A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Lisbon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Da Nang or Lisbon?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Lisbon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a coastal, accessible, and authentic city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and museums. See Da Nang travel costs.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty in Lisbon as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisbon travel costs.

Da Nang and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Lisbon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is known for its resorts. Lisbon is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Da Nang is popular for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Lisbon?

Lisbon is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Lisbon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Da Nang has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Da Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its live music scene. However, Da Nang is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Da Nang is not a live music destination.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Da Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Lisbon is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Da Nang and Lisbon are good choices.

Da Nang is a good option for a beach vacation. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is terrific for its old town. However, Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Lisbon?

Lisbon is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon More Beautiful?

Lisbon is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lisbon as well. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Da Nang or Lisbon.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Da Nang and Lisbon make for a high quality place to visit.

Da Nang is a very popular place to visit for couples. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Students?

Lisbon is a well-known place for students. However, Da Nang is not popular with students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Da Nang is not popular with students.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is terrific for its public transit. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Da Nang has some public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Da Nang or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Lisbon?

Both Da Nang and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Da Nang. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lisbon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Da Nang 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 Lisbon.

One day in Da Nang or Lisbon?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 Da Nang or Lisbon?

Da Nang is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Da Nang or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lisbon 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 Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Lisbon?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Da Nang. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Lisbon?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Lisbon, 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 Da Nang or Lisbon?

Lisbon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Da Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Da Nang or Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Da Nang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

In the summer, Da Nang is a little warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Da Nang in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Lisbon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Da Nang. In the summer, Da Nang often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun.

Da Nang usually gets more rain in July than Lisbon. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year. January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Lisbon. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Da Nang is generally a little warmer than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 25°C (78°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. Da Nang usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during autumn. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Lisbon. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Lisbon. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Da Nang is much warmer than Lisbon in the winter. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Lisbon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Da Nang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the winter. Da Nang usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Lisbon. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Da Nang is much warmer than Lisbon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Da Nang in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Lisbon averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during spring. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Da Nang