A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Versailles for Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Lisbon or Versailles?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Versailles? 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Versailles

Versailles is a beautiful, grand, and ornate palace. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums.

Lisbon and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Versailles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Versailles. Lisbon is bigger than Versailles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Versailles is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its long running history and its grand architecture. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Versailles and Lisbon.

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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Versailles that are not to be missed. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Versailles is not a live music destination.

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.

Versailles is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Versailles is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Versailles is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Versailles?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Families?

Lisbon is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Versailles make for a very good 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 Versailles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lisbon or Versailles Better for Students?

Lisbon is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not popular with students.

Lisbon is a great city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Versailles is not popular with students.

Is Lisbon or Versailles 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, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace 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 in Versailles can get you to some places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

Is Lisbon or Versailles a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its high level of 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.

Versailles is a very walkable city. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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

Should I spend more time in Versailles or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Versailles?

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

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

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Lisbon or Versailles?

When visiting Lisbon, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Versailles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Versailles?

Lisbon, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Versailles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Versailles?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the extensive destination of Versailles. This palace 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Versailles?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Versailles. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is a little warmer than Versailles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Versailles averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Versailles this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Versailles during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Versailles. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Versailles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Versailles. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Versailles for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Versailles. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Versailles in the Winter?

Both Versailles and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Versailles because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Versailles can be very cold. Lisbon is much warmer than Versailles in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Versailles fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Versailles during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Versailles. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Versailles in the Spring?

Both Versailles and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Versailles this time of year.

In the spring, Lisbon is a little warmer than Versailles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Versailles averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Versailles. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Versailles and Lisbon