The Best of Portugal: A Complete Guide for Your First Visit
After a recent road trip through Portugal with my two best friends, I can confidently say it’s become one of my favorite places in the world. The stunning scenery, incredible architecture, welcoming locals, and great value for money made our trip unforgettable. Portugal’s mix of beautiful beaches, charming cities, and vibrant culture offers something for every traveler. In this guide, I’ll share the highlights of our adventure, from the Algarve’s coastal beauty to Lisbon’s lively streets, Sintra’s enchanting castles, Porto’s historic charm, and the Douro Valley’s scenic vineyards. I’ll cover where to stay, what to see, and the best places to eat, so you can experience Portugal just as we did.
The Algarve
The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, completely stole our hearts with its stunning beaches, dramatic coastline, and charming towns. It’s a true paradise for anyone who loves soaking up the sun or diving into adventures. Whether you’re looking to relax on golden sands or explore quaint historic spots, the Algarve has something for everyone.
Where to Stay in the Algarve
Luxury: Bella Vista Hotel and Spa
Bella Vista Hotel and Spa – If you’re after a touch of luxury, this spot in Portimão is unbeatable. Right on the beach with jaw-dropping ocean views, it’s not only the first hotel in the Algarve but also has a Michelin-starred restaurant with a vibrant, colorful vibe.
Moderate: Hotel Dom José
This hotel offers a great balance of comfort and value. With its beachfront location, clean ocean-view rooms, and stylish amenities, it’s perfect if you want a bit of luxury without splurging too much.
Budget Option: Pure Formosa Concept Hotel
Pure Formosa Concept Hotel – For a more budget-conscious stay, this boutique hotel is a winner. It’s got chic rooms and a rooftop pool, plus it’s ideally located for exploring the Algarve without breaking the bank.
What to See and Do in the Algarve
Kayaking in the Benagil Caves: Paddling through the Benagil Caves was one of our top highlights. The experience of gliding through these sea caves was unforgettable. If kayaking isn’t your thing, no worries—there are boat tours that’ll take you through these caves without breaking a sweat.
Visit Stunning Beaches: Praia da Rocha and Praia do Vau are beach paradises with their golden sands and clear waters. Whether you want to chill out or dive into water activities, these beaches have you covered.
Explore the Historic Town of Lagos: Strolling through Lagos was a delight. The walled old town, charming churches, and intriguing museums offer a captivating glimpse into its rich history. With its vibrant atmosphere, Lagos is truly a must-visit.
Ria Formosa Natural Park: Alvor’s picturesque streets and castle ruins make it a delightful day trip. The village’s quaint charm and historical significance are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Visit the Charming Village of Alvor: With its picturesque streets and castle ruins, Alvor is a delightful day trip. The village’s quaint charm and historical significance make it a memorable stop in the Algarve.
Where to Eat in the Algarve
Boneca Bar: Perched on the cliffs with stunning beach views, Boneca Bar was the perfect spot for lunch after our kayaking adventure. Great food and an even better view.
Rei das Praias: Located right on a beautiful beach, this is the perfect spot to watch the sunset while you eat dinner. With a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options, it’s great for a meal with a view.
Zazu Beach Club: Found in Praia de Luz, this club serves up tasty Asian cuisine with a beachfront backdrop. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the beach vibes.
Lisbon
After our time in the Algarve, we set off for a 2.5-hour drive to Lisbon, Portugal’s lively capital. This city seamlessly blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. From its colorful streets and rich cultural scene to its incredible food, Lisbon is sure to enchant you.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Luxury: Bairro Alto Hotel
This boutique hotel is set in an 18th-century building and has an incredible rooftop restaurant. Its blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes it a top choice.
Moderate: Brown’s Central Hotel
A lively bar, great location, and a vibrant atmosphere make this hotel perfect for staying right in the heart of Lisbon. Comfort and energy combined!
Budget: Mama Shelter
Known for its budget-friendly rates and trendy neighborhood, Mama Shelter also features a rooftop bar with stunning city views. Ideal for a vibrant stay without breaking the bank.
What to See and Do in Lisbon
Jerónimos Monastery: This Manueline masterpiece is a must-see for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Ride the Historic Tram to Miradouro da Graça: Tram 28 is a charming way to explore Lisbon’s history and take in one of the city’s best viewpoints.
Castelo de São Jorge: Explore this historic castle for a deep dive into Lisbon’s past and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Miradouro Santa Luzia Belvedere: Perfect for photography, this viewpoint offers beautiful views of Lisbon’s rooftops and the Tagus River.
Lisbon Cathedral: As one of the city’s oldest landmarks, this cathedral showcases stunning historic architecture and intriguing artifacts. It’s also a fantastic place to snap photos of the iconic historic trams.
Explore the Alfama Neighborhood: Wander through Alfama’s narrow streets, filled with traditional Fado music, vibrant street art, and cozy cafes. It’s a historic area with plenty of charm.
Torre de Belém: This iconic tower represents Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and offers fascinating history and lovely river views.Just be prepared to climb to the top.
Praça do Comércio: A grand square that’s ideal for people-watching and soaking in Lisbon’s lively atmosphere.
Shopping in Chiado Neighborhood: A great mix of traditional and modern shops, cafes, and theaters make Chiado a vibrant area for shopping and exploring.
Where to Eat in Lisbon
Lost In: This restaurant, blending Indian and Portuguese flavors, offers incredible city views that make it perfect for a sunset dinner. We thoroughly enjoyed the unique cuisine and the setting. Be sure to make a reservation to secure a spot!
BAHR Terrace: For one of our fancier dinners, we opted for BAHR Terrace. Situated on the rooftop of the Bairro Alto Hotel, this chic spot delivers some of the finest cuisine Lisbon has to offer, complemented by an open kitchen. It’s a great choice for a special evening, and reservations are recommended.
LX Factory: This 19th-century industrial complex is now home to eclectic shops, restaurants, bars, and workspaces. It’s a great spot for exploring and enjoying a diverse dining scene.
Sintra
Sintra, once Portugal’s capital, feels like stepping into a fairy tale with its breathtaking castles and picturesque architecture. On our trip, we opted for a day trip, and it was absolutely magical. The short train ride from Lisbon made it a breeze. That said, if you want to savor Sintra’s charm at a more relaxed pace, staying overnight is a wonderful option to truly immerse yourself in its enchanting beauty.
Where to Stay in Sintra
Luxury: Penha Longa Resort
Close to Sintra, this luxurious resort features a 14th-century monastery, golf courses, a spa, and Michelin-star dining. It’s an elegant retreat with everything you could want.
Moderate: Sintra Boutique Hotel
Centrally located with modern rooms, landscaped gardens, and a courtyard bar, this hotel offers comfort and convenience.
What to See and Do in Sintra
Pena Palace: Start your day early at this colorful palace to beat the crowds. Its stunning views and unique design are highlights of any Sintra visit.
Quinta da Regaleira: This mystical estate with ornate gardens, underground tunnels, and an intriguing palace is a must-explore.
Historic Center of Sintra: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, where you’ll find a charming mix of shops, cafes, and picturesque architecture. It’s a perfect spot for taking a pause between exploring the region’s many castles.
Castelo dos Mouros: Hike up to this medieval castle, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the region. The hike up requires a bit of effort, but the breathtaking vistas and the sense of accomplishment make it well worth it.
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park: Enjoy the lush forests, rugged coastline, and scenic beaches of this natural park. It’s ideal for hiking and nature walks.
Monserrate Palace: Visit this serene palace known for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens—a peaceful spot in Sintra.
Where to Eat in Sintra
Tascantiga: We stopped here for lunch while taking a break from our castle-hopping adventures. This laid-back spot features a terrace where you can enjoy sandwiches and tapas with a lovely view of Sintra. It’s a perfect place for a casual, delicious meal amidst your sightseeing.
Bar do Fundo: Located about 20 minutes outside Sintra, this restaurant offers fresh seafood with a stunning beach backdrop. Perfect for a relaxing meal.
Porto
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, quickly became one of my favorite places in the world after our trip. With its unique charm, rich heritage, and amazing port wine, Porto’s historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is the perfect setting for exploring. The mix of fascinating history and lively culture makes this city truly unforgettable.
Where to Stay in Porto
Luxury: The Yeatman Hotel
Perfect for wine lovers, this hotel offers spectacular views, a spa, and a pool. It’s located among the port lodges and is ideal for a luxurious stay.
Moderate: Neya Porto Hotel
Modern comfort with a rooftop bar and river views, built on the site of a ruined convent. It offers a great mix of history and modernity.
Budget: Decanting Porto House
A recently renovated old house with clean, comfortable rooms in an excellent location near the Metro. Ideal for budget travelers.
What to See and Do in Porto
Historic Ribeira District: Stroll along the Douro riverfront and explore the vibrant, colorful Ribeira district. It’s filled with lively cafes and historic charm.
Tour the Famous Port Wine Cellars: Head to Vila Nova de Gaia for a tour and tasting of the world-renowned port wine.
Palácio de Cristal: Visit this beautiful palace and its gardens for stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city.
Clerigos Tower: Climb this iconic tower for amazing views of Porto, and check out the baroque church next door.
Serralves Museum: Enjoy contemporary art exhibits in a beautiful park setting at this renowned museum.
Bike Ride to Matosinhos: One of our favorite moments in Porto was renting bikes and cruising along the beach. It’s a short, enjoyable ride to Matosinhos, and you get to relax with a beachside lunch before heading back.
Ponte de Dom Luís I: We loved walking across this bridge for breathtaking views of the Douro River and Porto’s skyline.
Porto Cathedral: Visit this historic cathedral for its impressive architecture and panoramic city views from the courtyard.
Palácio da Bolsa: Tour this stunning neoclassical building, especially the breathtaking Arab Room.
Catch a Soccer Match at Dragão Stadium: If you’re a football fan, watching a match at FC Porto’s home ground is so much fun!
Where to Eat in Porto
Restaurante Casario: We loved the Portuguese cuisine in a charming 16th-century building with beautiful Douro River views. It was such a memorable meal in a beautiful, historical setting. Reservations recommended.
Vagas Restaurante: Located in Matosinhos, this beachfront spot is where we stopped for a fresh lunch with ocean views.
UVA by Calem: For our final night in Porto, we chose UVA by Calem for a memorable dinner. Set on a riverboat, this restaurant offers elegant meals with local Portuguese flavors. It was the perfect way to wrap up our time in Porto, and reservations are definitely recommended.
The Douro Valley
The Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards and breathtaking landscapes, is a paradise for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy Portugal’s scenic beauty.
Where to Stay in the Douro Valley
Luxury: Octant Douro
This contemporary hotel features natural light, modern design, an indoor panoramic pool, and a hydrotherapy circuit. It’s a luxurious stay immersed in nature.
Moderate: Hotel Folgosa Douro
Right on the Douro River with beautiful views, modern rooms, and breakfast included. Conveniently near Gouvinhas Train Station.
Budget: Casa da Seara
Offering beautiful views and friendly staff, this budget option is surrounded by vineyards with boat tours available in Pinhão.
What to See and Do in the Douro Valley
Douro River Cruise: Relax on a river cruise to enjoy the stunning scenery of terraced vineyards and picturesque villages.
Visit a Vineyard: Tour a vineyard to taste famous port wine and learn about the winemaking process.
Explore Pinhão and Peso da Régua: These charming towns are great for leisurely walks, local shops, and cafes.
Mateus Palace: Visit this architectural gem with its stunning gardens—perfect for photography.
Scenic Train Ride Through the Valley: Enjoy breathtaking views of the vineyards and hillsides on a scenic train ride.
Hike Through the Vineyards: For a closer connection to the landscape, hiking through the vineyards offers stunning views.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies: Climb the steps to this sanctuary for panoramic views of the region. It’s a serene and picturesque spot.
Where to Eat in the Douro Valley
DOC Restaurant: Known for modern Portuguese cuisine and stunning river views, this spot is perfect for a fine dining experience.
Castas e Pratos: Offering traditional Portuguese dishes and a great selection of wines, it’s a cozy place for a delicious meal.
Cozinha da Clara: Combining Portuguese and international cuisine in a charming
Tips and Practical Advice for Portugal
How Long to Stay
We explored all major regions in Portugal over 10 days, and it was a perfect pace. Portugal is small and easy to get around, but you could easily split it into smaller trips if you prefer.
Getting to Portugal
Fly into one of Portugal’s major international airports: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), or Faro Airport (FAO). Direct and connecting flights are available from major US cities.
Getting Around
We rented a car for our trip, but navigating and parking in Lisbon and Porto was trickier than expected. For future trips, we’d opt for trains between cities and rely on Metro or Uber/Bolt within the cities for convenience.
Language
While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can make your interactions smoother and show respect for the local culture.
Climate
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Check the weather before you pack to ensure you’re prepared.
Customs and Etiquette
Portugal’s rich culture is warm and welcoming. Immerse yourself in local customs, try traditional dishes, and embrace the relaxed pace of life.
After our trip, Portugal quickly earned its spot as one of my favorite places in the world. The best of Portugal is revealed in every corner—from the sun-soaked beaches of the Algarve to Lisbon’s vibrant streets, Sintra’s fairy-tale charm, Porto’s historic allure, and the breathtaking vistas of the Douro Valley. Each region tells its own captivating story and offers unforgettable experiences. Whether kayaking through sea caves, wandering historic neighborhoods, savoring world-renowned wines, or soaking in the stunning landscapes, every moment felt like an adventure. I can’t wait to return and create more memories with loved ones. Boa viagem!
