A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Portland vs. Toronto for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Portland or Toronto?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Portland and Toronto 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.

Portland

Portland is a scenic, laid-back, and progressive city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, hiking, and shopping. See Portland travel costs.

Toronto

Toronto is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Toronto travel costs.

Portland and Toronto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland or Toronto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toronto than Portland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toronto is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland 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. Toronto is popular for its art and culture, diverse cuisine, and multi-cultural population. It is also home to the CN Tower.

How is Portland different from Toronto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland or Toronto?

Toronto is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Toronto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with landmarks and museums such as the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium is a highlight for many visitors. It's near the CN Tower and has an underwater tunnel. The city is also filled with art galleries and cultural sights. Another must is a visit to Casa Loma and, of course, the Toronto Zoo.

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.

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

Toronto is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.

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 or Toronto Better for Nightlife?

Toronto is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Toronto is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 or Toronto Better for Music?

Portland is a city with good options for live music. However, Toronto is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Toronto is not a live music destination.

Is Portland or Toronto Better for Hiking?

Portland is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Toronto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland or Toronto?

Toronto is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Toronto. Shopping is huge here, with plenty of options available that range from large malls to vintage stores or flea markets. Eaton Center on Yonge Street is a major shopping area. Yonge Street is also home to more than 600 retail stores.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. 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 or Toronto More Beautiful?

Portland is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Toronto is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Portland or Toronto Better for Families?

Toronto is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Toronto is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy the city's many family-friendly museums like the Royal Ontario Museum or the Ontario Science Center. Younger kids will have fun playing at the Centreville Theme Park while all ages will love a day at Canada's Wonderland. Black Creek Pioneer Village is a highlight for many families as well.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. 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 or Toronto Better for Couples?

Toronto is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Toronto makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city is full of energy, and couples can enjoy amazing meals, impressive shows, and romantic outings. You can picnic at a park or check out the view from CN Tower. There are also dinner cruises and live theater.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 or Toronto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland and Toronto are both great destinations for backpackers.

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

Toronto is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town and there's often a good crowd of backpackers.

Is Portland or Toronto Better for Students?

Toronto is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Toronto is a very popular city for students. The city has a good number of universities that attract students from around the globe. This is a very livable city with a lot of diversity and plenty of entertainment options.

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.

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

Toronto is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Toronto has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Union Station is the hub of the city's transportation system, which includes subways, buses and streetcars.

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.

Is Portland or Toronto a more walkable city?

Portland and Toronto are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Toronto is a very walkable city. It's a pedestrian-friendly city that is great for exploring on foot. The waterfront area has a walkway and there are cycling trails around town as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland Worth Visiting? and Is Toronto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toronto or Portland?

How long in Portland or Toronto?

Both Portland and Toronto have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Toronto than in Portland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, and 3-7 days is enough time in Toronto.

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

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

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

One day in Portland or Toronto?

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Toronto is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Portland or Toronto?

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Toronto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Portland or Toronto?

Portland is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

Toronto is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toronto, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Portland or Toronto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Toronto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toronto has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Portland or Toronto?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Portland or Toronto in the Summer?

Both Toronto and Portland are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toronto this time of year.

Portland is around the same temperature as Toronto in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Toronto fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Toronto. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. Portland usually receives more sunshine than Toronto during summer. Portland gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 281 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Portland usually receives less rain than Toronto. Portland gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Portland or Toronto in the Autumn?

Both Toronto and Portland during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toronto for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Portland is a little warmer than Toronto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Toronto averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Portland often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto. Portland gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 153 hours of full sun.

Portland usually gets more rain in October than Toronto. Portland gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland or Toronto in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland and Toronto. Many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Toronto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Toronto can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. In January, Portland is generally much warmer than Toronto. Daily temperatures in Portland average around 40°F (4°C), and Toronto fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

Portland usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toronto during winter. Portland gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Toronto receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Portland usually receives more rain than Toronto. Portland gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Portland or Toronto in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Portland as well as Toronto. Many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Toronto for the activities around the city during these months.

Portland is much warmer than Toronto in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Toronto fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In the spring, Portland often gets more sunshine than Toronto. Portland gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toronto receives 179 hours of full sun.

Portland usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Toronto. Portland gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Toronto receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toronto and Portland