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

Should you visit Lisbon or San Remo?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or San Remo? 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.

San Remo

San Remo is a relaxing, beautiful, and scenic coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Lisbon and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or San Remo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than San Remo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Remo attracts visitors for its beaches. Lisbon is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. San Remo is famous for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Lisbon different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is terrific for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its restaurants. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Lisbon is a must-see 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its music scene. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Beaches?

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

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

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 San Remo Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or San Remo?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or San Remo.

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.

San Remo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and San Remo make for a high quality 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 San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Lisbon or San Remo Better for Students?

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

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

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. 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 San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Lisbon or San Remo a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

San Remo is very walkable. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or San Remo?

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

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than San Remo. 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 San Remo. 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 San Remo 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 San Remo?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Remo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or San Remo?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

San Remo 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 San Remo?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Remo. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 San Remo?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of San Remo. This coastal city 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and San Remo, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or San Remo?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

Both San Remo and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in San Remo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than San Remo. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or San Remo in the Autumn?

Both San Remo and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 San Remo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun.

San Remo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than San Remo. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or San Remo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and San Remo. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Remo in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than San Remo. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than San Remo. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or San Remo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as San Remo. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Lisbon is a little warmer than San Remo in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and San Remo fluctuates around 13°C (56°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 San Remo. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as San Remo. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Lisbon