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

Should you visit Liverpool or Portofino?

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 Portofino 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 fun-filled, diverse, and historic port city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and theater.

Portofino

Portofino is a opulent, exclusive, and luxurious seaside village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Liverpool and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portofino than Liverpool, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portofino is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Liverpool is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, and music. Portofino is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. Also, Portofino is famous for its scenic harbor. Liverpool is well known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles."

its scenic harbor
Its scenic harbor

How is Liverpool different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

Liverpool offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.


Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is notable for its theatre productions. However, Portofino is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Liverpool. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Portofino is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Portofino

Portofino is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

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 Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Portofino

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

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 Portofino for the nightlife scene. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.


Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Music?

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Portofino is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Liverpool Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Portofino is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Liverpool
Portofino

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Liverpool is not a resort destination.

Portofino is a world class resort vacation destination. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Liverpool is not a resort destination.

Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Liverpool
Portofino

Portofino is a seaside village with good options for the beache. However, Liverpool is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Portofino. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Liverpool is not a beach destination.


Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Liverpool
Portofino

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

Portofino is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Liverpool
Portofino

Portofino is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portofino. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Portofino?

Liverpool
Portofino

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portofino and Liverpool.

Liverpool is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.


Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Families?

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Portofino

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Portofino is a great seaside village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

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 Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.


Is Liverpool or Portofino Better for Students?

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is notable for students. However, Portofino is not popular with students.

Liverpool is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Portofino is not popular with students.

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

Liverpool
Portofino

Liverpool is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Liverpool has a few public transit options. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Liverpool or Portofino a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Portofino

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Portofino on foot is easy. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Portofino?

In either Liverpool or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino 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 Portofino.

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

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


  • How many days in Liverpool or Portofino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Liverpool 2-3 
    Portofino 2-5

One day in Liverpool or Portofino?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Liverpool. 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.

Even though Portofino is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Portofino?

You'll find live music and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Liverpool. 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.

Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside village has to offer. This seaside village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled port city of Liverpool. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portofino is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside village has to offer.


A week in Liverpool or Portofino?

Liverpool is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Portofino is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Portofino or Liverpool?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Liverpool is £161, while the average daily cost in Portofino is £279. 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 Liverpool and Portofino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Portofino £162
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Portofino £324
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Portofino

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Portofino? 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 Liverpool


Hotels in Portofino


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: Liverpool Hotel Prices and Portofino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Portofino £20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liverpool

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Liverpool:


  • City bike hire Liverpool
    £6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liverpool

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liverpool:

  • BUS Transfer to/from John Lennon Airport: $5.75
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Liverpool: $6.86
  • Liverpool Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Accommodation: $41
  • Liverpool to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Liverpool Cruise Port to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Liverpool Airport Transfer 1 to 10 Passengers One Way Transfer : $44
  • Private Departure Transfer from Liverpool City Center to Liverpool Airport (LPL): $47
  • Private Liverpool Departure Transfer - Liverpool Hotel / Accomm To Airport: $50
  • Private Liverpool Arrival Transfer:Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Hotel/Accomm: $50
  • Private Transfer from Stockton Heath to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Private Transfer from Knutsford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Liverpool Airport LPL in Business Car: $65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:

  • CAR 3 PAX TRANSFER TO AIRPORT MILANO MALPENSA: $876
  • Portofino hotels to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer - Portofino Cruise Port to Florence Airport(FLR): $158
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Florence hotels: $158
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa Airport(GOA): $49
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa city hotels: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Portofino?

Prices for flights to both Portofino and Liverpool 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
    Liverpool £59
    Portofino £101

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Liverpool

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Liverpool.

  • Brewery Bus Tour with Beer Tasting and Pizza: $81
  • Brewery bus tour, 5 breweries, 12 beers, 1 pizza, 1 bus: $89
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $100

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portofino

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portofino.

  • Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch: $246

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Portofino £23

Tours and Activities in Liverpool

Here are a few actual costs in Liverpool for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Liverpool Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.27
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • A Hope Street Stroll: A self-guided tour from the Metropolitan Cathedral to LIPA: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Liverpool History and Culture: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the River Mersey: $6.99
  • Liverpool’s Hidden Histories: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Discover Liverpool’s Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.56
  • Discover Liverpool’s Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.59
  • Albert Docks Sightseeing Cruise with Commentary: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Portofino

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portofino are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino: $42
  • Snorkel Tour in Paraggi Bay: $43
  • Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience: $52
  • Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling: $52
  • Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino: $54
  • Portofino Kayak Tour: $54
  • Coasteering Tour: $74
  • Portofino and San Fruttuoso Boat Experience: $107
  • Portofino Private Walking Tour: $267
  • White Boat Tour Tigullio Portofino: $449
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif of Ligurian goods: $481
  • Private Tour of Genoa and Portofino from Genoa: $713

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Portofino £14

Sample the Local Flavors in Liverpool

Also in Liverpool, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • FunnyBoyz Liverpool - Drag Shows, Tributes, Brunches & Bar Crawls: $19
  • Liverpool Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $50
  • Pirate Pub Crawl & Boat Tour: $56


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

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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Portofino?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 890 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Portofino, 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.