Is Lisbon Expensive? A Practical 2025 Guide

Lisbon is no longer the bargain it once was — but it's still excellent value compared to other European capitals, if you know where to look.

Hotels and apartments

Accommodation is where Lisbon has changed most. A well-located four-star hotel can now sit close to Paris or Barcelona prices in spring and early autumn. Book early for April, May, June, September and October; those months sell out faster than many visitors expect.

Restaurants

You can still eat extremely well for €15–25 per person at traditional lunch restaurants, especially outside the most obvious tourist streets. Dinner at a good contemporary Portuguese restaurant is more often €45–80 per person with wine. Seafood temples and hotel rooftops climb quickly from there.

Transport and tours

Metro, trams and buses remain good value, but taxis and ride apps are often the easiest option for short stays. Private tours cost more than group tickets, but they save time, stairs, waiting, and decision fatigue — especially for Sintra, viewpoints, and family travel.

Where Lisbon is still excellent value

• Coffee and pastries at old cafés.
• Wine by the glass compared with northern Europe.
• Museums and monuments outside peak hours.
• Day trips when transport is organised efficiently.
• Long lunches in neighbourhood restaurants.

Lisbon is not cheap anymore. It is still worth it — if you spend on time, access and good tables rather than on tourist traps.