Is Portugal a good place for a tour?
Home to mile upon mile of stunning coastline peppered with traditional fishing villages and lush vineyards, Portugal is one of the most loved European destinations. Because of the wide range of outdoor pursuits available, activity holidays in Portugal are great for families as well as adventure seekers. From the sun-drenched Algarve and the lively city of Lisbon to the terraced vineyards and almond groves of the Douro Valley, our Portugal trips are filled with beautiful scenery and local culture.
Where's the best place to holiday in Portugal?
Portugal offers a vast variety of options, so the best place to holiday is a matter of personal taste and opinion. That’s why our Portugal tours feature a wide range of trips including walking and cycling holidays, scenic and coastal treks, and the opportunity to discover local culture and architecture. Whether you’re seeking city sights, secluded beaches or adventure holidays in Portugal, this sunny European country will leave you inspired and in awe.
What is the best time of year to go to Portugal?
Portugal tours are popular all year thanks to the country’s relatively mild climate, but the best time to travel depends on the locations you are visiting, the type of holiday you are going on, and your weather expectations.
The Algarve enjoys almost year-round sunshine with roughly 300 days of sun. It sees little rain – most of which falls between November and March. Temperatures here can reach up to the mid-30s during the summer months, while further north you can generally expect cooler temperatures that are ideal for embarking on activity holidays in Portugal.
Spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions throughout the country, although there is a higher chance of rain at these times of year. It’s worth factoring this in when planning a trip to Portugal.
How many days do you need to see Portugal?
To get the most out of your Portugal trip, we recommend around one to two weeks, depending on your itinerary. Our Portugal tours range from seven to 15 days to ensure you can fully experience the sights, culture and scenery on offer. Our carefully planned itineraries allow you plenty of time to immerse yourself in the local area and discover the depths of the region.
What do I need to pack for a trip to Portugal?
This will largely depend on the area of the country you’re travelling to, the time of year, and the nature of your Portugal trip. If you’re taking a walking tour then loose clothing, sturdy shoes and hiking equipment are essential items. Bikes are included with our cycling holidays, so you’ll just need to pack any clothing that will keep you comfortable in the expected conditions.
As well as any required paperwork, passport and insurance documents, you might want to consider packing a charger, SPF, sunglasses, swimwear and waterproofs.
What should I wear on a holiday in Portugal?
The time of year and your chosen tour will determine what clothes you wear while on holiday. Generally, you’ll find that most residents and visitors stick to a casual dress style with clothing similar to that what you would wear at home. If you’re travelling during the hot summer months, it’s a good idea to take loose-fitting items to ensure you stay comfortable, such as shorts, T-shirts and a hat.
Is Portugal expensive to visit?
Because of Portugal’s location in western Europe, holidays here can be relatively inexpensive compared to countries further afield. Once you’re there, you’ll also find food, drink and many activities less expensive than in other countries. But if you want to enjoy premium trips and accommodation on Portugal tours, you’ll have to spend a bit extra – as you would anywhere.
Is Portugal safe to travel to?
On the whole, Portugal is a very safe country to travel to. The main safety factors to be aware of are theft, especially in tourist hotspots, and safety when swimming in the sea. As you would in your home country, make sure to keep valuables secure and be vigilant when using roads and the country’s beaches.
Is Portugal friendly to foreigners?
You’ll find on trips to Portugal that the local people are extremely friendly and welcoming. Many of our trips include immersive stays at traditional villages where the locals are keen to introduce you to their way of life.
Are beaches better in Spain or Portugal?
Both Spain and Portugal are blessed with beautiful beaches and a warm Mediterranean climate, but it depends on what you’re looking for if you’re going to compare the two. Generally, Spain enjoys warmer waters, but Portugal comes with epic scenery and panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean. The giant waves from the Atlantic also mean that Portugal is great for surfers. Another of the main benefits of the beaches in Portugal is that they tend to be less crowded than those in Spain.
Does Portugal have good hiking?
Owing to its picturesque coastline, moderate temperatures and rural landscapes, Portugal is ideal for hiking. We offer a wide range of guided and self-guided walking trips to Portugal that lead you through some of the most stunning scenery to viewpoints where you can take in uninterrupted panoramas.
Is the Algarve walkable?
The Algarve boasts well-marked paths that meander along the coast and through ancient villages and mountains. There are many walking routes to explore, but you may want to hire a car so you can drive to a different area each day.
Where is the best hiking in Portugal?
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to walking in Portugal, from dramatic coastal routes to quieter inland trails. Although we’re in love with the entire country, these are a few of our favourite places for walking trips in Portugal:
Madeira– With sprawling coastlines, imposing mountains and a sub-tropical climate, Madeira makes an ideal year-round hiking destination. Nature lovers will be in their element with the 120 endemic species of flora and fauna that can be found here.
The Azores– This scenic archipelago is made up of ancient walking trails once used by locals and their horses to transport agricultural produce. Having been restored over the years, these paths now lead hikers among breath-taking landscapes.
Douro Valley– When walking in Portugal, the Douro Valley is high on the list of places to explore. The UNESCO-listed valley is home to the country’s premier wine region which is believed to date back to 2,000 years. As well as walking through the terraced vineyards and verdant countryside, you’ll learn about the region’s history before sampling the wines.
The Wild West– Known as Portugal’s Wild West, the Sagres Peninsula comprises golden beaches, wildflower meadows and scented pine forests where you can spot endemic and migratory species of birds circling overhead. The Rota Vicentina is a network of trails that winds up to the Cabo de Sao Vicente lighthouse where you can enjoy spellbinding views.
Where can I walk in Portugal?
Walking in Portugal is a great way to discover the tucked-away nooks and crannies as well as the more popular sights. With our Portugal tours, you can head to the Algarve for dramatic coastal trails or visit Madeira to witness magnificent wildlife. Porto is also a great place to explore on foot with its laid-back pavement cafes, baroque churches and famous wine cellars.
Is Portugal good for backpacking?
Portugal is one of the best countries in Europe for backpacking owing to its warm climate, beautiful beaches and lesser-known islands where you’ll discover hidden secrets. From the Algarve coastline and Faro’s curious old town to the vibrant capital of Lisbon, Portugal is every backpacker’s dream.
Is Portugal good for cycling?
Cycling in Portugal is an exhilarating experience that allows you to explore further. Whether you want to take it easy on a tour of the Porto coast or step it up a notch as you steadily climb mountain passes before freewheeling back down with the Atlantic breeze in your hair, cycling holidays in Portugal are second to none.
Can you cycle on roads in Portugal?
Whether you enjoy one of our guided or self-guided cycling holidays in Portugal, we aim to steer you along quieter and well-maintained roads wherever possible. But as with any road cycling, you need to always be cautious.
Where can I find the latest travel advice for my Portugal trip
You can find up-to-date Portugal travel information from the UK government online.
