Portugal

Portugal is a European gem that has long been overshadowed by its more popular neighbors. However, those who discover this country often fall in love with it forever. Here, you can experience a rich history, stunning beaches, charming medieval towns, excellent cuisine, and wonderfully hospitable people—all in one place.

Key Highlights

• Best Time to Visit — June and September offer comfortable temperatures of 22-25°C without the summer tourist crowds. It’s best to avoid July and August when prices can soar by 2-3 times and temperatures can reach 35°C.
• Transportation Accessibility — High-speed trains connect Lisbon and Porto in just 2 hours and 49 minutes (tickets from €27-34), and domestic flights start at €30. Pro tip: Fly into one airport and depart from another to save time.
• Cultural Gems — Explore the historic centers of Lisbon and Porto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with the fairy-tale palaces in Sintra, such as Pena Palace (€17) and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira (€10). Don’t miss the medieval town of Óbidos, where you can enjoy ginjinha served in chocolate cups.
• Beach Paradise Algarve — With 150 km of golden beaches, Algarve features Praia da Marinha (ranked among the world’s top 100) and the famous Benagil cave (tours from €25). Water temperatures during summer reach 20-22°C, making it perfect for surfing in Sagres.
• Unique Gastronomy — Savor 365 different recipes for cod bacalhau, taste port wine at tastings starting from €10-15, enjoy pastel de nata from the original Pastéis de Belém bakery (€1.50), indulge in francesinha in Porto, and sip vinho verde on the beach.
• Island Treasures — Discover Madeira, known for its levadas and toboggans, and the Azores, home to the stunning Sete Cidades lakes and whale watching tours (95% success rate, starting from €35). Madeira enjoys a year-round temperature of 18-25°C.

About This Guide

This comprehensive Portugal travel guide offers detailed practical information for planning a trip to one of Europe’s most underrated countries. It covers all aspects of travel, including transportation, accommodation, gastronomy, and hidden gems.

What the guide includes:

• Transportation — Information on flights, trains, and car rentals, complete with prices and pro tips.
• Top Destinations — Highlights of Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, and the Algarve, featuring must-see Portugal attractions.
• Beach Vacation — A guide to the best Algarve beaches, surfing spots, and marine activities.
• Cultural Heritage — Insights into palaces, castles, and historic centers, along with entrance ticket information.
• Gastronomy — An overview of traditional dishes, wine culture, and the best restaurants.
• Islands — Details on Madeira and the Azores, including unique entertainment options.
• Ready Itinerary — A detailed 7-day plan with a budget range of €800-1200.
• Practical Tips — Information on visas, safety, language, currency, and climate.

This guide is based on real experiences and offers proven tips for saving time and money, making Portugal accessible for both budget travelers and those seeking comfort.

When to Visit Portugal

The best time for a vacation in Portugal is during June and September. These months offer comfortable weather (22-25°C) and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season.

Avoid visiting in July and August, as this is when European tourists flock to the country, leading to soaring accommodation prices (up to 2-3 times higher) and long queues at popular attractions.

Spring and autumn (March-May, October-November) are also excellent times for tours to Portugal. While the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the north, you can leisurely explore Portugal’s attractions without the hustle and bustle.

In winter (December-February), expect rainy weather, particularly in central regions, though temperatures rarely drop below 10°C. This season appeals to those seeking a quiet getaway in Portugal, undeterred by the weather’s whims.

How to Get to Portugal and Transportation Within the Country

Main Airports

Lisbon is the country’s main international hub. Porto is convenient for exploring the north, while Faro is ideal for beach holidays in the Algarve.

Pro tip: Fly into one airport and depart from another to maximize your travel experience. For example: Porto → Lisbon → Faro.

Domestic Flights and Trains

High-speed trains connect Lisbon and Porto in just 2 hours and 49 minutes, with tickets priced between €27 and €34. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season, as tickets sell out quickly.

Car Rental

Driving in Portugal can be an adventure of its own. While the freedom to explore is appealing, be aware that local drivers can be reckless, and tolls can add up, costing €15 to €30 per day just for road fees. This flexibility is particularly rewarding in the Algarve region, known for its beautiful resorts.

Important Reminders:

• International driving license required.
• Full insurance is mandatory.
• GPS or downloaded maps are essential since internet access can be unreliable in mountainous areas.

Public Transport in Cities

Both Lisbon and Porto boast excellent metro systems, with a day pass costing approximately €7. The iconic yellow trams are not just a tourist attraction; they also provide a convenient way to navigate the city.

Top Destinations and Cities in Portugal

Lisbon — Capital and Cultural Center

Lisbon leaves a lasting impression with its blend of modern shopping centers and medieval churches, all offering stunning views of the Tagus River from various cafés.

Main Districts:

• Alfama — The oldest district, featuring narrow, winding streets and houses perched on hillsides.
• Baixa — The business hub, showcasing elegant 18th-century architecture.
• Bairro Alto — The nightlife heart of the city, home to hundreds of bars.
• Belém — A district filled with museums and monuments.

Must-See Attractions:

• Tram №28 — A popular tram that takes you past key city sights. A ride costs €3.10, but a day pass is advisable. Start your journey early at the terminus to avoid crowds.
• São Jorge Castle — This 11th-century fortress offers the best panoramic views of the city. Admission is €15, and it is open until 18:00 in winter and 21:00 in summer.
• Belém Tower — A symbol of the Age of Great Discoveries; be sure to climb to the top, but be prepared for a narrow spiral staircase.

Viewpoints (Miradouros):

• Miradouro das Portas do Sol — Offers a classic postcard view.
• Miradouro da Graça — Provides a panoramic view of the entire city.
• Miradouro de Santa Luzia — A scenic spot shaded by trees.

Where to Try Pastéis de Nata

• Pastéis de Belém — The original bakery, established in 1837, prepares these treats using a secret recipe known only to three chefs. Expect long queues, but it’s worth it at €1.50 per piece.
• For a quicker option, visit Nannarella café or Confeitaria Mexicana in the city center.

Fado Bars and Nightlife

Experience authentic fado music in the Alfama district at Café Luso or Sr. Fado, both known for their live performances. Dinner and a show typically cost €30-40 per person.

In Bairro Alto, nightlife is concentrated. Pink Street, while touristy, offers an atmospheric setting with numerous bars.

Porto — Wine Capital

Porto provides a contrast to the bustling energy of Lisbon, offering a more relaxed pace and an abundance of port wine. The historic center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why.

Historic Center and Luís I Bridge

The Ribeira district is the heart of old Porto, where colorful houses cling to the Douro riverbank, seemingly trying to avoid tumbling into the water. The best photographs can be captured from the opposite bank or the bridge.

The Luís I Bridge is a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering. The upper tier accommodates the metro, while the lower tier is shared by pedestrians and vehicles. Climbing the stairs to the upper tier provides a great cardio workout, rewarding you with stunning views.

Wine Cellars and Port Tastings

Vila Nova de Gaia is home to all the major wine houses, including Sandeman, Taylor’s, and Cockburn’s.

Pro tip: Don’t limit yourself to the tourist tastings at the larger houses. Visit the smaller cellar, Real Companhia Velha, for more personal attention and a chance to sample more interesting wines at the same price (around €10-15 for a tasting of 3-4 varieties).

Lello Bookstore

Livraria Lello is considered one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores and inspired J.K. Rowling in the creation of the Hogwarts library. Admission is €10, but this amount is deducted from your purchase if you buy a book.

Important: Arrive at opening time (10:00) to avoid lengthy queues, which can stretch for an hour.

Ribeira District

Walking through Ribeira’s narrow streets feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Every house is an architectural monument, and each turn reveals a new picturesque view.

For the best cafés with river views, try Café au Lait and Mesa do Frio. The average cost for a full lunch is around €15-20.

Sintra — City of Fairy-tale Palaces

Just half an hour from Lisbon lies a real open-air museum. Sintra has been a summer residence for Portuguese kings for centuries, with each ruler leaving behind something unique.

Pena Palace and Its Unique Architecture

Palácio da Pena is a vibrant blend of colors and architectural styles. Its red, yellow, and blue walls are visible from a distance, resembling fairy-tale decorations.

Practical details: Entrance tickets are €15 for park access only or €17 for combined access to the palace and park. Opening hours are 9:30-18:30 in summer and 10:00-18:00 in winter. Take bus №434 from Sintra station (€4.55 round-trip).

Pro tip: Walk up to the palace in the morning through the park for free access and beautiful scenery. Purchase your ticket at the palace entrance.

Quinta da Regaleira and Mysterious Gardens

Quinta da Regaleira is the most mystical place in Portugal. Built by eccentric millionaire and mason António Monteiro in the early 20th

century, it features the Initiation Well, a 27-meter deep spiral staircase. Legend has it that Masonic initiation rituals were held here.

The park is filled with secret tunnels, grottoes, and symbolic sculptures. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring.

Tickets cost €10 for adults and €6 for reduced admission. They can be purchased online to skip the queues.

Moorish Castle

Castelo dos Mouros is an 8th-century fortress perched on a hilltop. It offers the best views of Sintra and its surroundings, especially at sunset when the city is bathed in golden light.

Day Trip Organization Tips

Leave early: the first train from Lisbon departs at 6:30 AM, with a journey time of 40 minutes. Purchase a combo ticket for the train and bus for €16. Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be plenty of walking on hills and stairs. Bring a jacket, as Sintra has a unique microclimate that often makes it foggy and 3-5 degrees cooler than Lisbon.

Algarve — Beach Mecca

Portugal’s southern coast stretches for 150 kilometers, featuring golden beaches, picturesque cliffs, and charming resort towns. The resorts in the Algarve are considered some of the best in Europe.

Best Beaches:

Praia da Marinha — Featured among the world’s top 100 beaches, this area is known for its stunning golden cliffs, fantastic arches, and grottoes. The water here is exceptionally clear, although quite cool even in summer (around 20-22°C).

Benagil Cave — The most photographed grotto in Europe, accessible only by boat or kayak. Tours start at €25, and kayaking options begin at €35.

Praia da Rocha (Portimão) — The most popular resort beach, offering a well-developed infrastructure, including a wide sandy beach and numerous bars and restaurants. However, it can become quite crowded during the summer months.

Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires.

Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation.

During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp.

Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation.

Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.

More Info

Cities:

Lagos — Once the regional capital, Lagos boasts a rich historical heritage. Don’t miss Ponta da Piedade, a cape featuring spectacular rock formations.

Albufeira — The largest resort in the region, Albufeira offers excellent tourist infrastructure but can be extremely crowded in summer.

Tavira — A quieter town in eastern Algarve, where the beaches are more secluded, and the water temperature is typically a degree or two warmer.

Activities:

• Surfing: Best spots are in Sagres and the surrounding area.
• Diving: Explore numerous shipwrecks in the coastal waters.
• Golf: More than 30 world-class courses are available.
• Boat trips: Dolphin sightings are almost guaranteed.

Hidden Gems

Óbidos — A Medieval Town

This small town is entirely encircled by 14th-century fortress walls, allowing you to walk along them and experience the feeling of a medieval guard.

Specialty: Be sure to try the famous ginjinha, a cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups. Tradition dictates that you must eat the cup.

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings, when there are no tour buses.

Nazaré — A Fishing Village with Giant Waves

From November to February, surfers from around the world flock to Nazaré to tackle waves that reach up to 30 meters! During the rest of the year, it’s a tranquil fishing village known for its excellent seafood.

Make sure to ride the funicular to the upper part of town for breathtaking ocean views.

Aveiro — The “Portuguese Venice”

This charming town is crisscrossed by canals where colorful moliceiros boats glide through the water. A boat ride costs between €8-12 and lasts about an hour.

Don’t overlook the local delicacy — ovos moles, sweet egg confections shaped like shells and fish.

Évora and Its Historical Monuments

Located in the Alentejo region, Évora is home to one of Europe’s best-preserved Roman cities. Highlights include Diana’s Roman Temple and the Chapel of Bones, both of which leave a lasting impression.

The Chapel of Bones is an eerie yet fascinating sight, with walls adorned entirely with human bones and skulls. Admission is €3.

Portugal’s Islands

Madeira — The “Island of Eternal Spring”

Madeira is a subtropical paradise in the Atlantic Ocean, where temperatures range from 18-25°C year-round.

Funchal and Its Attractions

The island’s capital, Funchal, is built amphitheater-style on the slopes of the mountains. Key attractions include the tropical garden and the Mercado dos Lavradores market.

Experience the famous toboggans,

where you can ride down wicker sleds on pavement at speeds of up to 50 km/h. This thrilling ride is not for the faint-hearted but guarantees an adrenaline rush!

Levadas — Unique Walking Routes

Levadas are ancient irrigation channels with accompanying walking paths. The most popular routes include:

• 25 Fountains: 3-4 hours, medium difficulty.
• Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A trek to an emerald lake, lasting 4-5 hours.
• Pico Ruivo: The island’s highest point, suited for experienced hikers.

Famous Madeira Wine

Madeira wine is unique in that it is specially heated to enhance its flavor. Tastings are available at all major wineries, typically costing between €15-20.

Azores Islands

The Azores is a group of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic, offering a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

São Miguel and Sete Cidades Lakes

The Sete Cidades lakes are one of the Azores’ most famous attractions. Two lakes, one green and one blue, located in a dormant volcano crater, create an incredible landscape.

Natural Hot Springs

In Furnas, hot springs emerge from underground, where locals cook a traditional dish called cozido in natural “ovens” — volcanic steam pits.

Whale Safari

From April to October, over 20 species of whales and dolphins can be spotted in the waters of the archipelago. Tours start at €35, with an observation success rate of about 95%.

Portuguese Cuisine and Drinks

Traditional Dishes

Bacalhau — The king of Portuguese cuisine. It is said that there are 365 recipes for cod, one for each day of the year. Be sure to try bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes and egg).

Francesinha — Porto’s signature dish. This sandwich contains various types of meat, all covered in melted cheese and beer sauce. It’s hearty and delicious!

Cataplana — A seafood stew prepared in special copper cookware. This dish originates from the Algarve and is best enjoyed at coastal restaurants.

Pastéis de Nata and Other Desserts

Pastéis de nata — A point of national pride for Portugal, these delicate custard pastries come in a crispy dough, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.

Ovos moles from Aveiro — Sweets shaped like sea creatures, made from egg yolks and sugar.

Wine Culture

Port wine — A sweet fortified wine enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif. The main types are Ruby (young and fruity) and Tawny (aged with nutty notes).

Vinho verde — A light sparkling wine with a low alcohol content (8-11%), perfect for hot beach days.

Be sure to try regional wines, especially the red wines from the Douro Valley and the whites from the Alentejo region.

Best Restaurants and Local Establishments

In Lisbon:

• Ramiro — Renowned for the best seafood in the city, but be prepared for queues.
• Taberna do Real Fado — Enjoy dinner with live fado music in Alfama.
• Time Out Market — A food court featuring some of the city’s best chefs.

In Porto:

• Café Santiago — The birthplace of the francesinha.
• The Yeatman — A Michelin-star restaurant offering stunning city views.
• Chez Lapin — A cozy tavern situated in Ribeira.

In Algarve:

• Fortaleza do Guincho — An exquisite dining experience by the ocean.
• Restaurante Vila Joya — A two-Michelin-star establishment located in Albufeira.

Portuguese Coffee Culture

In Portugal, coffee is a constant companion, enjoyed everywhere. The main types include:

• Café (espresso) — The standard serving.
• Galão — Coffee with milk served in a tall glass.
• Café com leite — Coffee with milk served in a cup.
• Bica — A double espresso.

Coffee is typically served with a small cookie or candy. On average, a cup costs between €0.70 and €1.20.

Classic 7-Day Portugal Itinerary

Days 1-2: Lisbon 

Start your trip with an arrival and accommodation in the city center (Baixa or Chiado districts). On your first day, take an overview walk through the historic center, ride tram №28, and visit São Jorge Castle. The second day is for exploring Belém, tasting pastéis de nata, and enjoying an evening of fado.

Day 3: Sintra 

Take a day trip to visit Pena Palace in the morning and Quinta da Regaleira after lunch. Return to Lisbon in the evening.

Days 4-5: Porto 

Transfer by train in the morning (2.5 hours). On the first day, explore the historic center and enjoy a port tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia. Spend the second day either taking an excursion to the Douro Valley or exploring the nearby towns of Aveiro and Guimarães.

Day 6-7: Algarve

Fly from Porto to Faro (1 hour, from €30) or arrange a car transfer. Enjoy two days of beach vacation in Portugal, featuring beaches, boat trips, and a visit to the Benagil cave. Choose Lagos or Portimão as your base.

Budget for 7 Days: €800-1200 per person (including flight, accommodation, meals, and transport).

Expert Review of Travel to Portugal

Portugal captivates you from the moment you arrive and keeps you engaged. With each return visit, I discover something new. Lisbon is a city of contrasts; you can start your day with breakfast in a trendy Chiado café and, just an hour later, find yourself in a quaint Alfama tavern where an 80-year-old grandmother serves the best cod in the city. While tram №28 is a well-known attraction, riding it at 7 AM alongside locals heading to work offers a completely different experience.

Sintra never ceases to amaze. Pena Palace resembles something out of a Disney fairy tale, while Quinta da Regaleira tells a mystical story. As you descend the spiral Initiation Well, you feel like a character from the “Da Vinci Code.”

In Porto, don’t just visit the well-known wineries; explore small family cellars where you’ll be treated to 40-year-old tawny as if you were an old friend.

Algarve is more than just beaches. While the Benagil cave is Instagram-famous, seek out a small cove near Carvoeiro at sunset, and you’ll understand why the Portuguese refer to their country as “Europe’s garden by the sea.”

The people you meet here are special—never in a rush, they always take time to chat and genuinely appreciate when you make an effort to speak a few words in Portuguese.

Expert Answers to Popular Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
Citizens of non-EU countries require a Schengen visa. The Portuguese consulate typically issues multiple-entry visas for the insurance period, with an average processing time of 15-30 working days.

What budget should I plan for the trip?

• Economy option: €40-60 per day (hostels, public transport, café snacks).
• Comfort: €80-120 per day (3-4 star hotels, restaurants, museums, tours).
• Luxury: €150+ per day (5-star hotels, Michelin restaurants, personalized tours).

Is it safe to travel around Portugal?
Portugal is one of Europe’s safest countries, with an extremely low crime rate. The main risk is petty theft in tourist areas of Lisbon, so be cautious on trams and in Rossio Square.

What language is used in tourist areas?
Portuguese is the official language. Hotels and tourist centers generally speak English. While Spanish may be understood, it’s best to avoid relying on it, as the Portuguese appreciate tourists making an effort to speak their language.

Should I rent a car?
In cities, no—public transport is well developed. However, in the Algarve and northern regions, a car is highly recommended to access many picturesque beaches and villages.

What currency should I bring?
The Euro. Cards are widely accepted, but it’s useful to have cash for tips, parking, and small purchases. ATMs are readily available, with a typical commission of €2-3 per transaction.

Can you swim in the ocean year-round? The water temperature ranges from 20-22°C in summer to 15-17°C in winter. For comfortable swimming, it’s best to visit between June and September. Surfers, however, enjoy the ocean year-round while wearing wetsuits.

What we propose

Emma Heidi

Customer Experience Manager

Take all the stress out of planning your trip!

With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs.

We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey.

We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients.

Discover our clients’ experiences here

 Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary.

 A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide.

 Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars.

 We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time.

 Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go.

Service cost: from only $420. (Special price for short itineraries up to 5 days). Clients tell us the itinerary saves them costly mistakes, fines, wrong choices – plus exclusive discounts on car rentals, better-priced accommodations, and money-saving local tips.

Want to know if it’s really worth it?

Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us.

Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection.

Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever.

Contact us via email

Chat with us on WhatsApp
Callback from the expert

How it works

• You are welcome
to contact us
• We discuss
your trip
• You fill out a special form
• We create
your itinerary
• You get it with all useful tips
• We are in touch with
you all the time