Portugal
Portugal is one of those destinations that travelers discover and immediately want to keep to themselves. It has everything the more famous European countries offer, often at half the price, and with a fraction of the crowds. The food is outstanding, the wine is world class, the coastline is dramatic, and the people are some of the warmest in Europe. If you have not been yet, put it at the top of your list.
The country sits on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, bordered by Spain to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is compact enough that you can drive from Lisbon to Porto in three hours and reach the Algarve beaches in another two. That makes multi city trips easy and efficient.
Where to Go
Lisbon is a city built on seven hills, and the views from each one are spectacular. The historic Alfama neighborhood, with its narrow cobblestone alleys, tiled facades, and fado music floating from open doors, is magical. The Belem district is home to the Jeronimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem, both UNESCO sites, and the famous Pasteis de Belem bakery, which has been making the city’s signature custard tarts since 1837.
Porto, in the north, is where port wine comes from. The Ribeira district along the Douro River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia across the river offer tastings and tours. The Douro Valley, a short drive east, is one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world, with terraced vineyards lining the steep hillsides along the river.
The Algarve in the south is Portugal’s beach country. Dramatic sandstone cliffs, sea caves, and hidden coves define the coastline. Praia da Marinha is regularly listed among the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The town of Lagos has a charming old center and easy access to some of the best cliff and cave kayaking in the world.
Food and Drink
Portuguese food is hearty, honest, and built on incredible seafood. Bacalhau (salt cod) is the national obsession, prepared in hundreds of different ways. Grilled sardines are a summer staple, especially during the June festivals in Lisbon. Francesinha, a meat sandwich from Porto layered with cheese and drenched in a spiced tomato and beer sauce, is indulgent and unforgettable. And the pasteis de nata, flaky custard tarts dusted with cinnamon, are the single best pastry in Europe.
Wine is excellent and affordable everywhere. Vinho verde (green wine), a light and slightly effervescent white, is perfect for warm afternoons. Port wine, in all its varieties from tawny to vintage, is a must try in Porto. And Portuguese table wines from the Alentejo and Douro regions consistently over deliver for their price.
Let Us Plan Your Portugal Trip
Portugal is one of the best value destinations in Europe and one of the most rewarding. Whether you want a romantic week in Lisbon and Porto, a beach holiday in the Algarve, or a wine focused tour through the Douro, we will design a trip that makes the most of everything this country has to offer.
