Under $100: Lisbon

The capital city of Portugal may be a place of former riches — especially during the golden period of discovery — but just because your budget is limited does not mean your experience has to be. Start your day in the coastal city with a traditional Portuguese breakfast of a pastry and coffee.

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The best way to see the hilly city is on foot. Break out your map and draw a walking plan that takes you through the unique neighborhoods of Barrio Alto (with shops, bars and colorful façades), and Baixa & Rossio (featuring stunning architecture and religious monuments). The thrifty, creatively named shops and smiling restaurant hosts add their own element of charm to these two central neighborhoods.

If your legs can’t quite handle the hills, hop on one of the exquisitely designed lifts for some of the best sights of the roving streets below. Both Elevator de Bica and Elevator de Gloria sell return tickets for approximately $4.

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Once you have embraced the geographical wonder that is Lisbon’s seven hills, rest your legs at one of the cafés that surround Praça Dom Pedro (or Rossio as it is known to Lisbon locals). Scour the backstreets for tascas that offer menus del dia for the lowest prices, or sample some of Portgual’s grilled meats and seafood at churraqueiras (grill restaurants). Top off your meal with a shot of Lisbon’s characteristic cherry liqueur, or ginjinha, for about $1.15.

Properly satiated, make your way toward Castelo de São Jorge where for €7.50, you can explore the castle and its grounds that date to the 11^th century. At noon and 4 p.m., join in on one of the free tours. If your legs can’t handle the steep-but-short climb to the castle, take Tram 28 for a scenic climb (about $4)..