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Top Portugal Attractions & Experiences
Top Portugal Experiences
- Explore Portugal's rich culture and historic cities with sun-drenched coastlines, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and charming villages. Our tours offer a spectrum of adventures tailored to every traveler's tastes and preferences.
- Exploring Evora, a small old town with numerous historic structures
- Cruising the Azores, an archipelago consisting of 9 volcanic islands. Whale watching is one of the popular activities
- Sipping a glass of wine in Porto, known for its port wine production
- Taking a Portugal walking tour through beautiful areas, tasting local food
- Relaxing in the sunny Mediterranean climate on the beaches of Algarve
- Visiting Lisbon, Portugal's picturesque capital
- Marveling at the ornate interiors of Sintra's palaces, nestled amidst lush greenery
- Exploring the medieval streets of Obidos, surrounded by well-preserved castle walls
- Sampling fresh seafood delicacies at the bustling fish markets of Matosinhos
- Soaking in the natural beauty of the Douro Valley, home to terraced vineyards and scenic river cruises
- Discovering the Moorish influences in the architecture of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, on a day trip from Portugal
- Embarking on a thrilling jeep safari through the rugged terrain of Madeira Island
- Admiring the intricate azulejo tiles adorning the facades of buildings in Aveiro, the "Venice of Portugal"
- Taking a scenic train ride along the Douro River, passing through picturesque valleys and vineyards
- Exploring the historic university town of Coimbra, home to one of the oldest universities in the world
- Hiking the stunning cliffs of the Rota Vicentina trail along the Alentejo coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views
Portugal Tours & Travel Guide
Portugal Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Portugal shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain and has long been overshadowed by its larger neighbor. It's the closest country in continental Europe to America, and savvy travelers are discovering that Portugal is a beautiful country in its own right and a bargain to visit.
Hilly Lisbon, the capital and largest city, is crowned by a fort with magnificent views. In the north, the pretty Douro is the heart of Port wine country and the embarkation point for Douro River cruises.
The southern Algarve region is replete with beaches, and Portuguese cuisine is gaining fame. So, if you're visiting Europe this year, you won't regret putting Portugal on your tour list.
Portugal has the Atlantic Ocean on its western border and Spain on its eastern border. Among Europe's smaller countries, Portugal exhibits a strong, vibrant culture coupled with incredible natural beauty. Travelers to Portugal have yet to discover its many secrets, which means you may have many of its hidden gems to yourself.
Top Cities to Visit on a Trip to Portugal
In modern history, Portugal has emerged relatively unscathed from two world wars and remains fairly autonomous from its more entrenched European neighbors. The country was at the center of the world stage for its contributions to science and exploration during the Age of Discovery.
Both by location and its many 'enlightened' thinkers, Portugal was among maritime travel and technology leaders. This fascinating history of Portugal comes alive as you walk the streets and enjoy its vibrant culture, which has grown from the many discoveries of explorers through the ages.
Oporto (Porto)
Porto is a charming city best known for its port wine industry. This up-and-coming city in the country's north is a must-see during your Portugal tour, not only for the wine but also for its vibrant nightlife, postcard-perfect Rabelo sailboats, ancient Ribeira district, and great art scene.
Take a trip on one of the picturesque boats, perhaps with a glass of port in hand (or try the Porto Flip, a concoction of red port, brandy, and egg yolk).
Small group tours to the city of Porto can unveil the labyrinthine cobblestone streets of the Ribeira district and its centuries-old homes. Arrange for port wine tastings and set up private boat cruises along the Douro River.
In fact, it's easy from Porto to add on a full Douro River cruise through Spain and Portugal.
Lisbon
Visit the capital city of Lisbon and slip back to an era when brave souls like Vasco da Gama set off to see what the world had in store. We can't quite believe they left this stunning city, though!
Today, this capital city of Portugal is quickly becoming one of Europe's favorite cities for its welcoming, liberal attitude, affordability, modernism, traditional heritage, and abundant beauty.
History buffs flock to Baixa, Alfama, Chiado, and the Avenida da Liberdade on tours that delve into Portugal's past. Each area is accessible and near the city's major sightseeing attractions.
Take a ferry ride or river cruise on the Rio Tejo for a view from the water. Head to the top of one of the city's seven renowned hills for a high vantage point.
Travelers interested in photography will adore these Portuguese miradouros (viewpoints) over the cathedral-dotted cityscape and winding river. From Portas do Sol, Santa Luzia, Castelo de São Jorge, and other top vantage points, you can take technicolor photos without any filters.
Beyond the city's allure, a Portugal vacation boasts beach time, too. To the west, you can explore the Cascais-Estoril coastline; to the south, you'll get to wiggle your toes in the sand of the Costa de Caparica.
Sintra
Away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon and Porto, Sintra — once a center of European Romantic architecture — is home to ornate palaces and ancient castle ruins, all tucked in the hillsides of the Serra de Sintra.
If you're interested in architecture, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see on any Portugal tour.
Don't miss the Royal Palace in the center of town, dating back to the early 15th and 16th centuries. The front-facing tiles are known to be one of the best examples of the Mudéjar technique (a blend of European and Moorish styles) on the Iberian Peninsula.
Sintra is just as well known for its green spaces. Much of the region sits within the protected area of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, including Pena Park, where you'll find the romantic mountaintop Pena Palace. Active travelers might enjoy the challenge of cycling to the palace.
If hiking is more your style, ask about Portugal tours that offer guided hiking at Pedra Amarela and Penedo da Amizade, which offer the best views of Sintra. Return to town to refuel with the tasty and famous queijada (cheesecake) or travesseiros (almond pastry).
The sandstone buildings of Salamanca appear to glow, giving this UNESCO World Heritage Site its nickname of La Dorada, or The Golden One. History buffs love Salamanca for its rich, 2,000-year-old history, during which time Vacceans, Vettones, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors frequented the village.
You will find a stunning diversity of culture and architecture here, making it a top historic site in Portugal. Imagine wandering the same streets Cervantes and San Juan de la Cruz walked during the Spanish Golden Age.
The University of Salamanca — a world-class school popular with both Spanish and international students — lends a contagious university-town feel as scholars frequent the lively bars, cafes, and restaurants.
If local Portuguese cuisine is important on your group tour, Salamanca is perfect for its many cultural influences, which have led to various must-try dishes over the centuries. Tuck into a hornazo pastry stuffed with pork, hard-boiled eggs, or a cochinillo al fuego (roasted suckling pig).
Not to be outdone in the wine department, Salamanca offers a tour of the historic Hacienda Zorita Winery. Sweet tooths must stop at Convento de las Deunas for sweets and baked goods made by the resident nuns.
From Salamanca, it's easy to tour nearby Portugal highlights, including Madrid (two hours away), the endearing small town of La Alberca (about 40 miles away), and Zamora, Toledo, and Valladolid, all great choices for an in-depth Portugal vacation.
Coimbra
Another youthful university city is Coimbra. For over a century, Coimbra was the medieval capital of Portugal. Sightsee and dine where six Portuguese kings were born.
This is a prime spot for catching local music and dance during your tour — you'll hear guitarra (Portuguese guitar) and fado singers throughout lingering summer evenings. Don't miss the incredible 12th-century Romanesque cathedral in the old town.
Spain and Portugal Tours
Spain and Portugal are popular destinations often visited together due to their proximity and shared cultural heritage.
Many tours start in Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, where travelers can immerse themselves in the city's rich history, stunning architecture, and culinary delights. From Lisbon, the journey often continues to Porto, renowned for its picturesque riverside views and world-famous port wine cellars.
When crossing into Spain, travelers usually head to famous cities like Madrid, the country's bustling capital, known for its grand boulevards, art museums, and lively plazas. From Madrid, the itinerary might take them to Seville, which has Moorish architecture, flamenco dancing, and the historic Alcazar palace.
Spain and Portugal tours usually include Granada's majestic Alhambra Palace, Barcelona's iconic landmarks such as Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, and the charming coastal towns of the Costa del Sol.
You could fly into both countries, but travelers can also opt for road or rail travel to enjoy glimpses of the stunning countryside along the way. Some tours may also include river cruises along the Douro or Guadalquivir rivers, providing a leisurely way to see the landscapes from a different perspective.
Portuguese Culture
Looking for European culture? Private and small-group Portugal tours are a sure way to experience the country's three official European Capitals of Culture: Lisbon, Porto, and Guimarães. Many cultures — Phoenician, Sephardic Jewish, Moorish, Germaic, and Celtic to name a few — have heavily influenced these cities and the rest of the country over the centuries.
Arts: There's a renaissance of the arts on the rise here. Portugal art tours introduce travelers to lesser-known local art exhibitions in smaller cities, trendy art galleries like the Arte AFK in Lisbon, and university museums in Coimbra.
Literature: Bookworms are in for a delight on a Portugal tour — ask your Portugal tour guide to include a visit to Porto's Lello bookstore to view its incredible staircase or time your trip to Portugal with the Lisbon Book Fair each June.
Folk Music: Remember to get a taste of fado and folk music on your Portugal trip. Fado means "destiny" or "fate," and you'll quickly see why — the lyrics and tunes you'll hear are most often associated with longing and homesickness. During a fado performance on your Portugal vacation, it's polite to applaud (if in Lisbon) or quietly clear your throat (if in Coimbra). Fado is so interwoven into Portuguese life that it is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Sports: Futebol (or soccer) is the most popular sport in Portugal, with the oldest club, Boavista, having been here since 1903. The country's national team ranks quite highly by FIFA, and Cristiano Ronaldo will become a household name after your trip to Portugal.
Cafe Culture: Each morning of your escorted Portugal tour, take a moment to enjoy the country's cafe culture. Locals flock to their favorite haunts to catch up, read the paper, or watch the news as they prepare for the day ahead. It's the perfect and easiest way to feel like a local in Portugal.
Holidays and Festivals
In Portuguese culture, holidays and celebrations mostly revolve around food. No matter what time of year you visit Portugal, you'll have the chance to party with the locals, celebrating everything from wine to cheese to garlic.
Carnaval is a big deal here and runs for several days leading up to Lent (not just on Fat Tuesday), with parades, singing, and dancing taking over the streets. Summer Portugal tours may coincide with several saint days (for Saints Anthony, John, and Peter) in June—expect weddings and fireworks, and don't be surprised if someone uses a toy plastic hammer to "hammer good luck into you"!
Portugal is a predominantly Roman-Catholic country, so the Christmas holidays are celebrated with much pomp. Holiday tours to Portugal may include attending Midnight Mass — try a treat of fried pumpkin dough — or, later, on the Feast of the Epiphany in early January, dig into a Bolo Rei or King Cake to find small treats tucked inside them.
Food and Wine
As a relatively small ocean-bordered country, over the centuries Portugal has seen visitors from all over the world. So, Portuguese cuisine has many influences, prominently from their Spanish neighbors.
You'll find highly fresh seafood available all over Portugal, so be sure to enjoy it! Specialties include dry cod and sardines, which feature in many local dishes.
Portugal has a long-standing wine industry, making it a perfect destination for a wine tour. Portuguese wines are less popular in the United States, so be sure to enjoy tasting from local producers who seldom export. The Porto region produces world-class Port and Madeira wine.
Top 5 Foods to Try in Portugal
Indulge in the taste of Portugal and go on a private tour and lunch on decadent gastronomic delights throughout your trip. Here are the top foods you must taste as you explore Portugal.
Bacalhau (Codfish): This flaky and delicious whitefish is a dish traditionally enjoyed by Portuguese people on Christmas Eve. A classic recipe involves olive oil, lemon, and onions. Bacalhau is also commonly dried and salted, which makes for a great pick-me-up snack during your Portugal tour!
Alheira (Portuguese sausage): Would you think something as simple as sausage could be historically interesting? Alheira represents a food that helped thousands of people practice their religion in secret in the late 1400s. When the Jewish population of Portugal was expelled, many groups escaped to refuge in the Trás-os-Montes region, where this sausage hails from.
Authentic Alheira is made and smoked with chicken, turkey, partridge, veal, or rabbit, but you can also find some pork variations.
Francesinha: There is no English translation for francesinha; if there were, it might be "don't order unless you're really hungry." It's a dish for foodies, but you'd best split it with someone else.
Francesinha originates from Porto and consists of bread stuffed with several different types of meat, covered with melted cheese and a fried egg. It's then served with a tomato and beer sauce! Be sure to ask around to find out where the locals like to grab one of these hunger-quenching sandwiches.
Polvo à Lagareiro (Whole Octopus): Seafood is second nature in Portugal, and you'll find no end to delicious options. If you're feeling adventurous, you should definitely not pass up the opportunity to try Polvo a Lagareiro. A whole octopus is boiled and then baked, traditionally with potatoes and garlic.
If you've never had octopus before, try coaxing someone in your tour group to share with you - the flavor and texture are sometimes an acquired taste. But if there was ever somewhere in the world to expand your seafood reproitroiure, it's Portugal!
Sardinhas grelhadas (Grilled Sardines): Another famous seafood treat to try in Portugal is grilled sardines. Many Portuguese use the grill, which really brings out the smokey flavor in these morsels. Very commonly served in restaurants, grilled sardines can also be found as street food, served simply with a piece of bread.
Outdoor travel in Portugal
Besides food and wine, Portugal is also a hidden gem for adventure travelers. Hiking and cycling are two of Portugal's most popular activities for active and adventure tours. You can enjoy them right on the mainland along Portugal's coastline, which offers spectacular views. Otherwise, the Azores islands and Madeira archipelago off the coast are great for peace and tranquility.
Remember that most hiking or cycling tours in Portugal are pretty strenuous, given the hilly terrain. If you'd rather not spend your entire vacation on the trails, consider choosing a Portugal tour that includes a few optional hiking activities on the itinerary.
Portugal's Best Hiking and Cycling Areas
From rugged coastal trails to scenic mountain routes, the following destinations offer unparalleled opportunities to explore the country's natural beauty on foot or by bike.
Penada-Geres: Oddly, Portugal only has one official national park, Penada-Geres. Situated in the northern part of the country and crossing the Spanish border, Penada-Geres is stunningly beautiful and an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, camping, walking, and hiking. Several trails throughout the park are suitable for all physical levels.
Rota Vicentina: Long-distance hikers will enjoy the challenging yet rewarding Rota Vicentina trail. There are two main trails: a coastal route, the "Fisherman's Trail," and an inland route called "The Historical Way." The Rota Vicentina covers 450 km (280 miles); its southernmost point is the southernmost tip of Europe, Cabo de São Vicente.
Madeira: Off the North African coast, Madeira is the perfect getaway for outdoorsy travelers seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. The paths are not for the faint of heart, so be prepared to be challenged with steep and strenuous hiking—the amazing views from the summits around the islands are well worth the effort.
Douro River Cruises in Portugal
Portugal's serpentine Douro River is an interesting, off-the-beaten-path cruising destination that you should check off your list before the rest of the world discovers it.
Typically, Douro River cruises sail roundtrip from Porto, set in western Portugal near the Atlantic Ocean. Cruises head east to Vega de Terron, Spain, about 125 miles down the Douro River. Along the way, your small river cruise unveils a world of food, wine, history, and music, past the ripe vineyards and quiet villages.
Small river cruises on the Douro introduce travelers to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is as culturally significant as beautiful. Known for its miles upon miles of vineyards, the Douro River Valley is home to some of Europe's friendliest and most welcoming people. Here, you can indulge in excellent Port wine and Portuguese pingo, similar to espresso (and paella as you cruise into Spain).
As your Douro River cruise continues upstream, you'll enter the Alto Douro (Upper Douro) wine region and most likely stop at Pêso da Régua (or simply Régua). If you've bought wine from this region of Portugal in the past, this is probably the river port through which it was shipped.
Appreciate the vastness and beauty of the terraced vineyards on both sides of the river. These grapes ultimately become port after adding Portuguese brandy (aguardente) — you'll sample it right at the source!
Join a winery tour and look for signs of the Alto Douro's long history at area wineries. This is the world's oldest formally demarcated wine region, and you're likely to see original stone foundations or dine in a centuries-old estate.
Throughout your Douro cruise, you'll get your fill of the iconic port wine and red and white table wines garnering interest worldwide. If you cruise the Douro River during the harvest, you may also pick grapes or stomp them with the residents and winemakers.
Portugal Reviews & Ratings
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Highlights of Portugal
Although described as a fast paced tour(which it was), it was a good introduction to visiting Portugal with many highlights as well as vising some lesser known par...
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Raymond Rivero
Oct 2022
Written on
Best of Portugal Small Group
Already did in my comments!!
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Trusted Customer
Apr 2024
Written on
Treasures of Spain and Portugal End Barcelona
This was a very interesting tour with a lot of fascinating places....
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