Explore sandy beaches, towering castles, and cosmopolitan cities, mingle with friendly people with this 5-Day Portugal Itinerary!
Check out my ultimate 5 day Portugal itinerary to see the best spots in this beautiful Western European country.
I have put together the best places to visit in Portugal so you can experience the most and not miss out on any big highlights.
This 5 day itinerary in Portugal starts in Lisbon, the capital. Then, we will head to the south, the Algarve.
The Algarve has some of the best European beaches, while Lisbon is a charming, buzzing city of life and color!
As all prices are in Euros, click the links to find the current exchange rate for the Euro to the US dollar, UK pound, and Australian dollar.
Portugal Itinerary Day 1: Lisbon
We start this 5 day itinerary in the heart of Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon always has my heart whenever I visit, and I always seem to keep returning to this fascinating city.
When you arrive at Lisbon airport, you can hop on the metro to get around the city and check into your accommodation. It costs just €1.50 for a metro trip (purchase the reloadable card for €0.50 at the station) around Lisbon!
Start your day by heading down to the famous Praca do Comercio. The capital city’s square is one of the most beautiful in Europe, and you get incredible views of River Tragus and Ponte 25 de Abril – the longest suspension bridge in Europe.
River Tragus
As you stroll through the lively streets of downtown Lisbon, you will find yourself in the iconic neighborhood of Baixa!
Baixa is the central area of Lisbon, with the most shops, restaurants, bars, and other popular squares.
Don’t forget to walk past the famous Santa Justa Lift! If you want to go up the impressive, gothic-styled escalator or lift, it will cost you €5, and you get a great view of downtown Lisbon here.
One of Lisbon’s most popular activities is seeing the historic Sao Jorge Castle.
A ticket to Sao Jorge Castle is €10, and you can spend 1-2 hours exploring this beautiful spot.
Sao Jorge Castle
Once you come out of Sao Jorge, you can wander the streets of Barrio Alto and Alfama – two of the best neighborhoods in Lisbon that will show you old and modern Portuguese styles!
Barrio Alto is a great place to grab dinner and drink at one of the eccentric bars. The perfect way to spend day one in Lisbon for your Portugal 5-day itinerary!
Day 1: Lisbon Tours
Lisbon: Daytime/Sunset/Night City Sailboat Tour with Drinks
Departure: ‘PalmaYachts – Boat Tours’ Gate 1 in Doca de Belem, by Padrao dos Descobrimentos
Duration: 2 Hours
Includes: Cruise the River Tagus to see Lisbon’s top monuments with live commentary on their history. Explore the city by day, sunset, or night!
Tour Availability & Price
Lisbon: Live Fado & Alfama Tour with Traditional Dinner
Departure: ‘Lisbon Destination Tours’ Lisbon Destination Hostel, Rossio Train Station in Lisbon
Duration: 4 Hours
Includes: Discover Alfama’s ancient charm in Lisbon, explore its cobbled streets, enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine, and experience the soulful music of Fado in this historic neighborhood.
Tour Availability & Price
Portugal Itinerary Day 2: Cascais & Sintra
The following spots for your 5 day Portugal itinerary are in the enchanting towns of Cascais and Sintra, just a train ride away from downtown Lisbon.
Our Travel Guide to Portugal 2025 provides all the information you need to plan your next vacation to Portugal!
The trains run regularly between Cais do Sodre station in Lisbon to Cascais, which takes about 30 minutes.
Once you arrive in Cascais, you can explore the town’s boutique shops and cute cafes. One of the most popular things to see in Cascais is Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell in English!), a cliff formation creating a unique sea arch.
Views from Boca do Inferno
Cascais also has plenty of small beaches to stop at along the way to Boca do Inferno, so remember to bring a towel and swimsuit!
It’s time to head inland to Sintra, a 30-minute bus ride away. You can get the bus from Cascais Terminal to Sintra train station, which runs daily.
Sintra is most famous for the magical Pena Palace National Park, which is as symbolic for Portugal as any other place.
Pena Palace
After arriving at Sintra train station, you can get a tour bus or a tuk-tuk to Pena Palace. We got a tuk-tuk for around €5 each, and the whole ride was a very scenic and exciting experience!
Pena Palace has a few ticket options so that the price will vary depending on your choice. We just got the entry ticket for the Palace, where you can easily spend a couple of hours.
You can also get a ticket for the gardens, allowing you more time if you include this.
We went in October and managed to get tickets on the door, but pre-booking online might be a good idea during high season.
Enjoy some Portuguese cuisine in Sintra, and then get ready to catch the train back to Lisbon.
Day 2: Cascais & Sintra Tours
From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca Coast Day Tour
Departure: ‘Inside Lisbon tours’ (meeting point depends on tickets booked)
Duration: 8 Hours
Includes A full-day tour of Cascais, Sintra, and Europe’s westernmost point at Cabo da Roca. Optionally, visit Pena Palace for a magical experience!
Tour Availability & Price
Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Full-Day Tour from Lisbon
Departure: ‘Go2Lisbon – Tours & Transfers’ (meeting point depends on which pickup you book)
Duration: 8 Hours
Includes: Surf Cascais’ top beaches, visit Europe’s western point at Cabo da Roca, explore Sintra’s Pena Palace, and discover the medieval town near Lisbon!
Tour Availability & Price
Portugal Itinerary Day 3: Albufeira
Get ready for day 3 of your 5 day itinerary in Portugal! Next, we head to the south of Portugal in the glorious Algarve.
You can take the bus from Oriente station in Lisbon to Albufeira, and the journey takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. I always use Flixbus for this journey, and they have pretty regular buses. However, if you know the date you are going, pre-booking is best.
The best thing about the Algarve is there are so many beautiful beaches to choose from!
Once you arrive in Albufeira, stroll down to Albufeira Beach, the closest to the town center. Here, you can see the iconic elevator at the end of the beach, which takes you to an impressive viewpoint over Albufeira.
Albufeira Beach
As you walk from the beach, you will find yourself in the cobbled streets of Albufeira Old Town. Plenty of quirky shops and Portuguese restaurants allow you to grab a bite to eat here.
If you have time, you can go to a personal favorite, Praia da Marinha. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Albufeira. It’s a great area to explore nature and spend hours on this stunning beach.
Hiking area next to Praia da Marinha
As you prepare for the evening, go to ‘The Strip’ of Albufeira. The heart of nightlife is in Montechoro, a neighborhood of Albufeira known for its themed bars and nightclubs.
Montechoro is part of Albufeira New Town and comes alive with people during the hot summer months – making it the busiest area outside the Old Town.
Day 3: Albufeira Tours
Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour
Departure: ‘Dream Wave Algarve’ Dream Wave check-in kiosk in front of ‘Gate 4’ Café
Duration: 2 ½ hours
Includes: Take a boat trip to the famous Benagil Caves, explore the Algarve’s stunning rock formations, spot dolphins, and enjoy crystal-clear waters before returning to Albufeira!
Tour Availability & Price
From Albufeira Kayak Tours
Departure: Praia do CasteloR. da Torre Velha 2, 8200 Albufeira, Portugal
Duration: 2 Hours
Includes: Start this adventure by paddling from the beach towards Benagil Caves, then get ready for some fun water activities as you explore caves and secret beaches!
Tour Availability & Price
Portugal Itinerary Day 4: Lagos
Lagos is one of the most popular places to visit in Portugal.
I would recommend a day trip from Albufeira to Lagos purely for the close distance.
The bus journey from Albufeira to Lagos takes just over one hour, and it runs regularly. Of course, the earlier you leave, the more time you will have in Lagos!
Leave time to explore the town of Lagos and its beautiful buildings. The architecture is extraordinary and stays close to the traditional style (make sure you walk past ‘The Green Building’ in the town’s square!).
Lagos has one of Portugal’s best beaches: the famous Praia do Camilo. It’s also known as the ‘Instagram Beach’ because of its picturesque staircase to the sandy cove. From the center of Lagos, it’s about a 30-minute walk.
Praia do Camilo
Take a couple of hours to soak in the sun and quickly dip in the ocean at Praia do Camilo! Then, continue the walk along the coastline to Ponta da Piedade’s scenic point.
Ponta da Piedade is one of Europe’s most beautiful rock formations and one of Portugal’s most popular attractions.
Ponta da Piedade
You can also take the steps down to the bottom, where all the boats are, and admire the wildlife. Or, if you prefer, you can walk along the paths atop the cliffs, which are equally beautiful. If you catch the sunset here, it makes the experience even more special and breathtaking!
As you head back into Lagos town center, you can enjoy some tapas or Portuguese cuisine, then get the bus back into Albufeira for the night.
Day 4: Lagos Tours
From Lagos: 75-Minute Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade
Departure: ‘Bluefeet’ Bluefeet office inside Lagos train station
Duration: 75 minutes
Includes: Sail Lagos’ coast, exploring secluded beaches, and the famous Ponta da Piedade. Pass Praia Batata and Pinhao with historical commentary from your guide!
Tour Availability & Price
From Lagos: 3-Hour Algarve Cruise by Fun Catamaran
Departure: ‘Discover Tours’ Gate EFGHI at Marina de Lagos
Duration: 3 Hours
Includes: A cruise from Lagos to Praia da Luz, exploring the Algarve’s coastline, snorkeling at beautiful beaches, and a fun-filled day at Ponta da Piedade!
Tour Availability & Price
Portugal Itinerary Day 5: Faro
As we approach the last day of our five-day itinerary in Portugal, we enter the capital of the Algarve region, Faro.
Faro is the biggest city in the Algarve, home to the famous Ria Formosa and several beach islands.
You can get a bus from Albufeira to Faro; the journey takes just under an hour.
Once you arrive in Faro, you should first stroll down by the beautiful marina to admire the boats and impressive yachts!
From here, walk down to the ferry port, where you can get a boat to Ilha de Faro. The ferry runs regularly in peak season, and a round trip only costs €3.20.
Ilha de Faro is a long stretch of beach with some lovely restaurants and bars along the beachfront.
Ilha de Faro
Next to Ilha de Faro is Ilha Deserta—The Deserted Island! This extraordinary place makes you feel like you’re on your paradise island.
To get to Ilha Deserta, you can catch a ferry from Faro, which takes about 15 minutes.
Ilha Deserta is part of Ria Formosa national park and is the least developed island. It only has one restaurant, but the landscape is stunning.
The restaurant Estaminé on Ilha Deserta is open year-round. This unique spot is the only restaurant on the island, offering fresh seafood and local Algarvian specialties while operating sustainably with solar energy.
Access is only via boat, adding to the experience of dining in a remote, natural setting with breathtaking ocean views. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a meal after exploring the island’s untouched beaches or taking an eco-tour
Restaurant at Ilha Deserta
Ensure you don’t miss the last ferry back to Faro, as there’s no other way off the island!
Faro Airport also has many international flights, so you may be able to find a departing flight here to make your trip easier.
If not, you must take a bus back to Lisbon to get your flight home, so leave enough time to make this journey.
Day 5: Faro Tours
From Faro: Ria Formosa Faro Islands Catamaran Tour
Departure: ‘Islands 4 you’ Islands 4 you check-in desk in front of Eva Senses Hotel.
Duration: 3 Hours
Includes: On this unforgettable tour, sail through Ria Formosa National Park, explore its wildlife, and visit Ilha do Farol and Deserta to experience the Algarve’s most stunning beaches!
Tour Availability & Price
From Faro: 4 Islands, 4 Stops in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour
Departure: ‘Estrela da Ria Formosa’ Rua Comandante Francisco Manuel, 8000-138
Duration: 4 Hours
Includes: This boat cruise takes you to explore the four islands of Ria Formosa, with stops at Ilha do Farol, Ilha Deserta, Ilha Culatra, and Ilha dos Hangares!
Tour Availability & Price
Portugal in 5 Days: Itinerary Recap
This well-rounded 5 day Portugal itinerary designed for travelers who want a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Portugal in 5 Days: A Quick Itinerary Breakdown
- Day 1 begins in Lisbon, where you’ll discover historical landmarks such as São Jorge Castle and Jerónimos Monastery. The itinerary also recommends wandering through the iconic Alfama district, known for its charming narrow streets and traditional Fado music. This day perfectly sets the tone for the trip, giving travelers a glimpse of Lisbon’s rich history and vibrant culture.
- On Day 2, the Portugal 5 day itinerary suggests exploring Cascais and Sintra. Cascais is a picturesque coastal town offering stunning beaches and ocean views, while Sintra is home to the majestic Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira. These locations, easily accessible from Lisbon, showcase Portugal’s natural beauty and architectural splendor. This day is ideal for visitors wondering what to see in Portugal in 5 days and interested in scenic landscapes and impressive castles.
- Day 3 shifts the focus to the Algarve region, starting with a visit to Albufeira. Known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere, Albufeira is a must-see destination on any 5-day Portugal itinerary. Whether lounging on the beach or enjoying water sports, this region offers plenty, making it a perfect stop for relaxation and fun under the sun.
- On Day 4, the itinerary takes you to Lagos and its famous Ponta da Piedade. This area is renowned for its rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Boat tours through the famous Benagil Caves offer an unforgettable experience, allowing travelers to explore the stunning rock formations along the Algarve coast. This portion of the trip is highly recommended for those looking to make the most of Portugal 5 days in terms of natural wonders.
- Finally, Day 5 wraps up the journey with a visit to Faro. As the capital of the Algarve, Faro offers a mix of history and culture with attractions such as the Faro Cathedral and the Arco da Vila. The old town of Faro is a beautiful place to explore before departing from Portugal. If you want to end your 5 day itinerary in Portugal on a cultural note, Faro is the perfect final destination.
Something for Every Traveler
This Portugal 5-day itinerary covers a wide range of activities and sights, from historical landmarks and beautiful palaces to stunning beaches and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beach enthusiast, this itinerary offers something for every type of traveler.
For anyone wondering what to see in Portugal in 5 days, this guide provides a balanced mix of the country’s best cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making it easy to experience the country’s diverse offerings in just a short time. It’s the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors looking to explore the highlights of Portugal in a well-planned, efficient manner.
In summary, this 5 day itinerary Portugal ensures a memorable trip packed with enriching experiences. From Lisbon’s vibrant history to the Algarve’s breathtaking coastal views, this itinerary is perfect for anyone planning a five-day getaway to Portugal.
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These reviews will guide you in creating the perfect Portuguese adventure!
Travel Guide to Portugal 2025
Portugal is one of Europe’s safest, lowest-cost, and most exciting places to visit!
So, whether you’re planning a Portugal vacation with friends or family or just solo backpacking, this complete travel guide to Portugal will make the planning process easy.
Come check out all our tips!
Portugal – Where is Portugal
Portugal is in southwestern Europe, bordered by Spain. The group of islands of Madeira and the Azores are also part of Portugal.
Portugal is pretty tiny compared to the United States! It is just over 57,000 square miles or 92,000 square kilometers, with around 10 million people. Most Portuguese live along the coastline.
Depending on where you fly, an average direct flight from the United States to Portugal can take around 8 hours.
For example, flying from New York can take about 6 ½ hours to Portugal.
Portugal – Best Time to Travel
If you are unsure when to book your Portugal vacation – here’s some information to help you.
The best time to visit Portugal for good weather and lower tourist numbers is in Spring. The months will be warm, the days will be sunny without being unbearably hot, and the crowds will be calmer during Spring.
So if you’re visiting between March and May, you’re staying at a great time – flights also are not too expensive as it avoids high season.
Flight costs will likely increase as the peak summer season hits from June to September. The weather gets scorching, and get prepared for wall-to-wall crowds!
During Fall, crowds start to thin, and the weather gets slightly cooler – but still warm enough to enjoy.
Winter in Portugal is mostly cold and rainy, so it may not be the best time for your vacation. However, if you visit during the Christmas holidays, there will be lots of markets, and Lisbon will look beautiful with the lights on.
Portugal – Booking Flights
For the best deals on flights, use justfly.com and Skyscanner. You can set up automatic searches for flights, and an update will be sent to your email when prices drop.
Portugal – Landmarks & Attractions
Looking for the best landmarks and attractions to see while on your Portugal vacation?
Portugal has beaches, nature, culture, art, and history. There will never be enough time to see everything this beautiful country offers.
However, we have 6 of our favorite spots to help you plan the perfect travel guide to Portugal if you are short on time.
Pena Palace
The Palace of Pena is a magnificent national monument and one of Portugal’s most famous tourist attractions.
Standing on top of the serene mountains of Sintra, this castle features vibrant colors and unique architecture. It is a great day trip from Lisbon.
For more information and details of local tours, Check Pena Palace Tours Availability & Price.
Benagil Caves
The famous sea cave in the Algarve of Portugal is a must-see while on a Portugal vacation.
It is an impressive rock formation with sandy beaches where you can enjoy fun water activities such as SUP or kayaking; you can only reach the caves by water.
Most visit Benagil while staying in the nearby town of Lagos.
For more information and details of local tours, check Benagill Caves Tours Availability & Price.
Praca do Comercio
You don’t know the real Lisbon until you visit the iconic square of Praca do Comercio. This square is one of the most beautiful in Europe, with perfect views of the river and the grand arch.
This location is extra special during Christmas with the festivities and lights, making this the perfect place for an evening stroll.
For more information and details of local tours, check Praca do Comercio Tours Availability & Price.
Praia do Camilo
The Algarve has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, so it isn’t easy to choose just one favorite!
Praia do Camilo is probably the most famous beach with the best picturesque views.
If you have time on your Portugal vacation, try hitting as many beaches as possible!
For more information and details of local tours, check Praia do Camilo Tours Availability & Price.
Belem Tower
The Belem Tower is the most historical monument in Portugal. It is probably the most iconic building in Lisbon and one of the most visited attractions.
Very easy to get to from the center of Lisbon, Belem is a charming neighborhood and home to this medieval tower.
Check Belem Tower Tours Availability & Price
Sao Jorge Castle
A classic historic emblem of beautiful Lisbon, Sao Jorge Castle lies atop the hills of the city center, offering some of the best views.
This will make an excellent morning activity, and you can even purchase a tour here to learn more about the history of this famous landmark.
Check Sao Jorge Castle Tours Availability & Price for more information and local tours.
Portugal – Currency
Portugal’s official currency is the Euro. The Portuguese Escudo was the currency before the Euro’s introduction in 1999.
Click the links to find the current exchange rate for the Euro to the US, UK, and Australian dollar.
Portugal – Language & Customs
Portuguese is the official language of the country. However, many locals can also speak English!
In particular, the Algarve and Lisbon have many English speakers because of their local tourist industry. You won’t find as much English anywhere inland with fewer visitors.
The Portuguese use standard greetings such as ‘Bo ‘dia,” o’ tarde,’ and ‘Bo ‘noite’—all of which translate to ‘good morning,’ ‘good afternoon,’ and ‘good night.’
It might be handy to know ‘Obrigado’ (‘thank you) and ‘co ‘license’ (‘excuse me) while visiting Portugal.
Some may kiss you once on the cheek when they are introduced to a new person or say goodbye.
The Portuguese are generally friendly and helpful, so don’t be shy when talking with locals.
Note that it’s typical for the Portuguese to be late for gatherings! This may be around 10-15 minutes, so nothing too drastic.
Portugal – Accommodation
If you prefer to book American or European-style hotels, Booking.com has the best variety and deals; if you prefer to stay in a private home or apartment and live like a local, try “Vacation Rental by Owner” or Vrbo.
Portugal – Public & Local Holidays
The important holidays in Portugal are Christmas and New Year. Accommodation can get heavily booked this time of year, so pre-booking is essential!
There are many parties and festivities during Christmas; in particular, Lisbon can be lively and beautiful.
Easter is another key holiday celebrated in Portugal. It is significant because most Catholics celebrate Easter religious rituals.
To experience authentic Portuguese culture, visit the official Portugal Day on June 10th.
For hundreds of years, Dia de Camões, or Portugal’s independence day, has been celebrated. Fado, the Portuguese national form of music and song, can be heard echoing throughout the streets on this day as partiers commemorate their shared Portuguese heritage. Expect to experience street parties with food, drinking, and dancing!
The Portugal Carnival! This is one of the biggest festivals many attend yearly to celebrate the rich culture. It usually happens at the end of February and involves exotic dances, customs, and parades throughout Lisbon.
Portugal – Cell Phones
If you plan to go on a Portugal vacation and are from outside the EU, grabbing a local SIM card might be a good idea.
Vodafone, MEO, and NOS are the best network providers in Portugal. I recommend Vodafone or MEO, as these have the best coverage.
The quickest option is to get the SIM card at the airport. You can also head to one of their stores, or some big convenience stores may provide these.
Prepaid SIM cards usually cost around €10-30 and come with minutes and data.
For long-term plans, you can get a mobile phone contract, which is cheaper in the long run than a prepaid SIM card.
You will likely get data from the EU in your roaming plan, so you won’t have to worry about getting a SIM card! Make sure your home phone provider includes it before coming to Portugal.
Portugal – Internet Service
I have never experienced too many issues with the internet while in Portugal. The connection is usually medium to strong, and the network has never gone down for me.
Of course, it depends on where you are staying and how many people use the Wi-Fi. If you stay in a large hotel or another accommodation where everyone is soaking up the internet, it may get a little slow sometimes!
Lisbon is the top location for all digital nomads looking for the best internet – you can find plenty of coworking spaces in the city if you need to get some work done. Porto is also an excellent city for fast internet.
In general, there are many public internet places, such as parks, stations, libraries, and airports.
Portugal – Food
One of the best reasons to visit Portugal is simply for the food.
The Portuguese are mostly known for their delicious seafood. The fishing industry is BIG in Portugal.
With most of the population living on the coastline, the popularity of seafood in this country is no surprise.
You can still find many hip vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Lisbon. With veganism becoming more culturally acceptable and the latest trend, you will find many options in downtown Lisbon.
If you are visiting Porto in the north, you may have heard of some famous dishes only in this region.
Francesinha
The ‘Francesinha’ is arguably Porto’s most notorious dish – a sandwich with meat and cheese in a thick tomato and beer sauce.
The north is also famous for Porto wine. You cannot visit Portugal without trying this fantastic drink—it is one of the most consumed wines in Europe!
Stumble upon plenty of bakeries (called ‘Pastelaria’ Portugal) and try some of the best pastries of your life!
The more time you have in Portugal, the more foods you can try! But we know some of you will have limited days, so if there are three must-try foods, include these on your trip.
Pastel de nata
Pastel de nata is a Portuguese dessert all in one. The classic egg custard pastry is perfect for any snack or after-dinner treat. If you want to get one of these sweet delights, go to ‘Pa’teis de Belem’ –’ THE best place to get a pastel nata in Lisbon.
Sardinha’s
Sardinha’s one of the most adored dishes in Portugal, and you can get it anywhere. No more iconic dish represents Portuguese culture than the sardines.
Bacalhau
Bacalhau is Portugal’s national dish, and it is often served during celebrations or holidays. This salty, dry cod is enjoyed with potatoes, vegetables, and olives.
Portugal – Airports & Entry
Portugal has three main airports – Lisbon, Faro, and Porto.
Lisbon is the biggest airport as it’s the country’s capital city, with Faro covering the south and Porto in the north.
If you’re heading to the Portuguese islands, you can fly to Madeira or Joao Paulo II airport, the main airport for the Azores.
Direct flights from America to Portugal are available in certain states. New York, Miami, Boston, Chicago, Washington, and San Francisco usually have direct flights.
When flying from another state, check if you have any stops, as this will add extra time to your journey!
TAP Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal is the most common airline that flies from America to Portugal. You can find flights at a pretty reasonable price with TAP.
If you’re a US citizen going to Portugal on vacation and your trip won’t be longer than 90 days, you will not need a visa to enter the country, making life much easier!
When traveling from Europe, you will find low-priced flights with airlines such as EasyJet or RyanAir. If you’re coming from Spain, you can even get the bus into Portugal—I have often used Flixbus to travel between the two countries.
One of the most popular European train lines to ride is Interrail. You can opt for the more scenic route and enjoy the train journey from another European country. Another great option is to travel to Lisbon!
Portugal – Travel Insurance
If you’re from overseas, securing travel insurance is a wise step when planning a vacation in Portugal. Travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events.
When visiting overseas, you never know what can happen in another country. So we believe it is essential to have travel insurance just in case things go wrong or your trip is interrupted by an emergency.
Portugal – Getting Around (Public & Other Transport)
There are two main bus stations in Lisbon: Oriente and Sete Rios. Regular daily buses go to all major cities and towns in Portugal.
When traveling from Lisbon to the south or north of Portugal, I often take a bus from Oriente station without problems.
Popular bus companies in Portugal are Flixbus, Rede Expressos, and Rodonorte. The easiest way to look for bus times is to check online or ask at the station.
The biggest bus stations you can travel to are Lisbon and Setubal. In the south, you have Lagos, Albufeira, and Faro; in the north, you have Porto and Braga.
A great app in Lisbon is Citymapper—I never go a day without using it while in the city! All you have to do is enter your destination, and it will calculate the best modes of transportation from your departing point. It tells you exactly which line or station to go to and how much it will cost.
Lisbon also has an excellent, super-cheap metro system. You can hop on the metro from anywhere for just €1.50 or get a daily pass for €6.40 that you can use on any transport.
If you have a full day to explore Lisbon with many stops, I highly recommend getting the daily pass, as it’s cost-effective.
You must purchase the card at the station for €0.50, which you scan every time you get on the train. The self-service machine is straightforward to use and offers English options, too!
Portugal – Weather
The hottest months in Portugal are from June to September, with temperatures reaching 104 F or 40 C on some days. Pretty damn hot, right?
The Algarve, in the south of Portugal, is a notorious beach destination for those seeking the hottest weather.
The further north you go in Portugal, the colder it gets, but not drastically, only a few degrees difference.
Are you not keen on the soaring temperatures and looking for something milder? Spring and Fall are your better options.
April, May, September, and October typically have temperatures around the mid-20s, sometimes 30 degrees Celsius or 77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
November to March is Portugal’s coldest and wettest month. Temperatures can drop to around 10 C (50 F) in the south and closer to 5 C (41 F) in the north.
Portugal doesn’t experience unusual weather conditions – at least, I have never seen anything unusual here! Sometimes, it can get scorched in the south due to the lack of rainfall during the Summer months.
Portugal – History
This wouldn’t be a travel guide to Portugal without mentioning the rich history of this beautiful country.
It’s no surprise that people are always amazed at the history you can experience as it is one of Europe’s oldest countries!
The first Portuguese were none other than our beloved fishermen. The industry will always be iconic here, and nothing represents Portugal better than the fisherman!
Many fishing villages and towns, especially in the south of Portugal, have colorful buildings. Albufeira and Portimao are fantastic locations to explore the history of the fishing world.
See history come alive in the stunning ancient Portuguese buildings. The medieval structure and bright colors are legendary in Portuguese architecture, and you will find these everywhere.
You can find countless monasteries and churches in the major cities of Portugal that detail the country’s history right before your eyes.
If you’re looking for a day trip centered around history, I recommend going to the magical town of Sintra. I can’t explain the serene and calm atmosphere you can experience here – a secret place waiting for you in the hills of Portugal.
Travel Guide to Portugal 2025
Dreaming about those pastel de nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts)?
Swimming in the Algarve beaches?
Or stepping into dreamland at Pena Palace?
Come to Portugal and experience one of the best yet most underrated European countries.
Whether you’re getting away for a relaxing break in nature or looking for fun in the cosmopolitan city life, Portugal offers something for everyone.
Follow all our best tips and tricks in our travel guide to Portugal to ensure the best vacation in this Mediterranean paradise.
So get ready to get lost in this charming, cultural country. Portugal is waiting for you! Get packing and planning.
