A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Portland for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Perth or Portland?

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 Perth and Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a easy-going, isolated, and sunny city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Perth and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Portland?

Both Portland and Perth have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Perth is more popular for its museums, food, and beaches, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Perth and is 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. Perth is popular for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Perth 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 Perth. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

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 Perth or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Perth is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

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 Perth or Portland Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Perth and Portland.

If you're looking for night time activities Perth has a few options to choose from. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. 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 Perth or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for live music. However, Perth is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Perth is not a live music destination.

Is Perth or Portland Better for Beaches?

Perth is very popular for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Perth is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Perth or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. 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.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Portland?

If you're looking to go shopping, Perth and Portland both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Perth. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

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 Perth or Portland Better for Families?

Perth 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.

Perth is a very family-friendly destination. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

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 Perth or Portland Better for Couples?

Both Perth and Portland are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Perth is a nice destination for couples. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

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 Perth or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Perth or Portland Better for Students?

For students, both Perth and Portland are good places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Portland is a good city to visit for 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 Perth or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Perth and Portland both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Perth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Perth or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Perth?

How long in Perth or Portland?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Perth 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 Portland.

One day in Perth or Portland?

The city of Perth offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Portland, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this eclectic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Perth or Portland?

Perth 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Perth, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Perth or Portland?

Perth is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Perth or Portland?

Perth is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the scenic destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Perth or Portland?

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Perth is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Portland has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Perth or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Portland. Many travelers come to Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Perth is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 25°C (76°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Perth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Perth usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during summer. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Perth usually receives less rain than Portlandin July. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Perth or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Perth as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Perth in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Perth is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Perth in April average around 19°C (67°F), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Perth this time of the year. In the autumn, Perth often gets more sunshine than Portlandin October. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets less rain in April than Portlandin October. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Perth for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. In July, Perth is generally much warmer than Portlandin January. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 13°C (55°F), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Perth usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. It's quite rainy in Perth. In July, Perth usually receives more rain than Portlandin January. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Perth or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Perth during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Perth because of the beaches. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

Perth is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C)in April.

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Perth. In the spring, Perth often gets more sunshine than Portlandin April. Perth gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Perth usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portlandin April. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Perth