Is it possible to have fun while travelling if you’re on a tight budget? It sure is, if you go to Lisbon. In a new survey, this Portugal capital won the top spot in a list of the most budget-friendly destinations in eastern Europe. The ranking was determined by some typical travel costs, which include a two-night stay at a three-star hotel, city transport, and wine, among others. The cost for a weekend holiday was estimated to be at around €259.
Most travel experts advise that tourists should diligently check the cost of meals, sightseeing, and drinks since these will take up most of your budget if you’re going to Lisbon. However, finding free activities to do, or going to places that don’t charge an admission fee can also help you save money if you plan on travelling frugally. To have fun without breaking the bank, discover some of the best things that you can do in Lisbon, for free!
Go on a Free Museum Tour
There are many ways to have an enjoyable weekend in Lisbon if you’ve got the budget for it. For instance, you can book a stay at a mountainside boutique hotel to get a sense of calm and privacy while relaxing in an idyllic place. Next, you can walk through the city and go shopping for colorful ceramic tiles or azulejos, which Lisbon is known for. But if you’re looking to save some money, consider going on a museum tour in the city. Schedule it on the first Sunday of the month since it’s when most of the top museums in Lisbon are free for tourists.
Start your tour at the Centro Cultural de Belém to see the art collection of Joe Berardo, which includes works from Rothko, Dali, Warhol, and Picasso. Next, head to The Museo do Dinero to see the history of money all over the world. End your museum tour at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, where you’ll see everything from Western art to 18th-century French decorative art.
Monument to the Discoveries in Belem
Take in the City Views
There are a lot of places in the city where you can have good views of Lisbon for free. Some of the most scenic viewpoints or miradouros include the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, which is a favorite among young adults in the city since it’s where you can watch the sunset while listening to live music. If you’re feeling thirsty, you can buy a drink from any of the nearby restaurants while taking in panoramic views of Lisbon. There’s also the Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, which is a garden that has a breathtaking view of the city.
Browse at the Markets
If you’re in the mood to shop, definitely make a beeline towards the markets. However, you don’t have to spend a single euro to have a great time there– you can just browse, check out the local produce, or take pictures of the offerings from the stalls if you wish to do. If you’re a foodie, one place that should be on your list is the Mercado da Ribeira, which is Lisbon’s main food market. You’ll see everything from fresh vegetables and fruit, freshly-caught fish, and other ingredients from early morning until 2pm. By noon, the food stalls open for lunch, and you can enjoy meals made by some of the best chefs in the city.
Lisbon is a frugal traveller’s paradise. Try doing any of these free activities in the city to make the most of your holiday while staying on budget.