A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Portland for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit San Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

San Diego and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Portland attracts visitors for its small town charm. San Diego is more touristy than Portland and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is San Diego different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Diego 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 Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 Diego or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is a coastal 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 Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 Diego or Portland Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Diego or Portland Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is San Diego or Portland Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is San Diego or Portland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Portland Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is San Diego or Portland Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both San Diego and Portland, and they are very good.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Portland?

If you're looking to go shopping, San Diego and Portland both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Many visitors go to Portland to go shopping. 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 Diego or Portland Better for Families?

San Diego 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 Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 Diego or Portland Better for Couples?

San Diego is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

San Diego is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 Diego or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is San Diego or Portland Better for Students?

San Diego is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Portland is popular with students. 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 Diego or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portland is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is San Diego or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Portland?

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

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

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

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

One day in San Diego or Portland?

The coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find live music and shopping around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in San Diego or Portland?

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Portland?

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Diego, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the nature-filled city of Portland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in San Diego or Portland?

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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 city offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When comparing the travel costs between San Diego and Portland, we can see that San Diego is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, San Diego or Portland?

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

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 San Diego or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Portland. Most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Diego is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 71°F (22°C), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Diego usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. San Diego gets 306 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Diego usually receives less rain than Portland. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Diego or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Portland. The autumn months attract visitors to San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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.

San Diego is much warmer than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In the autumn, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Portland. San Diego gets 244 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in October than Portland. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and San Diego 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 San Diego this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. In the winter, San Diego is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Diego in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. San Diego gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, San Diego usually receives less rain than Portland. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Diego or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and San Diego during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, San Diego is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 62°F (17°C), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Diego. In the spring, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Portland. San Diego gets 277 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in April than Portland. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and San Diego