After multiple trips to Portugal, here’s the actual cost of 1 week from the US.
The TL;DR
| Tier | Total (excluding flights) |
|---|---|
| Budget | $700 |
| Mid-range | $1,500 |
| Luxury | $3,800 |
By category
Flights from US
$500-1,000 from East Coast direct (TAP). $700-1,300 West Coast with layover.
Accommodation (7 nights)
**Budget:** $35-60/night hostel/guesthouse: $245-420
**Mid-range:** $90-180/night boutique hotel: $630-1,260
**Luxury:** $250-700/night Pestana Palace, Tivoli, Six Senses Douro Valley: $1,750-4,900
Food (7 days)
**Budget:** Tasca lunches $5-8, bifanas $3-5: $80-150/week
**Mid-range:** Mix tascas + restaurants $15-30/meal: $200-450/week
**Luxury:** Michelin (Belcanto, Vila Joya): $80-200+/meal: $600-1,500/week
Transportation
**Lisbon metro:** $1.65/ride or $6.50 day pass
**Train Lisbon-Porto:** $25-40
**Algarve transport:** Rental car best ($30-70/day)
**Airport taxi:** $15-25 fixed
Activities + entrance fees
Jerónimos Monastery: $14
Day trip Sintra Palaces: $40-60
Fado dinner show: $40-90
Port wine tasting: $20-50
Surfing lesson Algarve: $40-80
How to lower cost
- Travel credit card sign-up bonus covers most flights
- Book direct (10-15% cheaper than Booking.com)
- Eat where locals eat (30-50% cheaper than tourist spots)
- Off-season (30-50% lower hotel rates)
FAQs
How much does a week in Portugal cost?
$700-$3,800 excluding flights.
Is Portugal expensive?
Depends on style. Budget $80-150/day. Mid-range $200-400. Luxury $500+/day.
Cheapest time to visit?
Off-season months (40-60% lower lodging).
Food budget?
Budget $15-30/day. Mid-range $40-70/day. Luxury $150+/day.
Use credit card points?
Yes – sign-up bonus covers most flights. Strategy guide.