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

Should you visit Lisbon or Urbino?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Urbino? 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a authentic, laid back, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Urbino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Lisbon or Urbino?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Urbino are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Urbino and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Urbino is famous for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Lisbon different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice 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, Urbino makes for a great culinary experience. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Music?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a live music destination.


Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Beaches?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is a city with good options for the beach. However, Urbino is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Lisbon. 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Many visitors go to Urbino to see the historical old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Urbino?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Urbino is a great destination for shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.


Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Families?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Couples?

Lisbon
Urbino

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Urbino make for a excellent 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 Urbino frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.


Is Lisbon or Urbino Better for Students?

Lisbon
Urbino

Both Lisbon and Urbino are excellent destinations for 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.

Urbino is very popular with students. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

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

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Lisbon or Urbino a more walkable city?

Lisbon
Urbino

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Urbino?

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

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Urbino. 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 Urbino. 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 Urbino 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.


  • How many days in Lisbon or Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lisbon 3-7 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Lisbon or Urbino?

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 Urbino. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Urbino?

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.

Urbino 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino. 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 Urbino?

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 historic destination of Urbino. 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino or Lisbon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lisbon is €131, while the average daily cost in Urbino is €118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lisbon and Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lisbon 58
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lisbon 116
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Lisbon and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Lisbon or Urbino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lisbon


Hotels in Urbino


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lisbon Hotel Prices and Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lisbon 24
    Urbino 44
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Lisbon

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Lisbon:


  • Taxi Ride
    6.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisbon

Also for Lisbon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lisbon to Seville private transfer one way max 6 persons: $738
  • Full Day Tour - Transfer to Porto from Lisbon with Stops: $722
  • Full Day Tour - Transfer to Algarve from Lisbon with Stops: $668
  • From Private Transfer to Six Senses Douro Valley: $642
  • Lisboa - Porto Private Transfer, with 2 visits on the way: $631
  • One-way Private Transfer to/from Lisbon Airport - Lagos: $588
  • One-way Private Transfer to/from Lisbon Airport - Faro: $588
  • From the Algarve to Lisbon; Guided transfer with extra Wow!: $556
  • To/From the Lisbon Airport: Faro Private Transfer: $535
  • One-way Private Transfer to/from Lisbon Airport - Albufeira: $535
  • One-way Private Transfer to/from Lisbon Airport and Portimão: $535
  • Private Transfer Porto > Lisbon with stop Nazaré & Óbidos: $535

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

Also for Urbino, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Lisbon or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino and Lisbon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lisbon 42
    Urbino 39
Typical Food Prices in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Soirée Rivage - Sunset cruise with dinner and Party: $25
  • Hard Rock Cafe Lisbon with Set Lunch or Dinner : $28
  • Tapas Food Tour: $42
  • Fado Show and Portuguese Dinner: $48
  • Lisbon Food Tour: $53
  • Alfama Tour and Live Fado with Traditional Dinner: $53
  • 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class: $53
  • Legendary Beer Dinner: $53
  • No Diet Club - Unique food tour in Lisbon with many Tastings: $62
  • Original Morning Food Tour: $63
  • Lisbon Tipsy Food Tour with Drinks and Food inlcuded: $70
  • Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lisbon 24
    Urbino 15

Tours and Activities in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Óbidos - Nazaré - Mafra (National Palace of Mafra)Private tour from Lisbon: $217
  • 2-Hour Night Sailing Tour in Lisbon with a Drink: $49
  • Divine Journey : Fatima Full Day Private Tour: $164
  • Lisbon Full Day Small Group City Tour: $71
  • Lisbon by Heart Private Walking Tour: $65
  • Saint George Castle Guided Tour from Lisbon: $34
  • Sintra or Cascais Half-day Private Tour - The real portuguese essence!: $120
  • Street Art Walking Tour in Lisbon - Parque das Nações: $16
  • Évora Private Tour - Cork Factory and Wine Estate Included: $245
  • Évora Tour - Évora Town and Surroundings Private Tour: $243
  • Évora Tour - The heart of Alentejo region: $104
  • Évora Unveiled: A Half-Day Discovery| Premium Private Experience : $109

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lisbon 18
    Urbino 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Lisbon

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lisbon:

  • Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks and VIP Club Entry: $18
  • 1-Hour Portuguese Wine Tasting Session: $20
  • Lisbon Pub Crawl: $21
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar and VIP Club Entry: $21
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar, Shots, & VIP Club Entry: $21
  • Lisbon Wild Pub Crawl : $22
  • Private Bar Crawl in Lisbon: $22
  • Beer Tasting in a Classic Brewery: $27
  • Pub Crawl Lisbon: $27
  • Wine Tasting at Quinta das Murgas: $38
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl with a Local Guide: $42
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl in Lisbon with Local Guide: $43


When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Urbino, 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 Urbino Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Urbino?

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

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 Urbino in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Urbino. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Urbino for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lisbon 23°C (73°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Lisbon or Urbino in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Urbino. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Urbino because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Urbino. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Urbino averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Urbino. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lisbon 19°C (66°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Lisbon or Urbino in the Winter?

Both Urbino and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Urbino this time of year.

It's quite cold in Urbino in the winter. In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Urbino. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Urbino. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lisbon 12°C (53°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Lisbon or Urbino in the Spring?

Both Urbino and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Urbino for the natural beauty.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Urbino in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Urbino fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Urbino. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lisbon 16°C (60°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Lisbon

Lisbon Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)