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

Should you visit Portimao or Avignon?

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 Avignon. 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 scenic, adventure-filled, and vibrant coastal city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Avignon

Avignon is a quaint, charming, and scenic town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Avignon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Avignon. Although Portimao and Avignon are popular destinations, Avignon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Avignon is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Portimao attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is more touristy than Avignon and is popular for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Avignon is famous for its architectural beauty and historical importance. It is also well known for Palais des Papes.

How is Portimao different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Avignon on the map. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Avignon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

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 Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Portimao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for Resorts?

Portimao is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Avignon is not a resort destination.

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.

Avignon is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Portimao is renowned for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Avignon is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Avignon?

Both Portimao and Avignon 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 Avignon. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for Families?

Portimao is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for Couples?

Portimao is renowned for couples. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Portimao or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Avignon are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

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

Avignon 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.

Avignon has a few public transit options. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles 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 Avignon a more walkable city?

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

It is easy to get around Avignon on foot. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Avignon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Avignon?

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

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

One day in Portimao or Avignon?

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.

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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 Avignon?

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.

Avignon 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 Avignon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Avignon?

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.

Avignon 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 Avignon?

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.

Avignon is a great place to explore. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Avignon?

Avignon has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Avignon in the Summer?

Both Avignon and Portimao during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

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

Portimao usually gets less rain in July than Avignon. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Avignon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Avignon. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Avignon for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

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

Avignon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Portimao usually receives less rain than Avignon. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portimao or Avignon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Avignon. Many travelers come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Avignon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Portimao usually gets more rain in January than Avignon. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Avignon in the Spring?

Both Avignon and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Portimao in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Avignon for the small town charm during these months.

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

In April, Portimao usually receives less rain than Avignon. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Portimao