Sustainable Travel in Portugal

Portugal, with its breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and pristine beaches, has become a top travel destination. But as tourism grows, so does the need for responsible travel. Sustainable tourism in Portugal is on the rise, offering eco-conscious travelers the opportunity to explore in a way that minimizes their environmental impact. From eco-friendly accommodations to green transport options, here’s how to enjoy Portugal while preserving its natural beauty.

1. Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Choosing a sustainable hotel in Portugal is one of the best ways to travel responsibly. Many accommodations are adopting green initiatives, such as reducing energy consumption, using solar power, and promoting local products. Some of the top eco-friendly hotels in Portugal include:

• Areias do Seixo (Santa Cruz) – A luxury, eco-conscious retreat using renewable energy and organic farming.
• Herdade da Matinha (Alentejo) – A charming countryside lodge with a strong focus on sustainability and local culture.
• Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort (Azores) – A paradise for nature lovers with sustainable architecture and ocean conservation efforts.

Look for accommodations with Green Key certification, which guarantees they follow environmental best practices.

2. Travel Green: Eco-Friendly Transportation in Portugal

Ditch the car and embrace low-carbon travel options to reduce your carbon footprint:

• Amiroad Luxury Transports electric fleet: private transportation can also be eco-friendly! Because this is one of our major concerns as well, we have luxury electric vehicles.
• Public Transport: Portugal has an excellent train and bus network. Opt for the scenic Alfa Pendular train connecting Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
• Cycling: Many cities, like Lisbon and Porto, have dedicated cycling lanes and bike rental services.
• Walking Tours: Explore historic neighborhoods on foot with guided or self-guided walking tour

3. Support Local & Sustainable Dining

One of the joys of visiting Portugal is its incredible cuisine. Choose restaurants that focus on:

• Locally Sourced Ingredients: Farm-to-table restaurants like Prado (Lisbon) and Taberna do Largo (Porto) serve seasonal, organic dishes.
• Sustainable Seafood: Follow the WWF’s Fish Guide Portugal to ensure you’re eating responsibly sourced seafood.
• Zero-Waste & Plant-Based Dining: Many vegan and vegetarian restaurants, such as Ao 26 – Vegan Food Project (Lisbon), focus on sustainability and reducing waste.

4. Experience Nature Responsibly

Portugal’s diverse landscapes are perfect for eco-conscious outdoor activities:

• Hiking & Nature Walks: Explore trails in Peneda-Gerês National Park or Rota Vicentina, a stunning coastal route.
• Wildlife Conservation: Join dolphin and whale-watching tours in the Azores with operators committed to marine conservation.
• Eco-Friendly Surfing: Choose surf schools with sustainable practices, like Surfers Lodge Peniche, which focuses on ocean protection.

Always follow the Leave No Trace principles by respecting nature, staying on trails, and minimizing waste.

5. Reduce Waste & Embrace Slow Travel

To minimize your impact while traveling in Portugal:

• Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is safe to drink, reducing plastic waste.
• Say No to Single-Use Plastics: Use reusable shopping bags and avoid disposable straws and cutlery.
• Choose Longer Stays: Instead of hopping between cities, spend more time in each destination to reduce transport emissions and immerse yourself in local culture.