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

Should you visit Munich or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Portland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Munich

Munich is a economically thriving, bustling, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Munich and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Munich or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Munich than Portland. Munich is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Munich is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Munich is well known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. Also, Munich is famous for The Nymphenburg Palace. Portland is well 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.

How is Munich different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich 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 Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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 Munich or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

Munich is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich or Portland Better for Music?

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

Munich is known as a music capital around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

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 Munich or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Munich is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Portland?

Munich 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 Munich. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich or Portland Better for Families?

Munich is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Munich is a very family-friendly destination. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. 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 Munich or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Munich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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 Munich or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 Munich or Portland Better for Students?

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

Munich is a very popular city for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

Munich 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.

Munich has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich or Portland a more walkable city?

Munich and Portland both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

Portland is very walkable. 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 Munich Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Munich?

How long in Munich or Portland?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich 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 Munich.

One day in Munich or Portland?

Munich is a big city with plenty to do. 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 live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Munich or Portland?

Munich 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Munich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland 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 Munich or Portland?

Munich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Munich, 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 Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Munich or Portland?

Munich is a great place to explore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the laid-back destination of Portland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, 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 Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Munich or Portland?

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

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 Munich or Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Munich as well as Portland. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Munich is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Munich in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Munich this time of the year. In the summer, Munich often gets less sunshine than Portland. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Munich is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (52°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Munich usually receives less rain than Portland. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Munich or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Munich during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Munich in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. Munich can get quite cold in the winter. Munich is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Munich averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Munich often gets less sunshine than Portland. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Munich usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Portland. Most visitors come to Munich for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Munich is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Munich in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Munich usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Munich usually receives less rain than Portland. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Munich