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

Should you visit Lisbon or Inverness?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Inverness? 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 colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Inverness

Inverness is a traditional, local, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Inverness: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Inverness?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Inverness are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Inverness is known for its small town charm. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Inverness is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

How is Lisbon different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Inverness can be an interesting and educational experience. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Inverness has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a must-see 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its live music scene. However, Inverness is not a live music destination.

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.

Inverness is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beache. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its old town. However, Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Inverness?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Families?

Lisbon is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Inverness is a family-friendly city. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

Is Lisbon or Inverness Better for Students?

Lisbon is a well-known place for students. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Lisbon or Inverness a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Inverness is a very walkable destination. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Inverness or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Inverness?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Inverness. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Inverness. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Inverness.

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

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Inverness. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Inverness?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Inverness 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 Inverness?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Inverness. 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 London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Inverness?

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

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 Inverness in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Inverness. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Inverness for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Inverness. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 147 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Inverness. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Inverness in the Autumn?

Both Inverness and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, many visitors come to Inverness in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Lisbon is much warmer than Inverness in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Inverness fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Inverness. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Inverness in the Winter?

Both Inverness and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Inverness for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Inverness can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Inverness. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Inverness averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Inverness. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Inverness. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Inverness in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Inverness. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Inverness because of the small town charm.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Inverness. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Inverness. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Inverness and Lisbon