Portugal - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
Sitting in the shorelines of the south western coast of Europe, Portugal is a small country with a wide variety of things to offer you. Known for its splendor and serenity, it is pleasant all throughout the year with soft springs, mild winters and the warm summers getting softened by the sea breeze. Your trip to Portugal will be filled with delicious sea food, good wine, music and fluently English speaking and friendly locals will make your stay easier, more pleasant and fun.
Lisbon Oceanarium with over 8000 sea creatures, the sacred Jerónimos Monastery, Castle of Sao Jorge with its magical silhouette, white sands of Falesia Beach and world famous Lello Bookstore are few of the most loved destinations in Portugal among tourists. Lush greenery, vineyards, port wine, vintage architecture are other amazing things which can be easily found in Portugal.
Tour Highlights
- Stare in awe at the intricate interior of the Church of São Francisco in Porto
- Surf some of the best waves in Europe at Portugal’s seaside
- Take a ride on Lisbon’s famous yellow Tram 28
- Find magic at Livraria Lello, a bookstore said to have inspired J K Rowling’s Hogwarts
- Explore the grandeur of Quinta de Regaleira in Sintra
- Take in the view from the colourful grounds of Pena Palace
Travel Tips
- When eating in a Portuguese restaurant, you will likely be offered bread and accompaniments like cheese and olives when you first sit down. This is not free, so politely decline if not interested.
- Carry cash with you in Portugal. Some smaller restaurants (where you find the best food) may only accept cash or may charge fees for credit card use.
- Portugal has its own genre of music: fado. These dramatic songs of longing are often performed in clubs, restaurants and chapels around the country, particularly in Lisbon.
- July and August can be unbearably hot in Portugal. For plenty of sunshine but tolerable heat, schedule your holiday to Portugal during May, June or September.
- Like in many European countries, the Portuguese enjoy long dinners and tend to eat quite late, often between the hours of 8pm and 10pm.
Portugal has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Portugal before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in the country, do check out our Portugal Travel Guide for more information.