Holidays in Portugal Travel Guide
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR A HOLIDAY IN PORTUGAL
Discover the enchanting charms of Portugal, a popular holiday destination that combines old-world charm with breathtaking natural beauty. From the historic cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto to the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve or Madeira, Portugal offers a diverse range of holiday experiences that will delight every traveller.
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in fascinating history and culture, from medieval castles to beautifully preserved architecture and unique traditions
- Experience Portugal's breathtaking coastline, with dramatic cliffs, picturesque beaches, and charming fishing villages waiting to be discovered
- Delight your taste buds with diverse culinary flavours, from iconic custard tarts to hearty seafood dishes and exceptional Portuguese wines
- Get lost in the lively streets of Lisbon, wander the narrow alleys of Porto, and discover charming towns all over the country
- Surf world-class waves and explore unique rock formations, all while enjoying Portugal's mesmerising natural beauty
Would you like more information for your trip to Portugal? Read on!
Top things to see in Portugal
Top things to do in Portugal
- Visit stunning beaches or enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and surfing on the pristine shores of the Algarve, Madeira or the Azores.
- Sample and indulge in the rich local flavors of Portuguese cuisine.
- Take a tour through Portugal's wine regions to taste a variety of wines and learn about the country's winemaking traditions.
- Attend a Fado performance to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of a traditional Portuguese music genre known for its melancholic tunes and heartfelt lyrics.
- Hike scenic trails, discover stunning viewpoints, and appreciate the country's diverse flora and fauna at Portugal's national parks.
What to eat & drink in Portugal
- Pastéis de Nata: These iconic Portuguese custard tarts are a true delight. Made with a flaky pastry crust and a creamy egg custard filling, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, they are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
- Bacalhau: Bacalhau, or salted codfish, is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. With countless recipes and preparations, from Bacalhau à Brás (shredded codfish with potatoes, eggs, and onions) to Bacalhau com Natas (codfish baked with cream), it's a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Francesinha: Hailing from Porto, the Francesinha is a hearty and indulgent sandwich. It typically consists of layers of cured meats, including ham, sausage, and steak, covered with melted cheese and topped with a rich tomato and beer-based sauce. It's often served with fries on the side.
- Caldo Verde: Caldo Verde is a comforting traditional soup that originated in the northern regions of Portugal. It's made with finely shredded kale, potatoes, onions, garlic, and Portuguese chouriço sausage, creating a hearty and flavorful combination.
- Pasteis de Bacalhau: These savory codfish fritters are a popular snack in Portugal. Made with salted codfish, mashed potatoes, eggs, and seasonings, they are deep-fried to a golden brown and served hot. They are a delicious appetizer or finger food option.
- Port Wine: Portugal is famous for its production of Port wine, a fortified wine typically enjoyed as a dessert wine. Produced in the Douro Valley region, Port wine comes in various styles, including Tawny, Ruby, and Vintage, offering rich flavors and aromas.
- Ginjinha: Ginjinha is a traditional Portuguese liqueur made from sour cherries, known as ginja. It has a sweet and fruity flavor and is often found in small establishments known as "Ginjinha bars."
Where to stay in Portugal
TUI BLUE Hotels in Portugal
Looking for the perfect place to stay during your holiday in Portugal? We have the stunning TUI BLUE Madeira Gardens hotel nestled on the island of Madeira.
THE BENEFITS OF TUI BLUE
- Premium hotels in unique locations and with first-class service
- Modern, fully-equipped rooms tailored to you and your needs
- Access to a professional BLUEf!t® programme combining health, wellness, and nutrition
- Local expert BLUE® Guides available on-site to assist you during your stay
- Regional cuisine and dishes with international twists catering to all dietary needs, lifestyles and allergies
- A variety of BLUE® Experiences to keep you entertained, including a standout kids‘ edutainment programme and exclusive excursions
Frequently asked questions about Portugal
- When is the best time to visit Portugal?
The best time to visit Portugal depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while summer (June to August) is popular for beach vacations. Winter (November to February) is milder but with occasional rain.
- Is Portugal a safe country to visit?
Portugal is generally considered a safe country for tourists. Like in any destination, it is advisable to take common-sense precautions and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded tourist areas.
- Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
The visa requirements for Portugal depend on your nationality. Many countries, including the United Kingdom and most other European countries, do not require a visa for short visits. It is advisable to check the specific visa requirements based on your citizenship before travelling.
- Do people in Portugal speak English?
While Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, many people, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations, have a good command of English.
- What are the opening hours of shops and restaurants in Portugal?
Shops in Portugal typically open around 9:00 AM and close for a lunch break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. They then stay open until around 7:00 PM or later. Restaurants usually start serving dinner around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM, and some may close on Sundays or have shorter hours.
- How can I get around in Portugal?
Portugal has a well-developed transportation system. You can travel between cities by train, bus, or domestic flights. In urban areas, public transportation such as metros, trams, and buses are readily available. It could also be helpful to rent a car to get around the country.
- Can I drink tap water in Portugal?
Yes, tap water in Portugal is generally safe to drink. The water quality is monitored, and it meets the standards of the European Union. However, some people prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available.
