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

Should you visit Lisbon or Nice?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Nice? 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.

Nice

Nice is a beautiful, opulent, and trendy seaside destination. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Lisbon and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Nice?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Nice, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Nice is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Nice 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.

Nice has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Nightlife?

The terrific nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Nice.

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.

Nice is a world class party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its live music scene. However, Nice 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.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Nice is a great choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Nice is considered a top beach destination. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

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.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its old town. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Nice?

Lisbon is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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 Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Families?

Lisbon is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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.

Nice is a family-friendly city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Couples?

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

Nice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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 Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Lisbon or Nice Better for Students?

Lisbon is a well-known place for students. However, Nice is not popular with 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.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is renowned for its public transit. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Nice offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are both buses and trams.

Is Lisbon or Nice a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Nice are terrific when it comes to 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.

Getting around Nice on foot is easy. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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

Should I spend more time in Nice or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Nice?

In either Lisbon or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Nice because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Nice. 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 Nice than Lisbon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nice that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Nice 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 Nice?

Lisbon is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Nice. 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.

A weekend in Lisbon or Nice?

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Nice 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.

Five days in Lisbon or Nice?

Lisbon is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

A week in Lisbon or Nice?

Lisbon is a stunning city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the chic destination of Nice. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Nice, we can see that Nice 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 Nice Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Nice?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Nice, 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 Nice?

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 Nice in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Nice. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Nice. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Nice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Nice. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nice in the Autumn?

Both Nice and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Nice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Nice in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Nice fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nice. In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Nice. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nice in the Winter?

Both Nice and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

In the winter, Lisbon is a little warmer than Nice. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Nice averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Nice. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nice in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Nice. 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 Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Nice. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In April, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nice. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nice and Lisbon