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

Should you visit Porto or Paris?

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

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Porto and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Porto, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Porto is known for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Porto and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Porto different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is very popular for theatre. However, Porto is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Porto is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Porto and Paris offer world-class 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, Paris is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is very popular for nightlife. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is very popular for live music. However, Porto is not a live music destination.

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is Porto or Paris Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Porto. 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Paris?

Paris is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Porto does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Paris. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Porto does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris 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, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Porto and Paris are world-class places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Porto or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Porto is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

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

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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.

Is Porto or Paris a more walkable city?

Porto and Paris are great 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.

Paris is a very walkable port city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Porto?

How long in Porto or Paris?

Both Porto and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Porto. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

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

One day in Porto or Paris?

Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port city 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.

In Paris, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this iconic big city offers. This city 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Porto or Paris?

Porto is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Paris is a fun place to experience. In Paris, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Porto or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural big city of Porto. 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.

In Paris, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this iconic big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Paris, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Porto or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Porto is around the same temperature as Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Paris. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Paris during summer. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Porto usually receives less rain than Paris. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Porto or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Porto during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In the autumn, Porto is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Porto in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Porto often gets more sunshine than Paris. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris 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 Paris. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Paris in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Paris. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. In January, Porto is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 10°C (50°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Paris during winter. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Paris 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 Paris. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Porto or Paris in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Porto as well as Paris. Many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Porto is a little warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°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 Paris. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto usually gets more rain in April than Paris. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Porto