A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Stuttgart vs. Portland for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Stuttgart or Portland?

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

Should I visit Stuttgart or Portland? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a commercial, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the live music, hiking, and shopping.

Stuttgart and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stuttgart or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stuttgart. Although Stuttgart and Portland are about the same size, Stuttgart has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Stuttgart is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Stuttgart and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Stuttgart is well known for its many automobile museums including the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Also, Stuttgart is famous for The Mercedes-Benz Museum.

How is Stuttgart different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Stuttgart is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Stuttgart is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city's influence over the car industry is reflected in the museums in town. You can visit both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Also check out Schlossplatz, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and Altes Schloss and Landesmuseum while you're in town.

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 Stuttgart or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stuttgart is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Stuttgart. The city blends traditional German flavors with modern twists. You'll find much more than the standard bratworsts that so many people associate with German cuisine. One favorite dish is maultaschen, which is like a ravioli. Also make sure you try spätzle, zwiebelrostbraten (roast and onions) and flädlesuppe (soup with long pasta).

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 Stuttgart or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

Stuttgart has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene stays active late into the evening. You'll find no shortage of clubs, bars, music venues, and beer gardens. You'll meet a combination of locals, tourists, students, and expats at many venues.

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 Stuttgart or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Stuttgart is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Stuttgart is not a live music destination.

Is Stuttgart or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Stuttgart is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Stuttgart or Portland?

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart. The city is filled with pedestrian shopping streets as well as flea markets and major shopping malls. The main shopping street in town is Koenigstrasse, where you'll find many upscale boutiques. For a local food market head to Markthalle Stuttgart. The flagship store of the Breuninger chain is also found in Stuttgart.

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 Stuttgart or Portland Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Stuttgart or Portland.

Stuttgart is a family-friendly city. Like many German city's, there's a great zoo to explore. There's also some unique museums like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Kids will also enjoy taking in the view from the top of the Fernsehturm.

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 Stuttgart or Portland Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Stuttgart and Portland make for a notable place to visit.

Stuttgart is a good city for couples to visit. The city is large enough to have some nice romantic hotels, spas, luxury restaurants, and other activities that make for a great date night.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. 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 Stuttgart or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Stuttgart is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's not on the backpacker circuit for most people but there are still plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation options. You'll also find plenty of activities and affordable restaurants to choose from.

Is Stuttgart or Portland Better for Students?

Stuttgart is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Stuttgart. It's an international city with great universities and a friendly and central location. There's also a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do.

Portland is popular with students. 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 Stuttgart or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Visitors to Stuttgart can move around easily with public transportation. The city's transit system includes buses, the U‑Bahn and the S‑Bahn. The U-Bahn is a denser train system in the city center and the S-Bahn covers more distance and reaches into the suburbs with stops that are more spread out.

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 Stuttgart or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Stuttgart is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Stuttgart?

How long in Stuttgart or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stuttgart and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stuttgart than in Portland. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Stuttgart, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Stuttgart 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 Portland.

One day in Stuttgart or Portland?

Stuttgart is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Stuttgart or Portland?

Stuttgart 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart or Portland?

Stuttgart is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. 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 nature-filled 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 Stuttgart or Portland?

Stuttgart is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, 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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stuttgart or Portland?

Stuttgart has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart or Portland?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Stuttgart are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stuttgart in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Stuttgart is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stuttgart in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stuttgart. Stuttgart usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Stuttgart gets 238 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stuttgart usually receives more rain than Portland. Stuttgart gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Stuttgart during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Stuttgart for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stuttgart is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in Stuttgart average around 13°C (56°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Stuttgart often gets less sunshine than Portland. Stuttgart gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Stuttgart gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Portland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stuttgart and Portland. The winter months attract visitors to Stuttgart because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Stuttgart can be very cold. Stuttgart is cooler than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Stuttgart averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Stuttgart usually receives less sunshine than Portland during winter. Stuttgart gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Portland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Stuttgart usually receives less rain than Portland. Stuttgart gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Portland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Stuttgart as well as Portland. The activities around the city are the main draw to Stuttgart this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Stuttgart is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stuttgart in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. In the spring, Stuttgart often gets less sunshine than Portland. Stuttgart gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Portland. Stuttgart gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Stuttgart