Portugal has so much to offer as a destination — beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, interesting culture, delicious food and wine, and friendly locals. Best of all, it is affordable compared to other popular European destinations. Experience the magic of Portugal on a Portugal Walking Adventure or Portugal Bike Adventure. If your are planning a trip to Portugal, here is our guide to the bucket list as well as off beaten places to visit. You may also like to read Best Luxury Accommodations in Portugal.
Sintra
The charming town of Sintra is nestled in the pine-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra mountains west of Lisbon. Its woody granite mountain setting is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place is one where you live out your fairytale fantasy known for its collection of castles, most notably the colourful Palácio Nacional da Pena (Pena Palace) and the more classical Quinta da Regaleira. While many come to see the castles, be sure to spend some time in the fairy-tale town. Walk through Sintra’s medieval streets and see its glorious old houses and craft shops. Stop by its famous bakery Piriquita and try the local specialties, travesseiros, a mouth-watering puff pastry filled with almond cream. Discover this fairytale wonderland on our Best of Portugal Luxury Walk from Lisbon, Porto, Sintra & Douro River.
Douro Valley
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Douro Valley is Portugal’s premier wine region which includes Barca de Alva, one of the oldest wine regions in the world. This cultural hotspot is a must-visit for wine lovers and those looking to admire the serene Portuguese countryside. There is no better Portugal experience than to enjoy the freshly produced wine while admiring the lush, rolling hills all around. It is also a great day trip from Porto. Wine tastings are available at dozens of cellar doors and in Vila Nova de Gaia, you can visit the lodges where the iconic Port wine is fortified. Unearth the breathtaking Douro Valley on our Northern Portugal & Douro Valley Cycle from ancient Porto & Valley Vineyards.
Lisbon
The capital city of Lisbon tops just about every traveler's Portugal bucket list. One of the prettiest cities in Portugal, Lisbon is a mosaic of winding streets, open plazas, charming churches and miradouro lookouts waiting to be discovered. There’s beauty around every corner in Lisbon, whether it’s the rustic glamour you find in historic Alfama, the paradisiacal beauty of the Tagus River, or the grand charm of landmarks such as the Tower of Belem, one of the oldest of Portugal’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the best things about Lisbon is that there are various viewpoints around the city so you can admire the beauty from above. Lisbon is the perfect place to visit if you are seeking stunning architecture and a plethora of culture and history. Some of the best things to do in Lisbon are the Alfama District, Rua Augusta, Praça de Comércio, Monastery Jeronimos, and much more! Uncover Lisbon on two wheels with our Portugal Bike Adventure from Lisbon to beaches, castles and vineyards.
Madeira
The largest island, Madeira, offers an off beaten and remote part of Portugal and boasts some of the best hiking trails in the country making it a true hiker’s paradise. The canyons, impressive landscapes and waterfalls that are hidden in the lush forests and mountains can’t be seen from the road. Especially the levada walks are very popular. There are about 2500 kms of levadas (irrigation canals) that make a uique walking experience. Starting at Funchal, wander the exquisite harbour gardens and sample local wines at the Madeira cellars. Circumnavigate the island, stopping to wander the narrow streets of the various fishing villages, soak in the lava pools in Porto Moniz, and spot whales and dolphins in the clear waters off the southern coast (best from April to October). The island is crowned with the ominous Pico do Arieiro, a volcanic peak that rises high above the clouds and makes the top mountain hike in Madeira. Venture on our Self-Guided Discovery Walk of Madeira including summiting the two highest peaks on the island.
The Azores
Located 1,500km west of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean you’ll find The Azores, a stunning archipelago known for its natural beauty and volcanic landscape. The autonomous region of Azores is made up of nine islands located off the coast of Portugal and North Africa. Known for their dramatic landscapes and outdoor activities, the Azores is perfect for outdoor and nature lovers. Extinct craters and basin-like lakes, towering waterfalls and hiking paths set atop verdant ridges are some of the most recognisable landscapes that are not to be missed in Azores. If you enjoy hiking around volcanoes, relaxing in geothermal hot springs, spending time in the great outdoors, and exploring local cuisine, Sao Miguel, Azores is the perfect place to visit. The Azores islands are known for having breathtaking scenery, diverse plant life, and striking black sand beaches. The best way to get to Sao Miguel island in the Azores is to fly in to Ponta Delgada airport. There are regular flights from Lisbon, Porto, Funchal, and other large airports around Europe. Embark on the more off beaten path of Portugal on our Sao Miguel Deluxe Walk.
Algarve
The southern Algarve region is the jewel of Portugal, boasting a breathtaking coastline, epic caves and archways, year-round great weather, and home to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Portugal as well as the country’s most dramatically beautiful stretch of coastline. From the charming streets of old town of Lagos to the cliffy Ponta da Piedade, with its natural sea arches and rock formations that frame picture-perfect Atlantic Ocean views, The Algarve may be popular, but there’s a good reason for that. Spend your days hiking, at the countless beaches, and wandering the cobbled streets in the balmy afternoon sun. It is also home to lush green mountains, oak forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife that make a perfect adventure to explore by foot or on two wheels. Discover this beach haven on our Luxury Portugal Bike Adventure.
Porto
Porto is a beautiful city in Portugal that make an ideal destination for lovers of culture, history, and stunning architecture. The city has a magical vibe and is known for its amazing Douro River cruise and port wine cellars. As one of the most beautiful places in Portugal, Porto is full of things you must see. Some of the best things to see and do include the Majestic Cafe, Sāo Bento train station, The Clergios Church, and Livraria Lello. One of the most beautiful sections of Porto is the riverside, where rows and rows of houses bejewelled with Azulejos tiles sit pressed together. Get an overview of the city on a cruise tour before wandering the plazas and streets on foot, stopping off every now and then for a spot of Fado music and a libation at one of the many Port wine cellars. From river life to biking paradise explore the best of Porto in style on our Luxury Douro River Cruise and Cycle Spain to Portugal.
