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

Should you visit Portimao or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. 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. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Portimao and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarajevo. Although Portimao and Sarajevo are both popular with visitors, Sarajevo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sarajevo is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Portimao is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Portimao different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sarajevo is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Sarajevo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Portimao is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for Resorts?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not a resort destination.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for Beaches?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Sarajevo is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Portimao is not a hiking destination.

Sarajevo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Portimao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

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 Sarajevo Better for Families?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options 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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options 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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Portimao or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sarajevo is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sarajevo is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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.

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

Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo offers a very effecient public transportation network. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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

Is Portimao or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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 Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Portimao and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Portimao than in Sarajevo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Portimao, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

One day in Portimao or Sarajevo?

The beautiful coastal city of Portimao offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The beautiful city of Sarajevo offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sarajevo?

Portimao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portimao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sarajevo 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sarajevo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portimao or Sarajevo?

Portimao is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

Portimao is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Sarajevo 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 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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portimao or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo 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 hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

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

Portimao usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Portimao is a little warmer than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Portimao usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portimao or Sarajevo in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Portimao is much warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Portimao in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Portimao usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Portimao is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 15°C (60°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Portimao usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Portimao