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

Should you visit Lisbon or Zaragoza?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Zaragoza? 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a historical, compact, and authentic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Zaragoza?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Zaragoza and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Zaragoza is famous for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Lisbon different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Music?

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

In Lisbon you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Zaragoza is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Zaragoza?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Lisbon is a world class destination for shoppers. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Lisbon is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is known to be 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly city. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Lisbon is notable for students. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

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

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

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.

Visitors to Zaragoza can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams around the city.

Is Lisbon or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Zaragoza?

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

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

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Zaragoza. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Zaragoza?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zaragoza. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Zaragoza?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Zaragoza. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Zaragoza. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zaragoza in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is cooler than Zaragoza in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Zaragoza. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

Both Zaragoza and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Zaragoza. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Zaragoza. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Zaragoza. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Zaragoza in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Zaragoza. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Lisbon