When it comes to traveling, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. Two popular destinations in Europe that often get compared in terms of affordability are Lisbon and Madrid.
So, which one is cheaper? Let’s take a closer look.
Accommodation
One of the biggest expenses while traveling is accommodation. In Lisbon, you can find budget-friendly hostels for as low as €10-€15 per night. Mid-range hotels typically cost around €60-€80 per night, while luxury hotels can go up to €200 or more per night.
In Madrid, hostels are slightly more expensive with prices ranging from €15-€20 per night. Mid-range hotels usually start at around €80-€100 per night, while luxury hotels can cost over €300 per night.
Food and Drink
Both Lisbon and Madrid have a rich culinary culture that attracts foodies from all over the world. However, when it comes to prices, Lisbon tends to be more affordable.
In Lisbon, you can enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant for around €10-€15. Street food and snacks are also cheap with options like pastel de nata (custard tart) costing only €1 or less.
In Madrid, meals at local restaurants start at around €15-€20. However, tapas bars and street food stalls offer affordable options starting at around €2-€3.
When it comes to drinks, both cities offer affordable options for beer and wine with prices ranging from €1-€3 depending on where you go.
Transportation
Getting around in both cities is relatively cheap and easy thanks to their extensive public transportation systems.
In Lisbon, you can use the metro, trams, buses or trains with a single ticket costing just €1.50. There are also day passes and rechargeable cards available for frequent travelers.
In Madrid, a single metro ticket costs €1.50 as well, but there are also other options such as day passes and tourist cards that offer discounts on transportation and attractions.
Attractions
Both Lisbon and Madrid have a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and entertainment. However, admission fees can add up quickly if you plan on visiting several attractions.
In Lisbon, popular attractions like the Jeronimos Monastery or the Belem Tower cost around €10-€12 per person. Museums and galleries typically charge between €5-€10 per person.
In Madrid, admission fees for popular attractions like the Prado Museum or the Royal Palace of Madrid can cost around €15-€20 per person. However, there are also many free attractions such as parks and plazas that you can enjoy without spending a dime.
Conclusion
Overall, both Lisbon and Madrid are affordable destinations that offer great value for money. However, when it comes to accommodation and food prices, Lisbon tends to be slightly cheaper than Madrid.
On the other hand, Madrid’s transportation system is more extensive and efficient than Lisbon’s. Ultimately, your choice between these two cities will depend on your personal preferences and travel budget.