A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portimao vs. Tenerife for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Portimao or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife. 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 vibrant, colorful, and stunning coastal city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a volcanic, scenic, and vibrant island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Portimao and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portimao or Tenerife?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tenerife than Portimao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tenerife is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Portimao is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is well known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Tenerife is well known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. Also, Tenerife is famous for Mount Teide.

How is Portimao different from Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tenerife is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tenerife area. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

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 Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

Tenerife is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife.

Tenerife is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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.

Is Portimao or Tenerife Better for Resorts?

Portimao is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Portimao offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

In Tenerife, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Is Portimao or Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find great places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Portimao and Tenerife.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Is Portimao or Tenerife Better for Beaches?

Portimao is very popular for its beaches. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

The beaches in Portimao are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Tenerife attract visitors from all over. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Is Portimao or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

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

Tenerife is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Portimao is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Tenerife?

Tenerife 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 Tenerife. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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 Tenerife Better for Families?

Both Portimao and Tenerife are world-class 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tenerife is a very family-friendly destination. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

Is Portimao or Tenerife Better for Couples?

Portimao is very popular for romance. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Portimao has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Tenerife frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Portimao or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Portimao and Tenerife are notable 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 Tenerife. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

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

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife has a few public transit options. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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

Is Portimao or Tenerife a more walkable city?

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

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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 Tenerife Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Tenerife?

Both Portimao and Tenerife have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tenerife than in Portimao. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Portimao, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tenerife.

Families should spend more time in Tenerife than Portimao. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tenerife, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tenerife than Portimao. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tenerife that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tenerife 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 Tenerife.

One day in Portimao or Tenerife?

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 island of Tenerife offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tenerife, 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 Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tenerife has to offer. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Portimao or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

Both Tenerife and Portimao during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Portimao in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Portimao is around the same temperature as Tenerife. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portimao in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Tenerife averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in July than Tenerife. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Tenerife in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Tenerife. Most visitors come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Portimao is generally cooler than Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 19°C (67°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In October, Portimao usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portimao or Tenerife in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Tenerife. The winter months attract visitors to Portimao because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year.

Portimao is much colder than Tenerife in the winter. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Tenerife fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Portimao usually gets more rain in January than Tenerife. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portimao or Tenerife in the Spring?

Both Tenerife and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portimao this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Portimao is cooler than Tenerife. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portimao in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Tenerife averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In April, Portimao usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Portimao