A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Portofino for Couples, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon and Portofino can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a peaceful, park-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the food and theater.

Portofino

Portofino is a glamorous, picturesque, and breathtaking seaside village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portofino than Stratford-upon-Avon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portofino is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Stratford-upon-Avon is more popular for its theatre productions. Portofino is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is popular for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. Also, Portofino is famous for its scenic harbor. Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

Its scenic harbor

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Portofino.

While most people don't head to Stratford-upon-Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Portofino offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Portofino is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Portofino is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Portofino is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Portofino has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Portofino is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Portofino has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Portofino is very good for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Portofino is a very popular place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Portofino is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Portofino. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Portofino is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Portofino is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Families?

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly place to visit. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Stratford-upon-Avon and Portofino.

Public transit is mostly limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Public transit is generally 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 Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

In either Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

Couples should spend more time in Portofino than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Portofino than Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Portofino.

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Even though Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Portofino, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this quaint small town offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town where visitors enjoy the theater and food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Portofino for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portofino, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Portofino, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful small town offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portofino, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portofino. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside village offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Stratford-upon-Avon and Portofino, we can see that Portofino is more expensive. And not only is Stratford-upon-Avon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Stratford-upon-Avon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon.

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

Which is Bigger, Stratford-upon-Avon or Portofino?

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Stratford-upon-Avon 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.