A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Venice vs. Portland for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Venice or Portland?

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 Venice and Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Venice and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Portland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Venice than Portland. While Portland is larger than Venice, Venice has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Venice is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Portland is more popular for its nightlife, music, hiking, and small town charm. Venice is more touristy than Portland and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Also, Venice is famous for St. Mark's Basilica. Portland is well 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.

How is Venice different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Venice from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Venice is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Venice. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

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 Venice or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for its music scene. However, Venice is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Venice is not a live music destination.

Is Venice or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Venice is very popular for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

Venice has a world-famous historical area. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Venice or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Portland?

Venice is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Venice. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice or Portland Better for Families?

Venice is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Venice is a very family-friendly destination. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Portland Better for Couples?

Venice is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Venice is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Venice or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Venice and Portland are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Venice or Portland Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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 Venice or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Venice has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice or Portland a more walkable city?

Venice is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Venice?

How long in Venice or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Venice and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Portland. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

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

One day in Venice or Portland?

The beautiful city of Venice offers food and shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Venice or Portland?

Venice 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Venice or Portland?

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Venice or Portland?

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Portland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Venice and Portland, we can see that Venice is more expensive. And not only is Portland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Venice is in Europe and Portland is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Portland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Portland 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice than you might in Portland.

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

Which is Bigger, Venice or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 100% larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Portland. Many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Venice is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Venice in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Venice usually receives more rain than Portland. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Venice or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Venice as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Venice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Venice is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 14°C (57°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Venice often gets less sunshine than Portland. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. Venice can be very cold during winter. Venice is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Venice usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during winter. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Venice usually receives less rain than Portland. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Venice or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Venice during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Venice because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the spring, Venice is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Venice in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Venice often gets less sunshine than Portland. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Portland. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Venice