The most amazing travel guide to Portugal (2025)
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Portugal, a country with a rich history and stunning landscapes, is undoubtedly the ideal destination in every traveler's mind. Whether you are a food lover, a cultural explorer, or a nature lover, Portugal can fulfill all your expectations. From the passionate Lisbon to the romantic Porto, every corner contains unique charm and stories!
1. Preparing for your trip to Portugal
1.1. Visa and Passport
Passport check: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and has at least two blank pages.
Visa Application
: If you are not an EU citizen, you need to apply for a Schengen visa. Preparation materials include:
- Completed visa application form (available online).
- Two recent passport-size photographs (in accordance with the application requirements).
- Proof of travel insurance.
- Confirmation of round-trip air ticket booking (virtual tickets can be used).
- Proof of hotel booking (can use Booking.com confirmation email).
1.2. Airline ticket reservation
- Search platform: Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare airfares.
- Advance booking: It is recommended to book three months in advance and choose the flights with lower prices.
- Flight Selection: Choose direct flights or flights with reasonable connection times to avoid long waits.
1.3. Accommodation choices
City center hotels
: Choose a hotel in Lisbon and Porto that is close to a metro station, such as:
- Altis Avenida Hotel in Lisbon
- HF Tuela Porto in Porto.
B&B options: use Airbnb to find a local B&B to ensure good reviews and a safe environment.
Budget hostels: for backpackers, choose a youth hostel such as HI Hostel Lisbon, which usually offers a kitchen and communal space for activities.
1.4. Itinerary planning
Create a detailed itinerary
: Example:
- Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon, check into hotel, visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
- Day 2: tour of the Alfama district by tram 28, lunch and then to St. George's Castle.
- Day 3: travel by train to Sintra, visit the Pena Palace and return to Lisbon in the evening.
- Day 4: travel by train to Porto, visit the Lero bookstore and the Porto Cathedral.
Transportation arrangements: use Google Maps to plan transportation for each leg of the journey.
1.5. Transportation
- Public Transportation Card: Purchase the “Lisboa Card” in Lisbon and enjoy unlimited rides on the metro, buses and trams, as well as discounts on several attractions.
- Train Tickets: Purchase your intercity train tickets in advance on the Comboios de Portugal website, choosing second class seats.
- Rental Cars: If planning to drive yourself, book in advance on Rentalcars.com or Kayak and make sure you know the rules of the road in Portugal (e.g., driving on the right side of the road).
1.6. Internet preparation
- It is recommended to always have a travel esim ready for a trip to Portugal, PhoneSIMGo has an esim package designed for traveling tourists.
1.7. learn about the local culture
- Basic phrases: Learn a few Portuguese phrases such as “Bom dia” (good morning), “Por favor” (please), “Desculpe” (Excuse me).
- Common sense of etiquette: when eating in a restaurant, don't point your finger at people while you are eating, and usually leave a tip (10%) at the checkout.
1.8. Travel Insurance
- Purchase insurance: Choose the right travel insurance and make sure it includes coverage for medical, accident, lost luggage, etc. It can be purchased through InsureMyTrip or World Nomads.
2. Travel Highlights
2.1. History meets culture
The Old Charm of Lisbon
- Alfama District: the oldest district in Lisbon, Alfama is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. Here you can stroll through the charming alleys, enjoy the many traditional fado restaurants and experience Portuguese music and culture.
- Monastery of Gerónimos: This magnificent monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases Portugal's maritime history and Manueline-style architecture. Standing in front of the Monastery, you can feel the weight of history and the depth of culture.
Porto's winemaking culture
- Port Wine: Porto is the home of the world-famous Port wine. Many wineries offer wine tasting experiences, where you can taste various flavors of port wine and learn about its brewing process and historical background on the banks of the beautiful Douro River. This is not only a taste bud treat, but also a cultural immersion.
2.2. Breathtaking natural landscapes
Beaches of the Algarve
- Golden sandy beaches and cliffs: the Algarve is one of Portugal's most popular vacation destinations, known for its golden sandy beaches and magnificent coastline. You can enjoy the sun in Praia da Marinha or experience water sports such as surfing and snorkeling in Albufeira.
- NATURAL PARKS: The Algarve is not only home to beautiful beaches, but also to several natural parks, such as the South-West Alentejo Natural Park, for hiking and bird watching.
The mountains and castles of Sintra
- Pena Palace & Moorish Castle: Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its magnificent mountains and enchanting palaces. The Pena Palace is fairytale-like, colorful and sits on top of a mountain overlooking the surrounding forests and valleys. The Moorish Castle, on the other hand, offers excellent panoramic views that are breathtaking.
2.3. A rich gastronomic experience
authentic Portuguese cuisine
- Feast of Seafood: Portugal is famous for its fresh seafood, especially Bacalao (salted cod) and various fish dishes. A hearty seafood meal in a seaside restaurant will be a highlight of your trip.
- Desserts & Snacks: Don't forget to try the Portuguese egg tarts (Pastéis de Nata), which are sweet and creamy pies that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, and are very popular. There are also numerous tapas (snacks) such as fried calamari and marinated olives for sharing with friends.
Wine Tours
- Douro Valley: This is one of the birthplaces of wine, known for its unique way of growing grapes and its beautiful landscape. Here, you can participate in winery wine tasting events to learn about the flavors and pairings of different wines.
2.4. Moving traditions and festivals
Fado Music
- Fado performances in Alfama: Fado is a traditional form of Portuguese music with deeply moving melodies that express thoughts and emotions about life. In Alfama's restaurants, you can enjoy a meal while watching a moving fado performance and experiencing the unique cultural charm of Portugal.
Traditional Festivals
- St. Anthony's Day: Every year in June, Lisbon celebrates the grand St. Anthony's Day with colorful decorations and lively streets. People will gather in the streets to enjoy food, music and dance, and feel the warmth and unity of the locals.
3. Recommended Transportation Methods for Traveling in Portugal
3.1 Public transportation system
Portugal has a well-developed public transportation system, which mainly consists of buses, metros and trams. In large cities such as Lisbon and Porto, you can easily use these means of transportation with reasonable fares and frequent schedules.
3.2. Trains
Trains are ideal for traveling between cities in Portugal. The national railroad company, Comboios de Portugal, offers convenient services connecting major cities such as Lisbon, Porto and Sintra. Discounts are often available for tickets purchased in advance.
3.3. Renting a car
Renting a car is a good option if you wish to explore the Portuguese countryside or coastal areas freely. Portugal's roads are in good condition and a car can make it easy to visit places that are not easily accessible.
3.4. Shared taxi services
Shared taxi services such as Uber and Bolt are very popular in the cities, offering convenient and fast travel options. The fares are relatively reasonable, especially when traveling at night or with luggage.
3.5. Bicycles
Bicycle rental services are becoming increasingly popular in some cities, especially Lisbon and Porto. Exploring the city by bicycle is not only environmentally friendly, but also allows you to experience the local culture in a more in-depth way.
3.6. Boat trips
In some cities, such as Porto and Lisbon, boat trips are a unique way to get around. Cruise ships offer beautiful views of the coastline, especially on the Douro and Tahoe rivers.
4. Recommended Portuguese Cuisine
4.1 Portuguese Egg Tarts (Pastéis de Nata) in Lisbon
After visiting the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, don't miss the Portuguese egg tarts at the “Pastéis de Belém” cafe. The tarts are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, and with a cup of strong coffee, they are the perfect travel break.
4.2. Salt cod (Bacalhau) in Sintra
After visiting Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle in Sintra, we recommend trying the salted cod at a local restaurant. This classic Portuguese dish can be prepared in a variety of ways and with fresh local side dishes, it is sure to give you a taste of Portugal.
4.3. Paella in Porto (Arroz de Marisco)
A paella is the perfect meal to enjoy after visiting the wineries along the Douro River in Porto. This dish is usually prepared with fresh shrimp, mussels and squid and is intoxicatingly delicious.
4.4. Fried Calamari (Lulas Fritas) in the Algarve
After relaxing on the sunny beaches of the Algarve, don't forget to try the local fried calamari. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the calamari is served with a lemon and garlic sauce, making it an absolute classic for beach food.
4.5. Cured Olives (Azeitonas) in Coimbra
While strolling through Coimbra's university town, find a small bar and order a plate of marinated olives as an appetizer. Pair them with a local wine for a tasty meal with a strong sense of local flavor.
4.6. Wines of the Douro Valley (Vinho)
After visiting the vineyards of the Douro Valley, you certainly can't miss tasting port and local wines. The wineries usually offer a wine tasting experience so you can enjoy the wine and learn about the winemaking process at the same time.
4.7. Portuguese Sausage (Chouriço) in Lisbon
Trying the local Portuguese sausages is an essential experience in Lisbon's traditional markets. Many stalls offer chouriço grilled over a fire, which is crispy on the outside and aromatic on the inside, making it perfect for sharing with friends.
5. Portuguese Cultural Characteristics
5.1. Social Etiquette
- Mode of Greeting: Portuguese people usually greet each other with a handshake for the first time, and after getting acquainted they use a kiss on the cheek, usually twice (left then right).
- Appellations: In formal situations, the use of polite titles (e.g. “Senhor” or “Senhora”) is necessary, especially when talking to elders or people you don't know very well.
5.2. Dining habits
- Meal times: The Portuguese eat late, with dinner usually being served between 8pm and 10pm. When you are invited to dinner, show your appreciation and try not to refuse.
- Wine and Drinks: When dining, the Portuguese often accompany their meals with wine, especially port and local red wines. Politeness is key when accepting a drink.
5.3. Traditional Festivals
- Fado Music: Fado is a traditional Portuguese form of music that expresses feelings about life and love. Many restaurants will arrange fado performances, so travelers can experience this unique music while enjoying a meal.
- Festivals: St. Anthony's Day in June and St. João's Day in June are important celebrations in Lisbon and Porto, with parades and festivals in the streets, and participating in them will give you a deeper experience of the local culture.
5.4. Be polite
- Be polite and respectful when talking to people, especially when meeting them for the first time. Using polite phrases such as “por favor” (please) and “obrigado/a” (thank you) will make you seem friendlier.
5.5. Respect for personal space
- Portuguese people usually maintain an appropriate amount of personal space, but become closer as they become acquainted. When meeting for the first time, keep an appropriate distance and wait for the relationship to deepen before engaging in physical contact.
5.6. Avoid Sensitive Topics
- When talking to locals, try to avoid sensitive topics such as politics and religion. Focusing on lighter conversations such as the weather, culture or travel experiences will make it easier to build a good relationship.
5.7. Learning Basic Portuguese
- Learning some basic Portuguese phrases such as greetings, thank yous and goodbyes will help you communicate better with locals and show your respect for their culture.
6. Travel Safety in Portugal
6.1. Emergency Service Numbers
- Police: 112 For reporting crime, harassment or any emergency requiring police intervention.
- Medical assistance: 112 If medical assistance or first aid is required, call the same number and the operator will arrange for emergency services.
- Fire: 112 This number can also be dialed for any fire or situation requiring fire intervention.
6.2. Medical services
- Hospitals and clinics: In large cities such as Lisbon and Porto, there are many hospitals offering emergency services. It is advisable to look up information on the nearest hospital in your location before traveling.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies (Farmácia) can be found in many places in Portugal and are usually open from 9:00 to 19:00 Monday through Friday, with some pharmacies also open on weekends. Pharmacists can provide basic health advice and common medications.
7. Local weather in Portugal
7.1. Spring (March to May)
Weather Features
- Temperature: Temperatures rise gradually, usually between 12°C and 22°C.
- Precipitation: There may be some rain in the early part of spring, especially in March, but the weather becomes drier as the season progresses.
Places to travel
- Lisbon: spring is the ideal time to visit the capital, with parks and gardens beginning to bloom, ideal for strolling through the Alfama and Belém districts and enjoying the warm sunshine.
- Sintra: Sintra enjoys a pleasant climate in spring, with visits to the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, and the surrounding nature is at its most stunning at this time of year.
7.2. Summer (June to August)
Weather characteristics
- Temperature : Temperatures are generally high, usually between 25°C and 35°C, especially in the south.
- Precipitation: Summer is dry with little rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Places to travel
- Algarve: this region is famous for its golden sandy beaches and is a favorite summer resort. You can enjoy the sun, swimming and various water sports.
- Porto: Despite the warmer temperatures, the sea breeze in Porto makes for very pleasant summer evenings. You can enjoy port wine in riverside bars and take part in summer cultural events.
7.3. Fall (September to November)
Weather characteristics
- Temperatures : Temperatures gradually drop, usually between 15°C and 25°C.
- Precipitation: The weather is drier at the start of fall, with more rainfall possible in November.
Good places to travel
- Douro Valley: Autumn is grape harvesting season, and the colorful vineyards of the Douro Valley are perfect for wine tasting tours and experiencing local harvest celebrations.
- Lisbon: relatively few tourists at this time of year, perfect for exploring the city's museums, historic districts and gastronomy.
7.4. Winter (December through February)
Weather characteristics
- Temperature: Temperatures are cooler, usually between 5°C and 15°C, and can be colder in the northern regions.
- Precipitation: Winter is the rainy season in Portugal, especially in the north.
Places to travel
- Lisbon and Porto: although the weather is colder, the cities have a very festive atmosphere, especially during the Christmas season when the streets are decorated with beautiful lights and the markets are rich in gastronomy.
- Algarve: despite the winter season, the climate in the Algarve is relatively mild, making it ideal for walking on the beach or enjoying the local spas.
Conclusion
Portugal is a fascinating country that combines history, culture and nature. It is suitable for all types of travelers. With this guide, I hope you can better plan your trip and enjoy every moment of Portugal. No matter how you choose to visit this beautiful country, you will be rewarded with unforgettable memories and experiences. Are you ready? Let's embark on a journey to explore Portugal together!