The real challenge lies in narrowing down your options and choosing where to go in Portugal. This captivating country boasts a wide array of attractions, such as endless sandy beaches, hidden coves with dramatic rock formations, quaint villages, cosmopolitan cities, mouthwatering cuisine, a rich cultural scene, and a vibrant music and nightlife scene.
Portugal’s thriving wine industry has also earned it a well-deserved reputation for its world-class port wine. What’s even more remarkable is that Portugal remains an incredibly budget-friendly destination compared to many other European countries.
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As you venture through this fascinating country, you will fall in love with the people, the laidback vibe and the beautiful azulejo ceramic tiles that adorn everything from train stations, and pavements to homes, and cathedrals, adding a touch of elegance to every corner. They’re an important part of Portuguese culture – and I got a little bit obsessed with them!
This post is all about where to go in Portugal
Porto: A Tale of Bridges and Barrels
Porto instantly won me over as soon as I set foot on its charming cobblestone streets! This city, recognized by UNESCO, is overflowing with culture, history, and an absurd number of things to discover and experience.
Just wander the steep cobbled streets of picturesque Ribeira and stroll along the riverside at night before dinner, taking in all the lights of the historic port wine area known as Vila Nova de Gaia across the river and couples dancing underneath the iconic Dom Luiz I. bridge and you will understand why it is easy to fall in love with this city.
Porto is a haven for lovers of wine, with its storied cellars offering a sip of the city’s famous export – port wine. Venture into a wine lodge for a tour and tasting and you will uncover the layered history with each glass.
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Gaia’s Wine Lodges
Head towards the direction of the “Caves do Vinho do Porto” sign and make your way across the Dom Luiz I bridge. Once you’ve crossed, you’ll find yourself in Vila Nova de Gaia – the land of port wine. Almost all port wine cellars offer guided tours and tastings.
We decided to visit Taylor’s, one of the larger port wine producers. We enjoyed a tasty lunch on their sunny terrace, which offered sweeping views of the river and the city. Afterwards, we explored their 300-year-old cellar and museum at our own pace, followed by a guided tasting. The cellar also had a beautiful garden where peacocks gracefully roamed the grounds.
Traditional Rabelo Boat Cruise
Hop on a traditional wooden Rabelo boat for a cruise along the Douro River and soak up the sights of the vibrant tiled buildings along the waterfront, with the cityscape towering in the background, the city’s famous bridges and Gaia with its wine cellars. These boats were used to transport wine barrels between Porto and the wine estates (quintas) of the Alto Douro wine region.
Douro Valley Day Drip
You can easily plan a day trip to the Douro Valley from Porto. For more information, check out the details on the GetYourGuide app.
STAY
Airbnb Apartments in Porto
During our trip to Porto, my friends and I stayed in a fantastic open-plan Airbnb apartment in the heart of the historic centre. It had a balcony with views of the Palacio da Bolsa and the Porto Wine Institute. Plus, it was just a short walk away from the lively riverfront.
EAT & DRINK
Brunch: Mercador Café – brunch café with great coffee, eggs, waffles, pancakes and plenty of health options.
Light dinner: Reitoria – delicious sharing boards and focaccia (a short walk from Base Porto).
Drinks: Base Porto – super chill outdoor bar right by the Clerigos Tower. At night, the garden is beautifully lit up and it’s the perfect spot to relax and have a few drinks.
Dinner: Sagardi Porto – restaurant serving Basque cuisine in atmospheric cellar-like surroundings.
Dancing: Ferro Bar – amazing bar tucked away up a cobblestoned hill. The vibe was so cool and relaxed, attracting a diverse crowd. The DJ was awesome, and we had such a great time that we ended up staying until dawn, and they practically had to kick us out!
Douro Valley: Rolling Hills and Ruby Reds
Heading east from Porto, we found ourselves in the lush Duoro Valley – Portugal’s wine region that has also earned UNESCO recognition. Known for its terraced vineyards etched into the landscape as far as the eye can see. The Douro River lazily winds its way through the valley, adding to its beauty. This region is the birthplace of port wine and the landscapes there are not just visually stunning, but also an integral part of the wine-making tradition.
Despite encountering a few challenges while navigating with the GPS and making a couple of wrong turns, we were amazed by the stunning scenery. However, I do wish we had stayed longer in the Douro Valley. I highly recommend allowing yourself a minimum of two to three nights to unwind by the pool and thoroughly discover the area and its vineyards.
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Douro River Boat Tour
Change your perspective and admire the valley from a different angle during a boat tour along the serene Douro. Get ready to have your mind blown by the stunning panoramas and relax as you as you glide along the still waters between vineyards and terraces, and catch a glimpse of tranquil rural life. You can take a boat tour from the pretty village of Pinhão.
STAY
Casa De Casal de Loivos
Our accommodation for the trip was the beautiful Casa De Casal de Loivos, a charming family manor house that dates back to 1658. Enjoy a glass of wine on their terrace or relax by their pool – the views of the Douro Valley from there are simply out of this world, you won’t believe your eyes!
EAT & DRINK
Casa do Arco by Douro Exclusive
The dining experience at Casa do Arco by Douro Exclusive was exceptional. The contemporary design of the restaurant, combined with the panoramic views of the wine terraces and vineyards, created a truly stunning atmosphere. With a limited number of tables, the service felt incredibly intimate, and the owner Marco took the time to explain each course and the perfect wine pairing.
It was an unforgettable experience. I finished the incredible meal with an aged port that tasted like Christmas, and a cheese board that I still daydream about to this day!
Tip: make a pitstop at Aveiro – The Venice of Portugal
En route to Lisbon from Douro, we stopped for lunch in Aveiro, also known as the “Venice of Portugal” due to the canals and colourful gondola-style boats that sail them. The small walkable city is very charming and you can wander the canals, winding streets and alleyways looking at Art Nouveau architecture and beautifully patterned tiles.
Lisbon: City of Seven Hills
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world and is truly something special. Every corner has a story, every alley a hidden gem. The number one tip: comfy shoes. The hills are no joke, but the views? Incredible! By climbing the steep hills, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas, most notably from Castelo de São Jorge.
The capital city is a melting pot of cultural offerings from museums to street art, with the historic tram 28 rattling through old neighbourhoods like Alfama and Graça.
Lisboetas embrace the night like no other, with a gastronomic and nightlife scene that spills into Bairro Alto’s cobbled lanes.
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Lisbon Walking Tour
Exploring the city on foot is the ultimate way to uncover its hidden gems. This way, you can stumble upon hidden alleys and satisfy your curiosity by seeing where those intriguing steps lead. It’s all part of the adventure to get a little lost. However, if you want to make sure you don’t miss out on anything, taking a walking tour is a great idea. I opted for a “free” tour with GuruWalk that focused on the alternative and offbeat side of Lisbon, including its vibrant street art scene – I’m so glad I did! We discovered sights and artwork that I would have never come across on my own.
Our journey took us to Graça, where ancient churches coexist with breathtaking viewpoints of the castle and the Tejo River. The tour also unveiled the city’s old walls adorned with captivating street art projects by both local and international artists. We were also shown the charming little oasis that is Vila Berta, a picturesque 19th-century industrial villa complex adorned with stunning Art Nouveau tiles and elegant wrought iron balconies – while the tour doesn’t have a fixed price, it is customary to tip the guide at the end if you enjoyed the tour.
Tip: Looking for a unique experience during your visit to Lisbon? Consider timing your trip with a music festival! One festival you shouldn’t miss is the Kalorama festival held at Parque da Bela Vista at the end of August. Alongside incredible Portuguese artists, you’ll also get the opportunity to see performances by renowned international acts such as Massive Attack, The Kills, and Peggy Gou!
Torres de Belem (Belem Tower) and Garden
This area is fantastic to explore! I took an Uber from my hotel in Principe Real to Belem Tower, and I was amazed by this 16th-century fort and Monument to the Discoveries located right by the waterfront. Continuing my adventure, I made my way to the stunning Jeronimos Monastery, with its incredibly intricate and bright white façade contrasting beautifully against the clear blue skies. And of course, I couldn’t resist stopping by the famous Pasteis de Belem for a mouthwatering pastel de nata (custard tart pastry), which I devoured under the shade of a tree in Jardim Afonso de Albuquerque.
LX Factory
LX Factory is this uber-cool converted Industrial complex in Alcântara that features stores, coffee shops, art spaces, parties, dining options, and markets.
Fado Music
Don’t forget to make time for a night of Fado music. Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies that echo through the dimly lit restaurants and bars of Alfama. These songs beautifully narrate tales of the sea, love, and heartbreak.
Relax and Enjoy the View
Rest your weary feet and take a break at one of the numerous viewpoints scattered throughout the city. Just a short distance from my hotel in Príncipe Real, you’ll find the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint. From there, you can soak in the panoramic views of the city and the castle. Take a moment to unwind by the fountain and let the soothing melodies of the musicians serenade you as you admire the scenery.
Treat yourself to a sunset sangria at Quiosque das Portas do Sol, just a stone’s throw away from Castelo de S. Jorge. Alternatively, you can enjoy the stunning vistas of Alfama from Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
Tip: take a day trip to Sintra where fairytales take architectural form
Looking for an escape from the city? Look no further than the mystical town of Sintra, just a short 40-minute train ride away from Lisbon! Sintra is a place where palaces take centre stage. Each palace and castle showcases an eclectic blend of design, but the Pena Palace steals the show with its vibrant colours and Romanticist flair, resembling something straight out of a Disney movie.
Don’t forget to explore the Royal Gardens and the charming pastel-coloured village, where time seems to stand still.
Tip: the hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to see the sights in Sintra if you only have a few hours
Tip: have lunch in the seaside town of Azenhas do Mar
I highly recommend taking a taxi from Sintra to the stunning seaside town of Azenhas do Mar for lunch at either Agua e Sal or Restaurante Azenhas do Mar, the latter is right on the seafront.
STAY
Casa do Jasmim Boutique Guesthouse
Tucked away in the charming streets of the hip Príncipe Real neighbourhood in Lisbon, Casa do Jasmim Boutique Guesthouse captures the true essence of Portuguese hospitality. This hidden treasure is a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comfort with unique vintage and artistic touches. Despite its peaceful location, it remains conveniently located within walking distance of the must-see districts of Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Baixa.
Take a moment to unwind on the guesthouse’s quiet terrace and enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast before heading out to explore the area’s gardens, trendy shops and restaurants.
Surrounding Casa do Jasmim are some of Lisbon’s most picturesque squares, such as Jardim do Príncipe Real with its colossal centuries-old juniper tree, Praça das Flores and Praça da Alegria. Plus, the Botanical Garden of Lisbon is a short walk away.
Tip: book a room with a balcony
EAT & DRINK
Timeout Market
The Timeout Market is a food lover’s dream come true! This massive food hall offers a wide variety of Portuguese and international cuisine. The buzzing atmosphere adds to the cool vibe as you attempt to sample as many mouthwatering dishes as possible. One of the best parts is the communal seating arrangement on long trestle tables, it’s impossible not to strike up a conversation with your fellow diners from all over the globe.
A Ginjinha
Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the iconic hole-in-the-wall Ginjinha bar where you can treat yourself to a revitalizing shot of this famous sweet Portuguese liqueur with tangy sour cherries! It’s on Largo São Domingos which is a short walk from Rossio station.
Brunch: Heim Café – hip cafe in Santos neighbourhood with delicious healthy brunch options.
Dinner: Café Janis – lively cafe, also a popular brunch spot, with plenty of vegetarian options.
Dinner: Coya Taco – buzzing Mexican restaurant in Principe Real with great veggie tacos and margaritas!
Drinks: Farès – Middle Eastern tavern in Bairro Alto for cocktails.
Dancing: Village Underground – cool live music venue made from recycled shipping containers.
From the port wine delights of Porto and the rolling terraced Douro hills to the dreamy landscapes of Sintra and the vibrant nightlife of Lisbon, Portugal is a tapestry of unforgettable experiences. Pack your bags, bring an appetite for adventure (and pastel de nata), and set your sights on this Iberian gem. Boa viagem!
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