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

Should you visit Porto or Utrecht?

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

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht

This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Porto and Utrecht: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Utrecht?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Utrecht are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Utrecht is known for its historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira. Utrecht is popular for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town.

How is Porto different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Porto is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

Porto offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

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

Porto is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Porto or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Porto and Utrecht.

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.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Is Porto or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht has a world-famous historical area. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

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 the Shopping Better in Porto or Utrecht?

Utrecht is a great 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 Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

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 Utrecht Better for Families?

Porto is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Porto is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly port city. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Porto or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Both Porto and Utrecht are great 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.

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Is Porto or Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Porto is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Many backpackers visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Is Porto or Utrecht Better for Students?

For students, both Porto and Utrecht are great places to visit.

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.

Utrecht is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

Porto and Utrecht both offer great 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.

Utrecht has some very good public transit options. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Is Porto or Utrecht a more walkable city?

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is a very easy to get around on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Porto?

How long in Porto or Utrecht?

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

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

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

Because Porto is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

Because Porto is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Utrecht. 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.

Five days in Porto or Utrecht?

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the canal-filled destination of Utrecht. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Utrecht?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Utrecht, 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 Utrecht?

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

Both Utrecht and Porto during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the family-friendly experiences.

Porto is a little warmer than Utrecht in the summer. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. In the summer, Porto often gets more sunshine than Utrecht. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Utrecht. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Utrecht in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Utrecht. 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. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year.

In the autumn, Porto is much warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Porto in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Utrecht averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Porto usually receives more rain than Utrecht. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Utrecht in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Porto as well as Utrecht. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Utrecht for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Utrecht. In January, Porto is generally much warmer than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 10°C (50°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets more sunshine than Utrecht. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the winter. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Utrecht. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Utrecht in the Spring?

Both Utrecht and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Utrecht in the spring for the natural beauty.

Porto is much warmer than Utrecht in the spring. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Porto. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Utrecht. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Porto