Top Tips for an Unforgettable Portugal Vacation

1. Lisbon

Lisbon is a city of hills, offering stunning views from various points. The city has a unique charm, blending history with modernity.

Explore the Miradouros

Visit Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for breathtaking views of the city, including the castle and the bridge.
Check out Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara near Bairro Alto for views back towards the castle.

Take a Walking Tour

Join a private walking tour with a local guide to see the city through their eyes.
Consider the “We Hate Tourism” tour for a socially responsible travel experience.

Head Out to Belem

Belem Castle in Lisbon, Portugal — Belém Tower, Lisbon.

Take a 15-20 minute tram ride to Belem.
Visit the Torre de Belem, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries.
Don’t miss trying Pastéis de Belem, the famous egg tarts.

Getting to Lisbon

Take an Intercity (IC) train from Porto to Lisbon, arriving at Santa Apolonia station.
Use Lisbon’s clean and efficient metro to get around the city.

What to Do in Lisbon

Spend time in the city center and Alfama district.
Enjoy a sailing cruise on the Tagus River.
If you have two days, visit the Belém District for its historical sites.

Lisbon offers a mix of tourist attractions and local experiences, making it a must-visit destination.

2. Porto

Porto is a city where you can feel the local life. It’s not just for tourists. This comprehensive Porto travel guide will help you plan your trip.

Getting There

Metro: The metro from Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport takes 30-40 minutes.
Taxi: Costs around 23 Euros.
Private Transfer: Pre-book to avoid stress.

What to Do

Walking Tour: Learn about Porto’s history from Roman times to now.
Miradouros: Visit Miradouro da Vitória and Jardim de Morro for great views.
Port Houses: Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia to tour and taste port.
Food Tour: Discover Porto’s food scene.
Livraria Lello: Famous bookstore, but expect long lines.

Where to Stay

Ribeira Neighborhood: Upscale and close to the river.
Bolhão: Affordable and lively, 10-15 minutes from the river.

Day Trips

Douro Valley: Visit wineries, enjoy lunch, and take a boat cruise on the Douro River.

3. Algarve

The Algarve is Portugal’s southernmost region, known for its stunning coastline and golden beaches. It is divided into two parts: the Barlavento (windward) and the Sotavento (leeward). The Barlavento features rugged cliffs and hidden coves, while the Sotavento offers long stretches of sandy beaches.

Top Beaches

Praia da Rocha: Famous for its wide sandy beach and vibrant nightlife.
Praia da Falésia: Known for its red cliffs and clear waters.
Praia da Dona Ana: A small cove with stunning views from the bluffs.

Must-Visit Towns

Lagos: Explore historic sites and beautiful beaches.
Faro: The capital of the Algarve, rich in cultural heritage.
Tavira: Known for its ancient architecture and charming streets.

Activities

Water Sports: Enjoy surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Golf: The Algarve has some of the best golf courses in Europe.
Hiking: Discover scenic trails along the coast and in the mountains.

Travel Tips

Learn Basic Portuguese: Simple phrases like Bom dia (Good Morning) and Obrigado (Thank you) can be very helpful.
Book in Advance: Accommodations and activities fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Car Hire: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

The Algarve offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a perfect holiday destination.

4. Sintra

Sintra is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site near Lisbon. It’s perfect for a day trip or a longer stay.

Getting There

Take a 45-minute train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio Station. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

Top Attractions

Pena Palace: A colorful summer home built by King Ferdinand II. Explore the gardens and admire the palace from outside.
Castle of the Moors: Walk the ancient walls for spectacular views. Built in the 8th or 9th century.
Quinta da Regaleira: Famous for its Initiation Well and mystical gardens.

Tips

Focus on 2-3 attractions to make the most of your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Bring water and snacks for a full day of exploring.

Sintra offers a lot, so plan wisely to enjoy its beauty and history.

5. Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its terraced vineyards and stunning views. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Drive: The most straightforward way to travel from Porto to the Douro Valley is by car. The scenic road from Sabrosa to Pinhão offers incredible views.
Boat Trips: For a slower pace, take a boat trip from Porto, Peso de Régua, or Pinhão.
Train: You can also explore the wine region by train. The train from Porto to Pinhão is a popular choice.
Wine Tasting: Don’t miss the chance to taste the region’s famous port wines and table wines. Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings.
Day Tours: If you prefer not to drive, consider an organized day tour from Porto. This way, you can enjoy wine tasting without worrying about driving.

Make sure to visit the Casal de Loivos viewpoint near Pinhão for breathtaking views of the valley.

6. Madeira

Madeira is a stunning island in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers from mainland Portugal. The island is known for its gorgeous sandy beaches, towering mountains, and dense forests. If you love nature, Madeira is the place for you.

Explore Funchal

Funchal, the main city, is a must-visit. It’s a fun city with lots to explore. Walk around the city center, visit the local markets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Scenic Hikes and Levada Walks

Madeira offers some of the most scenic hikes and levada walks. These trails take you through lush forests, along cliffs, and past beautiful waterfalls. It’s a hiker’s paradise.

Volcanic Beaches

The island has unique volcanic beaches. The black sand and dramatic landscapes make these beaches a must-see. Relax and enjoy the stunning views.

Picturesque Towns

Madeira is home to many picturesque towns. Each town has its own charm and is worth a visit. Explore the local culture and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

For tours in Madeira, we recommend Mary Freitas. She offers great insights and makes your visit unforgettable.

7. Azores

The Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands, lie in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for their stunning green hills and volcanic wines, these islands offer a unique experience.

Ponta Delgada, the capital and largest city, is likely where your journey will begin. This medieval city was an important merchant port in the 15th century and has a rich history.

Outside the city, the Azores are all about breathtaking landscapes. You’ll find incredible volcanic lagoons, caves, and the highest mountains in Portugal. The white sand beaches and dense, verdant vegetation seem like they are from another world.

8. Cascais

Cascais is a charming seaside town near Lisbon. It’s an upmarket holiday resort with sandy beaches and many tourist attractions. Here are some top tips for making the most of your visit:

Evening view of Cascais, Portugal — Cascais

Explore the Beaches: Cascais boasts beautiful sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Visit the Museums: Check out the local museums to learn about the town’s rich history and culture.
Stroll the Marina: Enjoy a leisurely walk around the marina, filled with yachts and waterfront cafes.
Try Local Cuisine: Savor delicious Portuguese dishes at the town’s many restaurants and cafes.
Shop at the Markets: Visit the local markets for unique souvenirs and fresh produce.

Cascais offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination in Portugal.

9. Nazaré

Nazaré is a charming coastal town in central Portugal. It is famous for its legendary waves and beautiful beaches. If you visit in summer, consider spending an extra day here to enjoy the stunning coastline.

Practical Information for Visiting Nazaré

Park your car in the city center and explore the town on foot.
Reach the O Sitio district by funicular (recommended) or by car.

Surfing in Nazaré

Nazaré is known for the world’s largest waves. It offers an unparalleled surfing experience for thrill seekers. Even if you are not into surfing, watching the waves is a must.

Beaches in Nazaré

Praia do Norte: Famous for its big waves, ideal for professional surfers.
São Martinho do Porto: A relaxing beach protected from colder winds.
Berlenga Grande Beach: A snorkeler’s paradise with shallow waters and underwater rocks.

Tips for a Great Visit

Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Carry a sweater as it can get chilly.
Spend an extra day to fully enjoy the beaches and local culture.

10. Fátima

Fátima is a must-visit for those interested in religious history. This small town is famous for the Marian apparitions of 1917. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Sanctuary of Fátima: The main attraction, where millions of pilgrims gather each year.
Chapel of the Apparitions: A small chapel marking the exact spot of the apparitions.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary: Known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Basilica of the Holy Trinity: A modern basilica that can hold up to 9,000 people.
Wax Museum: Offers a detailed history of the apparitions through life-sized wax figures.

Practical Tips: