A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zaragoza vs. Portofino for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zaragoza or Portofino?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Portofino, 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.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a cultural, historical, and compact city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portofino

Portofino is a picturesque, breathtaking, and opulent seaside village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Zaragoza and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zaragoza or Portofino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portofino. Although Zaragoza and Portofino are both popular with visitors, Portofino has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portofino is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zaragoza is known for its museums. Portofino is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. It is also home to its scenic harbor. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

Its scenic harbor

How is Zaragoza different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zaragoza or Portofino?

Zaragoza is notable for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

Zaragoza offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

Is the Food Better in Zaragoza or Portofino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Zaragoza and Portofino can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Dining out in Zaragoza is an experience not to be missed. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Portofino is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Portofino has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for its resorts. However, Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Portofino offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Portofino is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Portofino has a beach worth visiting. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Zaragoza and Portofino both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Zaragoza to see the historical old town. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Portofino is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Portofino is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Portofino is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zaragoza or Portofino?

Both Zaragoza and Portofino are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Families?

Zaragoza is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly place to visit. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for couples. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Portofino has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zaragoza is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Students?

Zaragoza is a popular place for students. However, Portofino is not popular with students.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Portofino is not popular with students.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zaragoza is notable for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Zaragoza or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino is an amazing seaside village to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Portofino on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Zaragoza Worth Visiting? and Is Portofino Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Zaragoza?

How long in Zaragoza or Portofino?

In either Zaragoza or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Zaragoza because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Zaragoza, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zaragoza than Portofino 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 Zaragoza.

One day in Zaragoza or Portofino?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Zaragoza. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zaragoza has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Zaragoza or Portofino?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Zaragoza. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Portofino is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this seaside village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portofino, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Zaragoza or Portofino?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Zaragoza. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Zaragoza or Portofino?

Zaragoza is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Portofino is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This seaside village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Portofino?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 1230 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza and Portofino, 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.