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

Should you visit Lisbon or Nantes?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Nantes? 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Nantes?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Nantes. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Nantes and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Nantes is famous for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Lisbon different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Nantes 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.

Nantes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Nantes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Music?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Nantes is not a live music destination.

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.

Nantes is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Beaches?

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

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Nantes?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Nantes is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Nantes.

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.

Nantes is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Nantes 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 Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Lisbon or Nantes Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Lisbon is a great city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Is Lisbon or Nantes 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, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Visitors to Nantes can move around easily with public transportation. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Is Lisbon or Nantes a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Nantes?

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nantes. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Nantes?

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.

Nantes is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Nantes?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Nantes. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Nantes, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Nantes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nantes would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nantes 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Nantes.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Nantes?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Nantes in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Nantes. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Nantes. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Nantes. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Nantes averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nantes. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nantes in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Nantes. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nantes because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 72 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 Nantes. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nantes in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Nantes. 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 Nantes this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Nantes in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°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 Nantes. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Nantes. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nantes and Lisbon