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

Should you visit Lisbon or The Hague?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or The Hague? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a international, bustling, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lisbon and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or The Hague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and The Hague are about the same size, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Lisbon different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Lisbon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

The people in The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for live music. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Lisbon is known as a music capital 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.

The Hague has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for its beaches. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or The Hague?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Families?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Couples?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lisbon. 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 The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Lisbon or The Hague Better for Students?

The Hague 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 The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

The Hague has some very good public transit options. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Is Lisbon or The Hague a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or The Hague?

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

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of The Hague. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or The Hague?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the bustling big city of The Hague. This city 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or The Hague?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of The Hague. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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 The Hague in the Summer?

Both The Hague 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 The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is a little warmer than The Hague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and The Hague averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in The Hague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than The Hague. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to The Hague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Lisbon is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than The Hague. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or The Hague in the Winter?

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

The Hague can be very cold during winter. Lisbon is much warmer than The Hague in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and The Hague fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 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 The Hague. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or The Hague in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Lisbon is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and The Hague averages at about 8°C (46°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 The Hague. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than The Hague. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for The Hague and Lisbon