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

Should you visit Lisbon or Nashville?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Nashville? 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.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and museums.

Lisbon and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Nashville?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Nashville, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nashville is more popular for its resorts. Lisbon is more touristy than Nashville and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues.

How is Lisbon different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Nashville offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

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

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

Many restaurants in Lisbon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nashville. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Nashville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Music?

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

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.

Nashville is a world class music destination. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Nashville is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Nashville has a few great resort options. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Nashville is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Lisbon. 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.

Nashville is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for its Old Town?

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

Nashville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Nashville?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Nashville is a popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Lisbon does not offer Christmas activities.

Nashville worth visiting during the Christmas season. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Lisbon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Families?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nashville 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Is Lisbon or Nashville Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Nashville is a decent spot for students. Several universities bring in international students, but the city is smaller and it isn't the most popular student destination in America.

Is Lisbon or Nashville 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. However, Nashville is lacking in good options 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Lisbon or Nashville a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options 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.

Nashville is not a walkable city. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Nashville?

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

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

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 Nashville. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Nashville?

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.

Nashville is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, 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 Nashville?

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 Nashville. Don't miss the live music, 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 Nashville?

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 food and museums when visiting the country music lovers destination of Nashville. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Nashville, 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 Nashville?

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 Nashville in the Summer?

Both Nashville and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Nashville for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Lisbon is cooler than Nashville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Nashville averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Nashville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Nashville during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Nashville. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nashville in the Autumn?

Both Nashville and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Nashville because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 212 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Nashville. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nashville in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Nashville. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nashville this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nashville in the winter. Lisbon is much warmer than Nashville in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 134 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 Nashville. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nashville in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Nashville. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nashville for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Nashville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nashville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nashville. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 234 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nashville. Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Nashville. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nashville and Lisbon