A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Sestri Levante for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lisbon or Sestri Levante?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Sestri Levante? 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a scenic, local, and quaint seaside town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

Lisbon and Sestri Levante: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Sestri Levante?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Sestri Levante are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Sestri Levante attracts visitors for its resorts and small town charm. Lisbon is more touristy than Sestri Levante and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Sestri Levante is famous for its two bays and coastal setting.

How is Lisbon different from Sestri Levante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is renowned for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its music scene. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Resorts?

Sestri Levante is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Sestri Levante has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Sestri Levante are nice choices.

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.

Many people head to Sestri Levante to enjoy the beach. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Sestri Levante?

Lisbon is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Families?

Lisbon is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Couples?

Lisbon is great for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante Better for Students?

Lisbon is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not popular with students.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante 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, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town 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.

Sestri Levante has a few public transit options. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

Is Lisbon or Sestri Levante a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Sestri Levante are terrific 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 Sestri Levante on foot is easy. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sestri Levante or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Sestri Levante?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Sestri Levante. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Sestri Levante. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sestri Levante.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Sestri Levante is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Sestri Levante?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Sestri Levante, 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.