Things to See & Do in Portugal
Lisbon and Porto anchor most first trips, with Sintra an easy day out and the Algarve for beach days. The Douro Valley and the islands of Madeira and the Azores suit a longer stay.
Lisbon
The capital spreads over steep hills above the Tagus River. Wander the Alfama and Graça for viewpoints and old lanes, and head to Belém for the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, together a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The famous tram 28 is charming but crowded, and a known spot for pickpockets, so keep valuables close.
Sintra
About 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, Sintra’s wooded hills hold the colourful Pena Palace, the ruined Moorish Castle and grand estates. The town and its palaces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book timed tickets ahead and go early, as it gets very busy.
Porto and the Douro Valley
Porto’s historic centre tumbles down to the Ribeira riverfront, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk across the upper deck of the Dom Luís I Bridge to the port lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia for a tasting.
Upriver, the Douro Valley’s terraced vineyards are where port wine comes from. A day trip, a river cruise or a night at a wine estate all work well.
The Algarve
Portugal’s southern coast is known for golden cliffs, sea caves and sandy coves. Lagos, Tavira and the smaller towns make good bases, and boat trips are the best way to see the caves. Strong currents are common, so swim where there are lifeguards and obey the beach flags.
Madeira and the Azores
Portugal’s Atlantic islands are a short flight from Lisbon. Madeira is known for its mild climate, gardens and dramatic levada walks. The volcanic Azores have crater lakes, hot springs and whale watching.
What to eat
Pastéis de nata, the custard tarts, are everywhere. Look for grilled sardines in summer, bacalhau (salt cod) cooked countless ways, and in Porto, the hearty francesinha sandwich. Wash it down with vinho verde or a glass of port.
Let’s plan your Portugal trip
Tell me when you’d like to go, how long you have, and whether you want cities, coast or wine country. I’ll plan the route and book the stays, trains and flights.
The initial 30-minute consultation is complimentary. The professional research fee is $50 per traveller aged 2 or older, paid before research begins.