Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city. From imposing São Jorge Castle, the view encompasses the old city’s pastel-colored buildings, Tagus Estuary and Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. Nearby, the National Azulejo Museum displays 5 centuries of decorative ceramic tiles. Just outside Lisbon is a string of Atlantic beaches, from Cascais to Estoril.
Best Time to Visit Lisbon:
Spring (March to May): During these months, Lisbon enjoys mild temperatures and fewer tourists. The city comes alive with blooming jacaranda trees, especially in late May and early June, adding vibrant purple hues to the streets. This period also offers lower accommodation rates compared to the peak summer months.
Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, characterized by warm temperatures and numerous festivals. June, in particular, is notable for the Santos Populares celebrations, honoring St. Anthony, Lisbon's patron saint. However, August can be particularly crowded, and some local businesses may close as residents take their vacations.
Autumn (September to October): Similar to spring, autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It's an excellent time to explore the city's attractions without the summer crowds.
Winter (November to February): While cooler and wetter, Lisbon's winter is milder compared to many European cities. This off-peak season means fewer tourists and potentially lower accommodation prices
Getting to Portugal depends on your starting location and preferred mode of travel. Here are the main ways to reach Portugal:
Major Airports:
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) – Main international hub
Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) – Best for northern Portugal
Faro Airport (FAO) – Best for the Algarve (southern region)
Direct Flights: Available from major cities worldwide (Europe, Americas, Africa, and some parts of Asia).
Airlines: TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, British Airways, Iberia, and more.
From Spain:
Madrid → Lisbon (overnight train "Lusitania")
Vigo → Porto (regional train)
Companies like FlixBus, Alsa, and Rede Expressos run services from Spain and other European countries.
You can drive into Portugal from Spain via multiple border crossings. The highways are well-maintained, and toll roads are common.
Lisbon – Explore the capital city with landmarks like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Tram 28.
Porto – Visit the Ribeira District, Dom Luís I Bridge, and taste world-famous Port wine.
Algarve – Enjoy stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns like Lagos and Albufeira.
Sintra – Discover the fairytale-like Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
Douro Valley – Take a scenic cruise through Portugal’s famous wine region.
Madeira – A paradise for nature lovers with breathtaking hikes, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
Azores – An island getaway with crater lakes, hot springs, and whale watching.
Évora – A UNESCO World Heritage city with a Roman Temple, bone chapel, and medieval streets.
Óbidos – A charming medieval village with cobbled streets and a well-preserved castle.
Coimbra – Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities with a stunning library.
✔ Wine tasting in Porto or Douro Valley 🍷
✔ Surfing in Peniche or Ericeira 🏄♂️
✔ Hiking in Madeira or the Azores 🌿
✔ Taking a historic tram ride in Lisbon 🚋
✔ Dolphin & whale watching in the Azores 🐋
✔ Exploring castles in Sintra & Óbidos 🏰
✔ Canoeing in the Algarve’s Benagil Cave 🚣♂️
✔ Fado music night in Lisbon or Coimbra 🎶
✔ Attending a football match (Benfica, Sporting CP, or FC Porto) ⚽
✔ Trying a Portuguese cooking class 🥘
Luxury:
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz (Lisbon) – 5-star experience with city views.
The Yeatman (Porto) – A stunning wine hotel with a view of the Douro River.
Mid-Range:
LX Boutique Hotel (Lisbon) – Stylish and central.
Memmo Alfama (Lisbon) – Rooftop terrace with great views.
Budget:
Yes! Lisbon Hostel – A top-rated budget option.
Selina Porto – A great spot for digital nomads.
Unique Stays:
Quinta da Pacheca (Douro Valley) – Stay in a wine barrel hotel 🍷
Pestana Palácio do Freixo (Porto) – A former palace turned into a hotel.
Must-Try Foods:
🥘 Bacalhau à Brás – Classic codfish dish.
🥖 Francesinha – Porto’s legendary sandwich.
🐙 Polvo à Lagareiro – Octopus with olive oil & garlic.
🥮 Pastel de Nata – Famous custard tart.
🐷 Bifana – Pork sandwich.
🍷 Vinho Verde – Light, refreshing wine.
Top Restaurants:
Time Out Market (Lisbon) – A gourmet food hall with the best of Portugal.
Taberna da Rua das Flores (Lisbon) – Traditional, small, and super popular.
Cervejaria Ramiro (Lisbon) – Legendary seafood & garlic shrimp.
Casa Guedes (Porto) – Famous for their pork sandwiches.
O Paparico (Porto) – Michelin-starred fine dining.
A Cevicheria (Lisbon) – Amazing seafood & ceviche.
Portuguese people are warm & friendly. Saying "Bom dia" (Good morning) and "Obrigado/a" (Thank you) goes a long way!
Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.
Portugal is very affordable compared to other Western European countries.
Public transport is good in big cities, but renting a car is best for exploring small towns.
Fado music is a deep and emotional music genre unique to Portugal. Listen to it live in Lisbon or Coimbra!
Avoid tourist traps by eating where the locals go. If a restaurant is filled with locals, it's probably great!
✔ Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) & Fall (September–October) for great weather and fewer crowds.
✔ Currency: Euro (€)
✔ Language: Portuguese (but English is widely spoken in tourist areas).
✔ Safety: Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe!