Best 5-Day Portugal Itinerary for 2024 & 2025
Best 5-Day Portugal Itinerary for 2024 & 2025
Explore sandy beaches, towering castles, and cosmopolitan cities, and mingle with friendly people with this 5-Day Portugal Itinerary!
Check out my ultimate five-day Portugal itinerary to see the best spots in this beautiful western European country.
I have put together the best places where you can experience the most of Portugal and not miss out on any big highlights.
This 5-day itinerary in Portugal will start in the capital city, Lisbon. Then we will head down to the south, the Algarve of Portugal.
The Algarve has some of the best European beaches, while Lisbon is a charming, buzzing city full 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 with the most shops, restaurants, bars, and the other popular squares of Lisbon.
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 will be to 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
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: A cruise along River Tragus to see some of Lisbon’s best monuments! The live commentary will tell you many interesting facts and the history behind each attraction. Choose to visit Lisbon during the day, at sunset, or night!
Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price
Lisbon: Live Fado & Alfama Tour with Traditional Dinner
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 the ancient neighborhood of Alfama in Lisbon and learn about the traditional Portuguese music of Fado! They will also take you through the cobbled streets of Alfama, where you can explore and for some typical Portuguese cuisine.
Bookings: Check 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 2024 provides you with all the information you need to plan your next Portugal Vacation!
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 that runs daily.
Sintra is most famous for the magical Pena Palace National Park. There is no other place as symbolic as Pena Palace for Portugal.
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!
There are a few ticket options at Pena Palace, so 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 yourself more time if you include this.
We went in October and managed to get tickets on the door, but it might be a good idea to pre-book online when going in 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
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: Take a full-day tour through the towns of Cascais and Sintra and see Europe’s most western point at Cabo da Roca! There is nothing more magical than driving past Sintra’s phenomenal mountains. You will also get the choice to opt for entry tickets to Pena Palace in Sintra.
Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price
Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Full-Day Tour from Lisbon
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: Explore the best surfing spots and beaches of Cascais and the most western point of Europe at Cabo da Roca. Get entry tickets to the famous Pena Palace of Sintra, and learn about the medieval town outside Lisbon!
Bookings: Check 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 get 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, but it is best to pre-book if you know what date you are going.
The best thing about the Algarve is there are so many beautiful beaches to choose from!
Once you arrive in Albufeira, you can take a stroll down to Albufeira Beach, which is 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. There are plenty of quirky shops and Portuguese restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat here.
If you have time, you can go to a personal favorite, Praia da Marinha. This is around 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
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: A boat trip to the iconic Benagil Caves! These famous rock formations are one of the best attractions in the Algarve; access is by boat only. Enjoy the crystal clear waters and spot some dolphins before returning to Albufeira!
Bookings: Check 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!
Bookings: Check 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 1 hour, and they run regularly. Of course, the earlier you leave, the more time you will get in Lagos!
Leave yourself some 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 leading to the sandy cove. From Lagos center, it’s about a 30-minute walk.
Praia do Camilo
Take a couple of hours to soak in the sun and have a quick 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 as 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
From Lagos: 75-Minute Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade
Departure: ‘Bluefeet’ Bluefeet office inside Lagos train station
Duration: 75 minutes
Includes: This boat cruise in Lagos will show all the best-secluded beaches and the famous Ponta Da Piedade! Sail past Praia Batata and Pinhao. The guide will also give a commentary explaining the history behind these locations.
Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price
From Lagos: 3-Hour Algarve Cruise by Fun Catamaran
From Lagos: 3-Hour Algarve Cruise by Fun Catamaran
Departure: ‘Discover Tours’ Gate EFGHI at Marina de Lagos
Duration: 3 hours
Includes: From Lagos to Praia da Luz – this 3-hour cruise will show you the stunning coastline of the Algarve. See the iconic Ponta da Piedade and snorkel at the most beautiful beaches in Portugal! A day full of sun, ocean, and activities.
Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price
Portugal Itinerary Day 5: Faro
As we come to the last day of our 5-day itinerary in Portugal, we enter the capital of the Algarve region, Faro.
Faro is the biggest city in the Algarve and is 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.
The first thing you should do once you arrive in Faro is to stroll down by the beautiful marina to check out the boats and impressive yachts!
From here, walk down to the ferry port, where you can get a boat to Ilha de Faro. In peak season, the ferry runs regularly, 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, you have Ilha Deserta – The Deserted Island! An extraordinary place that 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 out of the islands. It only has one restaurant here, and the landscape is just stunning.
Recently the restaurant suffered major fire damage, so it may be a good idea to bring your drinks and food until the restaurant reopens.
Restaurant at Ilha Deserta
Make sure 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 perhaps you can find a departing flight here to make your trip easier.
If not, you will need to 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
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: Sail through the gorgeous Ria Formosa national park – one of Portugal’s best places for nature and wildlife! This tour will also stop at Ilha do Farol and Deserta so you can experience some of the most beautiful beaches of the Algarve.
Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price
From Faro: 4 Islands, 4 Stops in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour
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 amazing boat cruise will show you the four islands of Ria Formosa! At each one, you will get to stop and explore the beaches of Ilha do Farol, Ilha Deserta, Ilha Cultura, and Ilha dos Hanagres.
Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price
The Best 5-Day Portugal Itinerary for 2024
Whether you’re reading this for inspiration or planning your upcoming vacation, this exciting 5-day Portugal itinerary will keep you on your feet and wanting more!
Prepare yourself for an action-packed five days in sunny Portugal, full of sun, ocean, city life, and beautiful natural parks. This country has so much to offer and is just waiting for you to explore.
Flights and Accommodation
Here are our recommendations if you are still planning your vacation and want the best deals on flights or accommodation.
Flights
For flights, we 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.
Accommodation
If you prefer to book and stay in American or European-style hotels, Booking.com has the best variety and deals. If you want a private home or apartment accommodation and live like a local, use “Vacation Rental by Owner” or Vrbo.
For more information to help you plan your Portugal vacation, read our Travel Guide to Portugal for 2022.
Travel Guide to Portugal 2024
Portugal is one of the safest, lowest-cost, and most exciting places to visit in Europe!
So if you’re planning a Portugal vacation with friends or family or just solo backpacking, this complete travel guide to Portugal will make the whole planning process easy.
Come check out all our tips!
Portugal – Where is Portugal
Portugal is in southwestern Europe, bordered by Spain. Also, as part of Portugal, you have the group of islands of Madeira and the Azores.
When you compare Portugal to the United States, it is pretty tiny! The country is just over 57,000 square miles or 92,000 square kilometers, with around 10 million. Most Portuguese live along the coastline of Portugal.
An average direct flight from the United States to Portugal can be around 8 hours, depending on where you fly.
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 are sunny without being unbearably hot, and the crowds are 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 soar as peak season in the summer 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 will be mostly cold and rainy, so perhaps not the best time for your vacation. If you visit during the Christmas holidays, there will be lots of markets, and Lisbon looks beautiful with the lights.
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 PorPortugal’sst famous tourist attractions.
Standing on top of the serene mountains of Sintra, this castle features many vibrant colors and unique architecture that will make 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.
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 head down to 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 is full of 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 most historical monument in Portugal is the Belem Tower. 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 with some of the best views.
This will make an excellent morning activity, and you can even purchase a tour here if you want to learn more about the history of this famous landmark.
For more information and local tours, check Sao Jorge Castle Tours Availability & Price.
Portugal – Currency
The official currency of Portugal is the Euro. The Portuguese Escudo was the currency before the EurEuro’stroduction in 1999.
Click the links to find the current exchange rate for the Euro to the US dollar, the UK pound, and the Australian dollar.
Portugal – Language & Customs
Portuguese is the official language of the country. However, you will find a lot of locals can speak English too!
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,’ a’d ‘Bo ‘noite’ –’ all translating to good morning, good afternoon, and good night.
It might be handy to know ‘ob’igado’ (‘hank you) and ‘co ‘licenca’ (‘xcuse 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 a little 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 a private home or apartment accommodation 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 get lively and look beautiful.
Easter is also another key holiday celebrated in Portugal. Easter is a significant holiday as most Catholics celebrate easter religious rituals.
If you want to experience authentic Portuguese culture, you can visit on the official Portugal Day on 10th June.
Celebrated for hundreds of years is Dia de Camões, or Portugal’s independence day has been. 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 each year 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, it might be a good idea to grab a local SIM card.
The best network providers in Portugal are Vodafone, MEO, and NOS. I recommend going for 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 to get a SIM card, or some big convenience stores may provide these.
Prepaid SIM cards are usually around €10-30 and come with minutes and data.
For long-term plans, you can get a mobile phone contract which works out cheaper in the long run compared to a prepaid SIM card.
You will likely get data included in your roaming plan from the EU, 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 are staying 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, you will find 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 dishes that are famous only in this region.
Francesinha
The ‘Francesinha’ is arguably Porto’s most notorious dish – a sandwich with meat and cheese served in a thick tomato and beer sauce.
The north is also famous for the 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, make sure you 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.
SarSardinha’s
Sardinha’s one of the most adored dishes in Portugal that you can get anywhere. There is no more iconic dish that represents Portuguese culture than the sardines.
Bacalhau
Bacalhau is the national dish of Portugal that people eat for celebrations or holidays. Enjoy this salty, dry cod 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.
You will find direct flights from America to Portugal 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 to fly from America to Portugal. You can find flights at a pretty reasonable price when flying 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 a lot easier!
When traveling from Europe, you will find flights with airlines such as EasyJet or RyanAir at a low prices. If you’re coming from Spain you can even get the bus into Portugal – I have often used Flixbus to go 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
You never know what can happen in a foreign country. ThaThat’sy it is essential to have travel insurance when things go wrong or your trip gets interrupted by an emergency. The insuremytrip travel insurance site provides coverage from some of the best-rated companies, including licensed agents available 365 days per year.
Their customer reviews are an excellent resource for travelers to get advice about their policies.
Portugal – Getting Around (Public & Other Transport)
There are two main bus stations in Lisbon – Oriente and Sete Rios. You will find regular daily buses going to all major cities and towns in Portugal.
When going from Lisbon to the south or north of Portugal, I often take a bus from Oriente station with no 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 this 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 metro system that is super cheap. 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 of exploring 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 use to scan every time you get on the train. The self-service machine is straightforward to use and gives 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 location for all those searching for 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 the coldest and wettest month in Portugal. 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 out of the ordinary 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!
You can find many fishing villages and towns, especially in the south of Portugal, and explore their colorful buildings. Albufeira and Portimao are fantastic locations to see 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 of their 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 2024
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 some fun in the cosmopolitan city life, Portugal will give something to 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.
