A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portimao vs. Cadiz for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Portimao or Cadiz?

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 Cadiz. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a friendly, undiscovered, and historic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Cadiz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Portimao or Cadiz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portimao than Cadiz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portimao is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Portimao is more touristy than Cadiz and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Also, Portimao is famous for Praia da Rocha. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Portimao different from Cadiz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portimao
Cadiz

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Portimao
Cadiz

Cadiz 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 Cadiz area. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

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 Cadiz Better for Nightlife?

Portimao
Cadiz

Portimao is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Portimao offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for Resorts?

Portimao
Cadiz

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

Portimao is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Cadiz is not a resort destination.


Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao
Cadiz

Portimao is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cadiz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Portimao is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Cadiz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for Beaches?

Portimao
Cadiz

Portimao is renowned for its beaches. However, Cadiz is not a good port city for the beache.

Portimao is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for its Old Town?

Portimao
Cadiz

Cadiz is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Cadiz?

Portimao
Cadiz

Cadiz is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cadiz. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portimao. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for Families?

Portimao
Cadiz

Portimao is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Portimao is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. 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.

Cadiz is a family-friendly coastal city. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for Couples?

Portimao
Cadiz

Portimao is renowned for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Portimao is a great coastal city for couples, as it 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.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.


Is Portimao or Cadiz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao
Cadiz

Both Portimao and Cadiz are notable 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 Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

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

Portimao
Cadiz

Cadiz 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.

Cadiz has a few public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

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

Is Portimao or Cadiz a more walkable city?

Portimao
Cadiz

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

Cadiz is a very walkable destination. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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 Cadiz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cadiz or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Cadiz?

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

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


  • How many days in Portimao or Cadiz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portimao 2-4 
    Cadiz 1-2

One day in Portimao or Cadiz?

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 port city of Cadiz 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 Cadiz?

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.

Cadiz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city 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 Cadiz, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Cadiz?

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.

Cadiz 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 Cadiz?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the colorful 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.

Cadiz 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 port city offers something for everyone.


Which place is cheaper, Cadiz or Portimao?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Portimao is €152, while the average daily cost in Cadiz is €152. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Portimao and Cadiz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portimao 78
    Cadiz 77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portimao 156
    Cadiz 154
Compare Hotels in Portimao and Cadiz

Looking for a hotel in Portimao or Cadiz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Portimao


Hotels in Cadiz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Portimao Hotel Prices and Cadiz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portimao 37
    Cadiz 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Transfer Armação de Pêra - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $34
  • Transfer Alvor - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Ferragudo - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Portimão - Alamos Golf (Portimão) Pending: $35
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Alamos Golf (Portimão) : $35
  • Transfer Ferragudo - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $41
  • Transfer Carvoeiro - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $42
  • Transfer Armação de Pêra - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $44
  • Transfer Carvoeiro - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $48
  • Private Transfer from Estrada da Galé to Faro (FAO) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer from Guia to Faro (FAO) Airport: $50
  • Transfer Alvor - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from Cadiz Cruise Port to Cadiz City Hotels: $29
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $29
  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $89
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz Cruise Port to Seville city hotels: $94
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz Cruise Port to Seville Airport (SVQ): $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Portimao or Cadiz?

Prices for flights to both Cadiz and Portimao change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Portimao 45
    Cadiz 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portimao

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portimao.

  • Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with lunch or dinner at sunset time: $149

Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cadiz.

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $40
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $76
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portimao 41
    Cadiz 27

Tours and Activities in Portimao

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portimao are as follows:

  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 min Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunrise Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunset Tour: $16
  • SUP - Stand Up Paddle Algarve Adventure: $17
  • Sunrise Benagil Full Caves Tour: $19
  • Benagil Cave Sunset Cruise: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunset Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunrise Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 min Tour: $22
  • Express Tour - Benagil Cave: $22
  • From Portimão Early Birds Benagil Tour By Traditional Boat: $24
  • Portimão: Benagil Caves Speedboat Tour: $24

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cadiz are as follows:

  • Tour Audioguiado de Cádiz Monumental, a tu ritmo: $4.35
  • Cadiz Town Center Outdoor Escape Game: A Story Adventure: $7.07
  • Story Adventure Outdoor Escape Game in Cadiz Town Center : $7.20
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.53
  • Historical Walking Tour: $11
  • Guided tour of Cádiz: stories from the hand of a local guide: $11
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Discover Cádiz walking tour: $17
  • 2 Hours Tour around Cádiz: History, anecdotes and curiosities: $17
  • Ticket for Visit to the Domecq Palace in Jerez de la Frontera: $17
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Cádiz: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portimao 30
    Cadiz 28

Sample the Local Flavors in Portimao

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portimao:

  • Wine Tasting and Art Tour: $40
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $75
  • Algarve wine tour of 2 wine estates and lunch at the countryside: $156
  • Algarve wine tour and farmer's lunch at wine estate: $185
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $213

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $109


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


Which is Bigger, Portimao or Cadiz?

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

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 Cadiz in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Portimao is around the same temperature as Cadiz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portimao in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Cadiz averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives more rain than Cadiz. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 0 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portimao 25°C (78°F) 
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Cadiz in the Autumn?

Both Cadiz and Portimao during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Portimao because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year.

In October, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 19°C (67°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Portimao usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cadiz. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Portimao 19°C (67°F) 
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Cadiz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Cadiz. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portimao is cooler than Cadiz in the winter. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Cadiz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives more rain than Cadiz. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portimao 11°C (52°F) 
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Cadiz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Cadiz. Many travelers come to Portimao for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cadiz in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Portimao is cooler than Cadiz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portimao in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Cadiz averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Cadiz. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portimao 15°C (60°F) 
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Cadiz and Portimao

Portimao Cadiz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)