Backpacking in Portugal: A Complete Guide

Portugal, with its sun-soaked beaches, historic cities, affordable prices, and welcoming locals, has become a popular destination for backpackers. From the stunning cliffs of the Algarve to the narrow streets of Lisbon and the wine regions of Porto, Portugal offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.

1. Cost Breakdown

Portugal is one of the more affordable destinations in Western Europe, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Here’s a breakdown of average costs:

• Accommodation:

  • Hostel dorm bed: €15-30 ($16-33 USD) per night
  • Budget hotel: €40-70 ($45-77 USD) per night
  • Airbnb (private room): €25-60 ($28-66 USD) per night
  • Campsites: €10-20 ($11-22 USD) per night

• Food:

  • Pastry or sandwich at a café: €1-3 ($1.10-3.30 USD)
  • Cheap local meal (tapas or a meal at a tasca): €5-10 ($6-11 USD)
  • Mid-range restaurant meal: €15-25 ($17-28 USD)
  • Groceries: €20-40 ($22-45 USD) per week

• Transportation:

  • Local bus/metro: €1.50-2 ($1.65-2.20 USD) per ride
  • Intercity train: €10-25 ($11-28 USD)
  • Bus between cities: €5-20 ($6-22 USD)
  • Budget flights: €20-60 ($22-67 USD) for domestic or European flights
  • Car rental: €20-40 ($22-45 USD) per day
  • Gasoline: €1.65-1.80 per liter ($7-7.50 USD per gallon)

• Activities:

  • Museum entry: €5-10 ($6-11 USD)
  • Guided tours: €20-50 ($22-55 USD)
  • Boat tour in the Algarve: €20-30 ($22-33 USD)
  • Wine tasting: €10-20 ($11-22 USD)
  • Surfing lessons: €20-40 ($22-45 USD)
  • Hiking: Free

You can comfortably backpack Portugal for around €40-80 ($45-90 USD) per day, depending on how you manage accommodation, transportation, and food.

2. Top Places to Visit in Portugal

Portugal offers a variety of landscapes, from historic cities to coastal towns, and it's small enough that you can explore it easily by bus or train. Here are some top destinations to consider:

• Lisbon: Portugal’s capital is a mix of old and new, with vibrant neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and a lively arts scene. Stroll through the narrow streets of Alfama, visit Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, and enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Don’t miss the bustling nightlife in Bairro Alto and the delicious pastries at Pastéis de Belém.

• Porto: Famous for its wine, Porto is a picturesque city with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and beautiful views along the Douro River. Visit the Livraria Lello (one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world), the Ribeira district, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Porto is also a great base for exploring the Douro Valley and its vineyards.

• Sintra: Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is known for its fairy-tale castles and lush landscapes. Visit the colorful Palácio da Pena, explore the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and hike to the Castelo dos Mouros for stunning views.

• Algarve: Portugal’s southern coast, the Algarve, is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Popular towns like Lagos, Faro, and Albufeira offer both vibrant nightlife and relaxing beaches. Don’t miss the stunning cliffs at Ponta da Piedade and the hidden beaches at Praia da Marinha.

• Évora: Located in the Alentejo region, Évora is a historic city known for its well-preserved Roman temple, Templo de Diana, and the eerie Chapel of Bones. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into Portugal’s ancient past.

• Madeira: This volcanic island off the northwest coast of Africa is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the rugged coastline, hike the Levada trails, and visit the capital city of Funchal for stunning botanical gardens and cable car rides.

• Coimbra: Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, Coimbra is a charming city with a rich academic history. Visit the stunning Joanina Library, the Old Cathedral, and the university campus perched on a hill.

• Nazaré: A coastal town known for its giant waves, Nazaré attracts surfers from around the world. The Praia do Norte is home to some of the largest surfable waves on the planet, and the town itself offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed vibe.

• Cascais: This upscale coastal town just outside Lisbon is a favorite getaway for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy its pristine beaches, lively marina, and elegant streets lined with shops and restaurants.

• Azores: The Azores archipelago is an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers who love nature. With lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and hot springs, islands like São Miguel and Pico offer a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to whale watching.

3. Travel Essentials

• Public Transport: Portugal’s public transportation is reliable and affordable. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, metros and buses are the best ways to get around. The Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains connect major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Faro, and Coimbra. Rede Expressos buses are a cheaper alternative for traveling between cities.

• Car Rental: If you plan to explore more rural or coastal areas like the Algarve or the Douro Valley, renting a car can give you more flexibility. Keep in mind that roads in older parts of towns can be narrow and parking in cities can be expensive.

• Language: Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. It’s still helpful to know basic phrases like "Olá" (Hello), "Obrigado" (Thank you), and "Por favor" (Please).

• Cultural Etiquette: Portuguese people are friendly and welcoming. A polite greeting goes a long way. In restaurants, tipping is not expected but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

4. Travel Tips

• Free Walking Tours: Many cities in Portugal, including Lisbon and Porto, offer free walking tours. These are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture from a local guide. While the tours are free, tipping is encouraged.

• Affordable Eats: Portugal is known for its affordable and delicious food. Head to a local tasca (small restaurant) for traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), caldo verde (kale soup), and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). Try petiscos, the Portuguese version of tapas, for a budget-friendly meal.

• Visit in Shoulder Seasons: The best times to visit Portugal are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot, especially in the inland regions, and beaches can get crowded.

• Explore the Wine Regions: Portugal is famous for its wines, especially Port from Porto and Vinho Verde from the northern regions. Take a wine tour in the Douro Valley or visit local wine cellars in Porto for tastings.

• Hiking: Portugal has a variety of hiking trails, from the Rota Vicentina along the Alentejo coast to the Madeira Levada trails. These are great ways to explore the country’s natural beauty.

• Surfing: Portugal is a top destination for surfing, with spots like Peniche, Ericeira, and Nazaré offering great waves. You can easily find surf schools and rent boards at most beaches.

5. Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Portugal, with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and blooming flowers. It’s perfect for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities.

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season, especially in coastal areas like the Algarve. The weather is hot, and prices can be higher, but it’s ideal for beach lovers and outdoor festivals.

• Fall (September to November): Fall is a great time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s also the harvest season in the wine regions, making it a great time for wine tours.

• Winter (December to February): Winters in Portugal are mild, especially in the south. It’s a good time to visit cities like Lisbon and Porto without the crowds, but expect cooler and rainy weather in northern regions.

Conclusion

Backpacking in Portugal offers an exciting mix of historic cities, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether you're sipping Port wine in Porto, exploring the cliffs of the Algarve, or enjoying the nightlife in Lisbon, Portugal is an accessible and affordable destination that can easily fit into a backpacker's itinerary.