Looking for the most affordable spot in Portugal to explore without breaking the bank? A recent study has revealed that Silves, a historic gem in the Algarve, takes the crown as the top budget-friendly destination during the off-peak season. With travel costs slashed and fewer crowds, savvy travellers can enjoy a more intimate experience of Portugal’s scenic cities at unbeatable prices.
The research, conducted by Lisbon Tickets & Tours, ranked various Portuguese destinations by analysing key expenses, including flights, accommodation, food, and local attractions. The study found Silves to be the most affordable, scoring an impressive 61.34 out of 100, thanks to a combination of low-cost flights from the UK (£49.60 on average), reasonable hotel prices (£73.16 per night), and affordable dining, with a beer costing just £2.50.
| Location | Average cost of flights from the UK (£) | Average hotel cost per night (£) | Average cost of a beer (£) | Overall Score out of 100 | Rank |
| Silves | 49.60 | 73.16 | £2.50 | 61.34 | 1 |
| Vila Real de Santo António | 49.60 | 67.85 | 2.50 | 61.02 | 2 |
| Ponta Delgada | 82.65 | 81.28 | 1.33 | 58.69 | 3 |
| Lagos | 49.60 | 79.22 | 1.67 | 58.59 | 4 |
| Porto | 62.70 | 88.00 | 2.50 | 58.20 | 5 |
| Braga | 62.70 | 73.07 | 1.88 | 56.99 | 6 |
| Coimbra | 64.38 | 72.58 | 1.67 | 53.74 | 7 |
| Gerês | 62.70 | 73.93 | 1.88 | 53.54 | 8 |
| Faro | 49.57 | 91.42 | 1.67 | 52.95 | 9 |
| Évora | 64.38 | 80.72 | 0.83 | 51.11 | 10 |
Vila Real de Santo António, another Algarve destination, closely followed Silves in second place with a score of 61.02. Ponta Delgada in the Azores, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, came in third, offering some of the cheapest beer in Portugal at £1.33 per pint. These results highlight a range of affordable destinations, proving that Portugal remains a top choice for budget-conscious travellers.
The study sheds light on the significant savings available by travelling off-peak, although there are some trade-offs, such as cooler weather and potential closures of certain tourist attractions. However, with picturesque cities like Silves and Vila Real de Santo António offering a more relaxed vibe and lower costs, it’s a win-win for those looking to experience the country without the hustle and bustle of high-season crowds.
Here’s a snapshot of the top five affordable destinations in Portugal, ranked by overall cost-effectiveness:
- Silves – Average flight: £49.60, Hotel: £73.16, Beer: £2.50
- Vila Real de Santo António – Average flight: £49.60, Hotel: £67.85, Beer: £2.50
- Ponta Delgada (Azores) – Average flight: £82.65, Hotel: £81.28, Beer: £1.33
- Lagos – Average flight: £49.60, Hotel: £79.22, Beer: £1.67
- Porto – Average flight: £62.70, Hotel: £88.00, Beer: £2.50
While Silves may have topped the affordability chart, other regions like Porto and Faro are still offering great deals. However, Funchal, in Madeira, was found to be the least affordable, with a significantly lower score of 31.88.
Magdalena Petrusic, a travel expert from Lisbon Tickets & Tours, noted: “This study underscores the charm and affordability of Portugal’s lesser-known cities, especially during the quieter off-peak season. It’s the perfect opportunity for travellers to explore scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture—without paying high-season prices.”
For those planning a budget trip to Portugal, this study offers a comprehensive guide to making the most out of every penny while still enjoying the very best that this beautiful country has to offer. So, if you’re looking for the most affordable spot in Portugal, now’s the time to book your off-season adventure!