Portugal Travel Budget - Visit Portugal on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Portugal is a very popular country that's famous for Praia da Falesia in Albufeira, Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, and Praia da Rocha in Portimao. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip. This will help you plan the best trip to Portugal and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the energy of Lisbon or eating the delicious cuisine in Porto.

How much does it cost to travel to Portugal?

You should plan to spend around $178 (€163) per day on your vacation in Portugal. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $73 (€67) on meals
  • $29 (€27) on local transportation
  • $128 (€118) on hotels

A one week trip to Portugal for two people costs, on average, $2,487 (€2,282). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $178
    €163
  • One Week Per person
    $1,243
    €1,141
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,487
    €2,282
  • One Month Per person
    $5,329
    €4,890
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,487
    €2,282
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $4,974
    €4,564
  • One Month For a couple
    $10,658
    €9,780
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Portugal cost?

A one week trip to Portugal usually costs around $1,243 (€1,141) for one person and $2,487 (€2,282) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Portugal on average costs around $2,487 (€2,282) for one person and $4,974 (€4,564) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Portugal will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Portugal on average costs around $5,329 (€4,890) for one person and $10,658 (€9,780) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Portugal?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Portugal is $250 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Portugal expensive to visit?

Portugal is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Portugal is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Slovakia or Ireland.

Portugal offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.

It's true that Portugal can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.

On average, budget travelers spend $73 (€67) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $178 (€163) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $412 (€377) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Portugal.

For more details, see Is Portugal Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Portugal?

The average Portugal trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Portugal travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Portugal cost?

Portugal on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$27
(€25) 		$64
(€59) 		$139
(€128)
Local Transportation 1 $11
(€10) 		$29
(€27) 		$75
(€69)
Food 2 $30
(€28) 		$73
(€67) 		$163
(€150)
Entertainment 1 $9.38
(€8.61) 		$24
(€22) 		$60
(€55)
Alcohol 2 $4-11
(€3-10) 		$9-27
(€8-25) 		$21-62
(€19-57)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Funchal, Portugal Funchal, Portugal

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.

What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?

Many travelers hear that exploring Portugal can be done for $73 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.

Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.

Fortunately, Portugal has a significant number of hostels, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos. While food is a major attraction for all kinds of visitors to Portugal, budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare meals in their hostel, which means they might miss out on this culinary aspect of the country.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. You won't want to miss Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon, Cais da Ribeira in Porto, or the Arco da Vila in Faro. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $178 per person, per day.

Portugal has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Lagos and Portimao offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider Herdade Monte Do Sol in Aljezur or 1872 River House in Porto. If you're a couple visiting Manteigas, consider staying at Casa De Sao Lourenco for a romantic getaway. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Portugal here.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $412 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Costa de Prata and Portimao. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Bike Across Portugal Plus! The Coast - offered by ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours.

Accommodation Budget in Portugal

The variety of accommodation prices in Portugal can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Portugal for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $128 (€118). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $64 (€59) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $64
    €59
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $128
    €118

Hotels in Portugal

Looking for a hotel in Portugal? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Portugal

The average hotel room price in Portugal based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $99 in the low season and $185 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Lisbon
Lisbon is a large city that is one of the more popular destinations in Portugal. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Lisbon, the average hotel price is $109 in the low season and $203 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $130 to $243. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $18 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Hotel da Baixa for $133 and Portugal Boutique Hotel starting at $111. Since travelers often stay up to seven days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.

Porto
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Porto. You can expect to spend anywhere from $53 to $254 depending on your budget and needs. Most visitors to Porto stay up to five days, so you'll want to find a comfortable and convenient place if you're staying for a while. Also, a great hotel option is Casa S Miguel 6 that runs about $240 per night. You can expect to pay around $17 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.

Faro
As one of the more popular destinations, Faro offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $41 in the low season to $299 during the busy peak season. As many travelers stay up to five days, you should make sure to find a comfortable place in a good location if you're planning to explore for a while. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Mercedes Country House for $105 and Quinta dos Poetas Nature Hotel & Apartments starting at $46. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $30 for a dorm bed.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Portugal

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $29 (€27) per person, per day, on local transportation in Portugal. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Portugal is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $29
    €27
Local Transportation Tips

Portugal has an excellent train system that will connect you to almost everywhere in the country. The prices are reasonable and the rides are comfortable and fast. Long distance and regional buses can fill in when the rail lines don't reach your destination.

In Portugal, public transit options are somewhat limited in many cities, especially if you're not heading to Lisbon. It's advisable to rent a car or arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.

If your plans include a trip to the countryside, you'll probably want to rent a car. Remember that the usual vehicle in Europe is equipped with a manual transmission, and choosing an automatic will likely increase the cost. Be sure to book in advance, as the more economical choices can disappear quickly.

In busy Lisbon, it's much simpler to avoid driving, given the heavy traffic and congestion. Parking fees can be steep, making a car rental less appealing. Instead, consider using public transportation or walking to get around and keep your costs down.

If you plan on driving in one of the bigger cities, be sure to check with your hotel about parking ahead of time. You may be required to pay for parking either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. In some cases, parking further out of town could be cheaper.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

The typical transit costs in Portugal are outlined below, based on data from actual travelers. These figures provide an estimate of overall transportation expenses in the city. Remember, your personal costs will depend on how you choose to get around, as taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than using public transportation.


  • Taxi Ride
    €6.50


Food Budget in Portugal

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Portugal can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Portugal is $73 (€67) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $73
    €67

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Portugal is around $73 (€67) per person, with previous travelers spending from $30 to $163. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Portugal are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $13 to $22
  • Lunch: $11 to $36
  • Dinner: $25 to $58
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

Caldo Verde: Caldo verde is a soup dish made from potatoes, kale, and chourico sausage. It's often served during celebrations such as weddings, but it's also sometimes offered as a main dish for dinner.

Bacalhau: This is a common Portuguese ingredient that is made from dried and salted codfish. It is common in many different popular dishes in Portugal and is most often used in Christmas dishes.

Pastel de Nata: This is a pastry like tart made from eggs. It's similar to small pies that are filled with custard. It's available in bakeries throughout the country and has even spread to Macau and Hong Kong where it is a popular dessert with dim sum.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Known worldwide for its outstanding cuisine, Portugal is a hugely popular food destination. The food alone draws many visitors. Some of the top cities for food enthusiasts are Lisbon, Porto, and Albufeira.

Lisbon
One of the best culinary spots in Portugal is Lisbon. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Porto
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Porto. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Albufeira
Albufeira is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Lagos
Lagos is well known for its food scene. The city offers some of the best food in the Algarve. The old town has plenty of restaurants that are both affordable and high quality. Seafood is the obvious choice, but you'll also find tapas, paellas, and local dishes such as cataplana (a seafood and chorizo stew). Most restaurants serve up a local fish of the day as well as prawns and other seafood items.

Food & Dining Tips

When visiting larger cities like Lisbon, Porto, or Albufeira, you can save some money by opting for lunch at nicer restaurants rather than dinner. Many restaurants in tourist districts or business centers feature lunch specials that are typically smaller and cheaper than their dinner offerings. With a little effort, you might be able to enjoy a complete multi-course gourmet meal at a budget-friendly price. Just plan for a lighter dinner afterwards.

If you're enjoying a stay in a sought-after resort area like Albufeira, Lagos, or Portimao, resorts typically offer various food options, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the details to understand the pricing structure. Some resorts provide full board, which means all meals are included, whereas others might offer half board, covering only two meals. Additionally, on-site restaurants might exist that could be included in your stay or not. Also, drinks may sometimes be included, but that's not always the case. Be sure to check with the resort ahead of time to clarify which meals and drinks may incur extra charges.

If you're looking at a week-long stay or longer in Albufeira, Lagos, or Lisbon, consider that families or groups might do well in an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen. You can save by preparing your meals with economical groceries instead of dining out.

When you have children in tow, look for places that provide a kids menu. This can be a great way to cut costs, as those meals are often much cheaper. Since some restaurants don't list the kids' options, make sure to ask the waiter before you decide.

Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, but some charge extra for this service. Prices and quality can vary based on the hotel. Being informed in advance can help you decide whether to indulge in a lavish hotel buffet or simply visit a nearby bakery or café that may offer cheaper options.

Carrying a water bottle is a smart choice instead of buying drinks. It's also a way to support the environment.

When planning a tour, it's important to clarify in advance which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for paying for some meals yourself, which could increase your overall expenses.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Portugal, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Portuguese Cooking Class in Lisbon for $85 details
  • Traditional Cooking Class, Farm Tour & Lunch in the Douro Valley for $103 details
  • Porto Market Tour & Cooking Class - Half Day for $208 details
  • Portuguese 'Petiscos' Cooking Class for $86 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical food prices in Portugal, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.


  • Lunch for Two
    €13
  • Coffee
    €1.40
  • Coffee
    €2.50
  • Pizzaria Lunch (for 2)
    €15


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Portugal

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Portugal typically cost an average of $24 (€22) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $24
    €22
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

Portugal is an extremely popular travel destination, and offers many visitors a chance to check off many places on their bucket list. Some of the most popular destinations in Portugal include Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimao.

Albufeira
Albufeira may have once been a quiet fishing town but today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal. It's the largest resort town in the Algarve and there is little left of the traditional life that once was. The area is synonymous with lively parties, particularly along "the Strip." The beaches are golden and beautiful, and because it's the most built up town in the Algarve, you'll also find no shortage of activities including snorkeling, dolphin watching, theme parks, and more.

Lagos
Lagos has long been a favorite holiday destination for both European and international travelers. The resort town is famous for its stunning golden beaches that have dramatic rock formations as well as stretches of sand. The town itself has a historic center with many great restaurants and a fun atmosphere. The area is popular with all types of travelers, from backpackers to families, honeymooners, and resort-goers.

Portimao
Portimao is the second largest city in the Algarve and it's filled with stunning beauty and plenty of energy. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha Beach, which has beautiful red cliffs and a large stretch of sand. The city is popular with all types of travelers and you'll find many different activities that you can enjoy including kayaking through the caves, swimming in the warm waters, taking a surfing lesson, or partying late into the night.

Lisbon
Lisbon is a beautiful and historic capital city that has dramatic hills and a scenic coastal setting. The old city is filled with pastel buildings and wandering streets. There are also tuk tuk tours and many amazing cafes that you can enjoy.

Porto
Porto offers the perfect combination of tourist attractions and authenticity. The street art gives the city a culture of its own. There are also cellar tours where you can experience and enjoy port. Seaford lovers will appreciate the many Portuguese restaurants around town. There are also many museums and outdoor activities to choose from.

Sightseeing Tips

Among the most stunning and beautiful spots to explore in Portugal are Lagos, Portimao, and Lisbon. These unforgettable locations are sure to leave you in awe and should definitely be on your must-visit list.

When the weather is nice, Portugal becomes a prime destination for beach vacations. Visitors flock to the shores around Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimao for a mix of relaxation and fun.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Portugal. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Private Terceira Island Full Day Tour for $129 details
  • PRIVATE Unforgettable Full Day Tour to Sintra from Lisbon for $176 details
  • Private Rafting Experience in Melgaço for $48 details
  • Private Walking Tour of Highlights Locations in Evora for $64 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Portugal

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $18 (€16) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Portugal per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $18
    €16
Popular Nightlife Destinations

Portugal has become a major hotspot for nightlife, with visitors flocking from all corners of the world to join the fun. Among the best nightlife cities are Albufeira, Lisbon, and Lagos.

Albufeira
Visitors love the nightlife in Albufeira. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

Lisbon
The nightlife in Lisbon is quite popular. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Lagos
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Lagos. The city has a mellow vibe, even at night, but that's not to say there aren't good parties going on, particularly during the peak of the travel season. There's a local charm to the nightlife scene here and you'll likely start to recognize other party-goers. Many of the bars are housed in character-filled old buildings which can feel a bit cramped, but that's all part of the charm.

Portimao
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Portimao. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.

Porto
Nightlife in Porto is not to be missed. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Nightlife Tips

Sure, nightlife is a top travel activity, but if you want to save money, reducing how much you drink is a great way to start.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Portugal. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Classic Wine Tasting with GUIDED TOUR for $21 details
  • Arrabida, Setubal, Sesimbra, Azeitao wine tasting private tour for $107 details
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl in Lisbon with Local Guide for $53 details
  • Lisbon's authentic Food and Wine tour with a Winemaker for $118 details

Recommended


Setubal, Portugal Setubal, Portugal

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • Portugal is a popular destination for tourists and the prices can climb dramatically during the peak season. Most places in Portugal see the biggest crowds during the summer season. Hotels fill up and accommodation prices become more expensive during this time of the year. If you want to keep your budget low, then it's better to visit during the shoulder and low seasons.
  • Places like Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimao are particularly favored by travelers, so be prepared for bigger crowds and increased prices during busy seasons. Anticipate large crowds of other tourists, and be ready for well-known attractions to have long lines, sold-out tickets, and increased costs. At all locations, but especially at these hotspots, aim to book reservations several months ahead if you can.
  • In some destinations, it's pretty common for stay for an entire week or more. Places like Albufeira, Lagos, and Lisbon are perfect for week-long getaways, and many families, especially those with kids, prefer to book an apartment or vacation rental. This option gives you more space to relax, plus handy amenities like a kitchen, which makes it easier to save a bit of cash while still enjoying a comfortable stay.
  • This is a country that attracts plenty of backpackers and young budget travelers. If that's your crowd, you'll find tons of hostels and budget-friendly activities in many places. If you're young and looking to meet up with likeminded people, then Albufeira, Lagos, and Lisbon are great options where you can stay cheap, meet other travelers, and have a great time.
  • Many couples enjoy a fun or relaxing honeymoon in Portugal. Or, perhaps it's just a romantic getaway or an exciting weekend trip. Either way, this country has many great areas to explore with your love. Some of the most romantic spots are Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimao.
  • Portugal is a popular choice for families looking to vacation together. There are many fantastic family-friendly spots to explore, such as Lagos, Portimao, and Lisbon. Children will have a blast with all the kid-friendly activities, and adults will stay engaged and entertained, too.
  • Many travelers enjoy a relaxing resort vacation without the hassle of planning or traveling around. Luxury resorts offer relaxing accommodation combined with fun activities and great food. If you're looking for a relaxing spot where you can pamper yourself in style, then head to Albufeira, Lagos, or Portimao. Youll find some of Portugal's best resorts in these areas.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Portugal has limited options for public transportation unless you're visiting places like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. You should plan to rent a car or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. This may cut into your budget elsewhere.
  • When you're traveling with young kids, a private vehicle or taxi is often the more convenient choice. While it saves you the trouble of public transit, it will come at a higher cost.

  • If you're traveling as a family to places like Lisbon, be aware that many hotels may not have enough space for a family of four. You might need to look for larger places outside the city, or consider booking two rooms.


Peniche, Portugal Peniche, Portugal
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Portugal.

Why would you recommend Portugal to budget travelers? Or, why not?

We're backpackers and we loved the cities like Lisbon and Porto, but the coastal areas felt like they were more popular with families on vacation.

camille_5474
-
May 5 2024

We backpacked through Portugal for a few weeks. It's an amazing country! There are also tons of hostels and plenty of great opportunities to meet other travelers.

Judith
-
Feb 18 2024

What makes Portugal a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We rented a car and drove. It was a great way to see the less touristy parts of the country, and it was surprisingly cheap to rent the car.

Rebecca
-
Nov 3 2023

We spent a week in Portugal at an all-inclusive resort. It was in October and the prices were cheap. The meals were included and they were decent but not amazing.

Mark
-
Nov 1 2023

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Portugal is on the Iberian Peninsula which it shares with Spain. It's a diverse country that has its own unique culture and a variety of beautiful natural landscapes. In particular, Portugal has the cliff beaches of Algarve, beautiful rural countryside, energetic cities, a traditional culture, beautiful lush green vineyards, and so much more. This beautiful country has managed to maintain its own unique rich culture while other nearby countries in Europe merge and modernize. It has rural areas that still feel a world away from the nearby cosmopolitan cities. There are parts of the country that still feel like you've stepped back in time. Even in the cosmopolitan city of Lisbon you can get lost of the back alleyways and catch a glimpse of a city that once was.

Portugal was once on of the most economically poor countries in Western Europe, but when the dictatorship ended in 1974 and it later joined the European Union, its wealth and modern amenities grew and began to thrive. Over the last few decades it has grown in popularity amongst tourist. International tourists frequently visit this fascinating city, but European tourists flock here, particularly during the cold winter months when they head south to escape the frigid temperatures. Beach towns are now filled with expats who've bought second homes in the area. With the crowds has come a significant rise in costs throughout the country. It is no longer the budget destination it once was, but it is still cheaper than most of Western Europe if you plan ahead and travel to the right places.

To keep your expenses to a minimum during your trip to Portugal, try to avoid the more popular beach towns. Cities like Lisbon also tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Book your hotels and train tickets in advance and travel during the off season when the crowds are less and the prices are lower. One interesting tip is that most museums are free to the public on Sundays, so try to schedule any museums visits on this day. Also be sure and eat at restaurants that are at least a few blocks from popular tourist attractions as these restaurants will be less likely to target out of town visitors. Ask residents where they recommend you go for a good Portuguese meal and you likely won't be disappointed. Also be sure and enjoy dessert at any of the bakeries you'll find around town.

Top Tourist Attractions

Costa Vincentina National Park: This national park is a stunning cliff that dramatically drops into the water. It's a beautiful place to watch the sunset and a nice place to see the ocean.

Fado Bars in Alfama: This neighborhood is a wonderfully historic area worth exploring in Lisbon. It goes down the hill between the Castle of Lisbon and Tejo River.

Azores: This area offers a dramatic landscape that is filled with charming villages, beautiful valleys, and colorful flowers.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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