When it comes to comparing cities, size is often a point of interest. Two popular European destinations that are often compared are Madrid and Lisbon.
But which one is bigger? Let’s take a closer look.
Geographical Area
In terms of geographical area, Madrid is the larger city. It covers an area of 604.3 square kilometers, while Lisbon covers an area of 100.05 square kilometers. So, if we’re talking about which city covers more land, Madrid takes the lead.
Population
However, when it comes to population, Lisbon has the upper hand. According to recent estimates from Eurostat, Lisbon has a population of around 547,000 people, while Madrid has a population of approximately 3.3 million people.
Density
But what about population density? If we look at the number of people per square kilometer, we see that Madrid is much more densely populated than Lisbon. Madrid has a population density of around 5,400 people per square kilometer, while Lisbon has a density of just over 5,400 people per square kilometer.
Cultural Offerings
Of course, when it comes to comparing cities, size isn’t everything. Both Madrid and Lisbon have plenty to offer culturally and historically.
In Madrid, visitors can explore world-renowned museums like the Prado or Reina Sofia Museum or catch a show at the famous Teatro Real opera house. The city is also known for its stunning architecture and lively nightlife scene.
In Lisbon, visitors can explore historic neighborhoods like Alfama or Belém and indulge in Portuguese cuisine like fresh seafood or pastel de nata (a delicious custard tart). The city also boasts beautiful landmarks like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
Conclusion
So which city is bigger? It depends on how you look at it.
If we’re talking about geographical area, Madrid is the larger city. But if we’re talking about population or population density, Lisbon comes out on top. Ultimately, both cities have a lot to offer visitors in terms of culture, history, and entertainment.