How to Travel Portugal

Introduction

I visited Portugal in April 2024. I spent two weeks in total: one week in Porto and one week in Lisbon.

In short, you should do everything you can to get to Portugal. It is such a hot pot of different cultures and experiences, and it has an amazing mix of landscapes, from the beaches to the mountains.

An oddity I found is that Portuguese culture is the closest European culture to Australia; the laid-back vibe of the people, the friendliness, and the lack of rushing feel like Australia, especially in coastal towns away from big cities. Get there ASAP.

About Portugal

Portugal is a country on the Iberian Peninsula of Europe. It is completely surrounded by Spain, with very close water crossings to North Africa. Due to this, Portugal's culture and language have been influenced by both Spain, which has been its nearest rival and enemy for most of its history, and northern Africa, specifically the Islamic cultures of North Africa.

You likely know Portugal from its history of ocean exploration and colonisation. During the 15th and 16th centuries, its empire was the largest in the world, dominating the ocean and establishing colonies all over the world, most notably Brazil, whose primary language today is still Portuguese.

In modern times, Portugal's economy has dropped off. Major events leading up to and during the 19th Century resulted in Portugal losing much of the power they had established with their empire. Additionally, becoming a dictatorship during the 20th Century had a massive and lasting impact on the nation's success. Today, Portugal is struggling with one of the smallest economies in Europe and a massive housing crisis, which I could nearly say about every country in 2024.

Overall, the people of Portugal are very resilient. Their culture, especially in modern times, is built on supporting the little guy and fighting for what is right. Liberation Day isn't just a celebration of their history but a continued stand for growing the nation correctly.

Things to know

Portugal is a very easy country to visit. It has great transport links from most major cities in Spain. Combined with major international airports serviced by most European airlines, it is easy and affordable to get to Portugal.

Language-wise, most people speak English; it is part of their schooling to learn it. Personally, I only ran into one situation where a server in a shop didn't speak English (I was with a Spanish speaker, luckily, so that helped). Don't think that because you know Spanish, you can get away without thinking about the language; Portuguese is considerably different from Spanish. Think of it as a mix of Spanish and Arabic, sometimes sounding a bit Eastern Bloc.

Overall, it is an easy and safe country to get around. If you base yourself in one of the major cities, you will have plenty of chances and opportunities to take day trips into different areas and see the rest of the country.

Must-Do Experiences

There are two main entries for must-see experiences, but they are definitely worth it. I suggest doing these if you only have a quick time in Portugal.

Porto

Porto has been my favourite city on my 2024 trip. It is such a cool and unique city; everything about it was great. Its proximity to the ocean and water gives it a fantastic vibe, while its nearly mountainous terrain helps to get you up in the air and gives you amazing views of the region. You can take day trips from here to explore the Douro Valley wine region or spend your whole time in the city soaking up the atmosphere.

If you're after nightlife, Porto has that (be prepared to wait until 2 a.m. for the clubs to be busy); if you want quiet sightseeing, the university town population is never awake before 10:30 a.m.

Food will also delight you. In my opinion, Northern Portugal features the best Portuguese cuisine, and many of the best places are right in Porto. You can spend a day doing a food tour, and you will be amazed. Combine this with a tour of the port wine production in Villa de Gaia, and you'll have an amazing time.

Sintra

You don't necessarily need to see Lisbon to see Sintra, but if you're in the area, it's easy to stay in Lisbon and visit Sintra. Sintra is an absolute must-see. The area's natural beauty and rainforest feel are unique.

Situated about one hour outside Lisbon, Sintra is where the Portuguese royal family would historically go in the summer. Due to the area's natural landscape, it doesn't get as hot as Lisbon, making it much more comfortable to visit during the summer months.

Due to being one of the wealthiest areas of Portugal, it features the palaces of the royal family, private estates with castles and some of the most amazing natural beauty you will see. While you're out there, you will likely also visit Cascais and the west coast of Portugal, where you will see some of the most desirable surfing beaches in the world.

Read about my visit to Sintra in my blog on Lisbon.

Experiences I'd look into next

I couldn't do everything I wanted in my short time in Portugal. When (not if) I go back to Portugal, I'll look into visiting some of these sights.

Algarve

If you want a more beachside, lie-about holiday, the Algarve is what you're looking for. Picturesque beaches and small beachside villages fill this region of Portugal. Get yourself a car and explore to your heart's content.

You have an endless coastline to explore alongside countless beaches to spend the day lying. Hike along the coast here if that's more to your liking.

Everyone I've spoken to who has visited the Algarve has loved it.

Madeira

This archipelago, near the Canary Islands, is worth a visit. It was the birthplace of Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal's favourite son). Formed via volcanic activity, it provides incredible geography, perfect for those looking for off-path treks and wilderness adventures.

Even if you don't like going off-road, the perfectly sheltered beaches and warm water all year round will provide a fantastic experience away from everyday life.

Azores

The final next experience is the Azores. Yet another archipelago, this time further west into the Atlantic Ocean, provides a great getaway from everyday life. Each Island has its own lifestyle and experience. You can spend your time island hopping or settling in one place and soak up the atmosphere.

Alongside the relaxation, you go for food and wine. The unique volcanic wine and world-famous cheeses will keep you full and satisfied while you forget about home life.

Conclusion

Portugal is a must-visit country. The culture and people create such a welcoming atmosphere that you will absolutely love it. There are experiences for everyone. If you're a foodie or into hiking, maybe surfing and the ocean is more your style. Whatever it is, Portugal has it on offer.

If you haven't planned your next holiday yet, choose Portugal. I know I will get back again.