A Travel Price Comparison for Portugal Lisbon vs. Faro for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lisbon or Faro?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Faro? 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 picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Lisbon travel costs.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Faro travel costs.

Lisbon and Faro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Faro?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Faro is more popular for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Lisbon different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Music?

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

Faro is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Faro is a great choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Faro has a few good snorkeling spots. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Faro are notable 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 Faro to enjoy the beach. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its 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.

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Faro?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Lisbon or Faro More Beautiful?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Families?

Lisbon is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination 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.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Couples?

Lisbon is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro is a good city to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Is Lisbon or Faro Better for Students?

Lisbon is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

Lisbon is a great city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Faro is not popular with students.

Is Lisbon or Faro 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, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Lisbon or Faro a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its high level of walkability.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Faro or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Faro?

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

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

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Faro?

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.

Faro 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 Faro?

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 Faro. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Faro?

Lisbon is a colorful 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the busy destination of Faro. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Faro?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Faro, 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 Faro?

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 Faro in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Faro. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Faro in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Faro averages at about 25°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Faro during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 374 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Faro. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Faro receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Faro in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Faro. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Faro for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Faro. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Faro fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Faro. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 222 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Faro in the Winter?

Both Faro and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Faro in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Faro fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lisbon usually receives less sunshine than Faro during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 161 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Faro. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Faro receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Faro in the Spring?

Both Faro and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Faro this time of year.

In the spring, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Faro averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Faro. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 248 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Faro. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Faro receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Faro and Lisbon