PORTUGAL TRAVEL GUIDE
In the south west corner of Europe, where the sun meets the sea lies a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, unique customs and delicious cuisine. Welcome to Portugal.
This travel guide to Portugal will prepare you for a trip to this wonderful country. From the historic streets of Lisbon, where Fado music serenades your senses, to the timeless beauty of Porto's riverside charm and the sun-soaked shores of the Algarve, Portugal is a place you must visit.
Picture this: you've ventured into the enchanting Douro Valley, a place where vineyards stretch out along the banks of the magnificent Douro River. Here, you're in for a real treat because this is one of the planet's most time-honored wine regions. Imagine sipping on the velvety richness of Port wine, letting its flavors dance on your palate while the stunning natural scenery surrounds you.
And as you journey through Portugal, you'll find ancient castles and historic palaces waiting to share their stories with you. Each of these remarkable structures carries whispers of eras long gone by, adding a touch of historical magic to your adventure. It's like stepping back in time and uncovering the secrets of Portugal's past, all while savoring the splendid tastes and sights of this captivating country.
This guide will tell you about all the gems and adventures that turn Portugal into a wanderer's paradise. Whether you're someone who goes gaga for art, a foodie always on the hunt for the next delicious bite, a nature enthusiast eager to explore the great outdoors, or a history buff fascinated by tales from the past, Portugal is here to steal your heart and capture your spirit.
This country's diverse landscapes and its treasure trove of cultural marvels are bound to leave you absolutely smitten. So, buckle up and let's dive into the extraordinary world of Portugal. Your next unforgettable adventure awaits!
PORTUGAL GENERAL INFO
Portugal lies in Southwestern Europe. Portugal is located along the Atlantic ocean and borders Spain in the country's east.
A flight to Lisbon takes roughly 3 hours from London/England or 8.5 hours from New York/USA.
Portugal lies on the Iberian Peninsula. The country borders the Atlantic Ocean in the West and South.
The northern parts of Portugal are mountainous, whereas the landscape in southern Portugal is dominated by rolling hills. The mild Mediterranean climate offers ideal conditions for farming.
The Azores and Madeira islands in the Atlantic Ocean off the African coastline belong to Portugal. These are two autonomous regions of Portugal.
HOW TO GET TO PORTUGAL
Getting to Portugal is relatively easy, as the country is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world by air, land, and sea. Here are some common ways to reach Portugal
BY ROAD
If you're driving, you can access Portugal from Spain through various border crossings. The A22 motorway connects the Algarve region to Spain.
BY RAIL
You can travel to Portugal by train from neighbouring European countries. High-speed trains like the Alfa Pendular connect Portugal to Spain, and international trains like the Lusitânia Comboio Hotel link Lisbon to Madrid.
BY AIR
Portugal has several international airports, with Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) and Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto (OPO) being the largest and most frequently used. Other major airports include Faro Airport (FAO) in the Algarve and João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in the Azores.
Various international and Portuguese airlines operate flights to Portugal. TAP Air Portugal is the national carrier and offers extensive connections.
BY BOAT
Several ferry services and cruise ships visit Portuguese ports. Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira are common cruise destinations. Ferries from Spain also serve the Algarve region.
Before your trip, it's advisable to check the latest travel regulations and requirements, especially in light of any updates related to border crossings, visa policies, and health guidelines. Portugal's accessibility and connectivity make it a great destination for travellers from around the world.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PORTUGAL
The best time to visit Portugal depends on your preferences and the type of experience you're seeking, as the country offers something special throughout the year, although most people do visit Portugal in the summer. Here's a breakdown of the seasons and the advantages they offer:
Spring (March to May):
Mild Weather: Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities, city exploration, and hiking.
Festivals: Enjoy traditional festivals like Easter processions and the Fado music festival in Lisbon.
Summer (June to August):
Beach Season: The Algarve and other coastal regions are at their best, making it perfect for beach lovers.
Festivals: Summertime brings numerous music and cultural festivals, and cities come alive with outdoor events.
High Tourist Season: Keep in mind that summer is peak tourist season, so popular destinations can be crowded.
Autumn (September to November):
Mild Weather: Similar to spring, autumn offers comfortable temperatures and is a great time for outdoor activities.
Wine Harvest: September is the grape harvest season, and it's an excellent time to visit wine regions like the Douro Valley.
Lower Crowds: As the summer crowds diminish, you can explore popular spots with more ease.
Winter (December to February):
Mild Climate: Portugal's winter is relatively mild, making it a pleasant destination for those seeking a break from harsh winter weather.
Cultural Experiences: You can explore cities, enjoy cultural events, and visit historical sites with fewer tourists.
Carnival: February hosts colorful Carnival celebrations in various cities, providing a unique cultural experience.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Portugal depends on your interests. If you prefer pleasant weather and outdoor activities, spring and autumn are excellent choices. Summer is perfect for beachgoers and festival enthusiasts, while winter offers a quieter and more cultural experience. Consider your preferences and plan accordingly to make the most of your visit to this beautiful country.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN PORTUGAL RIGHT NOW?
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO IN PORTUGAL
Explore the Historic Streets of Lisbon
Visit Porto and its Wine Cellars
Relax on the Algarve Beaches
Discover the fairytale-like palaces of Sintra -Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle
Hike the Azores and Madeira
Try local dishes like Bacalhau à Brás (salted codfish), Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts), and fresh seafood
Discover the world's oldest wine region - Douro Valley
Explore the historic University of Coimbra, known for its stunning Joanina Library and the Royal Palace.
Experience the soulful Fado music in Lisbon's Fado houses
Visit the wild and rugged western coast of Portugal
ACCOMODATION IN PORTUGAL
coming soon
WHERE TO STAY PORTUGAL
Lisbon
Portugal's capital and largest city, Lisbon is a vibrant and diverse metropolis. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving food scene, it's a great base for exploring the country. Must-See: Alfama, Belém, and the vibrant Bairro Alto district.
Porto
Located in the north, Porto is famous for its picturesque riverside, port wine cellars, and historic architecture. It's a city that oozes charm and is perfect for those who appreciate cultural experiences. Must-See: Ribeira, Dom Luís I Bridge, and the Livraria Lello bookstore.
Faro
In the Algarve region, Faro is a gateway to the stunning southern coast. It's a serene coastal town with a historical old town and proximity to beautiful beaches. Must-See: Faro's Old Town, Faro Cathedral, and the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
Sintra
Sintra, a short drive from Lisbon, offers a fairytale setting with its palaces, gardens, and lush hills. It's an ideal choice for a romantic and picturesque escape. Must-See: Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle.
EATING IN PORTUGAL
Olive oil, onions, garlic and seafood are dominant in the Portuguese cuisine. Fresh fruits and vegetables are plentiful. Pears, melons, apples, plums, grapes and figs are among the most common fruits while nuts and almonds are used in many dishes too.
Here are my top choices of food to try when in Portugal.
Bacalhau à Brás
Bacalhau, or salted codfish, is an essential ingredient in Portuguese cuisine. Bacalhau à Brás is a dish that features shredded codfish mixed with finely chopped onions and straw fries, bound together with scrambled eggs. It's a comfort food favorite.
Pastéis de Nata
These delectable custard tarts are a Portuguese pastry icon. Made from flaky puff pastry and filled with a creamy custard, they are typically sprinkled with a touch of cinnamon and powdered sugar. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a coffee in a local café.
Arroz de Marisco
Seafood lovers will adore Arroz de Marisco, a flavorful Portuguese seafood rice dish. It's a rich and aromatic stew made with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, clams, and mussels, cooked with rice and saffron, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal.
Francesinha
Hailing from Porto, the Francesinha is a hearty and indulgent sandwich. It consists of layers of cured meats, steak, and linguiça sausage, covered with melted cheese, and drenched in a spicy tomato and beer sauce. It's typically served with French fries and is a true Portuguese delight.
PORTUGAL ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to Portugal? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans in the Portugal.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to the Portugal using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for the Portugal and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from Lisbon Airport
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in the Portugal on Booking.com
CAR HIRE : Book your rental car from RentalCars.com for great service and prices
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your bus tickets and other transport once you’re in the Portugal but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy these tickets online through Bookaway
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in the Portugal on Viator or Get Your Guide.
PORTUGAL GUIDEBOOK : Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet Guidebook for Portugal for a good read and to help you plan your trip.
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