A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Portland for Music, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Stockholm or Portland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Stockholm and Portland can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a clean, coastal, and safe city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Stockholm is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). 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.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stockholm or Portland?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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 Stockholm or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

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 Stockholm or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

Stockholm has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm or Portland Better for Music?

Stockholm is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

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 Stockholm or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is very popular for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Stockholm has a world-famous historical area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Stockholm or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Stockholm 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.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Portland?

Stockholm is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Stockholm or Portland Better for Families?

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

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm or Portland Better for Couples?

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

Stockholm is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Portland Better for Students?

Stockholm and Portland are nice places to visit for students.

Stockholm is popular with students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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.

Is Stockholm or Portland a more walkable city?

Stockholm is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Stockholm. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stockholm and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Portland. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stockholm 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 Stockholm.

One day in Stockholm or Portland?

Stockholm is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Stockholm or Portland?

Stockholm 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stockholm, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the quirky 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 Stockholm or Portland?

Stockholm is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stockholm, 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 tree-lined 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 Stockholm or Portland?

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer. This 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Stockholm and Portland, we can see that Portland 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. Even though Stockholm is in Europe and Portland is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Portland?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Portland. The summer months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In July, Stockholm is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), 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 Stockholm this time of the year. In the summer, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Portland. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Stockholm is much colder than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Portland. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stockholm or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Stockholm during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stockholm. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Portland. Stockholm gets 40 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. Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Portland. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Stockholm is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Portland. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Stockholm