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

Should you visit Portimao or Toulon?

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 Toulon. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Portimao and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Portimao or Toulon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portimao than Toulon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portimao is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Portimao is more touristy than Toulon and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Also, Portimao is famous for Praia da Rocha. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Portimao different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portimao
Toulon

Toulon 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 Toulon. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Portimao
Toulon

Toulon 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 Toulon area. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

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 Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Portimao
Toulon

Portimao is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Portimao or Toulon Better for Resorts?

Portimao
Toulon

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Toulon is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Portimao is a perfect 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.

Toulon is not a resort destination.


Is Portimao or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao
Toulon

Portimao is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Is Portimao or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Portimao
Toulon

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

With world-famous beaches, Portimao is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Portimao or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Portimao
Toulon

Toulon is a moderate port city for its historic old town charm. However, Portimao does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Toulon is worth visiting. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Portimao does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Portimao or Toulon?

Portimao
Toulon

Toulon 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 Toulon. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to 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 Toulon Better for Families?

Portimao
Toulon

Portimao is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Portimao is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly coastal city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Portimao or Toulon Better for Couples?

Portimao
Toulon

Portimao is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Portimao has plenty to offer. 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.


Is Portimao or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portimao
Toulon

Both Portimao and Toulon 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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

Portimao
Toulon

Toulon 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.

Toulon has a few public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around 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 Toulon a more walkable city?

Portimao
Toulon

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

Toulon is a very walkable destination. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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 Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Portimao?

How long in Portimao or Toulon?

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

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


  • How many days in Portimao or Toulon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Portimao 2-4 
    Toulon 1-2

One day in Portimao or Toulon?

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.

The port city of Toulon 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 Toulon?

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.

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

Five days in Portimao or Toulon?

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.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the dramatic 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.

Toulon 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 port city offers something for everyone.


Which place is cheaper, Toulon or Portimao?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Portimao is €152, while the average daily cost in Toulon is €119. 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 destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Portimao and Toulon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Portimao 78
    Toulon 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Portimao 156
    Toulon 158
Compare Hotels in Portimao and Toulon

Looking for a hotel in Portimao or Toulon? 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 Toulon


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 Toulon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Portimao 37
    Toulon 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Transfer Armação de Pêra - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $34
  • Transfer Alvor - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Ferragudo - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Lagoa - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $34
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Alamos Golf (Portimão) : $35
  • Transfer Portimão - Alamos Golf (Portimão) Pending: $35
  • Transfer Ferragudo - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $41
  • Transfer Lagoa - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $41
  • Transfer Carvoeiro - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $42
  • Transfer Armação de Pêra - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $44
  • Transfer Carvoeiro - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $48
  • Private Transfer from Estrada da Galé to Faro (FAO) Airport: $48

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Toulon:

  • Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille Provence Airport: $119
  • Private Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille city Hotels: $119

Is it cheaper to fly into Portimao or Toulon?

Prices for flights to both Toulon 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 45
    Toulon 30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portimao

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

  • Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with lunch or dinner at sunset time: $149

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulon

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

  • Culinary Heritage Guided Walking Food Tour: $103
  • Toulon Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Portimao 41
    Toulon 13

Tours and Activities in Portimao

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

  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunrise Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunset Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 min Tour: $16
  • SUP - Stand Up Paddle Algarve Adventure: $17
  • Sunrise Benagil Full Caves Tour: $19
  • Benagil Cave Sunset Cruise: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunrise Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunset Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 min Tour: $22
  • Express Tour - Benagil Cave: $22
  • From Portimão Early Birds Benagil Tour By Traditional Boat: $24
  • Portimão: Benagil Caves Speedboat Tour: $24

Tours and Activities in Toulon

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

  • Little Train Ticket: $9.80
  • Provence Abbey of Thoronet Entrance Ticket: $9.99
  • Guided Tour in Port & Old City: $55
  • Private Heritage Walking Tour in Toulon: $181
  • Toulon Private Tour: $283

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Portimao 30
    Toulon 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Portimao

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

  • Wine Tasting and Art Tour: $40
  • Algarve Wine Tasting & Music Experience: $61
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $75
  • Algarve wine tour of 2 wine estates and lunch at the countryside: $156
  • Algarve wine tour and farmer's lunch at wine estate: $185
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $213

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toulon:

  • Cellar Visit & Bandol Wine Tasting (in French): $13
  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Ramatuelle + wine tasting: $99
  • Porquerolles Island and Carmignac Museum of Art with wine tasting: $277


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

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


Which is Bigger, Portimao or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Portimao and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon and Portimao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Portimao for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Portimao is around the same temperature as Toulon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portimao in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Toulon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In July, Portimao usually receives less rain than Toulon. Portimao gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Portimao 25°C (78°F) 
    Toulon 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and Portimao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Portimao in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Portimao is generally a little warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Portimao average around 19°C (67°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Portimao gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Portimao 19°C (67°F) 
    Toulon 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Toulon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portimao and Toulon. Most visitors come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Toulon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portimao is much warmer than Toulon in the winter. The daily temperature in Portimao averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In January, Portimao usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulon. Portimao gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Portimao 11°C (52°F) 
    Toulon 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Portimao or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portimao as well as Toulon. The spring months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

In the spring, Portimao is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portimao in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Toulon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Portimao usually gets less rain in April than Toulon. Portimao gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Portimao 15°C (60°F) 
    Toulon 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Toulon and Portimao

Portimao Toulon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 15°C (60°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (75°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)