Why Portugal Should Be Your Next Travel Destination: tips for International Visitors

From sun-drenched beaches and centuries-old castles to buzzing food markets and soulful Fado music, Portugal is a country that effortlessly weaves tradition and modernity. Often overshadowed by larger European neighbors, Portugal has become one of Europe’s most exciting and accessible travel destinations, without losing its charm or authenticity.

Whether you’re planning a summer escape, a cultural deep dive, or a gastronomic adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Portugal.

A Snapshot of Portugal

• Capital: Lisbon

• Population: ~10 million

• Language: Portuguese (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Time Zone: GMT (same as the UK in winter, 1 hour behind Central Europe)

• Climate: Mediterranean (mild winters, hot summers)

Getting There and Around

Portugal is well-connected by air, with major international airports in Lisbon, Porto, Faro (Algarve), and Funchal (Madeira). Budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet, as well as legacy carriers like TAP Air Portugal, operate frequent routes.

Once there:

• Trains: Comfortable and scenic; great for Lisbon-Porto or Lisbon-Coimbra routes.

• Buses: Extensive network, especially for small towns.

• Car rentals: Ideal for exploring remote beaches or the countryside.

• Metro & Trams: Lisbon and Porto have efficient systems (and charming vintage trams).

• Private transportation:  For those seeking privacy, comfort, and peace of mind, Amiroad will certainly be the best choice.

Must-Visit Cities

Lisbon

The hilly, sunlit capital blends colorful streets with cultural riches.

• Explore Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood.

• Visit the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.

• Ride Tram 28 through narrow, picturesque streets.

• Enjoy rooftop bars and riverfront nightlife in Cais do Sodré.

Porto

This northern gem is home to port wine, azulejos, and riverside beauty.

• Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge for views over the Douro River.

• Visit a port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia.

• Explore the historic Ribeira district.

• Don’t miss Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.

Coimbra

A city of students and history.

• Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

• The Joanina Library is a Baroque masterpiece.

• Traditional student songs add to the city’s unique ambiance.

Évora

For ancient history and architectural beauty.

• Visit the Roman Temple and the eerie Chapel of Bones.

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a walk through time.

Funchal (Madeira) & Ponta Delgada (Azores)

For those craving natural beauty and adventure:

• Hike Madeira’s levadas or swim in natural lava pools.

• Explore the volcanic landscapes and lakes of the Azores.

Beaches & Nature

Portugal boasts over 800 km of coastline.

• Algarve: Golden cliffs, turquoise water, and sunny beach towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira.

• Costa Vicentina: Wild and dramatic, perfect for surfers and nature lovers.

• Comporta & Troia: Chic, quieter beach escapes just south of Lisbon.

• Nazare: Home to some of the world’s biggest waves.

For nature:

• Peneda-Gerês National Park: Portugal’s only national park.

• Serra da Estrela: Mountains, snow in winter, and stunning vistas.

• Douro Valley: Rolling vineyards and river cruises.

 Food & Wine

Portugal is a paradise for food lovers.

• Seafood: Grilled sardines, octopus, clams (amêijoas à Bulhão Pato), codfish (bacalhau cooked 1000 ways).

• Petiscos: Portuguese small plates — try chouriço, cheeses, and croquettes.

• Pastries: Don’t leave without a pastel de nata (custard tart), preferably from Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon.

• Wines:

  • Port wine from Porto.

  • Vinho Verde from the north.

  • Alentejo reds for rich, earthy flavor.

  • Madeira wine for something unique.

 Culture & Heritage

• Fado Music: Traditional, melancholic, and deeply Portuguese — best experienced live in a small tavern in Alfama or Coimbra.

• Festivals:

  • Santo António in Lisbon (June): Street parties, grilled sardines, and dancing.

  • São João in Porto: Bonfires, fireworks, and plastic hammer fights.

  • Carnival (February): Particularly vibrant in Madeira and Torres Vedras.

• UNESCO Sites: Portugal has 17, including Sintra, Tomar, Alcobaça, and Guimarães.

Shopping & Souvenirs

• Cork products: Wallets, bags, shoes — all sustainably made.

• Azulejos: Hand-painted tiles.

• Ceramics and pottery: Particularly from Alentejo.

• Port wine: Easy to transport and always appreciated.

 Practical Tips

• English is widely spoken, especially in cities and tourist areas.

• Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.

• Safety: Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world.

• Internet & SIMs: Free Wi-Fi is common; tourist SIM cards are cheap and reliable.

• Cost of living: Cheaper than most Western European countries.

• Pace of life: Relaxed — meals are long, shops may close for lunch, and time runs on “Portuguese rhythm.”

Why Portugal Now?

• It offers diverse experiences in a compact country — beaches, cities, history, cuisine, nature, all within short distances.

• Less crowded than Italy or France, but just as rich in culture and experiences.

• A place where modern innovation meets timeless tradition.

• Whether you’re a backpacker, a honeymooner, or a remote worker, Portugal has something for you.

In Portugal, you don’t just visit — you feel.
From the haunting beauty of Fado to the salty breeze of the Atlantic, every moment is an invitation to slow down, savor, and discover something unforgettable.

Ready to fall in love with Portugal?