Portugal
 

PORTUGAL TRAVEL GUIDE

Recommended destinations to discover selected by highly-rated travel experts.

 
 
 

PORTUGAL

 

Why Travel to Portugal?

Portugal is a beautiful country situated on the Iberian Peninsula sharing with its Spanish neighbors. It is considered a top destination for its spectacular white sandy beaches, and renowned gastronomy where you will find some of the best food and wine in Europe!

In our Portugal travel guide, we recommend you taste the delicious freshly baked tarts “Pastéis de nata”, visit the country’s most popular wine regions. Of course, don’t forget about exploring Northern Portugal with its natural green breathtaking sceneries sharing similar features as its neighbor, Galicia.

A destination that is full of history with many ancient cultural influences, such as the mark left by the first Celtic civilizations on the Iberian Peninsula, the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Christians.

It has all that you dream of for the perfect slow-food walking experience!

5 Recommended places to visit that will make you fall in love with Portugal!


  1. Douro Valley: Called the enchanted valley for its beautiful landscape and for producing the famous sweet fortified wine, Port wine. But that is not the only type of wine found in the Douro Valley, as well you can taste young reds of the Douro DOC wine region, even white wines made from the Alvarinho grape variety. Lots of great wines to choose from for wine lovers looking at a new wine destination to explore. Pairing with the wines savour the delicious traditional local food in small villages deep in the Douro valley. Apart from nature and gastronomy in this area, you can visit historic churches and landmarks in the quaint town along the banks of the Douro River.

  2. PortoThe second largest city of Portugal behind Lisbon, home to some of the finest wines made in Portugal. Pop over the Douro River to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit some of the Port wine lodges including Port wine tasting to understand more about these world-renowned fortified wines. The city of Porto was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996 that´s why it is essential in our Portugal travel guide. You can visit lots of monuments and a very well restored old quarter of the city!

  3. Madeira: A place with a unique natural sub-tropic beauty where the largest laurel forest in the world can be found. Breathtaking dramatic green emerald sceneries combined with the blue of the sea makes it a magical land worth exploring. A trip to Madeira is not complete if you don't walk a few Levada walking trails that will make you disconnect from the city way of life. The gastronomy of Madeira Islands will bring your taste buds alive... Madeira wine, Bolo do Mel, Anona da Madeira, Milho Frito, Espetada, Bacalhau, Espada, Lapas, Bolo Caco, etc.

  4. Lisbon: The capital and the largest city in Portugal. A multicultural center, where all its visitors feel welcomed by its warm and pleasant atmosphere. A city that is full of important landmarks such as the Portuguese Renaissance tower, Belém Tower, the hilltop Moorish castle, Castelo de São Jorge, and much more. Book our half-day private tour and enjoy an expert sightseeing tour. Walk the streets of the Alfama quarter and get the real flavour of the city at the many bars and restaurants offering local gastronomy and wines. Venturing outside the city, you can spend a day visiting Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, Estoril, etc... Even take a wine-tasting tour in Colares or taste the Moscatel wines of Setúbal.  A must-see is the Arrábida National Park, a day well spent walking the cliff trails, or even get in the water on a kayak.

  5. Algarve: Situated on the southern coast of Portugal, a paradise you can enjoy exquisite beaches like Albufeira, Lagos, Portimão, etc. There is a wide range to choose from, from small and rarely visited beaches to huge desert beaches. Unwind and relax admiring the natural beauty that this region has to offer. Get active along the coastal trails a great way to keep in shape while enjoying the marvellous scenery. Not to forget for the food lover the amazing local food & wine that can be found.

Portugal’s rich and vast gastronomy, a foodie paradise

The Portuguese cuisine is back by traditional recipes handed down through the generations. Taste fresh fish and seafood caught along the Portuguese coasts, grilled fish like the sardinas (sardines) is a trademark of this land. Inland hearty dishes such as “Cozido À Portuguesa” are a must-taste. As well delicious cheeses worth trying, a great example is the mountain cheese from Serra da Estrela “Queijo da Serra”. Portugal is a true foodie paradise to be discovered and savoured!

Our food and walking experts have chosen the best tour operators offering tours, hotels, wineries... experiences based around food, wine and walking holidays in Portugal. You can check our full list of the best food tours to Portugal and recommended boutique hotels in the sections of this Portugal travel destination guide.

Capital of Portugal: Lisbon
Population: 10,32 million (2016)

 
  • Portugal

  • Currency: Euro

  • Prefix +351

 
 
 
Portugal
Portugal
Portugal
Portugal
 

THE 10 BEST DESTINATIONS TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover our top destinations recommended by our highly-rated tour experts.

 
 
 

RECOMMENDED TOURS, EXPERIENCES & TASTINGS

Our top 10 best tours, experiences & tastings in the destination selected by our experts. Slow Way Food Tours, Green Walking Holiday and Exclusive Food & Wine Tours/Tastings.

 
 
 
  7 Days / 6...
  3850,00 euros 
 

The True Flavours & Natural Beauty of Madeira...

 

Why are the Madeira Islands, Europe´s Best Island Destination in 2024? Discover it on a trip full of food and wine in Madeira: wine tastings and more!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
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5hrs. approx.  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Madeiran Cooking Class: Funchal Farmers Market...

 

There is no better way to learn about local gastronomy than spending time with a local chef, so on this tour, Chef Filipe will take us on a visit to the Farmers´ Market (Mercado dos Lavradores) in Funchal. Then Chef Filipe and his family open the doors to their Madeiran estate inviting us for an exclusive gastronomic experience.

 

  

 
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  Full Day...
  185,00 euros 
 

Wine Tour of Lush Vineyards of Madeira Islands...

 

The Madeiran fortified wine is one of the most enduring man-made creations in the world. A legacy of over 500 years, it is as famous as the stunning Madeira Island itself. Our full-day wine tour is your chance to taste this iconic wine, explore its production process, and soak in the island´s beauty. Join the tour for a day of wine, wonder, and discovery!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
See details
 
Half Day...  
85,00 euros  
 

Gastronomic Walking Tour of Funchal, discovering...

 

Welcome to Funchal! where we believe that gastronomy and wines are an integral part of the Madeiran culture. Our Food & Wine Walking Tour offers you the opportunity to taste the flavours of Funchal from a local perspective, immersing you in the spirit of Madeira!

 

  

 
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  60 mins....
  0,00 euros 
 

Camara de Lobos Fishing Port & Lookout Point at...

 

Explore the charming fishing village of Camara de Lobos on Madeira´s southern coast in this virtual tour! Discover its scenic harbor, rich history, and stunning views, ending with a tasting of two local drinks, Poncha and Nikita. Experience the beauty and flavors of Madeira from the comfort of your home!

 

  0 User Reviews

 
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60 mins approx.  
0,00 euros  
 

Visit Funchal Lavradores Farmers Market & Walk...

 

Explore Funchal´s vibrant streets and the lively Lavradores Farmers' Market from home! Wander through colorful alleys, iconic cafes, and breathtaking ocean views before diving into the market's fresh produce and seafood. Experience the heart of Madeira in this immersive virtual tour!

 

  

 
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  60 mins....
  0,00 euros 
 

Seixal Vineyard & Beach Walk on the Wild Northern...

 

Discover Madeira´s northern coast on a virtual tour of Seixal´s dramatic cliffs and terraced vineyards. Explore rugged trails, crashing waves, and the secluded black sand beach, all framed by stunning natural beauty. A perfect blend of Madeira´s wild landscapes and rich traditions awaits!

 

  0 User Reviews

 
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10 Days / 9...  
0,00 euros  
 

Algarve, Alentejo, and Lisbon Food & Wine...

 

Discover Portugal´s culinary and cultural highlights on a 10-day journey. Explore Lisbon, Lagos, Albernoa, and Évora, tasting local delicacies and experiencing the country´s vibrant heritage. End your trip back to Lisbon with free time to explore on your own.

 

  

 
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  Full Day...
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Levada Walk & Authentic Flavours of Madeira

 

Experience Madeira´s natural beauty and cuisine! After breakfast, explore the Levada da Serra do Faial with lush forests, and village panoramas, then enjoy a traditional Madeira lunch. Visit the Cristo Rei viewpoint for the stunning ocean and Funchal views, where you will have unforgettable memories of the Madeira Islands.

 

  0 User Reviews

 
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Full Day...  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

A Day of Fishing & Tasting Madeiran Rum

 

Begin the tour with a thrilling fishing boat trip to explore the Atlantic. After a morning of fishing, enjoy a delectable lunch, followed by a unique rum tasting at Madeira´s only tiki bar, celebrating the island´s historical connection with Hawaii. Savour the essence of Madeira´s rich history through carefully curated rums and toast to an unforgettable day on this enchanting island.

 

  

 
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TOP RESTAURANTS

The best places to eat selected by our foodie experts in the food destinations we cover.

 
 
 
  7 Days / 6...
  3850,00 euros 
 

The True Flavours & Natural Beauty of Madeira...

 

Why are the Madeira Islands, Europe´s Best Island Destination in 2024? Discover it on a trip full of food and wine in Madeira: wine tastings and more!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
See details
 
Full Day...  
185,00 euros  
 

Wine Tour of Lush Vineyards of Madeira Islands...

 

The Madeiran fortified wine is one of the most enduring man-made creations in the world. A legacy of over 500 years, it is as famous as the stunning Madeira Island itself. Our full-day wine tour is your chance to taste this iconic wine, explore its production process, and soak in the island´s beauty. Join the tour for a day of wine, wonder, and discovery!

 

  

 
See details
 
  Full Day...
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

A Day of Fishing & Tasting Madeiran Rum

 

Begin the tour with a thrilling fishing boat trip to explore the Atlantic. After a morning of fishing, enjoy a delectable lunch, followed by a unique rum tasting at Madeira´s only tiki bar, celebrating the island´s historical connection with Hawaii. Savour the essence of Madeira´s rich history through carefully curated rums and toast to an unforgettable day on this enchanting island.

 

  0 User Reviews

 
See details
 
Full-Day...  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Douro Valley: Tasting Port Wines at selected...

 

Experience the beauty of Douro Valley, Portugal´s wine haven. Explore terraced vineyards, taste exquisite Port wines at traditional Quinta wine farms, and celebrate the art of winemaking in this iconic region. Join our wine adventure through history and flavours!

 

  

 
See details
 
  Half Day...
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Traditional Lunch with a Local Host in Madeira

 

Step into a world of gastronomic wonders, a Typical Lunch with a Local Host in Madeira. Enjoy a 3-course menu that includes seasonal local products, showcasing the best of the Madeira Islands, with the Madeiran kebab as the star dish. From a welcoming sip to an insightful tour of agricultural production.

 

  0 User Reviews

 
See details
 
Half Day...  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Private Historic Porto & Wine Lodge Tour

 

Walking tour of Porto to discover its main attractions like the historic Palacio de la Bolsa and the Se Cathedral. Cross the bridge to Vilanova de Gaia for a tour and port wine tasting at one of the finest wine lodges. Finish the day with a delightful lunch at a wine lodge with panoramic views of Porto.

 

  

 
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RECOMMENDED HOTELS

Our travel experts have researched the best hotels in the destinations we cover. Stay in unique accommodations from modern city centre hotels to wine country manor house with amazing food & wine. If you can not find a suitable option just let our experts know and we will suggest something different for you.

 
 
 
  4 Star
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Aqua Natura Bay

 

Explore Aqua Natura Bay: a 4-star retreat in Porto Moniz, Madeira, offering stunning views, access to Natural Swimming Pools, and a Wellness Center for ultimate relaxation.

 

  1 User Reviews

 
See details
 
4 Star  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

 

Discover Funchal´s charm at a historic boutique hotel near the Palace of Jesuits. Welcome to an exceptional stay in the heart of the city!

 

  

 
See details
 
 
 




TRAVEL JOURNAL

In our Travel Journal read posts and articles about upcoming tours, expert reviews of hotels, wineries, destinations, etc...

 
 
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