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

Should you visit Portimao or Beaune?

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 Beaune. 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 active, scenic, and adventure-filled coastal city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Beaune

Beaune is a culinary, quaint, and vineyard-filled town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Beaune: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Beaune?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaune. Although Portimao and Beaune are both popular with visitors, Beaune has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaune is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Portimao is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is more touristy than Beaune and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Beaune is popular for its surrounding vineyards and world-renowned wines. It is also home to The Surrounding Vineyards.

How is Portimao different from Beaune?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaune is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Beaune. Top sights and museums around town include Hôtel-Dieu (a former hospital), Château de Savigny, and Château de la Rochepot.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Beaune, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

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 Beaune Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Beaune has a few options to choose from. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for Resorts?

Portimao is terrific for its resorts. However, Beaune 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.

Beaune is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Beaune 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.

Beaune is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for Beaches?

Portimao is terrific for the beache. However, Beaune 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.

Beaune is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Beaune is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Beaune?

Both Portimao and Beaune are good 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 Beaune. Boutiques, wine shops, and independent vendors are fun to explore in town.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for Families?

Portimao is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beaune 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.

Beaune offers lots of family activities. The town has museums like Hospices de Beaune, Hotel-Dieu (a formal hospital), as well as vineyards that you can hike through. Many people enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride while they're in the region.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for Couples?

Portimao and Beaune both terrific destinations for a couple.

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.

Beaune makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring vineyards, sipping French wine, and wandering through the charming old town. There are breathtaking hot air balloon rides and wonderful French restaurants that make for a romantic trip.

Is Portimao or Beaune Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao is a good destination for backpackers. However, Beaune is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Beaune is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a charming town, but it's not on many backpacker's itineraries. There are also a limited number of hostels to choose from.

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

Beaune 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.

Beaune has a few public transit options. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

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

Is Portimao or Beaune a more walkable city?

Beaune 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 Beaune on foot. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

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 Beaune Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaune or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Beaune?

It's fun to spend time in either Portimao or Beaune. In our opinion, Portimao has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Portimao than Beaune. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portimao than Beaune 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 Beaune?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Portimao. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The town of Beaune offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

A weekend in Portimao or Beaune?

Portimao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Portimao or Beaune?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portimao. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Beaune is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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 Beaune?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the colorful destination of Portimao. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Beaune is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Portimao and Beaune, we can see that Beaune 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 Beaune Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Beaune?

Portimao has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Beaune. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Beaune, 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 Beaune?

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 Beaune in the Summer?

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

In July, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Beaune. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 25°C (78°F), and Beaune fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Beaune. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Beaune in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Beaune. 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 Beaune for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Portimao is a little warmer than Beaune in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Beaune fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Portimao usually gets more rain in October than Beaune. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Beaune in the Winter?

Both Beaune 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 Beaune in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beaune can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Portimao is much warmer than Beaune. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portimao in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Beaune averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives more rain than Beaune. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portimao or Beaune in the Spring?

Both Beaune 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 Beaune for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Beaune. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 15°C (60°F), and Beaune fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Beaune. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beaune and Portimao