Portugal Travel Guide

Rooftop and ocean view of Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal has stunning beaches, beautiful cities, delicious food and wine, and a friendly atmosphere. It is also affordable and commonly ranked one of the safest countries in the world, making it a great destination for solo and female travelers. I went last year (2022) and loved it so much, I returned again this year (2023)! Keep reading this Portugal Travel Guide for tips to help you plan your trip!

Table Of Contents

Travel Tips for Portugal
Top Cities to Travel to in Portugal
Top Things to Do in Portugal
Portugal Travel Itinerary

Travel Tips for Portugal

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June-August) is the peak season, and has the best weather, but brings the largest crowds and highest prices. As a lover of warm weather and sunshine, this is my favorite time to visit.

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-October) have good weather, moderate crowds, and moderate prices.

Winter (November-February) is the best time for budget travel.

Entry Requirements

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is set to launch in 2024 and will require all visitors who currently travel to Europe visa-free (including U.S. citizens) to apply for travel authorization and receive approval prior to their departure. The application costs €7 and the authorization process could take up to 96 hours. Once approved, authorization will be valid for multiple entries for three years, or until the traveler’s passport expires.

Language

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal. In tourist destinations, English is commonly spoken.

Currency

The local currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Transportation

Portugal has a great public transportation system with affordable trains and buses within the country and to other European countries.

Taxis and Uber are available in larger cities.

Flights are generally faster but more expensive than public transportation within mainland Portugal, but the best way to go to the Azores.

Top Cities to Travel to in Portugal

Lisbon

Porto

Lagoa das Sete Cidades, Azores, Portugal

Sao Miguel

Top Things to Do in Portugal

1. Explore Lisbon

Lisbon is a charming city with beautiful architecture and history. Visit the Belem Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, and Lisbon Cathedral. Watch the sunset from one of the many rooftops, eat delicious (and affordable) food, and listen to traditional Fado music.

2. Island Hop in the Azores.

The Azores is an archipelago consisting of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,500 km from Lisbon. All of the islands offer plenty of natural beauty and a relaxed pace. The islands are ideal have hiking and gorgeous scenery, black sand beaches, scuba diving, wine tasting, and tea and pineapple plantations!

3. Wander Around Porto.

Walk around the narrow streets leading to the scenic Duoro River. Take a river cruise, have a bite to eat at one of the cafes, and visit the museums.

4. Wine Taste in the Duoro Valley.

Explore the many vineyards in the Duoro Valley. Try the vino verde and port wine!

5. Soak Up the Sun in Lagos.

Enjoy the sunshine, beaches, and parties all summer in Lagos.

6. Visit Sintra.

Don’t miss the enchanting palaces and landscapes in Sintra, which is only an hour by train from Lisbon.

Portugal Travel Itinerary

Read the below for a detailed 10 day Portugal travel itinerary.

Portugal 10 Day Travel Itinerary

October 19, 2023 No Comments

Portugal 10 Day Travel Itinerary Portugal is an amazing country, with delicious and affordable food…

Last traveled: June 2023