Affordable 4-Day Trip to Lisbon, Portugal for Budget-Conscious Students

Day 1: Arrival and Central Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal on January 15, 2026

10:00am

Arrival at Lisbon Airport and Check-in

Arrive at Humberto Delgado Airport and take the metro or affordable Uber to your budget-friendly yet comfortable accommodation in central Lisbon, allowing easy access on foot to major sites.
EUR30, 1h

11:30am

Breakfast at Fabrica Coffee Roasters

Enjoy a delicious and affordable Portuguese coffee and pastry in this popular local café, open from 8am to 6pm.
EUR5, 0h30m

12:30pm

Explore Rossio Square and Baixa District

Wander through Lisbon's lively central squares and pedestrian streets filled with shops, tile architecture, and street performers. This is free to enjoy and great for first impressions.
EUR0, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Time Out Market

Enjoy a wide variety of Portuguese delicacies and international dishes under one roof in this famed food hall, offering affordable prices for students.
EUR12, 1h

3:30pm

Visit the Santa Justa Lift

Ride this iconic 19th-century lift offering panoramic views of Lisbon’s city center, open until 9pm.
EUR5, 0h45m

4:30pm

Walk through Chiado Neighborhood

Explore this cultural neighborhood with small bookstores, cafes, and historic sites, perfect for afternoon strolling and people watching.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at A Licorista O Bacalhoeiro

Try local Portuguese dishes like Bacalhau (codfish) in this affordable and authentic restaurant located centrally, open until 10pm.
EUR15, 1h
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Day 2: Belem and Riverside

Lisbon, Portugal on January 16, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local bakery

Start your day early with fresh pastries such as Pastel de Nata at a local bakery, moderately priced and filling.
EUR4, 0h30m

9:00am

Tram to Belem District

Take tram 15 or a bus to Belem, where many of Lisbon’s historic sights are located. The ticket costs are economical and the tram ride scenic.
EUR3, 0h45m

10:00am

Visit Jeronimos Monastery

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site open 10am-5:30pm with magnificent Manueline architecture. Entry is free for EU residents under 25 or low cost otherwise.
EUR0-10, 1h30m

11:45am

Pastéis de Belém for Snack

Try the famous Pastéis de Belém custard tarts at the historic bakery, affordable and iconic.
EUR2, 0h30m

12:30pm

Visit Belem Tower and Riverside

Walk along the Tagus River to this historic fortification open until 5pm, an ideal place for photos and a peaceful walk.
EUR5, 1h

1:45pm

Lunch at a local café

Enjoy a light and budget-friendly meal such as a sandwich or caldo verde soup near Belem.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

Visit this modern museum open 11am-7pm, featuring contemporary exhibitions. Affordable student entry fees.
EUR5, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to central Lisbon

Take the tram or bus back to your accommodation to rest before dinner.
EUR3, 0h45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pasteis de Portugal

Try affordable Portuguese dishes with good portions in this casual dining spot open until 10pm.
EUR12, 1h
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Day 3: Historic Alfama District

Lisbon, Portugal on January 17, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at Café A Brasileira

Enjoy traditional Portuguese breakfast in this historic café located in Chiado, open from 7am.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:30am

Explore Alfama and São Jorge Castle

Stroll the narrow streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, then visit São Jorge Castle open 9am-6pm, with panoramic views of the city.
EUR10, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chapitô à Mesa

Enjoy affordable traditional Portuguese dishes with a view of the river in this artsy, student-friendly restaurant.
EUR15, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Lisbon Cathedral (Sé)

Tour this Romanesque cathedral free entrance, with beautiful interior and historical significance.
EUR0, 0h30m

2:45pm

Visit National Tile Museum

Admire beautiful Portuguese azulejos (tiles) at this unique museum open 10am-6pm, entry fee is affordable with discounts.
EUR5, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Enjoy free viewpoints overlooking Alfama and the river, perfect for photos and a peaceful break.
EUR0, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tasca do Chico

Experience casual Fado music with affordable food and drinks, a great cultural night out open till 11pm.
EUR15, 2h
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Day 4: Markets and Departure

Lisbon, Portugal on January 18, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Mercado da Ribeira

Grab a quick and affordable breakfast from food stalls at this local market before heading out.
EUR5, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Feira da Ladra (Flea Market)

Explore Lisbon’s famous flea market open till early afternoon, perfect for souvenirs and people watching, free entrance.
EUR0, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk along the Tagus River and relax

Spend a peaceful morning walking along the riverfront, reflecting on your trip and enjoying the atmosphere.
EUR0, 1h

12:15pm

Light lunch at local café

Enjoy a small meal before heading to the airport for your departure.
EUR8, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Lisbon Airport

Take metro or taxi to the airport for your departing flight, allowing ample time for check-in.
EUR5, 1h
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