Consider yourself lucky if you have to decide between Lisbon vs Porto for your next vacation. Both cities are incredibly beautiful and full of culture. That’s why whatever you decide you can’t go wrong. You will think you made the right decision!
Though both cities are equally gorgeous, they are quite different too. Nature has blessed Portugal with splendid scenery all around the country. The same can be said about the Portuguese. They will make you feel at home everywhere.
That’s where the similarities end. I’ve been to both countless times and have the information you need to decide. I’m sure you’ll be so happy with your decision that you will want to visit the other one soon!
Quick Comparison
Lisbon and Porto are both coastal cities over the Atlantic Ocean. Both metropolis sprawl along a river. The terrain is also hilly in both. Since Porto is north, it can be colder in the winter. The temperature in the summer is mostly the same.
The biggest difference is the size of each city. Approximately half a million people live in Lisbon, while 240,000 do so in Porto. However, Porto has an area of 16 sq miles (41 km2), and Lisbon of 38 sq miles (100 km2).
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal. It was also the center of the Portuguese Empire. That’s why its architecture is so grand. Today, it is the financial center of the country. The best modern architecture in Portugal is in Lisbon.
If You Have to Choose
You must decide whether to visit Porto or Lisbon based on your tastes and preferences. Choose Lisbon if this is your first trip to Europe. Then continue to other European capitals. Choose Porto if you’ve been to the continent before.
I have to be honest and admit that I like Lisbon a bit more than Porto. To me, it is one of the prettiest cities in the world. It rivals far more popular cities, such as Paris or London.
Choose Porto if you like medium-sized cities with tones of culture. Evidently, choose Porto if you like its famous wine. Go to Porto if you are not into crowds. More tourist visit Lisbon all year round.
Lisbon
You can go to Lisbon all year round, including winter. In the summer months, tourists visit the city and then elope to their favorite beach. Since the city enjoys mild winters, you can walk about without a glitch.
I love Lisbon because it combines superb architecture with gorgeous nature. The city is where the Tajo River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Green hills tower above the city. Thus, you will enjoy killer views everywhere you look.
Lisbon used to be the center of one of Europe’s most important empires. Historic architecture dots the city. Today, the Portuguese capital is a vibrant metropolis that attracts people from all over the world. Whatever you want, you will find it here.
Main Sights
Baixa is the historic center over the river. The city’s main plaza is here. From Commerce Plaza cross the Augusta Street Arch. Lisbon’s pedestrian Old Town starts here. The Santa Justa lift takes you to Carmo Convent above a hill.
You can see Castelo de Sao Jorge from everywhere in the city. You will fall in love with Alfama. The best views platforms in Lisbon are Santo Estavo and Santa Luzia. Check out the National Pantheon from the 17th Century.
For modern architecture, head to Parque das Nacoes, 5 miles (8 km) north of the center. Ride the cable car to enjoy priceless views of Vasco da Gama Bridge and beyond. Walk along Liberdade Boulevard to Eduardo VII Park. Spend time in Belem.
Museums
There are over 50 museums in Lisbon. I’ll mention the important ones. You have to visit the Lisbon Museum on Commerce Plaza. There’s a fascinating museum inside Castelo de Sao Jorge. The Fado Museum is in Alfama, next to the river.
Spend time in the National Museum of Ancient Art. The 17th-Century palace is as impressive as the collection inside. The Tile Museum is a 16th-Century Palace north of the center. Go to the Science Museum in Parque das Nacoes.
The country’s most important contemporary museum is in Belem, Museo Colecao Berardo. The MAAT Museum is next door, and is a must if you are visiting Lisbon with family. For modern art, visit Cordoaria Nacional inside an old rope factory in Belem. Walk to the National Coach Museum, a former horse riding arena.
Hotels
The best hotel in Lisbon is the Avenida Palace. Since it’s next to Rossio Square, you can walk everywhere. The hotel opened in 1892 to instant acclaim. Today, it features modern-day conveniences, lots of class, and impeccable service.
My favorite hotel in Alfama is the Hotel Convento do Salvador. It’s one of the oldest buildings in the city. The convent from 1392 has everything you ever dreamed of. Since it’s a small property, you have to book ahead of time!
If you are looking for apartments in Lisbon, I recommend Aurea Once Upon House. It’s a historic property two blocks from Praca do Comercio. Considering its class and location, the hotel is great value for money. Every unit is plush and fully equipped.
Restaurants and Bars
You will drink and eat like a king in Lisbon. You have to stop by A Brasileira, a couple of blocks from Praca do Comercio. The coffee house opened in 1905 and is still one of the best in the country.
There isn’t a single Portuguese that doesn’t know about Pastelaria Versailles, another historic restaurant. The fancy restaurant opened in 1922 on Republica Avenue, near Eduardo VII Park. Confeiteria Nacional is even older. It opened in 1829 on Figueira Square.
If you like wine, head to From the Vine in Bairro Alto. I go to the Associacao Loucos e Sonhadores to listen to live jazz and have cocktails with friends. The local elite dines at 100 Maneiras, also in Bairro Alto.
Moving Around
I love walking about Lisbon even in winter. You will be able to walk everywhere, but be sure to grab a coat, an umbrella, and proper shoes. It can get hot in the summer. Thus, wear a hat and some sunscreen.
Lisbon has a good bike-sharing system. There are stations almost everywhere. The system is in English and very easy to operate. My favorite bike ride is along the river. Since the city is safe, you can bike at all times.
The city has four metro lines that open from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM. There are also 6 tram lines. Don’t forget to ride Tram 28. Buses cross the entire city from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM and less frequently at night.
Day Trips
Even if you are short of time, you must go to Sintra or Cascais. In all honesty, spend at least a night in each. The palaces and parks in Sintra are epic! The best hotel in Sintra is the Tivoli Palacio de Seteais.
The world’s rich and famous have been visiting Cascais for ages. The architecture is superb, and the coastline is splendid. In Cascais, stay a night at the Palacio Estoril Hotel. It’s my favorite hotel in all of Portugal.
I don’t recommend going to both places on the same day. You won’t see anything. Take the train to Sintra from Rossio station, and you’ll be in Sintra in less than an hour. Trains to Cascais depart from Cais do Sodre and take 40 minutes.
What’s Special about Lisbon
I love Lisbon because it’s a grand city that feels like a town. No other city in Europe has such fantastic architecture and easygoing and low-key neighborhoods. You have the best of both worlds.
The Portuguese capital is a world-class metropolis with a long and rich history. You can’t understand the world without visiting it. However, you won’t find any shiny or pretentious vibe here. Even in peak season, you will be able to enjoy the city.
That said, Lisbon is at the forefront of contemporary architecture and culture. Slowly but surely, the city has grown and attracted people from all over the country and the world. The city is liberal, modern, and so much fun!
Porto
Porto is the second biggest city in Portugal. However, it feels like a small town. Don’t get me wrong: the city is a vibrant metropolis. Porto is known around the world for its incredible wine. Architects will fall in love with its architecture.
The city is where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Since the terrain is hilly, you will enjoy jaw-dropping views everywhere. You’ve got historic architecture to discover and lush green nature to enjoy, including splendid beaches.
I’ve been to Porto in all seasons, including winter, and always had a blast. It’s never cold, especially if you compare it to other European cities. The city is famous for its one-of-a-kind bridges.
Main Sights
The nicest bridge in Porto is Dom Luis I. It’s a two-deck metal structure over the Douro River. Completed in 1886, it links the Old Town with Vila Nova da Gaia. You can walk along the river or take the tram.
Visit Porto’s Cathedral, built from 1110 to 1737. However, the oldest church in the city is the Church of Sao Martinho de Cedofeita, from 1087. Clerigos Church is the biggest. The views from the 246 ft (75 m) tall bell tower are priceless.
The Chapel of Souls has a façade entirely made of tiles. My favorite building in Porto is the Stock Exchange. Armazens Cunhas is the best art deco building in Portugal. Check out the Garagem Passos Manuel.
Museums
Portugal’s oldest museum is in Porto. The Museo Nacional Soares Dos Reis is in a lavish 18th Century palace in the center. The museum bears the name of Portugal’s most important artist. It’s got the biggest collection of Portuguese art in the country.
The best museum of contemporary art in the country is in Porto. The Museu de Arte Contemporanea de Serralves is inside a pink art deco mansions with manicured gardens. Take bus 201, and you’ll be there in half an hour.
To learn about the city’s history head to Casa do Infante. It’s inside a 14th-Century mansion where Prince Henry the Navigator was born. WOW Porto is next to the river, in the center. It’s a group of warehouses with a museum dedicated to wine.
Hotels
The best hotel in Porto is the Pestana Porto A Brasileira. The Portuguese chain refurbished the old A Brasileira coffee shop that opened in 1903. The luxurious hotel is in the heart of the city and has everything you dreamed of.
My favorite hotel in the city is the Moov Porto Centro. It used to be a movie theatre from 1899. The art nouveau façade is from 1928. Considering its class and location, the Moov is great value for money.
If you are looking for serviced apartments and studios, I recommend Condes De Azevedo Palace Apartments. It’s a 13th-Century building with an unbeatable location and fantastic service. The plush rooms come fully equipped and offer modern-day conveniences.
Restaurants and Bars
You have to try the local wine. The best place to do so is Calem Porto in the center, next to the river. The local winery has been producing premier wine since 1850! You can tour the cellars and enjoy live traditional Fado.
The Art Nouveau Café Majestic opened in the center in 1921. The food and coffee are top-notch. For a beer with locals, head to Armazen Da Cerveja nearby. To eat local food with memorable views go to Cesario in the 16th Century Gran Cruz House.
The best rooftop terrace in the city is Lift Via Catarina on the 14th floor of the mall. A DJ plays on weekends. For cocktails with breathtaking views of the bridge, go to Duoro Sky Lounge on top of the Vincci Porto Hotel.
Moving Around
The best way of moving around Porto is by walking, even in winter. The city is a maze of medieval lanes and cute plazas. You can walk everywhere in no time. Grab an umbrella in winter and wear a hat in the summer.
Biking is another fantastic option. Most international bike and scooter sharing apps work perfectly in the city. There are also local bike rental shops everywhere. However, biking up the hills can be a bit challenging. If you are tired, take a tram.
Porto has a public transport system with buses, metro, trams, and funiculars. There are 6 metro lines. Buses cross the entire city all day long and less frequently at night. Take the funicular dos Guindais from the center to the top of the city.
Day Trips
The best day trip from Porto is to Guimaraes. The city is 35 miles (55 km) north of Porto. A train there takes a bit over an hour. The trip to Guimaraes is an attraction in itself, so grab a window seat.
Guimaraes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has some of the oldest and best-preserved medieval buildings in Europe. If you have time, spend a night at the Hotel Toural. The luxurious palace is in the center.
A day trip to Douro valley is a great idea. A train to Villa Real takes an hour and a half. You will see endless vineyards, ancient terraces, and beautiful architecture. Stay a night at the Casa Agricola Da Levada Eco Village and explore one of the country’s nicest areas.
What’s Special about Porto
Though locals claim that Porto rivals Lisbon, I beg to differ. Granted, Porto has amazing historic architecture, but it feels and is much more relaxed. That to me is the biggest difference. You won’t find massive plazas and palaces.
The city is elegant and subdued at the same time. It has a completely different rhythm. Besides, the views from the hills and bridges are truly magnificent. Everything is in a small area that is easy to discover on foot. You can easily spend 3 Days in Porto and see the main sites.
I guess that Porto wine has created a special wine culture in the city. Locals take their time to sit down, enjoy a glass or bottle of wine, and tell you their stories. Finally, the city is full of young artists.
If You Still Haven’t Decided
I believe Lisbon is prettier and more interesting than Porto. Some people disagree and rave about Porto. We all agree that there is no clear winner! There is simply no way you won’t like both cities.
Choose Lisbon if you have 5 days. Spend three in the city, one in Cascais and one in Sintra. These three places are nicer and more impressive than just Porto. Go to Porto and Lisbon only if you have more than 6 days.
Go to Lisbon in winter if you don’t like crowds. The city can be a bit crowded in peak season. Therefore, go to Porto in the high season. If you are a beach bunny, go to Porto. There are lovely beaches near the center.
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