A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Fez for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lisbon or Fez?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Fez? 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.

Fez

Fez is a busy, colorful, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Lisbon and Fez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Fez?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Fez. While Fez is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Fez and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Fez is popular for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes.

How is Lisbon different from Fez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Fez 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 Fez that are not to be missed. Tucked into the medina are ancient mosques, historic universities, and beautiful gardens. Highlights of the city include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha (a palace and museum), and Medersa Bou Inania (a former theological college). Another not to be missed sight is the tanneries. You'll likely smell them before you see them, but the history is truly impressive.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Fez 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.

Fez has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Some of the best food in Morocco can be found in Fez. Head away from the main gates and the major tourist routes to find more local restaurants. Every visitor must try tagine. It's not actually a recipe but instead a cooking pot and technique. If you order a tagine, you'll enjoy a stew like dish that's slow cooked and usually made with lamb or chicken although vegetarian options are often available. Other dishes to try include couscous and pastilla. Pastilla is a pastry covered chicken dish that is seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fez. It's a conservative city and the nightlife reflects that. You'll find some bars in the major hotel chains and you can often find alcohol at the more expensive restaurants.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Music?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Fez is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. 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.

Fez is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a city with good options for the beache. However, Fez 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.

Fez is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for its Old Town?

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

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 Fez can be explored in its historical center. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Fez?

Shoppers can find a variety of terrific stores in both Lisbon and Fez.

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.

Fez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the medina and try your hand at negotiating. There are impressive art shops and hidden gems spread between more touristy shops selling souvenir trinkets.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Families?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lisbon is very family-friendly. 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 Fez. Kids will enjoy wandering the medina, sampling Moroccan dishes, and trying their hand at bartering for a good price. There are several gardens that offer a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets. There's also baklava and other sweet treats that kids can taste. Many kids enjoy taking a tour to the nearby countryside where they can feed monkeys, hike, and visit local villages.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Fez 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 Fez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Fez 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.

Fez is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Prices are very affordable and there are riads that range in price and style. Many restaurants cater to different budgets and most of the entertainment involves wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Lisbon or Fez Better for Students?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Fez is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Fez is not popular with students.

Is Lisbon or Fez 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. However, Fez is lacking in options 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Fez. There's a basic public transportation system with buses and a train station, but you'll likely need to take taxis if you can't walk to a destination. Taxis are affordable and abundant.

Is Lisbon or Fez a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Fez is a very walkable destination. The medina can be explored on foot, but it's easy to get lost so allow a lot of time. There are several walking routes through the medina that are marked with colors but you'll likely find yourself wandering on and off the routes as you explore. Outside of the medina, you'll likely want to take a taxi.

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

Should I spend more time in Fez or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Fez?

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

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

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Fez. 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 Fez?

Many people visit Lisbon for a weekend. When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Fez 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 Fez?

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

Lisbon, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Visiting the old town is also a must. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the busy big city of Fez. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Fez?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Fez, 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.