A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Porto vs. Bellagio for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Porto or Bellagio?

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 Bellagio can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a impressive, glamorous, and opulent town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and shopping.

Porto and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Porto or Bellagio?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Bellagio are popular destinations, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Bellagio attracts visitors for its small town charm. Bellagio is more touristy than Porto and is popular for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. 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 Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Porto. 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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.


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

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Porto or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Porto know how to have a good time. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Porto or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is a great destination for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Porto is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Bellagio?

Porto
Bellagio

If you're looking to go shopping, Porto and Bellagio 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.

Bellagio offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Porto or Bellagio Better for Families?

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Porto is a very kid-friendly port city. 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.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Porto or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Porto
Bellagio

Both Porto and Bellagio are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Bellagio is a very popular place to visit for couples. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.


Is Porto or Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Porto or Bellagio Better for Students?

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is a great destination for students. However, Bellagio is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

Porto
Bellagio

Porto is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Porto can get you around easily. 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.

While Bellagio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.


Is Porto or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Porto
Bellagio

Bellagio is very popular for its walkability. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its high level of walkability.

Bellagio is a very easy town to get around on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored on foot.

Porto is a very walkable port city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Porto?

How long in Porto or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Porto or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Porto than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Porto or Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Porto 2-5 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Porto or Bellagio?

Porto is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Even though Bellagio is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Porto or Bellagio?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bellagio. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Bellagio?

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Porto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bellagio is a fun place to experience. Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Porto or Bellagio?

Porto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Bellagio is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio or Porto?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Porto is €126, while the average daily cost in Bellagio is €222. 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 Porto and Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Porto 65
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Porto 130
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Porto and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Porto or Bellagio? 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 Porto


Hotels in Bellagio


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: Porto Hotel Prices and Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Porto 21
    Bellagio 9.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Porto

Also for Porto, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfers: $27
  • Airport transfer with vintage Vw Kombi van: $107
  • Arrival Transfer from Porto Airport OPO to Porto in Private Car/Van: $97
  • Arrival Transfer: Porto Airport OPO to Porto in Business Car: $76
  • Aveiro Private Transfer to Porto: $79
  • Departure Transfer: Porto to Porto Airport OPO in Business Car: $76
  • Departure Transfer: Porto to Porto Airport OPO in Luxury Van: $92
  • Effortless Wheels Seamless Transfer Experience Porto-Lisbon: $364
  • Exclusive Private Transfer Gaia - Porto Airport: $46
  • From Porto Bus Station: Transfer to/from Lisbon Oriente: $4.22
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Lisbon: $642
  • From Private Transfer to Lisbon with Coimbra & Fatima: $627

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $382
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $351

Is it cheaper to fly into Porto or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio and Porto 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
    Porto 36
    Bellagio 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Porto

For Porto, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pastel de Nata Cooking Class in Downtown Porto: $37
  • Tastiest Calories Food Tour: $48
  • Bolhão Market and Codfish Tasting Guided Food Tour: $52
  • Porto Food Tour: Full Meal & Drinks: $56
  • Porto Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $57
  • 3-Hour Food Tour: $68
  • Half-Day Food Tour: $68
  • Portuguese Craft Beer and Food Tour: $74
  • Semi - Private Oporto Food Tour: $74
  • Craft Beer & Food Tour in Porto: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $77
  • Semi Private Oporto Fado Show with Dinner: $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

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

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $191
  • Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi: $209
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $534

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Porto 25
    Bellagio -

Tours and Activities in Porto

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Porto.

  • City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Porto Walking Tour - The Perfect Introduction to the City: $1.09
  • Ultimate Ribeira Walking Tour: $2.60
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • The Unvanquished Tour in Porto City Center: $3.26
  • From Portugal eSIM Tourist Data Plan: $4.81
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Porto (Gaia) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $7.65
  • Porto (Gaia) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.82
  • Casa São Roque Direct Entry Ticket: $8.56

Tours and Activities in Bellagio

Here are a few actual costs in Bellagio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bellagio Walking Tour + Lunch + Villa Balbianello: $315
  • Lake Como Sunset Boat Tour with Prosecco: $118
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $187
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $428
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $127
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $106
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $123
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $93
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $78
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $71
  • Shared Boat Tour from Bellagio: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Porto 19
    Bellagio 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Porto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Porto:

  • Museu do Vitral Entry Ticket and Wine Tasting: $8.56
  • Guided City Pub Crawl with Club Entry: $13
  • Magic Train Tour and Port Wine Tastings: $15
  • Mysterious Pub Crawl Interactive City Discovery Game: $19
  • Pub Crawl with 5 Drinks: $19
  • Porto Pub Crawl With Unlimited Beer: $20
  • Pub Crawl with Shots and Drinking Games: $21
  • Poças: Guided Tour & Port Wine Tasting with Pastel de Nata: $21
  • Poças Guided Visit and Port Wine Tasting with Pastel de Nata: $21
  • Rooftop Fado concert, Port wine tasting, Portuguese tart: $21
  • Classic Wine Tasting with GUIDED TOUR: $22
  • Pub Crawl Porto: $23


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Porto and Bellagio, we can see that Bellagio 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 Bellagio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bellagio 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 Bellagio Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Porto or Bellagio?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Porto or Bellagio in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Porto as well as Bellagio. Many travelers come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Bellagio in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Porto is cooler than Bellagio. Typically, the summer temperatures in Porto in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Bellagio averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Porto usually gets less rain in July than Bellagio. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Porto 21°C (69°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Porto or Bellagio in the Autumn?

Both Bellagio and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Porto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bellagio for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Porto is generally a little warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 17°C (62°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bellagio. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Porto 17°C (62°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Porto or Bellagio in the Winter?

Both Bellagio and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bellagio can be very cold. Porto is much warmer than Bellagio in the winter. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Bellagio. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Porto 10°C (50°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Porto or Bellagio in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Bellagio. The spring months attract visitors to Porto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bellagio this time of year.

In the spring, Porto is around the same temperature as Bellagio. Typically, the spring temperatures in Porto in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Bellagio averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Bellagio receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Porto 14°C (56°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Porto

Porto Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 169 mm (6.7 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 20°C (69°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 20°C (67°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 11°C (51°F) 176 mm (6.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)