the culture trip portugal

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Local Insider - Culture Trip's Complete Portugal Highlights

Editorial Manager

When joining a trip you’ll often get a chance to see some of the best bits from a specific region. These itineraries are a great way to get a taste of a country, but Adam from Culture Trip has put together a fantastic 10-day adventure from Porto to Lisbon to give you a complete Portuguese experience.

Having planned our Complete Portugal trip, Adam was eager to speak to Local Insider Ana about some of the highlights you can enjoy when you visit the country. The trip takes you from the bustling streets of Porto to the impressive hills of Lisbon and passes through the spectacular coastal town of Ericeira.

“We are a country with more than 900 years of history. We have some of the best food and drink in the world, and the people are some of the most gentle and kind you can find.” Ana explains when telling us about why you should visit Portugal.

Portugal remains one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and you might have considered the country ‘done’ if you have spent a weekend in either Porto or Lisbon, but Ana tells us that both cities have very different identities.

Food plays a big part in our trip, and Ana has curated an incredible selection from every part of the country. Other highlights from Complete Portugal include:

Wine tasting in the Douro Valley Seafood cuisine fresh from the ocean A hilltop picnic with a view of Lisbon The perfect beach retreat on the Atlantic coast Tour of Sintra and the colourful Pena Palace

We know Adam can’t wait to go on a trip to Portugal, and you can join him too!

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

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The Most Beautiful Wine Regions You Can Visit With Culture Trip

Beyond the Douro: An Alternative North Portugal Wine Tour

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

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

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The 11 best places to visit in Portugal

Nov 17, 2023 • 7 min read

From the viewpoints of Lisbon to the beaches of the Algarve, here are the best places to go in Portugal © Gabriel Mello / Getty Images

Lisbon and Porto may get a lot of love, but there's so much more to Portugal than its captivating historic cities.

From  golden beaches  and mountainous peaks to lush river valleys, every region has its own diverse highlights across this small Iberian nation.

Finding the best places to go here depends largely on your own interests. If you’re after sun-kissed beaches and aquatic adventures, head to the Algarve ; for historic architecture-filled towns with a rich, traditional dining scene , aim for Évora. Start planning your itinerary now with our 11 favorite places to visit in Portugal.

Best for nightlife

Seven iconic hills overlook  Lisbon 's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, white-domed cathedrals and grand civic squares – a captivating scene crafted over centuries.

The Portuguese capital is packed with things to do , from browsing galleries (including the Museu Nacional do Azulejo with its trove of ceramic tiles) and exploring castles (such as the hilltop  Castelo de São Jorge ) to satisfying your sweet tooth with the city's incredible  pastéis de nata  (custard tarts).

By night, Lisbon’s party people take over, filling old-school drinking dens, brassy jazz clubs and open-all-night clubs that burst into life once the sun goes down.

Planning tip: Lisbon has an emerging craft beer scene that you can experience at the city's breweries and bars .

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in Portugal

2. douro valley .

Best place to drink wine 

One of Portugal’s most beautiful areas lies just east of Porto. Here, the meandering Rio Douro flows past towering hillsides covered by the steeply terraced vineyards that make up Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. Whether you come by boat, train or car to the Douro Valley , you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views at every turn, especially as you near the lovely village of Pinhão in the heart of the region. 

Planning tip:  Many travelers dash in on a quick day trip, but to make the most of the region, spend the night at one of the vineyard-surrounded guesthouses in the area, such as Quinta Nova or the Casa Cimeira .

Best hilltop village

Wandering the tangle of ancient streets in the historic town of  Óbidos is enchanting at any time of year, but come during one of its festivals and you're in for a special treat. Whether you fancy the idea of a mock-up jousting match at a medieval fair or delving into the written word at Folio – Portugal's biggest international literature festival – you couldn’t ask for a better backdrop.

Best for a fantastical escape

Less than an hour by train from the capital Lisbon,  Sintra feels like another world. It's a great day trip away from the city hubbub. Like a setting from a fairy tale, this historic hillside township is sprinkled with stone-walled taverns and lorded over by a  multicolored palace .

Forested hillsides form the backdrop to this storybook setting, with imposing castles, mystical gardens, strange mansions and centuries-old monasteries hidden among the trees. The fog that sweeps in by night adds another layer of mystery.

Planning tip:  Chilly evenings are best spent by the fire in one of Sintra’s many charming B&Bs.

5. Setúbal Peninsula 

Best for wild, cliff-backed beaches

South of Lisbon, the Setúbal Peninsula has long been the weekend playground of Lisboetas (Lisbon residents). A ferry ride, followed by a short bus or bicycle ride, takes you to the Costa da Caparica, a seemingly endless beachfront that gets wilder and less crowded the further south you go. If you want a surf lesson, some downtime on the sands, or a meal overlooking the lapping waves, this is the place to come. 

If you’re seeking a bit more solitude, head down to the Parque Natural da Arrábida at the southern end of the peninsula. Here, you'll find cliffs covered with thick vegetation, picturesque coves and beaches such as Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, with fine sand, azure waters, and the ruins of an ancient site that dates back to Roman times. 

Best for historical architecture 

The heart of the Alentejo region, Évora is one of Portugal’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns, and it's an enchanting place to spend a couple of days. Inside the 14th-century walls, narrow, winding lanes lead to striking monuments, including an elaborate medieval cathedral, Roman ruins and a picturesque town square.

But this isn't a musty museum piece – Évora is also a lively university town, and its many restaurants serve up some excellent, hearty Alentejan cuisine.

Best for urban exploring 

It would be hard to dream up a more romantic city than  Porto . Portugal’s second-largest urban center is laced with narrow pedestrian lanes, baroque churches and cafe-dotted plazas, leading the eye down to the Douro River and its landmark bridges. Needless to say, there's no shortage of  great experiences here . Start in the  Ribeira district – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – then cross the bridge to explore centuries-old port wineries in  Vila Nova de Gaia , where you can sip the world’s best port. 

You can also learn about Porto’s history (both the drink and the city) and other facets of Portuguese identity at the World of Wine , a sprawling complex of museums, restaurants and bars overlooking the city. Though Porto is defined by its air of dignified history, modern architecture, cosmopolitan dining, vibrant nightlife and artistic activity are injecting new life into the city.

8. The Minho 

Best for traditional villages and wilderness trails 

The Portuguese have a special fondness for the Minho , a verdant region of vineyard-covered valleys, mountainous wilds, isolated beaches and picturesque river towns that seem little changed by time. The gateway to the region is Braga , a city with Roman ruins, a fabled medieval cathedral , and tranquil flower-trimmed plazas sprinkled with outdoor cafes and restaurants. 

Further north, you’ll find Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês , a vast, rugged wilderness of dramatic peaks, meandering streams and frozen-in-time stone villages. Dozens of hiking trails crisscross the reserve, taking walkers past old Roman roads, castle ruins or sparkling waterfalls.

Planning tip:  If you're here in summer, cool down in the idyllic swimming holes – these are among the best places to be in Portugal during the hot weather.

Best for a student vibe

Portugal’s most atmospheric college town,  Coimbra , rises steeply from the Rio Mondego, and its handsome medieval quarter houses one of Europe’s oldest universities. Students roam the narrow streets clad in black capes, while the sound of fado (Portugal’s soulful traditional style of music) drifts through the Moorish town gates towards the stained-glass windows of the historic  Café Santa Cruz .

Planning tip:  Grown-ups may well appreciate the town’s student-driven nightlife and the medieval lanes of the steeply stacked historic center. Visitors with younger kids can keep busy at Portugal dos Pequenitos , a theme park with miniature versions of Portuguese monuments.

10. Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela 

Best for hiking and alpine activities in winter

The Serra da Estrela – Portugal’s  highest mountain range – is the place to come for rugged scenery, outdoor adventures, and glimpses of a vanishing traditional way of life. Hikers can choose from an expansive network of high-country trails with stupendous vistas, and the region's fascinating mountain villages make perfect bases for outdoor adventures.

At the country’s highest point – the summit of Torre, artificially pushed to 2000m (6561ft) by the addition of a not-so-subtle stone monument – you can slalom down Portugal’s only ski slope. Oh, and did we mention the furry sheepdog puppies that frolic by the roadside? You’ll long to take one home.

11. The Algarve

Best for a relaxing family holiday

Sunseekers have much to celebrate in Portugal. Along the south coast, the Algarve is famed for its gorgeous and varied coastline – you can either join the crowds on the people-packed sands at major resorts or find seaside peace on dramatic wild beaches backed by wind-carved cliffs. Days are spent playing in the waves, taking long oceanfront strolls, or surfing some of Europe's most memorable breaks. 

The Algarve is also one of the best places in Portugal for kids . You’ll find family-friendly beaches, water parks and plenty of outdoor adventures (from boating to hidden sea caves to exploring undeveloped islands).

Planning tip:  There’s never a bad time to visit this region, with its 300 days of sunshine each year, though you’ll find the best prices and thinnest crowds in winter. 

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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Portugal Travel Guide Part 4: Cultural Immersion and Local Festivals

by Tee McNeill | Feb, Fri, 2023 | Portugal , Travel

Portugal’s culture is a rich and diverse blend of influences from history, geography, and people that is constantly evolving and adapting to modern times while still honoring its traditions and heritage.

In fact, many of Portugal’s festivals and traditions are unique to the country, and many of them are celebrated only in certain regions. This promises a unique and unforgettable travel experience when you witness or even participate in these events.  I’ll share the eight cultural experiences and local festivals that you should definitely consider on your next trip.

This is the final post of a 4-part series of our Portugal travel guide. 

• Part One: Most Popular Travel Destinations in Portugal
• Part Two: Portugal’s Burgeoning Culinary Scene
• Part Three: Celebrating Portugal’s Wonderful Art and Architecture 
• Part Four: (this blog)

1. Fado Performances

Fado is a beloved Portuguese tradition that incorporates music, lyrics, and movement. This form of music often reflects the struggles and joys of everyday life and has become a cherished tradition in Portugal.

Fado songs are usually performed by a solo singer (male or female) and traditionally accompanied by the Portuguese guitar – a pear-shaped cittern with twelve wire strings that exist only in Portugal. The Portuguese guitar, with its unique sound and style, is an integral part of the Fado performance and contributes to the emotional depth of the music.

The main themes of passion, fate, and regret in Fado music have their roots in the ancient songs of African slavery and Portuguese sailors of the 14th and 15th centuries. Fado is performed almost every evening in the Lisbon neighborhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, and Bairro Alto.

It also exists in other cities and regions of Portugal, such as Coimbra, Porto, and Madeira. These performances often take place in small, intimate venues, which adds to the authenticity and emotional impact of the music.

The Fado Museum in Lisbon is a great place to learn more about the history and evolution of this important cultural tradition. The museum offers a range of exhibits, from historical artifacts and photographs to audio and video recordings of Fado performances. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

2. Christmas Markets

Portugal may not have as many Christmas markets as other European countries, but the ones that do exist are charming and full of festive spirit. In addition to the Campo Pequeno Christmas Market in Lisbon, there are other popular markets throughout the country.

One of the most famous is the Christmas market in Vila do Conde, located in the north of Portugal. This market is known for its beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and traditional Portuguese ornaments.

In Porto, the largest city in the north, the Christmas market is held in the historic center, where visitors can find local delicacies such as pastel de nata (custard tarts), roasted chestnuts, and warm port wine.

Related: Top Portuguese Culinary Delicacies

Another popular Christmas market is the Mercado de Natal de Cascais, held in the coastal town of Cascais, just outside Lisbon. This market features traditional Portuguese crafts as well as live music and entertainment.

Overall, Christmas markets in Portugal may be smaller in scale than those in other European countries, but they offer visitors a unique and authentic experience that focuses on local traditions and crafts.

Related : Top 5 Christmas River Cruise Experiences 

3. The Festival of Our Lady of Fat ima

The Festival of Our Lady of Fatima is one of the most famous religious festivals in Portugal and attracts thousands of visitors each year. It is celebrated on the 13th of May in the town of Fatima, located in central Portugal.

The festival is famous because it commemorates a series of apparitions of the Virgin Mary that occurred in 1917 to three young shepherds in the town of Fatima. The story goes that the Virgin Mary appeared to the children several times, giving them messages of peace, repentance, and prayer. The events at Fatima are considered one of the most important Marian apparitions in the Catholic faith.

During the festival, visitors can expect to see a variety of religious ceremonies, processions, and events. The highlight of the festival is the candlelight procession, where pilgrims carry candles and walk from the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima to the Chapel of the Apparitions. This procession is a powerful and moving experience, with thousands of people walking in silence, praying and singing hymns.

There are also Masses, confessionals, and other religious services taking place throughout the day. Visitors can expect a lively and festive atmosphere, with food and souvenir stalls set up throughout the town.

Overall, the Festival of Our Lady of Fatima is a unique and meaningful experience for visitors interested in the religious and cultural traditions of Portugal.

4. Carnaval

Carnaval (carnival) in Portugal has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally, it was a pagan festival that marked the beginning of spring and was celebrated with dancing, music, and feasting. However, when Christianity became the predominant religion in Portugal, the festival was adapted to coincide with Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and reflection before Easter.

Carnaval in Portugal is a time of celebration when people let loose and have fun before the solemnity of Lent. It’s characterized by elaborate parades with colorful floats, costumes, and music. The parades usually have satirical themes, with floats poking fun at politicians, celebrities, and current events. In addition to the parades, there are street festivals, concerts, and other festivities throughout the country.

One of the most popular Carnival celebrations in Portugal takes place in Loulé, a town in the Algarve region. The city’s carnival parade is known for its elaborate floats and costumes, which are designed and built by residents. Each float has a topical theme, and the satirical commentary is often biting and humorous.

Related: Why The Algarve Region Is Worth a Visit

The popularity of Carnaval in Portugal is due to its unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Visitors can experience the country’s rich traditions and folklore firsthand while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the parades and parties. The festival also offers the opportunity to immerse in Portuguese culture and interact with locals.

5. The Sintra Festival

The Sintra Festival has been held annually since 1958 and has become one of the most popular cultural events in Portugal. Originally intended to promote classical music and culture in the region, the festival has since become a major international event attracting visitors from all over the world.

One of the highlights of the Sintra Festival is its stunning location. Performances take place in some of Portugal’s most beautiful and historic buildings, including the National Palace of Queluz, the Pena Palace and the Monserrate Palace. These buildings provide a stunning backdrop for the performances, and visitors can look forward to being transported into a magical world of music, art and history.

Related: Inside Scoop on Portugal’s Top Architectural and Historical Sites

The festival’s program is diverse and offers performances for every taste and interest. The festival includes not only classical music but also world music, jazz, and contemporary music. In addition, there are performances aimed specifically at multigenerational families looking for an epic cultural experience.

The Sintra Festival is a unique and unforgettable cultural experience that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. The breathtaking venues alone are reason enough to attend.

6. The International Sand Sculpture Festival 

The International Sand Sculpture Festival, also known as Sand City, is home to the largest sand sculpture site in the world. The festival takes place in a beautiful outdoor area between Porches and Lagoa in the Algarve region of Portugal. Here you can admire the intricacy and detail of the incredible works of art created entirely out of sand by skilled artists from around the world.

There are around 60 sculptures on display at the festival, some of which can be more than 10 meters high- so there’s plenty to discover and admire. Each year the festival has a different theme.

You can expect unique and creative interpretations of the chosen theme. Some of the past themes have been Music Idols, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Stars, Wonders of the World, Mythology and Lost Worlds.

In addition to the sculptures themselves, the festival also features various events such as musical performances and workshops.  Overall, the International Sand Sculpture Festival is a unique and impressive experience that is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

7. The Iberian Mask Festival

The Iberian Mask Festival, also known as Festival da Máscara Ibérica, is a lively celebration of the cultural and ethnic ties between the Spanish and Portuguese regions. During the first week of May, people from both countries parade through the streets of Lisbon in funky costumes and masks.

The festival is a unique opportunity to learn about the rich and diverse cultures of the Iberian Peninsula. The masks worn by festival-goers are a key element of the festival. Each represents a different cultural or historical figure or event.

During the four-day festival, visitors get to experience the unique blend of Spanish and Portuguese culture and see the creativity and artistry of the costumes and masks worn by festivalgoers. The festival also offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions and history of the region.

You’ll also get to enjoy a range of activities, including dance performances, music concerts, street theater, and food and beverage stands. This is a lively and colorful affair with a carnival-like atmosphere that is infectious and fun for all ages.

8. The Lisboa Dance Festival

The Lisboa Dance Festival is a relatively new but highly popular festival in Lisbon, Portugal, that celebrates the country’s culture through electronic music. Launched in 2016, the festival has quickly become one of the most exciting events for a diverse crowd, from electronic music fans to culture lovers.  

One of the main reasons to attend the Lisboa Dance Festival is its eclectic lineup. The festival showcases a wide range of electronic music genres, including techno, house, disco, and more. The program includes both local and international artists providing a unique opportunity to experience the current electronic music scene from Portugal and around the world.

In addition to music, the festival offers a wide range of activities such as workshops, lectures, and art installations that make it a cultural event that goes beyond music. The festival takes place in a beautiful and historic location that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The festival has a friendly and inclusive atmosphere that makes it a welcoming event for all. If you want to meet new people and experience a different side of Lisbon, this is the place to be.

Immerse Yourself in The Rich & Vibrant Culture of Portugal

One of the main reasons to travel is to experience different cultures. By participating in local festivals and traditions in Portugal, you gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and its people.

This is because most festivals and traditions are often community-driven events where locals come together to celebrate and honor their cultural heritage. However, for all its benefits, experiencing the rich Portuguese culture isn’t without its challenges.

Popular cultural festivals in Portugal can draw large crowds, which can lead to long lines, difficulty finding parking, and congestion on public transportation. During peak festival times, accommodations in the area may be limited.

Therefore, it’s always important to research the festival you plan to attend and plan ahead to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. However, planning a great trip is a whole other conundrum. For one, information about some festivals isn’t readily available in English or other languages, making it difficult for visitors to plan their visit. Even if you have the information, it’s still a shot in the dark. That’s why working with an experienced personal travel advisor has been a game-changer for many travelers. 

I take care of all the planning and logistics so you can enjoy a trip to Portugal that is 100% tailored to your interests. All you have to do is put on that sunscreen and embark on an unforgettable experience in the streets of Lisbon or any other Portuguese city where your love of culture takes you.

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Top 20 Portugal Travel Tips Every Visitor Should Know

Travelling to Portugal is exciting and intriguing because the culture and the language might not be what you are used to.

Here you will find the 20 most useful tips for planning your trip to Portugal.

I’ll give you tips on moving around the country or the city, what to do and what to eat, staying safe and what to do when you have to sadly leave the country.

Top 20 Portugal travel tips

When and where to go

1. avoid july and august.

Due to Portugal’s mild climate and proximity to the ocean, the summer vacation season is by far the most popular among travellers. You can clearly witness this in July and August, especially in Lisbon and in the Algarve, as the city centres get packed to the point that it is almost impossible to pass through the narrow Portuguese sidewalks (“calçadas”).

A good time to travel to Portugal is around May, June, September and October, when the sun is not excessively hot, but the weather is warm enough to go to the beach or simply visit the historical sites without overheating.

Moreover, the amount of tourists will be significantly lower and you will be able to enjoy the sights without having to queue up for ages.

2. Book accommodation and flights in advance

Partially due to the previously discussed reasons, but also due to the size of the main attraction points, such as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, the number of accommodation options is rather limited compared to the amount of visitors, especially during the peak season.

Therefore, we highly recommend you to arrange a place as much in advance as possible. You will also save money by booking a rare and affordable find which is usually occupied throughout the year.

The same go for long-distance transport and international flights to Portugal .

Momondo , the travel comparison website, offers an insight tool that indicates the cheapest periods to travel to Lisbon (or any other worldwide destination), how many days in advance you should book and what’s the best day of the week to travel.

The website is available in several languages and from different destinations by changing the settings on the bottom right corner of the page.

3. Ask for a ventilator (fan) in the summer and a heater in the winter

While this might seem like an obvious add-on for any tourist accommodation, don’t take this for granted when visiting Portugal! Most of the houses were built to stay cool in the summer and keep the heat in the winter, therefore it’s not customary to have central heating or air-conditioning installed in most buildings.

Usually modern hotels will include this service, though if you’re staying in a rented apartment it is best to double-check with the landlords if air-conditioning or a ventilator are provided during the hot months and a heater is available during the winter months. This way you will avoid unpleasant stays in overly hot or cold apartments!

4. There is more to Portugal than Lisbon

We know, we know… Lisbon is highly spoken of on many media channels and strongly recommended by almost anyone who visits it. However, it is not the only great place that Portugal has to offer.

Other very worthwhile destinations in the north of Portugal are:

• Guimarães ;
• Vila Real ;
• Bragança ; and

For the south, you should try:

• Costa Vicentina; and

And of course not forgetting the stunning archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean.

Since these alternatives are usually smaller cities compared to Lisbon, you could opt for organising a multi-city trip with one day stays, rather than spending an entire week in the same place.

Continental Portugal is well-connected with smooth highways as well as long-distance train and bus routes.

However, there are some hard to reach places such as Gerês and Costa Vicentina, for which we suggest renting a car or a van .

The same goes for the archipelagos, which do not have a well developed public transport system, though would require at least three days for visiting.

5. If you still decide to go to Lisbon…

…then be prepared for massive amounts of people in the city centre and the tourist attractions especially in the warmer months and peak season. Lisbon is definitely a must-visit place in Portugal and in recent years it has gone through a lot of changes due to increased tourism, which has also contributed greatly to the local economy.

However, the streets and houses weren’t built to host such large crowds, so you will very likely find yourself queuing just to cross the street.

How do you escape the tourist crowds?

Here are some not so well-known areas where you can enjoy the same cultural spirit of Lisbon.

Start from the area called Avenidas Novas with its wide avenues and neoclassical architecture style until you reach Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian , where you can enjoy a beautiful garden and fascinating art galleries; continue walking westbound until you reach the top of the vast Parque Eduardo VII, from where you can admire an endless viewpoint across the city, the river and Almada .

Then take the yellow (“amarela”) Metro line from Marquês de Pombal to Rato and walk up to Jardim da Estrela, a lovely oasis in the middle of old Lisbon, and then go to the nearby Basílica da Estrela, one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon.

The next stop is the lookout (“miradouro”) at Panorâmico de Monsanto, a restaurant built in the 1960s on top of a large green hill, then abandoned due to bankruptcy and recently reopened to the public. We recommend taking a taxi up there, the view is really worth it.

When you head back down, finish off the day by visiting the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda , which stands at the foot of the hill and is the former residence of the Portuguese royal family.

Bonus tip for the tireless ones is the Museu Nacional do Azulejo , also known as the National Tile Museum. It is surprisingly one of the most interesting and beautiful museums in Lisbon, which tells the story of the traditional Portuguese tiles, their production and style over the centuries.

Getting around the country or the cities

6. rent a car if you’re planning a multi-city trip.

This tip is partially related to visiting more than just Lisbon, but it’s also valid if you want to want to organise a road trip across continental Portugal.

Those who live here will know that having a car can unlock many hidden gems that would otherwise be hard to reach with public transport.

Some of the suggested routes are:

A southbound journey along the coast from Lisbon all the way until the Algarve .

A city-hopping trip among the northern Portugal cities like the ones mentioned in tip number four.

A tour through one of the several natural parks, such as:

• Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês ;
• Parque Natural do Douro Internacional;
• Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela ;
• Parque Natural da Serra de S. Mamede; and
• Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana.

Visiting a vineyard for a day in the Setúbal, Alentejo or Douro region. You may need to find a designated driver for this trip if you plan to taste some of the sumptuous Portuguese wines .

You can easily rent a car directly from any Portuguese airport, however there are some restrictions which you can check in our article:  Car Rentals in Portugal: Expert Advice to Save You Time and Money

7. Get a rechargeable Metro card if in Lisbon or Porto

If you’re visiting Lisbon or Porto, which happen to be the only two cities in Portugal with a Metro system, we highly advise that you to use local public transport to move around the city rather than driving a car, as traffic can get pretty intense and finding parking may turn into an Odyssey.

The main advantage of the rechargeable Metro card is that you can use the same one on the Metro, local trains, buses, trams and even the ferry in Lisbon.

The disadvantage is that you can only charge it in specific authorised points, such as newspaper kiosks and Metro stations.

However, if you know someone in Portugal, they can charge your card at a Multibanco machine or for Lisbon’s Viva cards, they can charge it at home via the  Viva website.

So make sure to top it up with some extra cash or simply pick the daily pass. Just keep in mind that you can use only one card per person and ticket controls are rather frequent.

In Lisbon, it is worth buying a  7 Colinas or a Viva Viagem  card, which can be bought in any Metro station. The reusable 7 Colinas card can be purchased for one or five days. Both of these cards are valid for a whole year so hang on to it if you are planning on coming back to Lisbon. Each trip is about Є1.45 by using these cards and an average price per day would be about Є3.15.

8. Relax and learn how to be patient

This might sounds strange to some of you, but it actually is a very important tip: be patient and do not put other people in a rush. Portuguese people like to take things easy (especially in the countryside) and do not have an elaborate concept of doing things in a fast manner, which might be irritating for some people at first.

Instead try to embrace the slow pace of the Portuguese culture and use it as an excuse to unwind from the fast city life rhythm.

You’ll find yourself slowly strolling through the streets while embracing the magical light of Portugal, spending three hours at the restaurant finishing off a delicious meal with a glass of Port wine or a brandy (“aguardente”), or simply enjoying an espresso at a viewpoint while gazing into the horizon.

One thing is guaranteed: going back to work will be very, very hard upon your return.

9. Pack comfortable shoes

We previously mentioned the sidewalks in Portugal (“calçada portuguêsa”), so here’s a little tip related to it: it’s not the most friendly type of pavement, so pack your sneakers and leave your high heels at home.

Pavements in Portugal are usually made of small square cobblestones. The streets are covered in beautiful mosaic patterns symbolising the elements of nature and history of the country.

This type of construction has the purpose of being highly resistant to direct sunlight and heat, however, they get extremely slippery when wet or just on a steep hill.

We recommend you watch your step and wear your most comfortable pair of shoes while in Portugal.

10. Be careful of the strong sun

This tip is especially directed to the fair skinned traveller, like myself, who easily burn in the sun. Be prepared: the Portuguese sun can be very strong even in the winter!

So if you’re one of those who become red as lobsters after five minutes in direct sunlight, we suggest to stay in the shadows, use sunscreen with protection 50+ in the summer, and wear a hat and sunglasses especially if you’re spending the entire day out.

You can usually buy sunscreen at any pharmacy, supermarket or night shop, however a flask of 200 ml can cost more than €10, so it might be better to bring some from home in your checked in luggage.

What to do and what to eat

11. museums are free on the first sunday of the month.

Many Portuguese cities have great museums with unique collections of art from ancient history to modern art. We recommend you to check their schedules beforehand as they’re often closed on Mondays and stop admitting visitors between 5 and 7pm.

What’s good to know is that many of them are free on the first Sunday of the month, though you should still check this information per museum as they do have exceptions.

For visitors to Lisbon, you might like:  Top 15 Museums in Lisbon: For Lovers of History and Art

12. Avoid the tourist trap restaurants

This is particularly true for bigger tourist destinations, such as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, however with the increasing amount of visitors, you can notice the prices rising in many parts of Portugal.

How do you recognise a tourist trap restaurant?

They will usually have a very insistent host who will chase you down the street just to get you to eat at their restaurant, they will have a poorly translated menu with pictures of the food hanging at the door and completely inflated prices for drinks and side dishes or no prices displayed at all.

If you’re not sure whether the restaurant that you want to go is a tourist trap or not, always ask the price of anything that you order or is brought to your table and thoroughly check the bill at the end of the meal.

Tourists traps are easily spotted in the city centres and crowded streets and squares.

13. Couverts are not for free

As a continuation to the previous tip, you should know that the bread, cheese and olives waiting for you at the table at not for free. Ever!

If you decide to touch any of it, it counts as a consumption, so if you don’t want to pay for them, kindly ask the waiter to take them back. Some restaurants will count the couvert per person, so make sure to check the prices on the menu in case you can’t keep your hands away from these tasty little appetisers.

14. Tascas are a lifestyle

Tasca is a Portuguese word for “tavern” or “bar” which is very specific to our country due its distinguishing traits. For example, a Tasca is usually a small family run business with a grumpy, yet charming older lady as the cook and a seemingly rude but caring husband running the front bar.

The type of food you can expect is what a Portuguese person eats at their grandmother’s house in a small setting that resembles a living room.

Another recognisable element of a Tasca are the incredibly cheap prices. In Lisbon you can easily find a Tasca with a lunch menu for €7 including a main dish, a drink and a coffee!

While in Porto and other cities, the price can get as low as €5.

Disclaimer: if you’re not a meat or fish lover, then you’re probably going to have to settle with an omelette or a salad!

15. Vegetarians be careful!

As mentioned in the last point, unfortunately there aren’t that many options when it comes to vegetarian (not to mention vegan) food. While this type of cuisine is gradually evolving more and more in the bigger cities, don’t expect to find any vegetarian options in the countryside or small towns.

Moreover, be sure to ask for the ingredients of any dish that you order, because even vegetable soups are sometimes made with “chouriço”, a traditional Portuguese sausage used to give flavour.

Great vegetarian and vegan options can be found in the supermarket/cafeteria chain “Celeiro” in the main cities.

For more on vegan food, you might like:  Being Vegan in Lisbon, Your Plant-based Food Guide for Portugal’s Capital

16. Enjoy the fresh fish and seafood

If you’re ok eating fish and seafood , don’t miss the chance to try them in Portugal! It’s the paradise for foodies thanks to the ample choice of products freshly delivered on the day even to the smallest Lisbon restaurants .

The most commonly known dish is “Bacalhau à Brás”, made from shredded salted cod, which is ironically imported from Norway yet considered to be the national Portuguese dish eaten throughout the year and especially on Christmas Eve.

Other options include:

• Creamy seafood risotto, usually made with the catch of the day such as shrimps and varieties of fish;
• Orata or bream, known in Portuguese as “dourada”; and
• Snook, called “robalo” by the locals.

If you happen to be in Lisbon around June, you must try grilled sardines, the symbol of the city and typically consumed on a piece of bread during the Popular Saints festivals (“Festas dos Santos Populares”).

Staying safe in Portugal

17. beware of pickpockets.

This is strongly notable in Lisbon, but can also happen elsewhere, that pickpockets are wherever the tourist goes. In order to avoid unpleasant situations, make sure you do not put any valuables in the pockets of your pants or jacket, avoid using open handbags, and keep an eye on your backpack.

Pickpockets in Portugal are not likely to be aggressive, but in case you catch one during the act, the best thing to do is not to fight them and simply call for help.

In the unfortunate event of losing a valuable belonging, immediately go to the local police. In some cases they might be able to retrieve a stolen wallet with your documents inside (though it will be cashless).

18. Parking helpers expect money

So you decided to rent a car in the city and now you’re on the Odyssey of finding a parking spot.

First of all, we wish you the best of luck!

Secondly, be careful of the people who volunteer to help you park. They are expecting money in return for their kind gesture. Unless you really can’t find any other place where to park, our personal advice is to give them some coins to avoid any bad reaction from their side, such as a scratched car or a broken window.

When you are leaving Portugal

19. avoid long queues at the airports.

It’s the end of your stay and you’re already starting to miss your vacation in Portugal. Oh, how much “saudade”!

Be prepared though, the airport controls are still ahead. Many flights connecting to the Lisbon , Porto and Faro airports are operated by low-fare airlines, which means they’re located in small and not so efficient terminals.

If you’re travelling during the high season, make sure to arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance as the queues for the security check in might be extremely long.

It often happens that visitors do miss their flight because of this and you definitely don’t want to be one of them (unless you’re subconsciously trying to remain in the county, in which case we totally get you).

20. The best souvenirs are cheese, wine and olive oil

Forget about fridge magnets and bottle openers, the best souvenirs you can bring back home are food and drinks!

We strongly recommend you to spend a little extra on the checked-in luggage and go crazy on your food shopping in a local market, rather than buying the same products at the airport for double the price.

Make sure, though, that the cheese is vacuum packed as it can be confiscated at the security check. Portugal produces great creamy and curated cheeses. A must-try is Queijo da Serra and Queijo da Ilha, both commonly available in the supermarkets.

Bonus tip: Learn some survival Portuguese

You’ll be positively surprised at the level of English the younger generations of Portuguese people speak. In fact, TV shows in Portugal are not dubbed and therefore their English language education starts at an early age, so you’ll have no problem communicating with the locals.

However, they will really appreciate it if you could say at least a few words in their language as it shows an effort of understanding the Portuguese culture.

Here are some useful words and sentences for your stay in Portugal:

Hello = Olá Good morning = Bom dia Good afternoon = Boa tarde Good evening/night = Boa noite How are you? = Tudo bem? Goodbye = Adeus or Tchau! See you later = Até já Thank you = Obrigado if you are a man or Obrigada if you are a woman You’re welcome = De nada Help me = Ajuda-me Please = Por favor Sorry = Desculpe Excuse me/Pardon me (to ask to pass by someone) = Com licença I don’t speak Portuguese well = Eu não falo bem português I don’t understand = Eu não percebo Do you speak English? = Fala inglês? How much is it? = Quanto custa? Where is…? = Onde é…? Today = Hoje Tomorrow = Amanhã Yes = Sim No = Não One = Um for a masculine object and Uma for a feminine object Two= Dois for masculine objects and Duas for feminine objects Three = Três Breakfast = Pequeno-almoço Lunch = Almoço Dinner = Jantar The bill please = A conta por favor

If you would like to learn a few more Portuguese phrases, check out:  Learning Essential Phrases in Portuguese for Your Visit to Portugal

Portugal is a top European destination

Portugal has become one of the most popular European destinations in the last years thanks to its favourable climate, affordable prices and timeless beauty. With over 23 million visitors in 2017, the main cities have quickly started to adapt for welcoming an increasing amounts of travellers.

That’s it for the 20 tips of travelling in Portugal! We truly hope that you will find them useful and enjoy your stay in this beautiful country.

Did this article help you plan for your trip to Portugal? Let us know in the comments below if you have any more tips for fellow readers.

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From the picturesque cobblestone streets of Lisbon to the stunning beaches of the Algarve, there are so many unique ways to experience the local culture in Portugal. Portugal offers a rich cultural experience, and so finding memorable activities is an easy feat. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Portugal has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at 7 unique ways to experience the local culture in Portugal, providing you with incredible tours so that everything is taken care of for you.

Keep in mind that most of these tours have free cancellation, provided you do so 24 hours prior to your booking.

1. Discover Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos from Lisbon

This full-day small-group guided day trip from Lisbon allows you to explore Portugal’s rich heritage and stunning countryside, including Fátima, Óbidos, and Nazaré.

Visit the Sanctuary of Fátima, where three children saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary in 1917, and learn about its significance as a pilgrimage site.

You will also get o discover the medieval town of Óbidos, experience the life of a fisherman in the seaside village of Nazaré, and marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Batalha Monastery.

With a maximum of only 8 people, this small-group tour ensures a more personalized experience with your guide. 

2. Lisbon Half Day Private Tour

This tour is a great way of exploring Lisbon with the help of a knowledgeable personal driver that creates a customized itinerary that suits your preferences.

Stroll along the charming narrow streets of Alfama, marvel at the panoramic views from a hilltop castle, or visit the iconic UNESCO-recognized monastery and the scenic coast of Belém. It’s up to you! You can even stop at the delicious pasteis de Belem  if you have a sweet tooth!

3. Fado Live Show in Porto Cálem Wine Cellars Including Wine Tasting and Visit

Experience the true essence of Portugal with a fado show and Port wine tasting in Porto. This 45-minute performance takes place in a traditional Portuguese bar, ensuring an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the charm of live Portuguese fado music, where incredible voices sing of love, loss, and betrayal. Sip on traditional Port wine, locally grown in the vineyards of Porto, while enjoying the sound of the fado guitars for an authentic cultural experience. 

4. Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, River Cruise and Lunch From Porto

If you’re visiting Northern Portugal, don’t miss out on the Douro Valley, located near the city of Porto. This tour offers a pickup service from your hotel in Porto, and your guide will take you on a journey to discover various wine estates, breathtaking viewpoints, and a relaxing boat ride along the Douro River.

5. Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon

A tour of Sintra and Cascais is a must if you are visiting Portugal. On this tour from Lisbon, discover the natural beauty of Sintra that will take you through hidden trails and caves at Pena Park, and to the stunning Roca Cape.

The tour also includes a visit to the magnificent Pena National Palace with a knowledgeable guide. After that, we’ll take a scenic drive along the Atlantic Coast to the charming town of Cascais. Here, you can take a leisurely walk through the town and relax on its scenic beaches.

This tour is limited to only 8 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience that you’ll never forget. Book now and explore the best of Sintra with us!

6. Treasures of Lisboa Food Tours

This local tour allows you to explore Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama, and discover its rich history and delicious cuisine. As you stroll through the narrow streets, your knowledgeable guide will take you to several landmarks, including the King’s Fountain and viewpoints, while introducing you to the locals.

You’ll have the opportunity to indulge in multiple foods and beverages while enjoying a guilt-free plastic-free experience. The tour starts at a central meeting point and is limited to a small group, allowing for personalized attention from your guide. 

7. Waterfalls, lagoons & old village in Gerês Park with Lunch Included

This 4×4 tour of Peneda-Gerês National Park is the best one for nature lovers. Only an hour’s drive from Porto, you will experience beautiful landscapes, magical paths, and ancient villages filled with delicious local gastronomy.

Enjoy the hidden secrets that only locals know as we take you on a 4×4 adventure through the gorgeous mountain landscapes. You’ll enjoy walks with breathtaking views, swim in crystal clear lagoons, and find waterfalls straight out of fantasy books.

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

Last Updated: July 20, 2023

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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.

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8 Day Portugal Itinerary: Vineyards, Cities, & Villages

What is the best 8 day Portugal itinerary for first-time visitors? Is 8 days enough for Portugal?

Having traveled extensively across this stunning coastal country, I can attest to its amazing people, culture, and, of course… food! From iconic foodie destinations like Lisbon, and Coimbra to lesser-known gems like Aveiro and Guimarães, this 8-day itinerary highlights all of the amazing things first-time visitors should include on their trip.

Depending on your travel style, 8 days may sound too short or too long, but I’ve curated this itinerary to ensure it suits a multitude of travel types. We’ll be starting our journey in the vibrant city of Porto, and from there, we’ll travel down Portugal’s rugged coastline through everything from small fishing villages to the charming capital of Lisbon.

I’ve also included ample information on the best time to visit Portugal, how to get around, my personal travel tips from my own experiences, as well as ample information on how much time is typically recommended to spend in the country as a whole.

Felicidades!

The Ultimate 8 Day Portugal Itinerary

From Porto’s majestic riverfront and Douro Valley wine country in Northern Portugal to Coimbra with its famous hilltop setting on your way across Southern Europe into Nazaré or Lisbon where coastal culture awaits – there are many places that make up this gorgeous Iberian peninsula!

On this spectacular 8-day itinerary, you’ll experience the major cities, sweeping coastlines, and the lovely towns that make up the western coast of Portugal!

Day 1: Porto

Porto is a great destination for everybody. You can find modern architecture, old buildings to explore, and, of course, plenty of wine country!

Popular activities include taking boat rides from one side of the river Douro River to the other , or visiting other historic sites like São Bento Station, Luís I Bridge, and the iconic red staircase of the Livraria Lello.

Things To Do in Porto

Start your day off with brunch at Zenith – Brunch and Cocktails Bar on Praça de Carlos Alberto. They’re serving up authentic brunch menu items all day long for a delicious start to your 8 day Portugal itinerary!

After you eat, make your way towards the center of town where you can climb the red staircase of Livraria Lello before entering the impressive Iglesia de los Clérigos (Clérigos Church) boasting Porto’s iconic bell tower.

From there, check out the impressive São Bento Station before making your way over to the Porto Cathedral on your way over the famous Luís I Bridge .

Pop your head into the riverside district of Cais da Ribeira to mingle with the locals and witness stunning scenery overlooking the Douro River before grabbing lunch at one of the dozens of authentic eateries.

Spend your evening making your way up to the Muralha Fernandina , the edge of the city offering sweeping views of the Douro River, as well as some interesting history on the 14 th -century wall that is now a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Did you know that the Douro Valley is one of the best wine producers in the entire world ? If not, and you’re a wine lover, be sure to check out some of these top-rated wine tours from Porto to the Douro Valley !

In the post, we also include wine tours that take place right in Porto if you don’t have time for a day trip!

Day 2: Coimbra

Perched on the edge of the Mondego River, this vibrant city is full of side-by-side cookie-cutter houses that seem to grow up the hilltop.

Coimbra is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. It’s home to some breathtaking architecture and a unique cafe culture, but it also has plenty for tourists who need their fix of partying or shopping!

Things To Do in Coimbra

Some of the best sights in Coimbra are its awe-inspiring cathedrals like Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) and Igreja de Santa Cruz, as well as historic buildings such as the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova and the Museu do Mosteiro de Santa Clara a Velha.

You can also find excellent shops selling high-quality goods on Avenida Central, one of the main roads that goes through town.

To start your day, head to Nata Lisboa for a fresh cup of coffee and a Pastel de Nata or a light sandwich.

From here, you can either make your way down to the lovely Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra , a botanical garden offering gorgeous scenery, or up to Igreja de Santa Cruz , a popular detailed church.

Once you reach the gardens, turn left and walk down R. Infantaria 23 to the Sé Nova Cathedral (New Cathedral).

Once you’ve explored to your heart’s content, I highly suggest following the beautiful, windy streets as you make your way over the Santa Clara Bridge to the Museu do Mosteiro de Santa Clara a Velha and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova .

Spend your evening back in the center of town and enjoy late-night music and delicious tapas at the endless bars and restaurants with the locals!

Day 3: Nazaré

Nazaré, Portugal is a charming and picturesque fishing village.

Known for its strong cultural heritage from the Portuguese Azores Islands, it’s a place where you can walk around on cobblestone streets flanked by tiny colorful houses with blue-painted window shutters or wander through rolling green hills dotted with sheep to find incredible views of oceanside cliffs.

This seaside town offers a plethora of interesting sights and activities. From its natural beauty to its fascinating past, you’ll find yourself wanting to spend more time than just one day exploring the area.

Spend your evenings enjoying fresh seafood, local wines, and tapas at any restaurant!

Things To Do in Nazaré

When you’re on vacation, there’s no reason you can’t devour a delicious breakfast every morning! Head to Village Brunch and Coffee for freshly squeezed juices and authentic brunch recipes that continue bringing in both locals and tourists alike.

For your first day in Nazaré, I suggest exploring the town and major sites and attractions so you don’t feel rushed on your second day. But, you can choose to relax on the beach if your feet need a break from the first few days of sightseeing.

If you do decide to explore the town, start by wandering the dozens of tiny cobblestone streets behind Nazaré Beach. Check out the hand-crafted shops, the tiny tapas bars, and chat with the locals!

If you have time, check out the impressive Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré), a 14 th -century shrine with an interesting history of the Virgin Mary behind it!

Before beginning your all-night fiasco out on the town, climb up to the Mirador del Suberco – it’s the best lookout in Nazaré offering panoramic views of the city!

Day 4: Nazaré

A quaint fisherman’s village with just enough space between individual homes so each resident has unobstructed access both along the coastline and around inland areas perfect for exploration, Nazaré is one of the most popular destinations on this 8 days Portugal itinerary.

Today is the day for the beach! Nazaré is full of beautiful beaches including the popular Nazaré Beach , as well as North Beach .

One of the most famous places in the world for its extremely high surf, the waves here occasionally reach up to 30 meters high (100 feet)! Though there are plenty of days where the waves will be just right for body surfing and kids, use caution when the seas are rough.

Want to enjoy a small hike after your day relaxing in the hot sand and turquoise blue waters? Make your way over to the Fortress São Miguel Arcanjo and Farol da Nazaré !

These scenic hikes will provide sweeping views of the Portuguese coastline and Nazaré Beach for some of the best picture opportunities on this side of the country!

Afterward, make your way into town again where you’ll see how this once small fishing village has become an epicenter of hospitable charm. Though fishing is no longer the main source of income due to the major influx in tourism, there is no shortage of character here.

The women still dress in traditional wear and you can watch your food get cooked right in front of you on the streets over large vats of open flames.

Though more touristy now, Nazaré is one of the most authentic destinations on this 8 day Portugal itinerary!

Day 5: Óbidos – a highlight on this 8 day Portugal itinerary!

Known for its medieval charms, Óbidos should be at the top of your Portugal itinerary. The village has been inhabited since Roman times and is famous as one of Europe’s best-preserved walled villages.

Visitors come from all over to explore the cobbled streets, beautiful castle ruins with stunning views out across lush green hillsides or down towards a tranquil river below – whichever way they turn their gaze!

Things To Do in Óbidos

Start your day with a delicious breakfast from the local hotspot, Cantina do Parque , before heading off on a journey to the infamous Castelo de Óbidos .

Keep in mind that this restaurant is about 4 kilometers from the main part of the city, so if you can’t get on the train and don’t have a car available to you, it might be better to find a restaurant closer to town.

While the castle will likely take you the majority of the day, if you’re a quick sightseer, then you’ll also be able to fit in the Museu da Cerâmica , as well.

Take the 35-minute train ride from Óbidos Station to the Caldas da Rainha Station to get there (this same train can also get you to the great breakfast spot I mentioned above).

The town of Óbidos may be small, but it’s packed with things to do. Spend your time wandering the cobblestone streets and take some pictures of the stunning buildings!

And don’t forget about food – there are plenty of local cafes where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes like octopus salad or squid ink pasta while people-watching at window seats by the streetside cafés!

Day 6: Sintra

Sitting high in the hills about an hour outside of Lisbon, this quaint little village offers locals and tourists alike an experience like no other! The best part about exploring it?

The towering 12 th -century Pena Palace is surrounded by a beautiful green park full of hiking trails and scenic overlooks!

Things To Do in Sintra

Sintra is known for its grand architecture, palaces, and fortresses, making this one of the most medieval towns in Portugal. Start your day in the center of town and grab a bite at the popular Café Saudade for breakfast.

From here, hop on the train at the Largo C.M. Sintra Station and take the 16-minute ride to the Palacio da Pena Station. You’ll only have about a 7-minute walk to the palace.

Explore the impressive Pena Palace and its surrounding gardens for hours on end as each new room is more beautiful than the last! Take dozens of pictures from this sky-high perspective, roam the corridors, and finish your afternoon with lunch at the restaurant.

Once you have finished exploring the palace, you can do one of two things (or both if you move quickly!): you can take a 10-minute walk up to the Castelo dos Mouros , a Moorish fortress dating back to the 8 th -century, or you can take an hour and 15-minute train ride to the Cabo da Roca – the most western point in Europe!

Personally, I think you can fit in both. Get up at the crack of dawn to explore Pena Palace and the surrounding gardens, walk up to the hilltop Moorish fortress for a quick visit, then come back down and hop on the train.

The Cabo da Roca offers one of the best views in Europe and deserves to be on your 8 day Portugal itinerary, so do yourself a favor and try to squeeze it in!

If I haven’t convinced you yet, check out my 7 reasons why the Cabo da Roca is one of the best day trips from Lisbon or my Ultimate Day Trip to Sintra Guide and Itinerary !

✔️ Pro Tip: Get your lunch to go from the restaurant or pack lunches for the day and eat them on the train to save time!

Day 7: Cascais

Lively and historic Cascais is a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience Portuguese culture.

With its cobblestone streets, azure beaches, delicious restaurants on the water’s edge and charming villas set in vineyards overlooking the ocean—Cascais offers visitors an abundance of things to do!

The best way to enjoy the gorgeous city of Cascais is by wandering through its historic streets or exploring its many charming shops for souvenirs.

From medieval castles to beautiful beaches framed by lush green hillsides, there are so many things you can do while visiting this historically rich coastal hub.

Things To Do in Cascais

Our suggestion is to start with breakfast at Local – Your Healthy Kitchen Cascais , an authentic Portuguese restaurant serving up top-quality meals from breakfast through dinner. Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, do as a tourist does and take to the streets!

Cascais is full of vibrant craft shops, a Portuguese-designed square layered with white and blue bricks, and streetside cafes serving up afternoon espressos and tapas!

Cascais is one of our favorite towns on this 8 day Portugal itinerary for its traditional design, unique local eateries, and beautiful layout. Once you’re done exploring the town, it’s time to take a peek at a few of this town’s top sights!

As you make your way down to the point of Santa Marta, you’ll be rewarded with exquisite ocean views, the Santa Marta Lighthouse and Museum , the Citadel of Cascais , and the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães .

However, there’s one attraction that not many people get to. If you’re up for a quick 10-minute walk to the western end of the point, you’ll witness the incredible cliffs of the Boca do Inferno (that’s me pictured above!)

You’ll often see fishermen climbing down these impressive cliffs casting deep inside the caves, and locals enjoying a lunch nearby.

As one of the most special parts of Cascais, I highly suggest including it on your 8 day Portugal itinerary!

✔️ Pro Tip : When you get down to the viewing platform, you’ll notice a break between the cliffside and the platform on the right-hand side. This is where the fishermen walk down to get closer to the water for casting. This is also how I got that really cool picture above! Follow it for a great picture opportunity, and don’t worry, it’s not as dangerous as it looks.

Day 8: Estoril

Estoril has many great sights within its borders-from the beautiful sandy beaches of Tamariz , Azarujinha , and Poça , to the historic buildings with fascinating stories about their past inhabitants, and quaint cafes tucked away behind plazas where locals gather over coffee or drinks at sunset.

From the beautiful town center with its quaint shops and cafes to the world-class golf courses that tempt you at every turn, there’s no shortage of things to do in Estoril!

Things To Do in Estoril

Before jumping into the waves for some surf or falling head over heels in love with a Portuguese dress, start off with a hearty breakfast at Pastelaria Garrett !

This restaurant offers everything from traditional home-cooked recipes to classic staples, making it the perfect way to start your day.

Then, similar to Cascais, just start exploring! Estoril and Cascais are a classic duo day trip on any Portugal itinerary that includes Lisbon, so enjoy the square, chat with the locals, buy yourself an authentic Portuguese souvenir , then relax on the beach for the ultimate day in Estoril!

Got a history buff in your group? Check out the local museum, Casa das Histórias Paula Rego , which offers eclectic exhibits and artwork by the Portuguese-born artist, Paula Rego in an architecturally distinct setting.

End your evening with wine and tapas at one of the dozens of seaside cafes and bars set along the beautiful coastline! You also have the option of adding one of these 11 Incredible Lisbon Boat Tours to your itinerary if you’re so inclined.

✔️ Pro Tip: This marks the end of our 8 day Portugal itinerary, but if you happen to have the ability to join a 10 days Portugal itinerary or more, consider these fun add-ons! You’ll likely need to fly or take the train out of Lisbon anyway, so why not add an extra day or two for exploring Portugal’s vibrant capital?!

Optional 8-Day Portugal Itinerary Add-Ons

Day 9: lisbon.

A city bustling with culture, Lisbon is an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re looking for gorgeous views or a rich history to explore, this port town has something that will suit your tastes!

With so many amazing sites, attractions, landmarks, and panoramic views, you’ll want to spend at least two days in Lisbon if you can fit it into your 8-day Portugal itinerary.

If not, then check out my article on how to spend one day in Lisbon for everything you’ll need to know about exploring the best this vibrant capital has to offer in just 24 hours!

Since Lisbon is a rather large city with lots of steep hills, it’s best to divide the city between two days so you don’t retrace your steps and end up climbing the same hills over and over.

Things To Do in Lisbon

For the first day, we’ll be focusing on the western side of the city near the Chiado , Cais do Sodre , and the Bairro Alto neighborhoods.

Want to take a ride on one of those yellow trolleys you see going everywhere? Head to Chiado where you can get on the Elevador da Bica , or the Bica Funicular! It will take you down the popular Rua de São Paulo and Rua do Loreto for a fun activity in Lisbon.

Once you get off, wander through the nearby Ribeira market where you’ll be able to explore dozens of stalls offering handmade crafts, different food options from around the world, as well as traditional Portuguese recipes! This is the best place to get lunch in Lisbon.

Once you’ve finished lunch, it’s time to take to the streets. Since many of the major attractions lie in Lisbon’s eastern side, use today’s for getting lost in Lisbon’s tiny, charming streets and sampling as many local foods as you can.

It may be one of your last days on your Portugal itinerary, so relax and enjoy the view!

Day 10: Lisbon

On your second day in Lisbon, we’ll be focusing on the eastern side of the city around the Alfama and Baixa de Lisboa districts. Start your day in the Praça do Comércio , the main square of Lisbon.

I would avoid getting a sit-down breakfast in this area as it tends to be rather touristy and you’re more likely to experience inflated prices and poor quality service, but a quick pastel de nata and a coffee in this area will do just fine!

From here, walk under the main arch of the square and follow Rua Augusta, one of the most popular shopping streets in Lisbon.

When you get to the end, you’ll be greeted by the impressive Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel , a medieval 12 th -century Catholic church that was destroyed during the famous Lisbon earthquake of 1755.

You’ll also have the opportunity to ride up the Santa Justa Lift which offers spectacular views of the city!

From here, I suggest taking a trolley back down to the start of the Alfama district where you can explore the Lisbon Cathedral , St. Anthony’s Church , and the Museu do Fado (Music Museum of Portugal).

Alfama is also home to two beautiful observation decks in Lisbon, both offering incredible panoramic views of the city’s red clay rooftops and Tagus River.

The first is called Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the second is Miradouro de Santa Luzia and are within close proximity to each other, though you may want to take advantage of the trolley to get you up the hill!

If your feet are up for it (though you can take a trolley), make your way up to the Moorish Quarter and step out onto the terrace of the Mirador de Graça .

Take in the stunning views of Portugal and reminisce on all of the magical experiences you’ve gained thus far! Then, make your way back to one of these amazing hotels in Lisbon with rooftop pools .

What To Do if You Want a 10+ Days Portugal Itinerary

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days available for spending in Portugal, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in Europe… one of them being the Algarve .

Aptly named, the Algarve is a paradise on Earth. It’s one of Europe’s southernmost regions with sandy beaches and crystal blue waters that make it hard to believe you’re still in Portugal! It’s also one of the best regions in Portugal to go sea kayaking !

Spend a few days exploring the dozens of scenic beaches like the one shown above ( Marinha Beach ), kayak through sea caves to the infamous Benagil Caves , or take a boat ride through the scenic Ponta da Piedade .

Stroll the city streets of Lagos to find authentic souvenirs and enjoy some tapas around every corner!

Once you’ve taken in all the sun you can, head up to the Castelo de Silves , a Moorish castle offering spectacular views of this tranquil coastline.

For the evening or on an additional day, spend at least a few hours exploring the tight network of whitewashed houses in the Old Town Of Albufeira ! This beautiful village mimics almost that of Santorini, Greece, and is known for its delicious, local seafood and hospitable people.

Some other great trips to fit in on your Portuguese itinerary include the coastal cities of Sines , Vila Nova de Milfontes , and the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina !

7 Days Portugal Itinerary Option

If you don’t quite have 8 days to spend in Portugal, don’t fret! That’s still plenty of time to see and do a lot of the fun things in this culturally packed country.

While you could cut the above itinerary down so you only have between a half and full day in each place, I don’t think you’ll get the most out of your trip that way, and you could end up becoming disappointed and overwhelmed by the amount of traveling you’ll need to do.

Instead, here is an updated 7 days Portugal itinerary that dedicates time to the absolute best places to visit with the right amount of time in each place for when you’re traveling on a time crunch!

Day 2: Óbidos

Day 4: sintra, day 5: cascais and estoril, day 6: lisbon, day 7: lisbon.

This new 7-day Portugal itinerary cuts down your time in Nazaré to one day and eliminates the town of Coimbra.

While Coimbra is beautiful, you’ll actually see a lot of similar sights in both Nazaré and Lisbon, so Coimbra is really only necessary if you have enough time to make it work.

This itinerary also has you combine both Cascais and Estoril into one day. Now don’t stress, the two towns are within walking distance of each other!

On our first trip to Portugal, we did both Cascais and Estoril in a single day, then actually took the train back to our Lisbon accommodation. It’s extremely easy to walk around these two towns when you’re short on time, so don’t worry, you won’t feel stressed.

Lastly, we kept the itinerary to include the two days in Lisbon. Since the capital is such a large city with dozens of museums, nearly half a dozen scenic overlooks scattered between each district, and dozens of cathedrals, churches, and famous landmarks to see, it’s nearly impossible to do it all in one day.

Plus, since you’ll be nearing the end of your trip, you’ll want to be able to enjoy your last few days without being stuck on public transportation or wasting time getting from place to place.

For your last few days in Lisbon, enjoy some olives and wine, get lost in the city streets, have a pastel de nata and an espresso, chat with some locals, and photograph every nook and cranny of the city!

Travel Tips for Visiting Portugal

Portugal may be one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe, but before you go jetting out your door, there are a few things you should know.

• In Portugal, the locals speak Portuguese, not Spanish . Do your best to learn a few phrases before you get there since many of the smaller towns won’t be as familiar with English and other languages.
• Hopefully, you like seafood . The Portuguese are very big into utilizing the freshest ingredients from their local landscapes which, of course, mainly includes the ocean. Fresh seafood, wine, and olives are a large part of Portuguese cuisine.
• It gets very hot in the summer . If you aren’t someone who loves the beach, but plans to visit Portugal during the summer months, be prepared for hot days and extreme amounts of sunlight. You also won’t find many shops and restaurants with air conditioning, so keep that in mind when planning your 8 day Portugal itinerary.
• Portugal uses the euro for currency . Worth less than the U.S. dollar, be prepared to lose a little bit of money on exchange rates if you are coming from the U.S.
• Pack good walking shoes . As you’ll learn more about below, the best way to get around Portugal’s small towns and cities is to walk! Be sure to pack supportive walking shoes that will successfully get you up and down hills and over dozens of cobblestoned streets.
• If you don’t want the hors d’oeuvre, send it back . It’s normal for waiters to bring you a small dish of bread and olives before you order food at a restaurant. If you don’t want it, however, kindly ask them to take it away, otherwise you will pay a few euros for it.
• If you want to see museums, try to visit on Sunday . Some museums in Lisbon and Porto offer free entry on Sundays!
• Watch your belongings . While pickpocketing isn’t as common here as it is in other European cities, you should still keep an eye on your belongings and never leave them unattended.
• If you order a café, you’re going to get an espresso . The Portuguese often start their days with a shot of espresso, so if you’re looking for something with milk, be sure to ask for a meia de leite instead.
• 112 is the equivalent of 911 . If you have an emergency and need emergency services, be sure to call 112! It’s free to call.

The Best Time to Visit Portugal

While Portugal is a wonderful destination to visit year-round, there are a few things you should consider before planning your 8 day Portugal itinerary.

First, think about your travel style . Do you have your heart set on soaking up the sun on one of the dozens of beaches in Cascais ? Or would you prefer to explore the secret castles and do some hiking in Sintra without the swarms of other tourists?

While Portugal is the perfect place to visit in summer, you’re going to experience it with tens of thousands of other people. Don’t get me wrong, if you don’t mind the tourists, this is the best time to visit Portugal!

The weather is warm enough for swimming but not too hot that you can’t explore the beautiful cities on foot, and people come from faraway places as well as nearby countries like France, Spain or Italy – making it a popular tourist destination year-round with many things to do such as late-night concerts at church squares on weekends!

However, if you’re looking to avoid the tourist season, it’s best to travel to Portugal outside of the summer months of June through August . May will still provide warm weather and the majority of shops, bars, and restaurants will be beginning their summer hours.

September offers a nice relief from the summer heat just before fall sets in with warm ocean temperatures and a comfortable air temperature, so you’ll still be able to squeeze in a few good beach days on your itinerary!

How to Get Around Portugal

While you have a few options for getting around Portugal, there are some ways that are more regularly suggested. First, when you’re in the major cities of Lisbon and Porto, avoid renting a car .

The streets often climb steep, narrow hills, and cross paths with the local trams and trolleys. Not to mention the thousands of tourists and lack of parking, save the car rentals for when you’re leaving the main cities.

The best way to get around in each of the places we discussed is to walk ! The majority of Portugal’s towns and cities are extremely walkable with the majority of attractions being within close proximity to each other.

You can also rent bikes for a fun and local way of seeing a town! Bikes provide the perfect combination of convenience and efficient sightseeing on a budget, so this is a highly recommended family or couples activity you can do.

To get between major cities, Portugal has a great public transportation system where you can take either a train or bus . However, the train doesn’t stop everywhere, so be prepared to make several connections and do some walking in between stations if you’ll be visiting more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

➡️ For a full guide on train travel between Porto and Lisbon , read my post about it here !

If your 8 day Portugal itinerary involves many small towns, it’s usually recommended to fly into Porto or Lisbon, enjoy the city, and then rent a car when you plan on leaving.

This will save you the headache of dealing with a rental in busy cities, but will allow you the freedom to explore smaller destinations on your own schedule!

What to Eat on Your 8 Day Portugal Itinerary

Portugal’s cuisine and wine are a delight for visitors with tastes from all over the world. Portuguese dishes can range from traditional to modern depending on where you eat them, but one thing is certain: Portugal has some of the best seafood in Europe!

Owing to its incredible bounty from the local waters, locals and tourists can enjoy generous quantities of the freshest seafood around.

The food here ranges from small dishes (tapas) like sandwiches to large plates of hearty stews or roasted meats, all served alongside wine and sangria (my personal favorite).

Foods you should try while visiting Portugal include their world-famous olives ! They come both as tapenade for appetizers along with breads including prosciutto crostini or garlic toast, but also on their own skewered over open flames during the evening hours at many restaurants.

Seafood can be found everywhere: sardines ( Sardinhas Assadas ) get grilled up by vendors who line Avenida da Liberdade opposite Lisbon’s grandest shopping district near Rossio Square, octopus salad is served along streetside restaurants on the boardwalk to the west of Praça do Comércio, and squid ink pasta is a delicacy found in restaurants all over the country.

For a fresh, white fish, try the most commonly eaten fish in Portugal: Bacalhau !

Then, there’s the oh-so-good famous Portuguese custard tarts: the Pastel de Nata (Pasteis de Nata is the plural form).

These buttery, flaky, bite-sized tarts are the perfect sweet breakfast or on-the-go snack that you can find all over Portugal.

Don’t like creamy textures? Don’t worry, I don’t either. But, the perfectly crisp and flaky crust creates an unbeatable balance that you’ll be devouring one after another!

Now, we can’t talk about Portuguese cuisine without even mentioning the wine … sangria is a large part of Portuguese culture so be ready to get whisked away with 1€ glasses filled with fresh fruit for 24 hours of happy hour!

Another reason to leave those heels at home, a few of these and you’ll be relaxing at a riverside cafe in no time… isn’t it nice that Portugal is so affordable? Remember that red wine pairs nicely with meats and hearty stews, while white wine is most often paired with fish and light pasta dishes.

As for traditional dishes, be sure to try some of the country’s specialties including Caldo Verde , a green soup made with kale, potatoes, olive oil, and sometimes chorizo, and Piri Piri Chicken which is spicy marinated whole chickens that get roasted over high heat and flames – very popular all over the country!

Then, there’s a dish for all of the true meat eaters out there – the Cozido à Portuguesa !

This traditional dish starts with a layer of flavorful rice and potatoes and is then topped with an array of slow-roasted meats of all sorts and covered in the drippings.

Served with some wilted cabbage, this authentic Portuguese dish is bound to make it on anyone’s 8 day Portugal itinerary!

FAQ: 8 Day Portugal Itinerary

How many days is ideal for portugal.

In my opinion, 10 days is ideal for spending in Portugal since you’ll have enough time to explore the cities, relax on the beaches, sample wine in the Douro Valley, and even kayak through the Benagil Caves!

While it is possible to spend just one day in Porto or Lisbon, there is so much more to see in this beautiful country that will take much longer than a single day in each place. Portugal is a country with so many natural attractions and historical landmarks that you can spend weeks here exploring!

Beaches are popular spots to enjoy the sun, the cities are known to have some of the best food in Europe, and the small villages are bursting with unparalleled charm and coastal views.

Everywhere you look there’s something new to be explored in this dazzling paradise! From the mainland all the way to the remote Azores, I recommend spending at least one week in Portugal if you can.

Otherwise, you may regret not planning for more time and wishing you had made other arrangements. The best way to go about planning your own 8 day Portugal itinerary is to keep as many things fluid as possible.

Book flexible accommodations with a 24-hour notice cancellation policy, wait to buy your train tickets until you get to the station, and only buy tickets for attractions that you are positive you’ll be attending.

While all of these things can cause stress in the long run if you end up following your itinerary to a T, they’ll also give you the flexibility to change or cancel your plans in the event that you decide to stay in a certain place longer or to skip the second night in a place and move on to the next destination.

Can You Do Portugal in 8 Days?

You can absolutely see most of the major sites and attractions from Porto all the way down to Lisbon in just 8 days !

You’ll be able to spend some time relaxing on the beach, exploring the endless cobblestone streets, sampling dozens of unique restaurants, and shopping in trendy shops and boutiques.

If you’re looking to explore further down the coast of Portugal where the Algarves begin, you will likely need at least 10 days to avoid feeling rushed.

However, if sticking around the major cities and train stops is your ideal vacation, then 8 days in Portugal is enough time!

Is a Week Too Long in Portugal?

One week is not too long to spend in Portugal, in fact, a 7-day Portugal itinerary can be the perfect amount of time to explore the country’s rich diversity, encompassing its stunning coastal towns, historic cities, and breathtaking countryside .

If you’re a backpacker or enjoy being on the move, I can see why you may think spending a full week in just one country can be a time-consuming choice, but despite Portugal’s compact size, the country has some of the most beautiful and diverse regions of anywhere in Europe!

From the vibrant streets of Lisbon and the Douro Valley’s incredible wine estates to the serene beauty of the Algarve’s beaches, a 7-day journey offers a well-rounded experience of Portugal’s unique charm.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Portugal for 8 Day?

Portugal is well-known for its history and culture, as well as the stunning natural landscapes that it has to offer. But, it’s especially great for those looking to travel on a budget!

Portugal offers inexpensive prices in comparison to other popular European countries such as France or Italy. This makes it an excellent destination not only for tourists but also young, or budget travelers who are seeking an affordable vacation.

While prices will vary by the season that you visit Portugal, with summer being the most expensive, I have pulled a few averages to help you get an estimate of how much money you will need to budget for your 8 day Portugal itinerary.

Based on each section, add up what you believe you will be taking part in to help figure out what you will be spending.

Transportation (per trip and person)

Flights : varies on date and season, check Expedia for the best deals ! Car Rental (for 8 days) : 330€ Taxi : 6.50€ Trolley Ride : 3€ Metro : 1.50€ High-Speed Train (Porto to Lisbon) : 35€

Breakfast : 1.40-6€ Lunch : 6-10€ Dinner : 9-20€ Multiple Course Meal (2 people) : 40€ * Get out of the main tourist squares to find food on the lower end of the above prices! *

Attractions

Pena National Palace and Park : 13.30€/11.88€ Belém Tower : 8.50€ Castelo dos Mouros : 7.60€/6.18€ Santa Justa Lift: 5.30€ (purchase tickets at lift) Lisbon Card : 19-42€

Accommodation (per night)

Budget Hostel : 16-60€ Mid-Range Hotel : 80-120€ Luxury Hotel : 136-600€+

Which City is Better Porto or Lisbon?

This depends on a number of items including what your goals are sightseeing-wise, if you plan on going to the beach, how many museums you would like to visit, and so on.

So, to determine which city is better for you , we’re going to explain how each one rates in terms of each item, which will help you decide which one to visit if you don’t have time for both on your Portugal itinerary!

If you’re a true history buff looking to dive deep into Portugal’s ancient history, then you better ensure that Lisbon is on your itinerary! While Porto does have several great museums, Lisbon boasts 62 in the city alone.

And if you get the Lisbon Museum Card , then you’ll have unlimited access to dozens of museums as you make your way around the city.

While Porto is set on the beautiful Douro River, the majority of the beaches require some traveling to the west coast which would take over an hour to walk to or about a 30-minute train ride.

Lisbon, on the other hand, is home to almost a dozen beaches right in front of the city, as well as dozens more a short train ride away to the seaside towns of Cascais and Estoril.

If you have a heavy focus on sunbathing on your Portugal vacation, then Lisbon is your go-to city!

When it comes to attractions, Lisbon simply has a lot more to offer for a few reasons. Since it’s the capital of the country, you’re going to find the most amount of major landmarks and sites that the country wants to conveniently show its visitors.

It also brings in nearly double the amount of tourists than Porto every year, so naturally, there are far more businesses and shopping districts to explore here.

Porto is often described as a compact, mini Lisbon, so you’re going to find fewer attractions and fewer tourists in this city (which is usually a good thing!)

As for the scenery, we believe these two cities are pretty equal. They both offer iconic lookouts, red clay rooftops, and stunning settings perched over a river.

While Lisbon may be the larger city, Porto is no less beautiful with its charming, yellow tram and infinite amount of riverside cafes. When it comes to beautiful scenery, you can’t go wrong visiting either Porto or Lisbon!

When it comes to nightlife, Lisbon takes the win on this one. Due to its cosmopolitan atmosphere and sheer quantity of bars, restaurants, and exotic nightclubs, there’s no end in sight to the exciting experiences you can have here.

Visitors can stroll down the iconic Pink Street after dark listening to live music and pop in and out of over a dozen bars on this single, lively strip.

As for Porto, you’re more likely to enjoy quieter evenings along the river eating tapas and drinking wine with some locals. Depending on your definition of going out for a night on the town, either city may please you.

3 Best Hidden Gems in Portugal!

Want to escape the city of Lisbon and get off the beaten path? Me too!

​ Check out this ultimate guide where I tell you all about the best hidden gems in Portugal – from the beaches in Cascais to the vineyards of the Douro Valley… and more!

If you’re planning your Portugal vacation and don’t know where to start, this guide will get you exploring this vibrant country like a local!

Other Helpful Portugal Resources

Is Lisbon Safe? 21+ Tips for Staying Safe in Lisbon Portugal 21 Best Portugal Packing List Items for 2024: What to Wear in Portugal The Complete Guide to the Supermarkets in Lisbon Barcelona vs Lisbon: The Ultimate City Comparison The Beautiful National Symbols of Portugal: Bird, Animal, Tree, Flower, Fish, & More! Does it Snow in Portugal? The Complete Guide

Portugal might be one of the most underrated countries in Europe that I have had the pleasure of visiting so far! It offers gorgeous scenery, great cities with bustling nightlife and vibrant culture, as well as fresh cuisine that will keep your taste buds happy.

With all of this and so much more, there’s no wondering why Portugal itineraries top the list as some of the most popular in the entire world! Before jetting off on your Portuguese vacation, be sure to use my helpful tips and advice for planning your ultimate 8 day Portugal itinerary .

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Portugal Cultural Cruises

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• Food & Wine
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• Private Yacht Charter
• River Cruises
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Land & Sea Exploration
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• Small Ship Cruises
• Small Ship Sailing
• Urban Exploration
• Village Visits
• Whale Watching
• Wildlife Viewing
• Wine Tasting
• Emerald Radiance
• Le Dumont-d'Urville
• MS Amadouro
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• MS Fernao de Magalhaes
• MS Gil Eanes
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• S.S. Sao Gabriel
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Douro River Valley

• Explore the Ribeira district
• Visit Castelo Rodrigo
• Enjoy private tastings of Port wine

Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon

• Visit Ruins of Lisbon
• Experience Roman times.
• Explore Douro Valley
• Amaze with eclecticmix architecture

Northwest Africa and its Islands

• Explore Dakar
• Witness Atlantic coasts
• Discover colonial influences
• Encounter Dakhla and Madeira
• Cruise different ports

European Coastal Cruise: France, Spain & Portugal

• Tour Honfleur's Maritime Heritage
• Visit Saint-Malo
• Explore Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum
• Sample Port Wine in Porto
• Tour Lisbon's Iconic Monuments

Western Europe Wonders

• Explore Lisbon's Monuments
• Enjoy Belle Île's coast and beaches
• Explore London's iconic landmarks
• Indulge in Porto's port wine

Vineyards & Vignettes

• Visit UNESCO-recognized sites

Lisbon & Secrets of the Douro

Mystique of the azores.

• Explore Azores Islands
• Experience Ponta Delgada
• Stroll Praia da Vitória
• Hike Vigia da Queimada

Best of France & Iberia

• Explore waterways in Amsterdam
• Discover Guernsey's Fairy Ring
• Visit UNESCO-listed vineyards
• Savor Porto's famous port wine

Secrets of the Douro

• Visit Quinta do Tedo vineyard
• Experience Roman times
• Admire eclectic mix architecture

Top Portugal Travel Destinations

• Douro River

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• Cycle down the Douro River to the Atlantic coast, from Porto to Matosinhos
• Float down the vineyard-lined Douro Valley on a rabelo boat
• Sample locally produced wine in the lesser-known Alentejo region
• Watch the sunset from the Troia Peninsula
• Stroll along the secluded beaches of Sesimbra
• Picnic with a view on a Lisbon hilltop

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• High Adventure
• Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

Attractions.

• Douro Valley
• Wine Tasting

Trip includes

• One night Douro Valley winery accommodation
• Three nights boutique hotel accommodation
• Four nights premium hotel accommodation
• Private and local transport
• Eight breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners
• Local Insider
• Porto culinary walking tour
• Matosinhos cycle tour
• Douro Valley hike
• River Douro rabelo ride
• Quinta da Pacheca wine tasting
• Coimbra visit
• Arrábida Natural Park hike and drive
• Azeitão and pasteis de belem tasting
• Lisbon walking tour
• Miradouros picnic
• Lisbon tram ride
• Belem walking tour
• Alentejo winery tour and tasting

Accommodation: Hotel Moon & Sun

Activities Included: Welcome dinner

Activities Included: Porto orientation tour, Matosinhos cycle tour

Accommodation: Quinta da Pacheca

Activities Included: Douro Valley hike, River Douro rabelo ride, Quinta da Pacheca wine tasting

Accommodation: Troia Design Hotel

Activities Included: Coimbra visit

Optional Activities: SUP lesson

Accommodation: Hotel My Story Figueira

Activities Included: Arrábida Natural Park walk and drive, Azeitão pastry tasting

Activities Included: Lisbon walking tour, Miradouros picnic, Tram ride, Belem walking tour & Pasteis de belem tasting

Activities Included: Alentejo winery tour and tasting, Farewell dinner

Optional Activities: Evora visit

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before packing your bags and checking out of the hotel. Wave goodbye to your group at 11am and make your way to Lisbon Airport – or extend your stay in Portugal.

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Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Culture Trip .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Culture trip.

TRIPS by Culture Trip For over a decade, people have trusted Culture Trip to help them discover some of the world’s coolest and unexpected destinations and experiences - now we can take you there. Book our curated multi-day TRIPS by Culture Trip itineraries, to truly experience extraordinary places, together with a small group of culturally curious travellers.

Our travel experts have done all the planning to create exciting and perfectly balanced itineraries combining unique stays, immersive activities and authentic experiences, with enough free time to explore on your own and unwind. On the trips, our Local Insiders are with you to show you their destination like never before, share their insights and take you to the secret spots you couldn't find yourself. With TRIPS by Culture Trip, we help you experience the world while being good to it, and to connect with a place, its people and its culture. And because we know that booking travel with confidence is more important than ever, we are committed to making it hassle-free for you. About Culture Trip Culture Trip was created in 2011 to inspire people to go beyond their cultural boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people, and its culture special, unique, and meaningful. So for over a decade now, Culture Trip’s global community of travel experts and Local Insiders have hand picked the world’s best bits to share travel stories and unbiased recommendations, together with curated collections of places to stay, hotels, things to do, experiences - and now also TRIPS by Culture Trip which are unique small-group adventures. Why TRIPS by Culture Trip? A small-group travel experience Together with a small group of culturally curious travellers, you get to truly experience - not just visit - the world. Groups will welcome up to 18 travellers and you can join solo or with others. Our small groups enable you to get to know the other travellers, bond quickly and enjoy your trip to the fullest whilst building friendships and forming life-long memories. Curated itineraries For our curated, diverse itineraries, our travel experts do all the planning and hand-pick the best bits of a place: all itineraries combine hyper-local, authentic activities and immersive experiences, with quality accommodation that has a personal feel. Whether that’s well-known hotspots or more off-grid trails, city or nature - with us, they will all feel like hidden gems. Thoughtfully planned with ample free time to unwind or explore solo, our trips offer the right balance of action and relaxation. Local Insider Our trips are led by expert Local Insiders who know the destination inside out and show a place like never before. They share unique insights and in-depth knowledge, show lesser-known places and reveal hidden gems that travellers might not be able to access or do on their own. They also take you to secret spots you couldn’t find yourself and activities that are impossible to do on your own or you wouldn’t have otherwise discovered. Value and quality TRIPS by Culture Trip is not about the lowest price. Trying to be the cheapest just isn’t good for our planet or for local communities - so we focus on value and quality, while offering fair prices. Prices include the Local Insider; activities; accommodation based on two people sharing, with single occupancy available with a supplement; transport throughout the trip and a range of meals.

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• Lisbon Belem District: Travel Guide
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• Transportation
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• Portugal Golden Visa

Portuguese Culture and Traditions: A Journey Through the Wonders

Bem-vindo! That’s “welcome” in Portuguese, the official language of Portugal.

This sun-kissed country, with its Atlantic coastline and stunning architecture, has a population of over 10 million and a rich history influenced by many communities throughout the centuries.

From the Sephardic Jews to the Vikings, Phoenicians, and Celtics, Portugal has embraced a mix of cultures that has left its mark on the country’s traditions and way of life.

Today, Portugal is a member of the European Community, and its culture is as vibrant and unique as ever. From the world-famous port wine to the lively fado music festivals, Portugal is a country that has something for everyone.

In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the colorful festivals, rich traditions, and fascinating culture that make Portugal so special. So come along, and let’s explore the wonders of Portuguese culture and traditions together!

Table of Contents

Festivals and Celebrations

Portugal is a country that loves to celebrate, and its calendar is filled with many festivals and celebrations. Many of these traditions have been passed down for generations, and they give you an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the Portuguese people.

One of the most famous festivals in Portugal is the “Festa de São João,” also known as St. John’s Festival, which takes place on the night of June 23rd. Celebrated mainly in the city of Porto, the festival is a colorful celebration of the summer solstice. The streets come alive with music, dancing, and bonfires. People honor Saint John the Baptist and enjoy the warm weather with friends and family.

Another popular festival is the “Festa de Nossa Senhora da Agonia” in Viana do Castelo. This three-day festival takes place every August, and it’s a time to honor the Virgin of Agony. Thousands of people attend, and the festival is filled with music, parades, and delicious food.

Food is an integral part of many of Portugal’s festivals. In the St. John and St. Peter festivals, for instance, sardines are grilled in the streets, and caldo verde soup is served. Wine and bread are also commonly consumed during these celebrations. Other festivals are dedicated to food such as bread, cheese, olive oil, or wine.

The November 11 celebration of Saint Martin’s Day is a time to try a new wine. People drink liquor and wine and eat roasted Portuguese chestnuts while enjoying a bonfire.

Christmas is a time for family and food, and traditional Portuguese dishes like codfish and boiled potatoes are served. Sweets like cakes of chickpeas are also eaten during this time.

Portugal also has a long history of celebrating the carnival. Some of these traditions date back several centuries, and many are similar to the Brazilian Carnival. At these carnivals, parades, music, and dancing are the order of the day, and they’re a great way to experience the festive spirit of the Portuguese people.

Food and Cuisine

If you’re a foodie, then you’ll love Portugal’s culinary offerings. The country’s cuisine is a mix of different cultures, and it varies by region. However, wine, bread, and olive oil are essential parts of Portuguese cuisine.

If you’re a bread lover, then you need to try bros, the traditional bread of Portugal. It’s especially popular in the northwest part of the country. Olive oil is another staple ingredient that you’ll see in almost every dish in the country.

Northern Portugal is famous for its caldo verde soup, which is a traditional soup made with potatoes, kale, and chorizo. If you head to the northeastern part of the country, you’ll find many dishes made with fresh pork.

Bacalhau, or salted cod, is a dish that has been a part of Portuguese cuisine since the 15th century. It’s typically served with potatoes and vegetables, and sometimes beans are added. If you’re looking for a snack, try pastéis de bacalhau, which are codfish croquettes.

Seafood is also a big part of Portuguese cuisine, with sardines, shrimp, octopus, and lobster being popular choices. As for meat options, chicken, beef, and turkey are also widely consumed throughout the country.

For those with a sweet tooth, you can’t miss out on trying pastel de nata, a Portuguese egg custard tart, rice pudding with cinnamon, and other custard treats.

Wine is a big deal in Portugal, and it’s consumed with almost every meal. Vinho Verde is a traditional wine made from grapes in Minho, and it’s a popular choice. Portugal is also famous for Vinho do Douro, Vinho do Dão, and Vinho do Porto. Beer and liquor are also popular drinks.

In conclusion, Portuguese cuisine is a blend of traditional dishes and contemporary flavors. There’s something for everyone, from seafood lovers to meat enthusiasts to those with a sweet tooth. So, grab a glass of wine, sit back, and enjoy the delicious flavors of Portugal.

Music and Dance

Portugal’s music is almost identified with fado music. Fado is a traditional musical expression dating back to the early 1800s. It’s also on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The word fado comes from the Latin word for fate or destiny. The lyrics and tunes of the music have mournful tones. Also, it’s associated with nostalgia, homesickness, and longing, which is known as “Saudade”. One can find varieties of this song form in Lisbon and Coimbra as well. In Lisbon, people applaud and clap after the performance. In the Coimbra style, people only clear their throats to show appreciation. 

Today, fado can be performed with a singer or an orchestra. During the 1900s, it was only a singer and two guitar players. 

Portugal has been influenced by the music of the colonies as well. Hip-hop, rap, jazz, pop, and rock have also developed in the country throughout the years. 

There are also some dances that are performed as traditional folk performances. Some of the traditional folk dances in Portugal are:

• Pauliteiros de Miranda, 
• Corridinho do Algarve, 
• The danças do vira,
• Fandango, 
• Circle dance, 
• Ciranda, 
• Vira de Cruz,
• Two-Steps Waltz,
• Schottische (Chotiça),
• Vira Solto,
• Vira de Macieira,
• Vareirinha,
• O Pedreiro, and 
• Malhão. 

The conventional instruments in Portugal are guitars, bagpipes, accordion mandolin, and violin. During these performances, some dance, and others sing traditional songs in squares.  

Art and Architecture

Portugal’s history and culture are so rich that one can find various art forms and architectural structures left from the past. You can find many museums in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Braga.

One of the most traditional art forms in Portugal is azulejos , the ceramic Portuguese tiles . These tiles are used in both the interior and facades of buildings like churches and private homes. It was the Moors that introduced this art form to Portugal. Some of them have patterns that describe important events in Portugal’s history. Geometric patterns are also widely used in azulejos .

Another outstanding architectural style in Portugal is the Manueline, named after King Manuel I. It mainly represents Portugal’s history of seafaring and the Age of Discoveries. You can see it through the elements of shells, ropes, and similar images. 

There’s also the Johannine Baroque style in Portugal’s architecture. Its roots date back to the reign of King John V. Back then, he hired foreign artists to create distinguished works of art. Nicolau Nasoni was one of these artists.

Some of the famous Portuguese architects are:

• Diogo de Arruda in the 15th and 16th centuries
• João Antunes in the 17th century
• Eugénio dos Santos in the 18th century
• Carlos Mardel in the 18th century
• José Luis Monteiro in the 19th century
• Raul Lino, 
• Fernando Távora, and
• Cassiano Branco in the 20th century
• Gonçalo Byrne
• Eduardo Souto de Moura (Pritzker winner)
• Álvaro Siza Vieira (Priktzer winner)
• António Maria Braga, and
• João Carrilho da Graça.

Painting is another important element of Portugal art. One can see that the country’s art expanded after the 15th century. Kings like John I had royal painters during this period. Artists in Portugal were both influenced by and influenced the Flemish art at that time. It was also the time when Portuguese art became famous worldwide. 

In the 19th century, realist and naturalist painters emerged and performed outstanding works of art. Some of these painters include Henrique Pousão, Columbano, and Silva Porto.

Portuguese art experienced a development in the 20th century, and the number of works of art increased. The Modernist movement had an impact on this development.

One of the important artists that shaped Portugal art is Nuno Gonçalves. He was an artist living during the reign of King Alfonso V. Gonçalves also brought local characteristics to Portuguese art as well. You can find some of his works in the Museum of Ancient Art in Portugal.

Other important Portuguese artists include:

• Grão Vasco (Vasco Fernandes) (1475-1542)
• Josefa de Óbidos (1630-1684)
• Domingos Sequeira (1768-1837)
• José Malhoa (1855-1933)
• Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro (1857-1929)
• Amadeo de Souza Cardoso (1887-1918)
• Carlos Botelho (1899-1982)
• Maria Helena Vieira da Silva (1908 – 1992)
• Nadir Afonso (1920 – 2013), and
• Paula Rego (1935-2022). 

Literature is another important element of arts in Portugal. From the 12th century on, Portugal literature started to take shape. The impact of Portugal’s first king was a determining element in this. He brought literary gentlemen and French scholars to his court.

Saudade remained to be the permeating style in many works of literature as well. French poets influenced the early court writers in Portugal in many aspects as well. 

As was seen in other art forms, literature also began to flourish in Portugal in the 15th century. In the country, feelings of being a nation became stronger at that time. An important piece of literature shortly after that period is Os Lusíadas, which is a 1,102-stanza poem. It was written by Luís Vaz de Camões, and it’s accepted as an important piece of Portugal literature. The poem is about Vasco da Gama’s sea voyage to India in the 15th century. The 16th century was also an important period in terms of maritime developments in Portugal. During that period, lots of stories, adventures, and discoveries were recounted everywhere in the country. An important writer of that time is Gil Vicente who created the Portuguese theater. His works and plays are still admired today. 

Romanticism was introduced in Portugal in the 19th century. The period produced certain Portuguese romantics including Almeida Garrett (1799-1854), and Alexandre Herculano de Carvalho e Araújo (1810-77). Garrett wrote some epics, romances, and lyrical dramas. Araújo was a historian and he wrote novels too. Other important authors of that period include Antero de Quental, Camilo Pessanha, and Alexandre Herculano.

Looking at modern Portuguese literature, one can say that Fernando Pessoa has been an influential figure in that. He used several different styles and mixed them sometimes. Along with Camões, Pessoa is also considered one of the greatest poets of Portugal.

An important step for Portuguese literature was taken in 1998 when José Saramago won the Nobel Prize for literature. Other modernist authors include Miguel Torga, José Régio, and Mário de Sá-Carneiro among others.

As you can see, Portugal’s culture and traditions are rich and valued by the locals. Portuguese cultural relationships with other nations resulted in the enrichment of culture and artworks in Portugal.

How is the lifestyle in Portugal?

A typical Portuguese lifestyle includes meeting with friends and family at meals. Portuguese people also like to meet with their friends at cafes a lot. In general, life in Portugal is relaxed, and people take things slowly to enjoy the moment. Portuguese family culture includes having dinner together.

What are some facts about the culture in Portugal?

One of the cultural facts of Portugal is that it’s a Roman Catholic country. Portuguese beliefs and values are surrounded by religious values and the value of family.

What is Portuguese business culture like?

One can say that Portugal’s business culture depends on strong relationships. Creating networks and good relationships is important for Portuguese business people. 

What is a typical work culture in Portugal?

Some people may consider Portugal’s work culture too relaxed because of the lenient deadlines or some punctuality issues. Dress codes depend on the companies. Another common feature of Portuguese work culture is giving gifts, especially to customers. 

Do Portuguese people leave tips for waiters?

There’s no strict Portugal tipping culture but people leave tips, especially in luxury places or expensive restaurants. It’s usually around 5-10 percent of the bill. 

Is Portugal a Catholic country?

Portuguese beliefs have been influenced a lot by Catholicism in both political and social life. Most Portuguese people identify themselves as Roman Catholic today. 

What is the national dress in Portugal?

Portugal’s national dress includes bright colors. Women wear red bouffant skirts as traditional dress. Men wear sombreros, waistcoats, calcas, and short leggings. Depending on the region, the accessories may slightly differ. Today, you can see these costumes worn at carnivals and festivals. 

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Portugal: Hiking, Kayaking, & Culture

Destination: portugal, | activities: hiking, kayaking, culture.

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Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe, ancient in history and rich in maritime culture. We'll enjoy the view from the westernmost point of Europe, and soak in Portugal's diverse landscape by hiking along white sand beaches, through thick forests, and kayaking along the coast. We will explore fascinating historic sites including ancient castles, a lavish palace, two abandoned monasteries, and the sites of two sets of dinosaur tracks. We will immerse ourselves in this unique culture with walking tours in some of Lisbon's oldest and most interesting neighborhoods. Along the way we'll experience Portugal's cuisine and have the opportunity to indulge in some Portuguese wine. Maximum group size: 12 participants.

• Hiking through a myriad of cinematic landscapes, from white sand beaches and thick forests, to limestone cliffs and rocky outcrops
• Visiting historic castles, monasteries, and two sets of dinosaur tracks
• Kayaking in Maritime Reserve Luiz de Saldanha
• Exploring the culture of the nation's capital with a walking tour of some of Lisbon's oldest and most interesting neighborhoods
• Experiencing the unique maritime cuisine of Portugal

Departures and Prices

• A local guide and an AGC guide (If there are fewer than 8 on the trip, there will not be an AGC guide)
• 8 nights double occupancy lodging
• All meals from lunch on the first day through breakfast on the day of departure
• All transportation within Portugal
• All entrance fees and activities as described in the itinerary

Trip Documents

This trip is designed for women who enjoy hiking and want to explore Portugal on foot. Hiking is generally 3 - 6 hours with elevation changes on dirt trails, rocky paths, and occasionally uneven footing. A rating of 3 requires some aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for 30 - 45 minutes at least 3 - 4 times a week. The area of Portugal we will be exploring is hilly, we recommend that you include stairclimbing in your fitness routine. Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5.

This trip is designed as a hiking exploration of the natural beauty and diversity of Portugal's landscape, while immersing ourselves in its culture, cuisine, and historical relevance. We will be hiking 3-6 hours a day along the cliffs, beaches, and forests of eastern Portugal and a half day of kayaking along coastal cliffs.

All accommodations are quality inns or guest houses. The trip cost is based on double-occupancy. We will pair you with another traveler unless you specify a roommate or request a single supplement. There are a limited number of single supplements available at additional cost. Availability of each room type is noted on your registration form.

Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.

Meet at Hotel in Lisbon, Walking tour of Lisbon, Welcome Dinner

Transfer to sintra, walk to pena palace and castelo dos mouros, walk from praia das maçãs to cabo de roca, westernmost point of europe, hike in sintra's forest and natural park to convent of the capuchos, free time in the afternoon, transfer to arrabida nature park, hike along coast to cabo espichel, kayaking tour along coastline, walk to moorish castle of sesimbra, visit arrabida monastery, hike through arrabida natural park, visit belém, eat pastries, free time in lisbon in the afternoon, depart anytime this morning, *these are the unfiltered reviews of women who have been on this trip in answer to the question "what made this trip special for you". we take reviews very seriously and often tweak itineraries based on feedback. please feel free to contact us about any questions you have..

This was my first AGC trip and I was not disappointed. The food, accommodations, and activities exceeded my expectations. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and interacting with my fellow travelers and our American guide, Karen and our local guide, Annabelle. The fact we hiked through woods and along paths rarely seeing other people to then pop out of the trail to a crowded cultural site was special for me; what a great way to see the country of Portugal. Thank you, Karen, Annabelle and all the wonderful women in this travel group.

The guides were wonderful. Very friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They kept track of the heat and planned the next activity accordingly to ensure our safety.

Combo Portuguese and USA…each making different/special contribution. transfer all responsibility for necessary plan changes etc from me to them which made the experience problem free and chance to truly enjoy every minute

This adventure was so incredible! The walks and hikes were all so varied, occasionally challenging, always beautiful. The cultural excursions to castles, convents, and palaces were educational and enlightening, as well as beautiful. The food was amazing, especially the seafood and cheese! and the impromptu picnics along the trail were a delight. The accommodations were top notch, with the highlight being the small hotel in Sintra, with views of the Moorish Castle and wine on the lovely patio.

The challenge! Our hikes and kayaking pushed me. I am healthy and active but was amazed at how well I was able to navigate the terrain. I did not know that the Level of a trip was based more on length or distance than degree of difficulty. The scenery was breathtaking. The food Annabelle arranged was always fantastic. I have never eaten such fresh fish, the bread cheese and pastries she pulled out of her backpack each day was beyond wonderful

I loved the long, hilly hikes along the coast and in SIntra. It was a great workout. Really enjoyed the kayaking in Sesimbra. The accommodations were also great, especially the hotel in SIntra. I love fish so couldn't be in a better place for fresh fish.

Beautiful scenery, food and wine was wonderful, accommodations were great ( especially the hotel in Sintra)

Beyond my expectations. The guides were top notch and the participants were so fun. The places we visited were spectacular.

Loved learning about Portugal via the guides, tours and experiencing the country one on one by the hiking and kayaking trip.

Great group of people, great guides (Anne and Annabelle were awesome). Food was outstanding. Hiking and kayaking were exactly what I wanted - gave me a runner's high!

The people - everyone on this trip contributed to make it an amazing experience. The guides were amazing (I loved not having to think about where to go/what to eat) and the itinerary was exactly what I wanted - lots of activity and exposure to the local culture.

Reconnecting with people I had traveled with before with AGC. The kayak trip was fantastic. Wish it had been longer.

I loved the community in our group that was developed in a very Short time. The hiking was challenging yet doable. The scenery was spectacular. Our guides were very perceptive and alway went above and beyond to acomodate everyone's needs and wants.

Oh so many each day. Just loved our group, our guides, the variety of locations, staying in a hotel for three nights at a time.

So much to see and do. Everything was already planned out and taken care of. All I had to do was show up! Amazing, considerate guides who cared for us all.

The organization and flexibility provided by the guides, the hotels and food arranged ahead of our arrival, the beauty and the history of country all provided for a superb trip. Everything was perfect!

Loved the crazy kayaking. The hikes were beautiful. The company was wonderful.

Once again it was a great trip but even better were the group of women that were on the trip. Didn't get to try the paddle board but things were rearranged and all went smooth. Kudos to Annabell and Debra for all the work they did behind the scenes.

Loved the Pena Palace and beautiful grounds around it. Any time we got a spectacular water view was always appreciated. Would have liked to spend more time at the first Franciscan convent. Most of us didn't know the guide was going to give such a detailed explanation of everything and we missed the beginning of his talk. The view from the monastery that day was beautiful but it was disappointing we couldn't go in. We could have skipped the forest hike portion of that day but I wouldn't have wanted to miss the rock section where we had lunch. If you cut out part of that hike it could be replaced by a tour of the estate Anne Marie went to.

I really didn't know too much about Portugal before the trip, and I ended up falling in love with it! The guides were wonderful, as were all the other women.

Cabo de Roca hike The hike on the last day in Sessimbra

I'm not sure I had specific expectations for this trip, except to read and look at photos of the Portugal trip immediately before ours. One minor disappointment was the weather, which made the kayaking less attractive for me (would have liked it but not really comfortable on rougher water in a small craft!) and that was completely beyond human control.) The previous week the weather had been perfect. However, we had a great group of women, yet again, great guides, beautiful coastal hiking--all in all, great experience. A highlight for me was the last night's dining and Fado music at the small neighborhood restaurant where our waiter was one of the excellent performers! This experience was so much more meaningful and enjoyable than a more "commercial" production done for tourists. Just loved that evening.

I enjoyed everything about the trip. The hikes, the women, the food. Debra and Annabelle were both great guides too.

Loved the high cliff, coastal hiking around Sesimbra. A nice variety of trails and challenges. I always love to see ancient architecture and we had many opportunities to see old monestaries and convents.

I try not to have expectations when I go on these trips. That way I am never disappointed. It's all pure experience!!!!!

When one leaves the detailed trip planning to others (an attraction to this type of trip for me), it is always a plus to see the unexpected. For me the dinosaur tracks were not even a draw to me initially as I envisioned tiny, cryptic patterns on a flat surface. To see the large, very prominent tracks actually sent shivers through me. The scenic hikes were better than I had anticipated as well.

The international mix of the participants was great. The highlights of the trip for me besides the awesome hiking was the private tour of Franciscan Monastery and the town of Sentra.

Issues with guides and some restaurants. The guides were both lovely, not that. Just that neither was particularly effective. A couple of restaurants were not all ready for groups and the second last (in Sesimbra) was definitely not welcoming and should not be reused.

Amazing hiking, views, kayaking and overall trip. Oh!! and the food!!! The only not perfect part was it being a "first time - work out the wrinkles" trip.

Excellent guides and food. The group was very pleasant overall, cared for each other and looked out for one another. The country was beautiful and we couldn't have asked for better weather. I definitely enjoyed hiking along the coast the most. The Portuguese guide added a good variety to the trip, like taking a tram ride, a variety of castles and convents, little things that made the trip unique. The morning of kayaking seemed disorganized. We seemed to waste a large portion of time waiting at the port for the guides to prep the kayaks, which was a little frustrating and disappointing, because I feel like we could have used that time to kayak longer. Instead of her picking us up that morning, she maybe could have sent a transport for us, so she had the time to prep and have everything ready when we got there. I know this was the first trip so the kinks still need working out, but that was probably the biggest issues I saw. There was a night that our dinner restaurant could take us so

Lived the scenery and hikes - but itinerary did not match daily miles (way off), frequent steps (would change training routine) or daily elevation gain

I loved seeing the variety of terrain and landscape, walking the cobble stone streets and learning more about Portugal. I also liked the fact that most of the restaurants had a truly local flare. I would have appreciated more culture/history/information from our local guide.

Highlights: hikes on the coastal paths; kayaking; great pastries!; excellent guides; mostly good food; small hotels

• Where do we eat? Your breakfasts will be buffets at the hotels where you are staying. Dinners are in restaurants with typically a choice of a first course and a fish or meat entree. Lunches may either be picnics or in restaurants. Portuguese cuisine focuses on fresh fish and seafood, cheeses, wonderful breads, and salads. There are limited options for people who do not eat fish or seafood and/or are gluten-free
• What dietary preferences or restrictions can you accommodate on this trip? Vegetarian options for this trip are available but will be more limited than you are accustomed too. If you are concerned about having enough protein during your trip, plan to bring some plant-based protein sources such as nut butter, instant dried hummus, or high-protein energy bars. Portuguese cuisine focuses on fresh fish and seafood, cheeses, wonderful breads, and salads. There are limited options for people who do not eat fish or seafood and/or are gluten-free.
• I will be coming by myself. Do I need to pay a single supplement? You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.

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Complete Portugal by Train

• Fully Guided
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Places You’ll See

• Sip on sweet Port wine in the old cellars of Porto
• Marvel at the majesty of the Douro Valley on a picturesque boat ride
• Fall in love with the Art Nouveau houses and canal boats of Aveiro
• Embark on some of the most scenic train rides in all of Europe
• Gorge on pastel de nata in Lisbon
• Explore the Unesco-listed fairytale town of Sintra
• Introduction
• Day 1 Olá Portugal!
• Day 2 Marvel at the picture-perfect streets of Porto and sample sweet Port wine
• Day 3 A scenic day trip to the Douro Valley
• Day 4 Discover the charming streets and sweet treats of Portugal’s Venice
• Day 5 Bask in the beauty of rural Portugal on the train to Lisbon
• Day 6 Famous sights and local delicacies in Lisbon
• Day 7 Fall in love with the fairytale town of Sintra
• Day 8 Tchau for now!

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What's Included

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Adventure Type

• Group of 16 travelers max.
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• Carefully planned itineraries
• Travel with like-minded people
• Choose your preferred dates and duration
• Upgrade your accommodation
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Operated by Culture Trip

Culture Trip offers unique small-group adventures for travellers who want to experience extraordinary places. Curated by travel experts and led by Local Insiders, the multi-day itineraries combine authentic activities and immersive experiences with unique places to stay. Join a small group of culturally curious travellers to connect with a place, its people and culture like never before.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Good 4.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 5.0
• Accommodation Excellent 5.0
• Food Excellent 5.0
• Tour Operator Culture Trip 4.7

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Good to Know

• Currency € Euro Portugal

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Portugal. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 22nd June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 22nd June 2024, a minimum payment of €100 is required to confirm your booking with Culture Trip. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 55 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Culture Trip will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
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• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
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I moved from Florida to southern Portugal. The weather is better, and the culture is amazing.

• Andrew Ibrahim moved from Florida to Portugal for a better life for himself and his family.
• The cost of living wasn't adding up for Ibrahim, so he got more bang for his buck in Portugal.
• The inviting culture and beautiful weather are reasons why he's enjoying his decision so far.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Andrew Ibrahim, 31, who moved from Gainesville, Florida, to the most southern region of Portugal, the Algarve, in November 2023. Ibrahim still owns a business consultancy firm for property owners in Florida and also sells luxury real estate in Portugal . The conversation was edited for length and clarity.

Moving to Portugal was a decision that was basically like an early midlife crisis.

At the time, I was 30, and I said, "Thankfully, I've accomplished what I've wanted to do before I was 30, but I'm not necessarily happy day-to-day with the direction that I see that the country's going."

I wanted to be able to find a place where it would be perfect for me to raise my children — and that decision came fairly easy.

I was tired of the personalities in Florida. There are a lot of social issues that I'm not in line with, and the cost of living has just skyrocketed.

And over time, and I'd say after the pandemic, it just became worse.

When I rented in South Florida, I rented a one-bedroom apartment that cost me about $2,600 a month. When I moved to Gainesville, I was able to purchase a four-bedroom property of my own, and mortgage, insurance, and taxes cost close to $3,000 a month — which was a little bit expensive for a normal middle class.

Then I moved to a much bigger, 5,900-square-foot, five-bedroom house. It was on 1.2 acres of land, which was very nice, but that was costing me close to $4,500 a month.

Thankfully, I lived a very good life, but I could have lived a 10 times better life for 50% of the cost of living in Portugal.

I can have a similar quality of life to Florida for a fraction of the price

Originally, I was born and raised in Montreal, and I moved to Florida when I was 17 years old, but I have Portuguese citizenship through my mother, who is Portuguese. So, it was fairly easy for me to get paperwork to be able to move and become a citizen.

Portugal checks the box for safety, for the potential of new businesses, and it also checks the box for me being able to provide the best future for my children and, in turn, myself.

My family has had real estate here for a few years — and it's fully paid off — so it was a little bit easy for us, but we've looked at purchasing a property for ourselves.

For groceries, if I'm spending 200 euros (or about $213) here, I'm able to eat for close to two weeks. But if I were to spend $200 or $250 in Florida for groceries, I'd be eating for a week at best.

If I want to go to a very nice restaurant in Portugal with top quality steaks or top quality meat or fish for my wife and me, I'm spending maybe $70 with a glass of wine.

In the United States, that's not really possible.

The food options in Portugal are not as abundant as in the US. In South Florida, you have so many different options for different cultures of food. Here, you do have options, but it's not like having a Southern restaurant on every corner. Or if you want to go and eat Peruvian food or ceviche, you're going to get something similar to it, but it's not going to be as authentic as if you were in South Florida.

Public education here is free. My daughter, luckily, doesn't have to pack her own lunch — the school provides lunch. That's a cost savings for us over time.

Health insurance is also very, very economical here. We pay about 50 euros a month; in the United States, I was paying close to $300 a month and not really getting the best healthcare that I thought the United States touts. In Portugal, the doctors are incredible. It's cheap and it's top quality service.

I'm enjoying the culture and values in Southern Portugal

The south of Portugal is, I'd say, 350 days a year of sunshine. That was a big factor because it's absolutely beautiful here. Christmas feels a little bit different because there's no snow around — and maybe I miss a little bit of hockey — but other than that, I don't miss the freezing rain, and I also don't miss having to shovel my driveway every day.

Also, it's one of the golfing capitals of Europe, so just from a demographic standpoint, there are a lot of good people that live here, and it has an incredible culture.

Southern Portugal is kind of like island living because you have so many beaches around you, so it's very similar to living in South Florida. However, there's a completely different culture that's been preserved over so many years.

The Portuguese culture is just incredible, and you're by beautiful beaches, beautiful real estate, beautiful golf courses, and it's not densely populated. It's different than living in a big city because it's quiet.

There's also the family aspect. When you go out to a park, you see families playing together. When you go to a restaurant, you see families eating together. You go to church on Sunday, and families are all together. That's something that I think has been lost over time from my experience living in Florida.

The Algarve has always been very popular amongst tourists. They've been, for many years now, really accustomed to foreigners and tourists coming to visit and purchasing property. A lot of people come from other European countries to retire here.

Generally, I'd say the Algarve is more of a melting pot of cultures. It preserves the Portuguese culture but is much more welcoming to foreign culture than the north or Lisbon.

I see a lot of Americans visiting. If you're going to a golf course in the Algarve, I'd say 90% of the people are American. You have a lot of English as well, so it's a nice mix here, but it's growing.

As much as people have said the area cooling down, I don't see it cooling down.

And based on what's happening with elections coming up in the States next year, we are seeing in the last few months that people are calling and making decisions to move. I think it is starting to pick up again.

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Move over Hawaii, The Azores Islands also bring vibrant beauty (with fewer crowds)

Destinations can be too crowded. Discover the antidote to overcrowded and overpriced vacation spots in " Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations " by National Geographic. The guide unveils imaginative and budget-friendly locales sure to inspire your next adventure, curated by longtime travel writer Andrew Nelson .

If you're looking for warmth, culture and beauty, try The Azores in Portugal instead of Hawaii.

What’s the perfect island chain? The default has always been Hawaii: Its eight principal islands rising from the Pacific’s deep are verdant and vibrant. But if you switch your gaze to the Atlantic, you will find a nine-island archipelago that’s equally lush, with flowering landscapes, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and marine wildlife refuges swarming with animals. Like the Aloha State, the Portuguese Azores are islands where the locals both nurture and protect their unique culture, determined to keep the natural beauty safe from overdevelopment.

And there’s a lot in the Azores worth protecting. The islands are located in the North Atlantic, 2,390 miles (3,850 km) east of Boston and 870 miles (1,400 km) west of Lisbon. Colonized by Portugal in the early 15th century (the Vikings were rumored to have stopped by, too), today the Azores are an autonomous territory with a population of 242,796 (about two-thirds that of Honolulu). Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream and the archipelago’s latitude, the temperature is usually mild throughout the year, ranging in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (midteens to 20s Celsius), though it does rain. The islands’ many volcanoes are active, but so far fairly quiet this century. The last big eruption occurred in 1958.

Like in Hawaii, each of the islands of the Azores offers a distinct experience.

◾ The eastern part of the chain is home to Santa Maria, with its numerous vineyards and white-sand beaches. São Miguel is equivalent to the Big Island. Like the island of Hawaii, it exerts a strong influence over the rest of the archipelago and is a dynamic and geologically active place. Its landscape features geysers, volcanic lakes and thermal hot springs.

◾ The central Azores consist of the islands of Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa. Terceira is home to the oldest city in the Azores, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its fertile soil supports numerous vineyards. On Faial, visitors can hike to the extinct Capelinhos volcano. São Jorge is celebrated for its cheese. Rugged, rough-hewn Pico Island is home to the highest mountain in Portugal, 7,713-foot-tall (2,351 m) Mount Pico. Graciosa is known for its iconic star-shaped pastries and red-peaked, Flemish-style windmills, brought by immigrants from Belgium.

◾ The western islands are Flores and Corvo. The former, known as the Island of Flowers, offers a rugged coastline, high cliffs marked by waterfalls (Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro (Alagoinha) being the most famous to see), and seven crater lakes. Flores’s dramatic, verdant landscape and the surrounding turquoise waters often spark comparisons to Kauai.

As more travelers discover the Azores’ allure, the future looks both bright and worrying. Luckily the islands have begun the task to ensure their biodiversity will be safeguarded for the future. In 2019 the Azores became the world’s first archipelago to be named a sustainable tourism destination by EarthCheck, an Australia-based international advisory board. Four of the islands – Flores, Corvo, Gracioso, and São Jorge – are UNESCO biosphere reserves, and the government has established several marine reserves to protect seabirds, fish, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins. The fight to protect paradise is only just getting started.

The Amazing Flora of the Azores

Indigenous or imported, the flowering plants of the Azores play an important role in giving the islands their iconic Instagrammable look. Being one of the world’s most isolated archipelagos, the Azores harbor many unique species, including one of the world’s rarest flowers, Myosotis azorica. Called não-meesqueças , or forget-me-nots, the purple flowers were considered extinct before a cluster of plants was discovered growing on Corvo, the Azores’ smallest island, in 2014. Despite Corvo being a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve, these tiny flowers remain endangered thanks to the appetites of the island’s insatiable goats and sheep.

 In contrast, colorful hydrangeas are not native to the island chain. They are an invasive species believed to have been brought to the island by the Japanese in the late 19th century as decorative plants. Though they’re imported, the flowers have become a symbol of the Azores and grow throughout the archipelago. Faial Island is often called the Blue Island for the azure hydrangeas that blanket its fields and roadsides. Their hue is due to the island’s acidic soil, which deepens the hydrangeas’ rich color. Volcanic eruptions in 1957 and 1958 only added to the fertility. It was Azorean immigrants to the United States who are credited with popularizing the flower in America, especially in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where many of these immigrants settled in the mid-20th century.

This is an excerpt from “ Here Not There: 100 Unexpected Travel Destinations ,”   published on April 2 by Disney Publishing Group. Author Andrew Nelson is an award-winning writer and editor for National Geographic Traveler, who has roamed all 50 states as well as numerous countries for the magazine and website, based in Washington, D.C.

8 Best Places To Travel In May 2024

Wondering where to travel in May? These top destinations in May are amazing during this month, from The Bahamas to the UK and beyond.

• Explore Munich in vibrant May weather, which is not crowded like during the Oktoberfest season. Enjoy beer culture in peaceful beer gardens.
• Brighton in the UK offers amazing weather in May, perfect for festivals and beach exploration without the summer crowds.
• Enjoy comfort in the Algarve's pleasant May weather and explore beautiful beaches without peak season crowds.

The transition between seasons is always exciting, and May, which is right between winter and summer, might just be the perfect time to explore many of the world's most beautiful places.

Temperatures are beginning to get better, and summer crowds haven't checked in yet, which means travelers can enjoy the scenery, the cultural attractions, and the art, without rubbing shoulders with every other tourist.

From some of the beautiful cities in Italy to add to your bucket list to a handful of the most beautiful destinations in the US , plenty of places guarantee unforgettable adventures in May. Here are eight of the best places to travel to in May 2024.

7 International Vacations That Take No Planning At All

8 munich, germany, springfest, beer culture, quiet streets, and comfortable weather.

Munich, which is officially the most walkable city in the world , is one of the most vibrant cities in Germany. The city of Munich offers lots to do and see and is among the world's best May destinations, thanks to its incredible beer culture, which tourists can enjoy exploring at this time of the year. Beer has always been an integral part of the city's lifestyle, and nothing could beat gathering in one of its incredible beer gardens .

May is also when the SpringFest happens, which may scare away some tourists because the city's world-famous Oktoberfest gets so crowded. However, SpringFest doesn't get that crowded, and vacationers will definitely have fun.

Generally, the weather in May is very comfortable in Munich and the streets are also quieter and calmer than in the summer months.

7 Brighton, UK

Amazing weather, great beaches, and fun festivals.

An incredible blend of historical architecture, modern amenities, sandy beaches, and breathtaking countryside makes Brighton an ideal destination not to miss on the bucket list. May is when the weather starts to become much more comfortable to explore beautiful attractions, such as the Palace Pier and the Lanes .

The Great Escape Music Festival , which allows the public to appreciate more than 500 up-and-coming artists from different parts of the world, happens in May. Moreover, tourists can also attend the Brighton Fringe , England's biggest art festival, which comes with over 500 fun events to watch in the city's theaters, pubs, and unique spots, running between May 3 and June 2.

6 The Bahamas

Beautiful weather, fewer crowds, amazing beaches.

There are plenty of experiences in this part of the world, from the best cruises in the Bahamas to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

Winter (between late November and April) is when the island nation is busiest. However, visitors can avoid crowds by choosing to visit in May, which is also when temperatures are most comfortable.

Cable Beach, Gold Rock Beach, Half Moon, and Pink Sands Beach are some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Bahamas to enjoy at this time of the year.

5 Algarve, Portugal

Comfortable weather and beautiful beaches that you can explore without crowds.

Whether spending a perfect day in Portugal's Algarve or visiting the city for the weekend, this European destination is beautiful and full of fun adventures for any type of vacationer.

May not only brings comfortable temperatures for enjoying the great outdoors but also comes with fewer crowds without rubbing shoulders like in the peak season (June through September).

One of the best things to do in the Algarve is to explore its beautiful beaches, and there is no better time than May. Spend time in Praia de Marinha , which is one of the most pristine beaches in Europe, and Praia de Camilo , another spectacular stretch of sand.

When exploring Praia de Marinha , spare some time for Benagil Cave, a famous sea cave located only 10 minutes away.

8 International Vacations For Less Than $1,000 A Week

4 catalonia, spain, splendid weather, fewer crowds, and amazing events.

From visiting the National Museum of Art to seeing the Sagrada di Familia's Construction, there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona , which is great to explore in May, but there is more to Catalonia than its vibrant capital. Girona, which is known for being featured in the world-famous Game of Thrones , as well as Costa Brava and Tarragona are equally stunning.

Visiting Catalonia in May offers a lot of advantages, including splendid weather and fewer crowds. Furthermore, there are plenty of fun events to attend at that time of the year.

Try some of the tastiest vermouths at the Vermut & Soul Festival , which happens between May 3 and 5. The event features delicious food, drinks, music, and fun activities. One can also attend the Gargar Festival , which gives visitors a chance to marvel at the breathtaking street art in Penelles.

8 Trending Bucket List Destinations (& Cheaper Alternatives)

3 the grand canyon, usa, the temperatures are cool, crowds are thinner, and the travel cost is lower.

The Grand Canyon , one of the most beautiful national parks in the US , is famous for its unique geological features, rugged landscape, and incredible wildlife, which attract over 4 million travelers every year . Arizona's crown jewel is among the best places to travel in May 2024.

The summer heat can be unbearable, which is why exploring just before the summer season is a great way of making the most of one's trip to the canyon. The crowds are also thinnest at this time of the year, which gives tourists a chance to enjoy the trails and the scenic overlooks without many people hoping to enjoy the same adventures.

Surprisingly, the Grand Canyon is one of the US destinations to plan a vacation for less than $1,000 , and one can spend $1,174 for one week on average and as low as $509 on a budget .

The Grand Canyon is stunning, but Bryce Canyon , which is underrated, makes a perfect alternative national park getaway in May. The snow is almost all gone and the temperatures, in the 60s during the day, are perfect for enjoying the beautiful trails.

2 Paris, France

Mild weather, spring blossoms, fewer crowds.

The City of Love is famous for many things, including the Seine, which is among the most scenic rivers in Europe , the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre . Paris offers some of the most fun experiences in May, thanks to the mild weather, which makes it comfortable to explore the city's popular attractions as well as hidden gems.

The crowds are also thinner, and tourists will mostly experience quieter streets than in the peak summer season. This is also the time to see the cherry blossoms, and Jardin des Plantes in the city's 5th Arrondissement is the perfect spot for this adventure.

A trip to the French capital can't be complete without experiencing some of the best dinner cruises in Paris . Also, try some of the most unforgettable dining adventures in Paris .

10 Things To Buy In Paris If You're Visiting For The First Time

1 florence, italy, pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lots of things to do.

Florence, one of the best destinations in Europe for romantic city breaks , is among the best places to travel to in May, thanks to pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of things to do.

This is the time the blooming flowers transform Boboli Gardens into a scenic fairytale; it's a feast for the eyes. Another must-have experience is strolling under the wisteria archway in Bardini Gardens .