A Travel Price Comparison for Portugal Portimao vs. Lisbon for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Europe / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Portimao or Lisbon?

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 Lisbon. 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 stunning, dramatic, and active coastal city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Portimao
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Lisbon
Pros
  • Good for shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


How is Portimao different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lisbon and Portimao. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Portimao or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Portimao
Lisbon

Both Portimao and Lisbon are comparable when it comes to 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.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style.


Is Portimao or Lisbon Better for Shopping?

Portimao
Lisbon

Lisbon is generally considered to be a more popular shopping destination.

Lisbon is a world class destination for shoppers. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon Better for Families?

Portimao
Lisbon

Both Portimao and Lisbon are family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Portimao is very family-friendly. 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.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars.

Is Portimao or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Portimao
Lisbon

Portimao and Lisbon both fun destinations for a couple.

Portimao is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples.

Is Portimao or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao
Lisbon

While Portimao and Lisbon are both good for backpackers, overall Lisbon is more popular.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers.

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.


Is Portimao or Lisbon Better for Public Transit?

Portimao
Lisbon

While Portimao and Lisbon both provide public transit, overall the system in Lisbon is considered to be better.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Portimao or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Portimao
Lisbon

Lisbon is more walkable than Portimao.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Lisbon?

Both Portimao and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than Portimao.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Portimao is 2-4 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Lisbon is 3-7 days.


  • How many days in Portimao or Lisbon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portimao 2-4 
    Lisbon 3-7

One day in Portimao or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Portimao. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Lisbon?

Portimao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Portimao or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portimao. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portimao or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Portimao. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Which city is cheaper, Lisbon or Portimao?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Portimao is €121, while the average daily cost in Lisbon is €105. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Portimao and Lisbon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portimao €62
    Lisbon €47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portimao €124
    Lisbon €94
Compare Hotels in Portimao and Lisbon

Looking for a hotel in Portimao or Lisbon? 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 Lisbon


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 Lisbon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portimao €30
    Lisbon €19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $52
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $66
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Alto Golf Pestana (Alvor): $36
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $36
  • Transfer Portimão - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $52
  • Transfer Portimão - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $62
  • Transfer Portimão - Alto Golf Pestana (Alvor): $36
  • Transfer Portimão - Alamos Golf (Portimão) Pending: $36
  • Private Transfer from Portimao to Faro (FAO) Airport: $96
  • Private Transfer from Hotel da Rocha to Faro (FAO) Airport: $96
  • Faro Shared Transfer to or from Portimão: $38
  • Faro Private Transfer to or from Portimão: $44

Typical Local Transportation prices in Lisbon

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Lisbon:


  • Taxi Ride
    €6.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisbon

Also for Lisbon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lisbon Shared Transfer: To or From the Airport: $9.58
  • Lisbon Shared Transfer: To or From the Airport: $11
  • Lisbon Private Transfer to Airport: $11
  • Lisbon Airport Shared Departure Transfer: $11
  • Lisbon Airport Shared Arrival Transfer: $11
  • Lisbon Private Transfer: To or From the Airport: $11
  • Private Transfer To or From Lisbon Airport: $11
  • Shared Transfer Between Airport and City Hotels: $11
  • From Freeport Shopping Experience with Transfers: $11
  • Lisbon Airport Arrival Shared Transfer: $11
  • Lisbon Shared Departure Transfer to Airport, Train or Port: $11
  • Lisbon Shared Arrival Transfer from Airport, Train or Port: $11

Is it cheaper to fly into Portimao or Lisbon?

Prices for flights to both Lisbon 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 €36
    Lisbon €34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portimao

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

  • Portimão - Food Tour: $96

Typical Food prices in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    €2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Virtual Portuguese Cooking Lesson: $31
  • Live Online Cooking Class from Pastel de Nata with Filipa: $39
  • Bohemian dinner party on a beautiful rooftop near the coast: $42
  • 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class: $51
  • The magic of Pasteis de Nata cooking class in Lisbon: $53
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour New To Lisbon: $54
  • Withlocals Your Way: Lisbon Personalised Private Food Tour: $56
  • Pastel de Nata Cooking Class with Local Baker: $57
  • Private Groups: Pastel de Nata cooking class and tasting in Lisbon's pastry shop: $57
  • Authentic Portuguese dinner with a local chef: $58
  • Lisbon Food Tour: $62
  • Lisbon Old Town Food Tour by Sitway: $63

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portimao €33
    Lisbon €19

Tours and Activities in Portimao

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

  • 1 Hour - Express tour to Benagil Cave: $28
  • 2 Hours Portimão Walking Tour: $20
  • 2.5-Hour Cruise to Benagil Caves From Portimão: $37
  • 2h30min Private Benagil Caves Tour & Snorkeing & Cliff-jumping with Lots of fun!: $373
  • Afternoon Sailing and Caves Tour from Portimao: $44
  • Algarve Coastline Tour from Portimao jeep and boat tour: $75
  • Algarve Jeep Safari tours: $38
  • Benagil & Marinha Boat Tour: $44
  • Benagil - Private Tour with Captain - Algarve Cave Captain: $348
  • Benagil Boat Tour with Local Guide: $35
  • Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach Boat Tour from Portimao: $37
  • Benagil Caves Tour & Snorkeling & Cliff-jumping - lots of fun and adventure: $50

Tours and Activities in Lisbon

For Lisbon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Lisbon Downtown Tour - The Perfect Introduction to the City: $1.24
  • Lisbon Historical Walking Tour: $3.11
  • Sintra Myths and Legends Interpretative Center Entry Ticket: $3.99
  • Contemporary Park of Nations Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.48
  • The Soul of Alfama Self-guided Audio Tour by VoiceMap Lisbon: $5.99
  • Museu Coleção Berardo Admission Ticket: $6.22
  • Skip the Line: Pilar 7 Bridge Experience Admission Ticket: $6.22
  • Street Art Virtual Tour in Lisbon: $6.22
  • Lisboa Story Centre: 1-Day Admission Ticket: $7.41
  • Lisboa Story Centre Admission Ticket: $8.09
  • Capuchos Convent Skip-the-Line Ticket: $8.71
  • Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Admission Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portimao €24
    Lisbon €14

Sample the Local Flavors in Portimao

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

  • Portimão & Carvoeiro: Algarve Wine Tour in a VW T2 Van: $57
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $72
  • Algarve wine tour of two wine estates and lunch at hystorical town of Silves: $112
  • Algarve Wine Tour and Mountain Discovery With Lunch at Mountain Top: $144
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $207

Sample the Local Flavors in Lisbon

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

  • 1-Hour Portuguese Wine Tasting Session: $22
  • 3-Hour Portuguese History & Flavors Food & Wine Tour: $30
  • Portuguese Wine Tasting and Cheese Lunch: $56
  • Christ the King and Arrábida Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting from Lisbon: $58
  • Craft Beer, Port & Wine Tour: $68
  • Food & Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $75
  • Santuário Cristo Rei-Sesimbra-Castle Palmela-Bacalhoa Winery with wine tasting: $81
  • Full-Day Évora Wine Tour: $84
  • Wine Tasting in Lisbon: $87
  • Private Van Tour Arrabida and Wine Tasting: $89
  • Wine tasting Private Day Tour ARRABIDA: $92
  • Van Private Tour Arrábida Wine Tour: $96

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Portimao and Lisbon, we can see that Portimao 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.


When is the best time to visit Portimao or Lisbon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Portimao or Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Portimao during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the summer. The temperature in Portimao is usually 25°C (78°F) in July, and Lisbon stays around 23°C (73°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in July than Lisbon. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portimao 25°C (78°F) 
    Lisbon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Lisbon. Many travelers come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In October, Portimao usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Portimao or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Lisbon. Many visitors come to Portimao in the winter for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Lisbon. Temperatures in Portimao average around 11°C (52°F), and Lisbon stays around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. Portimao usually gets less rain in January than Lisbon. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portimao 11°C (52°F) 
    Lisbon 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Portimao for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Portimao is around the same temperature as Lisbon in the spring. The temperature in Portimao is usually 15°C (60°F) in April, and Lisbon stays around 16°C (60°F).

In April, Portimao usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portimao 15°C (60°F) 
    Lisbon 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Portimao

Portimao Lisbon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)


Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.
Sign Up

More City Comparisons
Sintra vs. Portimao
Sintra vs. Lisbon
Setubal vs. Portimao
Setubal vs. Lisbon
Portimao vs. Peniche
Portimao vs. Lagos
Portimao vs. Funchal
Portimao vs. Faro
Portimao vs. Evora
Portimao vs. Ericeira
Portimao vs. Albufeira
Portimao vs. Madeira Islands
Portimao vs. Viseu
Portimao vs. Porto
Portimao vs. Mangualde
Portimao vs. Figueira da Foz
Portimao vs. Coimbra
Portimao vs. Braga
Portimao vs. Aveiro
Portimao vs. Azores
Portimao vs. Costa de Prata
Portimao vs. Costa Vicentina
Portimao vs. Sintra-Cascais National Park
Peniche vs. Lisbon
Lisbon vs. Lagos
Lisbon vs. Funchal
Lisbon vs. Faro
Lisbon vs. Evora
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Portimao vs. Lisbon Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.