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

Should you visit London or Porto?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between London and Porto can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a diverse, iconic, and global city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

London and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Porto?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Porto. London is bigger than Porto, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Porto is more popular for its food and historical sights. London is more touristy than Porto and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Porto is well known for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

Big Ben

How is London different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is London or Porto Better for Theater?

London is very popular for theatre. However, Porto is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in London is world-class. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Porto is not a theatre destination.

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

Porto is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is London or Porto Better for Nightlife?

London is very popular for nightlife. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife and partying.

London is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 London or Porto Better for Music?

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

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is London or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is a great port city for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Porto. 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.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Porto?

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

People travel from around the world to go shopping in London. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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

Is London or Porto Better for Christmas?

London is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Porto does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in London. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Porto does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Porto Better for Christmas Markets?

London is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Porto does not offer Christmas markets.

London has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Porto does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Porto Better for Families?

London is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

London is one of the most popular family destinations. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Porto is a very kid-friendly city. 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 London or Porto Better for Couples?

London is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, London has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is London or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both London and Porto are fantastic places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Porto is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Is London or Porto Better for Students?

London is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit London. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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

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

London is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

London has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

Porto has some very good public transit options. 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.

Is London or Porto a more walkable city?

London is very popular for its walkability. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its high level of walkability.

London is a very easy city to get around on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

Porto is a very walkable city. 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 London Worth Visiting? and Is Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or London?

How long in London or Porto?

In either London or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in London than Porto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for London, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

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

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

One day in London or Porto?

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Porto. 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.

A weekend in London or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 London or Porto?

London is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in London or Porto?

Each neighborhood in London has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Porto. This port 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 United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day 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 London and Porto, we can see that London 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 London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London 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 London Expensive? and Is Porto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, London or Porto?

London has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of London 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 London or Porto?

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 London or Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to London because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In the summer, London is cooler than Porto. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Porto averages at about 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. London usually receives less sunshine than Porto during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives more rain than Porto. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Porto in the Autumn?

Both Porto and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to London this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, London is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, London often gets less sunshine than Porto. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. London usually gets less rain in October than Porto. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Porto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Porto. Many travelers come to London for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in London. London is much colder than Porto in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

London usually receives less sunshine than Porto during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, London usually receives less rain than Porto. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Porto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Porto. Many visitors come to London in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, London is cooler than Porto. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Porto averages at about 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. In the spring, London often gets less sunshine than Porto. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. London usually gets less rain in April than Porto. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Porto and London