Portugal is a small country that offers an incredible range of experiences. It’s blessed with stunning beaches, a rugged coastline, cosmopolitan cities, and amazing weather.
From lively Lisbon to historic Porto, from the sunny Algarve beaches to the fairytale palaces of Sintra, there’s something for everyone.
Travelers of all ages and styles—budget backpackers, luxury seekers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and adventurers—will find Portugal welcoming and easy to explore.
This guide will walk you through where to go, what to eat, how to get around, and essential tips to make the most of your trip (whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure).
Where to Go
Portugal may be relatively small, but each region has its own unique charm.
Here are the most popular cities and regions you shouldn’t miss:
Lisbon – The Vibrant Capital
Lisbon is a city of colorful hilltop neighborhoods, historic trams, and soulful fado music. It spreads across seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, offering scenic viewpoints (called miradouros) at every turn.
Stroll through the Alfama district’s maze of narrow streets beneath the ancient São Jorge Castle for a taste of old Lisbon.
In Belém, admire the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower, then treat yourself to the original custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém – the bakery dating back to 1837 that still draws long lines for these famous pastries.
Downtown, the Baixa and Chiado areas are filled with shops, cafes, and the impressive riverside Praça do Comércio.
Lisbon’s charm lies in its mix of the old and the new: you can ride the historic Tram 28 rattling through old quarters, then hop off to enjoy modern art at the LX Factory or nightlife in Bairro Alto.
Just don’t forget comfortable shoes – the city’s cobbled streets and steep hills will give you a workout!
Porto – Wine, Riverfronts, and Charm
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, sits by the Douro River and is famed as the home of Port wine. This picturesque city boasts hillside neighborhoods with multicolored houses and a UNESCO-listed old town (Ribeira) that’s perfect for wandering.
Cross the Dom Luís I bridge (on foot or by metro) for stunning views, and explore the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank – you can sample the sweet fortified wine that became globally popular after the 17th century.
Porto may be more laid-back than Lisbon, but it has its own wow factors: visit the beautiful São Bento train station to see its azulejo tile murals, climb the Clérigos Tower for a panorama of the city’s red roofs, and lose yourself in the historic Livraria Lello bookstore.
Foodies will love Porto’s specialties like the francesinha (a hearty layered meat-and-cheese sandwich smothered in sauce) and the fresh seafood at the local markets.
With plenty of riverside cafes, live music bars, and a cozy atmosphere, Porto is a delight for culture and wine lovers alike.
It’s also a great base for day trips – you can take a short cruise or train ride into the Douro Valley to tour vineyards and sip wine with a view of terraced hills.
The Algarve – Sun, Sea, and Adventure
The Algarve is Portugal’s southernmost region, known for spectacular beaches, dramatic cliffs, and relaxed resort towns. If you’re seeking sun and surf, this is the place to be.
Popular towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Faro offer a mix of beautiful sandy bays and fun activities. In Lagos, you can explore the stunning rock formations and grottoes of Ponta da Piedade by kayak or boat.
Albufeira is known for its lively strip of bars and nightlife, while Tavira in the east Algarve offers charming cobbled streets and a quieter vibe.
Don’t miss a boat tour to the Benagil Cave, a sea cave with a natural skylight, or a trip to the southwestern tip of Europe at Cabo de São Vicente near Sagres, often called “the end of the world” for its sweeping ocean views.
The Algarve caters to all travel styles: adventurers can try surfing or paddleboarding (the coast has some great surf spots), nature lovers can visit the Ria Formosa lagoon to see flamingos and kayak through wetlands, and relaxation seekers will find plenty of sandy shores to simply sunbathe.
The region has accommodations ranging from budget-friendly surf hostels to luxury golf resorts.
And of course, the seafood is outstanding – enjoy grilled sardines, clams (ameijoas), or the local cataplana seafood stew with a view of the sunset.
Sintra – Palaces and Enchanted Forests
Just a short hop from Lisbon (about 40 minutes by train) lies Sintra, a whimsical mountain town that feels straight out of a storybook. Sintra is home to fairytale palaces, exotic gardens, and mystical forests that have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
The star is Pena Palace, a multicolored Romanticist castle set high on a hill with eye-popping yellow and red towers that can be seen from afar. Nearby, the Moorish Castle ruins offer panoramic views of the region’s hills and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
Don’t miss Quinta da Regaleira, an estate with lush gardens hiding secret tunnels and the famous “Initiation Well” spiraling deep into the earth. The Sintra National Palace, with its twin chimneys, sits in the town center and showcases medieval royal history.
Wandering through Sintra, you’ll find yourself amid a cool, misty microclimate – a refreshing break from Lisbon’s heat – surrounded by ferns and extravagant mansions. It’s a paradise for photographers and anyone who loves a bit of magic.
You can visit Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon, but if you have time, consider an overnight stay to enjoy the palaces in the early morning or late afternoon when crowds thin out.
Local tip: Try the local pastries travesseiros (flaky almond cream pillows), at a historic bakery like Piriquita, and if you have extra time, head to the nearby coast to see Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, or the beach town of Cascais.
(Beyond these, Portugal has many other gems: the medieval university town of Coimbra, the Alentejo region’s cork forests and walled towns like Évora, the verdant Azores islands in the Atlantic for hiking and whale watching, and the island of Madeira known for its levada trails and wine. But for most first-time visitors, the destinations above offer a perfect starting taste of Portugal.)
What to Eat in Portugal
One of the joys of visiting Portugal is the delicious cuisine. The food here is hearty, flavorful, and rooted in tradition, with plenty of regional specialties.
Here are some must-try Portuguese foods and drinks:
Pastel de Nata (Custard Tart)
Portugal’s most famous sweet treat. These golden egg custard tarts have a flaky crust and creamy center, often dusted with cinnamon. They are addictive and available at every café.
The most iconic ones are from Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon, where the recipe has been a secret since 1837 (expect a line out the door for these originals). Enjoy with a bica (espresso) for the true local experience.
Bacalhau (Salted Codfish)
The beloved national dish. The Portuguese say there are more than 365 ways to cook bacalhau – one for every day of the year – so you’ll find this dried and salted cod prepared in countless styles.
Try bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with eggs and potatoes) or bacalhau com natas (baked with cream).
Even though the cod itself is often imported, it’s been a staple since the Age of Exploration, and no trip is complete without tasting it.
Grilled Sardines (Sardinhas Assadas)
Especially popular in summer months, you’ll smell sardines grilling on open charcoals during local festivals (June is the month of Saint Anthony in Lisbon, celebrated with heaps of sardines).
These fresh Atlantic sardines are simply seasoned and charred to perfection.
Eat them on a slice of bread or with a salad – simple but bursting with flavor. In coastal towns and traditional tascas (taverns), this is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Francesinha
A Porto specialty that’s not for the faint of heart (or appetite).
The francesinha is a hefty layered sandwich filled with ham, steak, sausage, and covered in melted cheese and a rich beer-tomato sauce, often served with fries.
It’s the ultimate comfort food after a day of sightseeing (or a late night out). Every Portuense has their favorite spot for it, so feel free to ask a local where to find the best one.
Piri-Piri Chicken (Frango Piri-Piri)
Grilled chicken marinated in a spicy piri-piri chili sauce. This dish originated in the Algarve, influenced by Mozambique (a former Portuguese colony where the chili peppers were found).
The chicken is butterflied and charcoal-grilled, coming out smoky, juicy, and nicely spiced (typically not too mouth-searing unless you add extra hot sauce).
Have it with chips (fries) and a salad – a satisfying meal for cheap.
You might recognize this style from the chain Nando’s (which was inspired by Portuguese piri-piri chicken).
Port Wine & Vinho Verde
Portugal has amazing wines. Port wine, a sweet fortified wine, is produced in the Douro Valley and aged in cellars of Porto – perfect as a dessert wine or for tasting flights by the river.
In Porto or Gaia, you can tour the cellars and sample varieties of tawny and ruby ports. On the other end of the spectrum, Vinho Verde (literally “green wine”) is a young wine from the north, usually white, light, and slightly effervescent – very refreshing on a hot day.
Of course, Portugal also produces excellent reds (try wines from the Alentejo or Dão regions) and whites.
And don’t leave without sipping ginjinha, a cherry liqueur common in Lisbon, often served in a tiny chocolate cup!
Portugal’s food is very regional, so keep an eye out for local specialties wherever you go. In the Algarve, savor seafood like clams à Bulhão Pato (in garlic and cilantro sauce) or a cataplana stew.
In Coimbra or Lisbon, you might encounter leitão (suckling pig) or hearty caldo verde soup (made with kale and potato).
And save room for desserts: beyond pastéis de nata, there are queijadas (cheese tarts) and many conventual sweets with fascinating histories.
Eating in Portugal is a journey in itself – and thankfully, it’s quite affordable, so you can feast without breaking the bank.
How to Get Around
Navigating Portugal is generally convenient and affordable, thanks to a well-developed transportation network.
Here’s how to get around:
By Plane
If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll likely fly into Lisbon, Porto, or Faro (for the Algarve), as they have international airports.
Within mainland Portugal, however, you probably won’t need to fly between cities – the country is compact, and ground transport is efficient.
The exceptions are the Azores and Madeira islands, which require a flight (Lisbon to Madeira or Azores is only about 2 hours, and can be quite cheap if booked in advance).
For mainland travel, consider the options below.
By Train
Portugal’s train network (Comboios de Portugal – CP) connects major cities and many towns. Trains are comfortable, scenic, and reasonably priced.
For example, a high-speed Alfa Pendular train from Lisbon to Porto (a journey of about 3 hours) can cost around €25 if booked in advance.
There are slower intercity and regional trains too, which are even cheaper. The train is a relaxing way to enjoy the countryside – routes like the Douro Valley line offer great views.
Lisbon and Porto both have suburban trains (e.g., Lisbon to Sintra or Cascais, Porto to Braga or Guimarães), which make popular day trips easy.
Tip: Book online or at the station; seat reservations are usually included for long-distance trains.
By Bus
Buses reach everywhere, including smaller towns that trains don’t. Long-distance buses (Rede Expressos, FlixBus, etc.) are often the most budget-friendly way to travel.
For instance, a bus from Lisbon to Lagos (Algarve) might cost ~€15-20.
Buses are modern and air-conditioned, but keep in mind they can take longer than trains (the trade-off for saving money).
In the cities, local buses and trams supplement the metro networks, reaching neighborhoods or suburbs where trains don’t go.
Public Transit in Cities
Lisbon has an extensive metro, trams, and buses, while Porto has a light-rail metro and buses. A single metro or bus ride in Lisbon/Porto typically costs around €1.5 (even less with a reloadable transit card).
In Lisbon, the classic yellow trams are both a transit option and a tourist attraction – Tram 28, in particular, is famous for rolling through picturesque old quarters (just watch out for pickpockets on crowded trams, as they target tourists).
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available in cities for reasonable fares, but traffic can slow you down.
Many visitors actually find that walking is one of the best ways to get around urban centers, given all the hidden lanes and viewpoints you can discover on foot (just mind the hills!).
By Car
Renting a car is a popular choice if you want to explore rural areas, chase waves along the coast, or hop between smaller villages at your own pace.
Rentals can be quite affordable (around €25 a day for a basic car in low season), especially split among friends or family.
Roads in Portugal are generally in good condition, and they drive on the right side. Highways (autoestradas) are fast, but some have tolls (you can get an electronic toll device with your rental).
Having a car is great for the Algarve (to reach secluded beaches) or exploring the Alentejo and Douro regions.
However, in big cities like Lisbon or Porto, a car is more hassle than a help – parking is scarce and streets are narrow.
So you might rent a car for specific legs of your trip, but not for the city portions.
Other Options
Portugal is bicycle-friendly in many areas; you can rent bikes in cities or along beach towns (there are even dedicated bike lanes along some coastal routes).
For example, cycling between Cascais and Guincho beach near Lisbon is a scenic ride. Taxis are fine for short trips, and the starting fare is low (around €3-4), but costs add up per kilometer.
Uber and Bolt operate in major areas and can sometimes be cheaper than traditional taxis.
If you’re feeling very adventurous (and patient), hitchhiking is legal and relatively safe in Portugal, especially along the well-traveled coastal routes – though it’s not super common, some backpackers do it for the experience.
Where to Stay
Portugal offers a wide range of accommodations to fit every budget and style, from hostel dorms to luxury resorts.
You’ll find places to stay that enhance your travel experience, whether you want a sociable atmosphere, a touch of history, or total relaxation by the sea.
Budget Travelers
Hostels in Portugal are top-notch – in fact, Lisbon and Porto often boast award-winning hostels known for cleanliness and fun vibes.
A hostel dorm bed might cost around €15-25 per night, making it easy to travel on a shoestring. Many hostels also offer private rooms at a fraction of hotel prices.
Beyond hostels, look for guesthouses or pensões (pensions), which are like family-run B&Bs and can be very affordable while giving you a chance to meet locals.
Airbnb is also widely available in cities, offering private rooms or entire apartments (just note that in peak season, prices can rise and popular areas book up fast).
Mid-Range Comfort
There are plenty of hotels and boutique inns that won’t break the bank. In cities, you can find modern hotels or charming renovated townhouses in the €60-100 per night range, depending on the season.
Coastal towns have many aparthotels and mid-range resorts perfect for families or couples.
For a more authentic stay, consider smaller towns: staying overnight in a place like Óbidos (a walled medieval village) or Guimarães (the “birthplace of Portugal”) can be reasonably priced and gives you a quiet, local experience away from big-city crowds.
You might find yourself in a centuries-old building with wooden beams or tiled walls, adding character to your trip.
Unique & Luxury Stays
To make your trip truly memorable, try Portugal’s special accommodation options.
One standout choice is the Pousadas de Portugal – a network of historic hotels set in castles, palaces, convents, and monasteries.
These converted heritage buildings offer a taste of royalty or monastic tranquility with modern comforts. (For example, you could sleep in a medieval castle tower or a former convent decorated with antiques!)
The pousadas are a luxury experience, but even if you don’t stay in one, it’s fun to visit for a meal or coffee if you’re nearby.
Other unique stays include quintas (rural farm or vineyard estates) where you can enjoy country life and wine tastings, or even houseboats on the Douro River in the wine country.
Beach lovers might opt for a seaside resort in the Algarve – there are many four and five-star resorts, especially around Albufeira, Vilamoura, and along the southern coast, with amenities like pools and spa facilities.
In major cities, international chains and design hotels are available for those seeking luxury.
Booking tips
It’s wise to book accommodation in advance during the peak summer season, as hotels in hot spots (like Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve beach towns) can fill up quickly from June to August.
Shoulder season travel (spring and fall) not only means lower prices but also more choices of where to stay. No matter where you are, Portuguese hospitality is warm.
Don’t hesitate to chat with your hosts – they often give the best local tips, whether it’s a hidden cafe nearby or a viewpoint only locals know.
Practical Travel Tips
Portugal is a friendly and safe country for travelers. In fact, in 2023, it was ranked the world’s 7th safest nation. Violent crime is very rare, and you can generally walk around even at night feeling secure.
That said, like anywhere touristy, you should stay alert in crowded spots for petty theft.
Keep your valuables secure and be mindful on packed trams or trains in Lisbon and Porto (pickpocketing is the most common issue, so don’t flash expensive items and consider a money belt or neck pouch for peace of mind).
If an emergency arises, the number to call is 112 (Europe’s universal emergency number).
Local Etiquette & Culture
The Portuguese are polite and somewhat reserved but very welcoming. A little effort with basic Portuguese phrases goes a long way – learn to say “olá” (hello), “por favor” (please), and “obrigado/obrigada” (thank you – male/female).
They will appreciate it, even if most younger folks in cities do speak some English.
Be respectful of their distinct language and identity: don’t assume Portuguese people are Spanish or speak Spanish to them – Portugal is proud of its own language and culture (using Spanish instead can be seen as disrespectful).
If someone speaks to you in Portuguese, a friendly reply in English with a smile is fine; many will switch gladly, but attempting Portuguese greetings is polite.
When greeting, a handshake is common in formal situations; among friends, women often exchange two cheek kisses (men usually handshake or hug if close).
Do’s and Don’ts
To help you blend in and have a smooth trip, keep these key do’s and don’ts in mind:
Do
Embrace the relaxed pace. Life in Portugal moves a bit slower – people take time to enjoy their coffee breaks and long lunches.
At restaurants, service might be leisurely, which is part of the culture (meals are meant to be savored, not rushed). Take it as an opportunity to chill rather than something to complain about.
Don’t
Expect everything to run like clockwork. Buses might be a few minutes late, and shop hours can vary (especially outside big cities, many small shops still close for a couple of hours in the early afternoon for a siesta-like break).
Just go with the flow – you’re on vacation time here.
Do
As mentioned, cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Sintra are hilly with cobbled streets. You’ll likely be walking a lot and climbing stairs or slopes. Your feet will thank you if you have good walking shoes or sneakers.
Also, pack layers; even in summer, evenings by the water can get breezy, and in shoulder seasons, the weather can switch between warm sun and cool rain.
Don’t
Underestimate the sun. In summer, especially in the Algarve or Alentejo, the sun is strong.
Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. If you go surfing or hiking, remember you can get sunburned even on cooler or cloudy days.
Also, don’t swim at unguarded beaches if the waves look rough – the Atlantic can have strong currents. Stick to beaches with lifeguards when possible and heed any warning flags.
Do
Carry some cash. While cards are widely accepted in cities, smaller towns, markets, or family-run restaurants might be cash only or have a minimum for cards. Euros are the currency.
There are plenty of ATMs (called Multibanco) around. Also, do keep coins for things like parking meters, public restrooms, or tipping street musicians if you like their fado performance.
Don’t
Feel obligated to tip big. Tipping in Portugal is not a big formal practice like in the U.S. For good service at restaurants, locals might round up the bill or leave a couple of euros.
A tip of around 5-10% is considered generous and certainly appreciated, but if you don’t tip, it’s not seen as offensive.
In taxis, you can just round up to the next euro. Hotel porters or service staff do welcome a small tip for help, but again, it’s discretionary.
Do
Try to plan ahead for major attractions. Popular sites like the Jerónimos Monastery, Pena Palace, or Livraria Lello can have long lines. It’s wise to buy tickets online in advance if possible, or go early in the day.
For the Pena Palace in Sintra, there’s even a timed entry system now – another reason to stay overnight in Sintra if you can, to visit at opening time with fewer crowds.
Don’t
Drive into city centers if you can avoid it. Old town streets are narrow, parking is scarce, and local drivers know their turf (and might be a bit bold in tight alleys!). Use public transport or park outside the center.
If you do drive, note that traffic laws are similar to the rest of Europe: wear seatbelts, don’t use your phone while driving, and the blood alcohol limit is low (and strictly enforced).
Highways have tolls – ask your rental agency about the electronic toll transponder to avoid hassle.
Do
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
As mentioned, petty theft can happen in tourist-heavy zones. In nightlife areas like Bairro Alto (Lisbon) or the Ribeira (Porto), keep an eye on your phone and wallet, especially late at night.
If someone approaches offering you drugs or dubious products (it happens in some party areas or downtown squares), just politely decline and walk away – recreational drug use is decriminalized here, but selling is illegal, and those sellers are best avoided.
Don’t
Worry too much – Portugal really is a very safe, inviting place. Use common sense and you’ll be fine. The locals are generally honest, helpful, and proud of their country.
If you need help or are lost, most people will try to assist (many speak enough English, and even if they don’t, they might try to find someone who can).
So don’t be afraid to interact with locals, whether asking for directions or recommendations for the best grilled sardines in town.
When to Visit
Portugal is great year-round, but there are some considerations.
Summer (June through August) is peak tourist season – expect hot days (around 23–30°C) and lots of visitors, especially at the beaches and major sights.
Spring and fall are often the best times to visit: April-May and September-October bring mild warm weather (18–22°C) and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities at a relaxed pace (and prices for accommodation are a bit lower than summer).
Winter (Nov-Feb) is the rainy season, especially in the north; Lisbon and Algarve stay fairly mild (10–15°C), and this can be a quiet, cozy time to experience Portugal if you don’t mind some showers – plus, it’s perfect for enjoying museums, hearty food, and fado music in intimate cafes.
Whenever you go, consider timing your trip around a local festival: for example, Lisbon’s Santo António festival in June features street parties and grilled sardines, and Porto’s São João festival (also in June) has fireworks and folks banging plastic hammers on heads in good fun!
Final Words
Portugal welcomes all kinds of travelers with open arms. It’s a country where you can wander medieval alleys one day, surf Atlantic waves the next, and sip wine overlooking vineyard terraces another.
It’s easy to get around, English is commonly understood in tourist areas, and the people are warm and proud to share their heritage.
Bom viagem (good travels)! And as the Portuguese say, até logo – see you soon, because once you experience Portugal, you may find yourself dreaming of the next visit!
