A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Porto for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beijing or Porto?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Porto can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a cultural, fascinating, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Beijing travel costs.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Porto attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Porto travel costs.

Beijing and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Porto?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Porto. Beijing is bigger than Porto, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Porto is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Porto and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Porto is well known for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

How is Beijing different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Beijing from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Beijing or Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Beijing and Porto can be an enjoyable experience.

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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.

Is Beijing or Porto Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Porto has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife in Porto has something for everybody. 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 Beijing or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Porto is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Porto?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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

Is Beijing or Porto More Beautiful?

Porto is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Porto attracts visitors from all around. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Porto Better for Families?

Porto is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Porto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Porto Better for Couples?

Porto is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Porto is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Beijing or Porto Better for Students?

Beijing and Porto are superb places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Porto.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Porto. 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 Beijing or Porto a more walkable city?

Porto is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Porto?

In either Beijing or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Porto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

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

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

Each neighborhood in Beijing has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

In Porto, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Porto, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Porto?

Beijing is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Beijing has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Beijing has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, 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 Beijing and Porto, we can see that Porto is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Porto is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Porto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Porto than you might in Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Porto?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beijing in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Beijing is a little warmer than Porto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Porto averages at about 21°C (69°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets less sunshine than Porto. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Porto. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Beijing is generally cooler than Porto. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Porto during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Porto. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Porto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Porto. The winter months attract visitors to Beijing because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

The weather in Beijing can be very cold. Beijing is much colder than Porto in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Porto. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Beijing is around the same temperature as Porto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Porto averages at about 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Porto during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Porto. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Beijing