Things to Do In Portugal

Portugal, nestled on the Iberian Peninsula, is a sun-kissed gem that enchants with its ancient cities, golden beaches, and vibrant culture. From exploring opulent palaces and charming villages to surfing world-class waves and delving into delicious cuisine, Portugal offers something for every kind of traveler.

Here are some top things to do in this captivating land:

Embrace History and Culture:

  • Wander through Lisbon’s cobbled streets: Explore the vibrant capital of Lisbon, where ancient trams climb steep hills and colorful houses line narrow lanes. Visit the São Jorge Castle, marvel at the Jerónimos Monastery, and discover the opulent Royal Palace of Ajuda.
  • Step back in time in Sintra: Escape to the fairytale village of Sintra, nestled in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains. Explore the Pena National Palace, a kaleidoscope of architectural styles, wander through the Quinta da Regaleira with its cryptic gardens, and discover the Moorish Castle.
  • Sail the Douro Valley: Cruise down the scenic Douro River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the terraced vineyards that produce Portugal’s famed port wine. Visit charming riverside towns, sample local wines in ancient cellars, and soak up the tranquility of the valley.

Indulge in Sun, Sea, and Sand:

  • Relax on the Algarve’s golden beaches: Escape to the Algarve, a paradise of golden sands and turquoise waters. Sunbathe on Praia da Marinha, explore hidden coves in Ponta da Piedade, or catch some waves on Praia do Guincho.
  • Surf world-class waves: Portugal is a surfer’s paradise, with waves for all levels along its expansive coastline. Ride the legendary breaks of Nazaré, test your skills at Ericeira, or learn to surf in Sagres.
  • Dive into underwater wonders: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks of the Azores Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Snorkel with dolphins, encounter manta rays, and discover the hidden beauty of the underwater world.

Experience Local Delights:

  • Savor Portuguese cuisine: Embark on a culinary journey and discover the flavors of Portuguese cuisine. Indulge in fresh seafood like grilled sardines and bacalhau (salted cod), try traditional dishes like francesinha (a meat sandwich), and pair it all with a glass of vinho verde (green wine).
  • Learn to cook Portuguese food: Take a cooking class and learn the secrets of preparing traditional Portuguese dishes. Master the art of making bacalhau, francesinha, and other local favorites, and bring the flavors of Portugal back home with you.
  • Attend a lively festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Portugal by attending a traditional festival. Witness the colorful costumes and lively parades of the Festa de São João (St. John’s Festival), join the revelry of the Carnaval da Madeira (Madeira Carnival), or celebrate the grape harvest with the Festa das Vindimas (Wine Harvest Festival).

Bonus Tips:

  • The best time to visit Portugal depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) offer warm weather and sunshine, ideal for beach activities. However, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) brings milder weather in the south.
  • Portuguese is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will go a long way.
  • The euro (€) is the official currency.
  • Tipping is not expected, but a small gratuity is appreciated for good service.