6 Day Lisbon Budget: How Much Does A Trip to Lisbon Cost?

How expensive is Lisbon to visit? When I think back to my time spent in Lisbon, I still grin from ear to ear. Not only did I have an unforgettable time exploring Portugal’s capital with new friends, but it didn’t cost me a fortune.

Lisbon was one of the most affordable cities I’ve visited in Western Europe.

Compared to major cities like London and Paris, Lisbon offers incredible value. Although prices have increased in recent years, it’s still a budget-friendly gem if you know how to plan smart.

I’ll break down my actual Lisbon travel costs. Think of this as a real-world example you can use to figure out your own Lisbon travel budget.

Use this article as a guide then adjust based on your unique travel style — whether that’s hostel hopping like me, boutique hotels, or high-end luxury digs.

Before daydreaming about pasta de nata, here’s what you need to know to prepare for Portugal.

1. Currency

What currency to use in Portugal? 

The Euro is the official currency in Portugal.

💡Helpful Tip: In Portugal, the decimal point is replaced with a comma – for example, 3,50 €.

For the best exchange rate, get euros at your local bank (at home).

Skip the currency exchange booths at the airport. Their fees are ridiculous!

If you need more cash, head to an ATM in the city center.

2. Credit Cards

Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in Portugal.

Although I used credit cards extensively in Lisbon, I also recommend carrying cash for smaller purchases.

Lots of small restaurants, kiosks, and taxis still prefer cash.

Always carry some euros just in case.

3. ATMs (Multibanco)

There are plenty of 24-hour ATMs in Portugal. They are called “multibancos.”

For a better exchange rate, pick euros as your preferred currency.

Round-trip Flights from NYC: $369.96 USD

I scored this incredible flight deal to Lisbon through an “error fare.”

Error fares are a great way to travel cheaply and I can wholeheartedly credit my trip to Portugal to this glitch.

Depending on the season, flights to Lisbon generally cost $700 USD-$1,100 USD.

This travel hack reduced up to $730 USD off of my Lisbon budget.

💡Money Saving Tip: Fly during shoulder season (April to May or September to October) for the best deals and smaller crowds.

Lodging: $29 USD or 26 € per night

I paid $29 per night at hostels.

Today, you can still find hostel stays for 30 – 45 € per night, and a private room at hotels ranges from 70 to 100 € per night.

💡Pro Tip: Many Lisbon hostels include complimentary breakfast which cuts down daily costs.

Since I booked last minute, I stayed at three different hostels throughout my six days in Lisbon.

1 Night: Lisbon Destination Hostel: $30.79 USD or 27,59 € for one bed in a 4-bed private ensuite room.

• Curtains for added privacy
• Ensuite bathroom and shower
• Reading light
• Large lockers below bed

2 Nights: Home Lisbon Hostel: $51.53 USD or 46 € for one bed in a deluxe 6-bed female dorm.

• Mamma’s tasty dinner
• A 4-minute walk from Baixa/Chiado area

2 Nights: Lookout Lisbon! Hostel: $60 USD or 54 € for one bed in a 9-bed “Bunk with a View” room.

• Two balconies
• Lounge area in room
• Reading light
• Large lockers with own key

If you plan on staying at a hotel in Lisbon or an Airbnb rental, budget accordingly.

Transportation to/from Airport: $4.24 USD or 3,80 €

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Lisbon’s city center is to hop on the underground metro. The metro is easy to navigate. I never got lost, which is rare.

One-way tickets cost $2.12 USD or 1,90 €. With one transfer, it took me 40 minutes to get to my hostel from the airport.

Alternatively, consider private rides and day trips with professional drivers through a service like Daytrip.

Average Daily Food Cost: $30 USD or 25 €

I would suggest budgeting $11 USD or 10 € per meal.

Since my hostels offered complimentary breakfast, this helped me save.

But please don’t skimp out on eating delicious Portuguese food in Lisbon.

You’ll likely find that you can afford to splurge a bit.

The cheapest meal I had cost $6 USD or 5 € for a fish sandwich. The most expensive dinner cost $16 USD or 14 €.

Food Details 

• Lunch at Casa Brasileira: $6.75 USD or 6,05 €
• Dinner at Amor y Tacos: $15.98 USD or 13,50 €

Beverage Details

• Bottle of Water: $2.35 USD or 2,10 €
• Latte: $1.70 USD-$2.80 USD or 1,50-2,50 €

How much to tip in Lisbon?

Tipping isn’t expected, but appreciated in Portugal.

Although the Portuguese do not traditionally tip, for exceptional service, tip between 5%-10% at restaurants.

Always check your bill before leaving a tip. Some restaurants add a 10% service charge.

At bars and cafes, round to the nearest euro.

Average Daily Activity Cost: $15 USD or 17 €

Lisbon Activity Details 

I would budget $15 USD a day for activities even though most days I barely spent that much.

There are so many free things to do in Lisbon. But to get a better sense of the activities I paid for, here’s a breakdown:

• Santa Justa Terrace (skipped the lift): $1.67 USD or 1.50 €
• Castelo de St. Jorge: $5.60 USD or 5 €
• Carmo Church and Convent Ruins: $2.80 USD or 2,50 €
• Rua Augusta Arch: $2.80 USD or 2,50 €
• Tip for Alfama Walking Tour hosted by Lisbon Destination Hostel: $10 USD (optional)

Read Next: 5 Incredible Viewpoints in Lisbon

Average Daily Alcohol Cost: $17 USD or 15 €

Alcohol Details 

• $1.50 USD or 1,35 € for Ginjinha (traditional Portuguese liqueur)
• $2.60 USD or 2,30 € for a Cider
• $5.59 USD or 5 € for a beer at Barrio Alto

Final Thoughts: Lisbon is Still a Great-Value

Lisbon may no longer be a hidden gem, but it still offers a great value, especially when compared to Paris, London, Barcelona, and Reykjavik.

In total, I spent $754 USD during my 6-day trip to Lisbon. My Lisbon budget included flights, lodging, food, and activities – everything!

This is pretty amazing! Most people spend more than this on flights to Lisbon alone.

What I love about Lisbon is that you can be frugal without missing a beat of the city’s liveliness. This isn’t always the case in other cities around the world.

With a little planning, you can experience the culture, food, and laid-back charm of Lisbon while staying within budget, whatever that may be.

The next time I find an amazing travel deal to Lisbon, I’m booking it.

⏩ Grab my Vacation Ready Financial Checklist to prep for finances for stress-free next travels to Portugal or your next destination.

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Danielle Desir Corbett

Danielle Desir Corbett is an award-winning and 6x grant-funded travel writer and podcast host who went from financial struggle to visiting 27+ countries all without waiting until retirement. Her story is proof that budget doesn’t limit adventure. Tune into The Thought Card Podcast for practical strategies to travel smarter and live on your terms. Say hello: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

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