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

Should you visit Lisbon or Florence?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Florence? 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Florence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Florence is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Florence 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 Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Florence 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.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for Music?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the fantastic old towns in both Lisbon and Florence.

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 Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Florence?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for Families?

Lisbon is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Florence are both fantastic 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.

Florence is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is Lisbon or Florence Better for Students?

Florence 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 Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Lisbon or Florence a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Florence are fantastic 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Florence?

Both Lisbon and Florence 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 Florence. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence 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 Florence?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Florence?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

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

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Florence during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Florence. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Florence. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Florence. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence 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 Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Florence. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence 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. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Florence. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Lisbon