A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lisbon or Pompeii?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Pompeii? 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums.

Lisbon and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Pompeii are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pompeii is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Lisbon is famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Pompeii 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 Pompeii that are not to be missed. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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

Lisbon is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its music scene. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Pompeii?

Lisbon is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Pompeii.

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.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly place to visit. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii Better for Students?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

Lisbon is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Lisbon or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Pompeii are world-class 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 Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

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

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Pompeii?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Don't miss the museums, 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 Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the ancient destination of Pompeii. This archeological site 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Lisbon or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Pompeii. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Pompeii. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pompeii for the museums during these months.

In January, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Pompeii. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°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 Pompeii. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Lisbon