A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santorini vs. Portimao for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

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Should you visit Santorini or Portimao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Santorini or Portimao, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Santorini

Santorini is a romantic, stunning, and historic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Portimao

Portimao is a stunning, dramatic, and active coastal city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Santorini and Portimao: Pros and Cons

Santorini
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
Portimao
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


How is Santorini different from Portimao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Nightlife?

Santorini
Portimao

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find comparable options between Santorini and Portimao.

If you're looking for night time activities Santorini has a few options to choose from. It is one of the calmer, more romantic islands in Greece. For the best nightlife, you'll want to stay near Fira.

Portimao offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.


Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Resorts?

Santorini
Portimao

With a similar set of options, resorts can be found in both Santorini and Portimao.

Santorini offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The resorts range from all-inclusive options to resorts with a more local feel. The island is one of the most romantic of the Greek Islands, and the resorts are no exception.

Portimao is a world class resort vacation destination. The area has all types of resorts, from all-inclusive options to luxury or more family-friendly. Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach.

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santorini
Portimao

You'll find snorkeling or scuba diving in both Santorini and Portimao.

Santorini has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling places are found at Red Beach, White Beach, and the less accessible Kambia. One of the island's best diving spots is Caldera Beach.

Portimao is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Beaches?

Santorini
Portimao

Portimao is considered to be a more popular beach destination than Santorini.

The beaches in Portimao are among the best in the world. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Santorini. The island has many beaches, most of which are made of black pebbly sand that are a result of the island's volcanic history. Popular beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perivolos Beach.

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Shopping?

Santorini
Portimao

If you're looking to go shopping, Santorini and Portimao both offer plenty of spots.

Santorini is well-known for its shopping. Towns around the island are filled with clothing and jewelry boutiques as well as many unique Greek shopping experiences.

Many visitors go to Portimao to go shopping. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.


Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Families?

Santorini
Portimao

Families will find a wider variety of activities in Portimao than Santorini.

Portimao is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. Kids will love the wide range of activities available near Portimao. They can kayak through caves, see an underwater world snorkeling, learn to surf, visit waterparks, explore nature parks, and more. There are activities that the whole family can enjoy, making this stretch of coastline the perfect option for those traveling with kids.

Santorini is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a calmer destination than many of the Greek Islands. While it's a great place to relax with kids, the beaches aren't as good as they are on some of the other islands. Most families hang out in Kamari and Perissa Beach.

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Couples?

Santorini
Portimao

Santorini and Portimao are both fun to visit as a couple.

Santorini has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a dream honeymoon destination that is famous for its picturesque setting and luxury resorts. For many couples, this is a top pick for a romantic trip to the Greek Isles.

Portimao is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers unique beaches and stunning outdoor activities. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. There are great restaurants as well as places to relax or activities for thrill seekers.

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santorini
Portimao

For backpackers, both Santorini and Portimao are fairly comparable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Santorini. The island has its share of 5 star resorts, but if you head a few streets in you'll find some surprisingly affordable accommodation. Backpackers are welcomed on the island and beaches are free, so it's possible to get by on a relatively low budget.

Portimao is a good island to visit for backpackers. Most people think of high end resorts when they think of the Mediterranean coast, but there are a couple of hostels available for backpackers. You should also consider transportation options. While buses are available, many visitors prefer to have access to a car so they can experience the outlying regions. The good news is the area in general is not particularly expensive so you can enjoy a touch of luxury at a lower cost.

Is Santorini or Portimao Better for Public Transit?

Santorini
Portimao

Santorini and Portimao both offer public transit to get you around.

While Santorini offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system, KTEL Santorini Buses, that runs 23 buses during the summer months but only a small fraction of that operate during the winter months.

Public transit is generally limited in Portimao. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.


Is Santorini or Portimao a more walkable city?

Santorini
Portimao

Santorini and Portimao are similar when it comes to walkability.

Santorini is a somewhat walkable place. Many towns on the island are walkable, including Fira, but the actual island is too large to explore on foot.

Portimao is generally not very walkable. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.

Should I spend more time in Portimao or Santorini?

How long in Santorini or Portimao?

It's fun to spend time in either Santorini or Portimao. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Santorini due to the larger number of activities and things to do.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Santorini is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Portimao is 2-4 days.


  • How many days in Santorini or Portimao? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santorini 3-7 
    Portimao 2-4

One day in Santorini or Portimao?

The beautiful island of Santorini offers museums and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Portimao. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Santorini or Portimao?

Santorini is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 colorful destination of Portimao. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Santorini or Portimao?

Santorini is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santorini, 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 scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the dramatic coastal city of Portimao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Santorini or Portimao?

Santorini is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santorini has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Portimao is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Which city is cheaper, Portimao or Santorini?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Santorini is €131, while the average daily cost in Portimao is €121. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Santorini and Portimao in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santorini €66
    Portimao €62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santorini €132
    Portimao €124
Compare Hotels in Santorini and Portimao

Looking for a hotel in Santorini or Portimao? 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 Santorini


Hotels in Portimao


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: Santorini Hotel Prices and Portimao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Santorini €23
    Portimao €30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santorini

Also for Santorini, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Transfer Service: $17
  • Santorini transfer service: $17
  • Oia Sunset: Evening Shuttle Transfer and Free Time: $23
  • Private Airport Transfer: $25
  • Santorini Airport Hotels Transfer Shuttle Bus Service: $27
  • Transfer from Santorini Airport&Port all destination except OIA up to 4 customer: $37
  • Santorini Airport to Hotel: Private Arrival Transfer: $45
  • Private Transfer to/from Santorini Airport (JTR): $50
  • Santorini Taxi Service & Airport, Hotel and Port Transfers: $62
  • Tour of Caldera on Sailing Boat & Bus Transfer:Volcano-Hot springs-Thirassia-Oia: $75
  • Premium Santorini Private Day Tour Lagoon 450, BBQ, drinks, transfer: $933
  • Helicopter Transfer between Mykonos & Santorini: $2,839

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Private Transfer from Portimao to Faro (FAO) Airport: $96
  • Private Transfer from Hotel da Rocha to Faro (FAO) Airport: $96
  • Airport Transfer: $94
  • Faro Airport Private Transfer to or from Portimão/Praia da Rocha: $88
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $66
  • Transfer Portimão - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $62
  • Transfer Portimão - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $52
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Boavista Golf (Lagos): $52
  • Faro Private Transfer to or from Portimão: $44
  • Faro Shared Transfer to or from Portimão: $38
  • Transfer Portimão - Alamos Golf (Portimão) Pending: $36
  • Transfer Praia da Rocha - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Santorini or Portimao?

Prices for flights to both Portimao and Santorini 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
    Santorini €38
    Portimao €36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santorini

For Santorini, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Live Virtual Cooking Class: $26
  • A taste of Mediterranean Cuisine Dinner: $90
  • Hands on Cooking Class with a Chef: $90
  • Fira: 4-Hour Walking Food Tour With Tastings: $108
  • Sunset Sea Kayak and Snorkel with Dinner: $108
  • Santorini : Sunset Sea Kayak & Snorkel with Dinner: $118
  • Santorini : Cooking Class, Easy Hike, and Snorkeling: $131
  • Cooking Class with Santorini’s Aroma: $506
  • Full-Day Royalty Private Cooking Class and Tour in Santorini: $506
  • Cooking Class with Santorini’s Aroma: $546
  • Santorini Private Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner, Drinks &Transfer included: $1,350

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portimao

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

  • Portimão - Food Tour: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santorini €29
    Portimao €33

Tours and Activities in Santorini

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Santorini.

  • Akrotiri Prehistoric City Audio Tour: $18
  • Unique Oia's Sunset Tour in Santorini: $30
  • Royalty Unique Oia’s Sunset Tour in Santorini: $31
  • Santorini-Unique Oia’s Sunset Tour: $31
  • Island Bus Tour: The Majestic Spots Of Santorini: $43
  • Santorini Volcano and Thirassia Islands Tour: $43
  • Oia and Fira Evening Small Group Tour: $45
  • 3 Hour Santorini Walking Tour with Hotel Pickup: $50
  • Volcanic Sunset Cruise: $58
  • Santorini Traditional Villages and Oia Sunset Tour: $62
  • Santorini-Classic Tour in Traditional Villages: $67
  • Santorini-Classic Tour in Traditional Villages: $71

Tours and Activities in Portimao

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

  • 1 Hour - Express tour to Benagil Cave: $28
  • 2 Hours Portimão Walking Tour: $20
  • 2.5-Hour Cruise to Benagil Caves From Portimão: $37
  • 2h30min Private Benagil Caves Tour & Snorkeing & Cliff-jumping with Lots of fun!: $373
  • Afternoon Sailing and Caves Tour from Portimao: $44
  • Algarve Coastline Tour from Portimao jeep and boat tour: $75
  • Algarve Jeep Safari tours: $38
  • Benagil & Marinha Boat Tour: $44
  • Benagil - Private Tour with Captain - Algarve Cave Captain: $348
  • Benagil Boat Tour with Local Guide: $35
  • Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach Boat Tour from Portimao: $37
  • Benagil Caves Tour & Snorkeling & Cliff-jumping - lots of fun and adventure: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santorini €21
    Portimao €24

Sample the Local Flavors in Santorini

Also in Santorini, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • 4-Hours Santorini Vothonas Village Tour with Wine Tasting: $89
  • Authentic Santorinian Tour at Vothonas Village with Wine Tasting: $93
  • Half-Day Santorini Tour Vothonas Village with Wine Tasting: $93
  • Santorini-Wine Tour Αround Megalochori Village: $111
  • Sunset and Wine Tasting Tour by Electric Bike: $114
  • Santorini-Wine Tour Around Megalochori Village: $117
  • Santorini-Wine Tour Around Megalochori Village: $124
  • Santorini-Sunset Caldera’s View from Megalochori with Wine Tasting: $134
  • Santorini-Sunset Caldera’s View from Megalochori with Wine Tasting: $140
  • Half-Day Sunset Wine Tasting Tour in Santorini with Pick Up: $141
  • Santorini Wine Tasting and History Small Group Tour: $153
  • 4-Hour Sunset Wine Tour: $159

Sample the Local Flavors in Portimao

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

  • Portimão & Carvoeiro: Algarve Wine Tour in a VW T2 Van: $57
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $72
  • Algarve wine tour of two wine estates and lunch at hystorical town of Silves: $112
  • Algarve Wine Tour and Mountain Discovery With Lunch at Mountain Top: $144
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $207

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Santorini and Portimao, we can see that Santorini 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 Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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Santorini vs. Portimao Travel Comparison

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