A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Interlaken for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lisbon or Interlaken?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Interlaken? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adrenaline-filled, breathtaking, and world-class town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and food.

Lisbon and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Interlaken?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Interlaken, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Interlaken and Lisbon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Lisbon is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Lisbon is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Interlaken?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for live music. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for its beaches. However, Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. 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.

Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

People visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Interlaken?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Families?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Interlaken is a very family-friendly destination. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Couples?

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

Interlaken makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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 Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken Better for Students?

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

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

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Is Lisbon or Interlaken a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Interlaken?

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

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than Interlaken. 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken?

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Interlaken?

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Interlaken?

Lisbon, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Interlaken?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Interlaken. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Interlaken?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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 Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Interlaken. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Interlaken averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Interlaken. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Interlaken in the Autumn?

Both Interlaken and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Interlaken in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Interlaken. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Interlaken. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine during these months.

Interlaken can be very cold during winter. Lisbon is much warmer than Interlaken in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Interlaken fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 55 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 Interlaken. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Interlaken in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Interlaken. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lisbon is a little warmer than Interlaken. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Interlaken averages at about 12°C (53°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 Interlaken. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Interlaken. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Lisbon