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

Should you visit Lisbon or Nottingham?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Nottingham? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a livable, cultural, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Nottingham: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Nottingham?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Nottingham. Lisbon is bigger than Nottingham, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine.

How is Lisbon different from Nottingham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

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

Lisbon is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is very popular for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Music?

Lisbon is very popular for live music. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its live music scene.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. 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.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is very popular for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a world-famous historical 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.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Nottingham?

Lisbon is very popular for shopping. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Families?

Lisbon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Couples?

Lisbon is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is very popular for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Lisbon is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham Better for Students?

Lisbon is well known for students. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is very popular for its public transit. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit in Nottingham can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Is Lisbon or Nottingham a more walkable city?

Lisbon is very popular for its walkability. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of 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.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Nottingham or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Nottingham?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Nottingham to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Nottingham because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Nottingham.

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

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 destination of Nottingham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Nottingham?

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Nottingham 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 Nottingham?

Lisbon, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the livable destination of Nottingham. 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 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Nottingham?

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

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 Nottingham in the Summer?

Both Nottingham and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Lisbon is a little warmer than Nottingham. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Nottingham averages at about 16°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Nottingham. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 196 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Nottingham. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nottingham in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Nottingham. 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 Nottingham because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Nottingham. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Nottingham fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Nottingham during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Nottingham. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nottingham in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Nottingham. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nottingham in the winter. Lisbon is much warmer than Nottingham in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Nottingham fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Nottingham. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 61 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Nottingham. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Nottingham in the Spring?

Both Nottingham and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. 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 Nottingham for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lisbon is much warmer than Nottingham. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Nottingham averages at about 8°C (46°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Nottingham during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 151 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Nottingham. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nottingham and Lisbon