cambridge.

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

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 Cambridge. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Cambridge?

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.

Cambridge 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 Cambridge?

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 Cambridge. 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 Cambridge?

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 scholarly destination of Cambridge. This university town 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 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Cambridge?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cambridge. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Cambridge, 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.