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

Should you visit Portimao or Bergamo?

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 Bergamo. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a under-rated, historical, and fascinating city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Bergamo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portimao. Although Portimao and Bergamo are both popular with visitors, Portimao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portimao is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bergamo is known for its museums, food, and historical sights. Portimao is more touristy than Bergamo and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. It is also home to Praia da Rocha. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Portimao different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bergamo 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 Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bergamo 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 Bergamo is an experience not to be missed. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

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 Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Portimao has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Resorts?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its resorts. However, Bergamo is not a resort destination.

Portimao offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Bergamo is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Portimao to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Portimao are among the best in 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.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Bergamo is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Bergamo offers a nice historic old town area. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Bergamo?

Both Portimao and Bergamo 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 Bergamo. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Families?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Portimao is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Portimao is an amazing coastal city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Portimao has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Bergamo is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Bergamo are good 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 Bergamo. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Portimao or Bergamo Better for Students?

Bergamo is a good destination for students. However, Portimao is not popular with students.

Bergamo is a good city to visit for students. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Portimao is not popular with students.

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

Bergamo 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.

Bergamo has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

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

Is Portimao or Bergamo a more walkable city?

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

Bergamo is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is 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 Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Bergamo?

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

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

One day in Portimao or Bergamo?

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 city of Bergamo offers food and shopping. 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 Bergamo?

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.

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

Five days in Portimao or Bergamo?

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.

Bergamo 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 Bergamo?

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.

Bergamo 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 city 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 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Bergamo, 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 Bergamo?

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 Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Portimao in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bergamo for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 25°C (78°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Bergamo in the Autumn?

Both Bergamo and Portimao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Portimao is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Bergamo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Bergamo. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Bergamo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Bergamo. The winter months attract visitors to Portimao because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bergamo in the winter. In the winter, Portimao is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portimao in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives more rain than Bergamo. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portimao or Bergamo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Bergamo. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bergamo for the natural beauty.

In April, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 15°C (60°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Bergamo. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Portimao