9 DAYS IN PORTUGAL FOR UNDER $1,400
Take advantage of the great flight deals to Portugal next April. With air fare coming in around $700 round-trip, you can visit Portugal on a limited budget.
Portugal is one of the more affordable destinations in Europe and has something for every traveler. If you only have a week in Portugal, check out the best 7 Day Portugal Itinerary.
Price per person based on 2 people can be as cheap as $1,400, but to splurge on some nicer hotels the cost comes in around $1,750 per person. See below for recommendations for each budget.
The budget below is based on my recommended itinerary. Pricing will change depending on how you customize your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon
Day 2: Lisbon
Day 3: Lisbon
Day 4: Lisbon
Day 5: Head to Porto
Day 6: Porto
Day 7: Porto
Day 8: Porto
Day 9: Head back to Lisbon and depart
Note: All pricing is accurate at date of post, but is subject to change as hotels/airlines frequently update pricing. Pricing is usually accurate for 24-72 hours, may be longer especially for hotels.
Flight from Chicago to Lisbon
There are a number of affordable flight options to Lisbon in April, one of the best deals is with United and comes in at $693 per person. The dates are departing Chicago April 26th and leaving Lisbon on May 5th.
Hotel Recommendations in Portugal
Lisbon
There are some great options to stay at while visiting Lisbon. For the full list of recommendations at various budgets, see my full list of recommendations here.
Boutique Chiado Suites: Located in the Alfama district, this modern hotel is located just steps away from Praça do Comércio and an easy walk to other main attractions. Urbana FLH Hotel offers a high end feel on a budget. The lobby is trendy and very welcoming. The rooms are very well designed and clean, plus the bathroom is larger than most in this price range.
Cost: From $120/night in April
Memmo Alfama: This modern hotel offers stunning views at a reasonable cost. It is located in Alfama, just steps away from the Cathedral and a short walk to Sao Jorge Castle. The hotel has a gorgeous rooftop terrace and offers free breakfast. The rooms are more modern than other boutique hotels and are spacious as well. This is also one of the few hotels with a pool. The infinity pool is located on the main patio and is small, but it is an amenity most hotels in the historic district do not have.
Cost: From $213/night in April
Porto
Porto is a beautiful town located in the Duoro Valley and is a great destination for those that love wine. Porto has some amazing hotels, and is one of the most affordable cities to visit in Europe. Check out the full list of Best Hotels in Porto, with options to fit every budget.
Castelo Santa Catarina: Although Castelo Santa Catarina is farther from the historic center, it is still within walking distance (most sites are under 20 minutes away). It is well worth the extra walk to stay in this unique hotel. The hotel is far enough away from the hustle bustle of the city center to be lovely and quiet - but close enough for walking to all the major attractions of Porto. The exterior is covered in the beautiful blue tiles Portugal is known for and has a gated excluded courtyard. The hotel also offers a free breakfast, making it one of the cheapest options for any stay in Porto.
Cost: From $95/night in April
Descobertas Boutique Hotel: Descobertas Boutique Hotel, situated in the heart of vibrant Porto, is a true gem for travelers seeking an authentic Portuguese experience. This charming boutique hotel beautifully combines modern luxury with traditional charm, offering elegantly designed rooms that provide a comfortable and stylish retreat. The hotel's friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere. Plus, its prime location means you're within walking distance of Porto's top attractions, lively cafes, and the scenic Douro River.
Cost: From $146/night in April
Getting Around Portugal
Airport Transportation
Once you arrive at the airport the easiest options is to take an Uber or Taxi to the city center. They are relatively cheap (under $20) and are the most convenient way to travel to your hotel.
Getting from Lisbon to the Porto
One of the best ways to get to Porto is by train. There are frequent trains that run between Lisbon and Porto. The ticket price ranges depending on the departure time, but comes in around $80 roundtrip.
Another option is to rent a car. This will give you more flexibility to see the countryside, and Portugal is a relatively easy country to drive in.
Getting Around Lisbon and the Porto
Lisbon and Porto are very walkable cities, although do be aware that there are a lot of hills! Outside of the Belem district in Lisbon and any day trips, you should be able to walk most places.
Total Cost of Transportation: $150 to allow for at least one or two Uber rides
Budget Breakdown - $1,400
For those with a very tight budget, you can do Portugal for $1,400 (this includes flights, hotels and transportation). See below for the budget breakdown:
Roundtrip Air Fare: $703
Lisbon - Boutique Chiado Suites $581 (4 Nights): $291/person
Porto: Castelo Santa Catarina $399(4 Nights): $200/person
Transportation: $150
Total Cost : $1,344
Budget Breakdown - $1,750
For those with more room within their budget, you can stay at some great hotels and still come in under $1,750 (this includes flights, hotels and transportation). See below for the budget breakdown:
Roundtrip Air Fare: $703
Lisbon - Memmo Alfama $924 (4 Nights): $462/person
Porto: Descobertas Boutique Hotel $539 (4 Nights): $240/person
Transportation: $150
Total Cost : $1,705