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

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and Porto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a colorful, historic, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Porto

Porto is a cultural, cosmopolitan, and dynamic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Porto is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Porto travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Porto, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kuala Lumpur is more popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Porto is known for its historical sights. Kuala Lumpur is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also home to The Petronas Twin Towers. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

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 Kuala Lumpur or Porto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Kuala Lumpur and Porto both to be first-rate destinations.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

For foodies, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Porto Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Porto.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Porto is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Porto. 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.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

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

Is Kuala Lumpur or Porto More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur and Porto both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Kuala Lumpur is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Porto Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Porto are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Porto is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Porto Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur and Porto both high quality destinations for a couple.

Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

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.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Porto Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

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

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

Kuala Lumpur is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Kuala Lumpur has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Porto has some very good public transit options. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Porto a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Porto are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Porto is a very walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

In either Kuala Lumpur or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Kuala Lumpur has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Porto. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Porto, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic port city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

Kuala Lumpur is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur 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.

In Porto, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historic big city offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming big city of Kuala Lumpur. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Porto is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, 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 Kuala Lumpur and Porto, we can see that Porto is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur.

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

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur or Porto?

Porto has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Porto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Porto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Porto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Porto in the summer. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In Kuala Lumpur, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Porto during summer. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Porto. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Porto. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Porto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Porto averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Porto. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in October than Porto. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Porto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Kuala Lumpur usually receives more sunshine than Porto during winter. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In January, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Porto. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Kuala Lumpur during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Porto in the spring. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 28°C (82°F) in April, and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Porto. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in April than Porto. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Porto and Kuala Lumpur