A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Portland, Maine 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a fun-filled, festive, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, nightlife, and live music. See New Orleans travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a scenic, picturesque, and seaside coastal town. Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

New Orleans and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

You'll generally find more things to do in New Orleans than Portland, Maine. New Orleans is bigger than Portland, Maine, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New Orleans is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

New Orleans has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Music?

New Orleans is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

In New Orleans you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Portland, Maine attract visitors from all over. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with good options for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with good options for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Portland, Maine is a family-friendly coastal town. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Both New Orleans and Portland, Maine are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

New Orleans is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Portland, Maine makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Students?

New Orleans is a popular place for students. However, Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New Orleans is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is New Orleans or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

New Orleans is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable city. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New Orleans and Portland, Maine. In our opinion, New Orleans has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in New Orleans than Portland, Maine. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in New Orleans than Portland, Maine. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in New Orleans that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New Orleans than Portland, Maine 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 New Orleans.

One day in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

The energetic destination of New Orleans offers live music and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

The city of New Orleans offers food and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Portland, Maine. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

New Orleans is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The seaside coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Portland, Maine. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Portland, Maine, 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 New Orleans or Portland, Maine?

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 New Orleans or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine and New Orleans during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in New Orleans. In the summer, New Orleans often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. New Orleans gets 264 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

New Orleans is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. New Orleans gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, New Orleans usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit New Orleans or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland, Maine can be very cold. In the winter, New Orleans is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, New Orleans often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. New Orleans gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the winter. New Orleans usually gets more rain in January than Portland, Maine. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

Both Portland, Maine and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

In April, New Orleans is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. New Orleans gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In April, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and New Orleans