Portugal

Travel Guide

Portugal Travel

Portugal is a country where the thrill of nature takes over and gives travelers a buzz like no other, from the wind in your hair as you drive down the rugged Algarve coast to the sun shining on salty skin after a good surf. Road tripping is a must here, with endless quiet roads that hug extraordinary cliffs, caves, and zig-zag right through stunning national parks like Sintra. All of this makes a vacation in Portugal perfect for adventure lovers.

How to Plan Your Trip to Portugal

Follow our Portugal travel guides to plan the perfect road trip! Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the southern coast, party in Albufeira, or dive into the rich history of Porto, we’ve got you covered with our informative guides. Explore all the best places in Portugal, or check out our 2-week Portugal itinerary.

If you want to see even more of the country, 3 weeks in Portugal is even better.

Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal’s good weather makes it a year-round destination. The sun reigns supreme in the southern Algarve region, with scorching summers drawing beach lovers to the golden shores. The central areas, including Lisbon and Porto, enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers. The islands, like Madeira and the Azores, boast a temperate maritime climate, keeping the scenery lush year-round.

Shoulder Seasons: Spring (March-May) and fall (Sept – Nov) is the best time to visit Portugal. During these shoulder seasons, temperatures are nice, and tourist crowds are low, making it a great time to go sightseeing, hiking, or enjoying wine tasting in the Douro Valley.

High Season: The summer months are the peak season when coastal regions bustle with visitors for the sun and sea. Spring and fall are more relaxed times to explore historic sites, like Lisbon’s iconic neighborhoods and Porto’s wine cellars.

Coastlines and Beaches

Portugal’s beaches and coastline are a sun-kissed paradise, with over 1790 kilometers of sparkling sand. From thrilling water sports near Ferragudo to leisurely beach hopping or simply basking in the summer sun, visiting the coastline is one of the best things to do in Portugal.

The Algarve: Along the Algarve’s rugged cliffs, discover hidden coves and dramatic grottoes that invite you to explore. The pristine Praia da Marinha, with its iconic limestone arches, makes you feel as if you’ve just stepped into a postcard.

Best places to surf: For surfers, the waves of Praia do Guicho near Lisbon make up the perfect playground. Catch a wave, feel the ocean’s energy, and soak up the incredible atmosphere on your vacation in Portugal. Meanwhile, the golden beaches of Praia da Comporta provide another serene escape with quiet rustling dunes.

The Azores Islands: In the Azores, the beaches are unlike any other, with black volcanic sands contrasting with the blue waters on São Miguel Island. It’s as if you’ve landed on another planet.

Food, Culture, and Religion in Portugal

Portugal is a land of captivating contrasts, noticeable in its food, culture, and religion.

Food: The cuisine is a delicious fusion of flavors and influences, boasting seafood along the coast and tasty custard tarts in the cities. Pair all of that with an iconic local wine, and you have great cuisine for your Portugal holiday.

Culture: Portugal’s cultural heritage is a testament to its rich history. From Lisbon’s historic Alfama district with narrow winding streets to Porto’s Ribeira, there’s much to marvel at in Portugal. Listen to the soulful music of Fado echoing through the streets as you sit down on one of the vibrant terraces, looking out over the historic towns and villages by the sea.

Religion: Portugal’s religious roots run deep, with many devotees worldwide still visiting the country on their pilgrimage. Its Catholic heritage is evident in ornate churches and religious festivals that bring communities from many neighborhoods together.

Why You Should Travel to Portugal

With its charismatic character and irresistible blend of old-world charm and sun-kissed coast, a vacation in Portugal is bound to leave every traveler in awe. In Lisbon, stroll through the labyrinth of streets covered in colorful tiles. Then, check out fairytale-like Sintra or historic Evora, where tall castles and old buildings peep between the lush forests. And don’t forget the postcard-worthy coastline, perfect for every type of beachgoer. Combine that with delicious cuisine and a great atmosphere, and you’ll soon feel like you belong.

Safety and Travel Advice in Portugal

Portugal is generally a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. However, staying informed about safety measures and travel tips is always recommended.

Natural disasters: Portugal experiences a relatively low occurrence of natural disasters. However, while rare, earthquakes and forest fires can happen. Download your local government app or register at an embassy for emergency updates.

Crime and safety in Portugal: Crime levels are generally low in Portugal. However, like in many tourist destinations, petty crime can occur in crowded areas or tourist hotspots like Lisbon and Porto. Pickpocketing is a risk, especially on public transport and crowded bus and tram stations. Try leaving your valuables at home and carry your bag in the front. Be particularly careful on the number 15 and 28 trams in Lisbon.

Beach time is one of the best things to do in Portugal, with many kilometers of beautiful golden sand. However, some locations aren’t safe for swimming with strong rip tides and undercurrents. Don’t swim at beaches without a lifeguard or those that have warning flags. A red flag indicates danger; don’t go into the water. A yellow flag means caution, meaning you can walk in the water but not swim.

Learn more about travel safety

Traffic: Depending on your destination and the time of year, traffic can be busy in Portugal. If you’re driving a rental car in Portugal, always watch for traffic signs and stick to the rules (even when locals don’t). Avoid driving in city centers or hilltop villages, known for traffic jams and narrow streets and use our Portugal travel guides for the best tips.

Car theft: Foreign-registered and rental cars in Portugal can be subject to car theft. Because of this, always be mindful of where you park, and don’t leave anything on display inside. Try to remove all valuables and luggage from your vehicle if you can.

Travel Insurance: One of the things we always recommend for your Portugal holiday is purchasing travel insurance. Whether it’s lost luggage or unforeseen accidents, travel insurance provides peace of mind, ensuring a smoother and worry-free experience. Check out these best travel insurances.