Exploring Portugal on a budget is not only possible but can be an incredibly enriching experience. This guide is packed with tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip while saving money. Whether you’re looking to save on flights, find affordable accommodations, or enjoy free and low-cost activities, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover how to make your dream trip to Portugal a reality.
Best Time to Fly
To save on flights and enjoy pleasant weather, plan your trip for June or September. These months offer a great balance between lower airfare and warm weather, perfect for beach outings and sightseeing. If beaches aren’t a priority, May and October are also good money-saving options. During these months, a light jacket or sweater will be perfect for the mild temperatures. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare different airlines and dates. With patience, you can find round-trip flights to Portugal for CA$500-CA$700 from Toronto Pearson to Lisbon, though prices will vary based on your location.
Looking for more money-saving tips when booking flights? Click here for more information.
Affordable Accommodations
Booking accommodations well in advance can save you money. Hostels are an excellent option, with well-rated ones in Lisbon averaging €25 to €45 per night per person and in Porto around €20 to €35 per night per person. Female-only hostels are also available. Students can get an 8% discount on Hostelworld by registering through Student Beans.
Prefer more privacy? Airbnbs and hotels in major cities range from CA$100-200 per night, increasing to CA$200-300 during peak season. That being said, Airbnb and Hotels usually accommodate more than one person meaning you can split the cost.
Another great option is housesitting, which provides free accommodation in exchange for looking after pets or plants. Check out websites like Trusted Housesitters for opportunities.
Public Transportation
In Lisbon, day passes for buses, trams, and the metro are available for €6.80. Single metro journeys cost €1.80, and trams are €3, requiring exact change. More details on Lisbon’s metro can be found here.
In Porto, single metro tickets are €1.20, and bus rides are €1.85. Learn more about Porto’s metro here.
For ridesharing, download Uber and Bolt to compare prices. They are especially useful for late-night rides, with typical fares for a 20-minute ride being under €10. From my apartment to Belém Tower, about a 40-minute drive, is around €18 to €23. These ridesharing apps are great if you’re traveling in duos or trios as you can split the fare, and possibly save more than going on transit. Make sure to check all of your options when traveling to see where you can save.
Looking to train to different cities? Make sure to take advantage of the promo cost when booking in advance. It can save you up to 40%. Learn more about booking train tickets here.
Budget-Friendly Dining
In Portugal, soda, beer, juice, and water typically cost around €1 to €2. For wine, opt for the house wine as it’s more affordable. Look for Pratos do Dia (daily specials) at restaurants, it is usually priced around €12, including a main meal, drink, dessert, and coffee.
For breakfast or a snack, visit a Café or Pastelaria for pastries and coffee under €5. Alternatively, try a prego or bifana, both priced under €5. With careful planning, you can spend as little as €25 a day on food.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
- Walking Tours: Many free walking tours in Lisbon cover major sights. While these tours are free, it’s customary to tip the guides.
- Beaches: Enjoy Portugal’s beautiful beaches without spending a dime.
- Hiking: Explore Portugal’s scenic mountains and coastlines. Bring water and proper footwear.
- Architecture: Marvel at Portugal’s stunning medieval buildings and churches. Most are free to view from the outside, and many offer student discounts for tours.
- Flea Markets: Visit markets like Feira da Ladra in Lisbon, open every Saturday and Tuesday. Browse through vintage items, books, pottery, and more.
- Free Museums: Visit museums like the Lisbon Money Museum, the National Museum of Natural History and Science, and the Port Wine Museum on weekends.
- Historic Belem: Enjoy the historic district and architecture of Belem for free, even if you skip the paid attractions like the Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower.
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia: Visit this spot for panoramic views of Lisbon.
- Fado Performances: Enjoy free Fado music at places like Tasca do Chico. Arrive early for a seat and order some food (cash only).
- Livraria Lello: Entry to this famous bookstore costs €8, which can be deducted from any book purchase. Opt for the €15 “Gold” ticket to skip the line and apply the amount toward any book. More info here.
With these tips, you’re all set to explore Portugal on a budget. What other free or cheap activities do you enjoy when visiting Portugal? Share your tips in the comments below!
Happy travels!✈️🇵🇹
Vanessa
This guide is fantastic for budget travelers in Portugal! I’m currently applying for my Portugal visa and would love to hear if you have any tips or recommendations.