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Introducing Portugal

From the seemingly never-ending festivals to the diverse range of cultures that have made Portugal their home over the centuries, to the simple but delightful culinary experiences, the vibrant heritage and cultural diversity of this country captivate travelers.

When is the best time to visit?
Portugal is a year-round destination, but if possible, travelers should aim to visit in the springtime when the almond blossoms and wildflowers cover the countryside. Learn more

Where should you go in Portugal?
Experience the traditional Alfama neighborhood of Lisbon before it will be absorbed by the rest of the bustling city’s culture, tour the ancient ruins of Sintra and historic Evora, walk along the bluffs of Europe’s most southwestern point at Cabo de São Vicente, and relax on the beaches of Ilha de Tavira.

How many days do I need?
There are too many destinations that are must-sees in Portugal to see the country in less than a week. At least 10 days is best. Learn more

Getting Around Portugal
Although smaller than neighboring Spain and France, distances in Portugal are still significant—traveling from Porto to Faro, for example, takes five hours by car. Flying is a quick and comfortable way to get between the country’s major cities, with the largest airport being Lisbon Airport (LIS). Going by bus or train are also options here. Learn more 

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

Portugal Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Camilo Beach in Lagos
Map of Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days
Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days

Experience three of Portugal's most iconic destinations on this 10-day trip, starting in Lisbon, where you'll tour ancient ruins, cobbled streets, and a UNESCO-listed village in the forested hills. Next, head north to Porto—famous for wine production and colorful architecture along the Douro River. The hardest decisions fall at the end, where you can choose between spectacular beaches and whitewashed villages in the Algarve.

Porto's setting along the Douro River
Map of Best of Lisbon & Porto - 7 Days
Best of Lisbon & Porto - 7 Days

This seven-day adventure is the perfect introduction to Portugal for first-timers. Over a week, you'll explore Lisbon's exciting food and culture scene, take scenic day trips to historic villages, and walk through Porto's UNESCO-listed city center. Finish in the oldest wine region in the world before returning to Lisbon by way of the country's medieval capital: Coimbra.

Madeira Island's northern coast
Map of Explore Portugal: Porto, Lisbon, & Madeira Island - 14 Days
Explore Portugal: Porto, Lisbon, & Madeira Island - 14 Days

This epic Portugal tour highlights two cosmopolitan cities and a stunning mid-Atlantic island—part of an autonomous region—known for its tropical foliage and eternal spring-like weather. You'll kick off in Porto, home of centuries-old wine production and colorful architecture along the Douro River. Then fly to Madeira Island for secluded beaches and untouristed villages waiting to be discovered. Last but not least is Lisbon's friendly, up-and-coming capital—a striking city built on seven hills.

Marinha Beach in Portimão
Map of Best of Portugal, from Porto to Algarve - 8 Days
Best of Portugal, from Porto to Algarve - 8 Days

This tour mixes Portugal's vibrant cities with the incredible natural scenery of the Algarve region, starting with guided tours of Porto and Lisbon's hilly and historic neighborhoods. Enjoy a day trip to the Douro Valley for a tasting of the region's wine and port varietals, then head south to Algarve to explore its water sports, preserved coastal parks, and endless coastline filled with sandy beaches and rock formations. Spend hours relaxing on the beach, hiking along the coast, or meandering the historic fishing villages, all before watching dramatic sunsets and experiencing the area's exceptional nightlife.

Sunset from the Cabo da Roca near Lisbon
Map of Ultimate Portugal Tour: Lisbon, Porto, The Algarve, Douro Valley & More - 14 Days
Ultimate Portugal Tour: Lisbon, Porto, The Algarve, Douro Valley & More - 14 Days

This itinerary includes Portugal's two biggest cities, a slew of historic villages, and some spectacular beaches for an epic adventure to remember. Start in up-and-coming Lisbon to explore ancient ruins and trendy districts before going north to UNESCO-listed Porto (and its nearby wine region). You'll also get time in the university towns of Évora and Coimbra—each with its medieval attractions and dining scenes—before kicking back for a few days in the Algarve.

Beach paths along the Algarve's southern coast
Map of Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days
Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary covers Portugal's biggest metropolis and its southern coast for a city-beach combo that's hard to beat. Kick off in Europe's hottest capital—Lisbon—for a guided introduction to the 'City of Seven Hills', including nearby highlights like Sintra and Cascais. Then, take the train south for several days of glorious beach-hopping while based in a charming old city surrounded by stone walls: Lagos.

Make the Most of Your Time in Portugal

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Foz, Porto's Old Town
How Many Days to Spend in Portugal

Portugal's compact size means you can pack a lot into a short trip—a few days allows for exploration of Lisbon and Porto, along with a few excursions beyond city limits. With a...

Portugal Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Portugal Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Hotel Britania Art Deco
Lisbon
Hotel Britania Art Deco
4.9
(18)
· Comfort
Step back into the 1940s in this historic Art Deco hotel located off of Avenida Liberdade, one of Lisbon's main streets that connects to downtown and the historic center. One of Portugal's most influential modernist architects, Cassiano Branco, designed this building in the 1940s, and it's the...
The Azores
Heritage Avenida Liberdade
4.9
(12)
· Comfort
Located in Lisbon's historic center, Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel is a charming boutique hotel that reflects Portugal's rich culture and tradition. You'll stay on the main avenue of Lisbon, Avenida da Liberdade, where the hotel offers easy access to the city's top shops and eateries. You'll...
Photo courtesy of Vivenda Miranda
Lagos
Vivenda Miranda
4.9
(8)
· Comfort
Perched on a cliff overlooking Porto de Mós beach, Vivenda Miranda offers a comfortable stay just 10 minutes from lively Lagos. This former 17th-century private home was turned into a boutique hotel in 1990, and it has retained the colorful style and details of an old historic house. Drive to...

Best Experiences in Portugal

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Statue at Praca do Comercio in Alfama
Lisbon
Explore Lisbon with a Guided Walk
4.9
(39)
3 hours
·
Private
Explore Lisbon on foot, led by an expert local guide, who will show you the highlights and history of Europe's second-oldest city. Set out with a knowledgeable guide who will take you to sites that may include the upscale shopping area around Chiado Square, the 12th-century Lisbon Cathedral, and...
Lisbon
Lisbon
Lisbon's Historic Odyssey Walk
4.9
(39)
3 hours
·
Private
"Embark on an exclusive exploration of Lisbon's historic center with a private walking tour that begins at your hotel, where your dedicated guide awaits. This personalized journey through the city's rich heritage is crafted to adapt seamlessly to your pace, preferences, and individual...
Porto
Day Excursion to Douro Valley, Wine Tasting & River Cruise
4.9
(33)
7 hours
·
Private
Embark on a memorable journey through the Douro Valley wine region, visiting traditional wineries and enjoying a wine-tasting session. Savor a traditional lunch at a quintessential estate and explore the picturesque landscape with an hour-long river cruise, admiring the scenic hills along the...

Our Latest Portugal Content

Explore Portugal's capital, Lisbon on a private city tour
Map of Grand Tour of Portugal & Spain's Iconic Cities - 16 Days
Grand Tour of Portugal & Spain's Iconic Cities - 16 Days

Cross the Iberian Peninsula by car, plane, and train to discover six vibrant cities and plenty of natural beauty. Begin in Portugal with a tour of Porto, breaking away for day trips to the surrounding towns and villages, then continue to Lisbon, where a fado performance and the palaces of Sintra await. Fly to Spain for a tapas and flamenco night in Seville, explore the UNESCO-listed Alhambra in Granada, and enjoy one night in Valencia before ending in Barcelona to discover Gaudí's architectural masterpieces.

Explore São Miguel, stopping at landmarks like the Lagoa das Sete Ciudades
Map of Highlights of Portugal & the Azores: Lisbon, Coimbra, Douro Valley, Porto, São Miguel - 16 Days
Highlights of Portugal & the Azores: Lisbon, Coimbra, Douro Valley, Porto, São Miguel - 16 Days

Explore the highlights of mainland Portugal and the Azores on this 16-day trip for food and nature lovers. Kick things off in Lisbon with a food tour and a home-cooked dinner with a local family, then discover the gardens and palaces of Sintra before picking up your rental car and driving to historic Coimbra. Sample local wine in the Douro Valley, and tour Porto in a vintage car, then fly to São Miguel to beach hop and explore the crater lakes by 4WD.

Drive along the Algarve's coastal roads on this 16-day self-drive tour
Map of Self-Drive Portugal & the Azores: Lisbon, the Algarve & Ponta Delgada - 16 Days
Self-Drive Portugal & the Azores: Lisbon, the Algarve & Ponta Delgada - 16 Days

Spend 16 days discovering Portugal's rich culture and natural landscapes, starting in the capital, Lisbon. Watch a fado performance, explore the city by tuk-tuk, and cruise the Tagus River before picking up your rental car and driving south to the Algarve. Here, you'll relax on the beach, snorkel in the turquoise waters, and discover coastal villages, then fly to São Miguel Island in the Azores for whale watching, kayaking in a volcanic crater, and relaxing in hot springs.

Portugal Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 5 Days in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 14 Days in Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Portugal
Travel specialist Marina Courtaut
active 1 day ago

Marina Courtaut

Can you think of a better way to live adventures than traveling? When we travel we open our minds to new experiences and learn new cultures by making the destination we visited our home for a...

read more...
Travel specialist Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
active 1 day ago

Beatriz De Pablo Rocha

The combination of the two places where I grew up (Madrid and a small village in Badajoz, Extremadura) has made me a passionate traveler almost from birth. Unknown destinations visited by travelers...

read more...
Travel specialist Pedro Luis
active 1 min ago

Pedro Luis

Hello everyone :) Every single time I have the opportunity to travel, my goal is to fully experience the destination. I truly believe that the essence, the context & the materialization are the...

read more...
Travel specialist Marta Trzeciakowska
active 3 days ago

Marta Trzeciakowska

From a very young age, I have grown up in an international environment since my parents moved to Spain from Poland. This meant that every year we traveled across Europe to visit our family and...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Portugal also visit these destinations

Why travelers love kimkim

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Authentic travel experiences

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Trip Reviews for Portugal

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A unique, five star experience
Portugal | Mar 8 - Mar 18, 2024

D
Daniel K.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Mar 25, 2024
This trip was one of my wife's and my favorite vacations ever. Joao did an excellent job, first in curating an itinerary that fit our preferences, and then in providing a uniquely personal and interesting guiding experience. The three of us got along very well; our experience was almost like traveling the country with a good, experienced, and knowledgeable friend. Thanks to Joao, we had excellent accommodations at acceptable prices and we tasted Portuguese cuisine at a wide range of... Read more

This trip was one of my wife's and my favorite vacations ever. Joao did an excellent job, first in curating an itinerary that fit our preferences, and then in providing a uniquely personal and interesting guiding experience. The three of us got along very well; our experience was almost like traveling the country with a good, experienced, and knowledgeable friend. Thanks to Joao, we had excellent accommodations at acceptable prices and we tasted Portuguese cuisine at a wide range of restaurant types--from elegant, formal dining to neighborhood cafes where people who work nearby come for lunch. This was not just touring; this was an experience. A unique experience. PS Don't miss the Fado in a neighborhood venue.

Hotel Reviews
PortoBay Flores
Porto

Almost sumptuous rooms and a very friendly and competent staff. Very well located for tourist purposes.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Balthazar
Lisbon

Well located, very professional staff, and a great location. This hotel provided a great start to our visit.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
BURGUS Tribute & Design Hotel
Braga

We had a room and a half at the hotel. That is, we had a very nice regular room, with a loft above containing another bed and another bathroom. We had a great view of the street. Excellent breakfast.

Location
Staff
Lagos Avenida Hotel
Lagos

Our room was extremely compact, and arranged in an unusual manner. For example, after using the toilet, one had two walk around the shower a few feet more to find the sink. However, the accommodations themselves- for example, the bed- were fine. The breakfast was excellent, and the staff were very friendly.

Staff
Hotel República
Tomar

We regret only that we had only one night here. The hotel is a pleasure to the eyes as well as providing excellent accommodations. The staff are friendly and competent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Dinner with Live Fado Music
Dinner with Live Fado Music
Lisbon

Fado music is unique. Hearing it performed in a neighborhood Cafe/ restaurant, by local singers and musicians (plus a proprietress who took a personal interest in our being served and enjoying the multi-course meal.)

Quality of Experience
Food
Local recipes, nothing fancy, but good, solid fare. We go back if we again come to Lisbon.
Food Tour
Food Tour
Porto

The leader of the tour was knowledgeable, very friendly, and quite humorous. We had a wide range of food and wines. I recommend the experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: João Daniel
João
João Daniel
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Mar 26, 2024

Thank you :) you made it easy!

Food and Culture Tour guide, Dani was excelle...
Portugal | Mar 8 - Mar 19, 2024

R
Robert K.
Janesville, WI | Reviewed on Mar 22, 2024
Food and Culture Tour guide, Dani was excellent.
Sinta Tour with Mannu was terrific!
Secret Porto Tour Guide, Pepito was excellent.
Read more

Food and Culture Tour guide, Dani was excellent.
Sinta Tour with Mannu was terrific!
Secret Porto Tour Guide, Pepito was excellent.

Hotel Reviews
Madalena by The Beautique Hotels
Lisbon

Great location and extremely helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
PortoBay Hotel Teatro
Porto

Excellent location and very helpful staff. Good breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Octant Évora
Évora

Nice hotel and excellent restaurant. Very helpful staff, We would have preferred to be in the city of Evora.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Too far from the old city of Evora. We would have preferred to be in Evora
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Vivenda Miranda
Lagos

Beautiful hotel with great views. Excellent restaurant. Very helpful staff and great location. Clean, comfortable and outstanding!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto
Lisbon

Good location, helpful staff. Hotel is just okay, food marginal.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Get to Know Lisbon with a Local
Get to Know Lisbon with a Local
Lisbon

Good tour, bad weather.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
 Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Portugal

Outstanding experience. Dani was a great guide, who was passionate about her city and its culture. Food and drink samplings were very good. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Portugal

Mannu did a great job. He was very knowledgeable about Portugal’s past and present. Very good local lunch.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Secret Porto Walking Experience
Secret Porto Walking Experience
Porto

We special experience with Pepito as our guide. He was very informative and took us to interesting locales.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Douro Valley Excursion with Wine & Olive Oil Tastings & River Cruise
Douro Valley Excursion with Wine & Olive Oil Tastings & River Cruise
Porto

One of the highlights of our trip! The boat ride was great. The wineries and food were excellent! Very good guide. Lots of fun.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Mar 26, 2024

Hi Robert, thank you so much for your feedback! I'm so glad to know that you had a great time discovering Portugal with your different guides, I'm sure you created lovely memories :) It's been a pleasure to work with you on this adventure! Warm regards, Bea.

João was the most responsive travel consultant I have ever worked with!
Portugal | Mar 9 - Mar 16, 2024

K
Kathleen W.
Roff, OK | Reviewed on Mar 17, 2024
We connected with João Branco through KimKim, and we were so fortunate to have done so! From our earliest planning inquiries through to our final flight home, João was tremendously responsive, helpful (and patient, as we did often have trouble making decisions!). Every detail that he arranged, from airport greetings and guided tours to reservations at hotels and restaurants, was top-notch and perfectly executed, surpassing our expectations (and we travel a lot!) -- and if at any point we... Read more

We connected with João Branco through KimKim, and we were so fortunate to have done so! From our earliest planning inquiries through to our final flight home, João was tremendously responsive, helpful (and patient, as we did often have trouble making decisions!). Every detail that he arranged, from airport greetings and guided tours to reservations at hotels and restaurants, was top-notch and perfectly executed, surpassing our expectations (and we travel a lot!) -- and if at any point we had encountered a glitch, we knew that he was right at hand to help us sort things out, because he used WhatsApp to check in with us regularly and find out how we were doing. Even someone as outstanding as João cannot control the weather, but he had given us a very accurate sense of what to expect in the Azores in March (i.e. Expect the Unexpected!) and was incredibly helpful in communicating with us and providing alternative suggestions when bad weather meant we had to cancel some planned water activities. Having someone so willing to facilitate for us, especially when we do not speak Portuguese nor know the area, made our entire trip so much more relaxing and hassle-free. We would absolutely use him again if we travelled in Portugal!

Hotel Reviews
Octant Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada

While the Octant is not charming on the outside, the people and the experience on the inside were outstanding, and the modern, green, design elements were original, attractive, and soothing. The team at reception (especially Luisa) and at the spa were so incredibly welcoming and eager to help in any way -- essentially, they conveyed a warm sense that "anything you would like to do, we can find a way to make happen," from booking us a slot to enjoy the thermal bath experience as a family to recommending and giving directions to their favorite hikes on the island. I only regret that the weather was not warm enough for us to enjoy the spectacular rooftop pool and bar area (though we might have hunkered down into the wind and done so anyway, if the pool had appeared to be heated, since the views and design were so amazing) The breakfast buffet (included) was a true feast and allowed us to savor local products as well as more familiar ones. In particular, the staff came to our rescue in the middle of the night when my daughter got terribly sick with food poisoning -- although they were down to a tiny overnight crew without anyone from housekeeping, the two men manning the fort rallied with whatever resources and creativity they had to help us clean up and set up an extra cot in our room when she could not stay in hers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great view over the harbor and convenient for downtown
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Octant Furnas
Furnas

Tremendously welcoming and helpful front desk staff -- they greeted us with a local pineapple liqueur, communicated with a local restaurant for us, and put out breakfast for us to grab when we had to depart for the airport at 4 a.m. (!). The spa treatments were phenomenal, and the thermal bath suite - both indoor and outdoor -- was open around the clock and, while actively used by many guests, never felt crowded (though it would be extra nice if some of their lovely herbal water or cold tea brews were available poolside). Although the bedrooms are small and have unimpressive views, the hotel overall provides an indulgent experience -- great food, beautiful greenery everywhere - - but with a laid-back tone: guests wander around in their spa robes, the fun cocktail bar has a wealth of games, the dining room combines chic, grown-up eco-design with a foosball table. Perfect for a refuge for adventuring in the region!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Mar 18, 2024

Hey Kathleen,
Greetings from Portugal!
Thank you so much for your feedback and wonderful words about your experience. Super happy to know you had a great time in Portugal Mainland and S. Miguel Island. Hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future.
Muito Obrigado,
João & Across Portugal Team