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

Should you visit Portimao or Caltagirone?

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 Caltagirone. 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. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a friendly, charming, and quaint city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Caltagirone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Caltagirone?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Portimao. Although Portimao and Caltagirone are popular destinations, Portimao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Portimao is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Caltagirone attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Portimao is more touristy than Caltagirone and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. It is also well known for Praia da Rocha. Caltagirone is famous for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase.

How is Portimao different from Caltagirone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone area. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

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 Caltagirone Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is well known for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

Portimao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Portimao or Caltagirone Better for Resorts?

Portimao is terrific for its resorts. However, Caltagirone 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.

Caltagirone is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Caltagirone Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Caltagirone 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.

Caltagirone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Caltagirone Better for Beaches?

Portimao is terrific for the beach. However, Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

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.

Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Caltagirone Better for its Old Town?

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

Caltagirone offers a nice historic old town area. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Caltagirone?

Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

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 Caltagirone Better for Families?

Portimao is terrific for its family-friendly activities. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known 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.

For families, Caltagirone is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

Is Portimao or Caltagirone Better for Couples?

Portimao is terrific for couples. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Caltagirone is a nice destination for couples. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.

Is Portimao or Caltagirone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao is a coastal city with good options for backpackers. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portimao is a good coastal city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

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

Caltagirone 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.

Caltagirone has a few public transit options. Buses travel in and out of 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 Caltagirone a more walkable city?

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

Caltagirone is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose 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 Caltagirone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Caltagirone or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Caltagirone?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the dramatic coastal city of Portimao. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Caltagirone offers food and shopping. 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 Caltagirone?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Portimao. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Five days in Portimao or Caltagirone?

The colorful coastal city of Portimao offers shopping and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Portimao. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Caltagirone 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Caltagirone?

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

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 Caltagirone in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Caltagirone. Most visitors come to Portimao for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Caltagirone because of the family-friendly experiences.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Caltagirone in the summer. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Caltagirone fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Caltagirone. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Caltagirone in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Caltagirone. 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 Caltagirone this time of year.

In the autumn, Portimao is around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portimao in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Caltagirone averages at about 19°C (67°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Caltagirone. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Caltagirone in the Winter?

Both Caltagirone and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Caltagirone for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 11°C (52°F), and Caltagirone fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

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

Should I visit Portimao or Caltagirone in the Spring?

Both Caltagirone and Portimao during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Portimao for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Caltagirone in the spring for the natural beauty.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Caltagirone in the spring. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Caltagirone fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Portimao usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Caltagirone. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Caltagirone and Portimao