A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Richmond vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Richmond or Portland, Maine?

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 Richmond and Portland, Maine can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a friendly, historical, and growing city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a laid-back, scenic, and picturesque coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Richmond and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Portland, Maine than Richmond. While Richmond is larger than Portland, Maine, Portland, Maine has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Portland, Maine is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Richmond attracts visitors for its museums. Richmond is famous for its cultural and historical sights. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. It is also well known for The Portland Head Light.

How is Richmond different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine and Richmond. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Richmond is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Richmond or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Foodies will find both Richmond and Portland, Maine both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Evening events are nice in both Richmond and Portland, Maine.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Portland, Maine. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Richmond is not a beach destination.


Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Both Richmond and Portland, Maine are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a moderate coastal town for its Christmas activities. However, Richmond does not offer Christmas activities.

Many enjoy the Christmas activities while in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Richmond does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Richmond or Portland, Maine.

Richmond is a family-friendly place to visit. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Portland, Maine is a family-friendly city. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Both Richmond and Portland, Maine are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Richmond is a good city for couples to visit. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Students?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Richmond is a popular place for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.


Is Richmond or Portland, Maine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Richmond is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Richmond or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Richmond
Portland, Maine

Richmond is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Richmond is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond than Portland, Maine 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 Richmond.


  • How many days in Richmond or Portland, Maine? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Portland, Maine 2-3

One day in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

The friendly destination of Richmond offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.


A weekend in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

The city of Richmond offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, Maine, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Richmond is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Portland, Maine is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Richmond. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Portland, Maine or Richmond?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $161, while the average daily cost in Portland, Maine is $192. 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 Richmond and Portland, Maine in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Portland, Maine $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Portland, Maine $230
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Portland, Maine

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or Portland, Maine? 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 Richmond


Hotels in Portland, Maine


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Portland, Maine Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Portland, Maine $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $42
  • Private Transfer from Portland Jetport (PWM) to Portland Port: $42
  • Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $42
  • Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $42
  • Portland to Portland Jetport (PWM) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Portland Jetport (PWM) to Portland - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $165

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Prices for flights to both Portland, Maine and Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
    Portland, Maine $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $17
  • Dinner for 2
    $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Portland, Maine $39

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour with A Guide: $30

Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine

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

  • Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $6.75
  • Smartphone Old Port Portland, ME Audio Walking Tour APP/GPS: $6.75
  • Walking Tour Audio Guide: $8.49
  • Downtown Portland In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Portland Maine Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Portland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Portland by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Portland Exploration: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $14
  • Ultimate Portland Self-Guided Driving GPS Audio Tour: $15
  • Portland: Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle of Portland Maine Tours: $17
  • Maine: Self-Guided Walking & Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Portland, Maine $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:

  • Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99


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

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Portland, Maine?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Richmond and Portland, Maine, 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 Richmond or Portland, Maine?

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 Richmond or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to Richmond for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Richmond is a little warmer than Portland, Maine in the summer. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during summer. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Richmond usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Portland, Maine 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Portland, Maine. The autumn months attract visitors to Richmond because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

In the autumn, Richmond is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Richmond in October average around 59°F (15°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In the autumn, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland, Maine. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Portland, Maine 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Richmond are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Richmond this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland, Maine. It's quite cold in Richmond in the winter. In January, Richmond is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 36°F (2°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Richmond usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine during winter. Richmond gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Richmond usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland, Maine. Richmond gets 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Richmond 36°F (2°C) 
    Portland, Maine 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

Both Portland, Maine and Richmond during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Richmond is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the spring. The daily temperature in Richmond averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Richmond. In the spring, Richmond often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Richmond gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Richmond usually gets less rain in April than Portland, Maine. Richmond gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Richmond 58°F (14°C) 
    Portland, Maine 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Richmond

Richmond Portland, Maine
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)