Portugal Travel Guide
Nestled along the sun-drenched Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is home to historic cities and photogenic towns, rolling hills covered with vines and cork trees, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Start your journey in Lisbon, wandering the narrow streets in Alfama, visiting the iconic Belรฉm Tower, and day tripping to the fairytale land of Sintra. Then, venture north to Porto and the Douro Valley, sipping on wine and port. And not to be missed is the Algarve, a dramatic coastline with golden beaches and sea caves to explore. Throughout Portugal, there are also small towns to visit, castles to tour, and hidden gems to uncover.
Whether you are drawn to the large, bustling cities, the smaller medieval towns, the wine regions, or Portugalโs picturesque coastlines, there is something here for everyone.
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13 Thrilling Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal (2025 Guide)
Sintra is a land of fairytale palaces, historic estates, and stunning coastlines. Pena Palace and the Initiation Well in Quinta da Regaleira may be Sintraโs most famous attractions, but you can also walk the walls of an ancient Moorish castle, tour the oldest palace in Portugal, and visit the westernmost point of continental Europe. In […]
Algarve Itinerary: Plan a Dream Trip to the Algarve, Portugal
Discover the charm of the Algarve by visiting its stunning golden beaches, exploring the picturesque towns, taking boat tours of Benagil Cave and Ponta da Piedade, surfing, hiking, and dining in the regionโs finest restaurants. In this guide, we will show you how to combine the best of the region into an epic Algarve itinerary. […]
2 Days in Porto: Best Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
If you are planning your first trip to Porto, this Porto itinerary is perfect for you. With 2 days in Porto, you have just enough time to see the highlights of this incredible city. Enjoy the views from the Dom Luรญs I Bridge and Torre dos Clรฉrigos, go port tasting at the wine cellars in […]
2 Days in Lisbon: How to Plan the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
Stroll through the Alfama and Bairro Alto neighborhoods, tour the amazing Jerรณnimos Monastery, photograph historic tram 28, dine on Portuguese cuisine, and enjoy the view from a long list of breathtaking viewpoints. With 2 days in Lisbon, you even have enough time to day trip to Sintra. In this guide, we lay out two different […]
Madeira Bucket List: 30 Best Things to Do in Madeira
Explore the old town of Funchal, watch the sunrise from one of Madeiraโs highest peaks, hike on coastal trails and alongside levadas, go whale watching, relax on the beach, go Madeira wine tasting, ride a cable car to the beach, and swim in a natural hot poolโฆthese all top the list of things to do […]
5 Epic Hikes in Madeira, Portugal (Ranked!)
Hiking in Madeira is one of the best ways to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, from its high peaks to its coastal cliffs. The island offers plenty of options for any type of hiker, from steep mountain climbs to flat waterfall trails. Here are 5 of the best hikes in Madeira, our favorites on the […]
Best of Portugal
Portugal Bucket List: 25 Best Things to Do in Portugal
Explore the palaces in Sintra, taste port wine in Porto and the Douro Valley, go beach hopping along the Algarve, walk the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, and visit the Azores and Madeiraโฆthese all top the list of things to do in Portugal.
Get the full list in our Portugal Bucket List.
Seven Wonders of Portugal: The Ultimate Guide
The Seven Wonders of Portugal are a small collection of Portugalโs most important historical sites. These range from ancient castles to historic monasteries to colorful palaces. Some you may have heard of, such as Pena Palace and Belรฉm Tower, but others may seem more obscure. They are all worth a visit on a trip through […]
20 Foods to Eat in Portugal and Where to Find Them
What should you eat while in Portugal? Since Portuguese culture is deeply intertwined with food, the answer to this question is just as important as what you should see and do while in Portugal. Dining on salted cod, port wine tasting in Porto and the Douro Valley, indulging on Pastel de Nata pastries and the […]
15 Must-See Castles in Portugal (Ranked!)
Medieval castles dot the landscapes of Portugal. Many of these hilltop garrisons were originally built by the Romans and the Moors, and then further fortified by the Christians and Templar Knights in the Middle Ages. While touring the castles in Portugal, not only will you take a step back in time, but you will also […]
Portugal Itineraries
10 Day Portugal Itinerary: 5 Amazing Ideas for Your Trip to Portugal
If you have 10 days in Portugal, we have five great ideas for how you can spend your time. Spend 10 days visiting Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, a classic trip for first-timers. Or, take your pick from itineraries that include other great destinations, such as the Douro Valley, รbidos, and Monsanto.
10 Days in Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve
For first timers to Portugal, Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve typically top the โmust-see list.โ With 10 days in Portugal, you have enough time to visit these three places and add on a day trip to Sintra. This itinerary can be done using public transportation or by rental car.
Two Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: With & Without a Car
Spend a few days seeing the sights in Lisbon, day trip to Sintra to visit Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, taste port wine in Porto, visit the wineries in the Douro Valley, explore a few of Portugalโs charming towns, and end with some beach time in the Algarve. This two week Portugal itinerary can be done with public transportation or with a rental car.
14 Day Southern Spain & Portugal Itinerary: Andalusia & the Algarve
Explore Andalusia, Spain and the Algarve of Portugal. Start in Seville, a sun-drenched city famous for its cathedral, historic old town, and Plaza de Espaรฑa. From here, tour a few famous Andalusian cities, visiting the Mosque-Cathedral in Cรณrdoba, touring the Alhambra in Granada, and photographing Rondaโs bridges and canyon. End with a few days in the Algarve, Portugal and then complete the loop by returning to Seville.
Lisbon
Lisbon is the largest city and the capital of Portugal. Built on seven hills, visit the historic neighborhoods, the famous landmarks such as Jerรณnimos Monastery and Belรฉm Tower, and Sรฃo Jorge Castle. Lisbon also makes the perfect home base to day trip to several nearby destinations, such as Sintra and Cascais.
Lisbon Bucket List: 40 Amazing Things to Do in Lisbon
Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal and a popular starting and/or ending point for many visitors to this country. The list of things to do in Lisbon is very long, with historic landmarks to visit, colorful neighborhoods to explore, and quite a few places to indulge on Portuguese delicacies. We have visited Lisbon multiple […]
14 Easy Day Trips from Lisbon (+ Exactly How to Plan Them)
Lisbon is not only filled with some of Portugalโs most iconic sights, but it also makes a fantastic home base for exploring the nearby towns and beaches. There is a long list of day trips from Lisbon, from quick visits to coastal towns to full day excursions to Sintra, Nazarรฉ, and รbidos. In this guide, […]
Where to Stay in Lisbon 2025: How to Pick the Best Area & Hotel
When deciding where to stay in Lisbon, there are several factors to considerโฆnot only the cost of the hotel, but its location and its amenities will have a big impact on your overall experience in Lisbon. We have visited Lisbon twice, staying in two different neighborhoods in the city. Where you choose to stay can […]
One Day in Lisbon, Portugal: 2 Detailed Itineraries
With its historic neighborhoods, breathtaking viewpoints, famous landmarks such as Sรฃo Jorge Castle and Belรฉm Tower, and fantastic cuisine, Lisbon is filled with unforgettable experiences. And with so much to do, there are multiple ways to spend one day in Lisbon. Will you visit Belรฉm and tour the amazing Jerรณnimos Monastery and see Belรฉm Tower, […]
2 Days in Lisbon: How to Plan the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
Stroll through the Alfama and Bairro Alto neighborhoods, tour the amazing Jerรณnimos Monastery, photograph historic tram 28, dine on Portuguese cuisine, and enjoy the view from a long list of breathtaking viewpoints. With 2 days in Lisbon, you even have enough time to day trip to Sintra. In this guide, we lay out two different […]
3 Days in Lisbon: Best of Lisbon for First Time Visitors
3 days in Lisbon is the perfect amount of time to visit this cityโs must-see attractions, visit a few hidden gems, dine at its best restaurants, and even day trip to some incredible nearby destinations. There are several different ways to spend 3 days in Lisbon. You can spend all three days in Lisbon and […]
Where to Eat in Lisbon: Best Restaurants, Cheap Eats & Food Tours
Where should you eat in Lisbon? With its outdoor cafes, food halls, pastry shops, rooftop bars, and famous seafood restaurants, your choices may seem overwhelming. In this guide, we list some of the top restaurants in Lisbon. Ranging from quick, cheap eats to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something here for everyone. This is by no […]
Sintra & Cascais
Both Sintra and Cascais are located near Lisbon, making them fantastic day trip destinations from Lisbon or a nice place to stay, if you prefer smaller towns over busy cities.
Sintra is a land of fairytale palaces, with Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Palace of Monserrate being must-sees. Cascais is a small coastal town that is home to several picturesque beaches and a charming historic city center. You can also visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe and the small towns and beaches that dot the nearby coastline.
13 Thrilling Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal (2025 Guide)
Sintra is a land of fairytale palaces, historic estates, and stunning coastlines. Pena Palace and the Initiation Well in Quinta da Regaleira may be Sintraโs most famous attractions, but you can also walk the walls of an ancient Moorish castle, tour the oldest palace in Portugal, and visit the westernmost point of continental Europe. In […]
Cascais, Portugal: Best Things to Do & Day Trip Ideas
Cascais is a small coastal town that sits near Lisbon, Portugal. Relaxing on the beach and strolling through the lovely city center tops the list of things to do in Cascais, but there are also a few museums you can add to the list. Many people visit Cascais on a day trip from Lisbon, but […]
Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon: 3 Ways to Spend One Day in Sintra
Tucked away in the mountains outside of Lisbon sits the lovely town of Sintra. This town is the gateway for exploring several of Portugalโs most famous palaces, castles, and museums. On a Sintra day trip from Lisbon, visit Pena Palace, stroll through the gardens at Quinta da Regaleira, walk the walls at the Castle of […]
Central Portugal
Central Portugal is a large area that covers the midsection of Portugal, from the Atlantic Ocean to the border with Spain. Visit the coastal towns of Nazarรฉ and Aveiro, drive to the top of Serra da Estrela (the tallest mountain in continental Portugal), and visit the charming cities and towns of รbidos, Fรกtima, Tomar, Monsanto, Sortelha, and Coimbra.
14 Things to Do in Nazarรฉ, Portugal: Big Waves & Beach Caves
Nazarรฉ is a small fishing town surrounded by a long stretch of sandy beaches. This city has a long, rich history, but in recent years it is growing in popularity because of its enormous waves. During the winter months, the largest surfable waves in the world crash on Nazarรฉโs shore, making this a surfing mecca. […]
15 Wonderful Things to Do in รbidos, Portugal
Stroll the picturesque streets, walk the castle walls, and drink ginja in a chocolate cup โฆthese are all things to do in รbidos, Portugal. If you have been to Tuscany, Italy, a visit to รbidos will feel very much like exploring one of Italyโs smaller hill towns, such as Montepulciano or San Gimignano. รbidos is […]
Aveiro: Best Things to Do in the โVenice of Portugalโ
Aveiro is a small coastal city in central Portugal. It is known as โthe Portuguese Veniceโ for its canals and waterways, similar to those in Venice, Italy. The top experiences in Aveiro include taking a boat tour through the canals, strolling through the city center, indulging in local pastries, and venturing beyond the city center […]
Coimbra, Portugal: Top Things to Do + Walking Tour of the City
Coimbra is one of the largest cities in Portugal and it is famous for its university, its churches, and ancient Roman buildings. Visiting the University of Coimbra is the top experience to have here, but touring the churches, the botanical garden, and seeing the Roman aqueduct all make the list of things to do in […]
Monsanto, Portugal: Things to Do, Photos & Helpful Tips
Perched on a hilltop, overlooking the rolling hills of eastern Portugal, sits Monsanto. This tiny town is famous for its colossal boulders. Stone houses are sandwiched between and under these boulders, making this one of the most unique villages to visit in Europe. Strolling these picturesque streets is a popular thing to do but walking […]
Northern Portugal
Porto, a city famous for its port wine, is the largest city in northern Portugal. From Porto, day trip to nearby Guimarรฃes and Braga, and climb the historic steps of Bom Jesus do Monte. Venture east into the stunning Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must for wine aficionados. Finally, explore the mountainous Peneda-Gerรชs National Park, which sits on the northern border of Portugal with Spain.
14 Wonderful Things to Do in Guimarรฃes, Portugal
Guimarรฃes is a small town located in northern Portugal, not far from Porto and Braga. This town is famous for its historic city center, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Touring the palace, strolling the picturesque streets, and riding the gondola to Penha Park top the list of things to do in […]
2 Days in Porto: Best Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
If you are planning your first trip to Porto, this Porto itinerary is perfect for you. With 2 days in Porto, you have just enough time to see the highlights of this incredible city. Enjoy the views from the Dom Luรญs I Bridge and Torre dos Clรฉrigos, go port tasting at the wine cellars in […]
3 Days in Porto Itinerary: Plan an Amazing Trip to Porto
Try port wine at the wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia, stroll along the Douro River, try Portoโs decadent street foods, visit the most beautiful bookstore in the world, enjoy the view from the Dom Luis I Bridge, and day trip to the Douro Valley, Braga, or Guimarรฃes, or Aveiroโฆthese are all things you […]
8 Wineries to Visit in the Douro Valley, Portugal
Sipping on wine and port while overlooking the Douro River is the #1 thing to do on a visit to the Douro Valley. In this guide, we list 8 wineries to visit in the Douro Valley. We spent four memorable days in the Douro Valley, using this time to visit a few wineries, indulge in […]
Douro Valley Day Trip from Porto: By Tour and Self-Guided
Taking a Douro Valley day trip from Porto is one of the most popular ways visit the Douro wine region. The Douro Valley sits to the east of Porto and it takes roughly an hour and a half to get here. This historic wine region produces port wine and table wines. With its terraced hillsides […]
How to Plan Your First Trip to Porto: Where to Stay, Eat & Play
The city of Porto is renowned for its UNESCO-listed historic center, azulejo-adorned churches, and colorful pedestrian streets and promenades. On a visit to Porto, you can explore this cityโs historical and cultural treasures, immerse yourself in the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, or sample savory Portuguese dishes (or do all three!). If […]
How to Visit the Douro Valley: Things to Do, Itinerary & Where to Stay
The Douro Valley is the oldest wine region in the world. Located in northern Portugal, it can be visited on a day trip from Porto or you can plan a longer stay here. We spent four wonderful days in the Douro Valley. Touring wine regions around the world is now one of our favorite travel […]
One Day in Porto: Best of Porto in 24 Hours
If you have one day in Porto, there are a few ways you can plan your time. When deciding what to do, the biggest question to answer is would you rather spend your time visiting Portoโs historical sights, tasting port in the wine cellars in Gaia, or simply strolling through the city center and along […]
Porto Bucket List: 30 Amazing Things to Do in Porto, Portugal
Stroll along the Douro River, go port tasting at the wine cellars in Gaia, visit the most beautiful bookstore in the world, and watch the sunset from the Dom Luรญs I Bridge. These all top the list of the best things to do in Porto, but there are also beautiful churches to visit, new foods […]
Things to Do in Braga & Bom Jesus do Monte: Tips for Your First Visit
Visit the oldest cathedral in Portugal, climb the steps of Bom Jesus do Monte, stroll along the pedestrian streets and through colorful gardens, and take a photo with the brilliantly blue Braga signโฆthese are all things to do in Braga, Portugal. Braga makes a great day trip destination from Porto and can easily be combined […]
Wine Cellars in Porto: Port Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
One of the best things to do in Porto is to taste port wine. Located across the Douro River from Porto, in an area called Vila Nova de Gaia (or simply Gaia), sit the wine cellars where port wine is stored and aged. In this guide, we list the best wine cellars in Porto to […]
Alentejo
Alentejo is a large area of Portugal that sits to the south of Central Portugal and to the north of the Algarve. รvora is the largest city here and this region is one of the best places to see cork trees in Portugal.
How to Plan a Trip to รvora, Portugal (& Is It Worth It?)
รvora is a small city located in Alentejo, Portugal, about an hour from Lisbon. Filled with historic charm, this city is famous for its Roman Temple, well-preserved city center, and amazing Chapel of Bones.
Algarve
The Algarve is the southernmost portion of continental Europe. Famous for its golden beaches, stunning cliffs, and sea caves, this is one of the most beautiful areas of Portugal to visit. Walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, marvel at Benagil Cave, dine on seafood fresh from the ocean, and relax on some of the most picturesque beaches in Europe.
Algar Seco: Best Photo Spots, Things to Do, & HELPFUL Tips
Algar Seco is a wonderland of tunnels, grottos, caves, cliffs, and windows to the sea. Itโs one of the most photographed places in the Algarve, with its two cave openings and views of the Atlantic Ocean. However, there is more to do at Algar Seco than photograph this picturesque cave. You can also walk down […]
Algarve Bucket List: 20 Epic Things to Do in the Algarve, Portugal
Marvel at Benagil Cave, walk the breathtaking Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, dine on seafood fresh from the ocean, explore charming fishing villages, explore the coastline by boat, and relax on some of the most picturesque beaches in Europeโฆthese all make the best things to do in the Algarve list. The Algarve is one of the […]
Algarve Itinerary: Plan a Dream Trip to the Algarve, Portugal
Discover the charm of the Algarve by visiting its stunning golden beaches, exploring the picturesque towns, taking boat tours of Benagil Cave and Ponta da Piedade, surfing, hiking, and dining in the regionโs finest restaurants. In this guide, we will show you how to combine the best of the region into an epic Algarve itinerary. […]
Benagil Cave in 2025: New Rules, Best Tours, Photos & HELPFUL Tips
Benagil Cave is one of the most popular places to visit in the Algarve, Portugal. This large sea cave, with its skylight and multiple cave entrances, is a gorgeous place to visit. It attracts huge crowds and its popularity is creating challenges for those who want to visit this cave. In 2023, the rules on […]
Best Albufeira Restaurants: Cheap Eats, Fine Dining, Tapas & Wine
Many people travel to Albufeira to visit its gorgeous beaches, enjoy the nightlife, and stay in one of its many resorts, but Albufeira is also home to quite a few great restaurants. In fact, one of the best things to do in Albufeira is to eat. From cheap eats to authentic Portuguese food to vegan […]
Best Beaches in Algarve: 10 Stunning Beaches You Can’t Miss
Located along the southern coast of Portugal, the Algarve boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Europe. From hidden coves and grottoes to long stretches of shoreline, each of these gems offers a unique experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of this part of Portugal. Join us as we […]
Exactly How to Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Stretching along the coastline of the Algarve is one of the most beautiful walks in Portugal, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. On this hike, you will gaze across some of the most picturesque beaches in Europe, peer into Benagil Cave, and be treated to an endless number of jaw-dropping views of the Algarve. This hike […]
Visiting Ponta da Piedade: By Land & By Sea (Detailed 2025 Guide)
Ponta da Piedade is one of the top places to visit in the Algarve, Portugal. This rocky point, with its sea pillars, arches, and small but incredibly picturesque beaches can be explored both on land and by boat. A network of boardwalk trails runs from Praia Dona Ana to the tip of Ponta da Piedade. […]
Visiting the Algarve in October: Weather & What to Expect
When is the best time to visit the Algarve? If you want sunny skies, warm temperatures, warm water, and relatively low crowds, October is a fantastic time to visit the Algarve. We spent 9 days in the Algarve in early to mid-October. With warm weather and brilliantly sunny days throughout our visit, the weather was […]
Where to Stay in the Algarve 2025: Ultimate Hotel Guide
Trying to decide where to stay in the Algarve, Portugal? Most likely, you have a lot of questions running through your head. Where are the best locations in the Algarve? How much does it cost to stay in Algarve? How far in advance should I make my reservation? Will I need a car? We answer […]
Madeira
Madeira is an archipelago that is located off the coast of Morocco. With its mountainous interior, dramatic coastlines, coastal and mountain hiking trails, natural swimming pools, quaint towns, botanical gardens, seafood restaurants, resorts, and wine tasting, there is something here for everyone.
20 Unique Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira: Monte & the Old Town
Steeped in history and full of charm, Funchal is the capital city of Madeira, Portugal. Exploring the picturesque old town, visiting the cityโs historic monuments, riding the cable car to Monte to explore the botanical gardens, and wine tasting all make the list of the best things to do in Funchal. And donโt miss the […]
5 Epic Hikes in Madeira, Portugal (Ranked!)
Hiking in Madeira is one of the best ways to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, from its high peaks to its coastal cliffs. The island offers plenty of options for any type of hiker, from steep mountain climbs to flat waterfall trails. Here are 5 of the best hikes in Madeira, our favorites on the […]
Exactly How to Hike Levada do Caldeirรฃo Verde (PR9) | Madeira, Portugal
Looking for one of the most relaxing hikes in Madeira, but still want some adventure? On the Levada do Caldeirรฃo Verde hike, experience a calm forest walk, weave through narrow tunnels, and picnic in front of a spectacular waterfall. Thereโs almost no elevation gain too, so the this is the perfect hike for a lighter […]
Exactly How to Hike Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (PR1) | Madeiraโs #1 Hike
The PR1 trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is Madeiraโs most popular and thrilling hike. Enjoy the beautiful golden sunrise rising over the island, and then traverse from Madeiraโs third highest peak, Pico do Arieiro, to its highest peak, Pico Ruivo. The trail features narrow pathways rising above a steep valley, offering glimpses […]
First Trip to Madeira: 14 Things to Know Before You Go
If you are planning your first trip to Madeira, there are several very important things to know before you go. Madeira is a very popular tourist destination and with that, crowds can be huge. Driving around the island can be challenging, parking can be almost impossible at some sites, and where you choose to stay […]
Levada das 25 Fontes & Levada do Risco (PR6/PR6.1) | The Ultimate Guide
Visitors to Madeira often claim that Levada das 25 Fontes – Levada do Risco is one of the best hikes in Madeira. With a hike down to a secluded waterfall pool deep within a lush forest, as well as the option to add-on a visit to one of the tallest waterfalls in Madeira, whatโs not […]
Madeira Bucket List: 30 Best Things to Do in Madeira
Explore the old town of Funchal, watch the sunrise from one of Madeiraโs highest peaks, hike on coastal trails and alongside levadas, go whale watching, relax on the beach, go Madeira wine tasting, ride a cable car to the beach, and swim in a natural hot poolโฆthese all top the list of things to do […]
Madeira Itinerary: How to Plan a Dream Trip to Madeira, Portugal
Madeira blends together all of the ingredients for a perfect holiday: scenic drives, dramatic coastal viewpoints, thrilling hiking trails, lovely seaside towns to explore, food and wine tastings, beach time, spa time, and of course, beautiful places to simply relax and soak up the sights. If you are planning your Madeira itinerary, there are multiple […]
Vereda da Ponta de Sรฃo Lourenรงo (PR8) | Step-By-Step Trail Guide
A visit to Madeira would be incomplete without hiking the Vereda da Ponta de Sรฃo Lourenรงo (PR8). Known as one of the best trails in Madeira, you will walk along the rugged coast and marvel at the dramatic cliffs. The highlight is the view from the final climb, where hikers stand atop the highest point […]
Vereda do Larano to Boca do Risco | An Underrated Hike in Madeira
Looking for a beautiful hike and an escape from the crowds? This off-the-beaten-path hike follows along Madeiraโs northeastern cliffside, offering views over the dramatic cliffs and the blue ocean far below. With a mostly flat and forested trail with hardly anyone in sight, Vereda do Larano is a serene escape from the island’s main tourist […]
Where to Stay in Madeira 2025: The Ultimate Hotel Guide
When deciding where to stay in Madeira, there are a few things to consider. The location of where you stay in Madeira is very important, if not the most important factor to consider, as this dictates how much driving you will do, and whether or not you need to rent a car, so this can […]
Top Experiences in Portugal
Lisbon. Explore the largest city in Portugal. Visit Belรฉm Tower and Jerรณnimos Monastery, wander the streets of Alfama and Bairro Alto, photograph the city from its elevated viewpoints, and ride or photograph historic tram 28.
Sintra. Sintra is the place to go to explore whimsical castles and palaces, with Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, the National Palace of Sintra, the Castle of the Moors, and the Palace of Monserrate topping the list. You can also visit Cabo da Roca and few stunning beaches.
Porto. Famous for its port wine production, Porto is a gorgeous city in northern Portugal. Go port tasting in Gaia, stroll across Dom Luis I Bridge, visit the most beautiful bookstore in the world, and try Portoโs local foods.
Douro Valley. This terraced region is where port wine originates. The Douro Valley can be visited on a day trip from Porto, but wine lovers should plan a few days and nights here, to immerse yourself in this stunning region of Portugal.
Algarve. The Algarve makes up the southernmost portion of mainland Portugal and it is famous for its beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs and pillars, and sea caves. Beach lovers can easily spend a week here and never run out of things to do.
รbidos. This walled, hilltop town is a joy to explore and looks and feels very much like a hill town in Tuscany, Italy.
Nazarรฉ. Famous for its monstrous waves, Nazare is one of the worldโs top surfing locations. The best time to visit is November through March, when the largest waves make an appearance.
Coimbra. This city is famous for its university, the oldest academic institution in the Portuguese-speaking world.
Guimarรฃes. This lovely town, with its charming historic city center, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located near Porto.
Braga. In Braga, visit the oldest cathedral in Portugal and climb the steps of Bom Jesus do Monte. Like Guimaraes, it is located near Porto.
Monsanto. This is another hilltop village in Portugal. In Monsanto, stone houses are sandwiched between and under colossal boulders, making this one of the most unique villages to visit in Europe.
รvora. Located in Alentejo, this small city is dotted with ancient historic buildings, including a Roman temple, making it another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Portugal.
Castles of Portugal.ย One of the best things to do in Portugal is to explore its long list of castles, which can be found in the countryโs largest cities, dotting the hillsides of eastern Portugal, and dotting the coastlines.
Fรกtima. Fรกtima is an important pilgrimage site in Portugal. Between May 13 and October 13, 1917, three children reported seeing apparitions of the Virgin Mary. The Chapel of Apparitions stands on the place where this occurred. Also in Fรกtima are the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity.
Batalha Monastery. This Dominican convent was constructed between 1386 and 1517, in commemoration of the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota. It later became a burial church for Portuguese royalty. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
Alcobaรงa Monastery. The Alcobaรงa Monastery is a Gothic monastery that was built by monks of the Cistercian Order in 1178. It is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
Azores. The Azores are an archipelago that sit in the Atlantic Ocean. Hiking, whale watching, relaxing in thermal pools, swimming, snorkeling, and surfing all top the list of things to do here. The Azores are still on our bucket list.
Madeira. Sitting off the coast of Morocco, this archipelago is famous for its Madeira wine, forests, and wildlife. It is a year-round destination, staying warm through the winter months.
How Many Days Do You Need in Portugal?
At a bare minimum, plan on spending seven days in Portugal. This gives you enough time to visit one or two cities and do a day trip or two. Or, spend the entire week relaxing in the Algarve.
The more time you can add, the more places you can visit. On aย 10-day trip to Portugal,ย visit Lisbon and Porto, with the option to explore the Douro Valley, a few towns or historic landmarks in Central Portugal, or tack a few days on in the Algarve.
Those with two weeks have enough time to quickly explore mainland Portugal from top to bottom or slow things down, immersing yourself in one region of this beautiful country.
If Madeira is on your list, we recommend 7 to 10 days here. And for the Azores, 10 to 14 days gives you just enough time to visit several islands.
Best Time to Visit Portugal
Portugal is a year-round destination.
Summer is the busiest time to be here. Expect hot temperatures, big crowds, and the most expensive prices for flights, hotels, and rental cars.
The best time to visit Portugal is in the spring and fall (late April into early June and mid-September through October), as temperatures are pleasant and crowds are lower than during peak season. We visited Portugal from early September through mid-October and had a fantastic experience and really enjoyed being in Portugal in October.
Winter can be chilly with increased clouds and rain chances. However, compared to much of Europe, this is one of the warmest places to visit. Tourism in the winter is increasing in Portugal, particularly for those who want to explore a portion of Europe without dealing with snow and freezing temperatures.
Europe Travel Inspiration & Practical Info
30 Popular Tourist Attractions in Europe & How to Visit Them
From world class museums and ancient archaeological sites to stunning natural wonders, Europe boasts a diverse array of attractions that attract millions of visitors every year. Here are 30 of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe and how to visit them.
One Week in Europe: 25 Epic Itineraries
Do you dream of visiting world-class cities like Paris, Barcelona, or Venice? Or would you rather hike the Alps, go on a scenic train ride, explore the beautiful beaches and coastal towns in southern Europe, visit fairytale towns and castles, island hop in Greece, or go on an unforgettable road trip in northern Europe?
In this article we list 25 ways to spend one week in Europe.
10 Days in Europe: 10 Amazing Itineraries for Your Next Trip
Europe is a joy to explore. With world-class cities, medieval towns, historical sites, the snowcapped Alps, gorgeous beaches, and some of the worldโs most delicious food, you have the perfect ingredients for your next vacation. If you want to spend 10 days in Europe, we have ten amazing itineraries to share with you. In this […]
15 Things You Should Know about Renting a Car in Europe
Having a car provides a lot of freedom and convenience when traveling through Europe. You can travel at your own pace, stop frequently to take in the view, and get to some places that are difficult to reach with public transportation. However, there are some things to know about renting a car in Europe. Knowing […]
30 Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe (+ Map and Photos)
It is no secret that Europe is filled with beautiful places to visit. With its grand cities, fairytale-like towns, soaring mountain ranges, and gorgeous beaches, there is a seemingly endless list of gorgeous places to explore. Whether you are planning your next trip to Europe, or just trying to figure out where to travel to […]
7 Things to Know When Planning Your First Trip to Europe
If you are planning your first trip to Europe, it can be an overwhelming experience. Where should you go? How much will it cost? How many places can you visit? Does this sound familiar? We get emails every day from people who want advice planning their first trip to Europe. And we see the same […]
Best Hikes in Europe: Our 20 Favorite Day Hikes
Europe is one of our favorite places to go hiking. Thereโs no better way to explore the dramatic and varied landscapes here, from the snow-capped Alps to coastal trails to the remote, volcanic interior of Iceland. In this guide we list 20 of the best hikes in Europe, 20 amazing ways to explore this beautiful […]
Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In Our Camera Bag
Do you want to know how we capture the images that you see on our website? Here is our photography gear guide, with links and explanations of our photography gear and accessories. At the end of this post, we offer tips and tricks on how to take better photographs while traveling. Photography Gear Guide The […]
