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

Should you visit Lisbon or Paris?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Paris? 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 picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic 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 theater, nightlife, and live music.

Lisbon and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Paris?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Lisbon. Paris is bigger than Lisbon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its theatre productions, while Lisbon is more popular for its beaches and historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Lisbon different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Paris and Lisbon.

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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Lisbon is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Lisbon is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Paris 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.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Nightlife?

The first-rate nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Paris.

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.

Paris is a world class party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Music?

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

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.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Paris?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Lisbon and Paris.

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.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Lisbon does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Lisbon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Paris are both first-rate 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.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Lisbon or Paris Better for Students?

Paris 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 Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad 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 Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find first-rate public transit in both Lisbon and Paris.

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.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Lisbon or Paris a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Paris?

Both Lisbon and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Paris than Lisbon. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Lisbon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris 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 Paris?

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the bustling big city of Paris. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Lisbon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Paris. The summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In the summer, Lisbon is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Paris during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Paris. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Paris. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Paris. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Paris. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Lisbon is much warmer than Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Paris during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Paris. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lisbon is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Paris. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Paris. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Lisbon