A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palermo vs. Porto for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Palermo or Porto?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Porto 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a fun, colorful, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Porto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Porto than Palermo. While Palermo is larger than Porto, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Porto is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Also, Porto is famous for Cais da Ribeira. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

How is Palermo different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palermo or Porto?

Porto is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Is the Food Better in Palermo or Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Porto are superb when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Porto has a large number of nightlife venues. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a great city for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Palermo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Porto is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Porto?

Palermo is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Porto are superb to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Porto is a very family-friendly destination. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Couples?

Porto is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Porto is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Students?

Porto is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Is Palermo or Porto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Porto is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Porto. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Porto a more walkable city?

Palermo and Porto both are superb when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

For even more information, also check out Is Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Porto?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Palermo 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 Porto.

One day in Palermo or Porto?

In Palermo, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this colorful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Porto is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Palermo or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Because Porto is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Porto?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Porto?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Porto?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Porto, 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 Palermo or Porto?

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 Palermo or Porto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Porto. Many visitors come to Palermo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Palermo is a little warmer than Porto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Porto averages at about 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Porto. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Porto. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Porto in the Autumn?

Both Porto and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Porto during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Porto. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Palermo during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Palermo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

Palermo is a little warmer than Porto in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Porto. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Porto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Porto. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Palermo is around the same temperature as Porto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Porto averages at about 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Porto during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Porto. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Palermo