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

Should you visit Portimao or Auxerre?

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 Auxerre. 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 adventure-filled, vibrant, and colorful coastal city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a undiscovered, authentic, and under-rated town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Portimao and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Auxerre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Portimao. Although Portimao and Auxerre are popular destinations, Portimao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Portimao is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Portimao is more touristy than Auxerre and is popular for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. It is also well known for Praia da Rocha. Auxerre is famous for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Portimao different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

Auxerre is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Auxerre. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Auxerre area. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

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 Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Portimao for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Portimao or Auxerre Better for Resorts?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Auxerre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Auxerre Better for Beaches?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Auxerre?

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

Portimao has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Portimao or Auxerre Better for Families?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-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.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Portimao or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Portimao or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Auxerre 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.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around 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 Auxerre a more walkable city?

Auxerre is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its walkability.

Auxerre is a somewhat walkable town. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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 Auxerre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Portimao or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Portimao than Auxerre 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 Auxerre.

Families should spend more time in Portimao than Auxerre. 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 Auxerre. 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 Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

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 town of Auxerre offers museums and food. 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 Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auxerre, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre is a great place to explore. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Portimao and Auxerre, we can see that Portimao is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre 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 Auxerre.

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Auxerre?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Portimao or Auxerre in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Auxerre. Many travelers come to Portimao for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Auxerre in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Portimao is a little warmer than Auxerre in the summer. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Auxerre fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in July than Auxerre. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Auxerre in the Autumn?

Both Auxerre and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Portimao in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Portimao is a little warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portimao in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Auxerre averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In October, Portimao usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portimao or Auxerre in the Winter?

Both Auxerre and Portimao during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Auxerre can be very cold. In January, Portimao is generally much warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 11°C (52°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Portimao usually gets more rain in January than Auxerre. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Auxerre in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Auxerre. The spring months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

Portimao is much warmer than Auxerre in the spring. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Auxerre fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In April, Portimao usually receives less rain than Auxerre. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Portimao