Portugal
Sunshine, Soulful Cities & Seaside Charm
Holidays in Portugal
Your Guide to Portugal
Imagine riding a vintage yellow tram up the hilly streets of Lisbon, gazing out over the Atlantic from dramatic cliffs, exploring colourful riverside districts in Porto while sipping rich port wine, or relaxing on a golden beach in the sunny Algarve. Portugal delights with its rich maritime history, beautiful decorative tiles (azulejos), soulful Fado music, and a distinct, delicious cuisine focusing on fresh seafood and incredible pastries. It offers a captivating mix of old-world charm and contemporary buzz.
For many first-time UK visitors, Portugal means the guaranteed sunshine and beautiful beaches of the Algarve, or perhaps a city break exploring the captivating hills of Lisbon or the riverside beauty of Porto. But Portugal richly rewards returners and explorers: discover the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, the vast plains and cork forests of the Alentejo region, the wilder surf beaches of the Silver Coast, the unique charms of the Atlantic islands of Madeira and the Azores, or simply delve deeper into the country's history and culinary traditions.
Getting to Portugal
Flights: This is the main method, with a huge number of flights from London and regional UK airports to Portugal. Budget airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2 have extensive routes, alongside national carriers like British Airways and TAP Air Portugal. Key airports include:

- Lisbon Airport (LIS): Portugal's main international airport, serving the capital and central regions. A major hub for TAP Air Portugal.
- Porto Airport (OPO): Serves the vibrant city of Porto and the surrounding Northern Portugal region, including the Douro Valley. Many direct UK flights.
- Faro Airport (FAO): The gateway to the ever-popular Algarve region on the south coast. Extremely well-served by flights from across the UK, especially in summer.
- Funchal Airport (FNC), Madeira: The main airport for the Atlantic island of Madeira, with direct UK flights available.
Transport options in Portugal
Trains (CP - Comboios de Portugal), Buses/Coaches, Rental Cars.
Official Spoken Languages
The official language is Portuguese. While it shares roots with Spanish, it sounds quite different. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and within the tourism industry (hotels, popular restaurants, tour operators). Younger Portuguese people, especially, often have excellent English skills.
Weather & Climate
For exploring most of mainland Portugal comfortably, Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) are often ideal, balancing pleasant weather with fewer crowds than peak summer. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, especially in the Algarve. Winter offers mild weather in the Algarve (great for golf), fewer crowds for city breaks, but can be cool and damp elsewhere.
Must-Do Experiences in Portugal
Lisbon's Charm & History
Get lost in Portugal's captivating, hilly capital. Ride the famous yellow Tram 28 on its rattling journey through historic neighbourhoods. Explore the ancient, winding streets of the Alfama district, leading up to São Jorge Castle for breathtaking city and river views. Experience the melancholic beauty of Fado music in a traditional Alfama tavern. Head to the Belém district (UNESCO World Heritage) to marvel at the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, and queue up for the legendary original custard tarts, Pastéis de Belém. Don't miss the vibrant nightlife in Bairro Alto.
Porto's Riverside & Port Wine
Discover the atmospheric charm of Portugal's second city. Wander through the colourful, UNESCO-listed Ribeira district along the Douro River. Cross the iconic twin-level Dom Luís I bridge (walk the top level for amazing views!). Head over the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and tour one of the famous Port wine lodges (like Sandeman, Taylor's, Graham's) to learn about the fortified wine process and enjoy some tastings. Take a traditional 'Rabelo' boat trip on the river. Porto is utterly charming and a food and wine lover's delight. Consider a day trip (or longer) up the stunning Douro Valley by train or boat.
Algarve's Golden Coast
Explore Portugal's famous southern coastline. Relax on the vast sandy beaches near popular resort towns like Albufeira, Vilamoura (great for golf), or Lagos. Discover the spectacular coastal scenery around Lagos, taking a boat trip to see the dramatic rock formations, grottos, and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade. Explore charming fishing villages like Ferragudo or Tavira. Hike scenic cliff-top paths like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail near Carvoeiro. The Algarve offers a beach or activity for everyone.
A Taste of Portugal - Pastéis de Nata
These creamy custard tarts, with their flaky crusts and caramelized tops, are a beloved national treasure. First created by monks in the Jerónimos Monastery, pastéis de nata are best enjoyed warm with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar. Visiting the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery offers the quintessential experience, where the original secret recipe has been passed down since 1837. Don’t stop at one—pair them with an espresso and indulge like a true local. They’re the bite-sized essence of Portuguese sweetness.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Remember you'll be driving on the RIGHT side of the road in Portugal. Be aware of Portugal's excellent motorway network ('autoestradas'), many of which use electronic toll systems (Via Verde). There are often no traditional toll booths. Rental cars usually come with an electronic transponder; the rental company will explain how the tolls are tracked and charged (usually debited from your card/deposit after the rental). Clarify this when you pick up the car to avoid unexpected fines.
Driving Alert: RIGHT Side & Electronic Tolls!
Similar to Spain, when you sit down at many traditional Portuguese restaurants, bread, olives, butter, sardine pâté, or other small appetisers might be placed on your table. This is the 'couvert' and it is not complimentary. If you touch or eat it, you will be charged for it on your bill (usually listed per item or per person). If you don't want it, politely decline it or just leave it untouched.
Watch Out for the 'Couvert' Charge
Portuguese coffee is typically excellent, strong, and served in small measures. An 'espresso' (ask for 'um café') is the standard – a short, strong shot enjoyed throughout the day, often standing at the counter ('ao balcão'). A 'galão' is a large glass of milky coffee (popular for breakfast). A 'meia de leite' is half coffee, half milk served in a cup. Coffee is usually very affordable.
Coffee Culture: Small, Strong & Frequent!
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, resorts, larger shops, restaurants, and for booking transport online, it's always a good idea to carry some Euro (€) cash. You'll likely need it for smaller cafes, local markets (mercados), paying for local buses or trams, buying items from smaller shops, or in more rural areas where card acceptance might be less common. Tipping is appreciated for good service (rounding up or 5-10%) but isn't obligatory like in some countries.
Cash is Useful (Euros)
Portugal: Experience the Soul of Iberia!
Portugal offers a captivating blend of sun-kissed beaches, historic cities brimming with character, soulful music, stunning landscapes, and delicious food and wine – all delivered with a genuinely warm and friendly welcome. From the tiled streets of Lisbon and the port cellars of Porto to the golden cliffs of the Algarve and the terraced vineyards of the Douro, it’s a country with diverse charms and a rich maritime heritage.
Easily accessible from the UK and offering excellent value for money, Portugal is perfect for all kinds of holidays, whether you seek relaxation, adventure, culture, or culinary delights. Prepare to be charmed by its beauty, its history, and its people. Boa viagem!
