Porto or Lisbon? Which city to see first

Portugal’s two biggest cities might share a language and a love of custard tarts, but the similarities pretty much stop there. Lisbon, the sun-drenched capital, is a city of grand ambitions – set across seven hills, with yellow trams clattering through the streets and rooftop bars stacked with ocean views.

Porto, up north on the Douro River, has a different energy. Gritty, soulful, and a bit rough around the edges, it trades glossy postcard perfection for authenticity – and wine. Lots of wine.

So, Porto or Lisbon – where should you start your Portuguese adventure? Here's our take on what each city brings to the table.

Porto or Lisbon? Which one suits you best?

Lisbon is best if you... want sunlit viewpoints, old-world charm, and a city that never sits still. You’ll find pastel buildings, rattling trams, and a nightlife scene that starts late and ends even later. It’s ideal if you like your city breaks with a side of Atlantic breeze, tiled facades, and custard tarts that ruin all others.

Porto is best if you... love moody river views, cobbled lanes, and sipping port wine where it was born. It’s smaller, cheaper, and rawer than the capital, with a creative streak running through its street art, indie cafés, and underground bars. Perfect if you’re after something more low-key and proudly Portuguese.

Planning a longer stay? Check out our ultimate Portugal itinerary.

How many days do you need in Lisbon and Porto?

Ideally, give yourself 3-4 days in each city to really get under their skin.

In Lisbon, three days let you ride the rickety Tram 28 through Alfama, soak in the views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, get lost in the tiled maze of Bairro Alto, and explore Belém’s historic monuments – yes, with a warm pastéis de nata in hand. A fourth day gives you breathing room for a day trip – Sintra’s palaces are a short train ride away and feel like another world.

Make sure to read our guide about how many days you need in Lisbon.

In Porto, three days cover the essentials: tasting port in Vila Nova de Gaia, walking the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset, cruising the Douro, and digging into hearty northern cuisine in the Ribeira district. With four days, you can slow down, wander the lesser-known Foz district by the sea, check out the art scene in Bombarda, or even hop on a Douro Valley wine tour.

Make sure to read our guide about how many days you need in Porto.

While Lisbon pulls you in with its sweeping views, buzzing nightlife, and layered history, Porto charms you with its compact, soulful streets and deep-rooted traditions. If you have a week, see them both – you won’t regret it.

The weather in Lisbon and Porto

One of the biggest differences between Lisbon and Porto is the weather – Portugal may be a small country, but the climate can vary quite a bit between north and south.

Lisbon has a classic Mediterranean climate. Summers (June-August) are hot and dry, with daytime temperatures regularly hitting 86-95°F (30-35°C). Thanks to the Atlantic breeze, it’s usually bearable – but shade and sunscreen are your friends. Winters (December–February) are mild, with daytime averages around 50-59°F (10-15°C) and rare cold snaps. Rain is more common in winter, but it’s usually short-lived.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the sweet spots – sunny skies, warm days, and fewer crowds. These shoulder seasons are ideal for walking Lisbon’s hilly neighborhoods without melting in the process.

Porto, further north and closer to the Atlantic, is cooler and wetter. Summers are warm but not extreme, averaging 75-82°F (24-28°C) in July and August. Expect more cloud cover and a higher chance of rain, even in summer. Winters are damp and chilly, with temperatures hovering around 41-52°F (5-11°C) and frequent rainfall – pack a raincoat if you’re heading there between November and February.

Spring and early fall bring mild, pleasant weather and fewer tourists – perfect for sipping vinho verde by the river or exploring Porto’s steep alleyways.

Read our full guide to the best time to visit Portugal.

Where's the best food scene?

When it comes to eating out, Lisbon and Porto serve up very different flavors – but both know how to satisfy a hungry traveler.

Lisbon’s food scene is bold, diverse, and increasingly international. You’ll find traditional dishes like bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with potato and egg), grilled sardines, and bifanas (marinated pork sandwiches), alongside hip fusion joints, modern Portuguese restaurants, and some seriously good pastelarias (pastry shops). The Time Out Market has become a bit touristy, but it’s still a one-stop shop for everything from octopus salad to artisan cheeses.

Eating out in Lisbon is all about variety: one night you’re tucking into petiscos (Portugal’s answer to tapas) in a tiny tasca in Alfama, the next you’re chasing natural wines and modern twists on seafood in Príncipe Real. There's a buzz and energy to Lisbon's dining scene that reflects the city’s ever-changing spirit.

Porto, by contrast, keeps things grounded – and deliciously so. This is the land of francesinha, a monster of a sandwich layered with steak, ham, sausage, and cheese, drowned in a spicy beer sauce. You’ll find hearty northern Portuguese dishes like tripas à moda do Porto (tripe stew) and slow-cooked meat casseroles served in cozy taverns that haven't changed in decades.

But don’t be fooled by its old-school image – Porto’s food scene is evolving. Cool wine bars, inventive chefs, and coffee shops run by passionate locals are cropping up all over the city, especially in the Cedofeita and Bonfim districts. And, of course, sipping a glass of port by the Douro isn’t optional – it’s a rite of passage.

In short, Lisbon dazzles with its variety and modern edge, while Porto keeps it real with comfort food and deep-rooted flavors. Whichever city you choose, your stomach will thank you.

Best things to do in Lisbon and Porto

Both cities are packed with personality – whether you're chasing history, food, art, or just a strong coffee with a view. If you’re into sweeping views, tiled façades, and buzzing nightlife, Lisbon has you covered. If you prefer medieval streets, soul-stirring river views, and the world’s best port wine, Porto might just win your heart.

Be sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Portugal.

Things to do in Lisbon

Lisbon is built on seven hills, and yes, your legs will notice – but the views are always worth it. Kick things off in Belém, where Portugal’s Age of Discovery comes to life. Climb the Belém Tower, wander the vast Jerónimos Monastery, and refuel at the original Pastéis de Belém bakery.

Hop on Tram 28 for a scenic, bone-rattling ride through Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Here, time slows down among steep alleys, Fado music, and tiny bars serving ginginha (cherry liqueur) in plastic cups.

The Baixa and Chiado districts offer grand squares and café culture, while Bairro Alto wakes up after dark, packed with bars, music venues, and street parties that don’t know the meaning of "last call."

For art lovers, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum houses a world-class collection, and MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) impresses both inside and out. Don’t skip the Miradouros (viewpoints) – especially São Pedro de Alcântara and Senhora do Monte for sweeping shots of the city and river.

Things to do in Porto

Porto is a city of mood and atmosphere – foggy mornings, warm granite buildings, and steep streets that seem designed for postcards.

Start at Ribeira, the city’s waterfront district, where crumbling facades and colorful balconies overlook the Douro River. Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge (walk the upper level for the best views) and head to Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the city’s famous port wine lodges – yes, the tastings are mandatory.

For architecture buffs, the Livraria Lello bookstore is a dreamy, neo-Gothic wonder (and a supposed inspiration for Harry Potter). Nearby, Clérigos Tower offers one of the best panoramic views in the city – after a steep climb, of course.

Porto also boasts some under-the-radar gems: Foz do Douro, where the river meets the sea, is great for long walks and seafood feasts. And the Serralves Museum blends cutting-edge art with peaceful parkland.

Love churches? You’re in luck. Don’t miss the Church of São Francisco with its baroque gold-leaf overload, or the Chapel of Souls, famous for its blue-and-white azulejo tiles.

Lisbon or Porto: tourism and crowds

While both Lisbon and Porto are major draws for visitors, the way they handle tourism is noticeably different.

Lisbon sees far more international tourists, especially during peak season (June-August). The city’s compact center – Alfama, Baixa, and Belém – can feel overwhelmed, especially around the big-ticket sights like Jerónimos Monastery and Tram 28. Cruise ships dock regularly, and the narrow, hilly streets aren’t built for crowds. Add in rising prices and gentrification, and you’ll find a bit of local pushback in some areas.

Porto, while definitely popular, feels calmer and more laid-back. Tourism is growing fast here too, but the smaller size of the city means you’re never far from a quieter street or scenic corner. Yes, Ribeira and Gaia get busy, especially on sunny weekends, but head just a few blocks inland and you’ll get a much more local feel, without needing to plan every step in advance.

For both cities, spring and fall are your best bets to avoid the thickest crowds. You’ll get better weather, lower prices, and space to breathe.

If you’re looking for a destination where you can dodge the crowds more easily, Porto wins on manageability. If you’re up for the bustle of a capital city that’s full of energy and iconic sights, Lisbon is still worth it – just book ahead and get up early.

Read more on how to plan your trip to Portugal.

Best day trips from Lisbon and Porto

Lisbon’s location near the coast and hills gives you plenty of easy escapes. Top of the list is Sintra, just 40 minutes by train. It’s pure storybook stuff – think colorful palaces, lush gardens, and misty mountain air. Don’t miss Palácio da Pena or the cliffside Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

If you want seaside charm, head to Cascais, a chic coastal town just 30 minutes west of Lisbon. Here, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Portugal, fresh seafood, and a breezy boardwalk perfect for lazy afternoons. Or go a bit further to Évora, around 1.5 hours by train or car, for Roman ruins, whitewashed houses, and one very eerie bone chapel.

Porto, tucked into the north, has fewer beaches but a different kind of magic on its doorstep. The Douro Valley is an easy win – an hour or so inland by car or train takes you to rolling vineyards and hilltop wineries where you can sip port with a view. It's one of Portugal’s most scenic regions and a must if you’re into wine (or just landscapes that look like they’ve been airbrushed).

For a history fix, visit Guimarães, often called the birthplace of Portugal. Its UNESCO-listed old town, medieval castle, and cobbled streets make it a rewarding trip, just an hour from Porto by train. Another good pick is Braga, known for its baroque churches and sweeping staircase up to the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

Which city offers more value for money?

Both Lisbon and Porto can be done on a budget or a blowout, but Porto generally offers better value, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining. Lisbon, as the capital, has higher prices, particularly in tourist-heavy areas and during peak season.

Average daily prices in Lisbon:

• $58 (€53) on meals
• $19 (€17) on local transportation
• $180 (€166) on hotels

Average daily prices in Porto:

• $50 (€46) on meals
• $18 (€16) on local transportation
• $142 (€131) on hotels

On average:

• Accommodation: Lisbon is pricier, especially in central neighborhoods like Alfama and Chiado. For help picking the right spot, see our guide to the best areas to stay in Lisbon. Porto offers better value overall, with affordable options in Cedofeita and Ribeira. Check out our picks for the best places to stay in Porto for budget and boutique stays alike. If you’re watching your spending, Porto wins. Lisbon gives you more variety – but at a cost.
• Food: Both cities are great for foodies, but Porto wins again on affordability. Traditional spots in Porto serve up hearty northern dishes at lower prices, and you’ll find plenty of locals eating out. Lisbon has more variety and upscale options, but meals in trendy areas can be significantly pricier, especially if you're dining in tourist zones or along the waterfront.
• Attractions: Lisbon’s major attractions (like the Jerónimos Monastery or MAAT) usually have entry fees, but many museums offer free days or discounts. Porto’s sights are often cheaper or free to visit, and just walking the city, with its river views, tiled churches, and lively markets, is half the experience. You’ll also find more wine tastings in Porto for less money, particularly across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia.
• Transportation: Both cities have efficient public transport, and prices are similar for metro, trams, and buses. However, Lisbon’s hills and spread-out neighborhoods can make walking tiring, so you may end up spending more on trams or taxis. In Porto, a more compact layout means fewer extra costs for getting around.

Overall, Porto offers more bang for your buck, especially for accommodation and food. Lisbon brings a wider range of experiences, but that often comes with a higher price tag. If you're watching your wallet, Porto is the smarter pick. If you’re okay with spending a bit more for capital-city buzz and variety, Lisbon is worth the splurge.

Buzzing capital or laid-back north

A key difference between Lisbon and Porto comes down to their geography, and how that shapes the pace of your trip.

Lisbon may be a capital city, but it’s also hugely influenced by the sea. Perched near the Atlantic, it offers easy access to beaches, breezy viewpoints, and a light, coastal feel that softens even the hottest summer days. While the city’s not exactly beachfront, you can be on the sand at Carcavelos or Costa da Caparica in under 30 minutes by train or car. It’s not uncommon to spend the morning exploring a monastery and the afternoon catching waves or sipping cold vinho verde at a beach café.

This proximity to the ocean gives Lisbon a laid-back vibe, especially in summer. Surfers, beachgoers, and seafood lovers will feel right at home. Just be ready for crowds at popular beaches on weekends – locals head for the coast too.

Porto, meanwhile, sits further inland, but still hugs the Douro River and is only 20-30 minutes from the Atlantic by tram or bus. Foz do Douro and Matosinhos are the go-to beach escapes for locals, known for dramatic sunsets, coastal walks, and solid seafood. While Porto doesn’t shout “beach city” the way Lisbon does, it offers a more relaxed, less touristy seaside experience.

What Porto lacks in sandy stretches, it makes up for with its compact, walkable center and deep cultural feel. You’ll spend more time exploring wine cellars, tiled churches, and hidden alleyways than chasing waves – but you’re never too far from the ocean if you want it.

So, if coastal living is a priority, Lisbon edges ahead. If you’re more into urban wandering with a side of sea, Porto keeps things grounded – and still gives you a chance to breathe in the Atlantic.

Do Lisbon and Porto have similarities?

For all their contrasts, Lisbon and Porto share plenty of common ground – both are among the best places to visit in Portugal, and each showcases what makes the country so compelling.

They’re cities that value good food, strong coffee, and taking time to enjoy life. Whether you're grabbing petiscos (small plates) at a tasca or lingering over grilled fish with vinho verde, eating well is non-negotiable. The café culture is real, and yes – locals stay out late, especially in summer, when families and friends fill the streets well into the night.

Art and music are woven into daily life, from street murals to soulful Fado performances. Football? It’s a national obsession – whether you're cheering for Benfica or FC Porto, the passion runs deep.

Both cities also offer that uniquely Portuguese mix of melancholy and charm – a little faded at the edges, but full of soul. And wherever you are, you’re never too far from a view that stops you in your tracks.

So, which one is better? Lisbon or Porto?

Honestly? It depends on what kind of trip you’re after. If you’re craving sun-drenched viewpoints, buzzing nightlife, and easy day trips to fairytale palaces, then Lisbon is your city. But if you’re after laid-back charm, riverside wine bars, and a slower, more soulful vibe, then Porto will win you over.

Both cities deliver on food, culture, and atmosphere – so whichever you choose, you won’t go wrong. And hey, Portugal’s small. Visit one now, save the other for next time.