Wondering if Portugal should be your next destination? From my experience, Portugal is a dream destination, with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for golden beaches of the Algarve, the historic streets of Lisbon, or the vineyards of the Douro Valley, Portugal has something for every traveler. But when is the best time to visit? What are the must-do activities? And how can you make your trip seamless? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know for an unforgettable Portugal Travel experience!
Best Time to Visit Portugal
Portugal Travel can be a great experience year-round. With average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C throughout the year, this is a place you can enjoy whenever!
Spring (March-May)
Spring is a great time to explore Portugal if you like mild weather and fewer crowds. March can still be a bit cold and rainy but April and May are perfect months to travel to Portugal. The blooming landscapes make beautiful scenery and the cooler weather is perfect for exploring cities without overheating. The weather varies from 10°C (March) to 23°C (May). You will still want to carry a jacket for morning and evening but you should be fine with a cami mid-day (and will, in fact, appreciate it in the sun).
However, if you are traveling to Portugal for the beach and the ocean, note that the water will still be freezing at that time. Also, March and April will still have colder days where hanging out on the beach won’t be as comfortable. If you want to enjoy the beach aim towards May.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the peak season in Portugal. With temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C, this time of the year is for beachgoers and festival lovers. On the coast, the morning can be overcast but it will generally clear up for a beautiful blue sky for the rest of the day.
However, the main cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos can get quite crowded. It is worth exploring and considering lesser-known cities if you are aiming to visit in summer. Also, with Lisbon and Porto filled with hills, exploring these cities during the heat of the summer can get challenging and uncomfortable.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is a perfect time for wine lovers and those seeking a quieter experience with pleasant weather. There will generally be fewer tourists and better prices – mainly in October and November. September is still pretty hot with weather around 25°C. October will still have nice days with temperatures from 20°C to 25°C but gets more unpredictable with potential rain. In November, it gets cooler with temperatures around 15°C to 20°C.
You might also get the chance to see the changing leaves’ color if you go during autumn. Consider exploring national parks like Serra da Estrela and Peneda-Gerês during this season for a beautiful landscape. However, with the busy season coming to an end, some activities might be suspended for winter (wine tours, boat tours, etc.). It is a good idea to check beforehand if everything you want to do will still be accessible especially if travelling in November.
Winter (December – February)
Winter comes with colder weather and rain. However, it is milder than my usual Canadian winter. With temperatures from 7°C to 12°C, it can still be a great time to explore the cities, enjoy local cuisine, and experience fewer tourists. It is also during that season that you can find the best deals for hotels and plane tickets. Also, the Carnival is during the month a February which can be an incredible event to experience. While there is still a lot to see during winter, avoid this season if you are looking for beach vacation and water activities. Most of the seasonal activities like boat tours and kayak will be closed for the season.
It is considered to be the rainy season from November to March, but the weather varies throughout the season. You can have nonstop rainfalls for a few days and then blue skies and comfortable temperatures for the following days. Pack a rain jacket and umbrella if visiting during winter and check the weather channel before traveling.
Types of Activities to Do in Portugal
Portugal has so much to offer! From cities to national parks and beaches, there are activities for every type of traveler.
Explore Historic Cities
If you like wandering around cities, discovering small cafes and shops, and getting lost in winding streets, Portugal will not disappoint! There are so many cities to discover from to very known Lisbon and Porto and the slightly less popular Sintra, Aveiro and Braga.
Lisbon
Portugal’s vibrant capital is known for its historic neighborhoods, iconic yellow trams, and landmarks like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Lisbon has many neighborhoods to explore and great places to eat (cafés, restaurants, markets, etc.). Many day trips can be done from Lisbon like Cascais or Sintra.
Porto
Famous for its stunning riverside views, historic Ribeira district, and world-renowned port wine cellars. Watch the most beautiful sunsets at popular spots like Jardim do Morro, Serra do Pilar Monastery, and Foz do Douro, or take a boat tour on the river. It is also a great destination to explore the Douro Valley.
Sintra
A fairytale town with stunning palaces, including the colorful Pena Palace, the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish castle. Save some time to walk around the historical center, enjoy a coffee and pastries.
Aveiro
Often called the “Venice of Portugal,” this city features picturesque canals, colorful boats, and beautiful architecture. This town is on the smaller side but offers tons of great restaurants and shops. Aim to visit during anything from Thursday to Saturday for more options of restaurants and nightlife.
Braga
One of Portugal’s oldest cities, known for its churches, architecture, and the magnificent Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. Walk around the historical center, eat on a terrace, pass by the Palacio da Radio, and walk through beautiful gardens; these are the perfect traveling days.
Beach Escapes
Looking for a Portugal travel experience where you can hang out at the beach, enjoy the sun, and maybe do a little bit of surfing or kayaking? Portugal has beautiful places for you: Algarve, Cascais, Ericeira, Madeira – You will find your gem.
Algarve
Known for its breathtaking coastline, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs, the Algarve is a top destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Visit the historical center of Lagos for shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Spend your day beach hopping. Go kayaking through caves and turquoise water. Take a stroll on the boardwalk for a stunning view of Ponta da Piedade. Options are endless!
Cascais
A charming coastal town near Lisbon, famous for its sandy beaches, scenic promenade, and vibrant marina. Hang out at the marina, visit art galleries, enjoy the beach, and have a drink on a terrace overlooking turquoise water; Cascais has everything you need for a city escape by the sea.
Ericeira
A world-class surfing destination with stunning ocean views, traditional Portuguese charm, and some of the best waves in Europe. You can also take surf lesson as a beginner. Being a smaller town, everything is within walking distance which makes a great destination for a slower pace travel.
Madeira
A paradise island with black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush forests, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Enjoy the city life at Funchal with many restaurants and shops or go in explorer mode with hikes offering breathtaking views. There are also many beaches and natural pools to relax. This island can be a full destination on its own or a perfect few days’ addition to your Portugal travel.
Wine & Food Tours
Portugal is known for its classic Porto wine, but there are many more options to discover! Many regions offer authentic Portuguese wine like Douro Valley and Alentejo. And let’s not forget the food! Mainly in Lisbon and Porto, you will find many food tour options to discover typical Portuguese meals (and they are yummy!!).
Douro Valley
One of the world’s oldest wine regions, famous for its terraced vineyards and exquisite port wines. Visitors can enjoy scenic river cruises, wine tastings at historic estates, and breathtaking landscapes.
Alentejo
A hidden gem for wine lovers, known for its rolling plains, cork forests, and full-bodied red wines. The region offers immersive vineyard tours, tastings, and charming countryside escapes.
Food tours in Lisbon & Porto
Indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine by exploring local food markets, bakeries, and family-run restaurants. Try iconic dishes like pastéis de nata (custard tarts), bacalhau (salted cod), and bifanas (pork sandwiches), along with a glass of Vinho Verde or Port wine.
Outdoor Adventures
Do you prefer being far from the cities and enjoying spending time in the forest? Portugal has you covered. With beautiful parks and islands, you can discover a variety of scenery through Peneda-Gerês National Park, Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Madeira, Azores, and so on. You will find many options for breathtaking hikes, waterfalls, natural pools, and more.
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Portugal’s only national park, boasting lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. A haven for hikers and nature lovers. This park is in Northern Portugal close to the Spain Border. There are many trails from easy to medium-hard which makes it a great option for every traveler.
Serra da Estrala Natural Park
Located between Lisbon and Porto, Serra da Estrela Park is the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, offers stunning landscapes, glacial valleys, and winter skiing opportunities.
Madeira
An island paradise located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 km southwest of mainland Portugal. paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with its walks, scenic mountain trails, and breathtaking viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro. Visitors can reach Madeira by flight, with direct connections from Lisbon, Porto, and other major European cities.
Azores islands
A volcanic archipelago located in the mid-Atlantic, about 1,500 km west of mainland Portugal. Known for its dramatic landscapes, crater lakes, and hot springs, the Azores are a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can reach the Azores by flight, with direct connections from Lisbon, Porto, and several international cities.
Cultural Experiences
To live the full Portugal travel experience, you can’t miss all the cultural aspects of this country. There is so much to discover from Fado music, historic castles, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Fado Music
A soulful and melancholic genre that embodies the spirit of Portugal. Originating in Lisbon’s Alfama district, Fado is a must-experience cultural tradition performed in intimate settings.
Historic Castles
Portugal is home to breathtaking castles, including the Moorish Castle in Sintra, Óbidos Castle, and Guimarães Castle, which played a key role in the country’s foundation.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Portugal boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower in Lisbon, the University of Coimbra, and the historic center of Évora, reflecting the country’s rich history and cultural significance.
Essential Travel Tips for Portugal
Currency & Payments
Portugal uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is recommended when heading to markets.
Transportation
Public transport is efficient, with trains and trams being great options in cities. You can also easily travel from main cities by train (faster) and bus (cheaper). Car is another good option especially if you are looking to explore the coast. However, in the cities, I recommend using public transport as parking can be hard to find. There are many Airbnb options with parking where you can leave your rental car.
Language
Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Knowing a few words in Portuguese is always appreciated by locals: “Bom dia” (Good morning) or “Boa tarde” (Good afternoon); Obrigado (thank you; if you are male) and Obrigada (thank you; if you are female).
Safety & Etiquette
Portugal is very safe, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas. Always greet locals with a friendly “Bom dia” (Good morning) or “Boa tarde” (Good afternoon); Obrigado (thank you; for man) and Obrigada (thank you; for woman).
Packing Tips
- Comfortable shoes: Lisbon and Porto are filled with hills. I highly recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes to explore these cities.
- Light jacket or vest: It is good to know that it is cooler in the evening (even during summer) – pack a light jacket (or a hot one for winter).
- Versatile clothing: I found that weather is like two different worlds in the sun vs in the shade. The sun is very hot but it can be airy and breezing in the shades. My tip would be to plan for outfits you can easily adjust throughout the day (especially during spring and autumn).
Conclusion
Portugal is a fantastic destination offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to explore its rich history, relax on breathtaking beaches, or indulge in world-class cuisine, Portugal has it all. Plan your trip wisely, follow these essential travel tips, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
