The 12 Most Expensive Destinations in Portugal Where the Price Tag Matches the Glamour

There are so many reasons to love Portugal, from its nice weather, beautiful coastlines, and rich history. However, you cannot overlook that despite having so much to offer, Portugal remains one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, something that makes it even more desirable.

Even so, despite the affordability, some destinations still offer an exclusive luxury experience, and therefore, come with a higher price tag. Whether you are looking to rent, buy an apartment, or visit for just a week, these are the 12 most expensive Portuguese cities, known for offering tourists an exclusive and luxurious experience.

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Lisbon

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is a city where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Known for its iconic trams, historic neighborhoods, and beautiful scenery, this city caters to the affluent traveler seeking a luxurious experience.

Lisbon’s high-end shopping districts, Michelin-starred restaurants, and exclusive nightlife make it a prime destination for those willing to splurge. Some noteworthy landmarks in Lisbon include Belem Tower, Jerominos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle.

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon, among the 5-star accommodation facilities in the city, offers unparalleled service, exquisite rooms, and breathtaking views of Eduardo VII Park and the Tagus River. The hotel’s fitness center, spa offering world-class treatments, and Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine, along with its two swimming pools, make it a top choice for those seeking a luxurious stay.

Porto

Porto is a pricey yet alluring destination. This coastal city, with its rich history in port wine production and iconic bridges, is a cultural gem. Some noteworthy landmarks include São Francisco Church, known for its lavish baroque interior; Luis I Bridge; and the Bolsa Palace. When visiting, you can cruise the Douro River or go on wine tours that combine wine tasting with Fado music performances.

A top luxury pick like PortoBay Flores can cost you about $533 per night if you book a top-floor duplex suite with a living room, separate bedroom, and two bathrooms. The splurge is worth it for its prime location and exceptional amenities.

Sintra

Sintra is a city that is straight from a fairytale. This UNESCO World Heritage town in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains captivates visitors with its whimsical palaces, castles, and opulent estates.

The Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais offers 5-star indulgence in an 18th-century palace with ornamental gardens. It has a golf course where you can tee off and an outdoor pool for that refreshing dip.

Beyond luxurious lodgings, Sintra promises exclusive experiences fit for royalty. Explore the Arabian-inspired Pena Palace or stroll through the mystical grounds of Quinta da Regaleira. With its fairytale ambiance and lavish offerings, Sintra provides an unparalleled taste of Portuguese splendor that everyone should experience at least once.

Quinta do Lago

Nestled in the heart of the Algarve region, Quinta do Lago is a haven for those seeking privacy and tranquility in a luxurious setting. This prestigious resort town is renowned for its exclusive real estate, where multi-million dollar villas sit amidst lush golf courses and scenic lakes.

Moreover, it has a wide range of leisure activities that cater to the elite. From horseback riding along the beach to tennis at the exclusive Campus Sports Complex, there is no shortage of ways to stay active.

The Conrad Algarve offers a sophisticated blend of modern elegance and traditional charm for a short-term stay. Guests enjoy a range of treatments at the Conrad Spa, dine at the award-winning Gusto by Heinz Beck, and relax by the infinity pool with views of the surrounding countryside.

Vilamoura

Vilamoura, located about a 20-minute drive from Quinta do Lago, is another jewel in the Algarve region. Known for its vibrant marina and luxurious lifestyle, this resort town has become a playground for the rich and famous.

The Vilamoura Marina is the largest in Portugal and one of the most prestigious in Europe, accommodating yachts of all sizes and attracting an international crowd. Its lively atmosphere, upscale bars, and stunning setting make it a magnet for those seeking a glamorous lifestyle.

In addition to the marina, Vilamoura has accommodation facilities that allow you to experience luxury. Prepare to be pampered beyond your wildest dreams at the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, a 5-star hotel that redefines indulgence.

This resort boasts opulent suites, a decadent spa, gourmet dining, and impeccable service that caters to every whim.

Comporta

Comporta, a charming coastal village in Portugal’s Alentejo region, epitomizes laid-back luxury. This “secret” beach destination offers miles of pristine white sands dotted with sophisticated boutiques and seafood restaurants. Its unspoiled natural beauty and chic ambiance make it one of the country’s most exclusive getaways.

Book a stay at Sublime Comporta, a luxurious beachfront retreat, for the ultimate indulgence. This posh accommodation facility is in a 17-hectare (42-acre) estate with white dunes and umbrella pines. Each villa on this property has a private pool and terrace. That aside, as a guest, you will have access to multiple restaurants and a spa.

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Estoril

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Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Estoril is a gem for discerning travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity. This upscale resort town exudes sophistication with its grand hotels, world-class golf courses, and pristine beaches.

The Palacio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness can make your luxurious trip in Estoril even much better. For the ultimate luxurious experience, stay in the hotel’s Palácio deluxe suite, featuring an elegant marble bathroom, Molton Brown’s toiletries, and an LCD TV with 100 cable channels. Other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and an 18-hole golf course.

Posh accommodation aside, Estoril is a cultural oasis with a rich history. You can visit Casino Estoril, which inspired Ian Fleming’s “Casino Royale” to interact with the locals and discover their way of life.

Funchal

Funchal is the capital city of the Portuguese island of Madeira, an island destination you need to visit at least once. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, it is easy to see why Funchal comes with a hefty price tag.

As you wander the cobblestone streets lined with colonial mansions, you’ll feel like you’ve entered an era of old-world charm and elegance. Forte de São Tiago, constructed in the 1600s, is perfect for learning a thing or two about the city. There is so much more to do in Funchal. You can take wine-tasting tours, the city’s cable car, or visit the CR7 Museum.

If you want to splurge, book a stay at the Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira. This iconic 5-star hotel has welcomed aristocrats and celebrities for over a century with its timeless grandeur and unparalleled service. During your stay, you cask in the tranquility of the lush subtropical gardens or sip a cocktail by its outdoor pools.

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada has plenty of goodies for travelers looking for a luxurious getaway in Portugal. Besides being the capital of the Azores archipelago, this is a destination blending modern amenities with historic charm.

When visiting, you can soak in the culture at landmarks like the Santuário Do Senhor Santo Cristo Dos Milagres or Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião.

Those looking for a pampered holiday can stay at a 5-star oceanfront retreat like the Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico. This hotel has a heated indoor swimming pool where guests enjoy refreshing dips and offers a buffet breakfast.

To explore the island’s beauty, join whale-spotting tours or experience the thrill of canyoning through pristine mountain streams. End your day with sunset sailboat cruises while savoring local Azorian wines.

Oeiras

Oeiras, located on the western outskirts of Lisbon, is more than just a suburban escape. With its beautiful beaches and beautiful sea views, Oeiras offers the perfect coastal escape near Lisbon. Other than its idyllic coastal ambiance, its prime real estate market amplifies its desirability. High-end properties with expansive ocean views, manicured gardens, and access to elite amenities make the destination a coveted location for the wealthy.

For visitors looking to experience the grandeur of Oeiras, the Hotel Vila Galé Collection Palácio dos Arcos offers a rare opportunity. This 5-star hotel is housed in a restored 15th-century palace. It has rooms with polished wood floors, two swimming pools, and a posh spa, making it an ideal base for exploring the sophistication of Oeiras.

Cascais

This picturesque destination has been a favorite among royalty and the elite since the late 19th century when King Luís I made it his summer residence. Today, Cascais attracts wealthy visitors with its luxurious villas, world-class golf courses, and pristine beaches. The cost of living here is significantly higher than in other parts of Portugal, making it one of the country’s most expensive places to visit and live.

When listing top accommodations in Cascais, the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa stands out as a beacon of sophistication. In addition to its upscale rooms, this hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet and has two outdoor saltwater pools.

Whether sailing in the Atlantic or simply relaxing on the golden sands of Praia da Duquesa, Cascais offers a lifestyle of leisure and luxury.

Loulé

Most Expensive Destinations in Portugal Loulé — © Tim HvW / Adobe Stock

Loulé is the perfect destination for those who seek a combination of tradition, elegance, and exclusivity in Portugal. The city has medieval architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks such as the Castle of Loulé and the Igreja Matriz de São Clemente.

The city’s rich cultural heritage contributes significantly to its appeal and, consequently, its high price point. Loulé’s location within the Algarve’s Golden Triangle also contributes to its high cost of living.

When visiting, choose Ria Park Hotel & Spa for five-star opulence near Loulé. It ranks among the top hotels in Portugal and is renowned for its world-class amenities, including a championship golf course, three swimming pools, and a spa.