A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Portland for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Portland 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and hiking. See Portland travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Both Portland and Carmel-by-the-Sea have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Carmel-by-the-Sea is better known for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its nightlife, music, and hiking. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Carmel-by-the-Sea attract visitors from all over. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Families?

Portland is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Portland is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a city with good options for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Portland is a good city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Portland is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Portland both are great when exploring on foot.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable destination. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

For even more information, also check out Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Portland. In our opinion, Portland has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Portland than Carmel-by-the-Sea. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Portland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Portland than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Portland.

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With live music and shopping around the progressive city of Portland, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the tree-lined destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Portland, 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the summer, Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Portland. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Portland. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 62°F (17°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Portland. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Portland. Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Portland. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Carmel-by-the-Sea