Portugal Packages

From Mountains to the Sea: A Journey through Portugal

For the longest time, Portugal has been ignored by travelers from all over the world, but lately it has come to the surface, with people appreciating its landscapes, food, and culture. The shift was much needed as the hype is totally real and deserving. Portugal is the country where the sun sets over the sea, and the architectural beauty screams like it is straight out of Pixar. The country has breathtaking beauty all around, from the fishing villages to the holy churches, bell towers, and the big colourful street. The country manages well the old rustic charm of rural life with modern life. People have been eyeing Portugal for its affordability compared to other European countries, and it offers much more tranquility and peace. Apart from the main cities in Portugal, you can discover plenty of hidden gems in the other parts of the country. The country is a haven for art, history, culture, and food. So, plan your Portugal trip now, and to have the best experience, you should read and use this post as your guide to the country. 

Capital: Lisbon

Official Language: Portuguese

Population: 1.07 crores (2024)

Currency: Euro

Airport: Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)

Must-Visit Cities in Portugal

Portugal has cities and towns that all offer beauty, architecture, history, and vibrant culture. You cannot do Portugal in a single trip, so it's better to experience the city as much as you can. With its stunning, diverse landscapes, Portugal will satisfy travelers of all kinds. It is recommended that you travel with a plan to cover the most famous cities. You can refer to the must-visit cities in Portugal provided below and travel easily: 

1. Lisbon: Famously known as the Very Noble and Ever Loyal City of Lisbon, Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, located on the mainland of Europe's westernmost capital city and along the Atlantic coast. The city is one of the oldest in the world and the second-oldest in Europe. The city was ruled by pre-Celtic tribes, then fell under the Roman Empire, the Germanic tribes, and the Moors, so it has diverse art and culture throughout. Out of the many places in Lisbon, you should visit the Alfama, Oceanario de Lisboa, Jeronimos Monastery, Castelo De Sao Jorge, Bairro Alto, Torre de Belem, Praca do Comercio, National Tile Museum, Chiado, Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte, and Padrao Dos Descobrimentos. 

2. Porto: Also known as the Ancient, Very Noble, Ever Loyal and Undefeated City of Porto or Oporto, Porto is the second largest city of Portugal. The Historic Centre of Porto, the Luiz I Bridge, and the Monastery of Serra do Pilar have been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Porto Cathedral is the oldest surviving architectural site in all the famous places. When you are in Porto, you should visit the Dom Luis Bridge, Douro River, Cais da Riberia, Torre dos Clerigos, Palacio da Balsa, Catedral do Porto, Mercado do Bolhao, Iglesia De San Francisco, Porto Bridge Climb, Capel das Almas, Mercado Bom Sucesso, and the award-winning stadium, Estadio do Dragao. 

3. Coimbra: Coimbra is worth visiting for its historic and vibrant culture. The city is home to the University of Coimbra, the oldest in Europe, founded in 1290. The atmosphere is student-centric, and you will see people flocking around in black capes. You will enjoy the youthful vibe that the city carries. Apart from the University, you should mandatorily go to the Biblioteca Joanina, University Di Coimbra, Fado ao Centro, Portugal Dos Pequenitos, Igreja de Santa Cruz, Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro, Se Velha De Coimbra, Jardim Botanico, Capela de São Miguel, Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha, Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, and Parque Verde do Mondego. 

4. Aveiro: To experience Aveiro, the best way is to travel by train to see the beauty of the city in all its shades. The city is also known as the Venice of Portugal and attracts visitors with its iconic, colourful moliceiro boats that navigate the central canals. Along the way, you will see the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. The city is in proximity to the striped houses of Costa Nova Beach. In Aveiro, you should visit the Museu de Aveiro or Santa Joana, Ria de Aveiro, Aveiro Railway Station, Forum Aveiro, Ostraveiro, Parque Infante D. Pedro, Pante Lacos de Amizade, Universidade de Aveiro, The Aveiro Salines, and the Canal Central de Aveiro. 

5. Nazaré: One of the most famous seaside resorts in the Costa de Prata, Nazaré is renowned for its beaches, where the competition of the huge waves and surfing are held, as the city has recorded the tallest wave in 2025, making it a perfect location for the same. The town of Nazaré is further divided into three neighbourhoods: Praia, Sitio, and Pederneira. When visiting, plan your trip around the national festival of Our Lady of Nazaré to see the city decorated and celebrated with great pomp and show. Some must-visit places in Nazaré that will hold your attention are Praia da Nazaré, O Sitio, Nazaré Funicular, Praia do Norte, Forte de São Miguel, Miradouro do Suberco, and Igreja de Nossa. 

Things to do in Portugal

Instead of figuring out your plan after reaching Portugal, you should explore the city just the way a native would tell you. The country offers a diverse mix of cities, beaches, mountains, and everything else. When traveling with a plan, the country will welcome you with many experiences that will encourage you to visit it often. Below are the things to do in Portugal; you should not miss any of them. 

1. Take a day off for the Beaches at Nazaré: When you are at Nazaré, you should dedicate a whole day to the beaches. There are just so many pristine, beautiful beaches that offer you the much-needed serenity. Pack your bags and soak up the sun on beaches such as Praia da Nazaré, Praia do Norte, Praia do Salgado, and many more. 

2. Visit the National Palace of Pena: The Pena Palace in Sintra is one of the seven wonders of Portugal and has also been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is a romantic palace in São Pedro de Penaferrim. At first glance of the palace, you will be mesmerized by its architecture and beauty. It is built in such a complex way and will also offer you a bird's-eye view of the city. 

3. Spend time at the Praca do Comercio: The Praca do Comercio is a must-visit on the trip to Portugal for its beauty, yellow-hued architecture, and the beautiful riverfront. Simply take a day out and visit this important landmark of Portugal. 

4. Take a detour at Bairro Alto: The neighborhood of Bairro Alto is known for the dramatic contrast that it presents while preserving the bohemian daytime atmosphere and the vibrant and bustling nightlife. You should visit it for the narrow streets, rooftop views, local shops, and its vibe. 

5. Dive into the history at Belem Tower: The Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that symbolizes the colonial period in Europe. It is a haven for history geeks and also draws those who have because of its role during the 16th century. 

Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal should definitely be on your bucket list. The city is magnificent, to say the least. Your trip will be even more fantastic if you visit during the best months. Portugal experiences harsh weather conditions in the summer and winter months, with occasional showers providing some relief for residents. To travel to Portugal during the peak season, you should plan for June and August. It is a declining summer time, and the temperature ranges from 17 to 29 degrees Celsius. There are some of the best rock festivals happening during the peak season, such as the Rock in Rio-Lisbon. You can also attend the feast day of St. Anthony and the Feira de São João in Porto. 

If you visit Portugal in the shoulder season or the off-season, you will see comparatively fewer crowds and will get better deals for accommodation and flights. The off-season months are from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius, and the shoulder months are from mid-March to September and October, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius.

Foods to Try in Portugal

Portuguese cuisine is the next best thing about Portugal, after its scenic beauty. The nation's history is diverse, and that is reflected in its food. The meals are prepared with different techniques, recipes, and garnished on top. Instead of going for ambience, you should eat soul-fulfilling, mouth-watering food from established local stores. You should try Portuguese food and debunk the misconception that Portuguese cuisine is a mix of European cuisines. The list provided below will help you venture out to taste the best Portuguese food. 

• Bacalhau
• Bifanas
• Arroz De Marisco
• Sardinhas Assadas
• Cozido A Portuguesa
• Carne De Porco A Portuguesa
• Bitoque
• Porco Preto
• Caldo Verde
• Polvo A Lagareiro
• Queijo De Azeitao
• Ameijoas A Bulhao Pato
• Pastel De Nata
• Prego
• Frango Piri-Piri
• Ginjinha
• Alheira De Mirandela
• Cataplana De Mariscos
• Vinho Verde
• The Francesinha
• Lupini Beans
• Cachorrinhos
• Chourico A Bombeiro

Things to Keep in Mind when Visiting Portugal

• Take care of your valuables and other belongings when you are in public areas, especially on the Lisbon Tram 28.
• Pack lightly and carry your comfortable clothes and shoes, as the city is walkable.
• Keep cash on hand and offer online payment methods.
• Do not speak any insensitive words. Learn some basic Portuguese lingo to convey properly.
• Car break-ins are common, so do not leave your valuables inside the car.
• Choose a metered taxi to avoid taxi scams.