With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Portugal has emerged as a popular tourist destination. For travelers seeking an affordable escape, a recent study by Porto Travel Guide unveils the top cities that offer both budget-friendly experiences and memorable adventures.
Topping the list as the most affordable city is Fafe, a charming destination that beckons with its picturesque scenery and welcoming atmosphere. Boasting an impressive affordability score of 87.91 out of 100, Fafe stands out for its economical dining options, with restaurant meals priced as low as $4.35 per person. Additionally, the city offers wallet-friendly accommodations, with some hotels offering rooms for as little as $13 a night.
Following closely behind, Oliveira de Azeméis claims the second spot with an affordability score of 87.85. This city shares Fafe’s enticing hotel prices, but distinguishes itself with even more economical local transport options, with one-way tickets priced at $1.31. Vila Nova de Famalicão secures the third position, scoring 87.6 for its affordability, highlighted by the lowest hotel room prices in the top ten at just $9 a night.
Ovar and Amarante round out the top five, offering affordability scores of 87.55 and 87.33, respectively. Ovar impresses with its reasonable hotel prices starting at $14 a night, while Amarante boasts extremely low-priced taxi tariffs at $0.95 and affordable local food and drinks.
The affordability assessment considered various factors such as flight and hotel costs, local travel expenses, and the price of restaurant meals. Porto Travel Guide utilized data from 104 Portuguese cities, creating an exhaustive analysis to help travelers plan cost-effective getaways.
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, the nearest international airport for all cities in the top 25, ensures consistently low flight costs, earning a perfect score of 10 out of 10. The study also reflects the growing interest in Portugal as a tourist destination, with a significant global average of 348,000 Google searches for ‘Portugal holidays’ over the past year.
Flavio Bastos, Editor at Porto Travel Guide, emphasizes that Portugal’s appeal lies in its cultural richness and the affordability of many hidden gems. As the cost-of-living crisis prompts a shift towards shorter breaks, these Portuguese cities become enticing options for an affordable weekend getaway without compromising on experiences.
“Affordable travel and accommodation costs for many of these hidden gems mean that tourists can experience the vibrant culture that the country has to offer, all without breaking the bank.”
Portugal beckons with its affordable charm, inviting travelers to explore the hidden treasures of Fafe, Oliveira de Azeméis, Vila Nova de Famalicão, Ovar, and Amarante. Whether indulging in delectable local cuisines or reveling in the country’s historical wonders, these cities promise an unforgettable and budget-friendly escape.
