A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Volos vs. Lisbon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Volos or Lisbon?

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 Volos and Lisbon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a youthful, authentic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Volos and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Volos or Lisbon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Volos and Lisbon are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Volos is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Lisbon is more touristy than Volos and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Volos is popular for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty.

How is Volos different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Volos or Lisbon?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.

Is the Food Better in Volos or Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Dining out in Volos is an experience not to be missed. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Lisbon just to party. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Volos is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Volos is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Volos is not a live music destination.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Volos has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Volos is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Volos is considered a top beach destination. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Volos does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Volos does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Lisbon?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Many visitors go to Volos to go shopping. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lisbon is very family-friendly. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Volos. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

Is Volos or Lisbon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

You'll find some public transit in Volos, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that travels around town.

Is Volos or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Volos 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 Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Volos is a very walkable destination. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Volos Worth Visiting? and Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Volos?

How long in Volos or Lisbon?

Both Volos and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Volos. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volos, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Volos 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 Lisbon.

One day in Volos or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Volos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

A weekend in Volos or Lisbon?

Volos 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Five days in Volos or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volos. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Lisbon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Volos or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Volos. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Lisbon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Volos or Lisbon?

Volos has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Volos and Lisbon, 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 Volos or Lisbon?

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 Volos or Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Volos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Volos for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Volos is a little warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volos in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Lisbon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volos. Volos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon during summer. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volos usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Volos or Lisbon in the Autumn?

Both Lisbon and Volos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Volos because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

In October, Volos is generally cooler than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 17°C (62°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Volos often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in October than Lisbon. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volos or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Volos and Lisbon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Volos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Volos is much colder than Lisbon in the winter. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Volos usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during winter. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Volos usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Volos or Lisbon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Volos as well as Lisbon. Many travelers come to Volos for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Volos is cooler than Lisbon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Volos in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Lisbon averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volos this time of the year. In the spring, Volos often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in April than Lisbon. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Volos