A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Windsor for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Lisbon or Windsor?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Windsor? 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisbon travel costs.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Windsor is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Windsor travel costs.

Lisbon and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Windsor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Windsor are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its small town charm. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Lisbon different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Windsor?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Lisbon just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a popular place for the beach. However, Windsor is not a beach destination.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Windsor is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Windsor?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Windsor More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of first-rate scenery and beauty in both Lisbon and Windsor.

Lisbon is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

The famous beauty of Windsor is one of the main draws. The highlight is Windsor Castle, but there are many beautiful parks and gardens around town as well.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Families?

Lisbon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Couples?

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

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.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lisbon or Windsor Better for Students?

Lisbon is well known for students. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Lisbon or Windsor a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Windsor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Windsor.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Windsor 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 Lisbon or Windsor?

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.

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Windsor?

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.

Windsor 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.

Five days in Lisbon or Windsor?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. 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.

A week in Lisbon or Windsor?

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.

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Windsor?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Windsor, 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 Lisbon or Windsor?

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 Lisbon or Windsor in the Summer?

Both Windsor and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 195 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Windsor. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Windsor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Windsor. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

Lisbon is much warmer than Windsor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Windsor fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Windsor. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Windsor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Windsor. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Windsor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Windsor averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 52 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Windsor. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Windsor in the Spring?

Both Windsor and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Windsor. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Windsor and Lisbon