Planning your next vacation and stuck between Italy and Portugal? It’s a tough choice, but the good news is, you can’t go wrong with either. Either way, you’re going to have ana mazing holiday.
Both countries are full of historical and cultural sites, boast breathtaking landscapes, and offer incredible food and drink that will leave you dreaming of long outdoor lunches and local wines long after you return.
But Portugal and Italy each have their own unique charm, and their pros and cons as a holiday destination. Ok, maybe only tiny cons. Here’s a look at each one to help you decide where to book next!
Portugal: Old World Meets New
A holiday in Portugal gives you the best of old and new world charm. Lisbon is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, and has seen a boom in people emigrating to live and work there. The famous bright yellow trams, steep hills, and buzzing local markets are all part of the city’s charm, alongside historical spots like Jeronimos Monastery and the old façades of buildings in the centre.
Porto, which you probably know thanks to the port wine, is much smaller than Lisbon but no less magical. Here you’ll find a glimpse of a bygone era where people gather along the river, enjoy traditional fado music at night, and buy their groceries at local markets.
Outside these cities, places like Sintra and the Algarve show a different side of Portugal. Sintra is surrounded by green forests and is home to Pena Palace, which looks like it was plucked straight from a fairytale. The Algarve boasts some of the best beaches and coastal views in Europe.
Portugal may be smaller than Italy, but it packs a punch. You can explore a lot in a short time, and everything feels accessible.
Pros of Portugal:
- More affordable for budget travellers
- Easy to visit multiple destinations
- Stunning coastlines and charming towns
- Historical charm
Cons of Portugal:
- Smaller variety of historical sites compared to Italy
- Less globally renowned cuisine (but still delicious)
Italy: Beautiful, Arty, and Historic
A trip to Italy is truly magical, like visiting a living (and far from boring!) museum. It’s brimming with history and art, no matter where you go. Stroll through the streets of Rome where you can almost hear the echoes of gladiators in the Colosseum, or spend time in silence admiring the work inside the Vatican. Florence is a wine haven and art-lover’s paradise while in Venice, there’s undeniable romance amongst historic bridges and faded-green canals.
Outside the famous cities, there’s still plenty on offer. The Italian landscape offers an incredible amount of variety – from skiing in the Dolomites to sunbathing in Sicily. There are the gorgeous lakes of Como and Garda in the north, the cliff-lined Amalfi Coast in the south, and no shortage of rolling vineyard landscapes either. Photography lovers shouldn’t miss the Cinque Terre, where colourful villages cling to rugged cliffs along the coastline.
Pros of Italy:
- Lots of history and art
- Landscapes from mountains to beaches
- Famous cuisine
- Iconic cities to tick off the bucket list
Cons of Italy:
- More expensive than Portugal
- Larger and requires more travelling time
Does Portugal or Italy Have Better Food?
We all know that a good dinner can change your day – and a week of eating can make or break a holiday. Food is a major highlight in both Italy and Portugal, but the culinary experiences are quite different.
In Italy, the cuisine is globally famous. Think pasta, pizza, pesto, and gelato. Each region offers its own specialities: Naples is known for its pizza, Rome for its pasta, Milan for ossobuco, and Sicily for fresh seafood. Italy’s wine and coffee culture is also second to none.
In Portugal, the food scene might be less famous. But honestly, it’s equally delicious. Porto’s francesinha, a sandwich full of meat and melted cheese then smothered in tomato sauce, is a must-try. Seafood lovers will enjoy dishes like grilled sardines and bacalhau (salt cod). And then there’s pastel de nata, the iconic custard tart, perfect with a coffee. Portugal also excels in wine and port, and you’ll find freshly squeezed orange juice in almost every shop, café, and corner stand.
Pros of Italian Food:
- World-renowned dishes
- High-quality wine and coffee
- New culinary traditions in every region
Pros of Portuguese Food:
- Fresh seafood and hearty meats
- Famous desserts like pastel de nata
- Affordable dining options
Comparing Costs: Is Italy or Portugal More Budget-Friendly?
Portugal generally offers more budget-friendly options for South African travellers. Everyday expenses like dining out, accommodation, and transportation are usually cheaper in Portugal. The dining scene is affordable, with delicious seafood dishes and local specialities that won’t break the bank.
Italy can be more expensive, especially in major tourist cities. While the food and wine are incredible, dining in popular areas can add up. Entry fees to historical sites and museums can also increase your expenses. For a cost-effective European adventure, Portugal might be the better choice.
Getting There from South Africa
Travelling to either Italy or Portugal from South Africa is straightforward. Direct flights to cities like Rome and Lisbon take just over 10 hours. There are also one-stop options via major European or Middle Eastern cities, which might be more economical or convenient depending on your travel plans. Flight Centre can help you choose the best flights to suit your schedule and budget.
Final Verdict: Italy or Portugal?
Deciding between Italy and Portugal comes down to what you’re looking for in a holiday.
Choose Italy if:
- You’re passionate about history and art
- You enjoy diverse landscapes from mountains to beaches
- You’re a foodie eager to explore world-famous cuisine
Choose Portugal if:
- You’re on a budget but want a high-quality experience
- You love stunning coastal views and beautiful beaches
- You prefer a laid-back and relaxed travel vibe
Both Italy and Portugal promise unforgettable experiences that will leave you with wonderful travel memories. Ready to book your next adventure? Speak to a Flight Centre travel expert today.