Visiting The Algarve on A Budget

*This is a collaborative post on visiting The Algarve on a budget

The Algarve is a popular holiday destination in Europe thanks to its gorgeous weather, exciting leisure opportunities and dramatic coastline. Ideal for every type of traveller, you don’t have to pay a hefty price tag to experience an enjoyable holiday in this little slice of heaven. Here are four ways you can keep costs down but still have a great time when holidaying in the Algarve: 

Accommodation when visiting The Algarve on a budget

The ideal accommodation for your Portuguese holiday will very much depend on the size of your group, as well as your needs. If you’re with a bigger party, renting a villa in Portugal not only gives you more privacy but also offers better value than equivalent hotel rooms. People don’t often realise this, but when the cost is split between your party, you have more money to spend on other things. 

For smaller groups, hotels or apartments in the Algarve are great options. They not only keep you close to the action but allow you to be sociable with other guests, should you want to make some new friends. 

Transport

If you like to explore while on holiday, you’ll be relieved to know that the Algarve is well-connected and has a good transportation network. While getting taxis everywhere for ease’s sake can be tempting, these can quickly add up. Using public transport or renting a car are easy alternatives for tourists looking to be more frugal. 

Undoubtedly, the easiest way to get around the Algarve is by car, but you can take advantage of intercity and local buses if you’re not sure how to rent a car abroad. Fares to popular destinations such as Lagos and Albufeira are very cheap and run on a reliable timetable. 

Food when visiting The Algarve on a budget

Deciding on food options can be tricky abroad, especially if you’re a fussy eater or have dietary requirements. Of course, you want to get a healthy sampling of the local food without spending an arm and a leg. So, how do you achieve a happy medium? 

If you’re staying in a private place, we recommend doing supermarket trips to bulk out most of your meals. You can save money on breakfast and lunch while treating yourself to some truly remarkable Portuguese dining. Cooking together can also be a fun activity to do when staying in a villa, but if you’re in a resort – don’t choose all-inclusive. 

Days out

Portugal is a beautiful country known for its natural beauty and exciting tourist locations so you can spend your days however you like. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or doing a bit of sightseeing, the Algarve has many attractions that aren’t expensive tourist traps.

Some exciting cost-free activities that you should add to your itinerary are dolphin spotting off the coast of Ria Formosa and watching the sunset at the Ponta da Piedade.