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

Should you visit Portimao or Imperia?

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 Imperia. 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 dramatic, active, and scenic coastal city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Imperia: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Portimao or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Portimao. Although Portimao and Imperia 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 Imperia attracts visitors for its museums and food. Portimao is more touristy than Imperia and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. It is also well known for Praia da Rocha. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Portimao different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portimao
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Portimao
Imperia

Imperia 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 Imperia area. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

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 Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Portimao
Imperia

Portimao is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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 Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Portimao or Imperia Better for Resorts?

Portimao
Imperia

Portimao is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Portimao or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao
Imperia

Portimao is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Portimao
Imperia

Portimao is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Imperia?

Portimao
Imperia

Both Portimao and Imperia are nice 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 Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.


Is Portimao or Imperia Better for Families?

Portimao
Imperia

Portimao is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly coastal city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Portimao or Imperia Better for Couples?

Portimao
Imperia

Portimao is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Portimao or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao
Imperia

Both Portimao and Imperia are nice 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 Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.


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

Portimao
Imperia

Imperia 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.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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

Is Portimao or Imperia a more walkable city?

Portimao
Imperia

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

Imperia is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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 Imperia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Imperia?

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

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


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

One day in Portimao or Imperia?

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 town of Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Imperia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia 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 Imperia is €108. 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 Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portimao 78
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portimao 156
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Portimao and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Portimao or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portimao 37
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Transfer Lagoa - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Alvor - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Alamos Golf (Portimão) : $35
  • Transfer Lagoa - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $41
  • Transfer Alvor - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $49
  • Private Transfer from Praia dos Salgados to Faro (FAO) Airport: $55
  • Transfer Portimão - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $60
  • Alvor, Carvoeiro or Portimão Transfer to Faro Airport FAO - Private Vehicle: $60
  • Transfer Lagoa - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $61
  • Private Transfer from Carvoeiro to Faro (FAO) Airport: $68
  • Private Transfer from Josper Grill Steakhouse Dry Aged to Faro (FAO) Airport: $81
  • Private Transfer from Algoz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Portimao or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portimao 41
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Portimao

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

  • SUP - Stand Up Paddle Algarve Adventure: $17
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunrise Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunset Tour: $22
  • Express Tour - Benagil Cave: $22
  • From Portimão Early Birds Benagil Tour By Traditional Boat: $24
  • Portimão: Benagil Caves Speedboat Tour: $24
  • Two Hours Tour from Portimão to Paradise : $25
  • Portimão to Benagil: Adrenaline Wave - 90Mins Cave Tour: $25
  • Kayak Tour with local guide in Benagil: $26
  • 2 Hours Cruise Portimão to Benagil Cave & Marinha Beach: $28
  • Benagil Cave Kayak Self-Guided Tour: $28
  • Catamaran Tour to Benagil Caves: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portimao 30
    Imperia 7.50

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 Tasting & Music Experience: $61
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $74
  • Algarve wine tour and farmer's lunch at wine estate: $184
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $212


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

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


Which is Bigger, Portimao or Imperia?

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

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia 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 Imperia for the family-friendly experiences.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Imperia. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portimao 25°C (78°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia 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 Imperia in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Portimao is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portimao in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Imperia. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Portimao 19°C (67°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Imperia in the Winter?

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

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

In January, Portimao usually receives more rain than Imperia. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portimao 11°C (52°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Imperia in the Spring?

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

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

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portimao 15°C (60°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Portimao

Portimao Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)