WhereToGoForMyHoliday.com

The best destination comparison site!

WhereToGoForMyHoliday.com

The best destination comparison site!

Budapest or Porto, which is better for your holiday in 2024?

Porto and Budapest both offer unique and enticing experiences, but which one should you choose for your city break or holiday?

We recognise the difficulty in making this decision. While there is abundant information available on both destinations, clear guidance on which city better aligns with your travel preferences is often hard to find.
This article aims to provide an impartial comparison,and hopefully help you to choose the best city to visit.

The article is structured into several sections, each of which can be directly accessed through the following links:
• Introduction to the cities
• Scores and ratings
• Which one should I, friends, or family visit?
• When to visit and weather
• Who is the city suited for?
• The perfect 48hours (with map)
• Tourism details (where to stay? airport details?)

Introduction to Budapest and Porto

Straddling the snaking Danube in the very heart of Europe is Budapest, the buzzing capital of Hungary.
Here, a city of two halves – Buda and Pest – unites to form a complex tapestry of over 1.7 million lives. With grand 19th-century bridges stitching together the landscape, Budapest entices with its blend of storied history, striking architecture, café charm, and lively nightspots.

Whether your eyes are drawn to the regal palaces atop Buda Hill or the heady aroma of sulphur from steaming bathhouses, Budapest never ceases to captivate. Venture into ruin bars, gaze upon the monumental Dohány Street Synagogue, or stroll the wide boulevards left behind by the Communist era.
In Budapest, every glance reveals a new layer of intrigue, a city where the past and present are locked in an endless dance.

Buda Castle Budapest

Buda Castle and the western side of Budapest

Porto is the surprise of western Europe. This hardworking and unassuming city seems to have stumbled into tourism without even realising its own potential. The variety of historic sights, personable atmosphere, along with a glass of sweet Port wine, creates a wonderful tourist destination.

Porto may be comparatively small and virtually unknown, but it can rival any of the more established tourist destinations. The unique appeal of Porto is that it is not swamped by tourists in the summer season, and is ideal for a summertime city break.

Ribeira porto

The Ribeira is the oldest district in Porto

budapest

Budapest is a vibrant and modern city just waiting to be explored

High-level summary for Budapest and Porto

Summary
Where would I journey for a personal escape?
Budapest
Where would I send my parents for a memorable visit?
Porto
Where's the ideal destination for my adventurous 19-year-old cousin?
Budapest
Where should my food-obsessed friend indulge their culinary passions?
Porto
Note: The above comparisons are weather-independent and are based on travel during the most opportune times of the year. Details about the ideal travel seasons are elaborated upon later in this article.

In the sections that follow, you'll find a comprehensive comparison between these two fascinating cities. This includes recommendations on the duration of stay, the best times to visit, and tailored 48-hour itineraries for each city.
The final segment delves into practicalities for your travels, such as the best airport to fly into, the optimal districts for your accommodation, and insider tips, for when you come to explore the city.

We hope that you find all of this information useful, in planning your next exciting trip!

Destination details

How long to spend each city?

Fly-in visits for three days are enough to check off the major must-see sights of Budapest. This is a compact capital with good underground and bus links. You can get easily get across town – going from Buda Castle on one side of the city all the way to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths at the other takes less than an hour on public transport.

That said, Budapest has plenty of hidden secrets up its sleeve. You could easily while away a whole week enjoying cheap happy hours in the ruin bars, bathing in the Art Deco spas, and visiting islands up the Danube. If you're coming in summer, you could also extend a stay to include the art galleries and cobbled lanes of Szentendre, the mineral-rich waters of Lake Balaton, and the rustic Tokaj wine country to the east.

Porto is a compact city, and if rushed, all of the major tourist areas can be seen in a single day. Typically, we would recommend two days, which would include a short cruise along the Douro River and time for port tasting.

If you wished to extend your trip further, there are some great days out to the historic towns of Guimarães, Braga and Aveiro. During the summer (Jun-Sep) there are beautiful beaches along the Costa Verde coastline, and you could visit the resort towns of Espinho, Vila do Conde or Matosinhos.
Related articles: 2 days in Porto1 week in Porto

Danube River Budapest

The mighty Danube River cuts Budapest in two

Porto Ponte Luís I bridge

The Ponte Luís I bridge in Porto spans the Douro River

Porto is one of the best European cities for a summer city break. While the rest of southern Europe swelters under the unbearable summer heat, Porto experiences pleasant weather and is not completely overrun by tourists.

Winters are mild and wet, and there is a high chance of rain from October through to May. The middle of June is the best time to visit the city when the Santos Populares festivals are being held.

Late spring and early autumn are when locals often say Budapest is at its best. Temperatures average around 23-25 degrees in May and September. There's not an overload of rain then either. And it's perfect for avoiding the crowds of midsummer city breakers that come during the European holidays.

There's also something to be said for visiting Budapest in the midst of winter. Mercury plummets between November and March, and it's not uncommon to see the Danube freeze over with huge chunks of ice. What's more, the tenements and side streets of the Jewish Quarter and the historic Inner City areas ooze atmosphere on cold, snowy days. Just be sure to pack the thermals!

Budapest, with its rich historical culture, intertwined seamlessly with an energetic nightlife, has established it as a top destination for a diverse range of travellers. Backpackers gravitate towards the Jewish Quarter's unique ruin bars, where they can indulge in exceptionally affordable Hungarian beers amidst eclectic courtyards.
Meanwhile, those with a cultural focus may choose to delve into the history of the Hungarian empire at Buda Castle or pay homage at the poignant House of Terror museum, which delves into the oppressive Stasi era.

However, if your preference leans towards sun-soaked beaches, Budapest might not feel like a perfect fit. Situated in a landlocked region, both the city and the country are devoid of coastline. Furthermore, while there are parks, they are predominantly located on the city's periphery, making Budapest predominantly an urban experience.

The characteristics of Porto traditionally appealed to the older visitor; it is very safe and there is a pleasant unhurried ambience, with a slightly conservative attitude. This mature opinion of Porto is often compounded by the most popular activities; Douro River cruises and Port tasting (which is great fun!).

This demographic of visitors to Porto is rapidly evolving, as younger travellers realise it is actually a progressive city, with a lot to see and do. Porto will appeal to those looking for somewhere slightly different, but who want a hassle-free trip with decent tourist facilities. Being one of the safest cities in Europe makes it ideal for solo/female travellers.

Hungarian Parliament

The Hungarian Parliament stands as a stunning testament to Budapest's architectural grandeur, holding the title of the city's tallest building

Igreja do Carmo Porto

The beautiful Azulejo tile painting on the side of the Igreja do Carmo, Porto

Porto
Considering the size of Porto there is a lot to see, and you can pack in a lot in a 48 hour visit.
Below is an interactive map of where we recommend to go in 48 hours in Porto; day 1 is highlighted in green and day 2 in yellow, with optional sights marked in grey.

A tour of Porto typically starts in the Se district, with the gothic cathedral and ancient city walls. Next is the Baixa district, where you can find the Avenida dos Aliados, and enjoy the view from the top of the Clérigos Tower.

For the latter part of the day and evening visit the ancient Ribeira district, which lines the banks of the Douro River. For the evening, join one of the boat cruises along the river or to party head to the Vitória district.

On the morning of the second day, ride the traditional tram to the Foz district, which is positioned at the mouth of the Douro River and extends along a rocky coastline to the beach of Matosinhos.

In the afternoon, and the highlight of Porto, are the tours of the Port cellars and Port tasting. Lining the southern banks of the Douro River are eight of the major Port producers, each with their vast cellars and tasting tours. You’ll happily leave Porto a Port connoisseur and a little tipsy…

Port tasting tour cellar

Port tasting at the Sandeman cellars– an enjoyable activity and a great way to meet fellow travellers

48hours in Budapest
Day 1: Begin your journey on the Pest side of the city, where the magnificent Dohány Street Synagogue resides. This landmark is not only pivotal to Budapest but also stands as the largest synagogue in Europe. Following this, take a stroll along Andrássy Avenue, a grand boulevard and UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with Neo-Classical mansions.

Delve into Hungary’s tumultuous history with a visit to the House of Terror museum, situated at one end of the avenue. Subsequently, unwind with a spa session at the renowned Széchenyi Baths, celebrated for its Art Deco architecture. Cap off the day with a hearty dinner at Gettó Gulyás, indulging in their signature paprika-smoked goulash, and conclude your evening with a drink at Szimpla Kert, a mesmerizing art gallery turned bar.

Budapest Pest cathedral

Pest cathedral

Day 2: Start your day with breakfast at the historic Central Market Hall, established in 1897. Savour the taste of sweet Hungarian pastries before crossing the Danube via the striking Liberty Bridge.

Upon arrival, you have the option to visit the elegant Gellért Baths or continue your journey to the Fisherman's Bastion and the Citadella, former military strongholds that now offer breathtaking views of the Danube. A northward stroll leads you to the Castle District, where you can either admire the architecture from the outside or explore the regal court rooms inside.

Don’t miss the chance to capture some photos of the imposing Hungarian Parliament Building across the river. Conclude your day with dinner in the Inner City of Pest, offering a diverse range of dining options from Tex-Mex restaurants to atmospheric 1930s speakeasies.

Gellért Hill Budapest

Gellért Hill offers some of the best views of Budapest, the hill is named after Saint Gerard who was murdered in 1065 by being put in a barrel and rolled down the hill…

Travelling to and around Budapest is super easy. There's an efficient underground network. Tickets for that cost 350 HUF per ride with a single transfer allowed. You can also use river boats (HUF750 per journey) and buses (350 HUF).

Taxis are rarely needed, but they are cheap, costing 280 HUF per kilometer. Be sure to insist your driver puts the meter on, and never accept offers from taxi touts at the airport.

Fisherman's Bastion Budapest

The Fisherman's Bastion, Budapest

Talking of the airport, Budapest Airport sits around 22 kilometers from the city center. You can get to and from the terminals using the dedicated express bus (€2) or by train (€2.70). Both options take between 30-40 minutes. Be sure to buy tickets at machines by the stops – they're more expensive when purchased direct from drivers.

When it comes to picking hotels in Budapest, you're best off focussing on the Pest side of the city. That's where the bulk of the best lodgings are located. Being in the Jewish Quarter can be noisy, but perfect if you want to hit the nightlife of Szimpla and the other ruin bars. The Inner City area is charming and quieter, with some boutique options. Meanwhile, Újlipótváros is a local's favourite, with its cool cafés and art galleries and sleek Airbnbs.
Related articles: Where to stay in Budapest

Budapest is largely safe and crime statistics are in line with European norms. Some well-known scams include taxi drivers who overcharge and sellers of fake goods. Pickpocketing is also a rare but real problem. Just be aware of your personal possessions and be vigilante, especially when on public transportation.

Price wise, Budapest is surely up there with the cheapest of European capitals. A large beer can cost as little as 500 HUF (€1.50). Food in a midrange restaurant will set you back between 2,000 HUF and 3,000 HUF (€6-9). Nights in hotels are noticeably less than in nearby Vienna, too.

Porto is a recommended destination for an alternative city break. Porto has a single airport which is 12km north of the historic centre and is connected by the metro. Porto has fewer flight routes and departures than other major cities, which means demand for weekend flights can be high. Equally, during the low season, there are bargain flights to be found.

Accommodation tends to be good value with ample supply, and most tourists are based in the Vitória, Sé or Baixa districts (all on the north side of the river). Porto can be easily explored on foot and rarely any public transport or taxis are needed for the entire trip. Just beware, there are steep hills!

porto Douro bridge

The pretty historic centre of Porto

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