A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Strasbourg vs. Portofino for Old Town, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Strasbourg or Portofino?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Strasbourg and Portofino can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a picturesque, impressive, and quaint city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portofino

Portofino is a breathtaking, opulent, and exclusive seaside village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Strasbourg and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Portofino?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Portofino. Although Strasbourg and Portofino are popular destinations, Portofino has more sights and attractions for tourists. Portofino is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Strasbourg attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Portofino is more touristy than Strasbourg and is popular for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. It is also well known for its scenic harbor. Strasbourg is famous for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

Its scenic harbor

How is Strasbourg different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Strasbourg or Portofino?

Strasbourg is notable for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

Strasbourg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

Is the Food Better in Strasbourg or Portofino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Strasbourg and Portofino both to be great destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Portofino is a great seaside village for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Portofino has something for everybody. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Portofino is a perfect choice. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Strasbourg is not a resort destination.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Portofino is very good for its beaches. However, Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Portofino to enjoy the beach. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Strasbourg is not a beach destination.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Strasbourg offers plenty to see. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Portofino is a great seaside village for hiking. However, Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portofino for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Portofino?

If you're looking to go shopping, Strasbourg and Portofino both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Portofino is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Families?

Strasbourg is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Portofino has plenty to offer. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Strasbourg is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Students?

Strasbourg is a popular place for students. However, Portofino is not popular with students.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Portofino is not popular with students.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Strasbourg is notable for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Strasbourg can get you to some places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Strasbourg or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Portofino is a very easy seaside village to get around on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting? and Is Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Portofino?

In either Strasbourg or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Strasbourg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Strasbourg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Strasbourg than Portofino 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 Strasbourg.

One day in Strasbourg or Portofino?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Strasbourg. 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.

Portofino might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Portofino?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the impressive destination of Strasbourg. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Even though Portofino is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this seaside village.

Five days in Strasbourg or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Strasbourg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portofino, a popular seaside village, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this seaside village. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Portofino?

Strasbourg 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.

Portofino is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Portofino?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg and Portofino, 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.