Portugal
Portugal offers an exquisite mix of pristine sandy beaches, architecturally stunning cities, dramatic coastlines, and a thriving gastronomic culture. Plus, it’s a haven for wine lovers.
Notably, Portugal ranks as one of Europe’s most economical international destinations and enjoys a high safety record. This combination makes it an ideal escape for a broad range of travellers, including solo adventurers, families, and introverts.
Lisbon has evolved into a global magnet for nomads and expatriates, but Portugal’s charm extends far beyond its capital city. Other must-visit regions include the sun-kissed Algarve, the rustic Alentejo, the picturesque Obidos, and the historical Braga, among others!
Best Time To Visit
The most serene periods to explore Portugal typically fall in spring (March through June) or autumn (September until mid-October), when the hordes of tourists are fewer, tariffs are more affordable, and the climate is pleasantly warm. Particularly, autumn is an excellent choice for those keen to savour Portugal’s renowned wines.
During the summer months, Portugal enters its peak tourist season. A bustling atmosphere prevails with crowded streets, packed beaches, and teeming historical landmarks. Local transport often experiences high demand leading to sold out situations, and accommodation costs can surge by approximately 30-40%.
As November rolls in, so does the season of rain, causing many resorts to close their doors for the winter. Visitors during this period can anticipate less crowded spaces but should be prepared for shorter operational hours at major attractions. For those planning a visit around the festive period, Lisbon, with its charming Christmas markets and festive adornments, is a popular choice.
Check out the best time to visit Portugal.
What To Expect
Capital: Lisbon
Language: Portuguese
Currency: The official currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR). $1 USD is equivalent to 1.09 EUR and £1 is 0.82 euro. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: In Portugal, credit cards are widely accepted across numerous shops, eateries, and hotels, particularly in larger, tourist-frequented cities. As with many European destinations, it’s prudent to carry a modest amount of cash. In Portugal, automated teller machines (ATMs) are commonly known as “multibanco” or “caixa automatica.”
These Portuguese ATMs serve a broader purpose than just dispensing cash. They are often used to settle bills, purchase cinema tickets, or conduct bank transfers. You can typically find these machines in various locations including banks, airports, railway stations, and shopping complexes.
Most places also accept Google Pay and Apple Pay.
Plugs: Power plugs are type F, the standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter as they make everything so much easier.
Safety: Portugal is a safe country to visit. Petty crime does exist as in most countries, so don’t carry too much cash and keep an eye on your bags.
Useful tip: Eat local – By eating at restaurants serving traditional cuisine, you’ll keep your food expenses low and the food tastes better most of the time.
Things to consider: 1. Don’t Trust the Crosswalks. Unless you’re trying to cross the street at a spot that’s governed by a traffic light or sign. 2. Pay by contactless or card to avoid paying tips.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Portugal.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Portugal
The Alfama district, with its narrow alleys and ancient buildings, is the historical soul of Lisbon. This area, perched on a hillside overlooking the River Tagus, oozes charm and offers an authentic taste of local life. The sound of Fado music wafting from cosy bars, the scent of grilled sardines, and the sight of laundry hanging from wrought-iron balconies create a unique atmosphere. A visit to São Jorge Castle at the district’s peak provides panoramic views of the city and its terracotta rooftops. A ride on the historic Tram 28 through Alfama’s winding streets is a delightful experience not to be missed.
Porto’s Ribeira District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vibrant tapestry of medieval lanes, colourful houses, and bustling squares. Located along the Douro River, this area teems with life, from its riverside bars to its historic landmarks like the Palácio da Bolsa. Taking a stroll along the Cais da Ribeira offers unparalleled views of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and the terraced port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank. For wine enthusiasts, a visit to one of these cellars for a Port wine tasting is an absolute must.
The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is a sun-soaked paradise known for its golden beaches, limestone caves, and azure waters. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling resorts of Albufeira, the iconic cliffs of Praia da Marinha, or the serene beauty of Praia de Odeceixe, there’s a slice of coast to suit every taste. Beyond the beaches, the Algarve also offers historic towns, world-class golf courses, and a rich culinary scene that celebrates the region’s maritime bounty.
Nestled in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, Sintra is a dreamy town filled with romantic palaces, lush gardens, and ancient castles. The Palácio Nacional de Sintra, with its distinctive twin chimneys, boasts a mix of Moorish and Manueline architecture. However, it’s the vibrant colours of Palácio da Pena, perched high on a hill, that steal the show, often described as a fairytale come to life. The nearby Quinta da Regaleira, with its enchanting gardens, mysterious tunnels, and hidden grottoes, further adds to Sintra’s mystical allure.
Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living testament to Portugal’s rich history, with its roots tracing back to Roman times. The city’s well-preserved centre is a mosaic of architectural styles, from the Roman Temple of Évora to the Gothic splendour of the Cathedral. The eerie Chapel of Bones, adorned with human skeletons, offers a contemplative experience. Beyond its historic sites, Évora delights with its laid-back vibe, cobbled streets, and regional gastronomy, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both culture and relaxation.
Portugal Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – €15–35 / £13–30 / $16–38
- Hostel Private Rooms – €40–70 / £34–60 / $43–75
- Budget Hotels – €50–90 / £43–77 / $54–96
- Airbnb Private Rooms – €35–80 / £30–69 / $38–86
- Airbnb Apartments – €60–150+ / £52–130+ / $65–160+
- Campsites – €10–25 / £9–22 / $11–27
Transportation
- Lisbon Metro/Bus/Tram Ticket – €1.80 / £1.50 / $2
- Porto Metro/Bus Ticket – €1.60–2.50 / £1.35–2.15 / $1.75–2.75
- Intercity Bus (Lisbon to Porto) – €20–40 / £17–34 / $22–44
- Train (Lisbon to Porto, high-speed) – €25–50 / £22–43 / $27–55
- Taxi (per km) – €0.50–1 / £0.40–0.85 / $0.55–1.10
- Car Rental (per day) – €30–60 / £26–52 / $33–66
Food
- Budget Meal – €5–10 / £4–9 / $5–11
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – €15–30 / £13–26 / $16–33
- Coffee (Espresso) – €1–2 / £0.85–1.70 / $1–2.20
- Beer (Super Bock or Sagres) – €2–4 / £1.70–3.40 / $2.20–4.40
- Pastel de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tart) – €1–2 / £0.85–1.70 / $1–2.20
Activities
- Museum Entry – €5–12 / £4.30–10.30 / $5.50–13.20
- Guided Tours – €25–50 / £22–43 / $27–55
- Boat Tours (Lisbon or Algarve) – €30–70 / £26–60 / $33–77
- Wine Tasting (Douro Valley or Porto) – €15–40 / £13–34 / $16–44
- Surf Lessons (Peniche or Ericeira) – €25–50 / £22–43 / $27–55
Portugal Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – €40–60 Per Day / £34–52 / $44–66
A budget-friendly trip allows you to stay in hostel dorms, eat at local pastelarias (bakeries), and use public transportation like metro and buses. You can enjoy free attractions like Lisbon’s Miradouros (viewpoints), hiking in Sintra, and walking through historic neighbourhoods.
- Accommodation: Hostel dorm (€15–30)
- Food: Budget meals, supermarket snacks (€10–15)
- Transport: Public transport (€5–10)
- Activities: Free or low-cost sights (€5–10)
If you plan to drink, add an extra €5–10 per day for alcohol expenses. To save even more, take advantage of free museum days (many museums in Lisbon and Porto have free entry on Sundays).
Midrange – €90–150 Per Day / £77–129 / $99–165
A mid-range budget means staying in a private room at a hostel or a budget hotel. You can enjoy meals at casual restaurants, visit museums, and take a day trip to places like Sintra or the Douro Valley.
- Accommodation: Mid-range hotels or Airbnbs (€50–80)
- Food: Mix of local restaurants and casual dining (€20–40)
- Transport: Public transport and occasional taxis (€10–15)
- Activities: Museum entries, boat tours, and guided experiences (€15–30)
This budget allows for a few splurges—perhaps a fado music night in Lisbon or a wine tasting in Porto.
Upscale – €200+ Per Day / £172+ / $220+
A luxury budget ensures you stay in boutique hotels or 4–5 star accommodations, dine at fine restaurants, and explore Portugal with private guides.
- Accommodation: Boutique hotels (€120+)
- Food: Fine dining and wine (€50–80)
- Transport: Taxis, rental car, or private driver (€30–50)
- Activities: Private tours, premium wine tastings, and cultural experiences (€50+)
This budget covers seamless transportation, whether it’s renting a car for a road trip through the Algarve, a private boat tour in Lisbon, or an exclusive food experience in Porto.
Portugal remains one of Western Europe’s best-value destinations, with great food, culture, and scenic landscapes available at every budget level!
Portugal Money-Saving Tips
Portugal is one of the most affordable destinations in Western Europe, but costs can add up, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Here are some top tips to help you save money while exploring Portugal!
1 – Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Portugal is safe to drink, so skip buying bottled water and bring a reusable bottle instead. Public fountains are available in many cities, helping you stay hydrated for free.
2 – Take Free Walking Tours – Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities offer free walking tours, a great way to explore history and culture with a local guide. Just remember to tip at the end!
3 – Eat at Local Tascas (Traditional Eateries) – Instead of dining at tourist restaurants, look for local tascas, small family-run eateries where authentic Portuguese meals cost a fraction of the price.
4 – Go for the Lunch Specials – Many Portuguese restaurants offer a “prato do dia” (dish of the day) at lunchtime, which includes a main meal, drink, and sometimes dessert for around €8–12.
5 – Use Public Transport – Portugal has an efficient and affordable public transport system. Instead of taxis, use Lisbon’s metro, trams, or buses. In Porto, the Andante card gives unlimited daily rides for a low price.
6 – Skip Taxis, Use Ride-Sharing – If public transport isn’t an option, use Uber or Bolt instead of taxis, as they are often much cheaper and have fixed prices.
7 – Travel by Bus or Train Between Cities – Long-distance buses like Rede Expressos or trains like CP Comboiosoffer affordable intercity travel. Book tickets in advance for the best discounts.
8 – Visit Museums on Free Entry Days – Many museums in Portugal offer free entry on Sundays before 2 PM, including the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga in Lisbon and Museu de Serralves in Porto.
9 – Buy a City Tourist Card – If you plan to visit multiple attractions, invest in a Lisboa Card or Porto Card for discounts on transport, museums, and tours.
10 – Stay in Hostels or Budget Airbnbs – Portugal has high-quality hostels from Hostelworld, especially in Lisbon and Porto, where you can stay for as little as €15–25 per night. Airbnbs in less touristy neighbourhoods can also offer great savings on Booking.com.
11 – Shop at Markets Instead of Supermarkets – Visit local markets like Mercado da Ribeira (Lisbon) or Mercado do Bolhão (Porto) to get fresh produce, cheese, and seafood at local prices.
12 – Rent a Car in a Group – If exploring the Algarve, Douro Valley, or Alentejo, car rentals can be pricey, but splitting the cost with friends makes it an affordable road trip option.
13 – Enjoy Portugal’s Free Natural Beauty – Whether it’s the beaches of the Algarve, hiking in Sintra, or walking through Porto’s Ribeira district, many of Portugal’s best attractions are completely free!
14 – Travel Off-Season – Visit Portugal in the shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November) when flights, accommodations, and tours are much cheaper, and the weather is still warm and pleasant.
How to Get Around in Portugal
Portugal has a well-developed transport system, making it easy to explore its cities, countryside, and beautiful coastline. Whether you’re sticking to Lisbon and Porto or venturing to the Algarve or Douro Valley, here’s a detailed guide on getting around Portugal.
Walking
Portugal’s cities are best explored on foot, especially historic districts like Alfama in Lisbon and Ribeira in Porto, where narrow cobbled streets are common. However, be prepared for steep hills in places like Lisbon and Sintra.
Public Transportation
Metro & Trams – Lisbon and Porto both have efficient metro systems, with fares starting at €1.50 per trip. In Lisbon, the historic Tram 28 is a scenic way to explore the city (€3 per ride or included in a Lisboa Card).
Buses – Every major city has an affordable and reliable bus network. In Lisbon, Carris operates buses, while Porto uses STCP. A single bus ride costs around €2, but you can save money by using a day pass or rechargeable card (Lisboa Viva or Andante Card). Or use BudBud for cheap fares.
Trains – Portugal’s national railway service, Comboios de Portugal (CP), offers fast and affordable intercity trains. Tickets from Lisbon to Porto start at €10–30, depending on the class and booking time. For shorter regional trips, trains are a comfortable alternative to buses.
Airport Transfers
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) – The Aeroporto Metro Line (Red Line) connects the airport to central Lisbon in 20 minutes for €1.50. Aerobus and taxis are also available (€12–15 for a taxi to downtown).
Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) – The Metro Line E connects the airport to Porto’s city center in 30 minutes for €2.60.
Faro Airport (FAO) – There’s no metro, but buses and taxis are available. A bus ticket to Faro city center costs €2.50, while taxis start at €10–15.
Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
Taxis – Available in all cities but expensive compared to public transport. A short 5 km ride costs €6–10, and there’s a surcharge for luggage and night rides.
Ride-Sharing – Uber, Bolt, and Free Now are cheaper alternatives to taxis and operate in major cities and tourist regions.
Buses & Intercity Travel
Portugal has a great bus network, perfect for reaching places where trains don’t go.
- Rede Expressos is the main long-distance bus company, with routes across Portugal. A bus from Lisbon to Porto costs €10–20.
- FlixBus offers low-cost tickets for travel between cities and even international routes to Spain.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a great option for exploring rural areas like Douro Valley, Alentejo, or the Algarve. Prices start at €25–40 per day, but toll roads and high fuel prices can add extra costs.
Driving Tips:
- Portugal has many toll roads, so check if your rental car includes an electronic toll device.
- Parking in Lisbon and Porto is difficult, so avoid driving in city centers.
- Roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously.
Trains vs. Buses – Which is Better?
For long distances, trains are more comfortable and scenic but may be more expensive than buses. If you’re on a budget, buses like Rede Expressos offer cheaper fares with frequent departures.
Cycling
Cycling is popular in Portugal, especially along the Algarve coast and Douro Valley. Many cities have bike-sharing services like Gira in Lisbon (€2 per day) or Buga in Aveiro (free public bikes!).
Ferries
Portugal has several ferry routes, mostly in Lisbon and the Algarve.
- Lisbon ferries cross the Tagus River from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas (€1.50).
- Algarve ferries connect mainland towns to islands like Ilha de Tavira or Ilha Deserta (€3–5).
Best Way to Get Around Portugal?
- Cities: Walk + Metro/Trams
- Intercity: Trains for comfort, buses for budget travel
- Countryside & Beaches: Rent a car
- Short trips: Biking or ferries
Travel Resources
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