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

Should you visit Lisbon or Houston?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Houston? 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Houston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Houston. While Houston is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Lisbon different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Lisbon just to party. 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 Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its live music scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Houston?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Houston.

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.

Houston is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Couples?

Lisbon is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lisbon or Houston Better for Students?

Lisbon is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Lisbon or Houston a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Houston. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

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

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Houston. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Houston?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Houston 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 Houston?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the one-of-a-kind big city of Houston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Houston, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Lisbon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Lisbon is in Europe and Houston is in North America, 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 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Houston, 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 Houston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lisbon or Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally cooler than Houston. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Houston. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Houston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Houston. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

Lisbon is cooler than Houston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Houston. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Houston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Houston. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Houston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Houston. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Houston in the Spring?

Both Houston and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Lisbon is generally cooler than Houston. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Houston. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Houston and Lisbon