Bargain beer and 3-hour flights: a beautiful city is recognized as the cheapest in Western Europe
Finding a cheap vacation in Western Europe can sometimes seem impossible, but there is one place where it is possible. A European city that is only a three-hour drive from the UK has been named the "least expensive city in Western Europe."
The study was published in the Economist Intelligence Unit Worldwide Cost of Living Report for 2023. Experts analyzed data from 173 cities around the world to find the most expensive and cheapest places. They based their conclusions on factors such as the price of food, clothing, rent, transportation, and other expenses. This information was published by thescottishsun.co.
Despite the fact that global prices rose by an average of 7.4%, some places managed to avoid a sharp increase, including one place in Portugal.
The crown of the cheapest city in Western Europe has been awarded to Lisbon, Portugal. This is due to the fact that the costs in the Portuguese city remain 56% lower compared to other Western European cities.
Prices for Hikers Bay, food and drinks remain relatively affordable. For example, lunch at an inexpensive restaurant costs 12 euros per person, while a pint of beer costs about 2.50 euros. Meanwhile, servings of Ginjinha (a sweet cherry liqueur) can be purchased for as little as €1.50.
Hotels in the city are also affordable. One night at the four-star TURIM Marques hotel will cost £65 per night based on two people sharing a room. Another affordable option is the Moov Hotel Lisboa Oriente, which has rooms from £65 per night based on double occupancy.
Both Ryanair and easyJet operate direct flights from UK cities such as London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham, with prices starting at £15 for a one-way trip. With a flight duration of 2 hours and 50 minutes, vacationers will arrive in the Portuguese city in less time than they would in Lanzarote in Spain.
When you book your trip, the best time to visit is summer, when temperatures reach 38 degrees in July and August.
Lisbon: what to see and do
As the second oldest capital in Europe, Lisbon has many attractions and activities to offer.
One of the main attractions of the city is São Jorge Castle, a historic castle located on top of São Jorge Hill. The site is now a popular tourist attraction where visitors can spend half a day exploring its formidable brick walls, cobblestone streets, and numerous observation decks.
Vacationers can also take one of Lisbon's iconic yellow trams to the castle.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol is another iconic viewpoint in the city where visitors can see the brilliant blue of the Tagus River.
At the same time, there is also Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is only a few miles from the city.
What should you know about Portugal?
The local language in Lisbon is Portuguese, but English is most likely spoken throughout the city.
Portugal is in the same time zone as the UK.
The local currency is the euro, 10 pounds sterling is worth approximately 11.52 euros.
There are currently no Covid restrictions and Brits can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa. However, you must have at least three months left in your passport after the day you plan to leave.
