When it comes to what to do in Portugal, this country of sun-soaked coastlines and timeless traditions offers endless adventures. In this guide, we've explored each season and every corner—from the rugged North to the sun-kissed South—tailoring experiences to suit every traveler’s passion, whether you're a history buff, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast. Ready to uncover Portugal's hidden gems and make memories that last a lifetime?
Which Season is Best for Traveling to Portugal?
There isn’t a single best season to visit Portugal—each offers its own unique charm. Spring in Northern Portugal, with mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, is ideal for history buffs, offering rich experiences in Porto, Guimarães, Braga, and Viseu. Summer, with its warm 25°C to 35°C days, is perfect for adventure seekers in Western Portugal, where surfing, hiking, and canyoning await. Autumn brings cooler, comfortable weather (15°C to 25°C) in the South, making it the perfect time for food and wine lovers to indulge in the culinary delights of the Algarve and Alentejo. Meanwhile, winter, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, invites nature enthusiasts to explore the snow-covered landscapes of Eastern Portugal, particularly in the Serra da Estrela mountains.
11 Unmissable Destinations To Visit in Portugal For Any Journey
Portugal is brimming with must-see destinations and unforgettable experiences. Let’s start with exploring our top 12 list of things to do in Portugal and why each spot is worth your time, what is the best time to visit it, and what essentials to pack for a truly memorable and stress-free adventure.
Explore the Historic Streets of Porto
- Why: Porto is a city where the past meets the present, with its charming Ribeira district, iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and historic wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Wander through narrow streets, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and savor a glass of world-famous Port wine.
- When: Anytime, but especially enchanting during autumn when the city’s golden hues match the warm tones of the wine.
- What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, a jacket for cool evenings by the river, and lightweight travel pants for versatile comfort.
Cruise Along the Douro River in the Douro Valley
- Why: The Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, and a river cruise offers breathtaking views of terraced vineyards and quaint villages.
- When: Late summer or early autumn, during the harvest season, when the vineyards are bursting with color.
- What to Pack: Quick-drying pants, a light sweater for cooler mornings on the river, sunglasses, a Versa Hat for sun protection, and a small tote bag for wine purchases from local vineyards.
Discover Lisbon’s Rich History and Modern Vibes
- Why: Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a city of contrasts—where ancient history meets contemporary culture. Explore the historic Alfama district, the majestic Belém Tower, and the vibrant LX Factory for a taste of the city’s modern edge. If you decide to switch city view to a coastal spot, there is Arrábida Natural Park near Lisbon, which offers mountain views by the sea and is a good spot for diving.
- When: Year-round, with a special charm during winter, when the city is less crowded and the festive lights illuminate the streets.
- What to Pack: A compact umbrella and rain shell for unpredictable weather, performance pants, comfortable walking shoes for navigating hilly streets, and a stylish yet functional backpack for daily essentials.
Sunbathe on the Golden Beaches of the Algarve
- Why: The Algarve is famous for its stunning coastline, with golden cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden coves. Benagil Cave is one of the most iconic spots in the Algarve, known for its striking sea cave which is accessible by boat.
- When: Summer, when the weather is perfect for beach activities, and the coastal towns come alive with festivals.
- What to Pack: A high-SPF sunscreen, snorkel set, a lightweight beach towel, swim trunks, flip-flops, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
Sintra and Cabo da Roca
- Why: The Palacio Nacional da Pena and surrounding palaces and gardens are highly recommended, even though they are touristy. While visiting Sintra, close to it, do not miss to visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- When: Spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom.
- What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the hilly terrain, a light hoodie for windy coastal spots, and a good camera to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes.
Marvel at the Natural Beauty of the Azores
- Why: The Azores, an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic, are a paradise for nature lovers. From volcanic landscapes to lush green pastures and crystal-clear lakes, the islands offer endless opportunities for hiking, whale watching, and relaxation.
- When: Late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the islands are in full bloom.
- What to Pack: At Pant for moisture-wicking comfort and soft and odor-resistant merino wool polo shirt, along with a pair of hiking boots, binoculars, and a waterproof backpack.
Visit the Roman Ruins of Conímbriga
- Why: Conímbriga is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Portugal, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s ancient past.
- When: Spring or autumn, when the weather is ideal for exploring outdoor historical sites.
- What to Pack: A sunhat and sunscreen for outdoor exploration, casual shorts, and a soft cotton polo shirt.
Hike Through the Serra da Estrela Mountains
- Why: Serra da Estrela is Portugal’s highest mountain range, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and the chance to taste the famous Serra da Estrela cheese.
- When: Winter for skiing and snowboarding, or summer for hiking and outdoor adventures.
- What to Pack: If visiting in winter, pack thermal clothing, a second layer of Merino wool, gloves, and a beanie for snow activities. In summer, bring hiking gear, sunscreen, odor-resistant tees, and hybrid shorts.
Explore the Medieval Castle and Walls of Óbidos
- Why: Óbidos is a beautifully preserved medieval town, complete with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and a towering castle.
- When: Spring, when the town hosts its annual Medieval Market, or during the Chocolate Festival in March.
- What to Pack: A warm layer such as a waffle hoodie for cooler evenings, especially if visiting during festivals, comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, and travel trousers.
Sample Portuguese Cuisine at a Local Tasca
- Why: Not quite a specific destination, but do not miss out try Portuguese cuisine as it is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. From the beloved pastéis de nata (custard tarts) in the famous Pasteis de Belem to hearty dishes like bacalhau à brás (salted cod), dining at a traditional tasca (tavern) is a must.
- When: Anytime, but especially in the cooler months when hearty stews and warm desserts are particularly comforting.
- What to Pack: Dressy pants for relaxed dining comfort, the Outbound Camp Collar Short-Sleeve Shirt for a casual, laid-back vibe, along with a reusable shopping bag for any gourmet treats or souvenirs you might pick up.
Madeira: the Natural Beauty of an Island
- Why: Recommended for its natural beauty, with both beaches and lush landscapes. It’s a favorite among those who visit, offering a different vibe from mainland Portugal.
- When: Spring to early autumn, when the weather is ideal for exploring the island’s diverse terrain.
- What to Pack: Hiking boots for exploring trails, a waterproof jacket, lightweight hiking pants, a Merino wool tees pack, and a daypack for carrying essentials on your adventures.
Now that we've covered the top activities across the country, let's dive into Portugal's seasonal offerings and tailored one-week travel plans that will guide you through the best routes and experiences for every season.
One-Week Travel Plans to Portugal: Tailored for Each Season
As you can see from the variety of top destinations, Portugal is a true traveler's treasure, offering a rich tapestry of unique experiences no matter the season or your interests. We've prepared ready-made travel plans for a week-long journey across the country, with different routes and adventures tailored to every season and passion.
Spring in Portugal: Exploring the North
Route: Northern Portugal
- Porto: Immerse yourself in the city's historic charm by exploring the Ribeira district, crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge, and visiting cultural landmarks like Livraria Lello and Palácio da Bolsa.
- Gerês National Park: An excellent spot if you enjoy nature and want to mix city views with calm nature, located in the northern part of Portugal.
- Braga and Guimarães: Both are rich in history and make great day trips from Porto. Visit the birthplace of Portugal with visits to its medieval castle and Ducal Palace.
- Douro Valley: Enjoy a scenic wine journey through rolling vineyards.
- Porto: End your trip with art and modern culture at the Serralves Museum or Casa da Música.
Summer in Portugal: Coastal Delights of the West
Route: Western Portugal
- Matosinhos: Kick off with a beach day, perfect for surfing or relaxing by the Atlantic.
- Porto: Explore famous wine cellars and enjoy fresh seafood along the Douro River.
- Aveiro: Take a boat tour through charming canals and taste local specialties.
- Coimbra: Known for its historic university and charming old town, a good stop between Lisbon and Porto.
- Sintra: Discover the magical Pena Palace and wander the charming streets.
- Porto: Wrap up your trip with a relaxed farewell in the city’s markets and gardens.
Autumn in Portugal: The Rich Heritage of the South
Route: Southern Portugal
- Porto: Experience autumn traditions with visits to the Cathedral and Douro Valley during the harvest season.
- Évora: Explore ancient Roman ruins and the eerie Chapel of Bones.
- Algarve (Lagos & Tavira): Enjoy coastal beauty, leisurely beach days, and Moorish architecture.
- Faro: Blend old-world charm with modern delights, concluding your journey with a sunset meal.
Winter in Portugal: Mysteries of the East
Route: Eastern Portugal
Porto: Begin with cozy mornings in local coffee shops and panoramic views from Clérigos Tower.
Viseu: Discover a hidden gem with a rich history and traditional winter dishes.
Serra da Estrela: Enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and cheese tasting in Portugal’s highest mountain range.
Guarda: Explore the medieval city and its Gothic cathedral.
Porto: Finish with festive cheer in the Christmas markets or unwind in a thermal spa.
You can mix and match these itineraries to suit your preferences, ensuring you’ll have an unforgettable journey through Portugal.
Essential Travel Tips for Exploring Portugal
Finally, traveling to Portugal is an experience filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable moments. However, based on our personal travel experience, here are a few tips that we believe will help you make the most of your journey:
- Time Your Visit Wisely: May is a popular time with increasing crowds, especially in tourist-heavy areas. If possible, consider visiting just after Easter or in the fall (September-October) for a balance of good weather and fewer tourists.
- Focus on Key Destinations: With 10-12 days, it's best to concentrate on Lisbon and Porto as your main hubs, with a few well-chosen day trips to places like Sintra, Coimbra, or the Douro Valley as we’ve proposed in our routes plans. This approach allows you to explore at a leisurely pace without constantly packing and unpacking.
- Take Advantage of Public Transportation: Portugal’s trains and buses are efficient and affordable, making it easy to explore both cities and rural areas without the need for a car. Renting a car is useful for exploring areas outside the cities, particularly for more rural destinations, but be ready for the potential challenges of driving on narrow, winding roads.
- Try Local Food Beyond the Tourist Spots: This is a must! Venture into local markets and small tascas (taverns) to taste authentic Portuguese cuisine, from fresh seafood to regional pastries, and discover the true flavors of the country.
- Pack Layers for Varying Weather: Portugal’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in coastal and northern regions. Packing layers will ensure you’re comfortable, whether you’re exploring a cool morning in Porto or a sunny afternoon in the Algarve.
- Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Portugal is a country with deep-rooted traditions, from religious festivals to daily customsю
- Avoid Over-Touristy Spots: Sometimes it’s better to avoid overly touristy areas like Nazaré and parts of the Algarve, especially if you are traveling in a high season, and instead visit lesser-known spots for a more authentic experience.
These tips should not only help you navigate Portugal with ease but also ensure that your adventure is as enriching and enjoyable as possible. Be sure to check out our international packing list guide to know any specifics you might need for your trip.
Portugal is a land of endless discovery, where every corner reveals something extraordinary—from sun-soaked beaches and vibrant cities to ancient castles and lush vineyards. We hope our guide and recommendations will help you make the most of your journey and inspire your next great adventure. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and let Portugal be the canvas for your next story. Safe travels!
Images source: Unplash
