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Portugal on a Budget: A 4-Day Adventure Through Lisbon, Peniche & Algarve
- Aayush Sharma
- May 15
- 3 min read
After our unforgettable escapade in Amsterdam, my friends and I set our sights on Portugal—a land of golden beaches, historic charm, and delectable cuisine. Here's how we made the most of four days in this beautiful country without breaking the bank. So here is Portugal on a Budget: A 4-Day Adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon & Exploring the Heart of the City
We touched down in Lisbon via Ryanair from Amsterdam, eager to immerse ourselves in the city's vibrant culture. Our home for the next few days was Home Lisbon Hostel, a gem nestled in the city's heart. The hostel exuded warmth with its friendly staff, interactive common areas featuring a piano, movie room, board games, and a library. The breakfast options (available at an additional cost) were a delightful start to our mornings.
Eager to explore, we wandered through the nearby streets, eventually arriving at Praça do Comércio. It is a hub of activity, surrounded by lemon-yellow buildings and outdoor cafés. As evening approached, we visited the Museu da Cerveja (Beer Museum of Lisbon). Although we arrived late and couldn't fully explore, the ambiance was inviting. For a relaxed evening, we headed to Outro Lado, a cozy spot known for its impressive craft beer selection and soothing vibes. Dinner was at Cais na Preguiça, a seafood restaurant where my friends indulged in fresh fish, while I savored a delightful spaghetti dish. A perfect end to our first day!
Day 2: Lisbon's Panoramic Views & Historic Landmarks
After a hearty breakfast at the hostel, we set out to explore Lisbon on foot. Our first stop was a return to Praça do Comércio, where the morning light bathed the plaza in a golden hue, offering stunning views of the Tagus River. This harbor-facing plaza is one of Europe's largest and home to the iconic equestrian statue of King José I.. Historically, it served as the royal palace's location before the devastating 1755 earthquake.
We then ascended to Miradouro das Portas do Sol, a renowned viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Lisbon's terracotta rooftops. The sight was truly mesmerizing. Our journey continued to Castelo de São Jorge, perched atop Lisbon's highest hill. This historic castle dates back to the 8th century BC and has served various roles—from a royal palace to military barracks. The €14 entry fee granted us access to ancient courtyards, battlements, and breathtaking views of the city.
Next, we visited the Money Museum (Museu do Dinheiro), housed in the former Church of S. Julião. This interactive museum delves into the history of money, showcasing rare coins, banknotes, and even a 12.6 kg gold bar that visitors can touch. The best part? Admission is free! For dinner, we couldn't resist returning to Outro Lado. The craft beers and budget-friendly pizzas made it a favorite. After a brief rest at the hostel, we ventured into Lisbon's famed nightlife, starting at Rua do Diário de Notícias, a bustling street filled with bars and live music.
Day 3: Road Trip to Peniche's Coastal Wonders
We picked up our rental car from Hertz and embarked on a scenic 1.5-hour drive north to Peniche, a coastal town renowned for its surfing beaches and dramatic cliffs. Our first destination was Praia dos Supertubos, famous for its powerful waves and international surf competitions.
For lunch, we grabbed a quick bite at Duna Kebab, fueling up for our next adventure—Praia do Carreiro de Joanes. This place is a geological marvel, showcasing magnificent sedimentary carbonate rock formations. The natural beauty left us in awe. As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Lisbon, reflecting on the day's coastal escapades.
Day 4: Skydiving Thrills in Algarve & Relaxation in Carvoeiro
This was the day we'd all been eagerly anticipating—skydiving in Algarve! We had pre-booked our 15,000 ft tandem jump with Skydive Seven via Viator, which allowed for free cancellation up to 24 hours before and payment upon arrival.
The 3-hour drive from Lisbon to Algarve was filled with picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival, the Skydive Seven team impressed us with their professionalism and clear communication. The experience? Exhilarating and unforgettable! The best view I could ever experience through my eyes from 15000ft above - the ocean and southern coast of Portugal, it was just magical!
Post-adrenaline rush, we headed to Carvoeiro, a charming town known for its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs. We spent a relaxing afternoon at Praia de Carvoeiro, a popular sandy beach flanked by picturesque rocky bluffs. The tranquil ambiance was the perfect counterbalance to our morning's excitement.
Our four-day journey through Portugal was a tapestry of vibrant city life, historic landmarks, coastal beauty, and thrilling adventures. From Lisbon's rich history and lively streets to Peniche's natural wonders and Algarve's adrenaline-pumping skydiving, every moment was a treasure.
Next up on our European adventure: the enchanting city of Barcelona! Stay tuned for more tales from our travels.
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