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

Should you visit Lisbon or Ravenna?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Ravenna? 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a off-the-beaten-path, charming, and authentic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Ravenna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Ravenna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ravenna is known for its small town charm. Lisbon is more touristy than Ravenna and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Ravenna is popular for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Lisbon different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Ravenna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in Ravenna is an experience not to be missed. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a world class party destination. 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.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Music?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Ravenna is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Ravenna is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beache. However, Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Lisbon can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Ravenna?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Many visitors go to Ravenna to go shopping. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Ravenna.

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.

Ravenna is a very family-friendly place to visit. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Ravenna make for a superb place to visit.

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.

Couples visit Ravenna frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. 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 budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna Better for Students?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Ravenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Ravenna is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Lisbon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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 Ravenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

Is Lisbon or Ravenna a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Ravenna?

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

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

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.

Ravenna might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

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 Ravenna. 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Ravenna, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Ravenna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ravenna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ravenna 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Ravenna.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lisbon Expensive? and Is Ravenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Ravenna?

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

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Ravenna. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Ravenna in the Autumn?

Both Ravenna and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Ravenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Ravenna fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Ravenna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ravenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ravenna. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Ravenna averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Ravenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Ravenna. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ravenna in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Ravenna. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Lisbon