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

Should you visit Warsaw or Lisbon?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Warsaw and Lisbon can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a historical, under-rated, and diverse city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Warsaw and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Warsaw or Lisbon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Warsaw. While Warsaw is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Warsaw and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Warsaw is well known for its historical position as a cultural and political center.

How is Warsaw different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Lisbon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Lisbon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Warsaw offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Warsaw is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Warsaw is not a live music destination.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Warsaw is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Lisbon. 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.

Warsaw is not a beach destination.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Warsaw. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Lisbon?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Warsaw offers some nice shopping areas. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Families?

Lisbon is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Warsaw is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a great city for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Warsaw makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lisbon. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Warsaw. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon Better for Students?

For students, both Warsaw and Lisbon are excellent places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

The public transit in Warsaw can get you around easily. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

Is Warsaw or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Lisbon?

Both Warsaw 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 Warsaw. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Warsaw, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Warsaw. 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 Warsaw. 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Warsaw. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Warsaw or Lisbon?

Warsaw 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.

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Warsaw or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Warsaw. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Warsaw or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Warsaw. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, 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 Warsaw and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Warsaw.

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

Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Lisbon?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Lisbon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Lisbon. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Warsaw is generally cooler than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around 19°C (65°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In Warsaw, it's very sunny this time of the year. Warsaw usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon during summer. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Warsaw usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Warsaw or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Lisbon. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Warsaw is much colder than Lisbon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. In the autumn, Warsaw often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Warsaw gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in October than Lisbon. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Lisbon in the Winter?

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

Warsaw can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Warsaw is much colder than Lisbon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Warsaw in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Lisbon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Warsaw usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during winter. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. In January, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Warsaw or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Warsaw during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Warsaw because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

In April, Warsaw is generally much colder than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around 9°C (47°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Warsaw. In the spring, Warsaw often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in April than Lisbon. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Warsaw