Let’s talk about Portugal – a destination that’s buzzing with charm, sunshine, culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re heading there for the history, the beaches, or the wine (or all three, no judgment), there’s a good chance you’ll fall head over heels like we did. Even better? It’s actually affordable. For South Africans looking to make their rands stretch further in Europe, Portugal is a total win.
Here are seven solid reasons why we can’t get enough of this laid-back gem – and why you should consider a Portugal holiday package ASAP.
You don’t need to have billionaire energy to enjoy Portugal. From street food that costs less than a cappuccino back home, to public transport that’s seriously efficient and easy on the pocket, Portugal on a budget is totally doable.
A sit-down meal? From €10–€15 (about R206 upwards). Local wine? About €3 (roughly R62) a glass (and it’s amazing). Entrance to castles and museums? Many are free or just a few euros. This is one of the few Western European countries where you can enjoy a holiday without constantly side-eyeing your bank account.
So, if you’re searching for cheap holidays to Portugal, you’re already on the right track.
Wondering “Should I see Lisbon?” Oh yes. Absolutely. The capital of Portugal is cool without trying too hard. You’ll find colourful buildings, tiled sidewalks, vintage trams that rattle through the streets, and views that’ll have your phone camera working overtime.
Pop into Time Out Market for a food crawl, get your steps in climbing the hills (worth it for the views), or chill in a café in the Alfama district while listening to soulful fado music.
And yes, you must try a fresh pastel de nata. Preferably several. Lisbon has our heart.
You don’t need a big budget to have a good time here. So, what is free in Portugal? Quite a lot, actually.
The vibe, the energy, and the street culture? Totally free.
Portugal’s coastline is legendary, and whether you’re into surfing, sunbathing, or just chilling, there’s a stretch of sand with your name on it.
Best beaches in Portugal? We’ve got a few faves:
Beach vibes, sorted.
Wondering “What is the cheapest way to get around Portugal?” Trains and buses! You can travel from Lisbon to Porto in under four hours for a bargain if you book early. In the cities, metro and tram systems are reliable, clean, and affordable.
Want a view? Hop on Tram 28 in Lisbon for a ride through the city’s historic neighbourhoods. It’s practically a tour – for the cost of a regular ticket.
What is the number 1 attraction in Portugal? Most people agree it’s Sintra – a fairy tale town just outside Lisbon, filled with palaces, lush gardens, and epic views. You’ll feel like you’ve walked into a storybook.
Other places to visit in Portugal include:
Not sure what not to miss in Portugal? Just start with these and work your way through.
Worried about the language barrier? Don’t be. While Portuguese is the official language, English is spoken pretty widely in the cities and touristy areas. Menus, signs, and public transport info often come in English too. Just learn a polite “obrigado/a” (thank you), and you’re golden.
For South Africans, you’ll need a Schengen visa, which covers 27 European countries, including Portugal. It’s valid for short stays (up to 90 days), and you’ll need to apply in advance. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
Book through Pentravel, and our expert consultants can help guide you through the process step-by-step.
That’s a tough one, but a strong contender is the Douro Valley – rolling hills, vineyard-covered slopes, and river views for days. But honestly? From Lisbon’s tiled walls to the rugged coastline of the Algarve, beauty is everywhere. You’ll just have to go see for yourself.
If you’re all about slow travel and seeing multiple places in one trip, a cruise that includes Portuguese ports like Lisbon, Porto or Madeira is totally worth considering. It’s a chilled way to sample the country, and then maybe come back later for a deeper trip (we’re calling it now – you’ll want to).
So, whether you’re planning to soak up the sun, chase the best attractions in Portugal, or find the best places to visit in Portugal without draining your savings, Portugal just works. Affordable, exciting, and full of flavour – both literally and figuratively.
Book your Portugal holiday package through Pentravel and we’ll help you plan the perfect trip, from flights to fun. Whether you’re going for the food, the beaches, or the vibes – we’ve got your back.
Let’s find your next adventure (and some pasteis de nata) in Portugal!
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