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

Should you visit Porto or Positano?

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

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a luxurious, charming, and picturesque Mediterranean village. 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. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Porto and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Porto than Positano, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Porto is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Positano is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Porto and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Porto is well known for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Also, Porto is famous for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Porto different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Porto is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Porto and Positano offer first-rate 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, Positano is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Is Porto or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Porto is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Porto for the nightlife scene. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Porto or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Porto is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Positano is a perfect choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Porto or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Porto or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is very good for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Positano to enjoy the beach. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Porto or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano 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.

Positano has a world-famous historical area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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 Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is a great Mediterranean village for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Positano for the hiking trails. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Positano?

Positano is a great Mediterranean village for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano Better for Families?

Porto is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Porto. 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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Porto or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano 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, Positano has plenty to offer. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon 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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Porto, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Porto or Positano Better for Students?

Porto is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Porto is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its public transit.

The public transit in Porto can get you to most places 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.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Porto or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano 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.

Positano is a very easy Mediterranean village to get around on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Porto?

How long in Porto or Positano?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Positano 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 Positano?

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 Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

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 Positano. 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a fun place to experience. Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Porto or Positano?

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.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Positano?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Porto is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 21°C (69°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Positano. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during summer. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Porto usually receives less rain than Positano. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Porto or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Porto during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Positano because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Porto is around the same temperature as Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Positano. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Positano. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Positano in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Positano. The winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In the winter, Porto is a little warmer than Positano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Porto in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Positano averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Positano during winter. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the winter. Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Porto usually receives more rain than Positano. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Porto or Positano in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Porto as well as Positano. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 14°C (56°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°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 Positano. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto usually gets more rain in April than Positano. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Porto