Save money in Lisbon
Lisbon is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities. If you are planning a trip to the Portuguese capital, then you can live on a budget throughout your stay. You can definitely save money in Lisbon if you know where to go and what to do. There are some tricks to save money in Lisbon and our blog will help you find out how to live on a budget in the City of Light.
Stay away from tourist traps
Tourist traps can be found in travel hotspots around the globe. Lisbon is no different, but you can easily avoid the tourist traps the city has to offer. The Santa Justa Lift is one of the biggest tourist traps found in Lisbon. You will find queues to ride the lift and it can take some time to finally get on it. In addition, you must pay for the views provided. The lift may cost money to ride, but there is a way to get to the top by walking. Just walk behind the lift and make your way up the hill from there. You don’t even have to pay.
Get an Airbnb and cook your own meals
Cooking your own meals in Lisbon is one of the best ways to save money. An Airbnb accommodation provides you with a kitchen, making it possible to prepare your own food. Grocery stores are relatively cheap in Lisbon. Rather than dining out for three meals a day, buy some groceries to cook your breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Buy alcohol from local shops
Bars in any European city can be expensive. If you want to drink for cheap, then visit the local shops around Lisbon to get low-priced alcohol. Small shops generally have low prices on beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. After a long day of exploring the city, grab a few cheap beers from the newsagents and sip them while the sun sets. It is a great way to end the day.
Use public transport
One of the best ways to see Lisbon is by using public transport. The city’s tram system is an ideal way to get around and see some of Lisbon’s best parts. A 24-hour public transport pass in Lisbon costs just €6.40. It is a cheap and easy way to get around the city all day long.
Tourist attraction combo tickets
Seeing the city’s landmarks and top-rated tourist attractions can be expensive. By purchasing a combination ticket to see the city’s tourist attractions, you can save money in Lisbon. A number of Lisbon’s tourist attractions offer visitors a combined ticket at discount price. Major tourist attractions such as the Torre de Belém and the Mosterio dos Jeronimos have a combined ticket to see both sites for a discount. There is also free entry to certain Lisbon landmarks. Be on the lookout for the tourist attractions that allow you to explore for free.
Shop around for accommodation
Lisbon has a variety of accommodation options. From hotels and hostels to villas and apartments, there is something for everyone in the City of Light. When searching for accommodation, explore the various amenities that are offered. You may find accommodation with a swimming pool or centrally located for a low price. You may even get a five-star hotel for cheap. Houses and villas are excellent options for families or large groups travelling together. The options are nearly endless in Lisbon.
Don’t book breakfast
If you plan to book a hotel room for your stay in Lisbon, skip the breakfast that is offered by the hotel. Hotel breakfasts are typically far more expensive than they are at cafes and restaurants in Lisbon. You will find a cheaper, more filling breakfast at one of the cafes near your accommodation. In addition, you will experience the city by dining out in the morning before sightseeing. You will also find cheap breakfast food at the local supermarkets to eat in your hotel room.
Get away from the tourist areas
Lisbon has a lot of delicious restaurants serving up a variety of fare. Many of the best restaurants around Lisbon are off the beaten path and away from the tourist areas of the city. Getting away from the tourist areas of Lisbon, you will find some excellent dining options serving food for low prices. Lisbon’s local dining options serve rather large portions. Main dishes come with plenty of sides. Some of the meals are so large, you are able to order a half portion at many local restaurants.
Visit during shoulder season
Summertime is the most expensive time of the year to visit Lisbon. Prices spike as the crowds descend on the City of Light. Spring is should season and you can typically snatch low prices on accommodation from March to May. The temperatures are warm up during the spring. You may experience a bit of rain, but overall, the lower prices are well worth visiting in March, April, and May.
Walk around the city
Lisbon is a beautiful city and you don’t have to pay to see it. You can explore Lisbon on foot for free. You can traverse Lisbon’s gorgeous neighbourhoods, markets, shops, and more. The city’s street art and architecture are ideal for snapping Instagram photos. Exploring the city by foot is a free way to take in all of Lisbon. Don’t forget to take a bottle of water and some snacks to spend all day on your self-walking tour.
Visit Museu Berardo on Saturdays
Museu Berardo is free of charge on Saturdays. If you buy a Lisboa Card, you can visit the museum during the week and save 30% on the admission fee. The Museu Berardo is located in Belém and is home to modern and contemporary artwork. Some of the work on display was produced by Picasso, Duchamp, Andy Warhol, and many other famous artists.
The world’s oldest bookstore
Lisbon’s Chiado neighbourhood is home to the world’s oldest bookstore. Bertrand Chiado was founded in 1732. In 1755, the original location, which was created by two brothers from France, was destroyed by an earthquake. It was rebuilt and remains in business today. It sells modern and classic books in both England and Portugueses.
Lisbon is a beautiful city with prices lower than in many of the capitals across Europe. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on trip to the city of Light. With a little preparation, you can save money in Lisbon on your next trip.