Have you ever dreamed of exploring Portugal — from Lisbon’s old trams to the golden vineyards of the Douro Valley — without spending a fortune? The good news is, you can. Portugal is one of Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations, and with smart planning, you can travel comfortably on around €50 a day — accommodation, meals, and transport included.
This budget itinerary for Portugal (7 days) is made for travelers who love local charm, simple pleasures, and authentic experiences. It focuses on small towns, scenic train routes, and affordable local food, rather than expensive tourist traps. You’ll wander Lisbon’s cobbled lanes, see castles in Sintra, taste wine in the Douro, and relax by the Algarve coast — all without breaking your wallet.
Throughout this guide, you’ll find insider tips from locals, transport tricks to save money, and free or low-cost activities in every stop. By the end, you’ll see how easy it is to explore Portugal’s heart and soul while keeping your budget in check.
Why Budget Travel Works in Portugal
Portugal has a special charm that doesn’t rely on luxury. The country’s greatest pleasures are naturally affordable — sipping coffee in a sunny plaza, exploring cobbled villages, or watching the sunset over the Atlantic. You don’t need to spend big to experience the best of it.
1. Everyday Life Is Inexpensive
Unlike most Western European countries, Portugal still offers great value for money. Local cafés sell espresso (bica) for less than €1, and a hearty lunch menu (prato do dia) with soup, main dish, drink, and dessert often costs just €8–€10. In small towns, guesthouses and family-run hostels are comfortable, clean, and often include breakfast — all for half what you’d pay elsewhere in Europe.
2. Transport Is Affordable and Scenic
Public transport in Portugal is not only budget-friendly but also beautiful. Trains and regional buses connect even the smallest towns, and many routes — like Lisbon to Porto or Porto to the Douro Valley — are famous for their views. You can cross most of the country for under €20, and if you book in advance through Comboios de Portugal (CP), prices can drop to as low as €5.
For short distances, buses like Rede Expressos or carpooling services like BlaBlaCar make it easy to hop between towns at minimal cost.
3. Free Culture Everywhere
Portugal celebrates life outdoors. You can spend entire days wandering markets, beaches, and public gardens — all for free. Most museums offer discount days or free Sundays, and many historic sites (like viewpoints, churches, and village walls) don’t charge entry at all.
4. Local Food Is Honest and Filling
You’ll rarely need fine dining here. Portugal’s home-style food is simple and satisfying — grilled sardines, stews, fresh bread, and olive oil. Sharing small plates (petiscos) lets you sample more flavors without overspending.
5. The Real Portugal Lives in Small Towns
In Lisbon or Porto, prices rise with crowds. But once you reach small towns like Évora, Tavira, or Lamego, everything drops: hotel rates, meal costs, and entry fees. These towns are where authentic Portugal shines — peaceful, traditional, and perfect for travelers who value connection over cost.
In short: Portugal rewards slow, mindful travel. The less you rush and the more you wander off the beaten path, the more you’ll save — and the richer your experience will be.
How to Get Around Affordably in Portugal
Traveling around Portugal doesn’t have to drain your budget. The country’s transport network is well-connected, efficient, and surprisingly scenic — and if you plan wisely, it becomes part of the adventure. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or shared rides, there’s a comfortable and affordable way to explore every corner of the country.
1. Trains: Scenic, Reliable, and Cheap When Booked Early
Portugal’s national railway, Comboios de Portugal (CP), connects all major regions — from Lisbon and Porto to the Douro Valley, Alentejo, and Algarve.
- Regional and InterRegional trains are the most budget-friendly, perfect for short trips between small towns.
- Intercidades (Intercity) and Alfa Pendular trains are faster but still inexpensive compared to other European countries.
Sample fares (when booked early):
- Lisbon → Porto: €10–€15 (standard: €25–€30)
- Porto → Régua (Douro Valley): €7–€9
- Lisbon → Évora: €12–€15
- Faro → Lagos (Algarve): €7
Tips for saving:
- Book 5–8 days in advance on cp.pt to grab early discounts.
- Travel during off-peak hours (mid-morning or mid-week) for lower fares.
- Use the CP app to check live schedules and digital tickets — no need to print.
Trains are comfortable, air-conditioned, and scenic — especially the Linha do Douro, where the track runs alongside the river through terraced vineyards. It’s one of the most beautiful rail routes in Europe and costs less than a lunch in Lisbon.
2. Buses: Reaching Hidden Towns
For smaller destinations not served by trains, buses are your best option. The main companies include Rede Expressos, FlixBus, and EVA Transportes in the south.
Why buses are great:
- They connect remote villages and coastal towns like Aljezur, Tavira, or Odeceixe.
- Prices are often lower than trains, starting from €5–€10 for 100–200 km.
- Buses are clean, safe, and have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and charging ports.
Booking tip: Use platforms like rede-expressos.pt buying online saves time and money.
If you’re following this 7-day itinerary, combining train + short bus rides works perfectly for small towns in the Douro, Alentejo, and Algarve.
3. Carpooling and Ride-Sharing
For flexible travelers, carpooling apps such as BlaBlaCar are very popular in Portugal. Locals heading between cities often share rides, splitting fuel costs. It’s cheap, comfortable, and a great way to meet people.
Example:
- Lisbon → Évora: €8–€10
- Porto → Douro Valley: €9–€12
Most drivers are friendly, and the rides are reviewed, so it’s safe for solo travelers too.
If you prefer to drive yourself, renting a car for a day or two can be worthwhile, especially in areas like the Alentejo countryside or Algarve villages, where public transport is limited. Compact rentals start from €25–€30/day, and if you travel in a pair or group, it can be cheaper than multiple train tickets.
4. Metro, Trams, and Local Passes
In Lisbon and Porto, public transport passes are a money-saver.
- Lisbon: The Viva Viagem card (€0.50) lets you load daily or multi-journey passes. Unlimited metro, tram, and bus travel costs around €6.80/day.
- Porto: The Andante card works similarly, covering metro lines and city buses.
Both cities also have historic trams — like Lisbon’s Tram 28 or Porto’s seaside trams — which double as affordable sightseeing rides (under €4).
5. Walking: The Best Way to Explore Small Towns
Most Portuguese towns are compact and walkable. You’ll save money and notice details you’d miss in a car — tiled walls, street art, bakeries, and friendly locals chatting outside cafés. Bring comfortable shoes, because many streets are cobblestoned and hilly.
6. Smart Money-Saving Tips
- Avoid taxis at airports. Instead, use metro, buses, or Uber/Bolt, which are much cheaper.
- Travel light. Smaller luggage saves costs on budget buses and allows you to walk easily between stations and guesthouses.
- Use free walking apps like Maps.me or Rome2Rio to plan connections offline.
- Ask locals — bus times and hidden routes are sometimes known only by those who live there.
Traveling around Portugal is easy, scenic, and affordable if you plan ahead. With a mix of trains, buses, and walks through cobbled towns, you’ll see more, spend less, and connect deeply with the country’s rhythm.
7-Day Budget Itinerary for Portugal
This 7-day budget itinerary for Portugal focuses on small towns, local flavor, and scenic routes — proving that you don’t need to spend much to experience the country’s best. You’ll move from Lisbon to the Algarve, through palaces, vineyards, medieval towns, and coastal villages — all while staying under €50–€60 per day.
Day 1 – Lisbon’s Hidden Corners
Base: Lisbon
Start your trip in Portugal’s colorful capital, but skip the tourist traps and explore the authentic side of the city.
Morning:
- Begin at Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Wander through its narrow lanes filled with tiled houses, laundry lines, and old locals chatting on doorsteps.
- Climb to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for a free panoramic view of the Tagus River.
- Visit Sé Cathedral (free to enter) or just enjoy the calm around its steps.
Afternoon:
- Ride the iconic Tram 28 (€3 one-way) — it passes through Lisbon’s main districts like Baixa, Graça, and Estrela.
- Stop at Campo de Ourique Market for a cheap and tasty lunch.
Evening:
- Head to LX Factory, a creative hub with art shops and street food stalls — perfect for dinner on a budget.
- Overnight in a hostel or guesthouse in Alfama or Bairro Alto (€20–€25/night).
Daily cost estimate: €45–€50
Day 2 – Sintra & Cascais on a Budget
Base: Lisbon (return at night)
Sintra is like stepping into a fairytale — castles, forests, and palaces everywhere. Luckily, it’s easy to visit on a budget.
Morning:
- Take the train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Sintra (€2.30 each way, 40 min).
- Visit Palácio Nacional de Sintra (€10.00) or explore free attractions like Quinta da Regaleira gardens from the outside.
- Walk to Miradouro da Ferraria for a stunning free view of Sintra’s green hills.
Afternoon:
- Hop on the bus 403 to Cascais (€4–€5, 45 min). Enjoy a scenic ride down the coast.
- Walk the Cascais waterfront promenade — beautiful and free.
- Swim or rest at Praia da Rainha, a charming little beach in the center.
Evening:
- Return to Lisbon by train from Cascais (€2.50).
- Dinner: Try local tascas (small eateries) in the Alfama area — €10–€12 for a meal and drink.
Daily cost estimate: €45
Day 3 – Road to Évora (Alentejo Region)
Base: Évora
Leave Lisbon for the slow rhythm of the countryside. Évora is the capital of the Alentejo, a UNESCO-listed town of white houses, olive trees, and history.
Morning:
- Take the train or bus from Lisbon to Évora (€12–€15, 1.5–2 hrs).
- Check in to a guesthouse (€25–€30/night).
- Start with the Roman Temple of Évora (free) and the Cathedral rooftop (€3).
Afternoon:
- Visit the eerie yet fascinating Chapel of Bones (€5), one of Évora’s most unique landmarks.
- Picnic lunch in Jardim Público with bakery sandwiches (€3–€4).
- Wander the narrow alleys and local ceramic shops.
Evening:
- Dinner at Taberna Típica Quarta-Feira, known for authentic Alentejo dishes at fair prices (€12–€15).
Daily cost estimate: €50
Day 4 – Douro Valley Small Towns
Base: Peso da Régua or Pinhão
It’s time for vineyard scenery and riverside calm.
Morning:
- Train from Évora → Lisbon → Régua (total ~€25, 4 hrs) — long but scenic.
- Drop your bags at a small inn in Régua (€25–€30/night).
Afternoon:
- Take the Linha do Douro train to Pinhão (€4–€5).
- Visit the tile-covered Pinhão Station, then walk down to the riverside.
- Enjoy a 1-hour rabelo boat cruise (€10–€15).
Evening:
- Dinner at Veladouro — home-cooked Douro dishes and local wine for about €12.
- Optional Port tasting at Quinta do Seixo (€10).
Daily cost estimate: €55
Day 5 – Porto by Tram & Market
Base: Porto
Travel from the vineyards to Portugal’s northern capital, Porto — full of bridges, tiled buildings, and soulful charm.
Morning:
- Train from Régua to Porto (2 hrs, €9).
- Walk the Ribeira district and cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for free city views.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão, where you can eat like locals for under €10.
- Visit Livraria Lello (€8, ticket valid as a book discount) and São Bento Station, known for its stunning azulejos.
Evening:
- Ride the historic tram line 1 (€3.50) along the river to Foz do Douro.
- Eat dinner at a seaside café and enjoy the sunset.
Daily cost estimate: €50
Day 6 – Algarve Villages Loop
Base: Lagos
Take an early train or FlixBus from Porto to Lagos (€20–€25, ~5.5 hrs). Despite the distance, it’s worth it for the sun, cliffs, and calm beaches.
Morning:
- Check into a hostel or guesthouse near the old town (€25–€30/night).
- Rent a bike or scooter for the day (€10–€15).
Afternoon:
- Ride to Praia da Luz, Burgau, and Salema — small seaside villages that remain peaceful even in summer.
- Picnic lunch on the cliffs with a baguette, cheese, and fruit from a local market.
Evening:
- Return to Lagos for dinner at Casinha do Petisco, known for budget seafood and friendly locals.
Daily cost estimate: €55
Day 7 – Farewell in Faro
Base: Faro (or flight home)
Round off your trip in Faro, the Algarve’s quiet capital — often overlooked but full of surprises.
Morning:
- Train from Lagos to Faro (€10–€12, 2 hrs).
- Explore Faro’s Old Town (Cidade Velha), its stone gates, and the cathedral rooftop (€3).
Afternoon:
- Take the local ferry to Ilha Deserta or Ilha do Farol (€5–€10) — peaceful islands with untouched beaches.
- Lunch at a beach shack for under €10.
Evening:
- Return to town, stroll through Marina de Faro, and toast your final night with a glass of local wine (€3).
Daily cost estimate: €50
Daily Budget Breakdown
Here’s how your 7-day budget itinerary for Portugal can stay within the range of €45–€60 per day without cutting out any real experiences. Every euro spent here goes toward good food, scenic transport, and local stays — the kind of travel that feels rich, even when it’s affordable.
Average Daily Costs
| Category | Daily Estimate (€) | Notes & Savings Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €20–€30 | Guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels. Prices include breakfast in many small towns. |
| Meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner) | €15–€20 | Choose prato do dia (daily lunch menus), picnic lunches, and bakery dinners. |
| Transport | €5–€15 | Mix of trains, buses, and carpooling. Book early online for discounted fares. |
| Activities / Entry Fees | €5–€10 | Many attractions are free; only a few charge small entry fees (e.g., palaces, chapels). |
| Extras (Snacks, Souvenirs, Coffee) | €3–€5 | Portugal’s café culture is inexpensive; coffee is under €1 almost everywhere. |
| Total Daily Estimate | €45–€55 | Comfortable travel with all essentials covered. |
Accommodation Strategy
- Book early: Guesthouses and hostels on Booking.com or Hostelworld often have “late deals,” but smaller towns sell out during summer.
- Stay central: Saves time and money on local transport. Most small towns are walkable.
- Opt for shared rooms or small doubles: Hostels in Portugal are clean, quiet, and often more boutique-style than you’d expect.
Food on a Budget
- Breakfast: Often included in accommodation. If not, coffee and a pastry cost €2–€3.
- Lunch: Try menu do dia at local restaurants — soup, main, drink, dessert, and coffee for €8–€10.
- Dinner: Choose casual taverns (tascas) with shared dishes (petiscos) and local wine for €10–€12.
- Markets: Buy fruit, bread, and cheese for snacks or picnics — affordable and authentic.
Transport Budget Tips
- Trains: Book on cp.pt 5–8 days early for up to 50% off.
- Buses: Compare FlixBus and Rede Expressos; sometimes €1–€2 flash deals pop up.
- Metro & City Passes: In Lisbon and Porto, 24-hour passes (~€6.80) give unlimited travel across metro, buses, and trams.
- Walk when possible: Most Portuguese towns are compact — you’ll save money and enjoy more.
Attractions & Experiences
- Portugal offers free access to many viewpoints (miradouros), beaches, gardens, and churches.
- Visit museums on free days (often Sundays before 2 PM).
- Splurge selectively — like a rabelo boat ride in Pinhão (€10–€15) or a castle visit in Sintra (€10).
Sample 7-Day Cost Summary
| Day | Destination | Daily Total (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Lisbon | €50 | Tram ride, local lunch, guesthouse |
| Day 2 | Sintra & Cascais | €45 | Train + bus + budget meal |
| Day 3 | Évora | €50 | Entry fees + local dinner |
| Day 4 | Douro Valley | €55 | Scenic train, wine tasting |
| Day 5 | Porto | €50 | Tram, market lunch, hostel |
| Day 6 | Algarve Villages | €55 | Bike rental + seafood dinner |
| Day 7 | Faro | €50 | Ferry to island + beach day |
| Total (7 Days) | ≈ €355–€365 total | or about €50/day average |
Accommodation Tips: Affordable, Comfortable & Authentic
Finding the right place to stay is one of the biggest keys to keeping your Portugal trip within budget — without sacrificing comfort or charm. The good news is that Portugal excels at budget accommodation. Guesthouses feel like family homes, hostels are modern and friendly, and many small-town stays include breakfast and personal touches you won’t find in big hotels.
Here’s how to rest well, stay local, and spend less during your 7-day trip.
1. Guesthouses (Alojamento Local) — The Local Favorite
Guesthouses, or “Alojamento Local” (AL), are Portugal’s version of cozy B&Bs. They’re often run by families who love sharing local tips — from where to find the best pastries to which viewpoint has no crowds.
Why they’re perfect for budget travelers:
- Prices range from €25–€40 per night for private rooms.
- Most include breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and sometimes shared kitchens.
- Locations are usually in the historic centers of small towns.
Where to find them:
- Booking.com (look for “Alojamento Local”)
- Airbnb (filter by “private room” or “entire guest suite”)
Example stays:
- Casa do Rio in Pinhão – €30, with river views.
- Domus 26 Guesthouse in Évora – €35, steps from the cathedral.
- Casa Amarela in Tavira – €28, bright, clean, and walkable to beaches.
2. Hostels — Clean, Social, and Budget-Friendly
Forget the old image of crowded dorms — Portuguese hostels are often boutique-style, with private rooms and relaxed atmospheres. They’re great for solo travelers or couples who want to meet others without losing privacy.
What to expect:
- Shared dorm beds: €15–€20 per night.
- Private double rooms: €25–€35 per night.
- Common kitchens, cozy lounges, and laundry facilities.
Top-rated options:
- Home Lisbon Hostel (Lisbon) – Legendary home-cooked dinners (€10).
- Gallery Hostel (Porto) – Art-inspired, spotless, and central.
- Rising Cock Hostel (Lagos) – Fun but respectful crowd near the beach.
Money-saving tip: Many hostels offer free walking tours or communal dinners — a great way to save money and make friends.
3. Rural Stays and Farmhouses
In the Alentejo and Douro Valley, rural tourism stays (turismo rural) offer countryside calm for less than city prices. You might stay in a vineyard house, olive farm, or stone cottage with homemade breakfast included.
Average price: €35–€50 for private rooms.
What you get: Local wine, traditional food, and peace — priceless after a long day of travel.
Example:
- Quinta da Mata (near Régua) – €40, family-run vineyard B&B.
- Monte da Oliveirinha (Évora area) – €38, rustic comfort among olive groves.
4. City Hacks for Budget Accommodation
Lisbon: Stay in Alfama or Mouraria, where guesthouses are cheaper than downtown hotels.
Porto: The Cedofeita neighborhood has affordable hostels near the metro.
Faro: Choose Old Town rooms or guesthouses near the marina — calm, central, and under €35.
General Tips:
- Book early (especially April–October) – budget rooms fill quickly.
- Check Google Maps reviews, not just booking scores — locals often share real insights.
- Look for “breakfast included” — Portuguese breakfast (coffee, bread, fruit, cheese) is simple but filling.
- Avoid tourist traps: Accommodation in central Lisbon or beach resorts doubles in price during summer.
5. Sleep Like a Local, Not a Tourist
Portugal rewards travelers who slow down and stay local. When you stay in small guesthouses or rural homes, you’re not just saving money — you’re supporting families, hearing stories, and tasting real homemade food. These are the experiences that make a budget trip feel richer than a luxury one.
Budget Accommodation Overview in Portugal
| Type of Stay | Average Price/Night (€) | Best For | Included/Perks | Where to Find | Example Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guesthouses (Alojamento Local) | 25 – 40 | Couples & solo travelers wanting local charm | Breakfast, Wi-Fi, central location | Booking.com, Airbnb | Pinhão, Évora, Tavira |
| Hostels | 15 – 30 (shared or private) | Backpackers & social travelers | Kitchens, lockers, tours, laundry | Hostelworld, Booking.com | Lisbon, Porto, Lagos |
| Rural Stays / Farmhouses | 35 – 50 | Nature lovers, slow travelers | Homemade breakfast, vineyard/olive-farm setting | Booking.com (“turismo rural”) | Régua, Alentejo villages |
| City Guestrooms / Studios | 25 – 35 | Budget city explorers | Private bath, fridge, Wi-Fi | Airbnb, Google Maps | Lisbon (Alfama), Porto (Cedofeita), Faro (Old Town) |
| Seasonal Deals / Shared Rooms | 15 – 25 | Students or short stays | Kitchen access, social events | Hostel apps, Facebook groups | Nationwide, especially off-season |
FAQs – Budget Itinerary for Portugal
1. How much should I budget for a 7-day trip to Portugal?
You can comfortably travel Portugal on €45–€60 per day, including accommodation, meals, and transport. That’s about €350–€400 total for a full week.
2. Is Portugal cheap compared to Spain or Italy?
Yes — Portugal is one of Western Europe’s most affordable destinations. Coffee costs under €1, local meals €8–€10, and hostels start around €15 per night.
3. Do I need to book trains and buses in advance?
For long routes (Lisbon–Porto, Porto–Faro), book 5–8 days ahead at cp.pt or rede-expressos.pt to get discounts. For local routes, you can often buy tickets on the day.
4. Can I use my credit card everywhere in Portugal?
Most places accept cards, but carry some cash for cafés, markets, and small-town restaurants. ATMs (called Multibanco) are widely available.
5. What’s the best SIM card for travelers?
The top budget options are MEO, Vodafone, and NOS. You can buy prepaid SIMs with data for €10–€15 at airports or convenience stores.
6. Is tipping expected in Portugal?
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. Leave 5–10% in restaurants if service was good, or round up taxi fares to the nearest euro.
7. How can I eat well on a budget in Portugal?
Look for local taverns (tascas) or bakeries serving daily menus (menu do dia) for €8–€10. Markets and small grocery shops are great for picnics.
8. Is Portugal safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Portugal consistently ranks among Europe’s safest countries. Common sense applies — avoid deserted streets at night, and keep an eye on belongings in tourist areas.
Also Read: Hidden Villages in the Algarve: 9 Peaceful Towns Near Lagos & Sagres
Conclusion
Portugal proves that unforgettable travel doesn’t need a luxury budget. With smart planning, curiosity, and a sense of adventure, you can explore cobbled towns, sip Douro wine, and relax by the sea — all for the price of a daily coffee and dinner back home.
This budget itinerary for Portugal (7 days) gives you more than just a plan — it gives you freedom. Freedom to wander Lisbon’s hidden alleys, ride slow trains through golden vineyards, and share homemade bread with locals in quiet villages. The best part? Every moment feels rich, even when your wallet doesn’t.
At SimpleTravelPath.com, we believe that the most authentic journeys come from slowing down and connecting deeply with a place — not rushing through it. Portugal rewards that kind of travel with kindness, beauty, and incredible value.
So pack light, travel slow, and spend your euros on experiences that stay in your heart long after the trip ends. Portugal is ready to surprise you — one charming town, one friendly smile, and one budget-friendly adventure at a time.
