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

Should you visit Portimao or Ravenna?

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 Ravenna. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a historic, off-the-beaten-path, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Ravenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portimao. Although Portimao and Ravenna are both popular with visitors, Portimao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portimao is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Ravenna is known for its museums, food, and small town charm. Portimao is more touristy than Ravenna and is popular for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. It is also home to Praia da Rocha. Ravenna is popular for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Portimao different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ravenna 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 Ravenna. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Ravenna 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 Ravenna is an experience not to be missed. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

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 Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Portimao has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Portimao or Ravenna Better for Resorts?

Portimao is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ravenna is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Portimao for its luxury resorts. 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.

Ravenna is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Ravenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ravenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Ravenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

Portimao is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Portimao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Ravenna?

Both Portimao and Ravenna 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 Ravenna. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Portimao or Ravenna Better for Families?

Portimao is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Ravenna is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Is Portimao or Ravenna Better for Couples?

Portimao is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Ravenna frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Is Portimao or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Ravenna 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 Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

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

Ravenna 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.

Ravenna has a few public transit options. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

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

Is Portimao or Ravenna a more walkable city?

Ravenna is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its walkability.

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored 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 Ravenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Ravenna?

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

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

One day in Portimao or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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 Ravenna?

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.

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

Five days in Portimao or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Ravenna?

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

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and Portimao during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

In July, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 25°C (78°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in July than Ravenna. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Ravenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Ravenna. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ravenna for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Portimao is a little warmer than Ravenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Ravenna fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In October, Portimao usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portimao or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Ravenna. Many travelers come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ravenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ravenna can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Portimao is much warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portimao in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Ravenna averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Portimao usually gets more rain in January than Ravenna. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Ravenna in the Spring?

Both Ravenna and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Portimao in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Ravenna for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 15°C (60°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In April, Portimao usually receives less rain than Ravenna. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Portimao