A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Liverpool vs. Porto for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Liverpool or Porto?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Liverpool and Porto can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. Other reasons to visit include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Liverpool and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Liverpool or Porto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Porto than Liverpool. While Liverpool is larger than Porto, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Liverpool attracts visitors for its theatre productions, music, and shopping. Porto is more touristy than Liverpool and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles."

How is Liverpool different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Porto and Liverpool. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Liverpool or Porto?

Porto is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Theater?

Liverpool is a great port city for theatre. However, Porto is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Porto is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Liverpool or Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Liverpool and Porto.

Liverpool is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

Many people head to Porto for the nightlife scene. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Music?

Liverpool is very popular for live music. However, Porto is not a live music destination.

Liverpool is known as a music capital around the world. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is well known for its old town. However, Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Porto is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Porto?

Liverpool is a great port city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Liverpool. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Families?

Both Liverpool and Porto are superb to visit with kids.

Liverpool is a very kid-friendly port city. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Porto. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Couples?

Porto is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Liverpool is a good port city for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Plenty of backpackers visit Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Students?

Liverpool and Porto are superb places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Liverpool. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Is Liverpool or Porto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Porto is well known for its public transit. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Porto can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

While Liverpool offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Liverpool or Porto a more walkable city?

Liverpool and Porto both are superb when exploring on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable port city.

Porto is a very walkable destination. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

For even more information, also check out Is Liverpool Worth Visiting? and Is Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Porto?

In either Liverpool or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Porto than Liverpool because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Liverpool, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

Families should spend more time in Porto than Liverpool. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Porto, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Porto than Liverpool. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Porto that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Liverpool 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 Porto.

One day in Liverpool or Porto?

In Liverpool, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this historic destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit Porto 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.

A weekend in Liverpool or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Liverpool. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Porto because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Porto?

Liverpool is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the destination of Liverpool. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Liverpool or Porto?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the historic destination of Liverpool. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Liverpool and Porto, we can see that Liverpool is more expensive. And not only is Porto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Porto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Porto 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 Liverpool would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Liverpool than you might in Porto.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Liverpool Expensive? and Is Porto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Porto?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Porto, 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 Liverpool or Porto?

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 Liverpool or Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto and Liverpool during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Liverpool in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Liverpool is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 15°C (60°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Porto. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Liverpool or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Porto. Most visitors come to Liverpool for the shopping scene and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Liverpool is cooler than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Liverpool usually receives less sunshine than Porto during autumn. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Porto. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Liverpool or Porto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Porto. The winter months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In the winter, Liverpool is much colder than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Liverpool in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Porto. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Liverpool usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Liverpool or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Liverpool is generally much colder than Porto. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 8°C (47°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. Liverpool usually receives less sunshine than Porto during spring. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In April, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Porto. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Liverpool