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11-Day Portugal Tour to Lisbon, Algarve and Porto

11 days, 1 country and 16 cities

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10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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This Best of Portugal journey reveals a nation’s proud history, warm-hearted locals and soul-warming cuisine. Starting in Lisbon, you’ll travel north and south to explore a Templar stronghold, watch thoroughbreds perform at an Alentejo farm and visit the Algarve.

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11 days itinerary trip from Lisbon to Lisbon visiting 1 country and 16 cities

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Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Lisbon, Évora, Porto, Coimbra and Tomar

Discover the Algarve, Lagos, Castelo de Vide, Viseu, Nazaré and Óbidos

Visit the Hieronymite Monastery in Lisbon, the cathedral in Évora, the Palace Gardens at Palacio de Mateus, the Stock Exchange Palace, Arabian Hall and a local port wine cellar in Porto, the University Library of Coimbra, the Convent of Christ in Tomar and Batalha's Gothic Monastery

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My 10 favourite Portugal trips in 2023

I have a confession to make: I have more fun than I have the energy (or time) to write about on this blog. It’s why last year I had a blast wrapping up my favourite trips across Portugal with a short summary – so I thought I’d do the same this year.

From the far north to the south to the mountains, I love being able to travel deeper in Portugal. To attend loads of events, go further off the beaten track with each trip. My journey to discover the weird and wild, beautiful and unique parts of this country continues!

To reflect on this great year, I’m diving into 10 of my favourite short trips around Portugal from 2023. 

1. A February weekend in Coimbra

Back in February, we dashed off to Coimbra , Portugal’s medieval capital , for a weekend away. It’s such a gorgeous city and easy to explore in a small amount of time, so I wrote a wrap covering the best things to do with 36 hours in Coimbra , which I think is the perfect amount of time in the small student city.

We stayed in a really cool heritage hotel, the Hotel Astoria , which would have been the hippest place in town when it opened in 1926.

36 hours in Coimbra

2. Cork masks, a burning effigy and plenty of wine: the traditional Schist Villages carnival

I have to thank my friend Kayla for dragging us into the hills for a wild weekend experiencing one of Portugal’s many ancient carnival traditions . After a huge, four-night group trip to Podence last year, a few of us decided to continue the tradition. The fun kicked off in Aigra Nova, a tiny one-resident schist village near Coimbra, at 8.30am on a sunny winter Sunday.

We’d signed up for the village rally, paying a total of €11 for a multi-course lunch and to follow a haphazard procession through the mountains in a mini bus. 

Read the full write-up on this wild carnival event here , and discover Portugal’s other carnival traditions with this wrap-up .

Cork masks, a burning effigy and plenty of wine: the traditional Schist Villages carnival

3. Coastal spring escape to Vila Nova de Milfontes

The beauty of Vila Nova de Milfontes never escapes me. While the town itself is nothing too special on the eye, its location at the mouth of the River Mira is remarkable . I could perch on a bench at the lookout near Forte de São Clemente and watch the tides here forever. With the ebb and flow a little ferry shuffles passengers across to the far side, and people wander down the boardwalk in front. There’s no rush this far from the city.

We’d previously visited this beach town, located on the Alentejo coast, two-hours south of Lisbon, and were here on a mini-city escape with some of our best mates from Australia. The little old house (pictured) we stayed in, Casa Ocre , was really cute and had a fireplace too.

While here you can’t miss the croissants from Mabi , or a sunset drink at A Choupana on the beach.

4. Eating our way across Serra da Estrela

Have you ever driven 3.5 hours one-way for lunch? Across all of 2023 one of Portugal’s top chefs explored regional cuisine with a series of pop-up weekend lunches and cultural experiences. Each month chef João Rodrigues explored the gastronomic culture of a new Portuguese destination, inviting diners along for the ride. We joined him in April for the chapter at Serra da Estrela , mainland Portugal’s highest mountains, for the more casual farm lunch. 

Our regret? Not splurging on the fancy meal in the old Ecolã factory. But alongside those delicious meals with guest chefs, we spent the weekend meeting producers and shepherds, visited farms and took goat selfies.

I also used it as a chance to visit Burel , one of my favourite Portuguese brands . Still using some traditional looms from the 19th century, this wool brand creates the most beautiful blankets, scarves, and wool products. Touring the factory floor was epic. As was the €4 sandwich at Ti Branquinho , stuffed with gooey Serra da Estrela cheese and Portuguese presunto ham.  

5. Party in Porto: São João weekend

After experiencing the joy of Lisbon’s June parties each year, I’d always been curious about Porto ’s São João. While Lisbon celebrates Santos Populares for the whole month, it turns out Porto turns into a party for just one night – June 23 – each year. 

I’ll remember this night every time I hear a squeaky toy. Naturally there’s terrible (yet perfect) music, dancing, street food, and beer, but São João has its own traditions, and one of them is hitting strangers with oversized plastic hammers . It seems you used to tap people on the head with a long leek or garlic stem, and while we saw a few of the garden variety, it seems the cheap made-in-China hammers are the new vogue. 

When darkness fell, people started lighting small paper hot air balloons , which drifted into the sky and made the whole city look like something from a fairytale. Close to midnight we ran across the Infante Dom Henrique bridge to gain brilliant views of the fireworks display and took in the city sitting pretty beneath a sky of flickering lights . 

We spent the evening just outside of the city in Fontaínhas , a more local clifftop neighbourhood by the river. While Lisbon’s Santos is all about being on the streets and partying, Porto’s São João seems to be more about gathering with friends or family. We noticed private parties set up on local streets, or friends bringing a grill and picnic to the lookouts to create their own fun. This is probably the way to go as São João is nowhere near as commercialised as Lisbon’s Santo António, so getting a beer and food way more of a challenge.

6. A second time at the Festa dos Tabuleiros in Tomar

This isn’t your average small-town Portuguese festival. The Festa dos Tabuleiros happens just once every four years, so after catching the spectacle in 2019 I didn’t expect to see it again – who plans four years ahead, really?

This time a group of girlfriends and I ventured north for the day, descending on Tomar in its festive best. The main event is the parade of hundreds of women carrying 1.5-metre-high towers loaded with 30 bread rolls and delicate paper flowers. It’s a never-ending tide of bread, flowers, colourful sashes and applause as the ladies in white dresses parade for five kilometres around Tomar, making this spectacle more like a marathon and physical feat. As the day wears on, you can see some struggling under the weight of their awkward 16-kilogram-plus burden.

Festa dos Tabuleiros: Tomar’s colourful Festival of Trays

7. Early summer escape to Olhão in the eastern Algarve 

Do you ever worry about returning somewhere you hold high in your memories? Perhaps the nostalgia of being there was better than real life. I needn’t have worried while zipping down the highway south to Olhão after a couple of years. This small whitewashed eastern Algarve town is one of my favourites in Portugal, and luckily this gem still matched my expectations. 

We stayed in a cute house in the old historic centre, weaving through narrow alleyways of the medina-like streets to reach local restaurants and the huge waterfront market halls. Essentially we spent the better part of a week soaking up sunshine, skipping off to small Algarve villages, and indulging in endless seafood. Bliss.

Itinerary: My ideal 7-day Algarve road trip

8. Colour and beauty at Viana do Castelo’s Romaria

Viana do Castelo is famous for its embroidery and filigree jewellery , and if you’ve been reading my blog for some time, you’ll know I’m a fan of artisans and all things made in Portugal. Safe to say I’ve had the town’s annual Romaria de Nossa Senhora d’Agonia on my Portuguese bucket list for some time.

While technically a religious festival that celebrates the patron saint of Viana do Castelo – Nossa Senhora d’Agonia (Our Lady of Sorrows) – these days the August event is a fusion of faith, folklore, and cultural heritage with concerts, parades, processions, folk dancing, and fireworks. The streets come alive with colour and music as locals don traditional costumes adorned with bright embroidery and filigree gold.

The highlight (for me, at least) is the Desfile da Mordomia , a parade where hundreds of local women parade in traditional clothing. Apparently it’s the biggest public display of gold in the world , as they all wear their heirloom jewellery pieces. To witness the pride of 900 women parade through the streets in their glorious costumes was truly wonderful.

15 best things to do in Viana do Castelo

9. An adventurous day trip to Arrábida Natural Park

What do you do when four Australian friends visit and you only have a five-seater car? You get creative. With a few summer days in Lisbon, we wanted to take our mates out to explore some of the beauty of the greater region. We settled on Arrábida Natural Park , a lush coastal wonderland south of the city that looks like a Mediterranean forest meets the Caribbean on a bright sunny day.

We took the train to Setúbal, an industrial fishing port that’s home to one of my favourite markets in Portugal. After breakfast oysters and fruit purchases we ventured down to the docks for a high-speed boat to Portinho da Arrábida , a tiny village in the heart of the park. Our long seafood lunch at Farol was fantastic. We lazed on the beach for a couple of hours before booking a Bolt to cross over the mountain range and into Azeitão . We went straight to what’s probably my favourite tile producer, Azulejos do Azeitão , where the kind owner showed our friends the process of making traditional tiles from clay and using various methods to paint them. Then, another Bolt XL back over the bridge to Lisbon.

Read next: My Guide to the Best San Sebastián Pintxo Bars

10. A lazy escape to the Alentejo with friends

Some Lisbon friends and I planned to use the October public holiday for a long weekend in the Alentejo . We booked a cute-looking house that was pet-friendly with a pool, so it was to our delight that the house – Torre da Giesteira – was actually a small palace set around a 15th-century tower . Complete with its own 19th-century convent ruin and cork and olive trees as far as the eye could see . Looking out the windows I’d often spy black pigs or sheep grazing beneath the cork trees, and at night there was not a single light on the horizon in any direction. Torre da Giesteira was the perfect relaxing escape, and only 90 minutes from Lisbon.

Where am I hoping to visit in Portugal in 2024? 

Let’s see if I can write down my hopes and manifest these trips in Portugal.

• Alto Alentejo long weekend exploring the medieval village of Marvão
• A weekend hiking between more of the 27 Xiste villages 
• Lower Alentejo Coast, around Aljezur and the Costa Vicentina
• Return to Monsaraz , a hilltop medieval walled village that I still dream about
• Somewhere fun (and remote) for carnival , maybe Ilhavo or Ousilhão
• Weekend trips to Evora, Estremoz , Aveiro
• Hire a van for a slow road trip south
• More events , especially anything to do with niche traditional foods – or wine and cheese

Enjoyed this article? Support my work and buy me a coffee  to say thanks! 

• December 18, 2023

Daniela Sunde-Brown

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Discovering the Best Travel Deals to Portugal: A 2023 Guide

Welcome, fellow wanderers and adventure seekers, to the ultimate guide on unlocking the secrets of the best travel deals to the sun-kissed land of Portugal. In this 2023 guide, we're not just talking about your run-of-the-mill package deals; we're diving deep into the intricacies of travel dynamics, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and mastering the art of snagging those wallet-friendly deals. So buckle up, because the journey is about to begin!

Table of Contents

Why choose portugal for your next adventure, understanding the dynamics of travel deals in 2023, navigating the seasons: when to plan your trip, exploring transportation options, accommodation: where to stay for the best value, uncovering hidden gems: off-the-beaten-path destinations, the power of package deals and bundles, leverage technology: apps and websites for exclusive deals, local tips and insights for budget-friendly travel, staying safe and healthy while traveling in 2023, are travel deals to portugal affected by the current global situation, when is the best time to book a travel deal to portugal for maximum savings, are package deals inclusive of all expenses, or are there hidden costs, how can i ensure the best value when booking accommodation online, what precautions should i take regarding covid-19 when traveling to portugal.

Portugal, a country where history whispers through cobblestone streets, where the aroma of delicious cuisine fills the air, and where the landscapes range from golden beaches to lush vineyards. Choosing Portugal for your next adventure is not just a travel choice; it's an immersion into a world where every corner tells a story. From the historic charm of Lisbon to the enchanting Douro Valley, Portugal offers a tapestry of unique cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and a rich history that rivals any fairy tale.

So, why Portugal? Because it's a destination that doesn't just capture your imagination; it takes it on a whirlwind romance.

Now, let's get real about travel dynamics in 2023. The world has seen its fair share of ups and downs, and the travel industry is no exception. But fear not, intrepid traveler! Understanding these dynamics is the key to unlocking the best deals.

In the current landscape, flexibility is your best friend. With travel uncertainties floating around like mischievous sprites, having the ability to adjust your plans is a superpower. Keep an eye on emerging trends, leverage the perks of booking flexibility, and stay ahead of the curve to score those unbeatable deals.

Now, let's talk seasons. No, not the Netflix kind, but the different seasons that paint Portugal in ever-changing hues. Whether you're a sun worshiper looking for golden beaches or a wine connoisseur exploring the vineyards, understanding the best times to visit is the key to unlocking travel deals.

Spring and fall are the unsung heroes of budget-friendly travel. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner, and the prices are kinder to your wallet. But hey, if you're chasing the summer sun or the cozy winter vibes, Portugal has a deal for every season.

Now that your wanderlust is officially ignited, let's talk about getting there. Airline deals and promotions are like hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. Keep your eyes peeled for flash sales and the mystical realm of off-peak travel times. Pro tip: flexibility with your travel dates can be the golden ticket to securing the best airfare.

Consider alternative airports for your grand entrance into Portugal. While Lisbon and Porto are the headliners, smaller airports can be your secret passage to budget-friendly bliss. And let's not forget the magic of budget airlines – they're like the wizards of travel, making previously distant lands just a wallet-friendly spell away. 

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Now that you've landed in this paradise, where do you rest your adventurous soul? Budget-friendly hotels and hostels are your trusty sidekicks, offering comfort without the hefty price tag. Embrace the unique accommodation experiences Portugal has to offer – from charming guesthouses to boutique stays tucked away in the heart of historic neighborhoods.

The digital era is your ally when it comes to finding the perfect pad. Online platforms unlock a treasure trove of deals; just make sure to read reviews like a seasoned detective. And remember, the best deals often hide in plain sight, waiting for the savvy traveler to discover them.

Time to escape the tourist trail and venture into the realm of hidden gems. Portugal is a mosaic of undiscovered wonders, from the medieval town of Obidos to the dramatic cliffs of the Azores. These lesser-known destinations not only offer a break from the crowds but also house some of the best-kept travel secrets.

Balancing the popular attractions with these hidden gems ensures a well-rounded and budget-friendly adventure. It's like having your custard tart and eating it too – the best of both worlds.

Package deals, the unsung heroes of the travel world. Imagine having your flights, accommodation, and maybe even a guided tour all bundled up like a gift waiting to be unwrapped. The convenience and potential savings are undeniable.

But, and it's a big but, not all packages are created equal. Dive into the details – what's included, what's not, and whether it aligns with your travel desires. Sometimes the best deal is a carefully crafted combination of individual bookings.

Stay tuned for the next segments where we'll demystify technology, spill local secrets for budget-friendly travel, and ensure your journey is not just exciting but safe and healthy. Onward, fellow explorers!

In a world where your smartphone is practically an extension of your hand, leveraging technology is a game-changer. Enter the realm of travel deal websites and apps, your trusty sidekicks in the quest for exclusive deals.

Set up price alerts like a digital hawk – be patient, let the algorithms work their magic, and swoop in when the price is just right. Flash sales, limited-time offers – these are the magical portals to budget-friendly adventures. Stay connected, stay savvy, and let technology be your travel genie.

The true essence of budget-friendly travel lies in the local secrets and insights. Want to dine like a king without breaking the bank? Seek out the local joints where authenticity meets affordability. Free or low-cost activities are scattered like breadcrumbs across Portugal – from hiking trails to cultural festivals, the options are endless.

Transportation hacks are the final piece of the budget puzzle. Public transportation, rideshares, or even a leisurely bike ride can be your ticket to exploring without the hefty price tag. Blend in with the locals, and you'll discover a Portugal that's not just beautiful but budget-friendly too.  Before you take off make sure to check with local government of the travel status.

Embarking on a journey in 2023 comes with an extra layer of responsibility – ensuring your adventure is not just memorable but also safe and healthy. Stay informed about the latest guidelines and travel restrictions, for they are the guardians of your well-being.

Portugal, with its open arms, has its own set of health and safety considerations. Familiarize yourself with local guidelines, embrace personal hygiene like a seasoned traveler, and consider travel insurance that goes the extra mile, covering unforeseen circumstances, including those pesky pandemic-related hiccups.

As the curtain falls on this guide, remember: discovering the best travel deals to Portugal in 2023 is not just about the destination; it's about the journey, the stories, and the memories waiting to be created. So, fellow explorer, go forth, embrace the adventure, and may your travel be as boundless as the beauty of Portugal itself.

Yes, the travel landscape has been influenced, but with flexibility and careful planning, excellent deals can still be found.

Generally, booking in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals can yield significant savings. It's essential to consider the timing of your trip.

Package deals vary, and it's crucial to read the terms carefully. Some may include meals and activities, while others focus solely on accommodation and transportation.

Utilize reliable travel platforms, read reviews, and consider booking directly with the accommodation for potential discounts or perks.

Stay informed about the latest guidelines, maintain personal hygiene, and consider travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances, including pandemic-related issues.

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Top 10 Useful Tips for Planning a Trip to Portugal (2023)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: February 14, 2023

Are you planning a trip to Portugal? I’ve fallen in love with this European country and feel it should be on everyone’s must-visit list! From the amazing architecture and tiles to the welcoming locals, Portugal will become one of your favorite places. Here are 10 tips to help you plan a trip to Portugal!

How Long is the Flight to Portugal

First off let’s look at how to get to Portugal. From the US, you’ll mostly be looking at flying out of an east-coast airport for direct flights. TAP Airlines is the national airline for Portugal and offers non-stop flights out of a few US cities (Newark, New York, Chicago, Boston, Washington D.C., San Francisco, and Miami). You’ll likely fly into Lisbon airport from the US, but Porto is another option.

From Newark to Lisbon, the flight will take about 7.25 hours. Flying from Newark to Porto is just about 7 hours. And if you are able to get a non-stop flight out of the west coast, San Francisco to Lisbon will take about 11 hours. You’ll definitely find more flights available from the east coast (Newark or Boston) and if you want non-stop flights, TAP Airlines has the best options.

Related Post: TAP Business Class vs Economy Xtra Flight Experience

I should also mention that the Azores is a very popular tourist destination and is closer to the US since the islands sit in the middle of the Atlantic.

The flight from Newark to the Azores is only 5.5 hours versus the 7+ hours to mainland Portugal. There’s also a local airline, Azores Airlines, that flies between the US and the Azores.

How to Get Around

When you’re thinking of how you want to get around Portugal, you’ll want to know how much you’ll be moving around the country. Most of the highway infrastructure around the country is very developed and easy to drive and follow. Driving is the same as in the US, right side of the road driving (the driver sits on the left).

The issue with driving yourself in Portugal comes with the cities and towns. Many of the roads are EXTREMELY narrow. Parking is also problematic in a city center and could be difficult to manage for a tourist.

For tourists, I’d recommend hiring a driver for day trips if you’re looking to adventure beyond a city (i.e. Lisbon or Porto). If you’re planning to venture to more of the country like the Alentejo and Algarve regions, a confident driver would be fine with a car rental from the outskirts of the city and driving to those regions that have a bit more space.

Driving in the Douro Valley can be done but it does require a bit of research and planning. The roads on the south side of the Douro River are more developed, whereas trying to visit wineries on the north side of the river is much harder due to there being no developed roads.

If I was recommending transportation to a friend, I’d likely tell them to avoid a rental car. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are easily available in major cities.

There is also a fairly extensive rail system in Portugal and you can book a train ticket between many of the large cities. Taxis are also still used at airports and in cities. Public transportation can be the best way and most economical way to get around.

As I said before, one of the easier options is to hire a driver for a transfer or day trip. While hiring a driver is a more expensive option, it’s often worth the added expense since it allows you to relax and not worry about logistics. Many times your hotel can offer great recommendations for airport and day trip transfer drivers.

On my recent trip to Portugal, I was working with EPIC Travel and they made all of our driver bookings and transfers. Epic is a bespoke luxury travel planning agency that works only in Portugal and Morocco — the countries where their agents live.

Epic Travel has the best local contacts and will help book you a Portugal vacation that is immersive and saves you the stress of planning an entire international vacation on your own. If you do work with Epic, be sure to mention ‘ Stuffed Suitcase ‘ when you’re booking and you’ll get a VIP gift!

Regions of Portugal

There are seven main regions of Portugal , all with unique sites and beautiful places to visit. Most of the areas offer medieval towns or historic cities, unique food experiences, outdoor activities, and friendly people.

Check out these awesome Places & Cities in Portugal to Visit !

Northern Portugal is most notable for being home to the Unesco World Heritage Site of Porto and the Douro Valley. This region is where Portugal was founded in the 12th century. Plus, it’s famous for being the home of port and Douro wines. This is a river valley region and you’ll find some outdoor activities in this area like hiking and riverboat rides.

In Central Portugal, you’ll discover some historic towns and castles, like in Belmonte. You’ll also find the Serra da Estrela mountains, which are home to the highest peak in mainland Portugal. The mountains are perfect for outdoor adventure, and they’re also home to herds of sheep that are used to produce the famous S erra da Estrela cheese.

Probably one of the most popular regions for tourists, the Lisbon region is home to the country’s capital, Lisbon. This beautiful city is the largest in Portugal and is a must-see for any visitor. But beyond Lisbon, this region is also home to some of the most notable images of Portugal, namely the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém and Pena Palace in Sintra.

One of the biggest surprises from my recent trip was the discovery of the Alentejo region of Portugal. This region is the largest in the country, but often gets overlooked by visitors. If you love wine, great hotels, and fantastic night skies, you must add Alentejo to your Portugal itinerary!

The Algarve is another extremely popular destination for tourists visiting Portugal. It’s along the southern coast and known for its rocky cliffs and sandy, beautiful beaches as well as having plenty of resort hotels and golf courses. The architecture of Algarve towns also shows its Arabic history.

This area of Portugal is a popular vacation destination for locals as well as tourists. The Algarve is also a great place to enjoy some Peri-Peri Chicken.

A growing tourist region of Portugal is the Azores. This is an archipelago off the coast of Portugal which is actually an autonomous region operating on its own from Portugal. It’s made up of nine islands all with unique features that will appeal to those wanting outdoor adventures, relaxing hotels, and/or amazing scenic views.

The largest island is São Miguel, which also contains the main airport in the city of Ponta Delgada. The Azores is a growing tourist destination, so I plan you visit soon if you want to see it before the crowds get too large.

Planning a trip to the Azores can be a bit tricky, reach out to EPIC Travel if you want to experience the best the Azores has to offer. Make sure you start planning and booking early as there is limited infrastructure for the growing tourist interest.

Another island and autonomous region of Portugal is Madeira. I don’t know much about the tourist offerings of Madeira but it’s known for its Madeira wine as well as being a great spot for whale watching and scuba diving.

Planning Your Itinerary

I have a few tips for planning your Portugal itinerary. You’ll need to carefully consider how much time you have for your vacation. And you’ll also want to know how much you want to move around. While Portugal is a small country, you still need time to see all the great sites so moving around does take time for sightseeing.

If it’s your first trip to Portugal and you only have a week, I would say you have a couple of options. You can stay solely in Lisbon and take day trips outside of the city to popular places like Sintra and Belém.

You also might consider flying into Lisbon and then out of Porto to experience both cities. Lastly, if you’re looking for some city touring and wine tasting, you could arrive in Lisbon and drive out to the Alentejo region for a few nights, then come back to Lisbon to end your trip and fly back home.

Coming from the US, another option for a 7-day vacation could be entirely in the Azores if you’re searching for a trip with more adventure and nature.

You could also fly into Lisbon for a few nights, then fly to the Azores for a few nights, and then fly home to the US from the Azores. The drawback is this plan costs you an extra travel day which limits what you can see.

Having 10 to 14 days would allow you much more freedom in planning a trip to Portugal. On my recent trip, I spent 17 days touring the country. It was very busy and we moved almost every night. While I’m glad I got to see a large part of the country, I recommend visitors stick to 1-2 stops for a 1-week trip, and only 3-4 stops if you have 2 weeks.

I think an ideal first trip to Portugal would include a visit to Lisbon and one additional region. Either head north to see the Porto and/or the Douro Valley, head inland to the Alentejo for a relaxing stay with wine tasting, or head to the south region of the Algarve for beaches.

Again, I’m going to mention that if you truly want to experience Portugal, consider working with EPIC Travel and have them plan your whole Portugal vacation. They’ll make all the bookings and arrangements for you and they’ll tailor your trip to include unique local experiences that the average tourist might not know to book.

You tell EPIC how many days you want to travel and your budget and they’ll create a perfect Portugal itinerary for you. Don’t forget to mention ‘Stuffed Suitcase’ to get a special VIP gift with your booking!

Best Places to Visit

If you’re planning your first trip to Portugal, you’re going to want to experience some of what makes the country unique.

Lisbon should definitely be on your list. It’s the capital of Portugal, the country’s largest city, and is filled with historic architecture. You’ll find lots of hills and narrow streets. Buildings are covered in gorgeous tile, and many sidewalks and roads are paved with a mosaic of limestone and basalt. You can also check out great views of the Tagus River.

Two options for day trips from Lisbon are Sintra and Belém. Both offer tourists a chance to look back at history. Sintra has the Pena Palace as well as Quinta de Regaleira and the Castle of the Moors. Belém is home to the Jerónimos Montesary and the cafe that serves the classic Pastéis de Belém, as well as many museums.

For wine lovers, you’ll likely want to plan to visit Porto and the Douro Valley. It’s the home of port wine and an emerging table wine region. The Douro Valley is famous for its terraced vineyard river valley. Wine lovers might also consider visiting the Alentejo region of Portugal.

And visitors looking for a resort vacation and beaches should consider visiting the Algarve region or perhaps Comporta or Cascais which are closer to Lisbon.

What to Wear in Portugal

Packing for Portugal will vary greatly based on when you’re visiting and where you’re going. The south of Portugal can be fairly mild all year long, although the winter months can be rainy and cool. Up north, you’ll find a wet and cold winter. During the summer months, the interior Alentejo region can get extremely hot.

One of the best things to wear in Portugal is a good pair of shoes. Especially when walking in the cities! The limestone and basalt sidewalks and roads can get extremely slick if it rains, so wear a pair with traction.

For women, I recommend you consider wearing a variety of long maxi dresses paired with a cardigan as well as a good pair of pants and various tops. If you’re traveling in a shoulder season, a good cardigan that is easy to pack and carry is a must-have. And of course, bring shorts if you’re traveling during warm weather.

In Portugal, dinner time is typically fairly late. Most restaurants will be busy with locals beginning around 830-9 pm. If you’re at a restaurant and it’s busy between 6-8 pm, you’re probably seeing a lot of tourists. :) Since dinner can run late in the evenings, it’s good to be prepared for the temperature to drop.

You can dress casually in Portugal and rely on accessories to help you dress up an outfit. I did not visit any nightclubs, so can’t advise you as to what the popular type of dress is for that kind of activity. But for standard travel, a comfortable long dress or pants and top paired with a cute pair of shoes with traction is all you need.

For my trip a few of the go-to items I packed that worked well for me were:

• Travel Pants (I love these Gap joggers and Columbia joggers and pants )
• Maxi/Midi Dresses (check prAna , Columbia , and J.Crew )
• Various Travel Tops ( Columbia , Target , prAna )
• Jeans / Shorts
• Comfy Shoes (I loved my Vionic Laguna Espadrille and Sketchers )
• Packable Jacket (if traveling during cooler temps)

Of course, if you’re planning a trip to some Portugal beaches, you might want to check out my beach packing list for any extra items you might want to bring along. Keep in mind that in many popular tourist towns, you can find stores selling items you might have forgotten.

Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal is an ideal destination for shoulder season travel. Prices are lower and you’ll find fewer crowds.

If you can visit in the spring, March to May, you’ll find the country in bloom and the temperatures just starting to rise a bit. You might still have some rain, but you might get lucky with some blue skies, too. Many attractions will also begin to reopen from winter closures after Easter.

Summer is considered the peak season for Portugal. Summer months will have hot temps inland, but it’s also an ideal time for beach vacations. Keep in mind that many of the locals become tourists to those very same beaches during the summer months, especially August. If you are visiting in the summer, be sure to book in advance and aim to be indoors during the peak midday temps.

Be sure you check that your accommodations have air conditioning if you’re visiting in the summer. Also, be prepared for mosquitos during the summer months!

Autumn in Portugal is my favorite time! The wine harvest typically takes place from around mid-September to October, so the vineyards will all start changing colors (mid to late October) and you’ll get to enjoy some great winery activity. You’ll also miss the chaos of summer travel crowds. The weather will be very nice although evenings will start to cool down and rain may be in the forecast.

How Much Does a Trip to Portugal Cost

Traveling to Portugal can be one of the more affordable European vacations. It’s also a great destination for novice international travelers since so many locals speak English and transportation is fairly easy.

Airfare to Portugal will vary widely based on where you’re departing from. If you can get yourself to the east coast, you can likely find flight deals to Portugal for around $500 per ticket in economy. Sign up for flight deal notifications from a program like Dollar Flight Club or Scott’s Cheap Flights .

Many accommodations, even in the heart of Lisbon, are still priced well. You can expect to get a 3-4 star hotel for $150-$225 per night, and you might even be able to get a luxury hotel for around $250-$400 per night depending on the location and season. You’ll also be able to find many multi-room options that work well for families.

Food in Portugal is where you’ll save some money, and there is plenty of delicious food to enjoy! You can easily find affordable meals in various towns and cities, while tourist towns will have an added cost due to it being for tourists.

I think you can expect to spend around $12 USD (€10) for the main dish at dinner at an average restaurant. If you’re dining at a hotel restaurant or nicer tourism area restaurant, you would expect to spend about $25-$50 for entrees.

Like other European countries, many Portugal restaurants offer a bread service, called couvert. Sometimes they’ll bring it to your table without you ordering it and if you enjoy it, you’ll be charged for it.

Tipping is not a big priority when dining in Portugal. Often you can leave a little bit of your Euro change as a way of a tip. Some suggest tipping around 5-10%, but based on my experience with locals, tipping is not expected and might already be “included” in the prices.

The final consideration when figuring out the cost of your Portugal vacation is attractions. While much of your sightseeing will be free as you walk and explore, you can expect to spend money on tours and museum entrances. Museums will cost a nominal fee of around $2-$12, a larger tourist attraction might cost more.

If you decide to book any guided tours , you should expect to spend about $70-$100 per person for small-group day trip tours. And don’t forget to add a small tip for your tour guide.

Of course, EPIC Travel set up all of our tours as part of our package on our recent trip, but if I was booking on my own, I’d make sure to include some of these tours:

• Duoro Valley Wine Tasting & River Cruise
• Sintra Full Day Trip from Lisbon
• Lisbon TukTuk Tour (do this on your first day to help learn the city)
• Lisbon Food Tour
• Private Lisbon/Belem Sunset Boat Tour (or group tour )

Keep in mind when traveling to Portugal it’s a good idea to have some Euro cash on hand but much of your purchasing will be done with credit cards. Portugal uses tap to pay quite a bit, and I have found that Visa is probably the most widely accepted card.

Things to Buy in Portugal

One of the great things to do when you travel is to buy some great souvenirs! If you’re thinking of what you might want to bring home, here are some of the top Portugal souvenirs:

• Port wine – I highly recommend doing some tastings and learning about all the types of port wine before deciding which to buy.
• Wine – beyond Port wine, Portugal has some great wines and many are not available in the US. If you’re able to find a way to bring or ship a favorite wine home with you, I recommend buying some.
• Cork – Portugal creates a lot of cork, unfortunately, much of it becomes champagne corks. Beware of buying cork products in cities as much of it is not authentic.
• Pottery – Portugal has some amazing pottery and ceramics, the town of Corval in Alentejo is one of the best places to buy some.
• Sardines – this is more of a funny gift, but sardines are big in Portugal and in Lisbon, they even have a sardine tourist store that has canned sardines for the year you were born.
• Olive Oil – olives are plentiful in Portugal so it’s no surprise that olive oil is bottled by local producers and makes a great souvenir.

I’ll also mention that while you can’t bring it home, you should definitely enjoy orange juice with breakfast while you’re in Portugal. And if you like honey, that’s another must-try during your trip!

What Language is Spoken in Portugal

If you want to learn some Portuguese before your trip, you might have a bit of an issue. Most of the online language learning programs only offer Brazilian Portuguese, which does have some differences from European (Portugal) Portuguese.

YouTube might be your best option for learning Portuguese. Although, I was glad I had done some learning with Duolingo.

English is widely spoken in most tourist centers and English speakers can likely get by easily with a few basic words and a translation app. I’ll also mention that knowing Spanish might also be helpful as there is some crossover with Spanish.

Some words you might want to know:

• Hello – Olá
• Good morning – Bom dia (afternoon – boa tarde, evening – boa noite)
• Goodbye – Tchau (said like the Italian ciao “chow”)
• Please – Por favor
• Thank you – Obrigado (m) /Obrigada (f)
• Yes – Sim
• No – Não
• Do you speak english? – Fala inglês?

Hopefully, this information will help you plan your trip! I absolutely love the country and would happily go back again. Feel free to comment or email me if you have any questions about planning a trip to Portugal.

And, don’t forget that if you are looking to have your trip planned for you, EPIC Travel offers bespoke travel planning services. They’ll arrange a trip with authentic experiences and amazing accommodations around the country. Be sure to mention ‘Stuffed Suitcase’ to get a VIP gift with your booking.

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Monday 10th of July 2023

Thank you for this blog entry. Very informative. I looked up EPIC travel, their intake form says their minimum budget for the week in Portugal is 5,000-6,000 Euro per person. Can that be right? I was going to reach out to them, but not if that is the minimum per person. Any guidance you have on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Wednesday 12th of July 2023

Hi Merritt, they are a bespoke custom tour company and do book higher end properties and experiences, so it's possible that is the price point. I do recall them mentioning that their average customer spends $10-$15k on their trips. EPIC is specifically focused on Portugal and Morocco, so their guides and partnerships are a little more upscale than some other general tour companies. You could always look at a company like Intrepid or G Adventures as they often have more moderate priced tours, but just know it's not going to be private and custom.

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Wednesday 11th of May 2022

Going to Portugal next week!!! Do I need power adapters???? Your blog is so helpful!

Yay! I bet you're going to have a fabulous time. Portugal uses 230V supply voltage and 50Hz, so some of your electronics might be okay with an adapter. You will need an adapter to convert your US-style plug into European-style outlets. I have a standard European plug converter and it fits types C and F plugs. The bigger question is if you have any special electronics that will need a power converter as well. Most electronics (like an iPhone apple charger) will have the ability to handle 230V and 50 Hz but you can always look on the charger to see what it's licensed for. Power converters are typically needed for larger electronics and hair accessories. Let me know if that makes sense or if you have further questions! And, thanks for asking bc I'll add that to my post soon!

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