A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Porto for Food, Old Town, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Zurich or Porto?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Porto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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.

Zurich and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Porto?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Porto than Zurich. While Zurich is larger than Porto, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Zurich attracts visitors for its music, historical sights, and shopping. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Zurich different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Zurich and Porto.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Porto offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Porto is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Porto, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Zurich or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Porto are high quality when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Porto has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Zurich or Porto Better for Music?

Zurich is a great city for live music. However, Porto is not a live music destination.

Zurich has a thriving music scene. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Porto is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Zurich is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its old town.

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Porto?

Zurich is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Zurich. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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

Is Zurich or Porto Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Porto are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Porto. 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 Zurich or Porto Better for Couples?

Zurich and Porto both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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

Porto is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Zurich or Porto Better for Students?

Zurich is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Porto is a great 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.

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

Both Zurich and Porto offer high quality public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

The public transit in Porto can get you to most places easily. 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.

Is Zurich or Porto a more walkable city?

Zurich and Porto both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

Porto is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Porto?

In either Zurich or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zurich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zurich than Porto. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this liberal destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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.

Porto 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 Zurich or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Porto?

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Zurich or Porto?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Porto. This port 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Porto?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Porto, 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 Zurich or Porto?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zurich or Porto in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Porto. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Porto. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Porto. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Porto in the Autumn?

Both Porto and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Porto during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Porto. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Zurich during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Porto. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zurich usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Porto in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Porto. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In April, Zurich is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Porto during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Zurich usually receives less rain than Porto. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Zurich