A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stockholm vs. Porto for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Stockholm or Porto?

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 Porto 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 expensive, beautiful, and clean city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Porto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Porto. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Stockholm is very popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Porto attracts visitors for its food. 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). Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Porto 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 Porto?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Stockholm and Porto.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Is the Food Better in Stockholm or Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Stockholm or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Stockholm and Porto.

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Many people head to Porto for the nightlife scene. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Stockholm or Porto Better for Music?

Stockholm is very popular for live music. However, Porto is not a live music destination.

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.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Porto?

Stockholm is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Stockholm or Porto Better for Families?

Stockholm is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Stockholm is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Porto is a very kid-friendly city. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Stockholm or Porto Better for Couples?

Stockholm is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Stockholm 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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Stockholm or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto Better for Students?

Porto is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. 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.

Is Stockholm or Porto 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, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Porto has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Is Stockholm or Porto a more walkable city?

Stockholm is very popular for its walkability. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its high level of walkability.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. 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.

Porto is a very walkable city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Porto?

In either Stockholm or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than Porto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Porto. 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 Porto. 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 Porto than Stockholm 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 Porto.

One day in Stockholm or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Porto. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Porto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Porto?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the historic port city of Porto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

A week in Stockholm or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Stockholm has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Porto?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm and Porto, 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 Porto?

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 Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto and Stockholm during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Stockholm is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Stockholm. In the summer, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Porto. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Porto. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Stockholm is much colder than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Porto during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Porto. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stockholm or Porto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Porto. The winter months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

The weather in Stockholm can be very cold. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Porto. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Stockholm is generally much colder than Porto. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Porto during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Porto. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Stockholm