13 Cheap Getaways in Portugal So Good You’ll Think They’re Priceless
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The best cheap getaways in Portugal allow travelers to experience the country’s magnificent architecture, rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine without spending a fortune.
Portugal is generally one of the more affordable tourist destinations in Europe, so finding somewhere more affordable to stay is relatively easy.
The hardest part is deciding where to visit first, as Portugal is home to many incredible places. Luckily, we’re here to help.
Below, you’ll find 12 places in Portugal perfect for an affordable getaway. The places on our list are selected because they offer a low average daily travel cost and many things to see and do.
Porto
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Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, Porto is also one of the best inexpensive getaways in Portugal, with an average daily travel cost of only $138. You can get even lower prices if you travel off-season.
By Europe’s standard, that’s pretty impressive. For example, the average daily travel cost in Paris, the French capital, is $286.
Porto is a fascinating coastal city in northwest Portugal loved for its vibrant architecture, serene natural scenery, picture-perfect viewpoints, and historical landmarks. It’s particularly popular with history buffs, romantic couples, and families.
When not sampling Portugal’s best wines, walk along the promenade, explore the Ribeira district, and visit the most iconic sights in the historic center. Don’t miss Porto Cathedral, Dom Luís I Bridge, Miradouro da Vitória, and Palácio de Bolsa. Also, add a day trip to Douro Valley to your itinerary, where you can sample the famous Port wine in cellars.
Read more: Unmissable Things to Experience in Porto
Sintra
If you want to step into your favorite fairytale storybook, admire impressive landscapes, and explore historic castles, Sintra is the best getaway in Portugal for you, and it’s also known for its affordability. Only 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, this remarkable town is home to many mesmerizing buildings that will blow you away.
The most significant draw is the vibrant National Palace of Pena. An awe-inspiring sight, the multi-colored Pena Palace wouldn’t look out of place in a Disney movie. Better yet, the Romancist Castle offers unparalleled views of the Sintra Mountains.
Other must-see landmarks include the Moorish Castle, Sintra Old Town, and Quinta da Regaleira. Meanwhile, the average daily travel cost in Sintra is $126. Portugal offers some of the lowest prices in Southern Europe.
Read also: Affordable Cities to Explore in Portugal
Lisbon
Admittedly, it’s unusual to see a capital city on a list of cheap getaways in Europe because capitals are generally not known for their low prices. However, Portugal’s capital is much more affordable than other major European capital cities.
For context, Lisbon’s average daily travel cost is $143, which is exactly half of that in Paris. You will easily find cheap Portugal vacation packages with flights, airport shuttle, hotels, and discounts for Lisbon.
Lisbon is a beautiful city on the Iberian Peninsula. It’s best known for its welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking architecture, fascinating culture, and rich history, making it a big hit with curious travelers.
The perfect long weekend destination, you’ll likely spend most of your time in the capital exploring iconic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Make sure you visit São Jorge Castle, Belem Tower, Praça do Comércio, and Jeronimos Monastery.
Rea more: Top Experiences in Lisbon
Coimbra
The average daily travel cost in Coimbra is $113, making it one of Portugal’s cheapest city breaks. Coimbra is a stunning riverbank city in Central Portugal famed for its medieval Old Town and university. We know visiting a university on holiday sounds boring, but this one is well worth visiting.
Founded in 1209, the University of Coimbra is one of the world’s oldest universities. You’ll spend most of your time in Coimbra getting lost down the winding cobblestone streets of the charming Old Town.
You’ll find the lively Mercado Municipal within the Old Town. Other noteworthy points of interest in the city include Torre de Anto, the National Museum Machado de Castro, and Porta e Torre de Almedina.
Read also: Portugal’s Charming Medieval Towns
Ericeira
If you want to escape the city and enjoy Portugal’s famous coastline, head to Ericeira, one of Portugal’s best hidden gem cheap destinations. This picturesque west coast fishing town is one of Portugal’s premier surfing spots, making it a firm favorite with surfing enthusiasts. However, you don’t only have to like surfing to visit.
deEriceira is also an excellent place to hike, bike, and skateboard. However, if you’re anything like me, you’ll prefer to sit on Praia do Sul with a beer, watching the world go by.
Two significant points of interest in the town include Ericeira Old Town and Santa Marta Park. You’ll find many quaint cafes, authentic restaurants, and tranquil tree-lined squares in the Old Town. The average daily travel cost in Ericeira is $109.
Read also: Budget-Friendly Small Towns in Portugal
Funchal
In Funchal, the capital city of Portugal’s Madeira archipelago, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy an affordable getaway that features scenic coastal walks, boat trips, and steep hills. Having said that, Funchal has something to offer every kind of traveler, especially those on a budget. The average daily travel cost in Funchal is $127.
In Funchal, you’ll never struggle to find something to see or do. History buffs will fall in love with the 17th-century São Tiago Fortress. Sports fans can explore the CR7 Museum.
Food enthusiasts can get lost in the Farmer’s Market, and wine lovers can sample local wines in one of the many wineries. Of course, you can also easily explore the rest of Madeira from the city.
Read also: Wallet-Friendly Beach Escape in Portugal
Braga
Braga is one of Portugal’s best cheap getaway destinations for visitors seeking a more relaxed city break. Compared to Lisbon and Porto, Braga is much quieter and less crowded. While it may not be as popular as Lisbon and Porto, Braga still has much to offer, especially if you love history.
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This medieval city has many fascinating sights, such as the Braga Tower and the 2nd-century Castle of Braga. It’s also home to iconic landmarks like Arco da Porta Nova, the Roman Thermae of Maximinius, and the 13th-century Braga Cathedral.
Besides the impressive attractions, Braga offers travelers authentic Portuguese restaurants, lively nightlife, and charming river walks. You can enjoy all of this for approximately $120 daily.
Read also: Portugal’s Most Picturesque Fairytale Villages
Lagos
Lagos is the go-to cheap Portuguese destination for warm weather, sunny skies, mesmerizing beaches, and impressive viewpoints. This gorgeous city is along Portugal’s iconic Algarve coastline, offering travelers magnificent Atlantic beaches, dramatic cliffs, and year-round warm weather. Enjoy everything the Algarve region offers in Lagos for less than $130 daily.
Regarding things to do, you won’t struggle for options. Beachgoers can sunbathe on Praia do Camilo. Hikers can walk to Ponta de Piedade. Food lovers can sample local dishes at Mercado Municipal de Lagos, and history buffs can explore historic landmarks like Castelo dos Governadores and Santo António. It might also be worth knowing that Lagos is a popular surfing destination.
Read also: Famous Sites You Can’t Miss in Portugal
Amarante
Lying on the banks of the Tâmega River, Amarante is one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal. It’s best known for its picturesque scenery, well-preserved 17th-century architecture, and charming river walks. Not to mention, Amarante is also one of the most affordable tourist destinations in Portugal. The average daily travel cost is only $125.
You can enjoy a relaxed vacation bursting at the seams with Portuguese charm in Amarante. Make sure you walk along the Tâmega River, admire the town’s narrow streets and colorful buildings, and visit the most famous landmarks. Don’t miss the São Gonçalo Church, Ponte de São Gonçalo, and Municipal Museum Amadeo de Souza Cardoso.
Read also: Must-See UNESCO Sites Across Portugal
Peniche
Peniche’s average daily travel cost is slightly higher ($133), but it’s still one of the cheapest vacation destinations in Portugal. This traditional fishing port and city in the Oeste region is a fantastic place to experience Portugal’s postcard-perfect coastline and escape the hustle and bustle of the big Portuguese cities.
In Peniche, you can enjoy leisurely walks around the town center, relax on the beach, visit popular tourist attractions, and indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine. Notable points of interest in Peniche include Miradouro da Cruz do Remédios, the 16th-century Port of Peniche, and Cantinho Da Baia. Peniche is also a popular surfing spot, so you might want to pack your surfing gear.
Read also: Bizarre Spots Across Portugal
Sagres
Sagres makes this list of cheap getaways in Portugal because it has an affordable daily travel cost, offers an escape from the more popular and congested Algarve resorts, and has many things to see and do. The average daily travel cost in Sagres is only $115. This small village at the western tip of the Algarve is ideal for a laid-back beach vacation.
However, it’s also an excellent place for outdoor adventure, offering miles of stunning coastal walkways and one of Portugal’s premier surf destinations. When you’re not hiking along the coast or catching the waves, relax on Praia da Mareta and Praia do Tonel, explore Sagres Fortress, and visit Forte da Baleeira. Alternatively, kick back near the sea with a refreshing beer.
Read also: Unmissable Instagram Hotspots in Portugal
Faro
Faro is a fantastic option for an affordable Portuguese escape. Explore the Old Town and wander through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful buildings and the Faro Cathedral.
The town also acts as a gateway to the Algarve with its beautiful beaches and majestic rock formations. Don’t miss landmarks such as the breathtaking Benagil cave. If you are a nature lover, explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park. A rental car is the easiest option for transportation between the long sandy beaches.
Read also: Fun Facts to Learn About Portugal
Aveiro
Aveiro, a beautiful city on the west coast of Portugal, is known for its vibrant medieval architecture, picture-perfect lagoon, charming canals, and classic Portuguese charm.
Its winding canal system and colorful boats have earned it the nickname ‘the Portuguese Venice,’ as it resembles the iconic Italian city. However, unlike Venice, you won’t have to battle the crowds to explore.
Most travelers who visit Aveiro admire the city’s breathtaking buildings, explore the lagoon, and enjoy a break from the daily grind. However, there are also many things to see, including the Museu de Aveiro, the Cathedral of Aveiro, Infante Dom Pedro City Park, and Forum Aveiro. Regarding travel costs, Aveiro’s daily average is $109.
Read also: Must-Visit Stunning Villages in Portugal
