Beat the Budget and Discover the Best of Portugal

A holiday in Portugaldoesn’t need to break the bank. In fact, if you’re looking to enjoy a budget-busting break where your pounds manage to go that little bit further, this is the ideal country to visit. There are plenty of opportunities to save money whilst still diving into the rich cultural heritage, history and culinary delights.

You can save on your accommodation by booking any one of the many world-renowned hostels, make the most of your meals by enjoying some inexpensive yet delicious food and pay nothing but a visit to Portugal’s many beautiful (and free) beaches!

The Azores

These islands are ideal for anyone looking to go off the beaten track during a holiday in Portugal. Located far from the mainland, the Azores are ideal for taking a long hike, drinking in some wonderful natural beauty or heading out to do some surfing.

Set in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, this dream escape into the great outdoors will be extremely kind to your wallet. It’ll cost you nothing to enjoy the breath-taking coastal views, or hike to the Lagoa do Fogo, which is situated inside a volcanic lagoon – the perfect place to take a dip after a day’s walking!

Sintra

Head to Sintra, and hire yourself a rickshaw for the day. This is an expense which will undoubtedly prove its worth, as its the perfect way to take in the sights of the Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors and the Monserrat Palace. They are all simply unmissable.

The area’s colossal castles and magnificent mansions combine to create what may well be the finest collection of architecture you encounter on your holiday in Portugal. And that’s not all – Sintra is a great spot for hiking too.

Lagos

Lagos offers a vibrant and exciting culture for visitors to delve into. With its excellent food, its charmingly rustic identity and the stunning countryside surrounding the city, it should be right towards the top of your list for places to visit during your holiday in Portugal.

Lagos is the ideal place to take in an incredible sunset whilst unwinding with a quiet drink after a day’s sightseeing.

Lisbon

A favourite of the European solo traveller, Lisbon is a wonderful city to explore on the cheap. Avoid the tourist-heavy buses and seek out the tram, which will take you on an authentic tour of the city’s finest sightseeing spots, which include the Belém Tower and the Santa Justa Lift.

Lisbon’s squares, streets and open spaces are a thriving hub of art, culture and creativity. It’s here that you’ll really start to take in the authentic Portuguese experience. The food is great too – and inexpensive!

How to Get There

Reaching Faro or Porto airport from the UK is budget-friendly, with cheap flights departing from airports across the country, and plenty of deals available when you book well in advance. Your flight should take no longer than two and a half hours, so you’ll be beginning your holiday in Portugal in no time. 

Many travellers find it much more convenient to pre-book a private shuttle transfer directly to their accommodation from the airport. This will not only give you peace of mind that you’re being taken right to your front door, but will also be a cost-effective way for you to reach your final destination without any hassle.

Author Plate

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers all over Europe and northern Africa. If you're heading off on a relaxing holiday in Portugal, pre-book a direct transfer to your hotel or accommodation. Lukas and his colleagues can make sure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport swiftly and safetly.