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

Should you visit Lisbon or Toulon?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Toulon? 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 colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Toulon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Toulon. Lisbon is bigger than Toulon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lisbon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Lisbon is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Lisbon different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Lisbon that are not to be missed. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Toulon is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. 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.

Toulon is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Lisbon and Toulon are notable 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 Toulon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. 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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Toulon?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Families?

Lisbon is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a mecca for backpackers and 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is Lisbon or Toulon Better for Students?

Lisbon is a well-known place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Lisbon or Toulon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Toulon is a very walkable city. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Toulon?

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

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

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Toulon?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the real world destination of Toulon. This port 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 France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Toulon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lisbon or Toulon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Toulon. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Toulon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Toulon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Toulon. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Toulon. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lisbon is much warmer than Toulon in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Toulon. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Toulon. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lisbon is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Toulon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Toulon. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Lisbon