Traveling To Portugal: Affordable Or Pricey?

Portugal is considered one of the least expensive destinations in Western Europe, with an average cost of €62-155 (approximately $68-170 USD) per person per day. This makes it a very accessible country for travellers, especially those on a budget.

The cost of a trip to Portugal depends on a variety of factors, including the type of accommodation, transportation, food, sightseeing and entertainment chosen.

Accommodation prices vary depending on location and season, with hostels costing around €15-20 per night and mid-range hotels in Lisbon costing around €70 per night for a double room.

Transportation costs are relatively low, with a day pass for the metro in Lisbon or Porto costing around €6-7.50. Taxi and rideshare services are also available, with costs comparable to each other. Car rentals start at €13-20 per day, but keep in mind that parking fees in cities like Lisbon can be steep.

Food and drinks are also reasonably priced, with restaurant meals ranging from €2.50-20 and beers or glasses of wine as low as €1.

Sightseeing and activities can be found to suit any budget, with smaller museums and castles often being free, and larger attractions costing between €5-10 on average.

Overall, Portugal is a budget-friendly destination, offering a range of options for travellers of all preferences and budgets.

Food and drink

Portugal is known for its outstanding food and drink, with the country's cuisine being one of the main draws for visitors.

The average daily cost of food in Portugal is around $73 (€67) per person, with previous travellers 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.

A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost around €30-35. A 'menu of the day' or set lunch can be a great way to save money, with multiple courses and a drink costing €10 or less.

For an even cheaper option, head to a local bakery where you can buy pastries and coffee for a few euros. Fast-food meal deals can be found for about €5-6.

If you want to sample some traditional Portuguese dishes, you can try the famous 'pasteis de nata' (Portuguese egg tarts) for between €1 and €1.50 each, or the 'Francesinha' in Porto, a large sandwich filled with meat, covered in cheese and gravy, and served with fries, for around €10.

For drinks, beer or wine can be purchased for as little as €1 at restaurants, with higher-end wines costing up to €5 a glass. Cocktails in clubs are around €6 on average.

Transportation

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.

The cost of transportation for those planning to travel in Portugal is something that is essential to figure out. Much of Lisbon and Porto, for example, can be explored on foot, although knowledge of their public transport networks is always useful. Both have metro systems that, compared to many European cities, are reasonably priced, with a single ticket costing €1.50 in Lisbon. When staying in urban areas, for multiple journeys, and cross-transport use, then it may be worth investing in a travel card.

In Lisbon, the Viagem card can be purchased for 50 cents and then topped up when necessary, bringing the cost of a single journey down. For Porto, it’s the Andante card. This works differently as you pay for unlimited use of the transport network over a given period. For example, for the Andante Tour 1, which lasts 24 hours, you’ll pay €7.

Portugal is about a fifth of the size of its neighbour, Spain, so travelling the length and breadth of the country is unlikely to mean facing horrendously long intercity journeys and subsequent high prices.

A standard-class train ticket from Lisbon to Porto costs just over €25; however, the same journey can be done for under €10 when purchasing a ‘promo ticket’ online and well in advance.

For those considering seeing a large portion of the country by train, it may be worth purchasing a Eurail Portugal Pass. This allows unlimited travel over a set period of days (depending on which pass you purchase) and there is a discount for travellers under 28.

A number of coach/bus companies provide a national service, with prices and times varying according to how quickly you wish to reach your destination. Coach travel can be more expensive than train, particularly compared to the aforementioned promo tickets. A typical journey from Lisbon to Porto costs around €20 on an express coach.

If you’re considering renting a car, be aware that it’s actually a reasonably expensive venture, although prices in the Algarve are considered more competitive. Book online before travelling or with local firms after arrival. All motorways are toll roads, so factor in the cost of using them if you intend to travel the country by car. If you do decide to rent a car while in Portugal, expect to pay around €20 per person per day if splitting the costs between two people. This includes the cost of the daily rental fee along with things like petrol, tolls, and parking.

Hiring a car is perhaps not recommended to get around the likes of Porto and Lisbon, with these places being very walkable and served by cheap public transport.

The average person spends about $29 (€27) on local transportation in Portugal per day. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Portugal is significantly more than public transportation.

Accommodation

Portugal is considered one of the least expensive destinations in Western Europe, with a range of options available for travellers on a budget or those seeking a luxury experience.

Budget Accommodation

For those on a budget, there are hostels and hotels available from as little as €10 per night. A bed in a hostel dormitory will typically cost between €15-20 per person, per night.

Mid-Range Accommodation

For a mid-range option, a double room in a 2-3 star hotel will cost around €70 per night in Lisbon, and may be cheaper in other cities.

Luxury Accommodation

For a more luxurious experience, prices start at about €150 per night in the capital, and €80-100 per night in more rural or less popular areas. Boutique hotels in Lisbon can cost upwards of €200 per night.

Airbnb

Airbnb is also an option, although it is recommended that travellers avoid using this platform in Lisbon and Porto due to the impact on local housing.

Apartments and Villas

Renting an apartment or villa is another option, particularly for families or those seeking a more authentic experience.

Seasonal Variation

It is important to note that accommodation prices will vary depending on the season, with higher prices during the summer months and potential bargains to be found during the off-peak season.

Booking in Advance

It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to secure the best prices and availability.

Additional Tips

Travellers can also consider housesitting, which can provide free accommodation in exchange for taking care of someone's house and pets while they are away. This option may be more suitable for long-term travellers or retirees, as dates are based on the homeowner's schedule.

Activities

Portugal has a lot to offer in terms of activities and attractions, and many of them are quite affordable. Here are some ideas to consider for your trip:

• Walking Tours: Explore the charming neighbourhoods of Lisbon, such as the historic Alfama district, or the picturesque city of Porto by foot. You can join a guided walking tour or create your own self-guided tour. Walking is a great way to discover the beauty of these cities up close and at your own pace.
• River Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the Douro River in Porto or explore the Tagus River in Lisbon. These cruises offer a unique perspective of the cities and are usually quite affordable, with prices starting at around €15 for a 50-minute tour in Porto.
• Port Wine Tasting: Portugal is renowned for its Port wine, and a wine tasting experience is a must-do activity. Visit the cellars and cafes in Porto or explore the Douro Valley, home to many wineries. A basic wine tasting can start at around €20, while a half-day wine tour can cost around €35.
• Beaches: Portugal boasts beautiful beaches along its coastline, such as those in the Algarve region. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports at popular spots like Praia da Rocha in Portimao or the beaches near Lisbon, such as Praia da Figueirinha and Carcavelos Beach.
• Museums and Castles: Discover Portugal's rich history and culture by visiting museums and castles. Entrance fees are generally affordable, with prices ranging from free to around €10-€20. Some notable museums include the National Azulejo Museum in Lisbon and the Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. For castles, visit the Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra or the Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon.
• Food Tours and Culinary Experiences: Indulge in Portugal's delicious cuisine and explore its vibrant food scene. Try the famous Portuguese egg tarts, pastel de nata, or sample the local dishes like bacalhau and frango no churrasco. Join a food tour or cooking class to learn about the local cuisine and discover hidden gems.
• Festivals and Cultural Events: Time your visit to coincide with some of Portugal's vibrant festivals and cultural events. The Santo Antonio Festival in Lisbon, the Festa de São João in Porto, and the Feira de São Mateus in Viseu are just a few examples. These events offer a unique insight into Portuguese traditions and culture.
• Day Trips and Excursions: Consider taking day trips to explore other parts of Portugal. Visit the medieval town of Sintra, home to fairy-tale castles and mansions, or explore the beautiful natural parks like the Alvao Natural Park and Serra da Estrela Natural Park. You can also take a day trip to the Azores for dramatic landscapes and unique cuisine.
• Golfing: Portugal, especially the Algarve region, is known for its excellent golf courses. A round of golf, including equipment rental, can cost between €30 and €90.
• Water Sports: If you're an adventure seeker, try out some water sports activities in the Algarve. Boat tours, jet skiing, scuba diving, wakeboarding, and water sofa riding are just a few options available, with prices ranging from €20 to €100.

Nightlife

Portugal is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a mix of clubs, bars, and dance spots. Here is a detailed overview of the nightlife in some of the popular destinations in Portugal:

Algarve

The Algarve region is famous for its bustling bars and clubs, attracting many visitors throughout the year. Lagos, Albufeira, and Praia da Rocha are the top resorts for partying. The resorts of Quinta do Lagos, Vale do Lobo, and Almancil are known for their upscale nightlife and luxury hotels. From romantic bars to beach clubs and stag-themed party venues, there is something for everyone in the Algarve.

The Algarve is also known for its exciting watersports, with boat tours, jet skiing, scuba diving, wakeboarding, and water-sofa riding. The nightlife in the coastal resorts of the Algarve is at its peak during the summer season, from June to September, when large numbers of tourists visit. Many venues remain open well into the early hours, and live entertainment, such as comedy acts and shows, are often in English.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the country's capital, is a vibrant hub of culture, music, food, and nightlife. The Bairro Alto District is widely known as the city's party district, packed with bars playing a wide range of music, from jazz to live DJs. Bars in Lisbon often stay open until at least 3 am, while clubs may stay open until 6 am during the summer. Some popular clubs in Lisbon include Urban Beach, Lux, and Plateau.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to rooftop bars such as Zé dos Bois and Insólito. Cais do Sodré is another popular area known for its high concentration of disco bars and late-night clubs. Some commercial clubs in this area include Roterdão Club, Rive Rouge, and Titanic Sur Mer.

Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, has become a popular destination for clubbers, offering a bohemian nightlife experience. The epicentre of Porto's nightlife is in the downtown area, with busy bars and clubs during the weekends. For a quieter atmosphere, the Passos Manuel area has more laid-back bars. The Industrial Area is known for its discos and commercial house music, while the historic Ferreira Borges Market is a popular party and concert venue.

Porto also offers a unique wine scene, with many port houses along the Duoro River offering tastings of port and other wines. Galerias de Paris, along with Cândido dos Reis and Conde de Vizela, are the heart of Porto's nightlife, with a mix of bars and clubs. Some popular clubs in Porto include Base, Piano B, and Boîte.

Faro

Faro, the capital of the Algarve region, has a vibrant student-themed nightlife thanks to the large number of students studying at the University of Algarve. The city's bustling party scene is centred around Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior, with young crowds and reasonable drink prices due to the student population.

The Old Town of Faro offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with smoky wine bars, cocktail spots, and jazz bars. Havana Club is a popular cocktail bar, while Manoel's Jazz Club is the place to go for jazz enthusiasts.

Vilamoura

Vilamoura offers a diverse nightlife scene, with trendy bars, cosmopolitan spots, nightclubs, wine bars, and beach clubs. The Marina is the main hub for nightlife in Vilamoura, with exclusive clubs like Bond Club and quirky spots like The Cave. Botequim is another popular bar, known for its laid-back vibe and modern surroundings.

Coimbra

Coimbra is a beautiful university town that offers a more local experience of Portugal's nightlife. The city has a mix of traditional Fado spots and student-centric bars and clubs. Tasca do Chico is a popular spot for Fado performances, while Bar Quebra Costas is a lively bar located between the old town and downtown area. For clubbing, Pinga Amor, TUTTI, and Noites Longas are some of the local favourites.

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