Picture this: Leah and I, armed with our backpacks and a shared sense of adventure, touch down in Portugal, ready to conquer the land of pastel de nata, gorgeous coastline, and more charming towns than you can shake a stick at.
Our first stop is Lisbon, the city that serves coffee strong enough to wake the dead. Seriously, you could probably power a small car with what they brew there. As soon as we arrive, Leah is already planning our exploration, making sure we don’t miss a single picturesque corner to Instagram. But first, we need a caffeinated reality check to fuel our explorations.
We stumble upon a tiny café tucked away in a narrow alley. It’s so small that the owner looks like he’s trying to open a portal to another dimension just to fit all his pastries behind the counter. We order two of those infamous pastel de nata and three coffees – because who needs sleep when you have sugar? We sit outside, trying to delicately bite into our treats like refined travelers, but it turns into a pastry explosion that leaves Leah laughing and me looking like I’ve just gone ten rounds with a very flaky dough.
After several rounds of laughter and an alarming amount of caffeine, we decide to take the infamous tram 28 through the city. Now, tram 28 is known for its great views and even better potential for making you feel like sardines in a can. As we’re crammed in there, I’m sandwiched between a lady with an impressive amount of baggage and an elderly man who seems to be judging my every life choice. I try to initiate small talk with him, but he just stares at me as if I’m trying to sell him a used car.
Post tram adventure, we ventured up to the Mouraria district, where we planned to eat like locals. Leah had read about a hidden gem where the locals apparently go. Little did we know that “hidden gem” often means “you’ll probably need a treasure map.” After an hour of navigating through narrow streets that would make a hedge maze look like a straight line, we finally find it. Unfortunately, I was so hungry by then that I almost hugged the waiter when he brought out the food.
Leah can’t stop giggling at my ecstatic face, especially when I discover they have a dish called bacalhau à brás, which pretty much means, “let’s ply this guy with cod and potatoes until he can’t walk.” No complaints here!
Our days in Portugal were filled with vibrant experiences, from getting lost in the Alfama district to way too many selfies in front of too many beautiful tiles. As we wrapped up our trip at the stunning beaches of the Algarve, we both realized that this whole “budget-traveling” concept had somehow morphed into “how many places can we eat gelato in one day without feeling guilty?”
By the end of our trip, Leah and I had amassed a treasure trove of stories—like the time I mistook a local’s friendly gesture for a bouquet and almost proposed marriage on the street. We returned home with our hearts full, our bellies bursting, and the knowledge that our next adventure would definitely include way more pastries, fewer tram rides, and perhaps a lesson or two in saying “no” to cruise control on our wallets!
Contents
Day 1: Lisbon
As Leah and I prepared for our epic adventure in Portugal, I couldn’t shake the feeling that we were about to dive into an unforgettable comedy of errors. Our first day had us feeling like budget travelers on a reality show called “Who Can Survive on €50?”
- Walk through the Alfama district, listen to free Fado music in a local café.
- Visit Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery (free first Sunday of the month).
- Explore LX Factory, a creative hub with street art and affordable food.
Leah, with her charm and enthusiasm, suggested we kick off our Lisbon excursion with a stroll through the Alfama district. I thought, “What could possibly go wrong? It’s just a walk!” So, off we went, dodging tourists who seemed to think the streets were a runway. If you’ve ever been to Alfama, you know it’s a maze of cobbled streets, steep hills, and eccentrically parked scooters.
Imagine Leah, with the grace of a gazelle, setting a brisk pace while I, strumming my imaginary guitar, tried to keep up. Suddenly, I stumbled over a cobblestone and performed what could only be described as a clumsy pirouette. I didn’t know if I was meant to be embarrassed or if I had just invented a new dance move—The Lisbon Stumble. With a slight laugh, Leah helped me up, and we went into a local café for some much-needed refueling with a couple of Pastéis de Belém.
Now, if you haven’t had these pastries yet, they might as well be a slice of heaven in a crumby pastry shell. As we gobbled down the sweet treats, Leah boldly proclaimed, “Let’s search for Fado music!” That’s when I learned that you cannot simply “search” for Fado music. In reality, you must dig deep into the Lisbon locational underbelly. After what felt like an epic scavenger hunt, we finally stumbled into a local café featuring the soul-stirring sounds of a Fado musician. Now, imagine my surprise when, instead of the soulful serenade, I found an octogenarian belting out ballads that left us in stitches. Instead of heartbreak, it was comedic gold, and the audience’s giggles only fueled her passion. We cheered her on enthusiastically, earning ourselves free refills of vinho tinto.
The next day, we felt like cultured tourists as we decided to visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery—especially since it was free on the first Sunday of the month. The plan was brilliant until we realized that Leah’s sense of direction was about as excellent as my cooking skills. After my third attempt at using Google Maps that somehow landed us in someone’s backyard rather than the historical sites, I started to ponder whether I should take my phone for a swim in the Tagus River.
Eventually, we found ourselves at the majestic monasteries looking like we had just fled an overgrown hedge maze. As we admired the intricate architecture, Leah quipped that we made a perfect pair: the “Chef of the Wilds” and the “Ambassador of Communication Technologies.” I raised a brow and countered that I definitely preferred my title: “The Misguided Navigator.” But hey, we made it, and the views were worth every unsolicited backyard tour.
After a long day of exploration, we decided to unwind at LX Factory, a vibrant creative hub where street artists and hipsters collide. Here, I channelled my inner artist and attempted to join in on a mural painting. Let’s just say it was a mix of abstract splatters and something that loosely resembled a stick figure holding a guitar. Leah not only managed to snap the perfect photo but also convinced me to buy the most quirky hot dog I had ever seen—complete with an unusual but utterly delicious avocado spread.
As the sun began to set, we tracked down what Leah called “the best Bifana sandwich” in all of Lisbon at a traditional tasca. For just a paltry €5, we got ourselves sandwiches that were bigger than my head! As we dug into our feast, I jokingly complained that my sandwich could be a new contestant on a cooking show titled “Survival of the Fattest.”
To top off our adventure, we returned to our hostel, where we were treated to a dinner that could only be described as a social experiment gone right. Let’s face it—mixing budget travelers, local dishes, and a communal dining table resulted in plenty of laughs and slightly questionable karaoke. Leah and I swore to never sing Justin Bieber’s “Baby” again after hearing our rendition that sent our fellow diners scrambling for their earplugs.
And thus, with our budget still intact and memories priceless, we ended our first two days in Portugal with shrieks of laughter and the kind of stories that’ll keep us entertained long after we’ve moved on to the next destination. If only they had a game show for quirky couples traveling on a budget; Leah and I would take home the grand prize without a doubt.
Day 2: Sintra
We were beyond excited to share our experience of traveling from Lisbon to Sintra, a day-trip destination that had long captured our imagination with its stunning palaces and lush landscapes. For this adventure, we opted for the train, which was not only easy on the wallet but also offered a scenic route through the picturesque Portuguese countryside.
We kicked things off at Rossio Station in Lisbon, where we tried to navigate the automated kiosks like pros. After some very intense button-pressing and a mild existential crisis over ticket prices (thank goodness they were budget-friendly!), we were on our way. Settling into our comfy seats, we let the delightful atmosphere of anticipation wash over us as the train sped off toward Sintra.
The 40-minute ride was nothing short of a visual feast. We were treated to views of rolling hills and charming villages, all while daydreaming about our upcoming royal escapades at the palaces. The excitement peaked when the iconic Pena Palace came into view—like a colorful cake peeking out from behind a curtain.
When we arrived at Sintra Station, we were immediately enveloped in a vibrant atmosphere that made us feel like kids again. Instead of hopping on a bus or a tuk-tuk (though they were beckoning like sirens), we decided to walk into the town center. It was about a 25-minute stroll, but we used it as an opportunity to admire the architecture and pretend we were in a movie montage—complete with a soundtrack of upbeat travel tunes.
As we wandered, we came to appreciate the important art of planning our return trip. We mapped out our day like strategic generals, determined to explore the jaw-dropping sites without feeling like we were in a race against time. Armed with our detailed itinerary, we set off to explore the enchanting palaces and lush gardens that Sintra is famous for.
By the end of the day, we felt a profound sense of fulfillment. We had soaked in the magical beauty of Sintra and left with hearts full of memories (and a newfound appreciation for budget travel). We couldn’t wait to share our adventures, complete with all the silly selfies and quirky facts we had picked up along the way!
It all started with an itch for adventure and a shared mantra—”Don’t Stay Confined; the Planet Belongs to All.” Leah and I were ready to dive headfirst into the wonders of Sintra. Armed with just a guidebook, a handful of snacks, and a spirit that craved spontaneity, we set our sights on a budget-friendly escapade filled with romance and laughter.
Visit Pena Palace (€7 early ticket).
Hike Moorish Castle instead of taking transport (€8 entry).
Picnic at Parque da Pena (buying groceries instead of dining out).
Our first destination? The stunning Pena Palace. For just €7 as early birds, we felt like financial wizards as we meandered through the vibrant gardens. I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the colorful blooms; Leah was in her element, chatting about flower arrangements with plants that looked like they had sprung straight from a Disney animated feature. I even tried to serenade her with my guitar, but apparently, the only audience that truly appreciated my performance was a curious squirrel who seemed oddly entertained.
Next up was the Moorish Castle. Instead of hopping on a bus, we decided to hike our way there, saving that extra €8. I flexed my muscles and joked about our adventure, “Why take the bus when we can take our legs?” The thrill of scaling those ancient walls was exhilarating, and the stunning views made it even better. I still chuckle thinking about Leah’s snack taking a dramatic tumble down the steep path, as we both erupted in laughter, imagining that it was off on its own epic journey.
Feeling the adventurous spirit in our bones, we then made our way to Parque da Pena for a budget picnic. We hit the grocery store before laying down our well-earned spread. Who knew picking out items could turn into a competition? “I get the cheese!” Leah declared, but I wasn’t about to let go of that title easily. “No way! I’m the cheese master!” I announced in a playful monologue that could have rivaled any cheesy movie scene. We ended up with a simple yet delightful feast of bread, cheese, and a mysterious green thing that Leah insisted was “very healthy.” Spoiler alert: it was just lettuce.
As we set up our picnic, I couldn’t resist strumming my guitar while Leah snapped photos of the moment. “This is living, babe!” I joked, holding an apple like it was a trophy from the grocery aisles. Just as I was getting into it, the apple rolled off and landed right on Gabriel, the unsuspecting squirrel who just looked up at us as if to say, “Really?”
Later, we made our way to Tascantiga for some delicious local tapas. We kept our dinner under €12 and dined like royalty. Between bites of delectable food and bursts of laughter, Leah excitedly launched into stories about her family’s flower business. I shared my less-than-stellar attempts at selling flowers, including how my plants had formed a union and gone on strike. We were drowning in laughter, the kind of laughter that echoes in your heart long after it has left your lips.
As the day came to a close and the sun began to dip, we hopped on an evening FlixBus to Coimbra, exhilarated and proud of our budgetary accomplishments. For just €10, we were whisked away to our next adventure, recounting our favorite moments of the day with the enthusiasm of seasoned travel bloggers.
Leaning my head against Leah’s shoulder, I declared, “I think we might just be the budget travel royalty of Sintra!” She chuckled and replied, “As long as we’re crowned with cheese and topped with lettuce, I’m all in!”
And there it was—a perfect blend of laughter, love, and perfectly budgeted activities, all while staying true to our belief that the planet truly belongs to all of us.
Day 3: Coimbra
- Budget Activities:
- Explore the University of Coimbra (€12, includes Joanina Library).
- Walk along the Mondego River & visit Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery.
- Meet students in a local café for cultural exchange.
- Budget Dining:
- Breakfast: Free hostel breakfast
- Lunch: Zé Manel dos Ossos – traditional Portuguese food (€8-10)
- Dinner: Local student café (€7 meal)
- Budget Accommodation:
- Serenata Hostel Coimbra (€20-25)
- Transport: Evening train to Aveiro (€5-7)
In the heart of Coimbra, Leah and I found ourselves surrounded by a scene that could have leapt straight from a postcard. The cobblestone streets, blooming trees overhead, and the warm laughter echoing from local cafés set the perfect backdrop for our Day One adventure. The majestic University of Coimbra, with its rich history as the oldest university in Europe, loomed above us, stirring our imaginations. We were ready to throw ourselves into this experience, all while being mindful of our budget.
Breakfast at Serenata Hostel was our first stop, and I tried to keep my eyes from glazing over at the tempting pastries. “Okay, Leah, one muffin won’t break the bank,” I joked, playfully trying to sneak an extra onto my plate. “I’m just maximizing my carb-load for our journey!” She swatted my hand away with a laugh, her eyes sparkling. “Don’t you dare, Mister! We have a whole day of exploring ahead—one muffin is good for the soul, but two is just overindulgence!”
With our stomachs happily filled with muffins, we headed towards the university. The colorful buildings and regal atmosphere drew us in, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement as we approached the Joanina Library. Stepping inside felt like entering a scene from a fantasy novel. Leah’s eyes went wide. “It’s like stepping into a Hogwarts library!” she whispered. I chuckled, “Are you saying we can magically escape the budget constraints?” But deep down, we both knew that if we wanted this adventure to last, sticking to our planned budget was key.
After visiting the library, we strolled along the banks of the Mondego River, the gentle water lapping against the shore inviting us to pause and reflect. Leah reached into her bag and pulled out her sketchbook. “I’ve been inspired by everything here,” she said, her fingers dancing with the pencil as she began to sketch the riverbank. I took out my guitar and started strumming a light, romantic tune. It felt wonderful, our art and music weaving together, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
“Can you believe we’re here?” Leah asked, looking up at me, her voice a mix of disbelief and wonder. “From Rio to Nairobi and now Coimbra, we’re really doing this!”
I grinned back at her. “Thank you for trusting me with this adventure! Our families might think we’re crazy, but this is living!”
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, we decided to visit the Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery. I was looking forward to capturing a nice moment with Leah. She set the camera timer and dashed back into position, but in a hilarious twist, she stumbled over a small stone. We both ended up in a fit of laughter. “I think my attempt at being graceful just flopped!” she exclaimed, cheeks flushed with excitement.
After a day filled with fun, we made our way to Zé Manel dos Ossos for lunch, where traditional dishes were a real treat. “I feel like we’re devouring art,” Leah said after savoring a mouthful of hearty stew. “Every bite tells a story. And look at that menu—it looks like a whole novel!”
As evening approached, we moved to a local student café for dinner. Between bites of our meals, we shared stories from back home, laughter spilling out like the memories we were recounting. “Remember when your sister thought I’d steal your guitar?” I recalled, chuckling at the memory of Leah’s sister Camila’s skeptical look back in Brazil. “How could I forget? She had that protective gaze so locked on you!” We both erupted in laughter again, realizing how our different backgrounds had brought us closer together.
Our hearts and minds full, we boarded the evening train to Aveiro, the affordable fare allowing us to keep funds for our next adventure. As the train chugged away, Leah rested her head on my shoulder, the soothing rhythm lulling us into a peaceful silence. We had conquered Coimbra, but we knew this was just the beginning of our journey together, exploring the world’s diverse landscapes.
With the spirit of adventure driving us, Leah and I embraced a renewed sense of purpose in our travels. We came to understand that love, laughter, and shared experiences are the greatest treasures of all. With our budget in hand, we were ready to dive into the next chapter of our story, relishing every spontaneous moment along the way.
Day 5: Porto
As Leah and I arrived in Porto from Coimbra, the vibrant atmosphere of the city instantly captivated us. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over the colorful buildings that lined the cobblestone streets. We dropped off our bags at a cozy hostel in the heart of the city, where the scent of freshly baked pastéis de nata wafted through the air.
Eager to explore, we set out to wander the picturesque neighborhood of Ribeira, with its stunning views of the Douro River. Street performers played lively music, and the sound of laughter filled the air as we mingled with locals and travelers alike. Our first stop was a charming café where we indulged in the famous local pastries and sipped on rich Portuguese coffee.
With our stomachs full, we strolled across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, marveling at the impressive architecture and breathtaking views of Porto’s skyline. The excitement of discovering a new place kept our spirits high, and we couldn’t wait to dive deeper into the city’s culture, cuisine, and history.
Our journey was just beginning, and Porto was the perfect starting point for an adventure that promised to enrich our lives and expand our horizons. We were ready to embrace whatever came our way, following our travel motto and making memories that would last a lifetime.
Walk across Dom Luís I Bridge for sunset views.
Visit Livraria Lello (€5, refund if you buy a book).
Join a free port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.
When we arrived in Porto, the energy instantly shifted. After checking into the Passenger Hostel, which had this quirky charm right inside São Bento station, Leah looked around and exclaimed, “Can you believe we’re in PORTO? Just look at all that azulejos!” Her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. I couldn’t resist teasing her a bit. “Are you sure you’re not just here for the Francesinha? I’ve heard it’s basically the Brazilian sandwich’s cousin—except a bit heavier!”
That first evening, we decided to walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to catch the sunset. As the golden sun dipped behind the horizon, it painted the river with a warm glow, creating the perfect backdrop for our adventure. Leah quickly pulled out her camera, urging me to act like a pirate. As I posed theatrically at the bridge’s edge, I couldn’t help but shout out, “I might not have a ship, but I can certainly steer the ship of love!” I strummed a love ballad on my guitar, delighting passersby who responded with cheers.
The next morning, we indulged in the free breakfast at the hostel. The coffee was invigorating, and those pastries? Pure bliss. “I think this is the best deal ever,” Leah said, her smile brightening the room. However, as we dug into a rather adventurous cheese spread, I cheekily asked, “You think Señor Antonio would approve of this spread?”
With our bellies full, we set out to visit Livraria Lello, renowned as one of the most stunning bookstores globally. After paying €5, which Leah excitedly interpreted as an investment since she would be reimbursed after finding a delightful book on Portuguese flora, I couldn’t resist the urge to nudge her and say, “Perfect for your return to your flower empire!” As we climbed the bookstore’s iconic spiral staircase, Leah was in awe, dreaming aloud about having a similar place back home. “I bet my brothers wouldn’t stop arguing over who gets to read the latest mystery novel first!” she laughed.
After our literary adventure, we headed to Vila Nova de Gaia for a free port wine tasting. As we savored the rich flavors, Leah turned to me, her curiosity shining. “Okay, how do you say ‘cheers’ again?” she asked. I responded confidently, “Saúde! And don’t forget to wink to charm them!” She giggled, practiced her wink on the server, and even made him blush, creating an unforgettable moment between us.
For lunch, we couldn’t resist trying the famous Francesinha. Huddled close together at a cozy café, Leah relished every bite while I put on my best food critic performance. “This is not just food; it is an experience! A blend of cultures on a plate,” I proclaimed, raising my fork like a microphone. Leah laughed, finding my antics amusing, and teased me, “Next time, you should use that charm for restaurant reviews!”
As dusk began to settle, we hopped on a bus to Braga, tickets in hand, laughter carrying us along the ride. We chatted about our plans to explore historic sites, and Leah’s excitement mirrored my own. “Who knows what other adventures await?” she said, feeling exhilarated yet comforted by my presence beside her.
That first evening in Braga promised yet another romantic chapter, filled with more laughter, budget dining, and whispered conversations under a starlit sky. Our hearts were already full from Porto, but we knew that this journey was just beginning. Together, we were driven by a shared philosophy of love, discovery, and an unyielding zest for life.
Day 6: Braga
As Leah and I boarded the train from Porto, the anticipation of exploring Braga filled the air. The sun was shining, casting a golden hue over the landscape, and with every passing moment, the vibrant countryside unfolded before us—picturesque hills dotted with charming houses, blooming flowers, and sprawling fields. We could hardly contain our excitement. It felt like embarking on an adventure that was just waiting to unfold, much like our relationship—spontaneous, colorful, and full of life.
Climb Bom Jesus do Monte staircase for free views.
Visit Braga Cathedral.
Explore the Garden of Santa Barbara.
Framed by the comfort of our budget-travel ethos, we had meticulously planned our journey to include incredible sights and experiences without breaking the bank. My heart swelled with pride knowing Leah and I had become experts in budget-friendly travel. As we settled into our seats, the train hummed along like a well-tuned guitar, and I couldn’t resist strumming a few chords while Leah tapped her foot in rhythm, her laughter mingling with the sound.
Arriving in Braga, we were immediately struck by the charming town square, which radiated warmth and community. With our backpacks slung over our shoulders, we set off to our first destination: the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte staircase. As we climbed the 581 steps, the warmth of the sun contrasted with the cool breeze, and we cheered each other on, high-fiving at intervals just for fun. The view from the top was nothing short of breathtaking—the sprawling panorama of the city below was balanced by the beautiful gardens above. Standing there, with the landscape unfolding before us, Leah leaned into me, and we shared a moment of quiet reflection, capturing the perfect photo to immortalize our adventure.
A breathtaking scene at the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte staircase in Braga, Portugal. The intricate zigzagging white stairway, adorned with ornate fountains and statues, stretches behind, leading up to the majestic church at the top. The warm sun casts a golden glow, while a cool breeze stirs the lush greenery surrounding us.
Next, we wove our way through the narrow cobblestone streets towards the Braga Cathedral, a stunning historical gem that sat proudly at the heart of the city. The intricacies of the architecture left us awestruck, and as we explored the interior, I quietly quizzed Leah on the details of the cathedral, pretending to be a passionate historian while actually just trying to impress her. Together, we marveled at the blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, exchanging little facts I had ‘discovered’ in my guides. It was moments like this, where we gleefully engaged in playful banter, that solidified our connection.
The afternoon sun prompted a visit to the Garden of Santa Barbara, a serene oasis adorned with colorful flowers—an homage to Leah’s horticultural background. We wandered through the neatly manicured paths, and Leah’s eyes lit up at the sight of countless blooms. Knowing her family’s dedication to horticulture, I couldn’t help but nudge her to imagine the beauty of a Brazilian garden infused with local Portuguese flora. Together, we laughed, made silly garden puns, and enjoyed each other’s company amidst nature’s beauty. It was a slice of paradise that any family member could appreciate.
By this time, we were ready for lunch, and the local pastry shop beckoned us with the promise of warm Tibias de Braga and rich coffee. For just €5, we savored the delightful pastries with flaky crusts filled with sweet cream, as we animatedly discussed our dreams and goals, visions of travel painting a future before us. It felt incredibly rewarding to indulge in local cuisine while sticking to a budget, each bite reminding us that happiness often lies in simple pleasures.
As the sun dipped lower, our next destination led us to a local tasca for dinner, where we savored authentic dishes for a mere €8 to €10 each. We shared plates overflowing with rich flavors—the taste of grilled sardines lingering on my palate while Leah savored a comforting bowl of caldo verde, her smile radiating joy. We toasted to our adventures, clinking our glasses while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and the familiar sound of locals enjoying their evening.
After an eventful day, we checked into the Braga Historic Center Hostel, a quaint place that combined comfort with affordability at just €18 per night. As we settled into our shared room, surrounded by fellow backpackers, I picked up my guitar and strummed softly to unwind. Leah’s voice accompanied me in the hushed tones of the night, blending beautifully with the intimate atmosphere. In that moment, we both contemplated how far we had come—from our distinct backgrounds to this very moment, together, experiencing the world as partners in travel and in life.
Before heading to bed, we planned our trip to Guimarães for the next day—another adventure waiting just around the corner, only a short bus ride away for €5. With our spirits high and dreams flowing freely, Leah whispered, “Remember, the planet belongs to all.” It felt like the world was indeed at our fingertips, full of love, laughter, and the thrill of discovery. With heartbeats synchronized and laughter spilling into the night, we drifted off, excited for the adventures yet to come.
Day 7: Guimarães
- Budget Activities:
- Explore Guimarães Castle (€6).
- Walk the medieval city center, meet artisans.
- Enjoy a cheap tasca meal with locals.
- Budget Dining:
- Breakfast: Free hostel breakfast
- Lunch: Petiscos (Portuguese tapas) meal (€7-10)
- Dinner: Home-cooked meal at hostel (€5, communal dinner)
- Budget Accommodation:
- Guimaraes Living Lodge (€20)
- Transport: Bus to Viana do Castelo (€7)
Day 8: Viana do Castelo
- Budget Activities:
- Visit Santa Luzia Basilica (hike up for free views).
- Stroll Cabedelo Beach, meet local fishermen.
- Budget Dining:
- Breakfast: Local bakery (€3)
- Lunch: Sardinhas Assadas (grilled sardines) (€7)
- Dinner: Affordable seafood meal (€10)
- Budget Accommodation:
- Hotel Margarida da Praça (€25)
- Transport: Train/bus to Nazaré (€10)
Day 9: Nazaré
- Budget Activities:
- Watch big waves and chat with local surfers.
- Visit Sítio viewpoint.
- Budget Dining:
- Breakfast: Free hostel breakfast
- Lunch: Budget seafood meal (€8)
- Dinner: Street food (€5)
- Budget Accommodation:
- Hostel Nazaré (€20)
- Transport: Train/bus to Évora (€12)
Day 10: Évora
- Budget Activities:
- Visit Chapel of Bones (€5).
- Stroll through Roman Temple ruins.
- Budget Dining:
- Breakfast: Free hostel breakfast
- Lunch: Empadas (savory pastries) & fresh juice (€6)
- Dinner: Local café meal (€8)
- Budget Accommodation:
- Heaven Inn Évora Hostel (€18)
- Transport: Return to Lisbon by budget bus/train (€12)
Total Estimated Budget Per Person (Excluding Flights)
- Accommodation: €18-25 per night → €200-250 total
- Transport: Average €70-90 for the whole trip
- Food: €15-20 per day → €150-200 total
- Activities: Mostly free or €5-10 each → €60-80 total
➡️ Total Budget for 10 Days: Approx. €500-600 per person
This itinerary balances affordability, comfort, and local experiences—perfect for Leah and Safari! Let me know if you’d like any tweaks. 😊
