An Avantian's Insider Tips to Portugal

I’d long dreamed of visiting Portugal. Friends, colleagues, travel shows, even random conversations with fellow travelers had painted a glowing picture of this sun-kissed corner of Europe. So when my family set out to plan a vacation to celebrate a milestone birthday, Portugal was the destination of choice – and it absolutely lived up to the hype.

Though we packed a lot into our trip, I can already say with confidence: I’ll be back. Portugal isn’t a one-and-done destination. It’s repeatable, rich in culture, charm, and coastal magic. From the storybook streets of Porto to the sun-drenched cliffs of the Algarve, here’s what we experienced – and what I’d wholeheartedly recommend.

PORTO

Our adventure began in the famed port town and northern gem that sits beautifully at the mouth of the Douro River. Porto feels timeless – its cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops, and colorful azulejo tiles set the tone for a city that blends history with a laid-back coastal vibe.

We stayed at the Pestana Vintage Hotel, a dreamy property right on the Ribeira waterfront. You simply can’t beat the location – imagine waking up to boats bobbing on the river, street musicians playing nearby, and the aroma of fresh pastries wafting from nearby cafés. The hotel itself is steeped in character, set in a series of 16th-century buildings with modern comfort and vintage charm.

While in Porto, we indulged in a port and chocolate pairing – a local specialty and a must for flavor-seeking travelers. We also took a walking tour that was nothing short of magical. Our guide, a charismatic local with family ties to one of the region’s renowned winemakers, seemed to know everyone. She introduced us to shopkeepers, arranged discounts on handmade goods, and gave us the kind of behind-the-scenes experience you can’t plan for.

One of her tips led us to a boat excursion up the Douro River, which we booked for that same afternoon. Gliding through the water as the sun hit the hillsides felt like stepping into a postcard.

On our free afternoon, I opted to take an Uber out to the beach, which is only about 15 minutes away and costs under €10. The nearby beachside town offers beautiful views, seafood restaurants, and a welcome break from the cobblestone climbs.

If you go to Porto, make sure to build in an extra day just to wander. Porto is full of charming corners and boutiques to discover. Just be prepared for uphill walking because it’s very hilly. We stayed three nights, which was enough to get a feel for the city, but I’d gladly stay longer next time to explore the nightlife or visit nearby Douro Valley.

PORTO TO LISBON (BY TRAIN)

We boarded a scenic train from Porto to Lisbon, enjoying the relaxed pace and countryside views. This is an easy transition – we also arranged private transfers to and from the rail station to make it seamless for us, but everything is easy to navigate even without. Arriving in the capital, the shift in energy was immediate. Lisbon is vibrant, cosmopolitan, and buzzing with life.

We checked into the Pousada de Lisboa, a Small Luxury Hotel in the heart of the city. This place is a gem. It feels like a boutique museum, with elegant architecture and a location that puts you within walking distance of both the riverfront and countless shops and restaurants. I loved sipping drinks at the chic outdoor bar, watching the world go by.

With only two nights in Lisbon, we hit the ground running. One of the most memorable experiences was a tuk-tuk ride with an iconic woman dressed head to toe in pink. If you see her – hop in. She’s a legend with a flawless music playlist, insider stories, and tips.

Dinner at Solar dos Presuntos was another highlight. It’s a classic Portuguese restaurant serving traditional fare in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Make reservations – it’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

LISBON TO ALGARVE (BY CAR)

After Lisbon, we rented a car and headed south toward the Algarve. This leg of the journey was about freedom: stopping where we liked and exploring at our own pace.

We paused overnight in Porto Covo, a small, picturesque town on the southwest coast. Think whitewashed houses, blue trim, quiet beaches, and a relaxed, authentic vibe. We stumbled upon a newly opened restaurant with a Michelin-trained chef (Figo) – another unplanned surprise that reminded us how rewarding it is to wander.

We landed in Albufeira, the heart of the Algarve. If Porto feeds the soul and Lisbon excites the mind, the Algarve soothes you completely. Picture turquoise waters, towering rust-colored cliffs, and golden beaches that stretch on and on.

We took a boat excursion to the Benagil caves – a surreal experience where nature feels like sculpture. Word of advice: book a morning tour. We went out in the evening and the seas turned rough. We learned from locals that the early boat typically boasts calmer waters. Despite the choppy waves, it was still beautiful.

FINAL THOUGHTS AND TIPS

Don’t skip Porto – This northern city is a highlight of any Portuguese itinerary.
Eat a Pastel de Belém – These flaky custard tarts are famous for a reason. This particular shop is located just outside of Lisbon. Skip the line by going early in the morning or ordering from the to-go counter on the left side of the building. We ordered a stack at just €1.50 a pastry, and ate them at the park across the street.
Pack good walking shoes – Lisbon and Porto are very hilly and you’ll be on your feet a lot!
Prioritize boat excursions – Whether on the Douro River or in the Algarve, being on the water offers a whole new perspective.
Leave room for downtime – Some of our favorite memories came from slow mornings and spontaneous detours.
Visit in May or Early June – The weather is warm, but the crowds haven’t peaked yet.

By the way, the Porto, Lisbon, and Algarve hotels and experiences are available through Avanti! You can even select a curated, pre-made package that will connect the dots across destinations. Discover an even wider array of Portugal travel options with our e-brochure:

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