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

We understand your dilemma. There is an abundance of travel guides for both cities, but few actually comparing them, and advising you which is the better for your trip.
This article will provide our unbiased and independent views of Lisbon and Naples, hopefully making your choice that little easier.

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?)

In many ways, Naples is split in two halves; a town of shadow and light.
There's the Naples of pizza dough and La Dolce Vita, which is all about kicking it by the azure Tyrrhenian Sea with good food and great wine.
Then there's the gritty city, whose reputation comes from the Camorra mafiosos and the ramshackle alleys around Spaccanapoli street. Both are immersive and interesting in their own right

Put simply, Naples is one of the most authentic and enthralling cities in Italy. The self-proclaimed capital of the south, it's got Roman history and gorgeous landscapes in equal measure.
It promises something for honeymooners, backpackers, foodies, and outdoorsy types, but won't sugar-coat the experience with anything special for tourists.

The Spaccanapoli cuts Naples in two and transitions from the old to modern sides of the city

Lisbon is a progressive and liberal city, which still retains its rich seafaring history and distinctive Portuguese heritage. The city effortlessly blends history, vibrant culture and exciting nightlife into one charismatic tourist destination.

Lisbon is a city of compact variety; you can get lost in the maze of narrow streets in the Alfama district, be wowed by the grandeur of the plazas in Baixa or join the hipsters and fashionistas in the Principe Real. Close to the city are glorious sandy beaches, and Lisbon boasts one of the finest climates in Europe. This is an amazing city, which you must visit.

The harbour front in Naples

The number 28 tram passing the Se cathedral in Lisbon

Do you agree with us? Why not provide your own scores for Lisbon here

Summary
Where would I journey for a personal escape?
Lisbon
Where would I send my parents for a memorable visit?
Lisbon
Where's the ideal destination for my adventurous 19-year-old cousin?
Lisbon
Where should my food-obsessed friend indulge their culinary passions?
Lisbon
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!

Lisbon is a diverse and exciting city that you’ll need at least three days to fully see.
Many visitors also include Sintra as part of their stay, but at a minimum, but we recommend spending at least two full days in Lisbon itself.

If you are fortunate enough to have a longer stay, there are many enjoyable day trips, including the palaces of Sintra, the beach resorts of Cascais or the historic towns of Obidos and Evora.

In the summer, you could also visit the beautiful beaches along the Cascais or Costa Caparica coastlines. Best of all, these day trips can all be reached via the inexpensive public transportation.
Related articles: 3 days in Lisbon – 48 hours in Lisbon

That's a tricky one. Naples itself can be seen from tip to toe in just a couple of days. We'd say around 48 hours is perfect for tasting Neapolitan pizzas in legendary L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele and feeling the vibes down lively Spaccanapoli – the main drag in the historic centre.

For a longer stay of five to seven days, there's a catch: A lot of Naples's main draws are outside of town. Think the likes of Pompeii, the soaring crater of Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast. To add those on, you'll need to plan to come here for considerably more time.

A tourist cruise boat passing beneath the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge in Lisbon

The obelisk of San Gennaro in the Piazza Riario Sforza

Spring is the best time of year in Naples. This southern city gets warm nice and early, so you can expect April highs in the 20s and even enough sun to hit the beaches of Gaiola and the local lidos if you want to take a dip in the Med. There are fewer other travellers about before the summer rush too, which means you'll find it more pleasant strolling the historic centre and Pompeii.

Of course, that's not to say the summer is bad in these parts. It most certainly isn't. Reliable warmth and loads of sunshine, topped off with a buzz about town, help make the months between June and August great options. Just be prepared to pay extra for hotels and flights, and don't expect the city to be quiet.

The recommended time to visit Lisbon is in the late spring and early autumn, when the city is sunny and warm, but without the summertime crowds.

Lisbon is subject to the pressures of over-tourism at times, most notably being incredibly crowded during the summer months in the popular tourist areas, such as the Belem district and Sintra.

Due to the increased popularity of Lisbon, it is becoming a year-round destination, however, be warned that the winter months can be wet and cool.

Our favourite time of year to visit Lisbon is during the first two weeks of June, when the whole city celebrates the Santos Populares festivals with street parties and traditional dances.

Lisbon has a wide appeal; there are cultural sights, a buzzing nightlife and a blossoming artisan scene. The city will appeal to young or old, either for a cultural trip or as a fun weekend away.

In the summer (May-Sep) the beaches make for a really good extension to your trip and are easily accessible from the city. There is little to fault Lisbon and most visitors leave with fond memories of the city.

Naples is a raw and immersive Italian city. It's got pizza places that are frequented by locals. It's got wine bars serving gorgeous Campanian tipples. It's lived-in and gritty and real. That makes it perfect for city hoppers who like atmosphere and energy. And the joys don't end there…

Just around the Bay of Naples are two of the country's most impressive archaeological sites: Pompeii and Herculaneum. They'll entertain the history lovers, along with the likes of the Castel dell'Ovo and the vast Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Loved-up duos might also want to make Naples a pitstop on a couple's break to the impossibly gorgeous Amalfi Coast that lies to the south.

Naples isn't for those who like small, easy-going towns where there's lots of room. It's crammed between the volcanos and the sea, so things are compact in the centre. It can also be quite hectic, with touts and traffic.

The Piazza Plebiscito is the grand square of Naples

There are beautiful beaches only a short train ride away from the centre of Lisbon