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

Should you visit Lisbon or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Chicago? 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Lisbon and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Lisbon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its theatre productions and christmas markets, while Lisbon attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Lisbon different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Chicago and Lisbon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chicago that are not to be missed. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Lisbon is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Chicago draw crowds from around the world. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Lisbon is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Chicago 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.

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

The world-class nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Chicago.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Chicago is a world class party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Lisbon and Chicago.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Chicago is a world class music destination. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Chicago are nice choices.

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.

Many people head to Chicago to enjoy the beach. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Chicago?

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Lisbon and Chicago.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Chicago is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Lisbon does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Chicago is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Lisbon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Lisbon does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Chicago. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Lisbon does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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 Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Lisbon or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago 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 Chicago. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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

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

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

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.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Is Lisbon or Chicago a more walkable city?

Lisbon is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Chicago?

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

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Lisbon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than Chicago. 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 Chicago 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 Chicago?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Chicago?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chicago is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Chicago?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the edgey big city of Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Chicago?

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

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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Chicago. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Chicago in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Chicago. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Chicago. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Chicago can be very cold during winter. In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago 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 Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Chicago. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Lisbon