Oregon’s largest city, with no sales tax — the price on the tag is what you pay; famous for 500-plus food carts, doughnuts and craft beer, and for its rose and Japanese gardens beneath Mount Hood.
Weather: June–September is dry and sunny — the best time; October–May is the rainy season. source
Times to avoid: October–May is wet; pack a rain jacket and plan around indoor food halls. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Portland
Portland Japanese Garden A hillside Japanese garden with Mount Hood views on clear days; tickets are sold online. source
Food carts 500-plus carts gathered in “pods” serving affordable food from around the world. source
Tax-free shopping Oregon has no sales tax, so you pay the price on the tag. source
Where to stay in Portland
Downtown
On the MAX light rail, near food carts, bookshops and shopping.
Pearl District
Converted warehouses full of galleries and restaurants.
What to eat in Portland
Doughnuts — Portland’s quirky doughnuts, led by Voodoo Doughnut
Marionberry Pie — Oregon’s state pie, made with the local marionberry
Food Cart Meals — Affordable global dishes from food-cart pods
Portland tips and things to watch out for
Portland travel tips
Oregon has no sales tax, so menus carry no tax — but an 18–20% tip is still expected. source
Airport to city: the MAX Red Line runs from PDX to downtown on the standard $2.80 fare, valid 2½ hours; tap a contactless card to ride. source
Good to know in United States
In the US, sales tax may be added to the displayed price depending on the place and product. Check a restaurant menu for extra charges before ordering. source
In LA, both public transit and ride-hailing are available. Check Metro routes and ride-hail pickup points before moving between sights. source
Watch out for in United States
Car break-ins are common; never leave bags or anything visible in a parked car. source
In unfamiliar parts of the US, avoid walking alone through quiet areas, especially at night. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Portland are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in United States.
Portland attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
Portland Japanese Garden (Adult): $22.50 · child $16.50