Portugal

Portugal: general info for travelers

Portugal is a beautiful country located in southwestern Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula. It is bordered by Spain to the north and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. Portugal is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, including beaches, cliffs, and dramatic rock formations. It is also known for its vibrant culture and rich history, with many castles, museums, and ancient monuments to explore. The capital city of Lisbon is a popular destination, with its charming neighborhoods, colorful buildings, and bustling markets. Other popular attractions in Portugal include the Douro Valley wine region, the medieval town of Obidos, and the sunny beaches of the Algarve. Overall, Portugal is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers to foodies.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Portugal, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Portugal: places to visit

Sure, here are some main places to visit in Portugal and their descriptions: 1. Lisbon: The capital of Portugal is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Some of the must-visit attractions in Lisbon include the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, São Jorge Castle, Alfama (the oldest district in Lisbon), and the iconic Tram 28.
2. Porto: Located in the north of Portugal, Porto is known for its stunning riverside location, elegant bridges, and famous port wine. The historic center of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow cobbled streets, beautiful churches, and the Ribeira district.
3. Sintra: Just outside Lisbon, Sintra is a magical town with gorgeous palaces, castles, and gardens. Some of the must-visit places in Sintra include the colorful Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and the Quinta da Regaleira estate.
4. Algarve: The Algarve is a popular tourist destination in the south of Portugal with stunning beaches, breathtaking cliffs, and picturesque towns. Some of the top places to visit in the Algarve include Lagos, Albufeira, Faro, and Vilamoura.
5. Coimbra: Located in central Portugal, Coimbra is home to one of Europe's oldest universities and has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The ancient cobbled streets of Coimbra's old town are a delight to explore, along with the magnificent University Library, Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), and the Monastery of Santa-Clara-a-Velha.
6. Madeira Island: Known as "the Pearl of the Atlantic," Madeira Island is a beautiful island located off the coast of Portugal. Madeira is a paradise for hikers, with trails crisscrossing through the lush green landscapes. Visitors can also explore the island's charming towns, stunning beaches, and famous gardens.
There is more to see and do in Portugal: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Portugal: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Portugal, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, from June to September, the temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) or more, especially in the Algarve region. The spring season, from March to May, is also a great time to visit Portugal as the temperatures start to warm up and the countryside is in full bloom. The fall season, from October to November, is usually mild and pleasant, but it can be rainy. The winter months, from December to February, are the coldest and wettest months, but the temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F).
Overall, the best months to visit Portugal would be from April to June or from September to October, when the temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. However, it also depends on the type of holiday you are looking for and the activities you want to do. If you plan to relax on the beach and enjoy the sun, then the summer months would be ideal. If you prefer to explore the cities, go hiking or visit cultural sites, then the shoulder seasons might be a better option.

Portugal: activities and what to do

Portugal offers a wide range of activities and sports for travelers to enjoy: 1. Surfing - Portugal's coastline is considered one of the best places in Europe for surfing.
2. Golf - There are more than 70 golf courses in Portugal boasting some of the best golf courses in the world.
3. Hiking - Portugal has a diverse landscape that is perfect for hiking, with the most famous trails being the Rota Vicentina and the Camino de Santiago.
4. Cycling - Portugal has a great cycling culture and many scenic routes that make cycling an exciting activity.
5. Water sports - Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.
6. Wine tasting - Portugal is famous for its wine production, and visitors can take part in wine tastings and vineyard tours.
7. Cultural tours - Portugal has a rich history and culture, with many historic attractions and museums to explore.
8. Food tours - Portugal is also famous for its cuisine, and food tours are a great way to experience traditional dishes and local produce.
9. Sailing - Portugal's coastline is perfect for sailing, with many marinas and sailing schools to choose from.
Overall, Portugal has something for every type of traveler, whether you're seeking adventure or culture.

Portugal: few words on history and culture

Portugal is a country with a rich history and culture that dates back to prehistoric times. It was once a powerful maritime empire during the 15th and 16th centuries, with notable explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan leading expeditions to discover new lands and establish trading colonies.
The country underwent significant changes in the 20th century, including a transition to democracy in 1974 and the joining of the European Union in 1986. Today, Portugal is known for its vibrant music and dance traditions, such as fado and samba, as well as its delicious cuisine and wine.
The country's architecture is also notable, with a mixture of styles ranging from medieval castles to Baroque churches and Art Nouveau buildings. The Portuguese are proud of their heritage and cultural traditions, which can be seen in colorful festivals and celebrations throughout the year.

Portugal: how to move around on holiday

Portugal can be easily accessed by air, land, and sea. The most common means of transportation to reach Portugal are: 1. By Air: Portugal has three international airports; Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. These airports serve many national and international airlines, making it easy for visitors to access Portugal from anywhere in the world.
2. By Land: If you're traveling from Spain, you can take a bus, train, or rent a car to reach Portugal. There are also a few international bus routes from other European cities to Portugal.
3. By Sea: Portugal is a popular cruise destination. Many European cruises have stops in Portugal, especially at Lisbon and Madeira.
Once you are in Portugal, the best way to travel around the country is by rental car, public transport, coach tours, or private tours. The country has a well-developed public transport network, which includes buses, metro, and trains, that provide affordable and efficient travel options for visitors. To hire a car to visit Portugal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Portugal: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Portugal with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Portugal and a brief description of each: 1. Bacalhau - This is probably the most famous Portuguese dish and it is made with salted cod. It is usually served with potatoes and other vegetables.
2. Caldo Verde - This is a traditional soup made with kale, potatoes, onions, garlic, and chorizo. It is perfect for colder days.
3. Francesinha - This is a sandwich made with different types of cured meats and covered with melted cheese. It is usually served with french fries and egg.
4. Arroz de Marisco - This dish is similar to paella but made with seafood. It is a delicious combination of rice, clams, prawns, mussels, and various other seafood.
5. Sardinhas Assadas - This is a simple but tasty dish made with grilled sardines. It is usually served with boiled potatoes and a salad.
6. Pasteis de Nata - These are small custard tarts that are a staple of Portuguese cuisine. They are usually eaten for breakfast or as a dessert.
7. Cozido à Portuguesa - This is a stew made with different types of meats, vegetables, and beans. It is a hearty dish that is perfect for a winter day.
8. Alheira - This is a type of sausage usually made with chicken, bread, and garlic. It is a popular dish in Northern Portugal.
9. Bifanas - These are pork sandwiches typically served with mustard and hot sauce. They are a popular street food.
10. Chouriço Assado - This is a type of cured sausage that is grilled or roasted. It is usually served with bread and olives as an appetizer.

Portugal: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to many other European countries, Portugal is relatively affordable for tourists. However, prices can vary depending on the region and the season. The major cities like Lisbon and Porto tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and villages. During peak tourist season (June to August), prices for accommodations and activities may also increase. However, there are many ways to keep costs down, such as staying in a hostel or guesthouse, eating at local restaurants, and taking advantage of free activities like walking tours and museum visits.

Portugal: where to find accodation

There are many options for accommodations in Portugal. Some popular websites to search for accommodations include: 1) Booking.com 2) Airbnb.com 3) Expedia.com 4) Hotels.com 5) Agoda.com These websites offer a wide range of accommodations including budget hostels, hotels, and luxury resorts. In addition, you can also check the website of the hotel or hostel you are interested in directly to get the best deals and promotions. It is also worth considering the location and neighbourhood of your accommodation to find the best fit for your needs.
You can check hotel prices in Portugal here:
Booking.com

Portugal: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Portugal received about 12.76 million international tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this number has decreased significantly in 2020.
Regarding crowded periods, Portugal tends to be most crowded during the peak tourist season, which is from June to September. During this time, major cities like Lisbon, Porto and Algarve beaches can be very busy and congested. However, some areas are less crowded during this period, such as the North of Portugal or some less known coastal towns. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, you might want to consider visiting Portugal during the quieter months, from October to May.
Portugal is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. It is also important to note that some areas, particularly in larger cities like Lisbon and Porto, can have higher crime rates than others.
That being said, there are no specific places that tourists should avoid in Portugal. The country is generally safe for visitors to explore and enjoy. As with any travel destination, it is a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables out of sight, and take extra care at night or in less crowded areas.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Portugal on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Portugal: events for tourists

There are many interesting events in Portugal that attract tourists throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular: 1. Carnaval (Carnival) - Celebrated in February, this festive event is marked by colorful parades, music, and dancing.
2. Festa de São João (Feast of St. John) - Held on June 23, this festival celebrates the summer solstice with food, drink, music, and fireworks.
3. Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of Trays) - This is a centuries-old tradition held every four years in Tomar, where people carry large trays decorated with flowers on their heads.
4. Festa de Santo António (Feast of St. Anthony) - This festival is celebrated on June 13 in Lisbon with parades, music, dancing, and traditional food.
5. Algarve Nature Week - This event is held in the Algarve region in April and celebrates the natural beauty of the area with hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
6. Festival Internacional de Teatro de Almada (International Theatre Festival of Almada) - This festival in July features performances by theater companies from around the world.
7. Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival) - This is a wine festival held in September in the Douro Valley, where visitors can sample local wines and enjoy traditional music and food.

Portugal: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Portugal, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here’s a sample two week itinerary for Portugal: Day 1-3: Lisbon - Explore the vibrant city of Lisbon. Visit the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and St. George’s Castle.
Day 4-5: Sintra - Take a day trip to Sintra and see the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira and the Park and National Palace of Pena.
Day 6-7: Cascais - Visit Cascais and relax at the beach. Explore the town of Sintra and visit the Lighthouse of Santa Marta.
Day 8-10: Porto - Head north to Porto and enjoy the charming city. Visit the Porto Cathedral, the Ribeira district and the historic city center.
Day 11-12: Coimbra - Visit Coimbra and explore the university, the old town and the Monastery Santa Clara à Velha.
Day 13-14: Algarve - Go to the southern region of Portugal, the Algarve. Visit the beach and enjoy the stunning coastline. Explore the historic town of Faro.
This itinerary is only a suggestion and can be adapted according to your personal preferences and interests.

Portugal: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Portugal described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Albufeira is a popular tourist destination located in the southern region of Portugal, specifically in the Algarve region. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque old... CONTINUE here for a trip to Albufeira
- Alcácer do Sal is a historic town located in the Setúbal district of Portugal, approximately 90 km south of Lisbon. The town is situated on the banks of the Sado River, and it has a long and rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alcácer do Sal
- Algarve is a region located in the southernmost part of Portugal. It has a coastline that stretches for approximately 200 km along the Atlantic Ocean. The region is known for its stunning cliffs, beac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Algarve
- Arcos de Valdevez is a municipality (concelho in Portuguese) located in the north of Portugal, in the district of Viana do Castelo. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, as it is situated withi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arcos de Valdevez
- Arouca is a small town located in the north of Portugal, in the district of Aveiro. It is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, which makes it a popular destination for nature lovers. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arouca
- Aveiro is a charming city located in the center of Portugal, known as the "Venice of Portugal" because of its canals and colorful boats called "moliceiros". The city is famous for its beautiful Art No... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aveiro
- Braga is a city in the northwest region of Portugal and is the third largest city in the country. It has a rich history and a vibrant culture, with many museums, churches and parks to explore. Braga i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Braga
- Bragança is a city and municipality in northeastern Portugal, located in the Bragança district. It is about 20 kilometers from the border with Spain and has a population of around 35,000 people. Braga... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bragança
- Caldas da Rainha is a historic spa city located in the Centro Region of Portugal. It is known for its natural hot springs, beautiful parks, and artistic and cultural heritage. The city was founded in ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caldas da Rainha
- Cascais is a coastal town and popular tourist destination located about 30 minutes west of Lisbon, Portugal. It is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque streets, and rich history. In the past, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cascais
- Castelo Branco is a city located in the central region of Portugal, specifically in the district of the same name. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks, such as the impr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Castelo Branco
- Chaves is a Portuguese city located in the north of Portugal in the district of Vila Real. The city is known for its thermal springs and is a popular destination for people seeking relaxation and well... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chaves
- Coimbra is a city in central Portugal, located about 200 kilometers north of Lisbon and 120 kilometers south of Porto. It is the third-largest city in the country and is known for its ancient universi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Coimbra
- Elvas is a historic city located in the Portalegre District of Portugal, near the border with Spain. It is known for its well-preserved fortifications, which were built during the 17th century and are... CONTINUE here for a trip to Elvas
- Ericeira is a charming fishing village located on the west coast of Portugal, about 35 kilometers north of Lisbon. It has become a popular destination for surfers due to its fantastic waves, but it is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ericeira
- Estoril is a coastal town located in the municipality of Cascais, in the Lisbon metropolitan area, in Portugal. It is located about 25 km west of Lisbon and is known for its beautiful beaches, casino,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Estoril
- Faro is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern part of Portugal's Algarve region. It is known for its charming historic center, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Faro is also home to ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Faro
- Figueira da Foz is a coastal city in central Portugal, located approximately 200 kilometers north of Lisbon. It is known for its beautiful beaches, including Praia da Claridade, which is the main beac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Figueira da Foz
- Funchal is the capital city of the island of Madeira, which is an autonomous region of Portugal. It is situated in the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its natural beauty and subtropical climate, makin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Funchal
- Fátima is a small town located around 120 km north of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. It is famous for being a major site of Catholic pilgrimage, attracting millions of visitors every year. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fátima
- Guarda is a city and municipality in central Portugal, situated in the Serra da Estrela mountain range. It is the highest city in Portugal, at an altitude of 1,056 meters, and is known for its chilly ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guarda
- Guimarães is located in the north of Portugal and it's known as the "Birthplace of Portugal" because it was where the country's first king, Afonso Henriques, was born. The historic center of Gui... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guimarães
- Lagos is a popular coastal town in the southern region of Portugal, known for its beautiful beaches, history, and vibrant nightlife. It's located in the Algarve region, and boasts a warm, sunny climat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lagos
- Leiria is a charming city located in central Portugal, near the Atlantic coast. It has a population of around 130,000 people and a rich history dating back to medieval times. The city is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Leiria
- Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, located on the Atlantic coast in the western part of the country. It is a historic and cultural city with a rich history that dates back to the Roma... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lisbon
- Madeira is a popular Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Portugal. It's known for its stunning natural beauty, lush green landscape, and mild year-round climate. Madeira... CONTINUE here for a trip to Madeira
- Mafra is a small town located in the Lisbon district of Portugal. It is famous for the Mafra National Palace, which is a baroque-style palace built in the 18th century, and is now a UNESCO World Herit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mafra
- Monchique is a town located in the Algarve region of Portugal, known for its beautiful mountain landscape and natural hot springs. It is situated at an altitude of 458 meters above sea level, making i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monchique
- Montalegre is a municipality in the district of Vila Real, in the north of Portugal. It is situated near the border with Spain and is characterized by its mountainous terrain and lush forests. The tow... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montalegre
- Nazaré is a popular tourist destination located on the western coast of Portugal, approximately 120 kilometers north of Lisbon. It is a picturesque fishing town that is famous for its beautiful beache... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nazaré
- Ourém is a municipality in the Santarém District of Portugal. It is located in the center of the country and covers an area of approximately 416 square kilometers. The municipality is known for its pi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ourém
- Peniche is a coastal town located in the central-western region of Portugal. It is situated on a peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and is famous for its pristine beaches, excellent seafo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Peniche
- Ponta Delgada is a charming city located on the island of São Miguel in the Azores archipelago of Portugal. It is the largest city in the Azores and serves as the capital of the autonomous region. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ponta Delgada
- Ponte de Lima is a beautiful town located in the north of Portugal, in the district of Viana do Castelo. It is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, charming medieval streets, and uniqu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ponte de Lima
- Portalegre is a city located in the southeast of Portugal, near the border with Spain. It is the capital of the district of Portalegre and has a population of around 15,000 people. The city has a rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Portalegre
- Portimão is a coastal city located in the southern region of Portugal, known as the Algarve. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Rocha, and natural landscapes, including the Arade... CONTINUE here for a trip to Portimão
- Sure, Porto is a coastal city located in northwest Portugal, near the mouth of the Douro River. It's the second-largest city in the country after Lisbon, and it's known for its historic center, which ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Porto
- Póvoa de Varzim is a coastal city located in the north of Portugal, about 30 kilometers north of the city of Porto. It has a population of around 63,000 people and is known for its long sandy beaches,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Póvoa de Varzim
- Sesimbra is a beautiful coastal town located in the Setúbal District of Portugal. It is situated on a peninsula overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and its scenic landscape makes it a popular tourist dest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sesimbra
- Setúbal is a beautiful coastal city located in southwestern Portugal. It is the capital of the Setúbal District and is situated on the north bank of the Sado River estuary, about 40 kilometers south o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Setúbal
- Sintra is a historic town located in the Lisbon district of Portugal. It is known for its charming and romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and lush greenery. The town is situated on the slope... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sintra
- São João da Madeira is a city located in the district of Aveiro in Portugal. It has a population of over 20,000 people and covers an area of approximately 8.1 square kilometers. The city is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to São João da Madeira
- São Miguel is the largest and most populous island in the Azores archipelago, which belongs to Portugal. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,500 kilometers west of Lisbon. The island is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Miguel
- Tavira is a charming town located in the eastern part of the Algarve region, in southern Portugal. Situated on the banks of the Gilão River, it is known for its beautiful historic center with cobbled ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tavira
- Tomar is a historic city located in central Portugal, about 135 km from Lisbon. It is most famously known for its stunning medieval castle, Convento de Cristo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tomar
- Torres Vedras is a small city located in the Lisbon Region of Portugal, about 50km north of Lisbon. It has a population of around 80,000 people and boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman era. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Torres Vedras
- Viana do Castelo is a charming coastal town located in the northern region of Portugal. It is situated on the banks of the Lima River, near the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its traditional architec... CONTINUE here for a trip to Viana do Castelo
- Vila do Conde is a charming coastal town located in the Northern region of Portugal. It is a popular summer destination due to its long sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, Vila do Cond... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vila do Conde
- Vila Nova de Gaia is a city located in the north of Portugal, just across the Douro River from the city of Porto. It's known for its historical significance as the home of the port wine industry, with... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vila Nova de Gaia
- Vila Real is a city located in the northern region of Portugal. It is the capital of the Vila Real District and has a population of around 50,000 people. The city is known for its historic architectur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vila Real
- Viseu is a historic city located in central Portugal. It is the capital of the Viseu District and is known for its rich culture, architecture, and traditions. The city is surrounded by beautiful mount... CONTINUE here for a trip to Viseu
- Évora is a city located in the Alentejo region of Portugal, about one and a half hours east of Lisbon by car. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its well-preserved historical landmarks, includ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Évora
- Óbidos is a picturesque medieval town located in the West Region of Portugal, about 80 km north of Lisbon. It is known for its well-preserved castle walls that enclose narrow streets lined with whitew... CONTINUE here for a trip to Óbidos


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