A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Portland for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Portland?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Portland? 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. 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.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland travel costs.

Portland, Maine and Portland: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Portland than Portland, Maine. Portland is bigger than Portland, Maine, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Portland is better known for its museums and attractions, music, hiking, and small town charm, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Also, Portland is famous for Washington Park. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland 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 Portland?

Portland is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Portland, Maine is not a live music destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or Portland?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and Portland, Maine.

Many visitors go to Portland, Maine to go shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland More Beautiful?

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

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Portland, Maine or Portland.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland, Maine. 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.

Portland offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Portland, Maine and Portland make for a notable place to visit.

Portland, Maine is a good coastal town for couples to visit. 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Portland, Maine or Portland Better for Students?

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

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Portland, Maine is not popular with students.

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

Portland 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 Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

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

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Portland, Maine or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Portland, Maine and Portland. In our opinion, Portland has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Portland 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 Portland. 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 Portland than Portland, Maine. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Portland that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Portland, Maine or Portland?

The beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The scenic destination of Portland offers live music and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in 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 Portland?

Portland, Maine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, Maine, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Portland offers shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Portland?

Portland, Maine is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Portland, Maine or Portland?

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 comparing the travel costs between Portland, Maine and Portland, we can see that Portland, Maine is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Portland, Maine is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Portland, Maine in July average around 69°F (20°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In the summer, Portland, Maine often gets less sunshine than Portland. Portland, Maine gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Portland and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Portland, Maine is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 49°F (9°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Portland, Maine usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Portland, Maine gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Portland. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Portland and Portland, Maine during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Portland, Maine can be very cold. Portland, Maine is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Portland, Maine often gets more sunshine than Portland. Portland, Maine gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Portland, Maine usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Portland. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Portland, Maine is much colder than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Portland, Maine in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Portland, Maine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Portland, Maine usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Portland, Maine gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Portland. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Portland, Maine