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

Should you visit Lisbon or Crete?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Crete? 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.

Crete

Crete is a breathtaking, world-renowned, and scenic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Lisbon and Crete: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Crete?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Crete are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Crete attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Crete is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Many visitors head to Crete specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The island is filled with archeological sites including the famous Palace of Knossos. While most people come to Crete for the natural beauty, in the cities you'll find some great museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Crete 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.

Crete has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Local cuisine is influenced by the island's fertile environment and excellent agriculture. You'll find olive oil in most dishes and seafood is a major staple. You'll also find a lot of stews and recipes that incorporate local ingredients.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Many people head to Crete for the nightlife scene. The island has excellent nightlife with clubs and bars found in Chania, Malia and Stalis to Elounda. The area is popular with British tourists and you'll find many bars open until 2 or 3 in the morning.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Crete is not a live music destination.

In Lisbon you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Crete is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Resorts?

Crete is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Crete is a great choice. The island has world class resorts that include pools and buffet meals. There are many beachfront resorts that range in style from romantic to family-friendly.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Crete is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Crete. The island is surrounded by clear waters that make for great snorkeling and diving. There's a number of beautiful fish and other sea life that you can see. Be on the lookout for crabs, sea stars, sponges, and even octopi.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Beaches?

Crete is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Crete. There are some of the best beaches in the world on Crete. The areas around Chania have some of the island's best beaches, with one of the most beautiful being Balos. On the northern side of the island, be on the lookout for strong winds, particularly in August, which can make for larger waves. The island is large, so you'll find everything from secluded and quiet beaches to more active and lively places.

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.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Crete does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Crete does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Hiking?

Crete is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Crete. The island is filled with beautiful hikes that run along the shoreline or head inland through the island's beautiful landscapes. There are hikes for every ability level that offer spectacular views and an incredible experience.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Crete?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Lisbon is a world class destination for shoppers. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Crete. The island has many markets that sell local foods and handicrafts. There are also shops and boutiques where you can buy anything from souvenirs to homemade artwork.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Families?

Crete 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, Crete is a very family-friendly destination. The island is large and filled with countless family-friendly activities. You can spend several days at the beach, explore Lake Kournas, visit a water park, or even take a pirate themed boat cruise. There's also the amusement park, ​​Labyrinth Park, aquariums and more.

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 Crete Better for Couples?

Crete is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Crete makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance seekers.

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.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Crete 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.

Crete is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a large island with a great social scene and no shortage of hostels for backpackers to choose from.

Is Lisbon or Crete Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Crete 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.

Crete is very popular with students. It's affordability and great coastal activities is a big draw for students in the area.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

While Crete offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.

Is Lisbon or Crete a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Crete is not particularly known 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.

Crete is generally not a very walkable city. The island is large and requires a vehicle to get around, but there are short strolls that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Crete or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Crete?

Both Lisbon and Crete have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lisbon than Crete. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 5-7 days is enough time in Crete.

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

Couples should spend more time in Crete than Lisbon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Crete that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Crete 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 Crete?

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Crete. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Crete?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Crete 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 Crete?

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Crete. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Crete?

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Crete. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Contiki Tours to Greece, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Crete, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Crete much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Crete would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Crete 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 Crete.

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

Which has a larger population, Lisbon or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Crete, 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.