A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Milan vs. Portland for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Attractions

Should you visit Milan or Portland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Milan and Portland 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.

Milan

Milan is a cultural, trendy, and chic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Milan and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Milan than Portland. Milan is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Milan is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Portland is more touristy than Milan and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Milan is well known for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. Also, Milan is famous for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Milan different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Milan or Portland?

Milan is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in Milan or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milan is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Milan is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Milan is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Music?

Milan is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Milan is known as a music capital around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Milan or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Milan is very popular for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Milan has a world-famous historical area. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Milan is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milan or Portland?

Milan is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Milan. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Families?

Both Milan and Portland are notable to visit with kids.

Milan offers lots of family activities. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Couples?

Milan is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Milan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Milan and Portland are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Students?

Milan is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Is Milan or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Milan is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Milan has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Milan or Portland a more walkable city?

Milan is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

For even more information, also check out Is Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Milan?

How long in Milan or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Milan and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Milan than in Portland. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Portland 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 Milan.

One day in Milan or Portland?

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this eclectic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A weekend in Milan or Portland?

Milan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milan, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Milan or Portland?

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

Portland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Milan or Portland?

Milan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the tree-lined destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Milan and Portland, we can see that Portland 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. Even though Milan is in Europe and Portland is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Milan or Portland?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Milan and Portland, 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 Milan or Portland?

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 Milan or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Portland. The summer months attract visitors to Milan because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Milan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milan usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milan usually receives more rain than Portland. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milan or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Milan as well as Portland. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Milan is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 15°C (58°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Milan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Milan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Milan usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Milan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Milan. Milan is a little warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Milan usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Milan usually receives less rain than Portland. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Milan or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Milan during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Milan in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Milan is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Milan in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Milan often gets less sunshine than Portland. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Milan