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. This Portugal trip budget calculator will dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip. No matter if you're exploring the energy of Lisbon or eating the delicious cuisine in Porto, this guide can help you plan a memorable trip while keeping your travel costs under control.
How much does it cost to travel to Portugal?
A typical traveler spends $192 (€165) per day on a trip to Portugal. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Portugal based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $78 (€67) on meals
- $31 (€27) on local transportation
- $144 (€123) on hotels
A one-week trip to Portugal for two people costs, on average, $2,688 (€2,310). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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 Sweden or Ireland.
In Portugal, budget travelers spend $79 (€67) per person per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $192 (€165) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $451 (€387) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Portugal.
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.
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
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Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$30
(€26)
|
$72
(€62)
|
$160
(€138)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$12
(€10)
|
$31
(€27)
|
$80
(€69)
|
|
Food2
|
$32
(€28)
|
$78
(€67)
|
$174
(€150)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$10
(€8.61)
|
$25
(€22)
|
$64
(€55)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$4-12
(€3-10)
|
$10-29
(€8-25)
|
$22-66
(€19-57)
|
Coimbra, Portugal
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.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Portugal for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $144 (€123). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $72 (€62) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Portugal? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
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 $21 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 $21 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 $32 for a dorm bed.
Local Transportation Budget in Portugal
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $31 (€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.
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Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$31
€27
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 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.
Food Budget in Portugal
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Portugal can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Portugal is $78 (€67) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$78
€67
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Portugal is around $78 (€67) per person, with previous travelers spending from $32 to $174. 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: $14 to $23
- Lunch: $12 to $39
- Dinner: $27 to $62
- 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.
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.
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:
- Lisbon Getaway: Private Arrábida Wine & Food Tour for $237 details
- Porto Market Tour & Cooking Class - Half Day for $227 details
- Porto: Pastel de Nata Cooking Class with Porto Wine (Lapa) for $41 details
- Portuguese 'Petiscos' Cooking Class for $101 details
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.
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Lunch for Two
€13
-
Coffee
€1.40
-
Coffee
€2.50
-
Pizzaria Lunch (for 2)
€15
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Portugal
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Portugal typically cost an average of $25 (€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.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$25
€22
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.
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 $176 details
- Half Day tour - 3h / Private Classic Car (4L). For $112 details
- Porto 1/2 Day Walking Photo Tour & Portraits for $141 details
- Full Day Madeira Island Tour - Open Roof for $83 details
Nightlife Budget in Portugal
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $19 (€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.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$19
€16
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.
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 $30 details
- Porto 6 Bridge Boat Tour & Wine Tasting Experience for $47 details
- Porto:The most local Boat Tour with Port Wine tasting (1–6people) for $53 details
- Douro Valley amazing wine Tours for $188 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Apr 21, 2026
Traveling in Portugal
Funchal, Portugal
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.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Portugal without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You may have heard that it's possible to visit Portugal for around $79 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.
While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, Portugal has an abundance of hostels, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos. For visitors of all kinds, food is an important aspect of Portugal, but those on a budget often eat street food or whip up meals in their hostels, potentially missing out on the culinary experiences available.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors to Portugal will want to visit Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon, Cais da Ribeira in Porto, or the Arco da Vila in Faro. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $192 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Portugal. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Lagos and Portimao, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Aljezur, Herdade Monte Do Sol is a good kid-friendly option, and in Porto, 1872 River House is also terrific. Couples heading to Manteigas should look into Casa De Sao Lourenco for a cozy and romantic stay. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Portugal here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $451. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Albufeira and Portimao. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Portugal's Old-World Charms featuring Douro Valley, Alentejo & Lisbon - offered by Collette.
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.
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.