A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Porto vs. Annecy for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Porto or Annecy?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Annecy can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a storybook, charming, and stunning alpine town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Porto and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Annecy are popular destinations, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Annecy attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Porto and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Porto different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Porto or Annecy?

Porto is a great port city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Is the Food Better in Porto or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Porto and Annecy offer fantastic local cuisine and restaurants.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Annecy is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Porto is a great port city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Porto has something for everybody. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its old town.

Annecy has a world-famous historical area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a great alpine town for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Annecy?

If you're looking to go shopping, Porto and Annecy both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Porto. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Annecy offers some nice shopping areas. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Porto or Annecy.

Porto is a very family-friendly destination. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly port city. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Porto is extremely popular for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Students?

Porto is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Porto is very popular with students. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Annecy is not popular with students.

Is Porto or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Porto is a great port city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its public transit.

Porto has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Annecy has a few public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Porto or Annecy a more walkable city?

Porto and Annecy are very good when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Annecy is a very walkable port city. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Porto?

How long in Porto or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Porto or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Porto due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Annecy 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 Porto.

One day in Porto or Annecy?

Porto is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine town 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.

A weekend in Porto or Annecy?

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Porto or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Porto or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Porto. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Porto and Annecy, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Porto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Porto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Porto 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Porto.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Annecy?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Annecy, 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 Porto or Annecy?

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 Porto or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Porto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

In the summer, Porto is around the same temperature as Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Porto in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Annecy. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during summer. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Porto usually receives less rain than Annecy. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Porto or Annecy in the Autumn?

Both Annecy and Porto during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Porto is generally a little warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 17°C (62°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Porto often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in October than Annecy. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Annecy. Many travelers come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. Porto is much warmer than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during winter. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Porto usually receives more rain than Annecy. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Porto or Annecy in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Porto as well as Annecy. Many visitors come to Porto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Porto is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Porto in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the spring, Porto often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto usually gets more rain in April than Annecy. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Porto