If you’re looking for an affordable European vacation, look no further than the city of Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. As a capital city, Lisbon has much to offer in the way of attractions and natural beauty, and you’ll find that hotel accommodations there are markedly less expensive than in other European capitals. You’ll also find that restaurants, taxis, and even chain stores are less expensive in Lisbon than they are in other places. With a little planning, a trip to Lisbon can be a memorable vacation that doesn’t need to break your bank account. Here are a few tips for taking an affordable vacation to this gorgeous city.
- Where to Stay. When you’re looking for lodging, look for for the word pensão, which means boarding house or inn in English. A pensão is likely to be your best bet for an inexpensive stay that will also provide you with a charming, old fashioned boarding house experience. One such place is the Pensão Casa de São Mamede, located on Rua da Escola Politécnica. Visitors to this inn describe it as peaceful and homey, but equivalent to a four star hotel as far as comfort and amenities go. The staff are known for their warmth and friendliness to visitors. Best of all, a single room will run you a very reasonable price, somewhere between 60 and 75 euros a night.
- Where to Eat. For affordable dining, your best bet is to go where the locals go. This also has the advantage of providing you with a more authentic Portuguese dining experience. For a lunch or casual dinner, go to La Brusketta for open-faced sandwiches. You can get an enjoyable and filling meal here for less than 15 euros per person. If you want something closer to a fine dining experience, go to Cantinho das Gáveas on Rua das Gáveas. Here you can get a good Portuguese meal with wine for around $25 per person. Previous visitors to the restaurant recommend the fish dishes, particularly the grilled salmon or tuna. The restaurant’s sangria also comes highly recommended.
- What to Do. Entertainment while visiting Lisbon does not have to be a huge expense. Skip the touristy fado (Portuguese folk music) shows and visit the Centro Cultural de Belem to see the Portuguese Symphony Orchestra play. Shows cost somewhere between 5 and 20 euros. National museums and monuments admit visitors for free on Sundays before 2pm, and even during the rest of the week, they’re inexpensive – usually 5 euros or less. Lisbon is a beautiful city that has lovely mild weather year round, so it’s a great place for someone who likes to walk. For free, you can wander around Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in the city, or stroll to the Castelo de São Jorge, a fascinating medieval castle.
While you’re in Lisbon, be sure to try out the custard filled pastries that the city is known for. These sweet treats will only set you back about $1.10, or .75 euro.
Affordable Travel to Lisbon, Portugal – Escorted Tour Options
Jewels of Spain & Portugal 9 day trip from $100 per day including hotels, breakfast daily, transportation, tour guide and some sightseeing. Cosmos budget tours are one of the best travel companies offering affordable vacations in Europe. Other popular Portugal tours include the 10 day Classic Portugal and Sunny Portugal.
Have you visited Lisbon on a budget? Share your best tips with our readers.
