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

Should you visit Portimao or Dijon?

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

Dijon

Dijon is a culinary, relaxing, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Dijon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dijon than Portimao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dijon is better known for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Portimao is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is more touristy than Dijon and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Dijon is well known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards. Also, Dijon is famous for The Ducal Palace.

How is Portimao different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dijon 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 Dijon. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Dijon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is notable for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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 Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Resorts?

Portimao is terrific for its resorts. However, Dijon is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Portimao is a great choice. 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.

Dijon is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Dijon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Dijon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Beaches?

Portimao is terrific for its beaches. However, Dijon is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Portimao. 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.

Dijon is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Dijon?

Both Portimao and Dijon are notable 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 Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Portimao is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Dijon is a family-friendly coastal city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Couples?

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

Portimao makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Dijon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Dijon 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 Dijon. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Portimao or Dijon Better for Students?

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

Dijon is a good city to visit for students. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

Portimao is not popular with students.

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

Dijon 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.

Dijon has a few public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

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

Is Portimao or Dijon a more walkable city?

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

Dijon is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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 Dijon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Dijon?

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

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

One day in Portimao or Dijon?

In Portimao, many people enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling that this scenic 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 city of Dijon 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 Dijon?

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.

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

Five days in Portimao or Dijon?

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.

Dijon 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 Dijon?

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

Dijon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Dijon?

Dijon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Portimao is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portimao in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Dijon averages at about 21°C (70°F).

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

Should I visit Portimao or Dijon in the Autumn?

Both Dijon and Portimao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dijon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 19°C (67°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

Should I visit Portimao or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Dijon. Many visitors come to Portimao in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dijon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can be very cold during winter. Portimao is much warmer than Dijon in the winter. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

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

Should I visit Portimao or Dijon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Dijon. Most visitors come to Portimao for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Dijon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Portimao is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portimao in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Dijon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

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

Typical Weather for Dijon and Portimao