The verdict
Lisbon is the cheaper of the two on most everyday items, though the gap has narrowed sharply as Lisbon's tourist pricing caught up.
Lisbon — typical day
$153
Barcelona — typical day
$396
Across 5 identical items, Barcelona comes out roughly 5% cheaper on local prices.
Choose Lisbon if you want lower prices, hillside views and easier day trips on a smaller budget.
Choose Barcelona if you want a beach, Gaudí and a bigger city with more competition on price in outer barrios.
Lisbon still undercuts Barcelona on lodging and coffee, but Barcelona's larger local economy means non-touristy neighbourhoods like Gràcia or Sant Antoni can beat Lisbon's centre. Both cities punish anyone eating on the main tourist artery.
Local prices — what residents pay, not the tourist rate.
Cross-currency comparisons converted via USD at current rates.
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Try SpendSanity For FreeLisbon is the cheaper of the two on most everyday items, though the gap has narrowed sharply as Lisbon's tourist pricing caught up.
Choose Lisbon if you want lower prices, hillside views and easier day trips on a smaller budget. Choose Barcelona if you want a beach, Gaudí and a bigger city with more competition on price in outer barrios.
Lisbon still undercuts Barcelona on lodging and coffee, but Barcelona's larger local economy means non-touristy neighbourhoods like Gràcia or Sant Antoni can beat Lisbon's centre. Both cities punish anyone eating on the main tourist artery.
La Rambla in Barcelona is the single worst-value street in the city.