A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portimao vs. Arles for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Portimao or Arles?

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

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Arles?

Both Arles and Portimao have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Portimao is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums, food, and historical sights. Portimao is more touristy than Arles and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Portimao different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portimao or Arles?

Arles is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Arles on the map. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Arles is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its restaurants.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

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 Arles Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Portimao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for Resorts?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arles is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Portimao is a perfect choice. 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.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for Beaches?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Portimao is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Arles?

Both Portimao and Arles are nice shopping destinations.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for Families?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Portimao is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for Couples?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Portimao has plenty to offer. 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.

Arles is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Portimao or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portimao is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Arles 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.

Arles has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

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

Is Portimao or Arles a more walkable city?

Arles is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its walkability.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Portimao is generally not a very walkable coastal city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Portimao or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Portimao than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Portimao, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

Families should spend more time in Portimao than Arles. 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 Arles. 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 Portimao than Arles 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 Portimao.

One day in Portimao or Arles?

In Portimao, many people enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling that this colorful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal 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.

The beautiful town of Arles offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portimao. 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.

Arles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Arles?

Portimao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Portimao. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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.

A week in Portimao or Arles?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic destination of Portimao. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Portugal, The Best Bicycle Tours in Portugal, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Portimao and Arles, we can see that Portimao is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Arles, 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 Arles?

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 Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Arles. Many travelers come to Portimao for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Arles. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Arles. Many visitors come to Portimao in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Portimao is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portimao in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Arles. Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Arles in the Winter?

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

In January, Portimao is generally much warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 11°C (52°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives more rain than Arles. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portimao or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Portimao during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Portimao is a little warmer than Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arles and Portimao