A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Newport for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Newport?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Newport? 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.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a scenic, picturesque, and seaside coastal town. With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Newport travel costs.

Portland, Maine and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Portland, Maine and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Newport is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland, Maine or Newport?

Newport is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Newport is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Newport is an experience not to be missed. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Portland, Maine or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Portland, Maine and Newport.

Portland, Maine has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Newport has a few options to choose from. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Portland, Maine or Newport Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Portland, Maine and Newport are great choices.

Portland, Maine is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Portland, Maine or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Newport 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 Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Is Portland, Maine or Newport Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or Newport?

Newport is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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.

Is Portland, Maine or Newport More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Portland, Maine attracts visitors from all around. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Is Portland, Maine or Newport Better for Families?

Newport is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Newport is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Portland, Maine or Newport Better for Couples?

Newport is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. 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 Portland, Maine or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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 Portland, Maine or Newport a more walkable city?

Newport is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable coastal town. 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 Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Newport?

In either Portland, Maine or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Portland, Maine because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, Maine, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport 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 Newport.

One day in Portland, Maine or Newport?

In Portland, Maine, you'll find shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The seaside destination of Newport offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or Newport?

In Portland, Maine, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland, Maine has to offer.

The town of Newport offers food and shopping. 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.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Newport?

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Portland, Maine or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Newport?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Newport, 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 Portland, Maine or Newport?

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 Portland, Maine or Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Newport. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portland, Maine is cooler than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In the summer, Portland, Maine often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Portland, Maine gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets less rain in July than Newport. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Portland, Maine is cooler than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland, Maine in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. Portland, Maine usually receives less sunshine than Newport during autumn. Portland, Maine gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Portland, Maine usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Portland, Maine during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can be very cold during winter. Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than Newport. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 21°F (-6°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Portland, Maine often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Portland, Maine gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Newport. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Newport. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Portland, Maine is cooler than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland, Maine usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during spring. Portland, Maine gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Portland, Maine usually receives less rain than Newport. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Newport and Portland, Maine