When temperatures rise to 35°C, the question arises: should you spend your days in Lisbon or Porto? This question will also arise for anyone planning a holiday in Portugal.
The rivalry between these two Portuguese cities is well known. But according to a recent report, it seems that one of the two cities has a slight edge in terms of tourist reputation. Find out which one.
Lisbon: the capital of sunshine
Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, enjoys the most sunny days of any European capital. With its breathtaking views, charming cobbled streets and numerous miradouros (viewpoints), Lisbon attracts millions of visitors every year. Nearby beaches and famous music festivals such as Rock in Rio and NOS Alive add to its appeal.
Lisbon highlights
- Unique light: Lisbon is famous for the golden light that floods the city.
- Miradouros: The many belvederes offer spectacular panoramic views.
- Music festivals: Events such as Rock in Rio, NOS Alive and MEO Kalorama attract international crowds.
- Close to the beaches: Just half an hour from the city centre, the beaches are within easy reach.
- Rich culture: The city is packed with museums, historic monuments and picturesque neighbourhoods.
With a score of 73.5 out of 100 in OnStrategy’s RepScore study, Lisbon ranks just behind Porto in terms of tourist reputation.
Porto: the wine capital
Porto, famous for its wines and magnificent views of the Douro River, is also a top tourist destination. This city in northern Portugal was recently named as having the best tourism reputation in a study conducted by OnStrategy, beating Lisbon by a narrow margin.
Highlights of Porto
- Architecture and azulejos: Porto is famous for its buildings covered in colourful tiles.
- Views of the Douro: The panoramic views of the river are breathtaking.
- Romantic atmosphere: 82% of locals think it’s easy to find love in Porto.
- Food and wine: Porto is a destination of choice for wine and food lovers.
- Hospitality: 98% of residents think their city is beautiful and welcoming.
With a score of 74.3 out of 100, Porto stands out as the Portuguese city with the best reputation for tourism, according to the RepScore study.
Comparison of tourist regions in Portugal
The OnStrategy study also evaluated Portugal’s tourist regions. The North stands out with a score of 74.5, slightly ahead of Lisbon (74.2) and the Azores (74.1).
Regional rankings
- North – 74.5
- Lisbon – 74.2
- Azores – 74.1
- Central Portugal – 73.7
- Madeira – 73.6
- Cascais – 73.1
- Algarve – 72.8
- Alentejo and Ribatejo – 72.4
Conclusion: two jewels not to be missed
Whether you choose Lisbon or Porto, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Both cities offer a wealth of culture, stunning scenery and warm hospitality. Whether you’re drawn to Lisbon’s lively festivals or Porto’s renowned wines, each city has something unique to offer. The final choice will depend on your personal preferences, but one thing is certain: Portugal will never disappoint.
