best ways to travel portugal

30+ Portugal Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: July 20, 2023

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Take a single glance at Portugal and you’ll soon leap to the same conclusion as its millions of doting visitors: this is one of those destinations that seems to have it all.

From verdant valleys and golden beaches to fairytale castles and buzzy cities, visitors are swimming in choice as much as they are in sweet, custardy pastries.

But it’s not all custard tarts and photo opps. The truth is, Portugal often catches first time visitors off guard with random culture shocks, unexpected tourist traps and (sadly) even pickpockets and scams.

Luckily, I’ve learned all these the hard way (over 3 week-long trips) so you don’t have to.

So, from tactical tips for itinerary planning to assorted mistakes to avoid, here are my top Portugal travel tips and must knows for first time visitors. I hope you find them helpful!

Save this list of Portugal Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Go beyond the most famous Portuguese destinations

We’ll start with the basics: when planning your trip to Portugal, remember that there’s a lot to see beyond the coastal hotspots of Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.

Portugal is a (satisfyingly rectangular) country composed of 18 districts and two autonomous regions, with a myriad of places to visit beyond the most frequented, from its many historic cities up North (e.g. Braga, Guimares, Lamego) and inland (e.g. Coimbra, Evora, Elvas), to its spectacular nature in Peneda-Gerês National Park and on their many islands.

SO, all that to say, if time permits, definitely expand your itinerary beyond the most famous sights, because this will allow you to experience a bit more of the country, while dodging some of the popular areas’ notorious crowds at the same time.

2. Public transport is fine for city to city travel, but you’ll need a car for more remote areas

I’ve never rented a car in Portugal, and have found the public transport system to be simple and easy for getting from city to city.

But, truthfully, the most flexible way to get around and potentially explore off the beaten path is renting a car. Doing so will give you the best opportunities to control your own schedule, and find more remote areas like quieter nature spots or beaches (especially in the Algarve).

I did find the lack of car to be quite limiting when we wanted to get out to less popular areas, so if exploring more offbeat spots is a priority to you, then a car rental is something to consider.

This Portugal tip comes with a big disclaimer however: beware that driving in Portugal involves many tolls and a lot of close encounters with the country’s most notorious danger….. Portuguese drivers.

For a potential ‘in-between’ option then, I’d suggest looking into taxis/hiring a driver. I’ve found these services to be quite affordable in Portugal, with Uber being an especially easy option.

3. Consider flying in/out of different airports

In terms of arriving in Portugal, there are 3 international airports: Lisbon (LIS), Faro (FAO) and Porto (OPO).

And after personal experience at each of these airports, I have the following planning tip to offer: if you are visiting multiple destinations, consider booking flights into one city and then out of another (provided the price difference isn’t eye-gougingly painful).

This is because Portugal is small, but many of its most popular destinations aren’t that close together, so getting around does still take time, hence why you’d ideally want to avoid having to double back.

In the past, I’ve flown into Porto for instance and then spent 10 days going from there down to Lisbon, then down to Lagos in the Algarve and then departing via Faro Airport.

This made for a much smoother journey than going all the way back up to Porto, which meant more time spent soaking in views like these:

4. On a budget? Look into Europe’s low cost airlines

If you’re travelling Europe on a budget, then here’s a big Portugal travel tip: Portuguese airports are very well serviced by budget airlines like RyanAir and easyjet .

SO, if you’re planning a big Europe trip involving other countries, it may be worth looking into whether you can find cheaper flights into other European destinations, then flying into Portugal through a budget airline. This could potentially save you hundreds of euros!

You might want to check out my cheap flights to Europe guide for more.

5. Use the TAP Portugal Stopover to Save Money

Another potential money saver is looking into a TAP Portugal Stopover.

TAP Portugal is an airline that offers a really great deal where you can organize a free stopover in either Lisbon or Porto for up to ten nights en route to another destination.

So, if you plan properly, you can essentially get two destinations for the price of one!

NOTE: While this tip could potentially save you money, beware that TAP Portugal doesn’t have the best reputation, and is notorious for delays/other issues. One of my friends living in Portugal even told me that people say TAP stands for ‘Take Another Plane’ so be sure to keep these potential drawbacks in mind before booking.

6. Avoid visiting Portugal in July and August

Now as for when to visit Portugal, a good rule of thumb is to avoid July and August. I say this in my general Europe tips post for pretty much every destination.

This is when the crowds and heat are at their worst, with hyper inflated prices to match.

The same applies for major school holidays like Easter because Portugal is a very popular family vacation spot among Europeans.

Instead, aim to visit between May – June or September – October. I’ve been to Portugal before in both March and April and found it to be quite rainy both times, so shoulder season would be more ideal for dodging both crowds and biblical downpours.

7. Beware that there will still be crowds in shoulder season

On that note though, I don’t want you to underestimate how crowded it can get in Portugal, even in shoulder season.

Portugal may still be seen as an up and coming destination among North American travellers, but it has been a go-to vacation spot among Europeans for YEARS and years and years…

So don’t be surprised when there’s a lot of people around. Even in March. or April. Sadly, there’s no true ‘off-season’ in Portugal these days!

8. Book popular day trip destinations as overnight stays instead

Of course, in spite of the country’s frightening popularity, there are still ways to avoid crowds and outsmart your fellow tourists.

One of my top Portugal travel tips for this is booking popular day trip destinations as an overnight stay instead.

This will allow you to wake up really early to see the busiest sites before the day trip crowds arrive, and then enjoy them properly after they leave.

I did this for instance in Sintra, opting to stay for two nights instead of going as a day trip from Lisbon as most visitors do. The result? I was able to enjoy many of Sintra’s palaces without feeling like I was in a selfie stick mosh pit.

… So, I’d highly recommend doing popular day trips as overnight stays instead. Book early enough and sometimes accommodation in these areas is cheaper than in big cities!

9. Learn some Portuguese basics & have Google Translate handy

For first time visitors to Portugal, an immediate culture shock is often that English is not as widely spoken here as other tourist areas in Europe, especially among older residents.

And while getting with English is usually fine in larger cities, once you venture out into smaller towns, speaking no Portuguese can be a challenge… so I’d advise having Google Translate (one of my must-have Europe apps ) ready to go.

BUT more importantly: at the very least, you should learn how to say hello and thank you. So, memorize these! Tattoo them on your wrists:

• Hello is Olá, but it’s more common to greet according to the time of day so Bom Dia (Bong Dia) for good morning, Boa Tarde (Boa Tarht) for good afternoon and Boa Noite (Boa Noit) for good night
• Thank you in Portuguese is gendered, and the way you say it depends on if YOU are a man or woman. So men say Obrigado, women say Obrigada

10. Note that there’s differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese

Now, if you decide to go all-out and learn some Portuguese for your trip, it’s probably a good idea to make sure you’re learning European Portuguese pronunciation, as opposed to Brazilian Portuguese.

Like with most languages, Portuguese has various accents/dialects/variations, but I’ve heard the difference between European vs. Brazilian Portuguese can actually be quite stark, so to maximize your chances of being understood, try to make sure you’re learning European Portuguese.

One channel I came across that was great for this was Practice Portuguese, so give them a watch.

11. And… remember that Portuguese and Spanish aren’t the same

It feels silly that I have to say this, but I’ve anecdotally heard of many visitors busting out Spanish in Portugal, expecting to be understood.

Therefore let me clarify this most obvious Portugal travel tip: remember, in Portugal, they speak Portuguese, which may share some similarities with Spanish, but is an entirely different language of its own.

So keep in mind that while you may be somewhat understood, it’d be pretty rude to just randomly speak Spanish at people. So… let’s all just make a pact right now to not do that.

12. Learn to pronounce destination names in Portuguese

Apart from learning the basics in Portuguese, another important Portugal language tip is to learn how to properly pronounce your destinations in Portuguese.

This will save your life when it comes to asking for directions, because many places are pronounced differently to how they may be pronounced phonetically in English.

I found this video to be super helpful for this purpose.

13. Beware of ‘Portuguese Time’

Another cultural difference is to beware of Portuguese time.

Unlike in some central European countries like Germany , Austria or Switzerland, punctuality isn’t really a huge priority in Portugal, and things tend to be more laidback in terms of time.

As a tourist, this probably won’t impact you that much unless you’re making plans with Portuguese friends, but just know that time is definitely a bit more flexible there, and so if you have tours that start a bit later than planned, just don’t be too surprised.

14. Be prepared to walk uphill a LOT

Now onto another Portugal travel tip that pretty photos fail to convey: prepare yourself for the leg workout of your LIFE.

Portugal is overall an incredibly hilly country, so you’ll be encountering plenty of ups and downs during your visit, especially if you visit Lisbon and Porto.

The cobblestones are also very slippery, especially when it rains so make sure you have good, solid footwear. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

15. Consider attraction passes/cards to save money

If you plan to visit a lot of museums and paid attractions while you’re visiting Portugal, you should also look into attraction passes like the Lisbon Card and the Porto Card which offer you unlimited public transport and also admission to multiple attractions for one set price.

This can work out to a lot of savings, although to be honest, I’ve found many of the best things to do in these cities are free!

Especially if you’re not super into museums, this option may not be worth it, so just crunch the numbers and total up the price for your must-see attractions to see if the pass works out to be cheaper.

16. Beware of tourist traps

Okay, now it’s time for me to get a little controversial. I love Portugal as a destination, but I have to concede there are a lot of tourist traps (many of which are perpetuated by online guides/influencers) so I’m going to quickly share my opinion on some to be mindful of in the country’s most popular destinations:

Here are some tourist traps in Lisbon to keep in mind:

‘The Pink Street’: In real life, it’s just a street with restaurants and bars, and the pink isn’t nearly as perfect or vibrant as the photos make it look. It’s also usually crowded in the evenings… so don’t get your hopes up too much!

Tram 28: Super congested, super busy, lots of pickpockets, and you can enjoy the views much better if you just walk along the same route.

The Santa Justa Lift: Nice to look at, with great view from the top, but the lines are insanely long and you can easily walk up to the viewpoint for free and not have to wait in line. The best part of this attraction is really just seeing it and enjoying the view, so don’t think it’s a must do to actually ride it. 

Here are some tourist traps in Porto to keep in mind:

Libreria Lello: Initially got famous because it was claimed that JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter there or was inspired by it (a claim she has now publicly denied). It is of course still a very pretty bookshop but unless you get there first thing in the morning or just before they close, it will not be magical at all because it is painfully crowded and almost impossible to get these nice photos without people in them because the shop is small. There’s also a 5 euro voucher you have to purchase to get inside, which gives you 5 euros off a purchase, but it’s not free to go in to take a look.

Private Property Viewpoints: Unfortunately, irresponsible Instagrammers have made a habit of taking photos from areas that are private property, so many of the most sought after views in the city aren’t actually open to the public. So, make sure you do your research before you set out!

17. Look beyond social media to find unique hidden gems

So, on that note, it’s important to look beyond social media to find fun places to visit and cool activities in Portugal.

Most travel content about Portugal focuses on the same spots over and over, but the flip side of that is there are TONS of cool gems just everywhere that you can kind of discover along the way for yourself.

I would recommend doing research on Portuguese language blogs or check out local Portuguese bloggers to get an inside scoop on more offbeat places because there are so many, and I can’t wait to go back and see more for myself.

18. Seek out Miradouros everywhere you go

On that note, one really easy way to find beautiful places in Portugal is searching for Miradouros.

This is Portuguese for viewpoints and there are SO many of them especially in Lisbon.

So if you ever feel bored, just search Miradouro and go – guaranteed you’ll find a good view.

19. Beware that free museum days aren’t free for everyone

A lot of travel guides online have been perpetuating the Portugal travel tip that many museums are free on the first Sunday of each month in Portugal…

BUT it’s important to note that actually when you look at the fine print, many of these offers are only valid for residents of Portugal (e.g. here ) so keep that in mind and double check on official websites before you head out expecting your freebie.

20. Make sure you try Vinho Verde

Moving onto Portugal tips for food and drink – AKA the most delicious and valuable section.

My first recommendation is to try Vinho Verde or green wine. I know it sounds weird, but the ‘green’ part of the wine has less to do with the wine’s colour, and more with its age.

In short, Vinho Verde is a young drinkable wine that’s not aged, and often a little fizzy, making it THE most delicious and refreshing accompaniment for a sunny terrace. I warn you though: this is some dangerously drinkable stuff, and you’ll be swallowing it by the gallon throughout your trip.

21. And avoid ordering Port wine with your meal

On the topic of wine, if you find yourself wanting to try the famous Portuguese Port wine, know that it’s a very sweet dessert wine that is usually enjoyed on its own after a meal (though sometimes before) and not one you sip during your meal.

… So avoid pairing your dinner with Port. That’s not the best way to enjoy it!

22. Research regional specialties before you go

Food-wise, Portuguese cuisine is super hearty and delicious, with many regional specialties depending on where you are in Portugal so be sure to Google the particular must-tries of your destination.

Of course, I can’t resist sharing a few quintessential recommendations.

First off, if you’re by the coast, fresh seafood is abundant and delicious, especially Bacalhau or Codfish which is available in literally hundreds of ways, including Pastéis de Bacalhau which are deep fried balls of potato and cod. So good!

In Porto, one very gluttonous must-try is the incomparable Francesinha – a thick sandwich stuffed with all kinds of meat and cheese then topped with more melted cheese, a dreamy sauce and often a fried egg.

And, a specialty of Belem and Lisbon is the almighty Pastel de Nata. These are egg custard pastries that come in a crispy crust. They are absolutely incredible, and sure to be one of the highlights of your trip (and possibly life).

23. Consider ordering Petiscos to sample a variety of flavours

Not sure where to begin with Portugese cuisine? A great way to try a lot is by ordering Petiscos, which are small shareable bites similar to Tapas.

Of course, what is served as Petiscos can vary regionally as well, so be sure to do some research or ask for local recommendations, but overall, ordering a bunch can be a nice way to try a lot of different dishes and it can also be a more affordable alternative to getting full main dishes as well. 

24. Prepare for late meal times

In terms of dining out, there are a few things you should know. First off – mealtimes in Portugal may be later than you’re used to.

It’s not uncommon for dinner time to be around 8 or 9pm or even later. Meals often last longer here too, taking several hours, so don’t feel any need to rush. Remember, Portuguese time is relaaaaaxed and fluid.

25. Do not expect continual service in restaurants

Another Portugal must-know is you should not expect continual service in restaurants here.

Often smaller local restaurants (or their kitchens) will be closed in the late afternoon to early evening, so from 2 or 3pm until 7pm, during which they only have some snack items or might not be open at all.

In larger cities, you’ll probably still find some places open but often these will be the ones that cater more to tourists.

So, keep these timings in mind so you can manage your hanger accordingly.

26. Learn how to spot tourist trap restaurants in Portugal

Speaking of restaurants that cater to tourists, there are a few easy ways to spot touristy restaurants in Portugal.

The first is if they’re in a particularly touristy area near a big attraction, you can probably expect prices to at least be a bit higher, and the value for money to be worse. A huge red flag is any place where there’s a host actively trying to get you to eat at their restaurant, as well as places with huge pictures or where the menu is a bunch of languages. 

Often you can escape these by just walking a few blocks away from the main sights so be sure to look around a bit before committing.

Or if you want to enjoy the atmosphere because sometimes these touristy restaurants do have some great views and locations, just pop in for a drink, rather than a full meal. 

27. Know that your table snacks will probably cost extra

Another important Portugal must-know is that often when you arrive at a restaurant, there will be snacks like olives or bread put on the table.

To the surprise of many first time visitors, these aren’t actually included and come at an extra cost, known as “Couvert”, which is usually 1-2 euros per person.

Just know this isn’t a scam, it’s just a cultural difference in the way they charge for things so keep that in mind if you’re eating at a restaurant, and feel free to say ‘no thank you’ if you don’t want any, and you will not be charged for them. The price of the Couvert is also usually listed on the menu, so you can double check the cost before committing.

28. Learn Portuguese tipping etiquette

Tips aren’t expected in Portugal to the same extent as in North America, but if you want to, usually rounding up or doing 10 percent is fine.

29. Bring cash (in smaller denominations)

Another important Portugal must-know once you arrive is that you should make sure you have cash on you.

While many places are taking card now, paying with cash is still the norm in Portugal, especially with smaller bills. The smaller the denominations you can get the better, because I’ve found that smaller places like cafes don’t like to break large bills. Ideally, keep to ten euro bills or below.

30. Don’t carry too much cash at once

That said, do not bring too much cash out with you at once, especially in touristy and busy areas in Lisbon, because pickpockets can be a an issue.

I’ve only been pickpocketed twice in my life and Lisbon was one of them so I’m still a bit sore about that.

So, go by my rule of thumb, which is to not carry more cash than you can stand to lose.

31. Beware of sketchy dealers

Another scam to look out for is dealers offering to sell you ‘illicit substances’ when you’re just out and about, minding your own business on the street. 

This is of course mainly an issue in high-traffic tourist areas, as they always target silly tourists who don’t know better.

Here’s how it works: someone will come up to you and ask if you want something innocent like sunglasses, then they’ll follow up with whether or not you want said illicit substances. Apart from the fact that this already sounds sketchy, they’re also not selling real illicit substances, so no matter what, make sure the answer is no.

32. Be mindful of later opening times

Another thing to be mindful of when visiting Portugal is opening times.

(I’m talking of course about actual shops and restaurants, not those aforementioned dealers)

Overall, things run on a later schedule in Portugal relative to most of central Europe, so you can expect supermarkets to not open until 8am and close later as well, usually at 9 or 10pm.

33. Pack warmer layers no matter when you visit

Okay final Portugal packing tip for you, be sure to pack some warmer layers, even if you’re going in the summer because the wind in Portugal (particularly along the coast) is vicious .

No – seriously. My trauma can attest! Portuguese wind can be really biting, especially when temperatures drop at night, so having at least one warm layer in your suitcase is a must.

I hope this list of Portugal Travel Tips was helpful!

Congratulations on making it through the longest ever list of Portuguese travel tips. I admit this was already a VERY long list of tips for Portugal, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “30+ Portugal Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

Thank you! I enjoyed the common sense approach. This was very helpful.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

The Ultimate 10 Days in Portugal Itinerary

Planning a trip to Portugal and don’t know where to start? I have my ultimate 10 days in Portugal itinerary that I’ve put together. After my fourth trip to Portugal, I’ve absolutely fallen in love with this country.

I’ve take the very best of all of my trips, all my travel tips for Portugal , and have put them in a single place. There is so much to do in Portugal, from the city to the countryside. I think one of the best ways to experience Portugal is to spend a few days in the city and then get out to visit the greater region.

Now, while I’ve done Lisbon three separate times, I always find myself wanting to spend a bit more time exploring. While I love the city, Portugal has a lot to discover that is under 2 hours drive from the city. That’s what I love most about this Portugal itinerary. You don’t have to travel long distances to see a wide variety of places.

So I’ve pulled together all of my Portugal trips into a single, condensed itinerary to help plan your trip. Read on to find where to stay, how to plan your time, and all the tips. This is my ultimate 10 days in Portugal itinerary.

Short on Time? Here is the Ultimate Portugal Itinerary for 10 Days:

Stop 1: lisbon and nearby day trips — 4 nights.

• Hotel Das Amoreiras or Memmo Principe Real , for the best Principal Real hotels
• The Lumiares or Lisboa Pessoa Hotel , for the best Bairro Alto hotels
• Memmo Alfama , for the best Alfama hotel

Stop 2: Evora — 2 nights

• Octant Evora , for the best overall hotel

Stop 3: Comporta — 3 nights

• Sublime Comporta , for the best overall hotel

What to Know Before Choosing Your Itinerary

How Much Time is Really Needed to Visit Portugal?

This is the top question always asked — how much is needed? I always recommend a minimum of a single week for Portugal. 10 days is not enough but will give you the right amount of time to visit a few things slowly. Lisbon alone takes three full days to properly see, and even a few more if you do day trips.

What is the Best Way to See Portugal?

When it comes to Lisbon and closeby places, by foot or public transport. To see the greater regions of Portugal, you will need a rental car. I’ve rented cars all over Europe, and by far, Portugal has been one of the cheapest yet. So ditch the car for cities like Lisbon or Porto, and take it to the beaches and countryside.

What Do I Need to Know About Renting a Car in Portugal?

You’re likely going to get a rental car in Portugal to do some portion of this itinerary. It’s easy to drive around, and recommended for ease. When deciding on a rental car:

• Do use Discover Cars to Book — They have the best rates and options for rentals, you can add full insurance at a reasonable rate, and more. This is my trusted site for booking.
• There are Toll Roads —Super simple solution: ask the rental car company to turn on the electronic transponder. You’ll get billed at the end and you don’t have to worry about having euros on you.
• Extra Drivers Cost More — If two of you drive, you’ll need to pay an additional driver fee by day. For Sixt, it was 10 euros daily.
• There is an Airport Surcharge — Each company has a different fee, but you’ll likely spend an additional 25 euros to pick up at the airport, which is no biggie since there is a major convenience in doing so.

What’s the Best Airport to Fly Into for Portugal?

If you’re coming international from the US, I always recommend Lisbon. You’re going to want to see the city anyways, and the flight options are the best. It also puts you at a great starting point for this itinerary.

How I Structured this 10 day Portugal itinerary

When I started honing on the best places and regions of Portugal to recommend, I had one thing in mind: slow, intentional travel. I wanted the logistics of the itinerary to make sense, cut down on travel time, and be practical.

This entire trip is essentially a loop beginning in Lisbon, and I’ve included a few extension ideas for places to visit. I’ve chosen destinations in Portugal that I feel aren’t always top of mind. They are incredible, beautiful, and often fewer in crowds (well, except Lisbon, but that’s a must see!).

The 10 Day Portugal Itinerary — Lisbon to Alentejo to Comporta

Stop 1: lisbon & nearby day trips.

Recommended Time: 4 nights

Getting into lisbon from the airport.

When it comes to getting into the city from Lisbon Airport, I always recommend either taking an Uber or pre-booking a transfer. I typically do an affordable pre-booked transfer for ease , and the drive time is around 20-30 minutes pending the time of day.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

I have a few favorite hotels in Lisbon, and neighborhoods. In Principe Real, I love Hotel Das Amoreiras or Memmo Principe Real . My go-to’s in Bairro Alto are The Lumiares or Lisboa Pessoa Hotel . In the Alfama, I love the Memmo Alfama for its location in the heart of the neighborhood.

For my full list of recommendations, read my guide on the best boutique hotels in Lisbon !

My Favorite Things to Do in Lisbon

• Soak in Views from the Miradouros — The city is full of them, and it’s one of the best way to get oriented. My personal favorite is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara .
• Shop Local — The shopping is some of the best in Lisbon. I love shops like EmbaiXada , Claus Porto , Bernardo Atelier Lisboa , and A Vida Portuguesa .
• Stroll the Neighborhoods — Enjoy a quiet walk through the Alfama or even Bairro Alto, both have stunning views of the city. Stop into A Brasileira for the oldest coffee shop in town and cross the street to Livraria Bertrand – Chiado
• Take a Food Tour — These are such a great way to eat your way through Lisbon. I’d recommend this small group tour , this one with the reputable Eating Europe group , or this 17 tastings one.
• Visit the Belem Tower — It’s well worth pre-booking tickets and spending a chunk of time strolling around and taking in the views, and it’s right near Jeronimos Monastery . This walking tour is also a great way to experience both the Tower and the Monastery.
• Tour Jeronimos Monastery — Pre-book tickets to Jeronimos Monastery, the lines are usually for the chapel, which is beautiful but can also be viewed from above with a ticket to the conclaves (can’t be missed). I found myself loving an hour or two to stroll around.
• See MAAT Museum — One of my favorite museums in Lisbon to visit along the waterfront. Pre-book tickets here .
• Spend an Afternoon at LX Factory — They converted a ton of industrial factories into shops and restaurants, and there’s quite a few things to enjoy here. Find a rooftop bar, restaurants, and a wonderful book store too.
• Tour Ajuda National Palace — If you’re looking for grandeur and decorative art, come into the 19th-century palace where the royal residence once lived. Pre-book tickets here .

The Best Restaurants in Lisbon

• Time Out Market Lisboa — this food hall has everything you could want. If you want a good, no-res meal, come here.
• Magnolia — The it-girl right now of Lisbon, come in for any meal. The space is warm and inviting, and the food is it. *Reservation required
• Pica-Pau — This is where I’d go for traditional Portuguese food done highly well. Good spot to try bacalhau. *Reservation required
• Belcanto — Chef Jose Avillez runs the food scene in town and if you’re looking for fine dining, this is the one I’d book. *Reservation required
• Bairro Do Avillez — Several restaurants in one, this is where Chef Jose Avillez has several options for dining. I always love Minibar but wasn’t impressed last trip so I’d stick with Taberna in the front. *Reservation required
• Prado — for best farm to table cooking, this is where I’d come in for do big share plates with friends. *Reservation required
• A Cevicheria — One of the best ceviches in town, I go here every trip. *Reservation required
• Pasteis de Belem — If you want to skip the line, just past by the left and ask for a seat (much shorter than take away).

The Best Coffee Shops in Lisbon

• Hello, Kristof
• Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery

Where to Take a Day Trip From Lisbon

There are so many wonderful day trips I have done over the years and I’ll share a few to consider for your trip. Any of these can typically be done by public transport, but a group tour may be good option too.

• Sintra — The most obvious day trip that one must do is Sintra. It’s home to magical castles and ancient times. Tour places like Castelo dos Mouros, Palacio Nacional da pena, Palacio Nacional de Sintra , and more (you need tickets in advance for all). And of course there is the traditional pastry house of Casa Piriquita which is well worth a visit. You can train there from Lisbon in 40 minutes on the Sintra Line or self-drive in 30 minutes. Some tours to consider are: a full day private tour , half day tour in classic car , or this complete tour full day tour.
• Cascais — Just south of Lisbon is my favorite seaside town of Cascais. Reach it in under 40 minutes by train and have the whole day at the beach and in town. I personally always do this one as I love the change of scenery.
• Ericeira — This is where to go for those who want to go surfing. You can reach it by direct bus in 40 minutes or by car. There is a lot in the small town from boutiques to shops, and the entire beach area.

Sample Itinerary for Lisbon ( My 4-Night Lisbon Itinerary here )

• Day 1 — Get settled in town. Walk your neighborhood. Get a coffee. Dinner at Timeout Market for ease.
• Day 2 — Explore Alfama and the city center. Get a coffee at A Brasilieira and ride a cable car. Have lunch at A Cevicheria. See the miradouros, shop local. Eat dinner at one of Chez Jose Avillez’ restaurants.
• Day 3 — Spend the morning to early afternoon out in Sintra or Cascais. Late afternoon at LX Factory and eat dinner at one of the restaurants there.
• Day 4 — Belem Tower in the morning, stop by Pasteis de Belem for breakfast. Tour the Jeronimos Monastery and then walk along the waterfront to the MAAT. Lunch at Magnolia. Cruise around Bairro Alto and the neighborhood. Dinner at Prado.

Stop 2: Evora

Recommended Time: 2 nights

Getting to evora from lisbon.

The best way to get to Evora from Lisbon to continue this itinerary is by rental car. I would transfer back to the airport and get your rental car there (or book in town with a drop-off at the airport at the end). I recommend booking with Discover Cars for the best rates and options for rentals. You can also add full insurance at a reasonable rate, and more.

Where to Stay in Evora

You have a few choices for accommodations in Evora, but I think the best it to be out in the countryside. I stayed at Octant Evora and enjoyed the natural setting. Some other hotels to consider as well are Imani Country House , Convento do Espinheiro , or L’AND Vineyards .

My Favorite Things to Do in Evora

• See the Historical Sights — You can spend all day walking on foot going from one historic sights to the next. Stop into the  Roman Temple of Évora , see the Chapel of the Bones , and definitely go into the Cathedral of Evora (climb the stairs to the rooftop!)
• Do Some Local Shopping — There are several local boutiques in town like Oxalá , O Cesto Artesanato , and Livraria Fonte de Letras . Get things like olive oil, cork products, and more.
• Go Wine Tasting in The Valley — With several wineries within reach, I’d spend an afternoon at one of them like Fitapreta Vinhos or even L’AND Vineyards .

For more Evora recommendations, don’t miss my full guide to Evora, Portugal !

Where to Eat in Evora

• Botequim da Mouraria — One of the best meals of my last trip, line up early for open to get a seat at this 8-person bar. All dishes made by the owner and chef, this is where to come for the classics.
•   Fialho — The spot to come for all the classics like roasted lamb and local cheeses. *Reservation required
• Dom Joaquim  — Great local spot for elevated dining, it’s one of the most popular restaurants in town. *Reservation required
• Cavalariça Évora — Though there is one in Comporta, the Cavalariça Group opened doors in Evora. I’d pop in for a leisurely lunch here. *Reservation required

Things to Do Nearby Evora

• Visit the Village of Monsaraz — I would spend a full day exploring the valley, going all the way out to Monsaraz. The small hilltop village is so stunning, and well worth a couple of hours.
• Shop Ceramics in Corval — Known as one of the best ceramic towns in Portugal, I’d come here to shop at the “olarias” in the town. I loved Olaria Tavares .
• Stop at São Lourenço do Barrocal for Lunch — Out in the valley is the prestigious hotel , and well worth stopping for lunch at their tavern restaurant . Idyllic views, this was one of my favorite things I did.
• Visit the Village of Montemor-o-Novo — On your way from Lisbon, I’d pop into the historic town to stroll the streets and tour its ancient castle at the top.

Sample Itinerary for Evora

• Day 5 — Drive Lisbon to Evora, stop in Montemor-o-Novo along the way. Spend the whole day in Evora, see all the sights, eat lunch at Botequim da Mouraria or Cavalariça. Check into hotel, relax. Dinner at Dom Joaquim.
• Day 6 — Depart to tour the valley. Stop in Corval to shop pottery. Go to Monsaraz to tour village. Eat lunch at São Lourenço do Barrocal. Head out to the wineries like Fitapreta. Come back to Evora for a dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Stop 3: Comporta

Recommended Time: 3 nights

Getting to comporta from evora.

On your morning out of Evora, leave mid-morning to make the 1.5-2 hour drive out to the coast. It’s a leisurely drive, make sure your car is full on gas. The roads are easy to navigate, windy at times, but straightforward.

Where to Stay in Comporta

There is no more prestigious property than Sublime Comporta . It’s luxurious, super well done, has all of the amenities. So if you’re looking to splurge, I would book in there. I’d consider other properties like Spatia Comporta , Quinta da Comporta , and AlmaLusa Comporta .

My Favorite Things to Do in Comporta

• Spend time at the beach . There’s not a more better way than to just be at the beach in Comporta. The main ones are  Praia da Comporta ,  Praia do Pego ,  Praia da Torre , and  Praia do Carvalhal .
• Relax poolside. Book in a few hours to just stay at your property and enjoy.
• Shop town. Comporta town has a few small local shops for home and lifestyle goods. Stop into  Rice – Marta Mantero ,  Lavanda , and  Mercearia Gomes .
• Drive down to the village of Melides. This up-and-coming town has a lot to offer. From its main beach to the iconic Hotel Vermelho which was opened by Christian Louboutin, you could spend a half day here. I’d shop at Vida Dura , eat lunch at the hotel, and stroll the town.
• Go Horseback Riding. With  Cavalos na Areia , you embark on a 1.5 hour horseback tour down to the beach with a guide.

For more Comporta recommendations, don’t miss my full guide to Comporta !

Where to Eat in Comporta

• Sublime Comporta Beach Club — This was my favorite spot for a beachside meal. Order the paella and enjoy the sunset views. *Reservation required
• Cavalariça — One of the best meals in town. I really loved how paired down yet elegant this meal was.
• ALMO Café — Stop in here for lunch at least one day, the outdoor patio is lovely. *Reservation required
• Sal — Another classic, I’ve been here several years ago and it was just as packed as last time. *Reservation required

Sample Itinerary for Comporta

• Day 7 — Drive from Evora to Comporta in the mid-morning. Stop in town for lunch at ALMO Café. Head to hotel and check in to enjoy for the night. Sunset dinner at Sal or Sublime Beach Club.
• Day 8 — Slow morning at the hotel. Stop into Mercearia Gomes to pick up things for a picnic. Spend day at the beach. Dinner at Cavalariça.
• Day 9 — Head down to Melides. Spend morning at beach. Lunch in town at the Hotel Vermelho, shop at Pura Vida. Afternoon at pool or horseback riding. Dinner at at Sal or Sublime Beach Club.
• Day 10 — Check out and head back to Lisbon for flight home — or continue on to another destination.

If You Have More Time

For more beaches & small towns.

If you have more time to spend in Portugal and want to make it a 2 week itinerary, you easily could. From Comporta, I would continue on to the Algarves. It’s the most obvious choice for ease and you can drive down the coast in a few hours. Towns like Faro, Albufeira, Lagos, and Sagres are popular. You will need car.

For Small City & Wine Region

If you wanted to head north for a small city and wineries, I would return you car to Lisbon Airport or Lisbon Train station and go to Porto. Porto is another lovely region to visit. From there a few nights in Porto is lovely with a visit to the Douro Valley. You can get there by direct train from Lisbon so you could skip the car.

Save This Post for Later on Pinterest

PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

Where to Take a Family Beach Vacation in Florida in 2024

The Ultimate Kyoto 3 to 4 Days Itinerary

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Placerville, California

Write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• French Polynesia
• Travel Tips
• Family Travel
• Accommodations
• Packing Lists
• Photography Tips
• Northern California Guide
• San Francisco
• Lightroom Presets
• Rent Our Home For Photoshoots
• California Map

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Wander-Lush

28 Unforgettable Things to Do in Portugal: The Ultimate List

Portugal is easily one of the most rewarding travel destinations in Europe, with cosmopolitan cities, quaint villages, wine country, pristine forests – and not to forget, 1,800 kilometres (1,100 miles) of picturesque coastline ranging from dramatic cliffs, coves and caves to placid, sandy beaches.

Add to that more than 800 years of history, a fabulous food scene, music traditions and much more, and mainland Portugal plus the diverse islands of Madeira and the Azores have something to offer literally every type of traveller.

This mega Portugal Bucket List brings together 28 of the best things to do in Portugal, including must-sees, immersive cultural experiences , hands-on activities, and quirky and alternative Portugal attractions.

→ Don’t miss: The best places to visit in Portugal

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

28 of the best things to do in Portugal

Ride the #28 tram in lisbon.

There’s no better introduction to Lisbon , the capital city of Portugal, than a self-guided tour by tram. A Lisbon icon, electric trams first launched in 1901 and have been ferrying locals and visitors alike up and down the city’s hills ever since.

Tram 28 is the best route for sightseeing and views. Think of it as Lisbon’s more authentic answer to a hop-on-hop-off tour bus! Running between Martim Moniz and Campo Ourique, it takes passengers along some of the city’s most beautiful streets, past key landmarks including Lisbon Cathedral, the Thieves Market, São Jorge Castle, National Pantheon, Miradouro da Graça, Arco da Rua Augusta, and more.

At just €3 per trip (paid either in cash to the driver or using a rechargeable Viva Viagem card), it’s also a very affordable way to see the best of Lisbon. Climb aboard a vintage Remodelado carriage, stake out a spot on one of the wooden benches, and sit back and absorb the sights and sounds of Lisboa.

The tram runs seven days from 6am. It’s a good idea to arrive early to beat the crowds. Riding the whole line takes around 50 minutes one-way depending on traffic. For a less-touristy alternative, the #12E tram follows a similar route through the historic Alfama neighbourhood , stopping at São Jorge Castle and Se Cathedral.

Alternative Lisbon experience: Follow the 28 tram route in a private electric tuk-tuk and snap photos of the charming yellow trams along the way!

Learn how to make Pastel de Nata in Belem

When visiting Portugal, it’s mandatory to munch on as many rich and flaky Pastel de Nata (Portuguese egg tarts) as humanly possible. This delicious pastry was born in the shadow of the iconic Belem Tower (Torre De Belem) in the 18th-century kitchens of Jerónimos Monastery, making Lisbon the spiritual home of Pastéis.

While you should definitely buy a pack or two of authentic Belem custard tarts to take home as a souvenir , why not go one better and learn how to make them from scratch yourself. It’s a life skill that will serve you well!

A Pastel de Nata Masterclass is a must-do for foodies and a great experience for kids. The original recipe is a closely guarded secret, but padeiras are more than willing to spill the beans for eager visitors who want to master the art. The best workshops take place in local bakeries and teach you how to make the creamy custard from scratch.

Try it: Book a Pastel de Nata Workshop with an expert baker , including a glass of Ginjinha sour cherry liqueur in an edible chocolate cup to pair with your fresh-baked tarts.

Cruise the Douro River in Porto

Life in Portugal’s second city revolves around the Douro River, giving Porto some of its most famous landmarks including its handsome bridges and medieval Ribeira (riverside) district, with its colourful merchant houses and historic cafes .

Do as Porto’s wine merchants once did and let the trade winds whisk you through the city. A boat trip on the Douro is the perfect way to tour the top sights and learn what makes Porto one of the country’s most interesting cities .

In the past, rabelo – low-slung wooden cargo boats – were used to transport barrels of Port wine from the vineyards in the country’s interior to the city and onward to the shipping docks. A fleet of colourful rabelo now float the same historic route, taking visitors down Porto’s life-giving river and showing off the best of the city from a unique perspective.

A typical boat tour of Porto covers the famous ‘Six Bridges’ including Ponte D. Maria Pia, Ponte Infante Dom Henrique and Ponte de Dom Luís I, the Gaia caves, and the Cabedelo Nature Reserve. You’ll see the Foz do Douro, where the river empties out into the Atlantic Ocean, and the Barra do Douro with its dazzling lighthouse.

Take a day trip to the splendid Pena Palace

Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Portugal and a highlight of Sintra, a convenient day trip from Lisbon. Considered one of the finest expressions of 19th-century Romanticism in Europe, it’s both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

Set atop a hill and enveloped by green forest (200 hectares of which is the royal garden), Pena Palace is instantly identifiable because of its bright red, yellow and mauve facades, scalloped white trimmings and pointed turrets. It might look cartoonish in photos but seen up close in person, it’s very lavish indeed – especially the painted interiors, which were used as a summer royal residence for Portugal’s ruling family. 

A Sintra day trip is very easy to organise, travelling by train on the CP-Sintra line from Lisbon. Pena Palace is a 30-minute bus ride from the railway station.

Alternatively, a combination Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais day tour from Lisbon is a good choice if you’re on a tight timeline. Other noteworthy landmarks in the area include the National Palace on Sintra’s central square, Monserrate Palace and the Moorish Castle, later on this list of things to do in Portugal.

Pena Palace tickets: Pre-purchase your tickets online and skip the queue.

Listen to Fado music in Chiado, one of the best things to do in Portugal for local culture

Recognised as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Fado is a beloved Portuguese tradition that incorporates music, lyrics and movement. For an insight into the nation’s seafaring heritage, watch a live Fado performance in Chiado in Lisbon where Fado has been humming in the streets for more than 200 years.

Though its exact origins are a bit of a mystery, it’s widely believed that Fado emerged in the mid-1800s at a time when Portuguese mariners were undertaking their most daring sea voyages to the New World. Singing and dancing became something of a ritual for sailors as they searched for a reprieve from their stressful day jobs. 

Somewhat ironically, much of Lisbon’s Fado music is soulful and almost mournful. Coimbra Fado, by contrast, is more upbeat – apparently it was devised as a way for male students at the university to woo their female counterparts!

Fado is most commonly associated with Lisbon’s old Alfama and Mouraria districts. In the beginning the singers were all male, but today it’s women who take the lead, reciting stirring melodies that transport listeners to another time and place, accompanied by 12-string guitars and violas. Bars and restaurants in Alfama and Bairro Alto host Fado performers, and the popular Fado in Chiado theatre stages shows every night of the week.

Experience Fado: Folk music performances in Lisbon .

Tour one of the world’s oldest universities in Coimbra

Have you ever been to a university that is a combination of a palace, a church and has strong vibes of Harry Potter ’s Hogwarts? If you haven’t, it’s time to add Coimbra University to the long list of things you must do in Portugal.

Coimbra is the biggest city in Central Portugal. You can easily reach it by train from Lisbon in about two hours or Porto in about one hour, or stop here on your road trip from Lisbon to Porto . There are many historical monuments in Coimbra but the university campus, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, is the most famous.

With a history dating back to the 13th century, this stunning university is actually the oldest of its kind in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe . It is located in what used to be a royal palace and has many interesting treasures to explore as well as commanding fabulous views of Coimbra and the Mondego River.

Some of the most interesting places on the university campus are the Capela de São Miguel, with its beautifully decorated ceiling and walls, the chambers of the palace, and the rooftop balcony that offers excellent views of the area. One place you must visit is the Biblioteca Joanina. Walking into this ancient library feels like stepping into a movie set: all golden decorations, a piano, and a resident colony of bats!

You can visit Coimbra University by yourself if you wish, but it’s best to take a tour to learn about the history and secrets that hide in the various chambers. The university organises guided tours. Note that if you buy your own tickets, there are two types – make sure you buy the one that includes a visit to the library.

By Maya from Chasing Lenscapes

Pre-purchase your Coimbra University tickets: These skip-the-line tickets include an in-depth 90-minute tour of the main halls and the Biblioteca Joanina.

Take a stroll in the enchanting Bucaco National Forest

Located roughly 30 kilometres (19 miles) north of the historic city of Coimbra, the Buçaco National Forest is a true gem in Portugal. This 105-hectare green space houses one of the most remarkable tree collections in Europe, including species dating back to the Portuguese Age of Discoveries (around 500 years ago).

In the 17th century, the forest was settled by the Order of Discalced Carmelites – though it was previously inhabited for centuries before that. The monks built its walls, little chapels that are still standing today, and a convent that was supposed to be converted into a royal palace but is now a unique luxury hotel, the Buçaco Palace.

The best way to explore the forest is by foot, walking at least one of the many trails that take you through this enchanted place. Be sure to grab a map at the information centre (Posto de Turismo do Luso-Bussaco) as it will be very useful. Some of the points of interest you can’t miss while wandering through Buçaco are the Buçaco Palace, Fonte Fria fountain, and Portas de Coimbra (Coimbra Gate).

The most convenient way to get to the forest is by car, so this is a great opportunity to take a scenic road trip through central Portugal .

By Or from My Path in the World

Drink Port wine in the Douro Valley

If you’re in Portugal and you haven’t tried Port wine, have you even been to Portugal at all?! A tasting of the nation’s most famous export is an absolute must, and the best place to do it is the Douro Valley outside Porto, one of Europe’s most famous wine regions .

There are many advantages to doing a wine tasting in the Douro Valley rather than in Porto city. In Porto, you will only find overpriced touristy Port tastings; whereas in the Douro Valley, you will be able to visit centuries-old wine estates ( quintas ) in person. The acres and acres of vineyards here are incredibly picturesque and give visitors the chance to really immerse themselves in Portugal’s winemaking traditions.

The best way to visit the Douro Valley is through an organised tour from Porto. This one by Living Tours includes two different quintas, a boat tour on the Douro river, and a generous lunch. It’s also possible to rent a car and visit multiple quintas on your own. But that would mean you can’t drink port – so a tour is definitely the preferred option here!

By Lara from The Best Travel Gifts

Best Douro Valley tour from Porto: This itinerary by Living Tours includes tastings with the winemakers, a regional lunch, and spectacular views of the terraced vineyards.

Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve

There are few better ways to appreciate the beauty of the Algarve coastline than by foot. And thankfully, there are several stunning walkways you can take to explore one of Portugal’s premier beach holiday destinations from a different perspective.

One of the most popular walks along this stretch of sun-kissed shoreline is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail . At just under 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) out and back, it’s an easy half-day hike, or you can do it over a full day and enjoy the many beaches you’ll pass along the way.

Beaches aside, there’s plenty to see along the path such as natural grottos (including the famous Benagil sea cave), rock arches and bridges, sea pillars, and a lighthouse.

The family-friendly hike is described as moderate, and can be hard going in the heat of the summer months, so do yourself a favour by hiking in autumn instead. At this time of the year, you’ll enjoy sublime temperatures, fewer crowds, and won’t have to jostle for a parking spot.

You can complete the track in either direction, starting at Praia Vale de Centeanes or Praia da Marinha. If you don’t fancy retracing your steps it’s possible to just do it one way and catch a cab or Uber back to your car.

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Kayak through the Benagil sea cave

Out of all grottos that dot the southern Portuguese coast, the Benagil cave is the most captivating. That’s because, in addition to the lateral erosion caused by the pounding waves, the rain has worn away the top of the cave. The result is a natural skylight that illuminates the cavern and the beautiful patch of white sand that lies inside.

The fenced area around this ‘eye’ allows visitors to peer inside from the top of the cave. But to truly experience the magic of the Benagil grotto, you need to access it from the water.

Instead of hopping on one of the small tourist boats that pass through the cave, you could join a Benagil cave tour by kayak or SUP. Most of these tours are organised in the morning, allowing you some time to enjoy this mesmerising cave without the constant boat traffic. The beauty of arriving by kayak or SUP is that you’re allowed to actually set foot on the gorgeous beach – a privilege that boat visitors don’t have.

A kayak or SUP tour typically lasts around two hours and takes you to see several intriguing sea caves along the coastline. It can be quite intensive, depending on the water conditions, but a support boat with a lifeguard tags along and can tow your kayak if necessary.

By Sarah from CosmopoliClan

Try it: Book your Benagil cave kayaking experience with Secret Algarve.

Swim in a natural hot spring in the Azores

One of the most exciting things to do in Portugal is experience the hot springs on the Azorean island of São Miguel. The largest of the Azores – a chain of islands in the Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous region of Portugal – São Miguel has a wide selection of hot springs to enjoy.

There are several different geothermal springs on the island, each with its own unique feel. Terra Nostra is probably the most famous, known for its large spring-fed pool that is so rich with iron and other minerals that the water is almost golden in colour. Terra Nostra also has smaller springs as well as a botanic garden and a restaurant where you can eat cozido , an Azorean stew cooked underground using geothermal heat (look out for it later on this list).

Another cool spot is in Ponta da Ferraria, where a hot spring meets the ocean just where some rocks make a natural pool. You’ll have to time the tides just right – otherwise it can be too hot or too cold – but it’s a magical experience feeling the water’s temperature ebb and flow as the hot spring water mixes with the brisk Atlantic waters. Best of all, it’s free!

Should you want even more soaking time on your Sao Miguel itinerary , there are several other hot springs in the Azores also worth mentioning, including Poça da Dona Beija and Caldeira Velha.

Tip: Bring a dark-coloured bathing suit to enjoy the hot springs in the Azores – lighter suits may get stained by the mineral waters.

By Allison from Eternal Arrival

Experience it: Evening tour to Furnas for hot spring bathing at Poça da Dona Beija as the sun sets plus a traditional dinner under the stars.

Go hiking at sunrise on Madeira Island

Portugal’s second autonomous island region, Madeira, comprises four islands, each with a subtropical climate and breathtaking landscapes of volcanic rock formations, dramatic cliffs and pebble beaches. It’s no secret that Madeira boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe , many leading to high-altitude viewpoints for panoramic views of the cliffs and ocean.

From moderate and flat levada walks that take you through the island’s forested interior (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to more challenging mountain summits that see you rise up above the clouds, Madeira is a hiker’s paradise.

The Pico Ruivo do Paul trail is an easy hike of 1.5 kilometres (just under 1 mile), taking around 45 minutes to complete. It culminates at a 1600-metre-high marked viewpoint where you are rewarded with spectacular views down to the water’s edge.

One of the most adventurous things to do in Portugal is to set out for sunrise on another popular but longer trail that links the island’s two highest points, Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo. This Madeira hike is more strenuous, taking around 7-9 hours to complete the 15.6 kilometres (9.7 miles).

Ride a moliceiro boat in the quaint town of Aveiro

One of the best day trips from Porto is to Aveiro, a charming town known for the gondola-style boats that roam the canals. With a long history, it’s a cultural wonderland with plenty of sights and culinary experiences thrown in for good measure.

Just an hour from Porto by train, Aveiro is easy to reach and explore on foot. The main activity is riding one of the colourful molicero boats. These were originally used to farm seaweed and keep the region fertile, although they’re now more of a popular tourist attraction. A short ride will set you back €5-10.

Another place to visit is the nearby Costa Nova, a small beach town with Instagrammable huts painted in every colour of the rainbow. It’s easy to reach Costa Nova from Aveiro by hopping on a bus or hailing a taxi.

Finally, don’t miss indulging in Aveiro’s culinary gems. Ovos moles are traditional snacks from Aveiro made with sweetened egg yolk in wafer. Many cafes sell them, but there’s nowhere better than Confeitaria Peixinho where they have been made since 1856. Try the ones shaped like mini molicero boats!

By Rose from Where Goes Rose

Try it: Aveiro moliceiro experience with a visit to the Aveiro salt pan, the old Beira-Mar, neighbourhood, the Jerónimo Campos ceramics factory, and the Fish Market.

Go azulejo hunting in Porto

Discovering the gorgeous azulejo tiles is one of the best things to do in Porto , Portugal. The word ‘azulejo’ stems from the Arabic al zellige , which means ‘polished stone’. You will find these glazed ceramic tiles almost everywhere in Porto – from churches to railway stations, fountains to benches. Azulejo is a very important part of Portugal’s cultural heritage.

King Manuel I of Portugal brought this art form to this country in the 15th century from Seville, Spain . Initially tiles used simple geometrical patterns, but over time the repertoire transformed into a more intricate and decorative art form depicting religious stories and the history of the nation. You will mainly find these tiles in blue and white. Shades of yellow and green are also common.

You can easily explore Porto’s azulejos yourself. You will find some of the greatest works inside the Sao Bento Railway Station , where almost 20,000 azulejo tiles painted in the early 20th century by Jorge Colaco depict the history of Portugal and rural scenes. The work took almost 11 years to complete!

Other outstanding azulejos can be found at the Porto Cathedral, Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and the Casa da Musica.

By Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road

Alternative experience: Try a tile-painting workshop where you’ll learn about the history of azulejos while hand-painting your own souvenir tiles.

Browse the beautiful Livraria Lello bookshop in Porto

Located in the heart of Porto, the Livraria Lello is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. J.K. Rowling, author of the famous Harry Potter series, was famously inspired by it when writing her novels – she regularly visited the bookstore in the 1990s.

Founded in 1906 by the Lello brothers, the Livraria Lello, which is today one of the most famous Portuguese landmarks , attracts plenty of tourists thanks to its amazing design. Even before entering the bookstore, the white facade that combines Art Nouveau and neo-Gothic styles is quite stunning.

The exterior is certainly eye-catching, but it’s the store’s stunning interior to which the Livraria Lello owes its fame: the walls, lined with large bookcases from floor to ceiling, abound with volumes in all languages. The high point is definitely the iconic red spiral staircase.

This bookstore is so popular that an entrance fee is now charged (it costs €5, but the ticket price is deductible if you buy something inside). In any case, it’s a good idea to purchase your tickets in advance – otherwise you’ll have to queue twice: first at the ticket counter and then again to enter the bookstore. Try to visit in the morning to avoid the crowds on the staircase.

By Nesrine from Kevmrc Travel

Explore Tomar, Batalha and Alcobaca, the trio of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Central Portugal

One of the best things to do in Portugal is visit the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There is a trio of monuments located in Central Portugal that can be visited in one day as they are all located within an hour of one another.

The three UNESCO World Heritage Sites are the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Alcobaça Monastery, and the Monastery of Batalha. The first, the Convent of Christ in Tomar was originally a 12th-century Knights Templar stronghold until its dissolution in the 14th century. The Knights of the Order of Christ, as the Templars became in the 15th-century, continued at Tomar and aided Portugal in its maritime explorations during the Age of Discoveries. The site consists of both a convent and a castle built in the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles.

The Monastery of Batalha is a Dominican monastery originating in the late 14th century. It contains examples of Gothic and Manueline architecture styles. Alcobaça Monastery is a 12th-century monastic site credited with introducing Gothic buildings to Portugal.

All three sites are rich in architecture and history. All can be visited as part of a day trip tour from Lisbon if you are travelling in Portugal without a car. There is a discounted ticket for entry to all three sites which is valid for one year.

By Cath from Passports and Adventures

Day tour option: Book a private day trip from Lisbon with transfers and skip-the-line access to the monasteries.

Walk the medieval walls of the Moorish Castle in Sintra

Castelo dos Mouros (the Moorish Castle) is located in Sintra. Like the Pena Palace, it sits high on a craggy outcrop and can be seen for miles around. It’s less touristy than Pena and a more relaxing experience. Its rich history and spectacular views earn the Moorish Castle a spot on the best Sintra tours from Lisbon .

The Moors reigned from the 8th to the 12th centuries in Portugal and during this time, the strategic location of this very large castle (directly above the town) meant that it was the defensive centre for the whole Sintra region. This was also true during the later Christian rule of Sintra.

Make sure you stroll around the formidable castle walls and see the 12th century Igreja de São Pedro Chapel. From atop the walls there are incredible views of the Sintra mountain range.

This castle is also an unforgettable sight when you see it from a distance. The Royal Tower of Sinta (Torre Real) is the best place to view the castle from afar. Walking from the Pena Palace to the Moorish Castle is a wonderful experience, but there is also a regular bus service.

By Paula from Portugal Travel Hub

Explore the old town in Obidos

Only an hour’s drive away from bustling Lisbon (making it a great spot on a Portugal road trip ), the sweet, fairytale village of Obidos is a must-see in Portugal. The town is still surrounded by fortified walls and was actually gifted from King Denis of Portugal to his Queen for their wedding in 1282.

Medieval cobbled streets lined with small shops and whitewashed houses are a perfect backdrop for photos. A must-do in Obidos is to try the famous sour cherry liquor, Ginjinha de Óbidos , which originated with 17th-century monks from the region who combined brandy with Morello cherries. It’s traditionally served in little edible chocolate pots to taste for only €1 – and it’s simply delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to purchase a bottle to take home with you.

After you’ve wandered the beautiful streets, don’t forget to check out the well-preserved Obidos Castle. It’s a great place to walk around and you can even stay the night  if you feel like treating yourself!

By Cazzy from Dream Big Travel Far

Explore Obidos: History tour of the village and Jewish neighbourhood with a Ginjinha tasting .

Go beach-hopping in Lagos

Portugal’s southernmost region of Algarve is known for its golden sandy beaches, secluded swimming coves, rugged cliffs and sculptural sea caves. If you’ve come to Portugal in search of surfing, swimming or sunbathing, a tour of Lagos’s stunning beaches is something not to be missed.

The coastal city of Lagos is the ideal spot for a balance of city and surf. From lounging to exciting water sports, there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Beach-hopping is indisputably the thing to do in this part of Portugal. Highlights include Praia dos Estudantes (‘Students’ Beach’), one of the most striking beaches thanks to the Roman-style bridge – once part of a now-fallen fortress – that stretches out between two rock formations over the ocean. The quiet cove here is ideal for frolicking in peaceful tides.

Meia Praia beach is an enormous stretch of sand just outside Lagos. Spanning a monumental 4 kilometres (2.5 miles), it’s never too difficult to find space to stretch out your towel here.

Visit the anchor cemetery on Tavira Island

One of the quirkiest attractions in Portugal is the anchor cemetery on Tavira Island. On the sand dunes cascading into Barril beach , there are more than 200 large, rusty anchors. They were once used in tuna fishing when the island was a base for fishermen during the season. When the tuna population declined, the fishermen abandoned their anchors on the beach.

To this day, nobody really knows who collected them all and lined them up – but the truth is, whoever it was did the area a huge favour! Now, instead of being an abandoned location with old tumbledown fishing shacks, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tavira.

The fishing shacks have been transformed into busy restaurants and cafes, and the old train line that transported the tuna is now being used to ferry tourists on a small scenic train. It costs €1.50 one-way and takes you from the footbridge by Pedras d’El Rei, connecting the mainland with the island, over to the anchor cemetery.

Alternatively, you can walk a 1.3-kilometre-long trail next to the train line. There are also boats and ferries taking visitors from Tavira to the island. Unless you go on a private boat tour, you will be dropped off at Tavira beach. You then have to walk along the beach for 5 kilometres (3 miles) to reach the anchors.

By Linn from Amused by Algarve

Visit the Capela dos Ossos ‘Bone Chapels’ in Evora & Faro

Many visit Portugal for the beaches, the food and the epic palaces – but there is something more off-beat that draws visitors to Portugal: a visit to the famous Capela dos Ossos or ‘Bone Chapels’.

Some will consider these unique religious sanctuaries a dark tourism destination , and while they are not for everyone, they are a very interesting (if not a bit macabre) site. The two most popular bone chapels in Portugal are at Evora and Faro. Both are very different from one another and for many visitors, places they never forget.

The Evora Bone Chapel, the larger of the pair, is located near the Igreja de São Francisco Évora Chapel (St. Francis Church). Crafted from the bones of more than 5,000 individuals, the chapel measures 18 metres long and 11 metres wide. The bones are laid out expertly, with skulls positioned in the interior as rousing decorations.

The second Capela dos Ossos, the Faro Bone Chapel, is located in the town of Faro within an unsuspecting church, the Igreja Do Carmo, in a small square. The tiny bone chapel is located at the rear of the church off a beautiful garden. This bone chapel is a complete contrast to the Evora Chapel in that it’s only 5 metres long and just over 2 metres wide.

By Bec from Wyld Family Travel

Walk part of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago

Walking the Portuguese Camino de Santiago is an amazing cultural experience and a great way to discover the country. The Portuguese Camino is the second most popular Camino route; about 100,000 people accomplish it every year.

Starting in Lisbon and finishing in Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the total distance of the Camino from Lisbon is 630 kilometres (391 miles). It takes 30 days to complete. Many people start walking the Portuguese route from Porto, which reduces the distance to 260 kilometres (162 miles). The way is marked with yellow shells and arrows.

Spring is the best time for walking the Portuguese Camino. The weather is nice, it’s warm and sunny, there are not too many tourists, and fields and hills along the route are covered in wildflowers.

Crossing a country on foot, visiting both well-known attractions and off-the-beaten-path places, is a truly unique way of travelling. Some of the highlights of the Portuguese Camino include Lisbon, Santarem, Fatima, Tomar, Coimbra, and Porto.

The best thing about the Camino is that anybody can do it. There are no rules or limitations – you can complete the entire Camino or walk only a section, carry your own backpack or use a luggage transfer service.

By Alya from Stingy Nomads

Learn to surf in Nazare

Nazare on the Costa da Prata is a magical place, even more so if you’re a surfer searching for the best waves on earth. Pros and novices alike have wet dreams of the legendary Nazare waves. Riding in Nazare’s cold Atlantic water and frothy white surf is about as refreshing and exhilarating as it gets.

According to the Guinness Book of Records, Praia do Norte (North Beach) in Nazare is home to the world’s largest waves ever surfed. The wide beach is just the place for experienced surfers hoping to ride one of Nazare’s legendary monster waves, which often reach up to 30 metres (almost 19 miles) high.

The lighthouse on the cliff above Praia do Norte is the best vantage point to watch these giant waves and the gutsy surfers living their best lives. Inside the lighthouse is a cool surf museum with paraphernalia and quotes from famous surfers who braved the monsters and lived to tell the tale.

Nazare is a great place for beginners, too. There are several surf schools and camps in town to choose from. Instructors will ease you into things and build up your confidence on the town beach with smaller waves. When the time is right, you will join the legends of Praia do Norte.

By De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander

Go stargazing in Monsaraz

Right in the middle of the famous wine producing region of Alentejo in Portugal is an internationally certified Dark Sky Reserve, the first in the world to be recognised as a UNESCO ‘Starlight Tourism Destination’. The inky skies above Alqueva is a wonderful natural planetarium where there is almost no light pollution, making the whole area wonderful for star-gazing. It’s a must visit on any road trip of Portugal . 

On the edges of the hauntingly beautiful Alqueva Dam is the walled town of Monsaraz, home to the Observatorio do Lago Alqueva. Here you can learn about the Portuguese night skies and spend a few hours with their telescopes observing the constellations and planets of the solar system and the craters of the moon.

The quality of the Alqueva sky enables naked eye observation of a large number of celestial bodies. Your tutor for the evening will bring the sky to life. You’ll find out about the history of astronomy and how the first scientists discovered the stars and planets, how they were named, and what is known about each of them. 

On the right night, and with the right conditions, the velvety sky above Monsaraz may even show you the Milky Way, a hazy band of light seen in the night sky, formed by stars that cannot be individually distinguished with the naked eye. Make sure to bring your camera – you can take images through the telescope for an amazing reminder of your dark skies experience.

By Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders

Explore Portugal’s oldest and largest Natural Park, Serra da Estrela

Located in the central part of Portugal, Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a mountainous area that contains the highest peak in continental Europe, known as the Torre. It has another claim to fame for being the first and the largest Natural Park in Portugal (though it doesn’t have the same status as Peneda-Geres National Park, the nation’s only Parque Nacional).

The Serra da Estrela is best visited by car or on a day trip with private transportation as access from the likes of Lisbon and Porto via public transport is not easy. There are several towns dotted around the foothills where you can stay.

Things to do in the Natural Park include taking the cable car down the valley to enjoy views across the Serra da Estrela mountains and beyond. There are also two towers with domed-shaped roofs that were former radar towers for the Portuguese Air Force. They make for great pictures. There is a retail building at the top of the mountain where you’ll find a restaurant and shops selling locally produced crafts and other products.

There are also walking opportunities, waterfalls to find, and a beautiful carving of the protector Saint of the Shepherds called Senhora da Boa Estrela etched into the rock face of the mountain.

If you are looking for unique things to do in Portugal outside of the main cities, jump in a car and head for the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It is an area of stunning natural beauty and a place not to be missed.

By Cath from Travel Around Ireland

Day trip option: Excursion to Serra Da Estrela departing from Lisbon, Braga or Porto .

Join a Portuguese food tour in Lisbon

Portugal has a lot going for it: an agreeable climate, historical cities, beautiful beaches, and excellent wines including the finest Port wine in the world. Another undeniable national treasure is delicious Portuguese food .

For food travellers, one of the best introductions to the cuisine of Portugal is a dedicated food tour. Most cities around the country offer this experience, but the best place for a culinary exploration has to be Lisbon, Portugal’s food capital.

A walking food tour is no doubt the best way to experience not just food, but also the culture and history of the city. A visit to some of Lisbon’s more traditional local neighbourhood restaurants, cafes, food markets and small shops will give you an insight into how locals live and what they eat.

Most food tours last for around four hours and are a short but tasty introduction to local food specialties that will leave you wanting more. While there are food tours in Lisbon that focus on popular venues and markets such as the Mercado da Ribeira , it’s nice to opt for a smaller tour to discover off-the-beaten-path eateries only the locals know about.

As for the food you’ll try: bacalhau (salted and dried cod fish and Portugal’s National dish) will most certainly be on the tasting menu. Don’t miss caldo verde , sausage and kale soup, or Pastel de Nata – all must-trys when visiting Portugal.

By Lori from Travlinmad

Recommended Libson food tour: 10 tastings of Lisbon with locals .

Eat cozido on Sao Miguel

Furnas is located on the southeast side of Sao Miguel island in the Azores archipelago. The town, one of the most popular places to visit on Sao Miguel , sits in the remains of a long-extinct volcano and is the centre of the island’s geothermal activity. Home to hundreds of natural springs and streams, visitors have been coming here for centuries to try the mineral waters and thermal pools. They also come to eat cozido .

Cozido (also known as furnas ) is a traditional Portuguese stew made from beef, potatoes and vegetables including carrots and cabbage. Although you can find versions of cozido throughout Portugal, it’s only in Furnas that you will find Cozido nas Caldeiras . Literally translated as ‘cooked in the boiler’, this hearty meal is slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat.

At Furnas Lake there is a cozido cooking spot where local restaurants take their stews to be cooked. Each restaurant has a dedicated underground hole and the area is guarded by two men who are responsible for placing the pots in the ground and later removing them using long iron tongs.

It’s not only restaurants that can use the cooking spot, however – anyone can turn up with their pot and for a few euros have it placed underground. Most cozido are left overnight to cook but you can also take your homemade stew along in the morning and return to collect it 5-7 hours later. Bom apetite!

By Katja from Globe Totting

Go diving in the Algarve

Southern Portugal’s Atlantic coastline is just as breathtaking seen from underwater as from above. Naturally it’s home to some fantastic sites for scuba diving.

Diving conditions are great in the Algarve, with calm seas, good visibility, a rich biodiversity and a variety of interesting underwater attractions. Around the towns of  Albufeira, Portimão, Lagos, Faro and Sagres there are a variety of dive sites for all skill levels. The colourful rocky reefs are covered in algae, anemones, soft corals and sponges. If you love marine animals you will not be disappointed diving here. 

All dive sites are rich in fish life with sea bass, sea bream, groupers and plenty of other species on the reefs. Keep an eye out or your camera ready for interesting creatures including colourful nudibranchs, octopus, moray eels and even seahorses.

For wreck diving enthusiasts, the Algarve has plenty to offer ranging from old ships from the 1750s to a B-24 Liberator Bomber plane wreck from World War II. Several were purposely sunk to make artificial reefs. Ocean Revival Park in Portimão is a unique diving project where four Portuguese navy vessels were sunk deliberately at different depths to form a marine life sanctuary.

Most dives are done from boats, but entering from the shore at some spots, such as the beautiful Porto de Mos beach in Lagos , is also possible. The Algarve can be divided all year round, but the best conditions are in autumn and spring when the blue waters are clear and the temperatures mild.

By Campbell & Alya from The Algarve Family

What is your favourite thing to do in Portugal? Is there something else I should add to the list?

More Portugal travel inspiration

• 17 most beautiful places to visit in Portugal
• The best cities in Portugal
• First timer’s guide to Lisbon
• 24 hours in Porto
• The best Airbnb apartments in Lisbon
• The most unique places to stay in Portugal
• Top Portugal souvenirs (and where to buy them)
• Lagos beach guide

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Portugal Travel Tips

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

I’ve been to Portugal many times over the years and I never tire of it . It’s one of the most unappreciated countries in Europe and sees a fraction of the tourists that its neighbors do.

Sure, in recent years Lisbon has become a hub for digital nomads, expats, and retirees thanks to its low cost of living. But, in the rest of the country, not much has changed.

Best of all, fewer crowds mean a better, more local experience that won’t break the bank.

This Portugal travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this stunning and underrated European gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Portugal

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in portugal.

1. Admire Lisbon

Lisbon is gorgeous. I instantly fell in love with it. It has mystique, history, and great food. Take a trip to the Castle of St. George, see the 16th-century UNESCO Belem Tower, admire the churches (specifically the Sé de Lisboa Cathedral), listen to some traditional Fado music, and enjoy the delicious cuisine. It’s one of the most affordable and underrated capitals in Europe!

2. Visit Batalha Monastery

Batalha is a town located just 90 minutes by car from Lisbon. The town is home to Batalha Monastery, officially known as the Monastery of Saint Mary of the Victory. Built in 1388, it’s one of Europe’s greatest Gothic masterpieces and makes for a popular day trip from Lisbon. The monastery took 131 years to build and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the gigantic gothic doorway and seeing the towering interior (which is lined with 16th-century stained-glass windows) is absolutely breathtaking. Admission is 6 EUR, but you can also purchase a combo ticket to see The Convent of Christ in Tomar and The Abbey of Santa Maria for 15 EUR.

3. Explore the Azores

These 9 islands lie 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) from Lisbon in the Atlantic Ocean. Each of the islands offers a slow-paced way of life, unique wildlife, and stunning beaches. These islands are very off the beaten track and a good “out of the way” place to go. São Miguel is great for hiking and road trips, Pico has great wine, and São Jorge has incredible nature, but you can’t go wrong with any of the islands here!

4. Party in Lagos

Lagos is the place people go to party in Portugal. It’s an excellent destination to soak up the sun. During the summer, this is one of Europe’s premier party destinations for young travelers. there are also incredible beaches, great surfing, and lots of historic churches here. The city is also home to Europe’s first slave market, a sobering sight that dates back to 1444.

5. Enjoy Porto

Porto is one of Portugal’s most colorful cities. Spend some time getting lost and meandering the narrow alleyways and steep staircases that lead to the scenic Douro River. Hop on a river cruise, visit the iconic Lello & Irmão bookstore, tour the museums, and visit the surrounding Duoro Valley and its many vineyards (this is the region where port wine comes from, hence the name). It’s also one of the main launching points for the famous Camino Portugues hike that leads to Santiago de Compostella in Spain (which takes 10-14 days, though you can definitely just do a day hike or a smaller section of the trail).

Other Things to See and Do in Portugal

1. journey to evora.

One of Portugal’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Evora is a small town that offers an array of beautiful and historic buildings. Located 90 minutes east of Lisbon, Evora’s most famous landmark is the Temple of Diana, a Roman temple and UNESCO site from the 1st century. But there is also the Praça do Giraldo, the town’s main square, which is a charming spot to people-watch and embrace the local pace of life. This is small-town Portugal at its best.

2. See the Religious Monuments in Braga

Located one hour north of Porto, the beautiful city of Braga boasts numerous Baroque monuments, including one of the country’s best-known sights: the Bom Jesus Sanctuary (a Catholic shrine and pilgrimage site). The old and the new city are connected by the main square, Praça da Republica, which is a great place for a stroll. The city’s cathedral is also very much worth a visit, as it is the country’s oldest (construction started in 1509).

3. See the Abbey of Santa Maria

Located between Lisbon and Porto, the Abbey of Santa Maria is Europe’s largest Cistercian building (the Cistercians are a Catholic order of monks and nuns, founded in 1098). You can wander around the abbey at your leisure to learn more about its cloisters, dormitories, library, and more. The church is free to enter but the monastery costs 6 EUR. You can save money by purchasing a combo ticket to the Convent of Christ in Tomar and the Batalha Monastery for 15 EUR.

4. Head to Sintra

Lord Byron, an English poet writing in the 18th century, said that Sintra was “perhaps in every respect the most delightful [place] in Europe.” If you are visiting Lisbon, you should definitely make an effort to come here to see its palaces, wonderful views, and museum collections. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. The train takes about an hour from Lisbon and costs under 5 EUR.

5. Learn about the Knights Templar in Tomar

The big attraction in the town of Tomar is the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ. It was the headquarters for the Knights Templar in the 12th century (they were a Catholic military order founded in 1118 that fought in the Crusades). The castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was an important defensive stronghold against the encroaching Moors (Muslims from North Africa who eventually conquered parts of Spain and Portugal). Admission is 6 EUR or 15 EUR with a combo ticket.

6. Hit the water

Aveiro, located 72 kilometers (45 miles) south of Porto, lies on what’s known as the Silver Coast. This small university town has a historic center built on canals, giving rise to its nickname “the Venice of Portugal.” The winds here create good opportunities for windsurfing and surfing too. You can rent surfboards for as little as 15 EUR per day, while kitesurfing and windsurfing rentals around 50 EUR. If you want lessons, most two-day courses cost around 130 EUR.

7. Get lost in Coimbra

Another university city, Coimbra is located between Lisbon and Portugal and is home to one of the world’s oldest universities (the university was founded in 1290 and moved to Coimbra in 1537). There is a famous and beautiful old library that you can tour, but the real thing to do in Coimbra is just wander through its many historic streets. There are plenty of churches and gardens to take in as you stroll around soaking up the history. It’s a postcard-perfect destination.

8. Attend a Fado performance

Fado is a local type of music that originated in Lisbon. It’s a rather haunting, mournful style often focused on the hardships of the poor or life at sea. The music first appeared in the 19th century and was popular with the working class (especially sailors). The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, which is why many of the songs focus on the inevitability of misfortune and suffering. While melancholic, the music is also beautiful and poetic.

9. Check out Faro

Faro is a common starting point for tours of the Algarve region, a southern region brimming with great beaches, tasty seafood, and plenty of tourists. Faro itself isn’t a beach city, but has a lovely old town and is a great place to spend a day before you explore the coast. Don’t miss the cathedral and the municipal museum to learn more about the city.

10. Stand at the edge of Europe

Cape Sagres is the most southwestern point on the European continent. It was here that Henry the Navigator, one of Portugal’s most revered figures during its empire, had his famous navigation school. He was one of the central figures to kick start the Age of Discovery in the 15th century that put Portugal on the map (literally). His development of lighter caravel ships allowed explorations in West Africa, which also launched the slave trade.

11. Try a Pastéis de nata

This pastry is a Portuguese staple. You’ll find these delicious custard-filled tarts at every bakery. They’re a must for an authentic food experience and cost around 1 EUR.

12. Walk the Templar Stairs

Located in Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site composed of several historic buildings, including a huge palace and chapel. But the highlight is the Initiation Wells, two massive wells that stretch far underground. They were built by the Templars for their initiation rituals. Would-be knights would have to travel down a winding staircase into the massive wells blindfolded and navigate a labyrinth before coming back to the light. Today, you can tour the wells and explore them yourself. Admission is 10 EUR.

The Camino Portugues (The Portuguese Way) is a pilgrimage trail that stretches from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It’s the second most popular Camino, after the main French Way, though it sees a fraction of pilgrims compared to the main route. Most hikers start in Porto, with the 280 kilometers (173 miles) journey taking around 10-14 days, though it’s also possible to start in Lisbon for a longer trek.

For more information on other destinations in Portugal, check out these guides:

• Lagos Travel Guide
• Lisbon Travel Guide
• Porto Travel Guide

Portugal Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country for 10-20 EUR per night for a basic tent plot without electricity.

A room in a two-star budget hotel costs between 40-75 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and TV. Free breakfast is sometimes included as well.

On Airbnb, private rooms start at 30-50 EUR per night while entire homes/apartments average around 100 EUR.

Food – Fish and seafood form the backbone of Portuguese cuisine (Portugal eats the most seafood per capita in Europe). Cod, sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), sea bass, and shellfish are some of the most common staples. Other popular dishes include cozido à portuguesa (boiled stew), peixinhos da horta (breaded and fried vegetables), and cured ham. Be sure to also try the prego (beef sandwich) or the bifana (pork sandwich). You can find them at local cafes for just 5 EUR.

You can find snacks in bakeries for 2 EUR or less, light meals and sandwiches for around 8-10 EUR, and fast food for around the same price.

If you want a three-course meal with drinks, you’re looking at spending closer to 20 EUR. After that, the sky is the limit!

For a casual restaurant meal, expect to pay around 10 EUR.

Beer is around 3 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs around 2.50 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

If you’re cooking, groceries cost around 35-45 EUR for a week’s worth of food. This includes staples like pasta, rice, produce, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Portugal Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Lisbon for around 45 EUR per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm room, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and sticking to free activities like free walking tours, enjoying the beaches, and exploring the Old Town. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 125 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat at cheap local restaurants and cook some meals, use public transportation and take the occasional taxi, visit paid attractions like the botanic gardens and Belem Tower, and enjoy some drinks at the bar.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more a day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink what you want, rent a car to explore the region, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you really want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Portugal Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

For the most part, Portugal is an incredibly affordable destination. Food, accommodation, wine – it’s all very cheap (especially when compared to other EU countries). As long as you’re not splurging on a ton of booze or eating at the overpriced tourist restaurants, you’ll find it easy to save big while still enjoying yourself. Here are a few more ways to save money in Portugal:

• Look for free museum visits – Some museums are free on Sundays. Check with the local tourism board or the museum’s website for more information on free/discounted hours.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis add up so if you’re on a budget, skip the taxis and use the metro or bus system to go where you need to.
• Say “no” to bread – When eating out, a selection of bread and olives may be brought to your table before your meal. These aren’t free, so just say no if you’re on a budget.
• Stay at a pensão – These family-run inns offer decent lodgings for very little money and are a great alternative to hotels.
• Get a tourist card – Certain cities, like Porto and Lisbon, offer tourist cards that provide unlimited access to public transportation (normally for one, two, or three days) and free or discounted access to museums and monuments. If you plan to see lots of sites, be sure to go to the local tourism office and pick up one of these cards!
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find Couchsurfing hosts all throughout the country. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you can connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice. Just send your requests early in the summer.
• Cook your meals – Restaurants here are cheap, but eating out all the time adds up. Visit the local market to stock up on groceries and cook a few meals. You’ll save a ton!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Portugal

Budget accommodation is plentiful in Portugal. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Lookout! Lisbon Hostel (Lisbon)
• Lisboa Central Hostel (Lisbon)
• Yes! Lisbon Hostel (Lisbon)
• Rising Cock Party Hostel (Lagos)
• Gold Coast Calm Hostel (Lagos)
• Casa D’Alagao (Faro)
• HI Hostel Faro (Faro)
• Rivoli Cinema Hostel (Porto)
• Gallery Hostel (Porto)
• Pilot Design Hostel & Bar (Porto)

How to Get Around Portugal

Train – Portugal has a great rail system. Tickets are affordable, with a ride from Porto to Lisbon costing around 25 EUR. Even the high-speed rail is affordable (unlike in many other European countries); it’s about the same price between Porto and Lisbon as the regular train. A train trip between Braga (in the far north) to Faro (at the southern tip) costs between 65-75 EUR.

Bus – Buses are the cheapest way to explore, and they’re also not super time-consuming since Portugal isn’t a huge country. A cross-country bus from Lisbon to Lagos costs between 15-20 EUR, while an eight-hour journey from Braga to Faro costs around 30 EUR.

Lisbon is the main hub for budget-friendly Flixbus routes around the country. It’s the cheapest way to get from Portugal and into the rest of Europe. A bus to Madrid, Spain costs around 30 EUR.

Flying – Flying is the best way to get to the Azores, though it’s likely not worth it for getting around the mainland. A flight from Lisbon to the Azores costs as little as 50 EUR, while Lisbon to Madeira starts at about 40 EUR. TAP Air is Portugal’s official airline.

Taxis – Taxis start at 3.50 EUR and go up by about .80 EUR per kilometer. Skip them if you can as they add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Portugal’s larger cities but it’s not much cheaper than taxis. I’d still skip ridesharing altogether if you’re on a budget.

Bike rental – Locals like to get around by bike and bike rentals are available in all the major cities. You can rent a basic city bike for around 10-15 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals cost as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. It’s a super affordable way to explore if you have someone to split the cost with (especially in the Azores). Drivers need to be at least 18. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Portugal

Peak season in Portugal is during the summer months of June-August. Temperatures hover around 23°C (74°F) and popular destinations like Porto and Lisbon experience an influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Portugal is the shoulder season in the spring and fall (April-May and September-October). Temperatures range from 18-22°C (65-71°F) so it’s still warm enough to explore and enjoy the outdoors. There aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper, making it an ideal time for budget travelers.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary quite a bit from place to place, but overall, the temperature averages around 12°C (53°F). I’d avoid visiting in the winter if you can, however, if you’re on the continent already Portugal is one of the warmer places to spend the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Portugal

Portugal is very safe for backpacking and solo travel as violent attacks are uncommon. Pickpocketing is the most common crime and can occur in touristy areas and on public transportation. Be aware of your surroundings when you’re in markets, on busy streets, and when using the metro. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight just to be safe.

Drugs here have been decriminalized, but it’s best to avoid them as selling drugs is still illegal. If approached and offered drugs, politely decline and continue on your way

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night if intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Remember: always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. You have every right to remove yourself from the situation. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Portugal Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Portugal Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Portugal travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Lagos, Portugal

The Best Walking Tours in Lisbon

Where to Stay in Lisbon: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 9 Best Hostels in Lisbon

When Three Days Is Not Enough Time

Lisbon: Even Better the Second Time

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Ten days in Portugal: the ultimate itinerary

Hit up stunning cities, laidback beach towns and amazing food aplenty on this ten-day tour of Portugal’s greatest spots

For a small country, Portugal punches well above its weight when it comes to food, history, unforgettable places and one-off experiences. We asked Lisbon local Lucy Bryson for her expert tips on the best way to spend ten days exploring the best of Portugal.  And although a whistlestop tour of ten days isn’t nearly enough to see everything great the country has to offer, it’s just about enough to get a flavour – and leave you hankering for more.

The good news for travellers pressed for time (and budget) is that much of the country is well served by public transport.  T rains and buses are largely reliable, comfortable, and affordable. The bad news is that your ten-day adventure will only give you a couple of days each in Lisbon and  Porto – two of Europe’s greatest city-break destinations – and you’ll miss out entirely on  harder-to-reach inland destinations, not to mention the outlying Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores . But what’s a time-strapped traveller to do? You’ll just have to come back again soon.

RECOMMENDED:

📍  The best things to do in Portugal 🏖 The best beaches in Portugal

An email you’ll actually love

The perfect ten-day Portugal itinerary

Day 1: Porto

Porto is one of Europe’s most photogenic cities, and its modern international airport is a quick metro ride away from the city centre, making it a great place to start your trip.

Get your bearings

The best way to get to know Porto is on foot.  As you leave the suburbs and head towards the city centre, workaday residential streets give way to increasingly attractive public squares leading downhill to the grand galleries, pavement cafés and religious buildings of the historic centre – a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Peep into São Bento railway station to admire the beautiful, azulejo  tile - covered interior, and wind your way through the crowds on Rua das Flores shopping street to reach steep cobbled paths leading down to the insanely picturesque  Ribeira (riverfront).

This is the home of port, so stop  for a glass and a bite to eat at one of the many colourful cafés: Escondidinho do Barredo is a good call for bolinhos de bacalhau and other traditional tapas. Then stroll by the river to reach the giant face mural by revered Portuguese street artist Vhils. It’s right next to Armazén –   a colourful arts, antiques and curiosities warehouse fronted by a pavement café-bar that’s perfect for people-watching over a glass or two as the sun dips over the Douro river.

Where to stay

Music lovers would be wise to make their base at MOUCO , a strikingly modern venue combining hotel rooms (complete with record players and your choice of vinyl from the music library) with a live music venue, restaurant, and vibey bar with DJ sessions.

READ MORE: The best things to do in Porto

Day 2: Porto and Vila Nova da Gaia

Put on trainers with a good grip (you’ll be tackling a lot of steep cobbled streets) and fuel up with the bountiful hotel breakfast buffet – though coffee purists might prefer to get their caffeine kicks at highly-regarded Combi Coffee Roasters , 15 minutes’ walk away from MOUCO en route to town. 

Go downtown

Once you’re back in the city centre, check out the major downtown sights of the  Cathedral and Clérigos Tower. Be prepared to join a giant queue if you want to visit Livraria Lello, the bookshop which reportedly inspired JK Rowling while she was writing the first Harry Potter book. Recover from your sightseeing adventures with a coffee or something stronger at Base Porto, an open-air bar virtually at the foot of the Clérigos tower.

If it’s getting close to lunchtime, dive into Good Things Will Happen Soon .  L ess than 15 minutes’ walk away, it’s a kooky-chic crafts store and café, where light meals and snacks (including veggie and gluten-free options) are served in a secret garden.

Head downhill to the river and cross the wrought iron Luis I bridge to Vila Nova da Gaia , Porto’s equally stunning sister city across the bay. Port wine cellars abound here  – we recommend  avoiding the riverfront crowds and heading instead to  Poças, the 1918-founded family-run lodge tucked away on a backstreet.

Enjoy the views over the Douro to the colourful townhouses of the Ribeira and Porto’s stunning skyline with a sundown drink by the water, then head back to Porto for dinner and drinks at one of the trendy haunts along Rua do Cedofeita:  Catraio Craft Beer and Bar is a good place to start.

READ MORE: The best things to do Vila Nova de Gaia

Day 3: Porto to Aveiro

Hop on the train to a charming lagoon city

It’s a little over an hour’s train ride from Porto to Aveiro, the self-proclaimed ‘Venice of Portugal’. Trains run roughly every half hour, and standard tickets cost less than €4 . You’ll be leaving from the functional-looking Campanhã   station rather than the beautifully-tiled São Bento , but don’t worry: Aveiro’s 1860s train station has its own impressive azulejos.

Okay, so Aveiro is not quite Venice – but as you glide along in an elegant, brightly-painted moliceiro canal boat, checking out the art nouveau architecture lining the river while you drift towards the flamingo-filled salt flats on the outskirts of town, you won’t want to be anywhere else.

Art nouveau is everywhere in Aveiro, and once you’re back on dry land the best place to check it out is the riverfront Museu de Arte Nova , itself housed in a photo-worthy Belle Époque building. Afterwards, try traditional ovos moles (shell-shaped pastries with sweet fillings) at Confeitaria Peixinho before grabbing a drink at any of the cheap and cheerful bar-restaurants in downtown.

It’s a quick cab ride from the train station to the compact centre and the famous canals, where plenty of canalside Airbnbs make for an  affordable place to stay.

Day 4: Aveiro to Nazaré

Ride the bus to a famous surf town

Sitting across the road from the railway station on the eastern edge of town, Aveiro’s coach station is served by comfortable long-distance coaches. It’s a ride of around one hour 40 minutes ( €8 , three direct buses daily with Rede Expresso ) to the coastal village of Nazaré, famously home to some of the biggest waves on the planet.

You’ll need to visit during ‘Big Waves season’ (October-March) to see them reach truly monstrous proportions, but surfers visiting at other times of year will find the waves more manageable. If you want to give it a go, Nazaré Surf School offers equipment rental, plus lessons for those that need them. 

Explore the centre of town with its low-key, laidback bars and restaurants serving delicious fish and petiscos. Or if you’re f eeling flush,   Pangeia is a more upmarket dining experience.

Nazaré is the perfect mix of surfer chic and small-town charm, and offers a wealth of cosy, unpretentious and inexpensive beachside lodgings. Try the apartments from By the Beach .

Day 5: Nazaré to Lisbon

Catch a coach to the Portuguese capital

After soaking in the small-town vibes of Nazaré, it’s time to board the Rede Expresso bus again to the Portuguese capital – a ride of roughly two hours. Coaches make the trip from Nazaré at regular intervals from 6.50am to 8pm, at  €8-€12 . It’s wise to board early to make the most of all that Lisbon’s seductive capital has to offer.  Coaches from Nazaré generally arrive at Lisbon’s Sete Rios station, which is a metro ride away from the main sights. 

Get lost in Lisbon

Drop your bags at your lodgings and slip into your kicks-with-grips to explore the labyrinth of streets making up Alfama, Bairro Alto and Principe Real.  Stop at Pica-Pau for lunch, or take a petiscos tour with Devour Tours for a quick-fire peek into under-the-radar drinking and dining spots.

After dark, visit cool hub Arrios  for seemingly endless nightlife options – we recommend starting out with negronis and record-browsing at Amor Records. After midnight, Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré ’s ‘Pink Street’ throng with bar-hopping revellers.

The city is home to any number of big-name luxury hotels, but for a more personal service, look to boutique charmers like the brand new Hotel das Amoreiras , where the friendly staff, beautifully presented breakfasts and leafy location away from the tourist trail make for a warm introduction to the city. For budget lodgings close to the action, look to Airbnb for options like this smart apartment in Alfama . 

READ MORE: The best things to do in Lisbon

Day 6: Lisbon and Cascais or Sintra

Take a day trip to coast or country

Shake off a heavy head and make a beeline for coffee and some of the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon at Manteigaria . You’ll find a branch at foodie haven Time Out Market , handily located for taking the coastal train  (€3.50) from Cais do Sodré out to the beach resorts of Estoril and Cascais, half an hour out of town .

In Cascais, stop for lunch at one of the lively outdoor bars and cafes on the pedestrianised ‘Yellow Street’ and grab a cab out to Guincho to catch some surf – or just admire the dramatic landscape of cliffs and crashing waves.

If the weather’s less than perfect or you prefer fairytale castles to beach towns, head for the romantic, mist-swathed mountain escape of Sintra instead. Trains take around 35 minutes and depart from Lisbon’s handsome Rossio station. Don’t miss the Disney-esque Pena Palace .

Back to the city

After sunset, get the train back to Lisbon and jump off at Alcântara to explore the hip  LX Factory  complex , before heading back to Cais do Sodré for a saucily-styled cocktail at Pensão Amor , or laidback DJ sets and excellent burgers at Collect .

READ MORE: The best nightlife in Lisbon

Day 7: Lisbon to Sesimbra and Arrabida

Catch a bus to Sesimbra

South of the river in Lisbon, you can catch a bus from Sete Rios station (don’t confuse it with the long-distance coach station next door) to Sesimbra . It takes around 45 minutes and costs € 4.50.

While away the day on Portugal’s best beaches

Sesimbra has idyllic sandy beaches and some of the best seafood in Portugal, making it an ideal spot for lunch. Don’t miss Pescador for cosy vibes and sea views or Tasca do Isaias for the best grilled fish in town.

The town sits in a sheltered bay at the foot of the Arrabida Natural Park , famed for its adventure sports and some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal . The beach at Portinho da Arrabida is spectacular, but can only be reached by car – you could try booking a local taxi. Alternatively, hike down to the sandy and secluded Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo.  

Return in time for light meals and the best margaritas in town at the always-lively Black Coffee , or vegan treats with a sea view at Leaves Cafe.

Hotel do Mar offers stylish beachfront lodgings if your budget allows, while Vila Epicurea , in nearby Meco, has organic meals, yoga dome, and a pool with views to die for. And Airbnb has plenty of affordable rooms and apartments round here:  this one comes with gorgeous ocean views .

Day 8: Sesimbra to Comporta and Sines

Get the bus to the sunny Alentejo region

From Sesimbra’s centrally-located bus station, it’s a 45-minute ride ( € 4.50) to the coastal city of Setubal . The city’s handsome central square is worth a peek, but as time is of the essence, you’ll want to head to the downtown ferry terminal to catch the ferry over to Troia ( €5.30). Y ou might spot the Sado Estuary’s famous dolphins as you cross the waters.

This is the entry point to the sun-baked Alentejo region, famed for its handsome historic towns and its relatively underexplored beaches. Buses are infrequent, but it’s just a ten-minute cab ride to the uber-chic Alentejo beach town of Comporta .

Everybody from Madonna to Mourinho has been spotted here, so s ee what all the fuss is about with lunch and celeb-spotting on the white sands. (Stock up on local wine and picnic goodies if you don’t fancy forking out A-lister restaurant prices.) Then jump back on the bus for the two-hour trip to the Alentejo beach town of Sines ( €15) . While it’s famed for its surf and simple seafood restaurants, it’s also a good place to try the famous local black pig at welcoming spots like O Castelo.

For affordable beachfront lodgings with gorgeous views in Sines, try Hotel Valeiro .

Day 9: Sines to Lagos

Catch a coach to the Algarve

There’s just one coach a day from Sines to the Algarve beach town of Lagos  – it costs €1 4.50 and departs at 10am. That gives you plenty of time for a buffet with a beach view at the hotel, before the 10-minute walk to the Rede Expressos bus stop.

You’ll arrive in Lagos at around 12.40pm, and the bus station is only a ten-minute walk from the handsome old town. After the relatively relaxed vibes of Sines and Comporta, Lagos has a buzz to its drinking and dining scene – which shades easily into late-night partying, if that’s your bag.

After a lunch downtown (try steak or small plates with cocktails on the rooftop at the centrally-located Casa do Prego ) it’s high time for a swim and a nap on the beach. While there are arguably (even) more beautiful beaches further out of town, you’re just a few minutes’ walk from the soft sands and eye-catching rock formations of Praia da Batata . For post-beach drinking and dining, go for craft beers, rooftop cocktails and late-night DJ sets at Peppers Bar&Kitchen , which is lively without being lairy.

For an affordable base close to the town centre action, this Airbnb apartment is a good option, while the more upscale Cascade Wellness Resort   will be a welcome option for travellers in need of a little R&R away from the nightlife noise.

Day 10: Lagos to Faro

Faro , the Algarve’s regional capital, is home to the region’s international airport, so this may be where you say goodbye to Portugal.

Board a train to the Algarve’s capital

There are regular trains to Faro from Lagos railway station, which take one hour 45 minutes and cost €7.50. 

More than just a jumping-off point, Faro has its own charms. Take a stroll around the attractive marina before admiring the gleaming whitewashed buildings of the old town, stopping to admire the cathedral and for traditional local dishes next door at Tertulia Algarvia .

After dark, be sure to seek out the somewhat hidden Madalena :  a vibrant bar and cultural centre occupying a building that began life as a medieval hermitage. Today, it’s all about artfully crafted cocktails, a leafy terrace and DJ sets and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect spot for a last night out in Portugal.

Base yourself at a centrally located guest house such as the welcoming Casa da Valentina : the perfect spot for your last night in Portugal.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

20 Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal — From Fairy-tale Castles to Charming Beach Towns

Take your pick of hilltop castles, sunny beaches, and time-worn villages.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Roberto Moiola/Sysaworld/Getty Images

France and Spain have long taken center stage, with Portugal as a less-visited destination for in-the-know travelers. The tides are slowly turning and the small Iberian nation is, at long last, enjoying its well-deserved moment in the sun. The drawback to this increased attention? More tourists. Though it’s not like contending with a few crowds is going to put anyone off seeing Pena Palace or Jerónimos Monastery. And, of course, there are countless beautiful places to visit in Portugal, from the Azores and Madeira to the sun-splashed Algarve and even popular cities like Lisbon and Porto . This is to say that despite its relatively diminutive size, Portugal offers a treasure trove of natural, historical, and cultural wonders.

Cabo da Roca

Stefano Briccola/EyeEm/Getty Images

The westernmost point in continental Europe, Cabo da Roca exudes a wild, edge-of-the-Earth mystique. Waves crash against the rocks, tourists standing atop sheer cliffs stare out at nothing but blue to the horizon, and a historic lighthouse guides boats sailing along the rugged coast. 

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

dangrytsku/Getty Images

The majesty of São Miguel never ceases to amaze. Topping the list for many travelers visiting the volcanic main island in the Azores archipelago are the famous and impossibly photogenic twin crater lakes, Lagoa Azul ("blue lagoon") and Lagoa Verde ("green lagoon"). 

Pena Palace

chechele/Getty Images

One of the most beautiful places in Europe , Pena Palace is a hilltop Romanticist castle and the crown jewel of Sintra. Its candy-colored facade and sweeping terraces draw shutter-happy tourists from near and far. The stately interiors are filled with antiques, while the surrounding park provides tree-shaded pathways.

Levadas da Madeira

Simon Dannhauer/Getty Images

The Levadas da Madeira is a system of historic irrigation canals built across the island to carry water from the high-altitude slopes to sugar cane fields, farmlands, and cities. Hiking trails that run along the waterways give travelers a close-up look at the UNESCO-listed laurel forests.

Jerónimos Monastery

LUke1138/Getty Images

One of the most-visited landmarks in Lisbon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the late Gothic Manueline-style Jerónimos Monastery stands tall as an enduring symbol of power dating back to the Age of Discovery. The block-long complex continues to impress with its magnificent maritime details, cloisters, and tombs.

Algar de Benagil

Bkamprath/Getty Images

This fantastical seaside cave that’s reachable by boat doesn’t even look real. Sun beams in through the hole on the top, bathing the enclosed beach in light, and turquoise waters lap the sand. 

Clérigos Church

mtcurado/Getty Images

Clérigos Church is a must-see on any trip to Porto . While the artifacts and organ concerts certainly wow, both are overshadowed by the iconic 75-meter-tall bell tower, which visitors can climb for 360-degree views of the city (and a serious workout).

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Nazaré lures fearless surfers and attracts many curious tourists thanks to the larger-than-life swells that were the subject of the documentary “100 Foot Wave.” The huge breaks mean you’re likely not going to paddle out, but it’s worth the drive to see the enormous waves crash into the rocks and grab lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Vila Franca Islet

aroxopt/Getty Images

Located off the coast of São Miguel , the Vila Franca Islet looks otherworldly from above and just as pretty up close. The circular saltwater lagoon, which was formed by the crater of an ancient volcano, is ringed by lush vegetation. In the summer, it’s popular for swimming, snorkeling, birdwatching, and cliff diving (if you dare). 

LuisPinaPhotogrpahy/Getty Images

Situated about an hour from Lisbon, Comporta is a low-key fishing village turned in-the-know summer hotspot with cork trees, rice fields, and blissful beaches. During the warmer months, it’s well worth vying for a spot on the brilliant white sand of Praia Comporta.

Douro Valley

Colors Hunter - Chasseur de Couleurs/Getty Images

The oldest demarcated wine region in the world and the birthplace of port, Douro Valley wows viticulture enthusiasts and casual sippers. A mix of rolling vineyards, historic quintas, boat rides along its namesake river, and excellent restaurants means there’s plenty to appreciate besides incredible pours. 

Peneda-Gerês National Park

Denis Kabanov/Getty Images

Set in northern Portugal near the Spanish border, Peneda-Gerês National Park spans yellow-tinged hills, granite peaks, high-flowing streams, mixed forests, and Roman relics. Native wildlife — including the Pyrenean desman, Iberian frog, and Barrosã cattle — also call this protected land home. 

Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools

JoanaCarvalho

The north coast of Madeira brims with beautiful spots to take a dip, none more iconic than Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools . The Mother Nature-made lagoons off the shore of Porto Moniz were formed by volcanic rocks and filled with the tides of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Poço da Alagoinha

CarolinaGNP/Getty Images

Majestic waterfalls are one of the many enticements of the Azores. Poço da Alagoinha on the island of Flores is a stunning example with multiple cascades that gush from lush, vegetation-covered cliffs down to a pristine lagoon. 

Parque Natural da Arrábida

Americo Lopes/Getty Images

Parque Natural da Arrábida shows off many of Portugal’s best assets. Fine sand beaches fade into blue waters, towering cliffs rise from the sea, verdant vegetation covers the mountain peaks, and scenic hiking trails wind through the spellbinding scenery. 

Azenhas do Mar

Igor Tichonow/Getty Images

Of all the charming coastal towns in Portugal, Azenhas do Mar deserves special mention. Small in size, with just 800 inhabitants, whitewashed houses, and commanding sea views, it’s a postcard-worthy setting to sip local wine, savor regional seafood dishes, and swim in the natural rock pool. 

Castelo de Guimarães

LuisPortugal/Getty Images

Mystery and legend still swirl around Castelo de Guimarães. A major presence in Portuguese history, the castle was built under the orders of Mumadona Dias in the 10th century to serve as a place of refuge from and protection against attacks perpetrated by Vikings and Moors. 

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Sagres sits on a windswept headland at the western tip of southern Portugal. Sunny skies, dramatic sea cliffs, and uncrowded beaches make this tiny fishing village deserving of a detour. It’s also a surfer’s paradise that provides plenty of both beginner-friendly breaks and expert-level barrels.

Quinta do Barbusano

Tucked away in the mountains on the north side of Madeira, Quinta do Barbusano invites visitors to savor the flavors of the island with wine tastings and traditional espetada (beef skewer) meals overlooking the São Vicente Valley. It’s also possible to do a short hike to nearby Nossa Senhora Fátima Chapel for even more breathtaking vistas.

Livraria Lello

SOPA Images/Contributor/Getty Images

Livraria Lello shows off opulent staircases, an ornate stained-glass ceiling, and towering shelves packed with tomes. Harry Potter fans might notice a connection between the magical interiors of the historic bookstore and some Hogwarts scenes. It’s widely known that J.K. Rowling frequented the shop during her time in Porto.

Related Articles

Traveling to Portugal: 7 things to know before you go

Editor's Note

Chances are you know someone who has traveled to Portugal and is raving about it. After spending two weeks exploring Portugal with my family pre-COVID, I wholeheartedly recommend the country as a great destination for kids when the time comes. But even the best places have pitfalls that come with the highlights, so here is what I encountered while visiting Portugal with kids in tow.

Related: The best credit cards for family travel

Lisbon is a no-go for strollers

There's a lot about Lisbon to love. It's clean, safe and fun to explore. However, its streets are paved with cobblestones and it is remarkably hilly. Young kids might have trouble keeping up. Consider that one of Lisbon's major neighborhoods is named "Bairro Alto," which literally means "high neighborhood."

This is from a two-hour walking tour of the city, and only records stairs, not hills:

Of course, you don't need to take a two-hour walking tour, but if you are visiting Portugal with an infant, I highly recommend a carrier over a stroller. With a toddler, you might want to limit your plans to neighborhoods that have public elevators and/or bring a stroller that is good with uneven terrain. On the upside, some of the elevators in Portugal, such as the Santa Justa Lift, are attractions in themselves.

Naturally, if an adult in your crew has limited physical abilities, some of these same terrain concerns would transfer to those situations -- so plan logistics accordingly.

We did discover that Ubers were cheap and plentiful. Most rides within the city were less than $7 for Uber X and many were under $12 for Uber Black.

Don't miss the Maritime Museum

A popular Instagram spot in the Belem District of Lisbon is the Monument of Discoveries. It's worth seeing for the view alone.

Read more: 11 best hotels for a beach holiday in Portugal

But our favorite spot was actually across the street at the Maritime Museum (Museu de Marinha). It appealed to our kids much more than other museums as it took visitors through the adventures of Vasco da Gama and other Portuguese explorers. It even had artifacts from da Gama's voyages among its extensive collection. As a traveler, I was obsessed with the historical maps and globes displayed throughout the museum.

Younger kids will especially love the Galliot Pavilion at the end of the museum. There's a huge exhibition hall that houses royal yachts and brigs, fishing vessels and Portuguese ships with lots of room to explore.

Admission to the Museu de Marinha is $6 for adults and $3 for kids 4–12. The museum is open daily, 10 am to 6 pm, in summer; 10 am to 5 pm in the winter.

Lisbon's famous trams can get crazy crowded

If you have seen photos of Lisbon, you probably know about the iconic yellow trams weaving through the city's distinctive neighborhoods. That's not what we encountered in the days before COVID-19.

Read more: 13 of the most beautiful villages in Portugal

What we saw was a bit more crowded than the postcard image.

I'm not sure when the photos of empty trams are taken, but during an entire week, we never saw a tram that wasn't standing room only. If a future visit is in the cards for you and your family, consider whether or not you'll be able to comfortable social distance before jumping on.

Visit Sintra on a sunny day

Prior to visiting Portugal, everyone we asked told us that we must visit Sintra, mainly because of views like this:

This is another case where our reality was much different from our expectations. I mean, fog happens.

Our moderately cloudy day obscured the views as a misty fog bank enveloped Sintra. We couldn't see the ocean even when we drove just a few yards away. In retrospect, I should have paid more attention and realized that Sintra was a weather-dependent destination because of its location about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from Lisbon near the ocean.

The Algarve's water is colder than the Mediterranean

Something to keep in mind if you're an ocean swimmer: Average water temperatures in the Algarve in southern Portugal top out in the low 70s in mid-August. In late June, when we visited, the ocean was 67 degrees according to Sea Temperature , which felt too chilly for more than a toe-dip for us. Those degrees made a huge difference in our ability to swim in the ocean.

If your kids are into building sandcastles and chasing seagulls, the beaches along the Algarve are ideal -- sandy compared to the rocky ones in Mediterranean hot spots. Just keep in mind that you might have to descend a long flight of stairs to get to a spot for your beach towel. Here are some more tips for navigating the Algarve with kids along for the fun .

A house with a private pool is surprisingly affordable

TPG wrote about the Pine Cliffs Resort, a great hotel for families or groups of friends. Although it's definitely worth considering, so is renting a house with a private pool . We rented this one for 30% less than a room at Pine Cliffs for a week in June. With three bedrooms, including one in a turret, two patios overlooking the ocean and furnishings that look fresh out of an HGTV shoot, I'd say $254/night (before discounts) was a steal.

It's easier than ever to get to Portugal (in normal times)

Portugal is not currently open to most Americans due to COVID. And, as of Jan. 26, 2021, everyone age two and older traveling to the U.S. from Portugal must show a negative viral COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure before being allowed to board their flights; documented proof from a licensed healthcare provider of recovery from the virus within the past 90 days will also be accepted.

However, Portugal's pre-COVID popularity has not gone unnoticed by the airlines. TAP Air Portugal has a number of routes including nonstops from Washington, DC, Chicago and San Francisco. TAP is a member of Star Alliance and I've found great availability using United MileagePlus for 30k each way in coach or 70k each way in business class. United is a Chase transfer partner . Air Canada's Aeroplan is another good option if you want to transfer from American Express . TAP tickets include a free stopover in Lisbon or Porto , which can help maximize your travel budget.

Bottom line

Believe the hype: In normal times, Portugal presents tremendous opportunities for a great vacation, though that doesn't mean it is perfect for every single traveler. My teen, who is notoriously hard to please , listed Portugal among his favorite countries. When I asked why, his understated response was simply, "I liked the vibe there." I understood what he meant: Between the maritime history, the expansive vistas and the friendly people, I liked the vibe there, too -- though I'm sure having a private pool didn't hurt.

Read more about planning a vacation to Portugal:

• Tips for Exploring Portugal's Algarve Region With Kids
• Why Families Will Love Marriott's Pine Cliffs Resort in Portugal's Algarve Region
• Portugal Hotels on Points for Families of 4
• Go Here, Not There: European Cities Edition
• The Best Bucket List Points Trips to Beach Destinations

Transportation in Portugal: Find the Best Way to Travel Around the Country

Feeling unsure about how to travel around Portugal?

Do you want to find the most cost-effective and most comfortable option?

In this article we will talk about what types of public transport you should use depending on your travel needs.

Portugal offers a wide variety of transportation services such as trains, buses, trams, metros, taxis, and planes. Public transport in Portugal is safe, clean, mostly reliable and affordable.

How to travel around Portugal by train

Portugal has a broad railway network, making it easy to travel between destinations. Whether you travel to towns in the north or want to see the coastal caves of the Algarve, the reliable train system in Portugal provides a great way to discover the country with picturesque scenery.

Type of trains in Portugal

There are six main types of trains in Portugal:

• InterRegional;
• Intercities (“Intercidades”);
• Alfa Pendular;
• Fertagus; and

Regional (R) is slower and stops frequently. If you are on a budget and not in a hurry to get to your destination, then this type of train will suit you the most. The trains are pretty comfortable and have have air-conditioning. They are second class quality only so sorry, no first class travel here.

Interregional

Interregional (IR) is reasonably fast, running mainly on secondary lines.

Intercidade

Intercidades (IC) is the long distance express train connecting the capital of Lisbon to many other larger Portuguese cities. The trains all have air-conditioning and you can get a first class or a second class seat.

Alfa Pendular

Alfa Pendular (AP) deluxe trains are the fastest way to get around Portugal with speeds of up to 220km per hour (137 miles per hour). It connects all of the major cities in Portugal. They offer a mini bar, meals, wifi, audio and video channels. It is also the priciest option you can choose.

Fertagus (FERT) (website is in Portuguese) is a private operator running suburban trains from Lisbon across the Tagus River (“Tejo”) to Setubal and serves 14 stations. They all have air-conditioning with second class seats only.

Celta (CEL) are international express trains that run between Porto and Vigo with stops at Nine, Viana do Castelo and Valença operating twice a day.

Main train stations in Portugal

Here is a list of the main train stations in Portugal

In Lisbon there are:

• Santa Apolónia ;
• Oriente ; and
• Sete Rios .
• Campanhã ; and
• Porto São Bento .

In Coimbra:

• Coimbra (Estação Nova); and
• Coimbra B (Estação Velha).

To see the Comboios de Portugal (CP) train map of Portugal, click here .

Train ticket prices in Portugal

The train transportation in Portugal is very affordable compared to a lot of western European countries.

I recently travelled to Porto paying only €25 for one-way on a second class train. If you buy a return ticket you can get 10% discount for long-distance journeys, but only if you book your trip in advance.

Discount train tickets

Comboios de Portugal (CP) (the state-owned railway company) offers various discounts for children, youngsters, senior citizens and more.

Here are a few of the options you can take advantage of:

Family & Friends 50% discount. Discount applies for weekends for groups of three to nine people.

Children half-price. Children under the age of three can travel for free in Portugal and they can enjoy further discounts between the ages of three to 12 years old.

Trainsharing up to 50% off. If you travel with a group of three or four people on the Alfa Pendular or Intercidade trains on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, you can get up to 50% discount.

Senior citizen 50% off. Discount applies for people aged 65 and above. As long as you provide your age with your ID, you get 50% discount on train prices.

Youth ticket 25% discount if you travel with Alfa Pendular or Intercidades tickets up to the age of 25.

Find more discounts for specific occasions at the CP website here .

Travelling around Portugal by bus

The networks of these bus companies cover most of the country’s main towns and local destinations. Compared to other national bus services in Europe, I found Portugal’s to be clean, comfortable and with a window seat the scenery makes a pleasant journey.

Major bus companies in Portugal

Rede expressos.

Some of the major bus companies have united under Rede Expressos . Their website offers services between almost every major city and smaller towns across Portugal as well as to Spain. You can reserve your trip online. They offer onboard media, free wifi and power sockets.

You can travel to Porto or Faro for only €19 even if you don’t book your ticket in advance and you are eligible to get discounts if you have REFLEX Card .

The Rodonorte bus company is serving the north of Portugal with services radiating out of Vila Real. Rodonorte buses connect with:

• Guimarães ;
• Mirandela ;
• Povoa de Varzim;
• Viana do Castelo ; and

The Eva bus company operates in the Algarve region. If you are planning to travel across the whole region, Eva bus offers a very affordable option to accomplish that.

With their tourist pass, you are eligible to use vast network of intercity transport. A three-day pass costs €30.40 and a seven-day pass costs €38.

Metro in Portugal

The transportation service in Portugal is quite broad, however only Lisbon and Porto have a metro system. Both are safe, clean and most of the time efficient. During the day, the metros run very regularly, but in the evening you might have to wait up to 10 to 12 minutes to catch one.

Metro in Lisbon

Currently, Lisbon Metro has 56 stations and four lines:

• Red: São Sebastião to Aeroporto.
• Yellow: Odivales to Rato.
• Blue: Amadora este to Baixa Chiado.
• Green: Cais do Sodré to Telheiras.

The Lisbon Metro opens at 6:30 am and closes at 1 am. However, note that some stations close before this time. A single ticket is €1.50 and a daily ticket costs  €6.40. At the moment, a monthly Viva card costs  €36.70 which is due to decrease in April 2019 to €30.

Click here for the Lisbon Metro map.

Metro in Porto

Porto’s Metro has 6 lines and 81 stations.

• Line A (Blue): Estádio do Dragão to Senhor de Matosinhos.
• Line B (Red): Estádio do Dragão to Póvoa de Varzim.
• Line C (Green): Estádio do Dragão to ISMAI.
• Line E (Purple): Estádio do Dragão to Aeroporto.
• Line F (Orange): Fânzeres to Senhora da Hora.

Porto Metro opens every day at 6 am and the last train departs at 1 am. Depending on the time of day, the metro can pass every 4 to 15 minutes. The cheapest ticket is €1.20, and can go up to €5.20 depending on how many zones you need to go through.

Click here for the Porto Metro map.

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for all the best tips about travelling to Portugal.

Portugal airports

Mainland Portugal has three international airports, Lisbon, Porto and Faro. These three airports cover the entire country, and provide numerous international routes.

Lisbon Airport

Lisbon Airport is located within the city limits and is connected to the Metro and bus network, making it very convenient to travel to the city centre. The highest number of international flights depart from this airport. In Lisbon, the low-cost airlines arrival is handled by terminal one but passengers depart from terminal two The only way to go from terminal one to two is by a free coach.

Have a look at our full guide on Lisbon Airport here.

Porto Airport

More and more low-cost airlines travel to Porto and the number of flights from outside of Europe is increasing. The Porto airport is well-connected to the Metro and is easy for onward travel.

For more detailed information, read: Porto Airport

Faro Airport (Algarve Airport)

Faro is located in Algarve and is a beloved destination for tourists, especially from the UK. The number of flights and passenger levels fluctuates during the year with most travellers passing through the airport during the summer season.

There is almost no public transport from Faro airport, so you should think about the transportation to your accommodation prior to your flight.

Fo a full guide on getting to and from Faro Airport read:  The Algarve Airport: Tips to Plan Your Trip to The Algarve, Portugal

Driving in Portugal

As I previously mentioned, public transportation in Portugal is very convenient, fast and affordable, however, if you prefer to be more flexible and visit small towns and villages where otherwise you couldn’t get to, driving a car might be the best solution for you.

If you decide to rent a car , there are multiple car rental services you can choose from. Rentalcars is a good site where you can compare the prices between companies.

With most companies offering free cancellation, you can always get your money back if you spot a better offer or change your plans. Car hire is typically charged per 24-hour period. Whether you travel alone or with family or friends, you will find many options to choose from. You can find small cars for only €11.88 per day.

You might find cheap weekly deals, so try to change your search for seven days and see if it’s a better fit for you.

You should also be aware of toll roads in Portugal (website is in Portuguese). This means that you will be expected to pay to drive on certain roads. This is more frequent in the north of Portugal, but it is worth being aware of this for any trip you may take.

A car rental should include a chip on the windscreen to allow you to pass through the toll booths quickly. Sometimes they include these costs in the rental price and sometime you have to pay extra at the end. It’s worth asking the car rental company about this when you pick up your car.

Also, you should know that petrol/gas costs in Portugal are amongst the top 10 most expensive in Europe.

Taking taxi, Uber, Taxify or Cabify in Portugal

Taxis in portugal.

Most licensed taxis in Portugal will have a taxi sign on the roof and the driver’s identity will be displayed inside the cab. Lisbon’s taxis are painted black and green or cream. By law, all taxi fares are calculated using a taximeter, so always insist that the metre is running..

Are Lisbon cabs safe?

Yes. All drivers have to be registered and their registration card will be displayed in the car. You might find the driving culture different to what you are used to. But if you are a super cautious person, I would recommend using an app like MyTaxi (website is in Portuguese) where you can see the driver’s profile and reviews from other passengers.

The basic Lisbon taxi fare is €0.47 per km, and there is a minimum fare of €3.25 when you get in.

Uber in Portugal

Uber has become a very popular solution to turn to amongst tourists especially. The app is easy to use and the cost of the service is very low unlike in a lot of other European cities. Sometimes I pay only €3 to €4 for a 10 minute trip.

Find out more here: Uber in Portugal.

Other alternative taxi hailing apps

Taxify (now called bolt).

Bolt (formerly Taxify) taxi service has become very popular in Portugal, especially in Lisbon. Although they’re only offering €3 free credit to new customers, they’re usually one of the cheapest options overall.

Cabify is only present in Latin America, Spain and Portugal. This service is only available in Lisbon and Porto. The fare is relative cheap at €1.10 per kilometre.

Enjoy your journey with affordable transportation in Portugal

The best way to choose which method to use will be down to your destination. If you travel in between cities on a budget and you are in less of a rush, I would recommend travelling by bus, otherwise upgrading to a faster and more comfortable train is recommended.

For more flexibility on your journey and to get to more remote locations, driving a car is the best way. Just be aware of aspects like parking, tolls and fuel.

With the beautiful Portuguese scenery, most journeys regardless of method, can be a nice way to sit back and see Portugal on the move.

Let us know in the comments below if you have any question on transportation in Portugal.

• Getting around Portugal

Your Complete Guide to Carvoeiro in the Algarve, Portugal

Cruises in portugal: the top 6 cruise holidays you must take.

• How To Travel And Get...

How to Travel and Get Around in Portugal

Portugal is a small country that’s easy to travel through; even a road trip from the north near Spain to the southern Algarve region can be done in one day. There are also many public transportation routes that travel daily to each region, so renting a car isn’t always necessary.

Visit Portugal stress-free by joining Culture Trip’s specially curated nine-day Portugal adventure , which includes Lisbon, Porto, the Douro Valley and much more – led by our local insider.

Travelling by plane

There are three main airports in Portugal: the Porto airport in the north, the Lisbon Portela airport for travel to the centre region, and the Faro airport in the Algarve. The Lisbon airport is the primary entrance when coming from another country, but sometimes deals can be found for flights landing in Porto.

The national airline, TAP Air Portugal, often offers great prices when travelling internally, in addition to low prices and a variety of flight packages when you’re going abraod. Among their offers is the Stopover Programme, which lets passengers flying to Europe from the USA , Canada and Brazil add a free stop in Portugal on the way, for up to five days. Ryanair and EasyJet are two other low-cost options that also fly to (and through) Portugal.

Even when flying to the Azores and Madeira Island, there’s usually a deal you can find, and the Lisbon airport is the easiest departure point. Flights travel directly from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), Lajes (Terceira), Horta (Faial) and Santa Cruz (Madeira). Depending on which island you’re heading to, a flight can last from 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Travelling by train

Mainland Portugal has a great train system that travels daily to multiple parts of the country and within city limits. In Lisbon, the main stations include (but are not limited to) Oriente, Santa Apolonia, and Cais do Sodré; these are the stations that take you away from the capital. Anyone wanting to go to Sintra should hop on a train from the beautiful Rossio station , located at the Restauradores metro stop.

Train times can be purchased online. It’s also fine to wait and buy your ticket at the station before leaving. In some cases, for instance, when leaving from rural towns, tickets are purchased on the train. Ticket prices in Portugal are fairly average for southern Europe, and crossing the country usually costs between €20 and €30 (prices increase for high-speed trains). When travelling within a city, a one-way ticket costs less than €2.

Travelling by bus

Exploring by bus is the least expensive option and doesn’t take much longer than the train (sometimes, the bus can actually be quicker). It’s also an easy way to reach rural centres and small villages.

The main website for finding bus routes is Rede-Expressos. The bus stations usually have an office where tickets can be purchased, but there are situations when tickets are purchased from the driver, too. The best thing to do is ask someone where the ticket office is when reaching the station (called a bilhetaria). Although it’s not necessary to speak Portuguese fluently to travel solo, it’s good to have a basic understanding and to know a few key phrases .

Travel by tram

This is only an option when in Lisbon or Porto, but it’s certainly an unforgettable way to explore (and avoid hiking the hills).

Travelling by car

Of course, renting a car is always a possibility (unless you live in Portugal and already own one). This can actually be the most expensive option when moving from one region to another, especially when tolls are taken into consideration (make sure to have your coins handy), but it’s also a great way to see as much as possible.

Each city has their own taxi companies with pick-ups near central locations like bus and train stops. Also, applications like Cabify make calling a car easier, cheaper (normally costing less than a taxi) and more convenient.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

The most beautiful lakes in the world you can visit with culture trip.

Health & Wellness

Get your winter sun and wellbeing fix at vale do lobo, portugal.

See & Do

Beyond the douro: an alternative north portugal wine tour.

Reasons Why the Alentejo Is Portugal's Must-Visit Destination

Why Portugal is the Perfect Place for Golfers of All Levels

Behind the Scenes of Tremor: the World's Weirdest Music Festival

The Most Beautiful Wine Regions You Can Visit With Culture Trip

The Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Alentejo, Portugal

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Portugal

Local Insider - Culture Trip's Complete Portugal Highlights

The Most Delicious Sweet Treats to Try on a Culture Trip

The Best Live Music Experience You Can Have With Culture Trip

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1520843
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• How to get to Portugal

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• getting-there
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Just wanted to express my thanks to Joel and Rough Guides for a wonderful trip! Everything was well-chosen and we just loved all of the hotels, sightseeing...

There are regular direct flights to Lisbon , Faro and Porto from all over Europe and some US cities, though travellers from outside Europe may find it cheaper to fly via London and arrange onward travel from there.

Flights to Portugal from the UK and Ireland

Flights to portugal from the us and canada, flights to portugal from australia, new zealand and south africa, getting to portugal by train, travel to portugal overland from spain, driving to portugal from the uk, package holidays, tours and city breaks in portugal, specialist tour operators in portugal, tailor-made travel itineraries for portugal, created by local experts.

7 days  / from 3062 USD

Iberian Blend - Porto and Galicia

Neighbour countries - Portugal and Spain, different and similar at the same time, will surprise you with hospitality and loveliness. This itinerary includes the route of the Northwest part of Iberian Peninsula and offers you to meet beautiful Porto and stunning Vigo in Galicia/Spain.

7 days  / from 3019 USD

The Real Algarvian Experience

Experience and discover the real Algarve – taste local produce, drinks and traditional dishes, visit heritage sites and participate in culinary activities. If you are passionate about the people’s culture and gastronomy and want to learn more, this itinerary is for you.

11 days  / from 1728 USD

A self drive to Portugal's North and Center

Starting in fascinating Lisbon, this trip allows you to discover Portugal both on your own as well as with guided tours. Driving further up north you'll explore Coimbra and Porto before heading to the Douro Valley and Alentejo.

If you want to see some of France or Spain en route, or are taking a vehicle, there are overland combinations of ferry, rail and road to consider, though these nearly always work out pricier than flying. Package holidays and tours can be good value, whether it’s an Algarve beach holiday or escorted walking tour – and travel agents and specialist tour operators can also provide car rental, hotel bookings and other useful services.

Air, train and ferry fares are at their highest in school holidays and summer (basically Easter to September), and around Christmas/New Year and Easter week. The cheapest flights from the UK and Ireland are usually with the budget airlines, though watch out for the airport taxes, which can cost more than the flight itself, as well as additional charges for checked luggage and allocated seating. Major scheduled airlines are usually (though not always) more expensive, while specialist flight, discount or online agents can sometimes offer special student and youth fares plus a range of other travel-related services.

Flying to Faro, Lisbon or Porto takes two to three hours from airports around the UK and Ireland, and usually the cheapest flights are with budget airlines such as easyJet, Jet2 , Ryanair , Aer Lingus , Monarch Airlines , thomsonfly or flybe. Between them they fly direct from around twenty regional British airports, plus Belfast and Dublin, and although Faro on the Algarve is the most common destination you should be able to find a route that suits you. Not all routes are daily or year-round: some Algarve flights are summer-only, and other Lisbon or Porto routes have a reduced winter service. Fares vary wildly and, depending on promotions, can be as low as £50 or €65 each way, though you’ll have to travel off-peak and book a long time ahead to get this sort of deal. Around £120 total for a return flight is more common, but if you’re tied to school holidays or book late you’re likely to pay nearer £150–200 return.

The main scheduled airlines flying to Portugal are the national carriers TAP and British Airways : TAP flies regular services from London to Lisbon and Porto, while BA serves Lisbon and Faro. You’ll also be able to arrange add-on sections to London from regional UK airports. They are not necessarily more expensive than the budget airlines, and flight times may be more convenient – that said, you’re unlikely to get a rock-bottom deal and the fully flexible fares offered can run into the hundreds.

The only direct nonstop services from the United States are from New York (Newark) to Lisbon with United Airlines , Lufthansa or TAP , with fares starting at US$800 return. Flight time is around seven hours. From all other cities you’ll need a connecting flight, either via New York or via a European airport with airlines such as BA , Delta or Air France – in which case you can add four or five hours to your total travel time, depending on the connection. TAP can also arrange onward flights from Lisbon to Porto or Faro.

From Canada to Portugal, there are direct flights from Toronto with SATA and Air Canada ; flight time is 7–8 hours, and fares are around C$1400.

There are no direct flights to Portugal from Australia or New Zealand , but many airlines offer through-tickets with their partners via their European or Asian hubs. Flights via Asia are generally the cheaper option, but fares don’t vary as much between airlines as you might think, and in the end you’ll be basing your choice on things like flight timings, routes and possible stop-offs. If you’re seeing Portugal as part of a wider European trip, you might want to aim first for the UK, since there’s a wide choice of cheap flights to Portugal once there. Or consider a Round-the-World fare, with most basic options able to offer Lisbon as a standard stopover. There are no direct flights from South Africa , though you can fly with one of the major European airlines via their home hub.

Getting from London to Lisbon by train takes around 24 hours and involves taking the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, then Paris to Irun on the Spanish border by high-speed train (TGV) and finally the overnight Sud-Express “train-hotel”, which gets you into Lisbon at about 7.30am. It’s an enjoyable route, well worth considering, though the cheapest fares start at around £200 return (with couchette accommodation on the overnight train). For Porto you change at Coimbra, while there are also direct connections from Lisbon to the Algarve. The alternative route to Portugal is via Madrid – this takes two nights (overnight trains from Paris to Madrid and then Madrid to Lisbon), but gives you a day in Madrid en route. The overnight trains have seats (not really recommended) as well as couchettes and cabins complete with showers, plus restaurant, buffet bar and lounge.

For tickets , the best first stop is the excellent seat61.com, which provides full route, ticket, timetable and contact information. You can book the whole journey online with Loco 2 or Rail Europe . Information on rail passes (principally InterRail and Eurail), which have to be bought before leaving home is given in our " Getting around " section.

It’s easy to travel by train from Spain to Portugal, and there are some rewarding stops en route. Rail passes are valid, though you’ll be liable for supplements on many trains.

From Madrid (Chamartin station), the overnight Lusitania Trenhotel takes ten hours and thirty minutes to Lisbon (change at Entroncamento in Portugal for Coimbra and Porto). Prices start at €60 one-way, €96 return; for a second-class seat, or €84 one-way, €134 return; for the cheapest berth (four-bed cabin); there are also singles, doubles and first-class cabins ( gran classe )cabins available. Tickets can be bought in Madrid at Chamartin, through the Spanish ( renfe.es ) or Portuguese ( cp.pt ) railway companies’ websites.

From the northeast, the overnight Sud-Express from the French border at Hendaye/Irun to Lisbon (around 13hr) passes through San Sebastián (Donostia) and Salamanca, entering Portugal at Vilar Formoso in and then calling at Portugal’s highest town, Guarda; change at Coimbra for Porto. Tickets start at €40 one-way, €70 return, and again can be bought online or from agents.

From northwestern Spain, two trains a day connect Vigo in Galicia to Porto (around 3hr), passing the border at Tuy/Valença on the River Minho, then following the river and coast down via Viana do Castelo.

From Granada, Córdoba and Seville in southern Spain you are well placed to get a bus to the border at Ayamonte/Vila Real de Santo António, for onward transport by bus or train along the Algarve coast.

There are numerous other border road crossings , but if you’re in a rental car check first whether you’re covered to take the vehicle between countries. The major routes from Madrid or Salamanca make for an easy motorway drive to Portugal’s biggest cities, but there are some excellent minor routes into the country as well – like those from Zamora to Bragança or Miranda do Douro, or from Cáceres to Castelo Branco.

Driving the 2000km or so from the UK to Portugal, using the standard cross-Channel services or Eurotunnel through the Channel Tunnel, takes two full days. It’s not a cheap option (factoring in the cross-Channel trip, fuel, tolls, overnight stops and meals), but it is a good way of seeing France and Spain on the way.

The best way of cutting down the driving time is to catch the ferry to northern Spain, though this still leaves a six- to eight-hour drive before you reach Portugal. Brittany Ferries sails to Santander from Plymouth (1 weekly; 20hr) and Portsmouth (3 weekly; 24–32hr) and to Bilbao from Portsmouth (2 weekly; 24hr). The one-way fare for a car and two passengers starts at £430 from Plymouth to Santander, £424 from Portsmouth to Santander, and £410 to Bilbao, though in summer and school holidays prices can rocket. In winter the Brittany Ferries website often features special deals; note also that fares are cheaper for foot passengers (though everyone has to book some form of seating or cabin accommodation).

Standard package holidays concentrate on hotels and self-catering apartments and villas in the Algarve’s main beach resorts, and bargains can be found online or at any UK high-street travel agent for as little as £125 per person for a seven-night flight-and-accommodation package in the off-season . There are often really good deals for families, though obviously the more bells and whistles you want (beachfront accommodation, pool, kids’ clubs etc), the more you pay, while prices are always significantly higher during school holidays.

Other specialist tour operators offer a wide range of fly-drive holidays based around accommodation in historic manor houses and pousadas , while some feature activities such as birdwatching, horseriding, hiking, biking and wine tours. Prices vary wildly depending on the standard of accommodation, and whether the tours are fully inclusive or not (with guides and meals etc). Most tour operators should also be able to tailor-make a holiday, and arrange flights, accommodation, insurance and car rental.

City breaks are mainly to Lisbon, though you’ll also find Porto and even short breaks to the Algarve offered. UK prices start at around £200 for a three-day (two-night) break, including return flights and B&B in a modest hotel. Adding extra nights or upgrading your hotel is usually possible too. The bigger US operators, such as American Express and Delta Vacations, can also organize short city breaks to Lisbon on a flight-and-hotel basis.

09°West Portugal (211 991 086). Mid-price Lisbon-based company offering a range of birdwatching and walking tours throughout the country.

Arblaster & Clarke UK (01730 263111). Sophisticated, upmarket all-inclusive wine-tour specialist offering Douro vineyard walks, port-harvest trips and escorted Portugal tours.

Easy Rider Tours US (1 800 488 8332). Somewhat pricey guided cycling and sightseeing tours in various Portuguese regions, from a week along the Douro to a nine-day mountain-to-coast trip.

Equitour UK (0800 043 7942) & US (1 800 656 6163). Mid-price range horseriding holidays near Lisbon and in the Alentejo and Algarve – price includes accommodation, meals and transfers but not flights.

Formosmar Portugal (289 817 466). Inexpensive tours around the Ria Formosa in the Algarve, based around kayaking, cycling, walking and birdwatching.

Limosa Holidays UK (01692 580623). Upmarked operator offering birdwatching in the Alentejo and Algarve. There’s some walking involved, and the holidays include flights, meals and transport.

Martin Randall Travel UK (020 8742 3355). Leading cultural tour specialist, offering upmarket, expert-led trips either along the Douro by train and boat or to the historic centre of the country. Departures a couple of times a year.

Nature Trails Portugal (926 543 289). Inexpensive, guided and self-guided hikes and cycling trips, mostly in the south of the country.

Naturetrek UK (01962 733051). Mid-price outfit which offers seven- or eight-day spring and autumn botanical and birdwatching trips in the north and south of the country, including gentle walking.

Portugal Walks Portugal (965 753 033). A nice range of good-value group and individual guided and self-guided walking and cycling holidays throughout the country, ranging from four nights to a week. Flights not included.

Ramblers Worldwide Holidays UK (01707 331133). Long-established walking-holiday operator with inexpensive guided walking trips along the Douro, as well as the Algarve, Alentejo and the northern national and natural parks.

Related articles from the blog

The Rough Guides to Portugal and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Portugal

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Portugal

• Eating and drinking in Portugal
• Getting around Portugal: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Portugal
• Travel Tips Portugal for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Portugal

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Mani Ramaswamy

updated 17.04.2024

Ready to travel and discover Portugal?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

• Entertainment
• Rex Reed Reviews
• Awards Shows
• Climate Change
• Restaurants
• Gift Guides
• Business of Art
• Nightlife & Dining
• About Observer
• Advertise With Us

A Guide to Portugal’s Best Beach Towns

The famed and lesser known spots on and off Portugal’s stunning coast, from the Algarve to the Azores.

Portugal is the place to go at the moment. An approximately seven-hour flight from the East Coast, it’s one of the most accessible countries in Europe—but that’s not the only reason why it’s so popular. Portugal is a choose-your-own-adventure country; you can embark on a city exploration, wine tasting tour, action-packed adventure or beach retreat. The best part? You don’t need to pick just one. Everything is a short car ride, train or quick flight away. 

Planning a vacation around Portugal’s beach towns is one of the best ways to organize your trip. Each town offers a glimpse into a different side of the country, from the sweeping coastal capital, to the smaller southern regions, to the sunny islands. With picturesque beaches and an impressive culinary scene with plenty of fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone.  For those looking to narrow down the ample options of scenic towns, start with Lisbon, and then venture down the coast to the Algarve. The Azores—a collection of volcanic islands off of the mainland—are not to be missed.

Now, we present the best beach towns (and cities) in Portugal. Don’t forget to pick up a pastel de nata—or two—while you’re there.

Discover Portugal's Beach Town Hidden Gems

When you think of a beach town, a bustling city might not be the first thing to come to mind. Lisbon, however, defies expectations at every turn. As the only European capital along the Atlantic coast, Lisbon is as much a beach town as it is a cultural hub. There are a handful of famed museums—like the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and Museu Nacional do Azulejo —and you can admire the pastel-colored architecture of waterfront Belém. Walk to the suburbs of Alfama and Mouraria, along the hillside below the castle. For a home base, the luxurious Four Seasons Ritz is always a safe option. Slightly removed from the commotion of the city, the hotel serves as a relaxing retreat where you can venture up to the rooftop for a grand view of the ocean. After exploring the city and its local beaches, take a trip to the famed resort town of Sintra. Once a royal sanctuary, it now stands as a glamorous historical site, replete with palaces and sweeping vista points. It can be pretty chaotic, so we recommend booking a guide . Upon your return back to Lisbon, stop into Trinca —a hole in the wall local eater—or dine beachfront at Casa Reîa .

You can also visit Lisbon’s northern cousin, Porto, which is famed for its massive bridges and port wine production. Head to the medieval Ribeira district and meander through vibrant streets while observing the ornate architecture. Stay nearby at Gran Cruz House , which overlooks the Douro River. Go to Foz do Douro to experience the city’s buzzy beach, and follow it with drinks at one of the terrace cafés. You can also take a day trip down the coast to Nazaré and watch the surfers come from near and far to tackle the monster 100-foot waves.

Looking to escape the touristy crowds and up for a longer road trip? Smack in the middle of Lisbon and the Algarve (about an hour and forty minutes from the capital) is the lesser-known parish of Melides. The creative community of Melides is a stark contrast to its sceney neighbor, Comporta. An international set of famed artists—designers, painters, architects and more—have second homes in this humble town. You can pop into the quaint restaurants lining the main cobblestone square, opt for a wine tasting, or go horseback riding on the beach. Stay at the Christian Louboutin -designed Vermelho Hotel for one of the most uniquely ornate experiences; he has permanent residence in Melides. It’s an amalgamation of glamorous art and sleepy coastal streets. 

One of Europe’s quintessential beach towns is located just 45 minutes outside of Lisbon. Known for its silky sand and crystal waters, Cascais is the Portuguese Riviera’s top vacation spot. Choose a hotel that’s situated on the coast, like Relais & Châteaux’s Fortaleza de Guincho , which was built on the site of a 17th-century fortress and is home to an eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant. Make sure you squeeze in a cliffside lunch at The Albatroz Hotel overlook for unparalleled ocean views. To take full advantage of all the coastal town has to offer, book a sailboat that takes you along the Atlantic Ocean.

The Algarve is on everyone’s radar as of late, but the southernmost region of Portugal has been enticing travelers since the 15th century. The fishing villages of the past are now filled with restaurants, villas, hotels and bars, making this one of the liveliest beach areas in Europe.  For a bigger resort with a wide range of activities and experiences, book somewhere like Domes Lake Algarve . While you can venture to the beaches, the resort also offers activities in its surrounding lake. Bella Vista Hotel is a romantic oceanfront oasis featuring a L’Occitane spa. Make sure you visit the Bengali Caves on a kayak, paddle board or dolphin cruise from Portimão .  

Dubbed the “Hawaii of Europe,” the Azores are the talk of the travel industry. If you want to stick with just this region, there are five-hour direct flights from New York. The Azores are composed of nine volcanic islands, boasting breathtaking foliage and natural feats. Sao Miguel, the largest of the islands, has lake-filled caderas and Europe’s oldest tea plantation. The Azores archipelago also features lagoons, thermal springs and craters to explore, as well as ample whale watching. Two notable hotels include Octant Furnas and Santa Barbara (with its sister partner White serving as a romantic option for honeymooners). Santa Barbara is the Azores’ first eco-beach resort; a luxurious, calming retreat set amid green pastures and blue waters. For a spa-centric vacation, Octant Furnas is all about wellness, with thermal pools, treatment rooms and culinary and sensory experiences. Outside the hotel, there’s no shortage of epic experiences, from an ATV tour of the massive crater of Sete Cidades to canyoning and rappelling down waterfalls.

We noticed you're using an ad blocker.

We get it: you like to have control of your own internet experience. But advertising revenue helps support our journalism. To read our full stories, please turn off your ad blocker. We'd really appreciate it.

How Do I Whitelist Observer?

Below are steps you can take in order to whitelist Observer.com on your browser:

For Adblock:

Click the AdBlock button on your browser and select Don't run on pages on this domain .

For Adblock Plus on Google Chrome:

Click the AdBlock Plus button on your browser and select Enabled on this site.

For Adblock Plus on Firefox:

Click the AdBlock Plus button on your browser and select Disable on Observer.com.

9 Best Places to Go in Portugal for Couples

W ith its rich history, rugged coastal charm, and expansive beaches, Portugal is a paradise for couples seeking adventure and relaxation. Join me as I explore these romantic gems and more in this detailed guide to the best places to go in Portugal for couples.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Most Romantic Places to Visit in Portugal for Couples

Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through Porto’s cobblestone streets, each corner revealing another cozy wine bar or a stunning view of the Douro River. Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife and historic trams offer a perfect blend of excitement and heritage, while the Algarve’s Lagos enchants with its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. 

For wine lovers, the Douro Valley is unmatched, with its terraced vineyards and exquisite port wines. And for a fairytale adventure, there is no other destination than Sintra to add to your Portugal couple’s itinerary. 

Each romantic destination in Portugal is a unique gem, offering couples the chance to explore, indulge, and create unforgettable memories against a backdrop of unparalleled beauty and culture.

Porto, Portugal’s northern gem, captivates couples with its romantic allure, combining ancient charm with culinary delights. 

Start your journey at the Dom Luís I Bridge, where hand-in-hand, you can watch the sunset over the Douro River in hues of gold, offering a moment of serene connection. 

Venture into the heart of Porto to Taylor’s, one of the most esteemed port wine cellars. We recommend a guided tasting tour that reveals the intricacies of port wine production, enhancing your appreciation for Portugal’s iconic drink. 

For a memorable meal, dine at DOP by Rui Paula. The chef renowned for reinterpreting traditional Portuguese cuisine in a modern, romantic setting, perfect for a special evening. 

Don’t miss a visit to Livraria Lello in the Baixa neighborhood, one of the  best places to stay in Porto . This is often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, where its stunning staircase and enchanting ambiance inspire whispered conversations and shared dreams. 

Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, is a treasure trove of experiences for couples seeking romance amid its historic streets and modern vibe. 

Begin your exploration in Alfama, the city’s oldest and one of the most romantic  neighbourhoods in Lisbon , where the narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music bars create an intimate atmosphere for evening outings.

For a touch of luxury, stay at Memmo Alfama , a boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Tagus River and a secluded feel within the city’s historic heart.

Take a leisurely ride on Tram 28, which weaves through Lisbon’s picturesque neighborhoods, providing a charming way to see the city’s highlights together. Stop at Belém to sample the iconic Pastéis de Belém , a sweet treat that’s best enjoyed in the company of your significant other.

For dinner, venture to Time Out Market Lisboa , where you can indulge in a gastronomic journey sampling dishes from some of Portugal’s finest chefs, making for a lively and delicious shared experience.

Cap off a day of exploration at Park , a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of the city and a cozy spot to enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets, wrapping up your day in romance and beauty. 

3. Lagos, Algarve

Lagos, nestled in the heart of the Algarve Coast, is a paradise for couples in search of sun, sea, and secluded spots. Renowned for its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs, this  best Algarve town  offers the perfect setting for romance. 

Begin your stay in this romantic Portugal destination at Casa Mãe , a boutique hotel that boasts a blend of traditional Portuguese architecture and modern design, providing a peaceful retreat just a short walk from Lagos’ vibrant centre.

Spend your days exploring the secluded coves of Ponta da Piedade by kayak , navigating through crystal-clear waters and discovering hidden beaches accessible only by water. This adventure offers couples a unique way to connect with nature and each other in a serene setting.

For an unforgettable dining experience, book a table at Orta , where the focus on fresh, local ingredients and inventive dishes complement the intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for a romantic evening.

Don’t miss a sunset stroll along Meia Praia, a vast stretch of golden sand where the setting sun paints the sky in vibrant colors, offering a picturesque end to your day. 

4. Douro Valley

The Douro Valley , Portugal’s famed wine region, is a haven for couples drawn to the romance of rolling vineyards and world-class wines. 

Embark on a journey through the valley aboard a traditional Rabelo boat , cruising along the Douro River with the vine-covered hills unfolding around you. This peaceful experience offers a picturesque backdrop for memorable moments together.

For an intimate vineyard experience, visit Quinta do Crasto , known for its stunning infinity pool overlooking the Douro and its exceptional range of wines. Here, you can enjoy a private tour and tasting, learning about the wine-making process while sampling some of the region’s finest exports.

Stay at Quinta da Pacheca , a wine estate turned boutique hotel, where you can sleep in barrel-shaped suites for a truly unique experience amidst the vineyards. This romantic setting not only promises tranquility but also immerses you in the heart of Portugal’s wine culture.

Coimbra, a city steeped in history and academic tradition, offers a romantic backdrop for couples who revel in culture and charm. 

A visit to the University of Coimbra is a must, where you can explore one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. The stunning Joanina Library, with its opulent baroque decor, provides a setting so enchanting that it feels like stepping into another era. It is perfect for couples who appreciate the romance of history.

End your day with a visit to Fado ao Centro , a cozy venue dedicated to Coimbra’s unique style of Fado music. The intimate performances of this deeply emotional and traditional Portuguese music provide a soul-stirring backdrop for an evening spent together, capturing the romantic spirit of Coimbra. 

Nestled within ancient walls, Óbidos exudes a timeless charm that captivates couples at first sight. This medieval town is one of the most romantic places to visit in Portugal with its cobblestone streets and charming corners. 

For those seeking a cozy retreat, the Pousada Castelo de Óbidos offers enchanting accommodations within the castle walls, blending history with luxury.

Walking through Óbidos, the vibrant bougainvillea and whitewashed houses create a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. The town is famous for its cherry liqueur, Ginjinha. This is best enjoyed in a chocolate cup from one of the local vendors, offering a sweet moment to share.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the town’s bookshops, including the unique Livraria de Santiago , housed in a former church, providing a quaint backdrop for discovering new reads together. 

Sintra , a town set amidst the lush Sintra Mountains on the Lisbon Coast, is known for its enchanting palaces and mystical gardens that seem to emerge straight from a fairy tale. Couples are drawn to the romantic ambiance of Pena Palace , with its vivid colors and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, offering a spectacular backdrop for memorable photos together in one of the top destinations in Portugal for couples.

Stay at the Tivoli Palácio de Seteais , an 18th-century palace turned luxury hotel, where elegance and history blend seamlessly, providing an opulent retreat after a day of exploration. 

A visit to the Quinta da Regaleira , with its gothic architecture, deep wells, and hidden tunnels, offers an adventure into the mystical. The gardens are perfect for leisurely walks, uncovering secret paths and romantic hideaways.

Cascais, once a quaint fishing village and now a sophisticated seaside escape, offers couples a blend of natural beauty and chic leisure. Stroll along the palm-framed promenade of Passeio Marítimo, which leads to the scenic Boca do Inferno. This is where the sea powerfully crashes against the cliffs, creating a dramatic natural spectacle ideal for witnessing together during sunset.

For a taste of culture, the Paula Rego House of Stories museum showcases the intriguing work of the renowned Portuguese painter in a building as captivating as the art it houses. It’s a spot where couples can share their interpretations and insights, adding depth to their visit.

Cascais’ historic centre, with its labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, is filled with artisan shops and seafood restaurants. Dining here, especially at spots like Mar do Inferno , offers not just exquisite local dishes but also views over the Atlantic, making every meal a romantic event.

Evora, nestled in the heart of Alentejo , stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich history, offering couples a journey through time. This UNESCO World Heritage city is home to the Roman Temple of Evora, one of the best-preserved Roman structures on the Iberian Peninsula, providing a majestic backdrop for exploration and photography.

A visit to the Chapel of Bones, with its eerie yet fascinating interior adorned with human bones, offers a unique experience that is both thought-provoking and memorable. 

For a leisurely afternoon, the public garden Jardim Público de Évora offers a serene escape with its lush greenery and small ponds, perfect for a romantic picnic or a quiet stroll.

Evora’s historic centre, characterized by its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, is ideal for exploring hand in hand, discovering local crafts, and tasting regional specialties like the rich and savory Alentejo cuisine in traditional restaurants such as Taberna Típica Quarta-Feira , known for its authentic dishes and warm atmosphere.

Best Places to Go in Portugal for Couples Final Thoughts

Exploring the best places to visit in Portugal for couples unveils a plethora of romantic experiences. From the enchanting wine tours of Porto to the serene beaches of the Algarve and the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, Portugal is a haven for lovers. 

These spots promise memorable moments, blending cultural richness with natural beauty, ideal for couples looking to deepen their connection amidst Portugal’s scenic landscapes and vibrant cities.

About the author: Haley is the creator of the Portugal travel blog,  Where to Stay Portugal . She has been visiting Portugal since 2012 and has now called it her part-time home since 2021. Haley writes knowledgeable in-depth travel guides about the best places to stay in Portugal, providing first-hand experience for her readers.

The post 9 Best Places to Go in Portugal for Couples appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

Should I Exchange Money Before Traveling To Portugal?

• Last updated May 13, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

When preparing for a trip abroad, there are many important factors to consider, such as accommodations, transportation, and activities. One question that often arises is whether or not to exchange money before traveling to the destination country. This decision can be particularly crucial when visiting Portugal, a beautiful country in Southern Europe known for its rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant cities. With its own currency, the euro, travelers may wonder if it's best to exchange money before arrival or wait until they arrive in Portugal. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of exchanging money before traveling to Portugal, helping you make an informed decision for your journey.

What You'll Learn

Currency exchange rates in portugal, benefits of exchanging money before traveling to portugal, risks of exchanging money before traveling to portugal, alternatives to exchanging money before traveling to portugal.

If you're planning a trip to Portugal, one of the things you'll need to consider is how to handle your currency exchange. Here are some important things to know about currency exchange rates in Portugal:

• The official currency in Portugal is the Euro (€). This means that you'll need to exchange your local currency for Euros in order to make purchases or use ATMs in Portugal.
• It's a good idea to exchange at least some currency before you travel to Portugal. This way, you'll have some cash on hand to use upon arrival. It's common to exchange currency at your local bank or a foreign currency exchange service. You can also exchange currency at the airport in Portugal, but be aware that airport exchange rates may be higher.
• Before exchanging your money, it's important to research the current exchange rates. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so it's best to choose a time to exchange when the rates are in your favor. Online currency converters provide up-to-date exchange rates that can help you decide the best time to make your exchange.
• Keep in mind that currency exchange services may charge fees or commissions for their services. These fees can vary, so it's a good idea to shop around and compare rates before making your exchange. Some banks may offer better rates than standalone currency exchange services.
• Another option to consider is using ATMs in Portugal to withdraw cash in Euros. Check with your bank to see if they have any international partners or alliances that may help you avoid hefty ATM withdrawal fees. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand in case of emergency or if you encounter a place that doesn't accept credit cards.
• When using your credit or debit card in Portugal, be aware of any foreign transaction fees that may be applied. These fees can add up quickly, so it's advisable to check with your bank or credit card company to understand their policies before you travel.
• It's also worth noting that many places in Portugal, especially larger cities and tourist areas, accept credit cards. However, smaller establishments like cafes, markets, or local shops may only accept cash. Having some cash on hand will ensure that you can cover your expenses in any situation.

In conclusion, it's generally a good idea to exchange some currency before you travel to Portugal. Doing so will provide you with the convenience of having cash readily available upon arrival. Keep in mind that exchange rates fluctuate, so it's important to research the current rates and compare fees and commissions before making your exchange. With a little bit of planning, you'll be well-prepared to handle your currency exchange needs while enjoying your trip to Portugal.

The Ideal Number of Players on an U8 Travel Soccer Team

You may want to see also

If you are planning a trip to Portugal, one important consideration is how to handle your currency exchange. While it is possible to exchange money upon arrival in Portugal, there are several benefits to exchanging money before you travel. In this blog post, we will discuss these benefits and explain why exchanging money before your trip can save you time and money.

One of the main advantages of exchanging money before your trip is that you can take advantage of better exchange rates. When you exchange currency at your local bank or a reputable currency exchange service, you are likely to get a more favorable rate compared to exchanging money at the airport or in Portugal. These institutions have access to competitive rates and lower fees, which can help you save money in the long run.

Exchanging money before your trip also allows you to avoid the hassle of finding a currency exchange office upon arrival. When you exchange money beforehand, you can arrive in Portugal with local currency in hand, making it easier to pay for transportation, meals, and other expenses right away. This convenience can save you time and eliminate the need to search for a currency exchange office while you are still adjusting to a new country.

Another benefit of exchanging money before your trip is that it provides you with a clear budget for your spending. By exchanging a set amount of money before you leave, you can better control your expenses and avoid overspending. It can be tempting to withdraw cash frequently from ATMs while travelling, but this can result in extra charges and hidden fees. By planning ahead and exchanging your money in advance, you can have a better understanding of how much you have to spend and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Additionally, exchanging money before your trip gives you peace of mind knowing that you have local currency readily available. This is especially useful if you plan to travel to remote areas or places with limited access to ATMs or credit card machines. By having cash on hand, you can ensure that you are prepared for any situation and can easily pay for goods and services without any issues.

In summary, exchanging money before your trip to Portugal can offer numerous benefits. By obtaining a more favorable exchange rate, avoiding the hassle of finding a currency exchange office, having a clear budget, and ensuring that you have local currency readily available, you can have a more relaxed and enjoyable trip. So, before you embark on your journey, make sure to consider exchanging money beforehand for a smoother and more cost-effective travel experience.

Why You Need a Travel Visa to Enter South Korea

If you are planning a trip to Portugal, one of the questions you may have is whether you should exchange money before you travel. While it can be convenient to have local currency on hand when you arrive, there are also risks associated with exchanging money before your trip. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the potential risks of exchanging money before traveling to Portugal.

• Exchange Rate Fluctuations: One of the main risks of exchanging money before your trip is that exchange rates can fluctuate. The value of currencies can change quickly, especially during times of economic uncertainty. If you exchange your money too early, you may end up getting a less favorable exchange rate than if you had waited until you arrived in Portugal. On the other hand, if you exchange your money too late, you may miss out on a favorable exchange rate.
• Commission and Fees: When you exchange money at a bank or currency exchange, you may be subject to commission fees or service charges. These fees can vary depending on where you exchange your money and can eat into the amount you receive. By waiting to exchange your money until you arrive in Portugal, you may be able to find a better deal or avoid these fees altogether.
• Security: Carrying large amounts of cash can also be a security risk. If you exchange a significant amount of money before your trip, you will need to take precautions to keep it safe. This can include using a money belt, locking it in a hotel safe, or constantly keeping an eye on it. By waiting to exchange your money until you arrive in Portugal, you can reduce the amount of cash you need to carry and minimize the risk of theft or loss.
• Convenience: Exchanging money before your trip can be convenient, as you will have local currency on hand as soon as you arrive. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Not only do you need to find a reliable place to exchange your money, but you also need to calculate how much you will need for your trip. If you exchange too little, you may find yourself scrambling to find an ATM or currency exchange in Portugal. If you exchange too much, you will need to carry around extra cash or go through the process of exchanging it back into your home currency after your trip.

In conclusion, there are several risks associated with exchanging money before traveling to Portugal. Exchange rate fluctuations, commission and fees, security concerns, and convenience are all factors to consider when deciding whether to exchange money before your trip. While it can be convenient to have local currency on hand, waiting until you arrive in Portugal may help you get a better exchange rate, avoid fees, and reduce security risks. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and your comfort level with carrying cash.

Unlocking the Secrets: How to Change the Code on Your Travelling Box

When traveling to a foreign country like Portugal, it's essential to make sure you have the local currency, the Euro, to ensure a smooth trip. While many people choose to exchange money before they travel, there are alternatives available that can save you time, money, and hassle. In this blog post, we will explore some alternatives to exchanging money before traveling to Portugal.

• Use Local ATMs: One of the most cost-effective ways to get cash in Portugal is by using local ATMs. Make sure to check with your bank about any international withdrawal fees, and inform them about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being blocked. Additionally, ATMs in Portugal often offer competitive exchange rates, making it a convenient option for getting cash.
• Credit and Debit Cards: Most establishments in Portugal, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, accept major credit and debit cards. Before you leave, contact your card issuer to inform them about your travel plans. Check if they charge any foreign transaction fees and ask for recommendations on the best cards to use in Portugal. Using your card can save you the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash and gives you additional protection against theft.
• Currency Exchange at Banks: If you prefer to have some cash on hand, consider exchanging a small amount at a bank in Portugal. Banks typically offer competitive rates compared to currency exchange offices found in airports or tourist areas. Keep in mind that banks may charge a small commission fee for the service, so it's advisable to exchange larger sums to minimize fees.
• Prepaid Travel Cards: Another option is to use prepaid travel cards, which allow you to load money onto the card before your trip. Travel cards can often be used like credit or debit cards, and you can withdraw cash from ATMs as needed. These cards usually offer competitive exchange rates and provide security features like PIN protection and the ability to lock funds if the card gets lost or stolen.
• Peer-to-Peer Currency Exchange: Peer-to-peer currency exchange platforms like TransferWise or Revolut offer competitive rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. These platforms allow users to exchange money directly with others, cutting out intermediaries and reducing costs. Make sure to research and compare different platforms to find one that suits your needs.

No matter which alternative method you choose, it's always a good idea to have a mix of payment options in case of emergency. It's also important to keep some cash on hand for smaller establishments that may not accept cards, such as local markets or small cafes. By researching and considering the alternatives to exchanging money before traveling to Portugal, you can save money, minimize fees, and enjoy a worry-free trip.

The Best Accommodations for Solo Travelers in Seminyak

Frequently asked questions.

• Alain Brady Author Reviewer

• Cagri Burak Author Reviewer Traveller

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Leave a comment

Travel photos, related posts.

Do the LDU Baseball and Softball Teams Travel Together?

• May 10, 2024

Ensuring Your Trustworthiness: How to Check if You Qualify as a Trusted Traveler

• May 11, 2024

Understanding the Caribbean's Travel Visa Requirements

• Apr 11, 2024

Exploring the Enchanting City of Macau: Can You Travel With a Chinese Visa?

• Mar 21, 2024

Traveling Without a Visa: Exploring the Benefits for Green Card Holders

• Apr 01, 2024

Mastering the Art of Writing a Convincing Travel History for Canada Visa

• May 05, 2024

More From Forbes

What you need to know when traveling for taylor swift’s eras tour.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

US singer and songwriter Taylor Alison Swift, also known as Taylor Swift performs on stage at the ... [+] Paris La Defense Arena as part of her The Eras Tour, in Nanterre, north-western France, on May 9, 2024.

Taylor Swift thrilled fans with the addition of performances from her latest album The Tortured Poets Department when she kicked off the European leg of The Eras Tour in Paris on Thursday, May 9, 2024. She jokingly called that section of the show Female Rage: The Musical . Most concertgoers already knew and sang along to every word of all the songs she sang from the album even though it was released just a few weeks earlier on April 19. Such is the power of Swift.

In her long career of riveting live shows, her stunning performance of “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?” may very well be her masterpiece so far. Swift is enjoying unprecedented success with her latest albums and tour, which showcase how she can tell a story like no other artist. Both her singing voice and her literary voice are stronger than ever, and it’s joyful to watch Swift embody and embrace her mightiness as a performer.

It's no wonder many fans are willing to travel hundreds or even thousands of miles for the chance to see Taylor Swift perform live. Since tickets sold out so quickly for the few remaining U.S. tour dates and resellers are aware of the intense demand, some fans discovered it was more doable to attend one of her international shows.

So, many fans in the U.S. and other countries have decided to make a vacation out of going to The Eras Tour in Europe this summer. If you are among them, here’s some advice on how to make the most of your international adventure.

It s Possible The Russian Army Is Tricking The Ukrainian Army With A Fake Offensive

Ufc st louis results bonus winners from night of memorable finishes, vasiliy lomachenko vs. george kambosos results: winner, ko, reaction.

PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 09: Taylor Swift performs onstage during "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at La ... [+] Defense on May 09, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management )

Consider Your Lodging and Transportation Choices First

Before buying a ticket, be sure that you will have accommodations available. If you can book a hotel that’s within walking distance of a stadium and know the area is safe, that is ideal. Otherwise, check bus and train schedules for the night of your venue, then look at hotels that might be close to bus or train stops.

With tens of thousands of fellow concertgoers leaving at the same time, transportation can get tricky. If you book a room that’s farther from the venue, try to get a rental car instead of vying for a taxi or rideshare after the show. If you do that, just be sure parking will be available. You may need to buy a parking pass from the venue.

Also be aware that hotel room prices skyrocket when Swift is in town because there is such a high demand. If you are renting a car and don’t mind a longer drive, you can save a lot of money by booking a hotel room that’s a longer drive from the venue.

Enjoy The Moment

Amy Wilkinson, a 49-year-old Swiftie from Tucson, AZ, went viral in December 2023 for her reenactments of The Eras Tour performances using Elf on the Shelf dolls. She posted them to her Instagram, @Tswizzle_Momma , and found thousands of people watching each time she posted her videos. Like many other Swifties in the US, she is flying to Europe for The Eras Tour.

Wilkinson told me she had this advice for fellow fans going to the show abroad, “Enjoy the entire experience, from the moment you get on the plane until the morning after. You may be going for the concert, but the memories are made in the details. See the sights. Enjoy the food. Meet other Swifties. This is at the heart of what international travel is about.”

Make The Friendship Bracelets

Rebecca Bartley, a Swiftie from Nova Scotia, Canada, is going to Sweden to see The Eras Tour. She advises bringing friendship bracelets to share with fellow concertgoers on the night of your show. Wilkinson suggested making friendship bracelets in the language of the country where you’ll be seeing the show.

MARINA DEL REY, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 13: A Taylor Swift fan, friendship bracelet detail, attends the ... [+] opening night theatrical release of "Taylor Swift : The Eras Tour" at AMC Marina Marketplace 6 on October 13, 2023 in Marina del Rey, California. (Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)

It’s easy to learn how to make friendship bracelets. I had never dabbled in making jewelry before, but now I find great joy in creating friendship bracelets. I created dozens and handed them to fans at The Eras Tour movie.

To make friendship bracelets, I start by choosing the colors I want and which word or phrase I want the bracelet to express. Then I choose colorful beads and pick out all the necessary letter beads.

Next, I cut off elastic string. I find it’s best to use Stretch Magic elastic string because of its strength and durability. To make the bracelets, I cut off a piece of string that’s twice as long as I need so that there is ample room for cutting and tying multiple knots.

Then I tape one end of the string to my workspace, string the beads I have set aside until I feel like the bracelet is complete. Being careful to not let any of the beads slide off the string, I then wrap it around my wrist to see how it fits and then consider whether I am making the bracelet for a wrist that’s likely larger or smaller than mine. (Also, with elastic string, there’s room for a flexible fit.) I adjust accordingly.

As a last step, I make four to five knots in the string to tie off the bracelet. Many fans choose to add a dab of fabric glue to the end of the knot, but I found that got really messy and wasn’t necessary if you make multiple knots. Then I tuck the knots into one of the beads so that it doesn’t show on the bracelet. Then the bracelet is concert-ready!

Keep in mind that there are a lot of other ways to make friendship bracelets that are for more involved and creative that mine. And, if the idea of making friendship bracelets doesn’t sound fun to you, don’t worry. You can buy premade friendship bracelets on Etsy. Some Etsy shops like RainFoxx13 and BonniesBracelet have elaborate, beautiful friendship bracelets that you may want to keep for yourself. Others sell packs of friendship bracelets in bulk.

If you don’t want to trade friendship bracelets, that’s okay, too. The Swiftie community is accepting and supportive, and you still may get several bracelets as gifts.

What To Wear To The Eras Tour

There are no rules for what you should wear to Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour beyond the guidelines from the venue. Some fans go casual, and others choose to dress to the nines for the show. Some fans choose to wear merch from Taylor Swift’s official store . Many fans choose to dress up in costumes inspired by Swift’s songs and lyrics.

With the release of The Tortured Poets Department and its video “Fortnight,” some fans are choosing to imitate some of her looks from the video. Others are wearing their interpretation of the incredible costumes she wears during The Eras Tour concert. Others look at past eras for inspiration. You are likely to see every era represented in fan costumes at a show.

What You Should Bring To The Eras Tour In Europe

Wilkinson advised me that the number one thing to bring is a portable phone charger. If you plan on recording video and taking photos, your phone’s battery may die down quickly, and a phone charger can ensure you can keep capturing the memories all night.

Earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to loud noise. If you’re bringing kids along, they are a must. They ensure you can enjoy the music while protecting your ears.

Bring along a cardigan or jacket. Layering is a good idea for a concert during the summer. Although it may be hot in the stadium, you might be chilly on the way home from the show.

You can’t go wrong bringing along hand sanitizer and a travel pack of tissues. Even if you can get through “All Too Well” without tearing up, you may cry at the sheer excitement of the experience. It can be intense in the best way.

If you have tickets that are far back, bring along binoculars to see close-up details.

What To Avoid At The Eras Tour

Don’t come to the stadium with a big bag. If you haven’t attended stadium concerts before, you may not know that you need to carry a clear bag if you want to bring a purse. It also has to fit within the measurements allowed in the stadium, so you can’t just buy a clear backpack and expect to get in the show. Check with your show’s venue to make sure you follow their rules for what you can bring.

What Are The Dates Of The Eras Tour 2024 In Europe?

Taylor Swift started the European leg of The Eras Tour in Paris on May 9, 2024. Here are all the dates for The Eras Tour that are scheduled for the rest of 2024.

Thursday, May 9, 2024 – París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Friday, May 10, 2024 - París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Saturday, May 11, 2024 - París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Sunday, May 12, 2024 - París La Défense Arena - Paris, France

Friday, May 17, 2024 – Friends Arena - Stockholm, Sweden

Saturday, May 18, 2024 - Friends Arena - Stockholm, Sweden

Sunday, May 19, 2024 - Friends Arena - Stockholm, Sweden

Friday, May 24, 2024 - Estádio da Luz – Lisbon, Portugal

Saturday, May 25. 2024 - Estádio da Luz – Lisbon, Portugal

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - Estádio Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain

Thursday, May 30, 2024 - Estádio Santiago Bernabéu – Madrid, Spain

Sunday, June 2, 2024 - Groupama Stadium - Lyon, France

Monday, June 3, 2024 - Groupama Stadium - Lyon, France

Friday, June 7, 2024 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium - Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Saturday, June 8, 2024 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium - Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Sunday, June 9, 2024 - Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium - Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Thursday, June 13, 2024 - Anfield Stadium - Liverpool, United Kingdom

Friday, June 14, 2024 - Anfield Stadium - Liverpool, United Kingdom

Saturday, June 15, 2024 - Anfield Stadium - Liverpool, United Kingdom

Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Principality Stadium - Cardiff, United Kingdom

Friday, June 21, 2024 - Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom

Saturday, June 22, 2024 - Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom

Sunday, June 23, 2024 - Wembley Stadium in London, United Kingdom

Friday, June 28, 2024 - Aviva Stadium - Dublin, Ireland

Saturday, June 29, 2024 - Aviva Stadium - Dublin, Ireland

Sunday, June 30, 2024 - Aviva Stadium - Dublin, Ireland

Thursday, July 4, 2024 - Johan Cruijff Arena - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Friday, July 5, 2024 - Johan Cruijff Arena - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Saturday, July 6, 2024 - Johan Cruijff Arena - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Tuesday, July 9, 2024 - Stadion Letzigrund Zurich - Zürich, Switzerland

Wednesday, July 20, 2024 - Stadion Letzigrund Zurich - Zürich, Switzerland

Saturday, July 13, 2024 - San Siro Stadium - Milan, Italy

Sunday, July 14, 2024 - San Siro Stadium - Milan, Italy

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 - Veltins-Arena - Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Thursday, July 18, 2024 - Veltins-Arena - Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Friday, July 19, 2024 - Veltins-Arena - Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 - Volksparkstadion - Hamburg, Germany

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 - Volksparkstadion - Hamburg, Germany

Saturday, July 27, 2024 - Olympiastadion - Munich, Germany

Sunday, July 28, 2024 - Olympiastadion - Munich, Germany

Thursday, August 1, 2024 - PGE Narodowy - Warsaw, Poland

Friday, August 2, 2024 - PGE Narodowy - Warsaw, Poland

Saturday, August 3, 2024 - PGE Narodowy - Warsaw, Poland

Thursday, August 8, 2024 - Ernst-Happel-Stadion - Vienna, Austria

Friday, August 9, 2024 - Ernst-Happel-Stadion - Vienna, Austria

Saturday, August 10, 2024 - Ernst-Happel-Stadion - Vienna, Austria

Thursday, August 15, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Friday, August 16, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Saturday, August 17, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Monday, August 19, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Tuesday, August 20, 2024 - Wembley Stadium - London, United Kingdom

Friday, October 18, 2024 – Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida, United States

Saturday, October 19, 2024 - Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida, United States

Sunday, October 20, 2024 - Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida, United States

Friday, October 25, 2024 – Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Saturday, October 26, 2024 - Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Sunday, October 27, 2024 - Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Friday, November 1, 2024 – Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Saturday, November 2, 2024 - Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Sunday, November 3, 2024 - Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Thursday, November 14, 2024 – Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Friday, November 15, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Thursday, November 22, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Friday, November 22, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Saturday, November 23, 2024 - Rogers Centre – Toronto, Canada

Friday, December 6, 2024 – BC Place – Vancouver, Canada

Saturday, December 7, 2024 - BC Place – Vancouver, Canada

Sunday, December 8, 2024 - BC Place – Vancouver, Canada

For more information about the forthcoming shows, see the tour page of Taylor Swift’s official website .

How To Get Taylor Swift Tickets In 2024

Tickets have already gone on sale for the rest of the currently confirmed dates of The Eras Tour for 2024. However, you can get secondhand tickets from resellers. It’s usually not a good idea to buy from individuals in Facebook groups offering to sell tickets. That’s hard to verify, and many are scammed that way. Instead, check with the individual venue to see how their resell process works. It varies throughout Europe depending on the country and the individual stadium.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

The best ways to travel around in Lisbon

Jul 16, 2023 • 9 min read

See the best of Lisbon with this guide to the local transport network © MesquitaFMS / Getty Images

Despite all the hills and cobbles, Lisbon is an easy city to navigate.

Its impressive and intuitive system of buses, trams and suburban trains, and an efficient metro, make it easy to travel between major points of interest. To conquer the famous seven hills of Lisbon, you can rely on funiculars and elevators – the city's most iconic forms of transportation.

Obviously, you'll want to spend some time exploring the historic Portuguese capital on foot, but it would be bad form to leave Lisbon without taking a ride on Tram 28E, which winds through the historic center, providing a low-cost city tour. Here are the best ways to get around Lisbon.

Walking is the best way to see individual neighborhoods

Lisboetas love their early morning and late afternoon riverside strolls, and plenty of visitors also slip on comfortable walking shoes to explore Lisbon's historic neighborhoods on foot. Navigating the maze of narrow and hilly streets, courtyards and staircases in Alfama, Mouraria and Madragoa can be a challenge in the summer heat, but the experience is at the top of most visitors’ must-do lists . Remember that flat, riverside neighborhoods such as Baixa, Cais do Sodré, Belém and Oriente are more manageable and just as picturesque!

The black-and-white patterns of the city's calçada portuguesa (Portuguese pavements) are one of Lisbon’s calling cards, but be aware this is not the most walking-friendly surface in wet weather. The slick cobblestones can become slippery and are especially treacherous when making steep, downhill strides.

Zap your way around with the Viva Viagem travel pass

The same travel card allows access to the metro and all buses, trains, boats and trams serving Lisbon and neighboring cities, saving money compared to fares paid on-board. The Viva Viagem green card costs €0.50 and is available at vending machines and ticket offices at metro, train and boat stations (there's also a white card, but it's not valid on Metro Transportes do Sul). Top up the card with credit and swipe the card over the sensor to pay on public transport – this is known locally as "zapping."

If you're planning on traveling a lot by public transit in one day, add a 24-hour ticket to your Viva Viagem card. You'll need to buy the right 24-hour ticket combination for all the types of transport you’re planning to use. The simplest combination – known as Carris/Metro – allows you to travel using the same ticket on buses, trams, elevators, funiculars and the metro for €6.60.

CityMapper is the best map and public transport app for travelers to Lisbon, and locals use it frequently. There are also other third-party and government apps, but they aren’t updated as often and don’t work as well.

The metro network is efficient

Lisbon's efficient metro network has four lines, serving the airport (Red Line), Baixa and Chiado (Blue Line), Mouraria and Alvalade (Green Line), and Saldanha and Campo Pequeno (Yellow Line). The Red Line intersects with the other three lines, so it's easy to interchange between lines.

Overall, the metro is easy to navigate, and plans are underway to expand the network to reach neighborhoods such as Belém and Campo de Ourique. However, the metro is not available 24/7; there's a break in services from 1am to 6am. Check your intended itinerary on a map before catching the metro; it’s often quicker to walk between stations, particularly on the Yellow, Blue and Green lines.

On the other hand, the metro is by far the easiest option for reaching points of interest farther from the city center such as Lisbon Zoo (Sete Rios), the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian (São Sebastião) and Parque das Nações (Oriente).

The city is becoming more bike-friendly

Determined to make the city more bicycle-friendly, Lisbon's city planners have put a lot of effort into increasing the number of cycle paths. Drivers, however, are still not used to sharing the road, so this is a transition that is still in progress. If you don't have experience of navigating rogue traffic on two wheels, it’s probably best to stay on riverside paths away from the cars.

To find a bike in the city, download Gira , Lisbon City Council’s official bike-sharing app. It's widely used by locals and tourists, with dozens of bike stations dotted around the center. Prices vary depending on the type of pass that you sign up for, but as a guideline, a visitor using the Daily Pass would get the first 45-minute ride for free, with a charge of €2 for the next 45 minutes. You can also rent e-bikes and scooters through Lime (from Uber) and Bolt.

Buses can get crowded

Lisbon’s bus routes are fairly intuitive, but as buses are one of the forms of public transportation used most frequently by locals, they can get crowded. If you can, avoid catching buses during rush hour, when passengers are bound to be packed in as tightly as the city’s famous sardines.

Buses 728 (Oriente–Belém), 714 (Praça da Figueira–Belém) and 737 (Praça da Figueira–Castelo) are all useful routes for visitors to Lisbon, serving the areas with the most attractions, particularly Belém, Parque das Nações and the historical neighborhoods of Mouraria and Alfama.

Tram 28E offers the perfect tourist route 

Everyone knows about Tram 28E, which weaves an atmospheric path through the historic neighborhoods of Mouraria, Alfama and Graça, but you can hop on any of the other old trams for a similarly rewarding experience. Recommended routes include the 12E (Martim Moniz), 18E (Cais do Sodré–Ajuda), 24E (Praça Luís de Camões–Campolide) and 25E (Praça da Figueira–Campo de Ourique). Bigger modern trams run on route 15E, connecting Praça da Figueira to Belém; this route is often used by tourists on their way to Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and Torre de Belém.

One thing to note: while the rickety, mustard-yellow trams are full of character, they're more of a travel experience than a practical way to get around in Lisbon. In addition to not being the most comfortable form of public transportation, they don't cover large areas of the city, and they often get stuck behind poorly parked cars during rush hour.

Funiculars and elevators help with the hills

Three funiculars ( ascensores ) and one historic elevator have been helping city-dwellers dodge the uphill climbs in Lisbon since the early 1900s. All four are numbered, but locals refer to them by the names of the streets they ride on. Glória (51E) connects Restauradores to Bairro Alto, Lavra (52E) links Baixa and Jardim do Torel, Bica (53E) connects Cais do Sodré to Bairro Alto, and the Santa Justa elevator (54E) connects Baixa to Largo do Carmo in Chiado.

Tickets bought on board are pricey, costing €3.80 for two rides on the funiculars and €5.30 to go there and back on the elevator. Instead, purchase a Viva Viagem transport card and spend only €1.35 per trip.

Trains are quicker for getting to Belém

Suburban trains on the Cascais Line depart from Cais do Sodré every 20 to 30 minutes; it’s often quicker to hop on one of these trains to get to Belém than it is to catch the tram, a bus or a taxi. The journey takes less than 10 minutes. To reach the eastern side of the city faster than by taking the metro or bus, catch the Azambuja Line train from Santa Apolónia to Oriente Station – a stress-free trip of eight minutes.

Five boat services cross the Tagus

Five boat routes connect the two sides of the Tagus River, and taking a boat is the fastest, cheapest and easiest way to get to the south bank. Boats to Barreiro depart from Terreiro do Paço, and from the Cais do Sodré boat station, you can catch boats to Montijo, Seixal and Cacilhas. From Belém, you can reach Trafaria and Porto Brandão by boat.

Lisbon's taxis are black with a green roof

Grabbing a cab is a good-value option for longer journeys, and for getting to and from the airport. That said, language can sometimes be a barrier, and service standards can be disappointing. Taxis in Lisbon are easy to identify: they're black vehicles with a green roof. They all run on meters, and these are immediately turned on once you get in. Taxi drivers are required to issue a receipt at the end of the ride, whether you ask for one or not. Some taxis take card payments, but not all, so it’s best to carry cash.

Rideshare services are cheaper than regular taxis

Ridesharing apps are used widely in Lisbon; Uber, Bolt and FREE NOW are all popular options. Using these app-based services is cheaper than taking a conventional cab and quicker than getting on a bus to reach the far eastern (Oriente) and western (Belém) sides of the city. However, note that drivers are not always that familiar with the layout of the city. By law, all ride-share vehicles are required to display a sticker on the windshield with the letters TVDE.

Cars are best saved for those with reduced mobility

Only drive in Lisbon if you need to cover a lot of ground in a short time, or if you or those you are traveling with have reduced mobility. As in any densely packed city, there are traffic jams and road works to contend with, but the Portuguese penchant for double parking with blinkers on is even more of a patience test. The shortage of parking is also an issue, particularly on weekdays, when commuters take over every available spot in busy neighborhoods such as Baixa, Chiado and Mouraria.

Accessible transportation in Lisbon

Lisbon is not a very accessible city, and unfortunately, most challenges won’t be easily overcome in the near future. The historic calçada portuguesa sidewalks are uneven and poorly maintained, and trams squeeze their way along narrow streets, further reducing space for the mobility impaired. Travelers with disabilities may find it difficult to ride the narrow and rampless funiculars. Lisbon’s trams are also tricky for people with reduced mobility (tram 15E is the only service with accessible boarding). Most buses aren’t equipped to accommodate wheelchair users, and only some metro stations are equipped with elevators. Find more information in Lonely Planet's free Accessible Travel guide .

This article was first published Oct 13, 2021 and updated Jul 16, 2023.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Apr 4, 2024 • 4 min read

Northern Portuguese classics and food that's hard to find in Lisbon.

Apr 3, 2024 • 15 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 28, 2024 • 9 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 3 min read

Feb 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read