A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. San Francisco for Food, Hiking, Families, and Beaches

Should you visit Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Portland, Maine or San Francisco? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a one-of-a-kind, scenic, and beautiful coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Portland, Maine and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Francisco than Portland, Maine. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Francisco is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Francisco and Portland, Maine. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put San Francisco on the map. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Portland, Maine is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Portland, Maine or San Francisco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, San Francisco is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Portland, Maine and San Francisco.

Portland, Maine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

If you're looking for night time activities San Francisco has a few options to choose from. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a popular place for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Francisco is active and vibrant. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Portland, Maine and San Francisco are very good choices.

Portland, Maine is considered a top beach destination. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

San Francisco is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is adequate for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

Many enjoy the Christmas activities while in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

San Francisco does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Francisco is a very family-friendly destination. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Couples?

San Francisco is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit San Francisco frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is well known for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Portland, Maine or San Francisco a more walkable city?

San Francisco is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable coastal town. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Portland, Maine 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 San Francisco.

One day in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the picturesque destination of Portland, Maine. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

San Francisco is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a big city with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Portland, Maine. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

San Francisco is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a big city with plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Portland, Maine and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and San Francisco, 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 Portland, Maine or San Francisco?

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 Portland, Maine or San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Portland, Maine during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Francisco in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portland, Maine is a little warmer than San Francisco in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in July than San Francisco. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and San Francisco. Many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Portland, Maine is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland, Maine in October average around 49°F (9°C), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as San Francisco. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. In January, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 21°F (-6°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets less rain in January than San Francisco. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

Portland, Maine is much colder than San Francisco in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Portland, Maine