dessert
Lisbon vs Porto: How To Choose Which City To Visit?
Last updated on April 3rd, 2025 at 03:34 pm
Ah the classic Portugal dilemma. You’ve heard about both Lisbon and Porto and now you’re trying to decide which one to sacrifice on your Europe trip and/or if there’s a way you can cram them both into your itinerary to decide “Is Porto or Lisbon better? Can I visit both?” Trying to decide between Lisbon vs Porto is like choosing between pastel de nata and a glass of port. Both are amazing, just in different ways.
Lisbon is the classic European, sun-soaked capital, with world-class dining and where every miradouro (viewpoint) looks straight out of a postcard. On the flipside, Porto has a moodier and cozier charm, with its iconic blue-tiled churches, and a deep love affair with port wine. But which one should you visit?
In this article, I’m going to break down all things Lisbon vs Porto including how to get there, where to stay in Porto vs Lisbon, and which city wins in the food and drink department. I’m also going to cover the best time to visit Portugal, differences in nightlife, overall cost, the best things to do, and so much more.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which city fits your vibe. Or if you should just say f*ck it and visit both. So let’s get into it 👇
Read more on Portugal 🇵🇹
- A First-Timer’s Guide To The Best 2-Day Itinerary in Porto, Portugal
- The Ultimate 3-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Algarve, Portugal
- Discover Portugal With The Best 3 Day Lisbon Itinerary
This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lisbon vs Porto: Getting There
Is Porto or Lisbon better for flights? The great thing about Portugal is that it’s relatively easy to reach from the states. Lisbon is probably still going to be a little bit easier to get to than Porto just because there are more direct flights to LIS than there are to OPO.
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is Portugal’s largest international hub. So you’ll typically find way more nonstop flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Boston, and even San Francisco. I’ve seen a ton of nonstops from TAP Air Portugal that are pretty affordable by today’s flight standards.
For more details on how I score the best flight deals, check out my credit card strategy here.
Porto, on the other hand, requires a bit more effort. While Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) does have some direct flights from Newark (thanks to TAP Air Portugal), most U.S. travelers will need a layover. Typically in Lisbon, Madrid, or another European hub. However, if Porto is your final destination, the airport is well-connected, modern, and only about 20 minutes from the city center by metro or taxi. So no sleep-deprived long car rides after a transatlantic flight 😴
If you’re open to flying into Lisbon and taking a train or a short domestic flight to Porto, that’s always an option. It’s not bad at all I promise! One of my biggest travel tips for Portugal is to not get tricked into thinking you need to sacrifice one city for the other. In reality, you could totally visit both in one trip!
The high-speed train takes about 3 hours and is a smooth, scenic ride. But if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to hit the ground running the second you land, Lisbon’s easier accessibility might tip the scales in its favor.
Main Takeaway: Lisbon is the easier choice for U.S. travelers, with more direct flights and fewer layovers, while Porto usually requires a connection. However, if Porto is your final destination, a quick train or domestic flight from Lisbon is a solid option.
Lisbon vs Porto: Accommodation
Is Porto or Lisbon better for boutique hotels? Portugal is one of my favorite countries for incredible boutique hotels. There are so many options for beautiful design-forward stays no matter where you go! In Lisbon, the boutique hotels are usually stylish and modern, set in historic buildings with rooftop bars and trendy interiors. Porto, on the other hand, is all about the affordable cozy vibes and riverside townhouses along the Douro River.
There are also plenty of Airbnbs in both Lisbon and Porto, but you know that I’m all about the boutique hotels. I totally get that Airbnbs make sense for certain situations (kids, large groups, etc) so you can’t go wrong with the Airbnbs in either city.
Personally, there’s just something about staying in a boutique spot that hits differently. Whether it’s the unique design, personalized service, or the feeling of being in a hidden gem that’s totally off the beaten path, I don’t think my love for boutique hotels are going anywhere anytime soon. Even after I eventually have kids haha.
Staying in Porto, Portugal
Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Porto, Portugal:
- Bloom House By Sweet Porto, for a central boutique stay, located steps away from Santa Catarina Street. This is where I stayed when I visited and absolutely loved it here. It was clean, quiet, affordable, and super spacious. Plus, the location was amazing and getting everywhere was really convenient.
- Wine & Books Porto Hotel, a cozy literary-inspired stay with a side of Porto’s best wines. I know Portugal’s wine region isn’t as prestigious as France but it’s definitely up there. Plus, this property is apart of one of my absolute favorite hotel brands, SLH
- PortoBay Teatro, for a chic upscale hotel located only a 3-minute walk from the nearest metro station, a 7-minute walk from the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão bookshop, and right around the corner from the Casa da Música concert hall.
Staying in Lisbon, Portugal
Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Lisbon, Portugal:
- Memmo Alfama — Design hotels, for a design-forward stay with unmatched views of Alfama and the Tagus River. Definitely my top-pick especially since it’s in the Marriott family of hotels and I’m a recent Bonvoy aficionado
- The Vintage Lisbon, for a luxurious retreat with a soothing spa and chic ambiance
- Lisbon Wine Hotel, for a wine-lover’s paradise, offering a unique experience centered around Portugal’s best wines
- AlmaLusa Baixa & Chiado, for a blend of local charm and modern comfort in the heart of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighborhoods
Main Takeaway: Lisbon’s all about modern, stylish stays with a lively vibe, while Porto offers a more charming experience with boutique hotels that feel like home.
Lisbon vs Porto: Food & Drink
Oh man. This is probably the hardest section of this article haha. I mean, choosing where to eat (and what to eat) is probably the hardest decision one has to make. Even in everyday life when deciding what to eat for dinner 😂
You would think that the food in Porto vs Lisbon would be relatively the same but it’s actually not. In Lisbon, you’re diving into a foodie’s dream. Also kind of an upscale foodie’s dream if that’s what you’re after. Lisbon is bursting with fresh seafood, classic Portuguese dishes, and a coffee culture that’s downright addictive. Of course, you’ve got your pastéis de nata (the custard tarts that are basically iconic at this point), bacalhau (salted cod), and grilled sardines, all served up with a side of history.
But here’s where it gets next level: Lisbon’s Michelin restaurant scene is top-tier, with several spots earning multiple stars like Alma and Belcanto ⭐️
From José Avillez’s innovative takes on Portuguese cuisine to more classic fine dining options, you’re in for a gourmet experience. Lisbon also has a world-class bar scene with several bars making it onto the World’s 50 Best Bars list.
There’s still really good food in Porto but they kinda take things in a different direction. This city is all about hearty, comfort food with a focus on local specialties like the francesinha from Brasão Cervejaria which is basically a sandwich that’s a heart attack on a plate.
Porto also has its own seafood game, but it’s more about river fish and rich stews. And of course, the city is famous for its port wine, so make sure you take a tour through the famous port wine caves and sip your way through history.
Main Takeaway: Lisbon offers a dynamic mix of Michelin-starred dining, creative cocktails, and a fusion of modern and traditional flavors, while Porto shines with hearty comfort food and a world-renowned port wine scene. I don’t think there’s a clear winner between Lisbon vs Porto for food. Both cities will deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
Lisbon vs Porto: Vibes & Atmosphere
Before I visited Lisbon and Porto, I didn’t think the vibes would really be that different but looking back, I definitely think that each city has its own unique atmosphere to it. So is Lisbon or Porto better for vibes? ✨
Lisbon is definitely the brighter and bolder city with rooftop bars, endless energy, top-rated restaurants, and cool street art. Whereas Porto is more laid-back with slightly less tourists and a more intimate feel. Both are incredible, but definitely slightly different.
If you’ve never been to Europe…then I’d probably recommend visiting Lisbon. It’s a great “entry city” to broader western Europe. However, if this is your 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 18th trip to Europe — I’d tell you to skip Lisbon and head directly to Porto. (And then I’d tell you to continue further south down to the Algarve for some real Portuguese scenery).
Main Takeaway: Lisbon is bold, vibrant, and packed with energy, while Porto feels more relaxed and intimate, with fewer tourists and a cozier atmosphere. If it’s your first time in Europe, go for Lisbon as an ideal introduction to Europe but if you’ve been around the block a few times, Porto offers an off-the-beaten-path experience worth exploring.
Lisbon vs Porto: Nightlife
Let’s face it. You’re in Europe (probably on vacation but maybe not). The vibes at both of these cities will be high with plenty of bars, clubs, music venues, and more to keep you entertained. I honestly feel like if you want to go out… you’ll find a way. And both Lisbon and Porto are super fun places to go out!
Lisbon’s nightlife is a mix of old-school charm, rowdy street parties, and trendy, late-night spots that somehow make staying out until sunrise feel like a great idea. You’ve got the historic Bairro Alto, where tiny bars serve cheap drinks, and the entire neighborhood turns into a lively, open-air party. I’d say the crowd definitely errs on the younger side here. Then there’s Pink Street, once a red-light district, now a neon-lit hub of cocktail bars, dance clubs, and questionable decisions. If you’re after something a little more artsy, LX Factory has an effortlessly cool, industrial-chic energy, with rooftop bars and craft cocktails. So if you’re wondering, is Porto or Lisbon better for nightlife? Lisbon definitely brings the party.
Just because it’s more of a “late-night” destination but again… it’s Europe so you can always party until sunrise if that’s what you want!
Porto’s nightlife is a little less chaotic than Lisbon’s but just as fun. Think more intimate bars, live music, and a whole lot of port wine-fueled good vibes. The Ribeira district sets the scene with cozy riverfront bars perfect for a slow start, while Galerias de Paris is where the real party kicks in.
This lively street is packed with bars and clubs, and on weekends, it turns into a full-blown outdoor party.
If you’re into live music, Porto delivers, from jazz bars to indie rock venues that feel straight out of a cool underground scene.
And of course, no night out is complete without a stop at one of the many port wine cellars—because when in Porto… 🍷
Main Takeaway: Lisbon’s nightlife is the classic European experience (buzzy bars, packed clubs, and wild nights). Porto, on the other hand kind offers more intimate vibes with cozy wine bars and live music, but if you’re chasing a sunrise by the water, both cities definitely deliver.
Lisbon vs Porto: Things to Do
This is another category where I’m not convinced there’s a true winner. There’s soooo much to do in both Porto and Lisbon that I think you’d be happy visiting either one! They’re both near beautiful bodies of water, packed with history and cultural significance, and offer plenty of great day trips to other towns. So when it comes to is Porto or Lisbon better for things to do? Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either.
In Lisbon, you’ve got the iconic Belem Tower, the stunning Jerónimos Monastery, and the panoramic views from São Jorge Castle. (It’s easily one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon). There’s also Alfama which is the city’s oldest district, filled with small windy streets (perfect for street photography) and traditional Fado music. Lisbon also has really cool “market” spaces (idk what they’re called) but it’s basically a large area filled with different eateries and shops like LX Factory and Time Out Market.
You can also find really cool and unique experiences in Lisbon such as…
- Pastel de Nata Baking Class ($58 USD/person) – this is definitely where you’d find me haha since I love eating my heart out in Europe.
- A day trip to Sintra, Pena, Regaleira, Cabo da Roca & Cascais ($52 USD/person)
- Sunset Boat Party Cruise with DJ and Open Bar ($26 USD/person)
And then in Porto, you’ve got the Ribeira district which gives you a picturesque riverfront stroll, while Livraria Lello (one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores) will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a real life Harry Potter movie.
Porto’s also home to the historic São Bento Station, Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas, and Church of São Francisco which are ALL covered in stunning blue tiles from floor to ceiling.
I’m almost CERTAIN you’ll never witness any buildings like these outside of Portugal! And if you do, tell me because I’ll book my next flight there to see them.
There’s also just as many fun activities in Porto as well like…
- Six Bridges Cruise on a typical Rabelo boat ($18 USD/person)
- Tile Painting and Cocktails in Downtown Porto ($41 USD/person)
- Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch ($73 USD/person) – this is an absolute must. It’s practically illegal to visit the birthplace of Port wine and not check out Douro Valley.
Main Takeaway: When it comes to Porto landmarks vs. Lisbon landmarks, there’s honestly no clear winner between the two. Both cities are packed with history, culture, and plenty to see and do. They also offer amazing day trips, whether it’s exploring Sintra’s fairytale palaces or sipping wine in the Douro Valley. So if you’re wondering is Porto or Lisbon better for sightseeing? It really depends on what you’re looking for!
Lisbon vs Porto: Cost
When it comes to travel costs, Lisbon itself tends to be slightly (but only slightly) pricier. Even if the flights are sometimes cheaper since it’s direct. It’s mostly because of bigger crowds, swankier hotels, and those trendy restaurants, especially in popular neighborhoods like Bairro Alto or Alfama.
On the flip side, Porto is usually the more travel budget friendly option. You can find great food, wine, and accommodation without feeling like you need to watch every penny. It’s important to point out that it’s not because Porto is “cheap”, but the city has a slightly more relaxed, “no need to impress” vibe, which often translates to lower prices.
Main Takeaway: Honestly, I think both cities are pretty comparable in terms of cost. Lisbon might be cheaper or easier to fly into, but you could end up spending a bit more on accommodation. On the other hand, Porto might cost a little more to get to, but you’ll save a bit on dining and hotels. Ultimately, both offer options for every budget, so it all depends on your priorities.
Lisbon vs Porto: Final Thoughts
I apologize in advance if my article wasn’t all that helpful because both of these cities are amazing haha so you really can’t go wrong! It all comes down to whether it’s your first time in Europe, how long you’re staying, and what kind of vibe you’re after.
Lisbon (aka San Francisco’s long-lost twin) is the trendier, busier, more upscale choice. Think rooftop bars, booze cruises, historic sites, and castle-hopping. Porto, on the other hand, is like Lisbon’s grungier little sister — a little less polished, more off-the-beaten-path, but with an unreal port wine (and regular wine) scene, plus easier access to Spain.
There’s no clear winner but I hope you found this post helpful in deciding which amazing Portuguese city to visit next!
Which one did you end up choosing? Did you get to visit both? Let me know in the comments below ⬇️
Visiting other parts of Portugal?
Check out my other travel guides on Portugal here.
Visiting other parts of Europe?
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?
Last updated on April 3rd, 2025 at 03:34 pm
Ah the classic Portugal dilemma. You’ve heard about both Lisbon and Porto and now you’re trying to decide which one to sacrifice on your Europe trip and/or if there’s a way you can cram them both into your itinerary to decide “Is Porto or Lisbon better? Can I visit both?” Trying to decide between Lisbon vs Porto is like choosing between pastel de nata and a glass of port. Both are amazing, just in different ways.
Lisbon is the classic European, sun-soaked capital, with world-class dining and where every miradouro (viewpoint) looks straight out of a postcard. On the flipside, Porto has a moodier and cozier charm, with its iconic blue-tiled churches, and a deep love affair with port wine. But which one should you visit?
In this article, I’m going to break down all things Lisbon vs Porto including how to get there, where to stay in Porto vs Lisbon, and which city wins in the food and drink department. I’m also going to cover the best time to visit Portugal, differences in nightlife, overall cost, the best things to do, and so much more.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which city fits your vibe. Or if you should just say f*ck it and visit both. So let’s get into it 👇
Read more on Portugal 🇵🇹
- A First-Timer’s Guide To The Best 2-Day Itinerary in Porto, Portugal
- The Ultimate 3-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Algarve, Portugal
- Discover Portugal With The Best 3 Day Lisbon Itinerary
This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lisbon vs Porto: Getting There
Is Porto or Lisbon better for flights? The great thing about Portugal is that it’s relatively easy to reach from the states. Lisbon is probably still going to be a little bit easier to get to than Porto just because there are more direct flights to LIS than there are to OPO.
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is Portugal’s largest international hub. So you’ll typically find way more nonstop flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Boston, and even San Francisco. I’ve seen a ton of nonstops from TAP Air Portugal that are pretty affordable by today’s flight standards.
For more details on how I score the best flight deals, check out my credit card strategy here.
Porto, on the other hand, requires a bit more effort. While Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) does have some direct flights from Newark (thanks to TAP Air Portugal), most U.S. travelers will need a layover. Typically in Lisbon, Madrid, or another European hub. However, if Porto is your final destination, the airport is well-connected, modern, and only about 20 minutes from the city center by metro or taxi. So no sleep-deprived long car rides after a transatlantic flight 😴
If you’re open to flying into Lisbon and taking a train or a short domestic flight to Porto, that’s always an option. It’s not bad at all I promise! One of my biggest travel tips for Portugal is to not get tricked into thinking you need to sacrifice one city for the other. In reality, you could totally visit both in one trip!
The high-speed train takes about 3 hours and is a smooth, scenic ride. But if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to hit the ground running the second you land, Lisbon’s easier accessibility might tip the scales in its favor.
Main Takeaway: Lisbon is the easier choice for U.S. travelers, with more direct flights and fewer layovers, while Porto usually requires a connection. However, if Porto is your final destination, a quick train or domestic flight from Lisbon is a solid option.
Lisbon vs Porto: Accommodation
Is Porto or Lisbon better for boutique hotels? Portugal is one of my favorite countries for incredible boutique hotels. There are so many options for beautiful design-forward stays no matter where you go! In Lisbon, the boutique hotels are usually stylish and modern, set in historic buildings with rooftop bars and trendy interiors. Porto, on the other hand, is all about the affordable cozy vibes and riverside townhouses along the Douro River.
There are also plenty of Airbnbs in both Lisbon and Porto, but you know that I’m all about the boutique hotels. I totally get that Airbnbs make sense for certain situations (kids, large groups, etc) so you can’t go wrong with the Airbnbs in either city.
Personally, there’s just something about staying in a boutique spot that hits differently. Whether it’s the unique design, personalized service, or the feeling of being in a hidden gem that’s totally off the beaten path, I don’t think my love for boutique hotels are going anywhere anytime soon. Even after I eventually have kids haha.
Staying in Porto, Portugal
Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Porto, Portugal:
- Bloom House By Sweet Porto, for a central boutique stay, located steps away from Santa Catarina Street. This is where I stayed when I visited and absolutely loved it here. It was clean, quiet, affordable, and super spacious. Plus, the location was amazing and getting everywhere was really convenient.
- Wine & Books Porto Hotel, a cozy literary-inspired stay with a side of Porto’s best wines. I know Portugal’s wine region isn’t as prestigious as France but it’s definitely up there. Plus, this property is apart of one of my absolute favorite hotel brands, SLH
- PortoBay Teatro, for a chic upscale hotel located only a 3-minute walk from the nearest metro station, a 7-minute walk from the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão bookshop, and right around the corner from the Casa da Música concert hall.
Staying in Lisbon, Portugal
Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Lisbon, Portugal:
- Memmo Alfama — Design hotels, for a design-forward stay with unmatched views of Alfama and the Tagus River. Definitely my top-pick especially since it’s in the Marriott family of hotels and I’m a recent Bonvoy aficionado
- The Vintage Lisbon, for a luxurious retreat with a soothing spa and chic ambiance
- Lisbon Wine Hotel, for a wine-lover’s paradise, offering a unique experience centered around Portugal’s best wines
- AlmaLusa Baixa & Chiado, for a blend of local charm and modern comfort in the heart of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighborhoods
Main Takeaway: Lisbon’s all about modern, stylish stays with a lively vibe, while Porto offers a more charming experience with boutique hotels that feel like home.
Lisbon vs Porto: Food & Drink
Oh man. This is probably the hardest section of this article haha. I mean, choosing where to eat (and what to eat) is probably the hardest decision one has to make. Even in everyday life when deciding what to eat for dinner 😂
You would think that the food in Porto vs Lisbon would be relatively the same but it’s actually not. In Lisbon, you’re diving into a foodie’s dream. Also kind of an upscale foodie’s dream if that’s what you’re after. Lisbon is bursting with fresh seafood, classic Portuguese dishes, and a coffee culture that’s downright addictive. Of course, you’ve got your pastéis de nata (the custard tarts that are basically iconic at this point), bacalhau (salted cod), and grilled sardines, all served up with a side of history.
But here’s where it gets next level: Lisbon’s Michelin restaurant scene is top-tier, with several spots earning multiple stars like Alma and Belcanto ⭐️
From José Avillez’s innovative takes on Portuguese cuisine to more classic fine dining options, you’re in for a gourmet experience. Lisbon also has a world-class bar scene with several bars making it onto the World’s 50 Best Bars list.
There’s still really good food in Porto but they kinda take things in a different direction. This city is all about hearty, comfort food with a focus on local specialties like the francesinha from Brasão Cervejaria which is basically a sandwich that’s a heart attack on a plate.
Porto also has its own seafood game, but it’s more about river fish and rich stews. And of course, the city is famous for its port wine, so make sure you take a tour through the famous port wine caves and sip your way through history.
Main Takeaway: Lisbon offers a dynamic mix of Michelin-starred dining, creative cocktails, and a fusion of modern and traditional flavors, while Porto shines with hearty comfort food and a world-renowned port wine scene. I don’t think there’s a clear winner between Lisbon vs Porto for food. Both cities will deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
Lisbon vs Porto: Vibes & Atmosphere
Before I visited Lisbon and Porto, I didn’t think the vibes would really be that different but looking back, I definitely think that each city has its own unique atmosphere to it. So is Lisbon or Porto better for vibes? ✨
Lisbon is definitely the brighter and bolder city with rooftop bars, endless energy, top-rated restaurants, and cool street art. Whereas Porto is more laid-back with slightly less tourists and a more intimate feel. Both are incredible, but definitely slightly different.
If you’ve never been to Europe…then I’d probably recommend visiting Lisbon. It’s a great “entry city” to broader western Europe. However, if this is your 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 18th trip to Europe — I’d tell you to skip Lisbon and head directly to Porto. (And then I’d tell you to continue further south down to the Algarve for some real Portuguese scenery).
Main Takeaway: Lisbon is bold, vibrant, and packed with energy, while Porto feels more relaxed and intimate, with fewer tourists and a cozier atmosphere. If it’s your first time in Europe, go for Lisbon as an ideal introduction to Europe but if you’ve been around the block a few times, Porto offers an off-the-beaten-path experience worth exploring.
Lisbon vs Porto: Nightlife
Let’s face it. You’re in Europe (probably on vacation but maybe not). The vibes at both of these cities will be high with plenty of bars, clubs, music venues, and more to keep you entertained. I honestly feel like if you want to go out… you’ll find a way. And both Lisbon and Porto are super fun places to go out!
Lisbon’s nightlife is a mix of old-school charm, rowdy street parties, and trendy, late-night spots that somehow make staying out until sunrise feel like a great idea. You’ve got the historic Bairro Alto, where tiny bars serve cheap drinks, and the entire neighborhood turns into a lively, open-air party. I’d say the crowd definitely errs on the younger side here. Then there’s Pink Street, once a red-light district, now a neon-lit hub of cocktail bars, dance clubs, and questionable decisions. If you’re after something a little more artsy, LX Factory has an effortlessly cool, industrial-chic energy, with rooftop bars and craft cocktails. So if you’re wondering, is Porto or Lisbon better for nightlife? Lisbon definitely brings the party.
Just because it’s more of a “late-night” destination but again… it’s Europe so you can always party until sunrise if that’s what you want!
Porto’s nightlife is a little less chaotic than Lisbon’s but just as fun. Think more intimate bars, live music, and a whole lot of port wine-fueled good vibes. The Ribeira district sets the scene with cozy riverfront bars perfect for a slow start, while Galerias de Paris is where the real party kicks in.
This lively street is packed with bars and clubs, and on weekends, it turns into a full-blown outdoor party.
If you’re into live music, Porto delivers, from jazz bars to indie rock venues that feel straight out of a cool underground scene.
And of course, no night out is complete without a stop at one of the many port wine cellars—because when in Porto… 🍷
Main Takeaway: Lisbon’s nightlife is the classic European experience (buzzy bars, packed clubs, and wild nights). Porto, on the other hand kind offers more intimate vibes with cozy wine bars and live music, but if you’re chasing a sunrise by the water, both cities definitely deliver.
Lisbon vs Porto: Things to Do
This is another category where I’m not convinced there’s a true winner. There’s soooo much to do in both Porto and Lisbon that I think you’d be happy visiting either one! They’re both near beautiful bodies of water, packed with history and cultural significance, and offer plenty of great day trips to other towns. So when it comes to is Porto or Lisbon better for things to do? Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either.
In Lisbon, you’ve got the iconic Belem Tower, the stunning Jerónimos Monastery, and the panoramic views from São Jorge Castle. (It’s easily one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon). There’s also Alfama which is the city’s oldest district, filled with small windy streets (perfect for street photography) and traditional Fado music. Lisbon also has really cool “market” spaces (idk what they’re called) but it’s basically a large area filled with different eateries and shops like LX Factory and Time Out Market.
You can also find really cool and unique experiences in Lisbon such as…
- Pastel de Nata Baking Class ($58 USD/person) – this is definitely where you’d find me haha since I love eating my heart out in Europe.
- A day trip to Sintra, Pena, Regaleira, Cabo da Roca & Cascais ($52 USD/person)
- Sunset Boat Party Cruise with DJ and Open Bar ($26 USD/person)
And then in Porto, you’ve got the Ribeira district which gives you a picturesque riverfront stroll, while Livraria Lello (one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores) will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a real life Harry Potter movie.
Porto’s also home to the historic São Bento Station, Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas, and Church of São Francisco which are ALL covered in stunning blue tiles from floor to ceiling.
I’m almost CERTAIN you’ll never witness any buildings like these outside of Portugal! And if you do, tell me because I’ll book my next flight there to see them.
There’s also just as many fun activities in Porto as well like…
- Six Bridges Cruise on a typical Rabelo boat ($18 USD/person)
- Tile Painting and Cocktails in Downtown Porto ($41 USD/person)
- Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch ($73 USD/person) – this is an absolute must. It’s practically illegal to visit the birthplace of Port wine and not check out Douro Valley.
Main Takeaway: When it comes to Porto landmarks vs. Lisbon landmarks, there’s honestly no clear winner between the two. Both cities are packed with history, culture, and plenty to see and do. They also offer amazing day trips, whether it’s exploring Sintra’s fairytale palaces or sipping wine in the Douro Valley. So if you’re wondering is Porto or Lisbon better for sightseeing? It really depends on what you’re looking for!
Lisbon vs Porto: Cost
When it comes to travel costs, Lisbon itself tends to be slightly (but only slightly) pricier. Even if the flights are sometimes cheaper since it’s direct. It’s mostly because of bigger crowds, swankier hotels, and those trendy restaurants, especially in popular neighborhoods like Bairro Alto or Alfama.
On the flip side, Porto is usually the more travel budget friendly option. You can find great food, wine, and accommodation without feeling like you need to watch every penny. It’s important to point out that it’s not because Porto is “cheap”, but the city has a slightly more relaxed, “no need to impress” vibe, which often translates to lower prices.
Main Takeaway: Honestly, I think both cities are pretty comparable in terms of cost. Lisbon might be cheaper or easier to fly into, but you could end up spending a bit more on accommodation. On the other hand, Porto might cost a little more to get to, but you’ll save a bit on dining and hotels. Ultimately, both offer options for every budget, so it all depends on your priorities.
Lisbon vs Porto: Final Thoughts
I apologize in advance if my article wasn’t all that helpful because both of these cities are amazing haha so you really can’t go wrong! It all comes down to whether it’s your first time in Europe, how long you’re staying, and what kind of vibe you’re after.
Lisbon (aka San Francisco’s long-lost twin) is the trendier, busier, more upscale choice. Think rooftop bars, booze cruises, historic sites, and castle-hopping. Porto, on the other hand, is like Lisbon’s grungier little sister — a little less polished, more off-the-beaten-path, but with an unreal port wine (and regular wine) scene, plus easier access to Spain.
There’s no clear winner but I hope you found this post helpful in deciding which amazing Portuguese city to visit next!
Which one did you end up choosing? Did you get to visit both? Let me know in the comments below ⬇️
Visiting other parts of Portugal?
Check out my other travel guides on Portugal here.
Visiting other parts of Europe?
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
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