A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portimao vs. Korcula for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Portimao or Korcula?

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 Korcula. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Korcula

Korcula is a laid back, historic, and scenic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Portimao and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Korcula?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Korcula. Although Portimao and Korcula are both popular with visitors, Korcula has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Korcula is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and hiking, while Portimao is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is more touristy than Korcula and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Korcula is popular for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also home to St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Portimao different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Korcula 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 Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Korcula 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 Korcula is an experience not to be missed. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

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 Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Portimao know how to have a good time. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Resorts?

Portimao is renowned for its resorts. However, Korcula 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.

Korcula is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Portimao is renowned for the beache. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Many people visit Korcula for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Korcula 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 Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Korcula is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Portimao is not a hiking destination.

Korcula is a popular spot for hiking. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Portimao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Korcula?

Both Portimao and Korcula 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 Korcula. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Families?

Portimao is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Korcula. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Couples?

Portimao is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Korcula is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Korcula 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 Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Portimao or Korcula Better for Students?

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

Korcula is a good island to visit for students. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Portimao is not popular with students.

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

Korcula 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.

Korcula has a few public transit options. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

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

Is Portimao or Korcula a more walkable city?

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

Korcula is a somewhat walkable island. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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 Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Korcula?

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

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

One day in Portimao or Korcula?

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 beautiful island of Korcula offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Korcula?

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.

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

Five days in Portimao or Korcula?

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.

Korcula 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island 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 Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Korcula?

Portimao has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

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

In July, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 25°C (78°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Korcula. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Korcula. The autumn months attract visitors to Portimao because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Korcula in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Korcula. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula 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 Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Portimao is a little warmer than Korcula. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portimao in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Korcula averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives around the same amount of rain as Korcula. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portimao or Korcula in the Spring?

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

In April, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 15°C (60°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Korcula. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Portimao