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

Should you visit Lisbon or Edinburgh?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Edinburgh? 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a character-filled, vibrant, and gothic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and theater.

Lisbon and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Edinburgh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Lisbon and Edinburgh are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its theatre productions and quaint atmosphere, while Lisbon is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Edinburgh is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music.

How is Lisbon different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh that are not to be missed. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Lisbon is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Lisbon is not a theatre destination.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Lisbon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Music?

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

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.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a city with good options for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Lisbon. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the terrific old towns in both Lisbon and Edinburgh.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. 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.

The rich history of Edinburgh can be explored in its historical center. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Edinburgh?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Edinburgh.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. 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.

Edinburgh is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Edinburgh make for a excellent 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 Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Edinburgh are both terrific 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.

Edinburgh is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Edinburgh are excellent 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.

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Lisbon is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. 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 Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Lisbon or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Edinburgh are terrific 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 Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Edinburgh?

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

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

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 shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

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.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting the gothic destination of Edinburgh. 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 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Edinburgh?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is much warmer than Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Edinburgh in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Edinburgh. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 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 Edinburgh. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Edinburgh. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°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 Edinburgh. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Lisbon