A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Porto vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Porto or Ventimiglia?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Ventimiglia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Porto attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Porto travel costs.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a elegant, scenic, and traditional seaside town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come to Ventimiglia because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Ventimiglia travel costs.

Porto and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Porto than Ventimiglia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Porto is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is more popular for its beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Porto is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Also, Porto is famous for Cais da Ribeira. Ventimiglia is well known for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Porto different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Porto offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Porto or Ventimiglia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto
Ventimiglia

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

For foodies, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Porto know how to have a good time. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is very good for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Porto is not a beach destination.


Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto and Ventimiglia are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Many visitors go to Ventimiglia to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia More Beautiful?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Ventimiglia because of it's amazing beauty. With its uniquely Italian buildings and quaint streets, this is a truly beautiful town.

The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.


Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Porto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Both Porto and Ventimiglia are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Ventimiglia is a very popular place to visit for couples. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Porto is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto is a great destination for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Porto is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Porto offers a very effecient public transportation network. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Porto or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Porto
Ventimiglia

Porto and Ventimiglia are great when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable port city. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Porto?

How long in Porto or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Porto or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Porto than Ventimiglia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ventimiglia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Ventimiglia 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 Porto.


  • How many days in Porto or Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Porto 2-5 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Porto is a dynamic port city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. 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.

Even though Ventimiglia is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Porto is a historic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port city 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Porto is a dynamic port city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia is a fun place to experience. Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Porto or Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia or Porto?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Porto is €160, while the average daily cost in Ventimiglia is €149. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Porto and Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Porto 72
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Porto 144
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Porto and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Porto or Ventimiglia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Porto


Hotels in Ventimiglia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Porto Hotel Prices and Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Porto 21
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Porto

Also for Porto, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Funchal to Porto Moniz: Volcanic Pools Day Transfer: $70
  • Madeira: Porto da Cruz to Machico Hiking Tour with Transfer: $39
  • Madeira: Vereda do Larano Trail One-Way Transfer Service: $23
  • Porto Airport Transfer: $24
  • Porto Airport: Transfer to/from Valenca Do Minho Station: $12
  • Private Transfer to Lisbon from Tarouca: $293
  • Private Transfer to Porto from Tarouca: $135
  • Private transfer between Porto and Algarve with 1 stop: $558
  • Service Transfer Airport to Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia: $64
  • Transfer Oporto - Aeroport / Up to 4 passengers: $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Porto or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia and Porto change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Porto 63
    Ventimiglia 66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Porto

For Porto, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Porto Food & Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch or Dinner Option: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Porto 25
    Ventimiglia 27

Tours and Activities in Porto

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Porto.

  • Porto Six Bridges Panoramic Cruise on the Douro River: $21
  • Experience Porto's Charm: 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Porto Sunset River Cruise: Douro Magic at Dusk: $35
  • Douro River Boat Cruise with Port Wine and Snacks: $48
  • Porto Douro River Sightseeing Sailing Cruise at Sunset or Daytime: $48
  • 3-Hour Porto Highlights on a Electric Bike Guided Tour: $52
  • Tour on the Douro River in a Classic Boat: $54
  • Sunset or Daytime, Charming Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River: $54
  • 6 Bridges cruise , Douro river with sunset option: $54
  • Aveiro and Costa Nova Half Day Tour from Porto with Boat Ride: $55
  • Luxury Yacht Tour on the Douro River - Sunset or Daytime: $58
  • Fun Private Tuk Tuk Tour: $66

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $38
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $213

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Porto 19
    Ventimiglia 7.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Porto

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Porto:

  • Luxury Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting & Snacks: $54
  • Port Wine Tour | 3 Cellars | 7 Tastings | 12 Participants Maximum: $60
  • Port Wine Lodges Tour Including 7 Port Wine Tastings (English): $62
  • Authentic Food and Wine Tour in Porto by Food Lover Tour: $81
  • Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, Cruise and Lunch from Porto : $96
  • Douro Valley Wine Tour: 3 Vineyard Visits, Wine Tastings, Lunch: $113
  • Complete Douro Valley Wine Tour with Lunch, Wine Tastings and River Cruise: $118
  • Douro Valley Half-Day Wine Tour with Winery and Lunch From Porto: $131
  • Authentic Small Group Douro Wine Tour with Lunch & River Cruise: $131
  • Small Group Douro Valley Wine Tour with Lunch and Cruise: $149
  • Douro Valley Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch and Boat: $150
  • Douro Valley Tour - 3 Wine tastings, Lunch & river Cruise: $152


When comparing the travel costs between Porto and Ventimiglia, we can see that Porto 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 Europe, 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 Porto Expensive? and Is Ventimiglia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Porto or Ventimiglia?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Ventimiglia, 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 Porto or Ventimiglia?

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 Porto or Ventimiglia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Porto as well as Ventimiglia. Most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Porto is generally cooler than Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 21°C (69°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ventimiglia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Ventimiglia. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Porto 21°C (69°F) 
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Porto or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

Both Ventimiglia and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

Porto is around the same temperature as Ventimiglia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ventimiglia. It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Porto 17°C (62°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Porto or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

Both Ventimiglia and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Porto is a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Porto in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Ventimiglia. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Porto 10°C (50°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Porto or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Ventimiglia. Many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 14°C (56°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Porto 14°C (56°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Porto

Porto Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 169 mm (6.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 20°C (69°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 20°C (67°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 11°C (51°F) 176 mm (6.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)