A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Antonio vs. Portland for Families, Attractions, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit San Antonio or Portland?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Antonio and Portland. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a historic, cultural, and colorful city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a tree-lined, nature-filled, and scenic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

San Antonio and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Antonio or Portland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Antonio than Portland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Antonio is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights, while Portland is known for its hiking and small town charm. Portland is more touristy than San Antonio and is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. San Antonio is popular for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. It is also home to The Alamo.

How is San Antonio different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Antonio or Portland?

San Antonio is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Antonio. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in San Antonio or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Antonio is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around San Antonio. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether San Antonio or Portland has a better nightlife scene.

San Antonio has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either San Antonio or Portland.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in San Antonio. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Antonio or Portland?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and San Antonio.

San Antonio is a great destination for shopping. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Christmas?

San Antonio is a city with good options for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Portland does not offer Christmas activities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy Christmas activities while in San Antonio. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Portland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Families?

San Antonio is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Antonio is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Couples?

San Antonio and Portland both good destinations for a couple.

San Antonio is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a great destination for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Students?

San Antonio and Portland are good places to visit for students.

San Antonio is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Is San Antonio or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portland is a good destination for its public transit. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

Is San Antonio or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is San Antonio Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or San Antonio?

How long in San Antonio or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Antonio and Portland. In our opinion, San Antonio has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Antonio than Portland. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than San Antonio 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 Portland.

One day in San Antonio or Portland?

The city of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the scenic city of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in San Antonio or Portland?

San Antonio is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Antonio, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the laid-back destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in San Antonio or Portland?

San Antonio 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.

The tree-lined city of Portland offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in San Antonio or Portland?

San Antonio is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Portland. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, San Antonio or Portland?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of San Antonio and Portland, 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 San Antonio or Portland?

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 San Antonio or Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Antonio as well as Portland. Most visitors come to San Antonio for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

San Antonio is much warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 87°F (31°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio this time of the year. In the summer, San Antonio often gets less sunshine than Portland. San Antonio gets 307 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

San Antonio usually gets more rain in July than Portland. San Antonio gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Antonio or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and San Antonio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the autumn, San Antonio is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Antonio in October average around 73°F (23°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. San Antonio usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. San Antonio gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, San Antonio usually receives more rain than Portland. San Antonio gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Antonio or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and San Antonio during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Antonio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. In January, San Antonio is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in San Antonio average around 54°F (12°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, San Antonio often gets more sunshine than Portland. San Antonio gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Antonio usually gets less rain in January than Portland. San Antonio gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Antonio or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Antonio and Portland. Many travelers come to San Antonio for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

San Antonio is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in San Antonio averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In San Antonio, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during spring. San Antonio gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, San Antonio usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. San Antonio gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and San Antonio