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

Should you visit Lisbon or Munich?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Munich? 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Munich

Munich is a economically thriving, bustling, and high energy 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 Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Munich?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Munich. While Munich is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Munich is famous for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles.

How is Lisbon different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Nightlife?

The fantastic nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Munich.

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.

Munich is a world class party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Lisbon and Munich.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Munich is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Lisbon can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Munich?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Lisbon and Munich.

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.

Munich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Munich.

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.

Munich is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Munich make for a very good 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 Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Munich 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.

Munich is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Is Lisbon or Munich Better for Students?

Munich 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 Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

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

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Lisbon and Munich.

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.

Munich has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Is Lisbon or Munich a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Munich is very walkable. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Munich?

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

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

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Munich?

Lisbon 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.

Munich 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 Munich?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Munich?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the multicultural big city of Munich. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Munich, we can see that Munich is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Munich, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Munich. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Munich. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Munich in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Munich. 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. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Lisbon is much warmer than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Munich during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Munich. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Munich in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Munich. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Munich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Munich can be very cold. In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Munich. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Munich. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Munich. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Munich in the Spring?

Both Munich and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Munich during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Munich. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Munich and Lisbon