A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tenerife vs. Porto for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Tenerife or Porto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tenerife or Porto, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a vibrant, adventure-filled, and beautiful island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Porto

Porto is a cultural, cosmopolitan, and dynamic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Porto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Tenerife and Porto are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Tenerife is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Tenerife is more touristy than Porto and is known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira.

How is Tenerife different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tenerife or Porto?

Porto is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Porto is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Porto is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Tenerife is very popular for nightlife. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife and partying.

Tenerife is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Tenerife or Porto Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Porto is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Tenerife. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is a great island for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Tenerife is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

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.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is very popular for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Tenerife specifically for its hiking. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Porto?

Tenerife is a great island 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 Tenerife. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Families?

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is one of the most popular family destinations. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

Porto is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Tenerife or Porto Better for Couples?

Tenerife and Porto are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Tenerife makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Tenerife or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Tenerife is a good island to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Students?

Porto is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife is not popular with students.

Porto is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

Is Tenerife or Porto Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Public transit in Porto is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

Is Tenerife or Porto a more walkable city?

Porto is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Porto is very walkable. 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.

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Porto?

In either Tenerife or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tenerife than Porto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tenerife, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Porto?

In Tenerife, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this adventure-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

Porto 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.

A weekend in Tenerife or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tenerife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port 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 Porto, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Tenerife or Porto?

Tenerife is a fun place to experience. In Tenerife, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Porto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Porto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Tenerife or Porto?

In Tenerife, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this scenic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Porto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Tenerife and Porto, we can see that Tenerife 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Tenerife or Porto?

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 Tenerife or Porto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tenerife and Porto. Most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Porto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Tenerife is a little warmer than Porto in the summer. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tenerife usually receives less sunshine than Porto during summer. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Porto. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tenerife or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Porto. The autumn months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In the autumn, Tenerife is a little warmer than Porto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tenerife in October average around 22°C (72°F), and Porto averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. In the autumn, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Porto. Tenerife gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Tenerife usually gets less rain in October than Porto. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Tenerife is generally much warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 17°C (63°F), and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Tenerife usually receives more sunshine than Porto during winter. Tenerife gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In January, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Porto. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tenerife or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Tenerife during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Tenerife is a little warmer than Porto in the spring. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 18°C (64°F) in April, and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tenerife. In the spring, Tenerife often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Porto. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tenerife usually gets less rain in April than Porto. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Porto and Tenerife