A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nha Trang vs. Lisbon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nha Trang or Lisbon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Nha Trang and Lisbon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a high energy, coastal, and resort-filled city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Nha Trang travel costs.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See Lisbon travel costs.

Nha Trang and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Nha Trang, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nha Trang is known for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Nha Trang is more touristy than Lisbon and is known for its backpacker-heavy nightlife scene, its long sandy beaches, and its beachside resorts. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Nha Trang different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Lisbon is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nha Trang. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife in the area, there are also several cultural sights worth visiting. Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, and XQ Historical Village are all interesting to visit. If you're looking for a thrill, also nearby is Vinpearl Land.

Is the Food Better in Nha Trang or Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nha Trang area. Seafood is the most common option in many restaurants. You'll find local curries and spring rolls on many menus. Fish sauce is often served with dishes and many recipes have a sweet flavor. If you need a break from Vietnamese food, there are also restaurants that serve pizza, burgers, and other common international dishes.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find amazing options in both Nha Trang and Lisbon.

Nha Trang is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene is varied and caters to all types of travelers. There are glamorous rooftop bars and lounges, beachside parties, and booze cruises that cater to the backpacker crowd. The city is big enough to have options for everyone.

People head to Lisbon just to party. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is very popular for its live music scene. However, Nha Trang is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Nha Trang is not a live music destination.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Resorts?

Nha Trang is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Nha Trang has a few great resort options. There's a mix of budget guesthouses and hostels, luxury beachfront resorts, and everything in between.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nha Trang is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Nha Trang. Snorkeling is a bit tricky here, because you need to visit during the right season and you'll need to hop on a tour to get to the best spots. If you're lucky you'll have good visibility and see some interesting marine life.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Nha Trang and Lisbon both offer good beaches.

Nha Trang offers a nice beach destination. The accessible beaches are very developed and filled with vacationers who are looking for fun activities. The sands are white and soft and the water is comfortable and fun to splash around in.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is very popular for its old town. However, Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a world-famous historical area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Nha Trang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Lisbon is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Many visitors go to Nha Trang to go shopping. There are some local street markets that are fun to explore. There are also the typical shops and supermarkets that sell local produce, souvenirs, and any other essentials that you may have forgotten.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon More Beautiful?

Lisbon is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Nha Trang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lisbon because of it's amazing beauty. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Nha Trang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Families?

Both Nha Trang and Lisbon are superb family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nha Trang is very family-friendly. While it is known among the backpacker crowds for its party scene, there are also great beaches and many activities for families. Vinpearl Land is an amusement park in the area that has rides and shows. There's also Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda, which are both interesting to visit. The beaches also make a great playground for kids who enjoy building sand castles and playing in the shallow water.

Lisbon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Nha Trang and Lisbon both superb destinations for a couple.

Nha Trang is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are several romantic hotels near the beach as well as some interesting cultural activities and beautiful beaches with water activities.

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Nha Trang is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers looking for a party head to the streets around Biệt Thự Street. There are many cheap hostels and guesthouses in the area, and you won't be far from the area's best nightlife.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Students?

Lisbon is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Nha Trang is not popular with students.

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Nha Trang is not popular with students.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Lisbon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Nha Trang has a few public transit options. There are six city bus routes. There are also many taxis and motorbike taxes available for reasonable rates.

Is Nha Trang or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Nha Trang is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Nha Trang is a very walkable destination. The city is compact enough that you can explore many parts on foot. Most of the attractions are near the intersection of Tran Phu and Biet Thu.

For even more information, also check out Is Nha Trang Worth Visiting? and Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Nha Trang?

How long in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Both Nha Trang and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Nha Trang. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nha Trang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Nha Trang 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 Lisbon.

One day in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nha Trang. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Nha Trang is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, 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.

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

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

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Nha Trang. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Vietnam, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nha Trang and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Nha Trang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nha Trang is in Asia and Lisbon is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Nha Trang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nha Trang 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Nha Trang.

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

Which is Bigger, Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Nha Trang. When comparing the sizes of Nha Trang and Lisbon, 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 Nha Trang or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Nha Trang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Lisbon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nha Trang and Lisbon. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Nha Trang year-round. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nha Trang is a little warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nha Trang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Lisbon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Nha Trang usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Nha Trang gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer. January to August in Nha Trang is the dry season. Also, September to December is the rainy season in Nha Trang.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nha Trang as well as Lisbon. Nha Trang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nha Trang is generally a little warmer than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Nha Trang average around 26°C (79°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Nha Trang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nha Trang usually gets more rain in October than Lisbon. Nha Trang gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. September to December in Nha Trang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Lisbon in the Winter?

Both Lisbon and Nha Trang are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Nha Trang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nha Trang is much warmer than Lisbon in the winter. The daily temperature in Nha Trang averages around 24°C (75°F) in January, and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. In January, Nha Trang usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Nha Trang is January to August.

Should I visit Nha Trang or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Nha Trang during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Nha Trang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nha Trang is much warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nha Trang in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Lisbon averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Nha Trang usually gets less rain in April than Lisbon. Nha Trang gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Nha Trang