A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portimao vs. Almeria for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Portimao or Almeria?

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 Portimao and Almeria. 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.

Portimao

Portimao is a dramatic, active, and scenic coastal city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Almeria

Almeria is a cultural, historic, and natural region. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Portimao and Almeria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Portimao or Almeria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Almeria. Although Portimao and Almeria are popular destinations, Almeria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Almeria is very popular for its food, historical sights, and hiking, while Portimao attracts visitors for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Portimao is more touristy than Almeria and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Almeria is famous for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. It is also well known for The Alcazaba.

How is Portimao different from Almeria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Portimao or Almeria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Portimao
Almeria

Almeria is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Almeria, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Portimao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many resorts have attached restaurants where visitors often find themselves dining. For a slightly more local vibe, you can check out one of the many restaurants around town. Much of the restaurant scene is centered around the Alvor District where you'll find unique options that serve local dishes mixed in with some international choices. The city is most famous for its grilled sardines, which are considered a local specialty.


Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Nightlife?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Portimao know how to have a good time. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Resorts?

Portimao
Almeria

There are terrific resorts to choose from in both Portimao and Almeria.

Vacationers flock to Portimao for its luxury resorts. The area has all types of resorts, from all-inclusive options to luxury or more family-friendly. Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Almeria is a great choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Portimao. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Beaches?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao and Almeria both offer terrific beaches.

Portimao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Almeria. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for its Old Town?

Portimao
Almeria

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Hiking?

Portimao
Almeria

Almeria is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Portimao is not a hiking destination.

Almeria is a popular spot for hiking. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Portimao is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Almeria?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Portimao to go shopping. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Families?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Portimao is very family-friendly. Kids will love the wide range of activities available near Portimao. They can kayak through caves, see an underwater world snorkeling, learn to surf, visit waterparks, explore nature parks, and more. There are activities that the whole family can enjoy, making this stretch of coastline the perfect option for those traveling with kids.

Almeria is a very family-friendly destination. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Couples?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Portimao is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers unique beaches and stunning outdoor activities. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. There are great restaurants as well as places to relax or activities for thrill seekers.

Almeria is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.


Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao
Almeria

Almeria is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Portimao. Most people think of high end resorts when they think of the Mediterranean coast, but there are a couple of hostels available for backpackers. You should also consider transportation options. While buses are available, many visitors prefer to have access to a car so they can experience the outlying regions. The good news is the area in general is not particularly expensive so you can enjoy a touch of luxury at a lower cost.

Is Portimao or Almeria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portimao
Almeria

Almeria is a good destination for its public transit. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Almeria has a few public transit options. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portimao. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.

Is Portimao or Almeria a more walkable city?

Portimao
Almeria

Portimao and Almeria both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Portimao is generally not very walkable. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable coastal city. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Portimao Worth Visiting? and Is Almeria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Almeria or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Almeria?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Portimao and Almeria. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Portimao than in Almeria. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Portimao, and 1-3 days is enough time in Almeria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Portimao 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 Almeria.


  • How many days in Portimao or Almeria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portimao 2-4 
    Almeria 1-3

One day in Portimao or Almeria?

In Portimao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful region of Almeria offers food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Portimao or Almeria?

In Portimao, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portimao has to offer.

Almeria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this region makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Almeria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Almeria?

Portimao is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Almeria is a popular choice for travelers. 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.


A week in Portimao or Almeria?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portimao. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portimao. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Almeria is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This region offers something for everyone.


Which place is cheaper, Almeria or Portimao?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Portimao is €152, while the average daily cost in Almeria is €99. 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 Portimao and Almeria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portimao 78
    Almeria 44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portimao 156
    Almeria 88
Compare Hotels in Portimao and Almeria

Looking for a hotel in Portimao or Almeria? 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 Portimao


Hotels in Almeria


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: Portimao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portimao 37
    Almeria 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Alvor, Carvoeiro or Portimão Transfer to Faro Airport FAO - Private Vehicle: $60
  • Carvoeiro Private Transfer to Faro Airport: $86
  • Private Airport Transfer To Armação De Pera Area: $117
  • Private Transfer from Algoz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $82
  • Private Transfer from Aljezur to Faro (FAO) Airport: $239
  • Private Transfer from Alvor to Faro (FAO) Airport: $81
  • Private Transfer from Alvor to Faro Airport (1-4 pax): $111
  • Private Transfer from Armaçao de Pera to Faro (FAO) Airport: $55
  • Private Transfer from Carvoeiro to Faro (FAO) Airport: $68
  • Private Transfer from Estombar to Faro (FAO) Airport: $95
  • Private Transfer from Estrada da Galé to Faro (FAO) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer from Ferragudo to Faro (FAO) Airport: $85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $67
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $67
  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $127

Is it cheaper to fly into Portimao or Almeria?

Prices for flights to both Almeria and Portimao 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
    Portimao 45
    Almeria 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portimao

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

  • Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with lunch or dinner at sunset time: $149

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

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

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Private Authentic Spanish Cooking Class with Juan in Almeria: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portimao 41
    Almeria 16

Tours and Activities in Portimao

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

  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunrise Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunset Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 min Tour: $16
  • SUP - Stand Up Paddle Algarve Adventure: $17
  • Sunrise Benagil Full Caves Tour: $19
  • Benagil Cave Sunset Cruise: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunrise Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunset Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 min Tour: $22
  • Express Tour - Benagil Cave: $22
  • From Portimão Early Birds Benagil Tour By Traditional Boat: $24
  • Portimão: Benagil Caves Speedboat Tour: $24

Tours and Activities in Almeria

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

  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.45
  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.62
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.80
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Shelters of Spanish Civil War | Spanish Tour: $12
  • Almería: Cathedral and Monastery of Las Puras Guided Tour: $12
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Fort Bravo Entrance Ticket: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portimao 30
    Almeria 4.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Portimao

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portimao:

  • Wine Tasting and Art Tour: $40
  • Algarve Wine Tasting & Music Experience: $61
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $75
  • Algarve wine tour of 2 wine estates and lunch at the countryside: $156
  • Algarve wine tour and farmer's lunch at wine estate: $185
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $213

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Almeria:

  • Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting in English: $24
  • Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting in Spanish: $24


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

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


Which is Bigger, Portimao or Almeria?

Almeria has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Almeria, 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 Portimao or Almeria?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Portimao or Almeria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Almeria. The summer months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Almeria this time of year.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Almeria in the summer. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Almeria fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives around the same amount of rain as Almeria. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portimao 25°C (78°F) 
    Almeria 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Almeria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Almeria. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Portimao is around the same temperature as Almeria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portimao in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Almeria averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Portimao usually gets more rain in October than Almeria. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Portimao 19°C (67°F) 
    Almeria 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Almeria in the Winter?

Both Almeria and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Almeria in the winter for the cuisine.

In January, Portimao is generally cooler than Almeria. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 11°C (52°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives more rain than Almeria. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portimao 11°C (52°F) 
    Almeria 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Almeria in the Spring?

Both Almeria and Portimao during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Portimao in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Almeria for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Almeria in the spring. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Almeria fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Portimao usually gets more rain in April than Almeria. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portimao 15°C (60°F) 
    Almeria 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Almeria and Portimao

Portimao Almeria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)