Travelling the World on a Budget: Portugal Christmas Market 'Extreme Day Trip' Edition!

Last Saturday, Mum and I set off on an extreme day trip to Lisbon, and despite a delayed flight, we had an unforgettable adventure in this vibrant European city. Here's a detailed breakdown of our day, including tips, must-see attractions, and the cost of everything – all while keeping the budget in check.

Flight Delays and How We Made the Most of It

Our journey started with a 5:55 AM flight from Stansted to Lisbon, but fog caused a two-hour delay. After a frustrating wait, we finally touched down in Lisbon by 10 AM. Although we lost a bit of time, we were still eager to make the most of our 24-hour visit to the city.

Wonderland Lisboa Christmas Market

Our first stop after arriving was Wonderland Lisboa, a charming Christmas market near the São Sebastião metro station. The festive atmosphere was perfect for easing into the day. We grabbed hot chocolate and mulled wine and strolled through the market stalls, soaking up the Christmas cheer.

Big Red Bus Tour of Lisbon’s Highlights

Next, we hopped on the Big Red Bus Tour to explore more of Lisbon. We chose the Red Route, which took us past iconic landmarks such as Marquês de Pombal, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and Basílica da Estrela. The tour was an excellent way to see a lot of the city without the stress of navigating on our own.

Elevador da Glória: A Historic Funicular Ride

After the bus tour, we took the Elevador da Glória, an old-school funicular that offers panoramic views as it takes you up to Bairro Alto. The views at the top were well worth the short ride – it’s one of the best ways to see Lisbon’s beauty from above.

Authentic Portuguese Dinner Near Rossio Square

By this time, we were hungry and decided to stop for a delicious traditional meal at Beira Gare, located near Rossio Square. The food was affordable and authentic, just what we needed before heading back out to explore more of Lisbon’s festive markets.

Europe’s Tallest Christmas Tree in Comércio Square

To end our day in Lisbon, we visited Comércio Square to see Europe’s tallest Christmas tree, standing at 76 meters. The lights made the tree shine brightly against the evening sky, creating a magical end to our trip.

Cost Breakdown for a Budget Day in Lisbon

• Flights: £27.86 (Stansted to Lisbon), £20.27 (Lisbon to Stansted)
• Airport Parking (Premier Inn): £12/day (£6 per person)
• Airport Transfer: £4 per person (each way)
• Big Red Bus Tour: £24 per person
• Metro: £1.80 per journey
• Total (Excluding Food/Drink): £87.93 per person

Top Tips for a Budget-Friendly Day Trip to Lisbon

1. Prepare for Delays: Weather delays are common. Use this time to plan your day or relax.
2. Pack Light: Keep things simple with a small backpack containing essentials.
3. Get a Metro Card: Save time and money with a metro card for easy access to public transport.
4. Prioritise Key Attractions: Focus on the must-see spots and plan your day around them.
5. Soak in the Festive Vibes: Lisbon’s Christmas markets are a great way to kick off your day.
6. Ride the Funicular: The Elevador da Glória offers a unique way to see Lisbon from above.
7. Visit Comércio Square at Night: The Christmas tree here is breathtaking after dark.
8. Eat Central: Beira Gare is a great place to enjoy authentic Portuguese food near key attractions.
9. Stick to a Budget: Plan ahead and use public transport to keep costs low.
10. Take Time to Enjoy the City: Mix planned activities with leisurely strolls to truly experience Lisbon.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Lisbon on a Budget

Lisbon is a fantastic city for a budget-friendly extreme day trip, with rich history, festive charm, and incredible food. For under £100 per person (excluding food and drink), we managed to explore the city's top attractions, soak in the holiday spirit, and still have time to relax. Whether you're after history, culture, or just a good time, Lisbon has something for every traveller.

Looking for more budget travel tips and inspiration for your next adventure? Stay tuned to Travelling the World on a Budget for more tips on how to explore the world without breaking the bank!