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

Should you visit Porto or Sarajevo?

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

Porto

Porto is a cultural, cosmopolitan, and dynamic 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a overlooked, quaint, and historical city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Porto and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarajevo than Porto. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is very popular for its historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Porto attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Porto is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Sarajevo is famous for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also well known for The Old Town.

How is Porto different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the high quality sights and museums in either Porto or Sarajevo.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sarajevo can be an interesting and educational experience. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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

Both Porto and Sarajevo 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, Sarajevo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

Is Porto or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Porto is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Porto has a large number of nightlife venues. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Porto or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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 Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is very popular for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a great city 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 Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

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 Sarajevo Better for Families?

Porto is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Porto is very family-friendly. 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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Porto or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Porto is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

Porto makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Porto or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Sarajevo is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

Is Porto or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Porto is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Porto and Sarajevo both offer high quality public transit to get you around.

Public transit in Porto is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Sarajevo has some very good public transit options. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Is Porto or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Porto is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable port city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Porto?

How long in Porto or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Porto and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Porto than in Sarajevo. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

Families should spend more time in Porto than Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

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.

In Sarajevo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo?

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.

Sarajevo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Sarajevo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Porto is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Porto in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarajevo this time of the year. In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during summer. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Porto usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Porto or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Porto as well as Sarajevo. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 17°C (62°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Porto usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

Porto is much warmer than Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. It's quite rainy in Porto. In January, Porto usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Porto or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Porto during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Porto is around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Porto in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. In the spring, Porto often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Porto