Travel Budget for Portimao Visit Portimao on a Budget or Travel in Style

Portimao, Distrito de Faro, Portugal

Portimao is a stunning coastal city known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Portimao and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're enjoying the nightlife, scuba diving with your friends, or relaxing on the beaches.

How much does it cost to travel to Portimao?

You should plan to spend around $194 (€185) per day on your vacation in Portimao. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $82 (€78) on meals
  • $39 (€37) on local transportation
  • $163 (€156) on hotels

A one week trip to Portimao for two people costs, on average, $2,710 (€2,590). 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
    $194
    185
  • One Week Per person
    $1,355
    1,295
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,710
    2,590
  • One Month Per person
    $5,807
    5,550
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,710
    2,590
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,420
    5,180
  • One Month For a couple
    $11,614
    11,100
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 Portimao cost?

A one week trip to Portimao usually costs around $1,355 (€1,295) for one person and $2,710 (€2,590) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Portimao on average costs around $2,710 (€2,590) for one person and $5,420 (€5,180) 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 Portimao will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Portimao on average costs around $5,807 (€5,550) for one person and $11,614 (€11,100) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Portimao expensive to visit?

Portimao is a well-liked coastal city that lures countless visitors with differing travel preferences and spending habits. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

If you're not cautious, Portimao can become costly, but you can save with strategies like spending long days at the beach and looking for discounts and coupons.

On average, budget travelers spend $83 (€80) per day, mid-range travelers spend $191 (€185) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $373 (€361) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Portimao.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Portimao is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Odense or Bergamo.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Portimao Expensive?

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

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

Portimao on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$36
(34)
$81
(78)
$156
(149)
Local Transportation 1 $17
(16)
$39
(37)
$74
(71)
Food 2 $35
(34)
$82
(78)
$165
(158)
Entertainment 1 $19
(18)
$43
(41)
$81
(78)
Alcohol 2 $7-21
(7-20)
$16-47
(15-45)
$30-90
(29-86)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Portimao is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.

Portimao on a Shoestring Budget?

You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $83 daily average that backpackers get away with.

Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.

Thankfully, Portimao features plenty of hostels, such as Aloha Hostel, Alameda Hostel, and My Guesthouse. At hostels like this, you can find economical dorm beds and a great social atmosphere, although amenities might be quite sparse.

Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?

If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Many visitors to Portimao are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $191 per person, per day.

In Portimao, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Morgado Golf & Country Club is a great choice for families, and Hotel da Rocha is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Portimao.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $373 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the coastal city will require a luxury budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Carvoeiro Private Transfer to Faro Airport - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Portimao

In Portimao, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $78, but during peak season they jump to an average of $146. You can find budget options starting at $45 up to luxury rates at $284. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Portimao for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $163 (€156). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $81 (€78) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $81
    78
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $163
    156

Hotels in Portimao

Looking for a hotel in Portimao? 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 Portimao

The average hotel room price in Portimao based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $78 in the low season and $146 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Portimao include:

  • Vale da Ribeira Residences starting at $280
  • Morgado Golf & Country Club starting at $70
  • Hotel da Rocha starting at $59
  • Pestana Alvor Park Hotel Apartamento starting at $43
  • Jupiter Algarve Hotel starting at $42
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Portimao

This family-friendly coastal city makes Portimao a great option for traveling with kids, and you'll want to find a larger place to stay.

This coastal city has a variety of resorts to explore. You might find one that includes meals, or at least breakfast, and many come with onsite dining options.

By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding summer), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Portimao

Unfortunately, Portimao does not have a reliable public transit network. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.

Unfortunately, a vast majority of the coastal city does not lend itself to walking. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (moderate)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $39 (€37) per person, per day, on local transportation in Portimao. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Portimao is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $39
    37

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.

A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Carvoeiro Private Transfer to Faro Airport for $82 details
  • 7 Seven Hanging Valleys Hiking Tour with 4k Photos & Transfer for $37 details
  • Private Transfer from Hotel Carvoeiro to Faro (FAO) Airport for $97 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Portimao
How much does it cost to go to Portimao? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Portimao
The price of renting a car in Portimao will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Portimao

In Portimao, the selection of food is limited and not particularly impressive. It might be a good idea to spend less on meals and more on activities that are more enjoyable. Many resorts have attached restaurants where visitors often find themselves dining. For a slightly more local vibe, you can check out one of the many restaurants around town. Much of the restaurant scene is centered around the Alvor District where you'll find unique options that serve local dishes mixed in with some international choices. The city is most famous for its grilled sardines, which are considered a local specialty.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Portimao can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Portimao is $82 (€78) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $82
    78

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Portimao is around $81 (€78) per person, with previous travelers spending from $35 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 Portimao are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $8 to $24
  • Lunch: $12 to $32
  • Dinner: $24 to $57
  • Coffee: $6
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

The traditional food of Portimao is that typical of the Algarve region, the southernmost area of Portugal. A strip of land which hugs the coast, this region is best known for its seafood dishes. Sardines are particularly famous in Alrgarve, often grilled and served with boiled potatoes and salad. A more traditional way to enjoy the dish is to have the sardine on a slice of local bread which soaks up the oils of the fish. Shellfish are also common and often cooked with whole cloves of garlic, fried in oil and butter. Another method of cooking is the "cataplana" - a clam-shaped pot with a lid, usually made from brass or copper, which is used to slow cook anything from fish or shellfish to meat and served right out of the pot. Local stews are also very popular as is a regional dish called chicken piri piri, where the meat is cooked in a hot and spicy sauce. Most restaurants in Portimao are concentrated on streets along the beachfront south of the city as well as in the downtown area.

Food & Dining Tips

Traveling with children? Look for dining spots that have a children's menu. This can lead to significant savings since those meals are often more budget-friendly. Some restaurants might not list these options, so it's wise to ask your waiter before you decide what to order.

Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.

Enjoy the scenery while saving money by planning a picnic. Find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a lovely park or picturesque spot for your meal.

Pack a water bottle to save on drinks. It's also a way to help protect the environment.

Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Portimao, 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:

  • Algarve Food Tour in Portimão for $105 details
  • Evening 4x4 Tour of Monchique Hills with Dinner for $96 details
  • Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with lunch or dinner at sunset time for $145 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Portimao

It's understandable that travelers choose Portimao, as it is famous for resorts, beaches, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Portimao typically cost an average of $43 (€41) 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.
    $43
    41

Just a thirty minute walk from the city center or a short bus ride, the Praia da Rocha or "Rocky Beach" offers prime beachfront sights and activities for the general area. It is also one of Alrgarve's most popular resort towns with plenty of entertainment, shopping, and dining backing the beach of golden sands and refreshing ocean waters. For those wanting to escape the crowds of the main beach area, there are also small coves and quieter areas protected by sandstone cliffs further along the shore. In the evenings, this part of town also has a thriving nightlife with a number of lively themed clubs, lounge bars, and late night dance clubs.

The main city of Portimao also has its attractions which include more opportunities for shopping and dining as well as the Museu de Portimao, a regional heritage museum in an old cannery which traces the area's sardine fishing and canning traditions. To the west of the city, visitors can also spend a day exploring the Alvor Boardwalk. The wooden structure winds its course from a harbor, past fishermen's huts, through estuarine wetlands, and shallow blue lagoons. A walk along the Alvor will reveal many different habitats for a number of marine birds and other critters native to the region.



Within Portimao are all of the attractions one could ask from a resort town. Along the beach, activities range from sunbathing and swimming to water sports like jet skiing, banana boating, kayaking, and parasailing. In addition to the waterfront, there are also a number of day trips to take to the surrounding towns which offer an interesting peek into the region's culture and history away from the bustle of beachgoers. Many of these towns can be easily reached by bus, while others can be visited by boat cruises offered along the coast.

Sightseeing Tips

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
Scuba diving is a leading activity for adventure seekers in Portimao. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Beaches:
Beaches in PortimaoMany travelers seek the calming shores of Portimao. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Portimao. 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 Kayak Experience In Benagil Cave with 4k Photos for $100 details
  • Stand Up Paddle Sunrise Caves Tour in Lagos - pickup Aljezur area for $67 details
  • Benagil Cave Kayak Self-Guided Tour for $27 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Portimao

Active and entertaining, the nightlife in Portimao is a hit with visitors who love spending time at local bars, clubs, and parties. 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.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $31 (€30) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Portimao per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $31
    30

Nightlife in Portimao

Nightlife Tips

While nightlife is a key part of many trips, scaling back on drinks can help free up some extra cash in your budget.

Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.

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

  • Lagos, Portimão & Carvoeiro: Wine Tasting, Tapas & Music Tour for $58 details
  • Vilamoura, Albufeira & Porches: Wine Tasting, Tapas & Music Tour for $58 details
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates for $74 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Dec 28, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Portimao

  • During summer, the coastal city experiences higher prices and larger crowds. To keep your expenses down and enjoy a calmer visit, consider traveling during the shoulder or low seasons instead.
  • Portimao is large enough that you can often find various price levels for hotels, meals, and activities. Save money by exploring options, booking in advance, and checking out free things to do.
  • Adopting a slower travel pace can lead to significant savings, giving you the chance to appreciate the area's beauty. If your schedule is packed with activities, your expenses can add up quickly. Conversely, slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable experience and less money spent overall.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Visitors come to Portimao primarily for the outstanding scuba diving. However, this can be quite costly, with limited opportunities to save money. Expect dive trips, equipment rentals, and boating excursions to take up a significant part of your budget. Make sure to verify that your travel insurance covers all bases, including accidents and cancellations due to weather.
  • In Portimao, public transport options are quite limited. You might consider renting a car or scheduling some form of transportation in advance, such as a tour. However, be aware that this may impact your budget elsewhere.
Traveling in Portimao
Portimao Portimao, Portugal

The second biggest city in the Alrgarve region of Portugal, Portimao sits on the coast where the Arade River meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is renowned for its fresh fish restaurants and is also a popular destination for beachgoers at the Praia da Rocha to the south of the city.



Neighborhoods & Around

Praia da Rocha not only encompasses the beach but a thriving resort town just inland, between the beach and the greater city of Portimao. This area and downtown Portimao to the north both have plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, lodging, and entertainment. From Portimao there are also bus services to the more traditional town of Silves, making it an easy day trip to see the ancient capital of the Algarve. Another day trip from Portimao is the historic harbor town of Lagos with its beautiful coastline of weathered cliffs, grottos, and sea caves. The town itself has pretty cobbled streets, a number of historic monuments, and a large marina.

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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.