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

Should you visit Portimao or Rouen?

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 Rouen. 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 colorful, stunning, and dramatic coastal city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Rouen

Rouen is a historical, charming, and compact city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portimao and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Rouen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portimao. Although Portimao and Rouen 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 Rouen is known for its museums, food, and historical sights. Portimao is more touristy than Rouen and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. It is also home to Praia da Rocha. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Portimao different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rouen 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 Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Rouen 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 Rouen is an experience not to be missed. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

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 Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

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 Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for Resorts?

Portimao is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for Beaches?

Portimao is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Rouen is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Rouen offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Rouen?

Both Portimao and Rouen 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 Rouen. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for Families?

Portimao is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly coastal city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for Couples?

Portimao is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Portimao or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao is a popular place for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Rouen is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Rouen offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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

Is Portimao or Rouen a more walkable city?

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

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily 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 Rouen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Rouen?

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

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

One day in Portimao or Rouen?

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 beautiful city of Rouen 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 Rouen?

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.

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

Five days in Portimao or Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled 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.

Rouen 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 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Rouen?

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

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 Rouen in the Summer?

Both Rouen 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 25°C (78°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Rouen. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portimao or Rouen in the Autumn?

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

Portimao is much warmer than Rouen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Rouen fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Portimao usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Rouen. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Rouen in the Winter?

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

Rouen can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Portimao is much warmer than Rouen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portimao in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Rouen averages at about 4°C (39°F).

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

Should I visit Portimao or Rouen in the Spring?

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

In April, Portimao is generally much warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 15°C (60°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Rouen. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Portimao