A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nuremberg vs. Portofino for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nuremberg or Portofino?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nuremberg and Portofino 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a historic, fascinating, and charming city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portofino

Portofino is a opulent, exclusive, and luxurious seaside village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Nuremberg and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portofino than Nuremberg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portofino is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Nuremberg is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Portofino is more touristy than Nuremberg and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. Also, Portofino is famous for its scenic harbor. Nuremberg is well known for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets.

its scenic harbor
Its scenic harbor

How is Nuremberg different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nuremberg or Portofino?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Nuremberg is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Nuremberg are among the most recognizable in the world. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.


Is the Food Better in Nuremberg or Portofino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Portofino is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nuremberg and Portofino.

Nuremberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Many people head to Portofino for the nightlife scene. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Portofino is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Nuremberg is not a resort destination.

Portofino is a world class resort vacation destination. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Nuremberg is not a resort destination.


Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Portofino is a seaside village with good options for the beache. However, Nuremberg is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Portofino. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Nuremberg is not a beach destination.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Nuremberg is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Nuremberg offers plenty to see. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Portofino is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Nuremberg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portofino. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Nuremberg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or Portofino?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portofino and Nuremberg.

Nuremberg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Families?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Nuremberg is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Couples?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Portofino is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Portofino is a great seaside village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

Nuremberg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.


Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Nuremberg is notable for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nuremberg is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Students?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Nuremberg is notable for students. However, Portofino is not popular with students.

Nuremberg is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Portofino is not popular with students.

Is Nuremberg or Portofino Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Nuremberg is notable for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Nuremberg can get you to some places easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.


Is Nuremberg or Portofino a more walkable city?

Nuremberg
Portofino

Portofino is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Portofino on foot is easy. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

Nuremberg is a very walkable destination. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nuremberg Worth Visiting? and Is Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Portofino?

In either Nuremberg or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Nuremberg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Nuremberg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nuremberg than Portofino 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 Nuremberg.


  • How many days in Nuremberg or Portofino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nuremberg 1-3 
    Portofino 2-5

One day in Nuremberg or Portofino?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nuremberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nuremberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Portofino is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Nuremberg or Portofino?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Nuremberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside village has to offer. This seaside village offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nuremberg or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Nuremberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portofino is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside village has to offer.

A week in Nuremberg or Portofino?

Nuremberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Portofino is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Portofino or Nuremberg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nuremberg is €103, while the average daily cost in Portofino is €326. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nuremberg and Portofino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nuremberg 61
    Portofino 190
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nuremberg 122
    Portofino 380
Compare Hotels in Nuremberg and Portofino

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg or Portofino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nuremberg


Hotels in Portofino


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nuremberg Hotel Prices and Portofino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nuremberg 12
    Portofino 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with Beer Museum : $246
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:

  • CAR 3 PAX TRANSFER TO AIRPORT MILANO MALPENSA: $876
  • Portofino hotels to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer - Portofino Cruise Port to Florence Airport(FLR): $158
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Florence hotels: $158
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa Airport(GOA): $49
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa city hotels: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Nuremberg or Portofino?

Prices for flights to both Portofino and Nuremberg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nuremberg 34
    Portofino 118

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nuremberg.

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $267

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portofino

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portofino.

  • Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch: $246

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nuremberg 10
    Portofino 27

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

Here are a few actual costs in Nuremberg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Northern Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.92
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.49
  • Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.45
  • Self-guided tour around the Kaiserburg: $9.52

Tours and Activities in Portofino

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portofino are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino: $42
  • Snorkel Tour in Paraggi Bay: $43
  • Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience: $52
  • Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling: $52
  • Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino: $54
  • Portofino Kayak Tour: $54
  • Coasteering Tour: $74
  • Portofino and San Fruttuoso Boat Experience: $107
  • Portofino Private Walking Tour: $267
  • White Boat Tour Tigullio Portofino: $449
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif of Ligurian goods: $481
  • Private Tour of Genoa and Portofino from Genoa: $713

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nuremberg 16
    Portofino 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Portofino?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 1130 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg and Portofino, 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.