A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

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 Nantucket and Portland, Maine can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Nantucket and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Portland, Maine, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Nantucket different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Nantucket is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nantucket. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Nantucket or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Nantucket and Portland, Maine.

If you're looking for night time activities Nantucket has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland, Maine. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is well known for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Nantucket is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Nantucket and Portland, Maine are great choices for a beach vacation.

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Portland, Maine. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Nantucket is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is adequate for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Nantucket is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nantucket is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

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

Nantucket is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Nantucket or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Nantucket is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable island. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nantucket and Portland, Maine. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nantucket than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland, Maine.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Portland, Maine 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 Nantucket.

One day in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal town of Portland, Maine. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the seaside destination of Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket and Portland, Maine, 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 Nantucket or Portland, Maine?

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 Nantucket or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nantucket is generally around the same temperature as Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 68°F (20°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Nantucket usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

Nantucket is a little warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In October, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nantucket or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Nantucket during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland, Maine. It's quite cold in Nantucket in the winter. In the winter, Nantucket is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantucket in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets more rain in January than Portland, Maine. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Portland, Maine. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Nantucket is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 45°F (7°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Nantucket