Lisbon's Budget-Friendly Adventure

Experience the charm of Lisbon on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

A trip to Lisbon on a limited budget will be a fascinating cultural experience for any traveller. You can wander through the picturesque streets, savour traditional local cuisine and enjoy the beautiful architecture, all at affordable prices. Don't forget to take a stroll around the historic Alfama district, famous for its intricate tiles and fado music.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Taste of Lisbon on a Budget

  • Start your day with a walk along the Ribeira das Naus, a riverside promenade offering stunning views of the Tagus River and Lisbon's colorful buildings.
  • Take the iconic Tram 28 to Alfama, one of the most charming and historic neighborhoods in Lisbon. Stroll through its narrow streets, lined with traditional houses and lively restaurants.
  • Time for a mid-morning snack! Head to a local pastelaria and try the famous pastel de nata, a delicious egg tart pastry that's a Portuguese specialty.
  • From Alfama, make your way to Miradouro da Graça, a panoramic viewpoint offering a breathtaking view of Lisbon's rooftops and the castle. It's a bit of a climb, but the view is worth it!
  • For lunch, check out Mercado da Ribeira, a food market in the city center with dozens of affordable options, from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers.
  • End the day with a sunset stroll along Avenida Ribeira das Naus, watching the sun dip below the horizon and admiring the lights of the city as they come to life.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lisbon, Portugal by plane is to fly into Lisbon Portela Airport, which has nonstop flights from several major cities around the world.

Car

If you're driving to Lisbon, you can take the A1 highway from Porto to Lisbon or the A2 highway from the Algarve. Once you reach Lisbon, you'll need to navigate the city's roads and find parking, which can be a bit tricky in some areas.

Train

While there are train options to Lisbon, they tend to be slower and less convenient than other modes of transport. However, if you're traveling from within Portugal, you can take a train to Lisbon Oriente station or Lisbon Santa Apolonia station.

Boat

While it's not the most common way to reach Lisbon, you can take a boat to Lisbon via the Tejo River. The city has several marinas where you can dock, including the Lisbon Marina and the Alcantara-Marina.

Bus

Taking a bus to Lisbon is a great way to reach the city on a budget. Several bus companies operate in the area, and you can take a bus from major cities throughout Portugal and neighboring countries. The main bus station in Lisbon is Sete Rios Bus Station.

More travel plans

The Ultimate Lisbon Adventure: 4 Days of Fun and Exploration

A family-friendly trip to Lisbon, Portugal offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, followed by a visit to the lively neighborhoods of Alfama and Baixa. Take a tram ride, visit the Oceanarium, or enjoy a picnic at the scenic Parque das Nações to create unforgettable memories with your family.

3 Days of Fun in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city filled with history, culture and stunning scenery. As a tourist, explore the narrow cobbled streets of Alfama, take a ride on the iconic yellow tram and marvel at the magnificent architecture in Belem. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine and the famous port wine while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.

Experience Lisbon's Charm in a Day

As a tourist, a trip to Lisbon, Portugal would include wandering through charming, historic neighborhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, taking in the vibrant street art and stunning views from Miradouros, and indulging in local cuisine such as fresh seafood, custard tarts, and port wine. A visit to iconic landmarks such as the medieval São Jorge Castle, the ornate Jerónimos Monastery, and the colorful Pena Palace in nearby Sintra would also top the itinerary.

Two Days of Lisbon Bliss: Family Fun on a Budget!

A family-friendly trip to Lisbon, Portugal offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Start by exploring the picturesque neighborhoods of Alfama and Baixa, where kids can enjoy tram rides and marketplace visits. Don't miss the famous Lisbon Oceanarium, a must-visit attraction featuring fascinating marine life, and wrap up your day with a relaxing picnic by the riverside while savoring delicious local pastries like pastel de nata.