Are credit cards accepted everywhere?

Big cities accept cards, but many small cafes and 'tascas' are cash-only. Always carry at least 20 EUR in coins and small bills.

Is the Lisbon Card worth it?

Only if you plan to visit 3+ paid museums in a single day. Otherwise, you'll save more money by paying for individual trips on your Viva Viagem card.

How to travel Portugal on a budget

To travel Portugal cheaply, stick to local 'prato do dia' lunch specials, use the Rede Expressos bus network for city-to-city travel instead of trains, and book your hostels or guesthouses at least 6 weeks in advance. Budget 60 USD per day to cover a bed in a shared dorm, two supermarket meals, one restaurant meal, and public transit.

Master the 'Prato do Dia'. Avoid dinner menus. Most local restaurants offer a 'prato do dia' (dish of the day) at lunch for 8-12 USD, which includes a main, a drink, and often a coffee. This is your best value for a heavy meal.
Use buses over trains. Trains in Portugal are comfortable but expensive. Book your intercity travel through Rede Expressos or FlixBus at least 3 days ahead to secure fares as low as 5 USD between Lisbon and Porto.
Drink house wine and tap water. Bottled water is a waste of money; tap water is safe everywhere. At restaurants, 'vinho da casa' (house wine) is often cheaper than soda or juice, usually costing 3-5 USD for a carafe.
Visit free museums on Sundays. Many state-run museums and monuments in Lisbon and Porto offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Check individual websites for 'entrada gratuita' schedules.

Are credit cards accepted everywhere?: Big cities accept cards, but many small cafes and 'tascas' are cash-only. Always carry at least 20 EUR in coins and small bills.
Is the Lisbon Card worth it?: Only if you plan to visit 3+ paid museums in a single day. Otherwise, you'll save more money by paying for individual trips on your Viva Viagem card.