How much money do I need per day in Portugal?

Navigating Portugal on €60 a Day: A Comfortable Budget Breakdown

Portugal, with its sun-drenched beaches, historic cities, and delicious cuisine, is a popular travel destination. But how much should you budget for a comfortable daily experience? While prices can fluctuate based on location and season, a realistic and comfortable daily budget for a solo traveler in Portugal is around €60. This figure allows for a good mix of experiences without excessive splurging.

This €60 daily budget assumes you’re not staying in luxury accommodations. Instead, it focuses on a balance between enjoying Portugal’s offerings and maintaining a reasonable spending plan. Let’s break it down:

Accommodation (€20-€30): This portion of your budget can vary dramatically. Consider staying in hostels (€20-€25 per night) for a budget-friendly option with opportunities to meet fellow travellers. Alternatively, budget-friendly guesthouses or Airbnbs outside the city centre can often be found within this range. Remember to book in advance, especially during peak season.

Food (€20-€25): Portugal boasts fantastic cuisine, and you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy it. Embrace the “pastel de nata” (custard tart) and “pão de queijo” (cheese bread) experiences, but also seek out local markets and smaller “tascas” (traditional restaurants) for affordable and delicious meals. A simple lunch could cost €8-€10, while dinner might range from €12-€15 depending on your choices. Packing some snacks for in-between meals can help keep costs down.

Activities and Transportation (€10-€15): Portugal offers numerous free activities: walking tours of historical centres, exploring beaches, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. Public transportation is generally affordable and reliable, with a single bus or tram ride often costing less than €2. If you plan on using public transport extensively, consider purchasing a day or multi-day pass. Entry fees to museums and other attractions typically fall within the €5-€10 range. Budgeting €10-€15 for this category allows for a mix of free activities and paid experiences.

Cash Considerations: It’s advisable to have smaller denominations of Euros (€1, €2, €5) readily available. Many smaller establishments, especially those frequented by locals, may prefer cash transactions. While credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, having cash on hand offers more flexibility, particularly for smaller purchases and tips. Having a small amount of US dollar bills (€1 and €5 equivalents) can also be useful for tipping, though Euros are always preferred.

Important Note: This budget is a guideline. Your actual spending will depend on your personal preferences and travel style. A luxury trip to Portugal would obviously require a significantly higher daily budget. However, by being mindful of your spending, researching affordable options, and utilizing free activities, you can comfortably experience the beauty and charm of Portugal on approximately €60 per day. Enjoy your trip!