Portugal—an incredible journey from Porto to the Algarve! From mouthwatering food to stunning beaches, rich history, and the essence of port wine, every moment was a gem. Indulge in the best of Portugal, where your hard work deserves an unforgettable vacation!
Most important things to know before traveling to Portugal
What is Portugal's Time Zone?
Continental Portugal & Madeira: UTC+00:00
Azores: UTC-01:00
What currency does Portugal use?
The Euro: See the conversion rate here
Do I need a visa for Portugal?
Portuguese custard tarts vs. Portuguese egg tarts
One is amazing, the other is a disappointment. Tell me which is which in the comments
What are the Best Hotels in Portugal?
Lisbon: Silent Living's Santa Clara 1728
Silent Living comprises a group of guest houses around Portugal. Their properties all started out as family houses and offer beautiful accommodations with simple modern decor. The Santa Clara 1728 in Lisbon lives up to the Silent Living names as a tranquil getaway in a bustling city. Their friendly hosts and amazing home cooked meals really make it a wonderful reprieve from the bustle of Lisbon.
We had to. I've been eyeing this place since my first visit to Porto. Beautiful. Luxurious. Right in the heart of Porto.
Tip: Splurge for the suite and thank us later.
Algarve:
Vila Monte Farm House, Moncarapacho
Make no mistake, this is a luxury resort situated on an old farm. Part of the Discovery Management Hotel group, it absolutely lived up to their description: The epitome of the classic FARM HOUSE: a timeless simplicity, a local, genuine atmosphere and a BOHO- CHIC spirit. A reinterpretation of the Algarve lifestyle, with the perfect integration of its emblematic elements.
Take advantage of their included excursions, including olive oil tasting, a trip to their private beach, and cooking classes.
Tip:
Cascade Wellness Resort, Lagos
A large resort on the cliffs of Lagos. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Everything you'd expect from a resort - all you can eat buffets, pools, well appointed rooms. Our friends with a young child said it was good for families.
Tip: Get up early and watch the sunrise. Stay out late and watch the sunset
What are the Best Restaurants in Portugal?
Lisbon:
Proof that food brings people together. Ceia starts as 1 table, 14 strangers. Every part of the experience, from seating plan to the farewell, is meticulously planned, yet the hosts at Ceia create an uplifting, family dinner atmosphere. 10 courses, wine and juice (yes you read that right - juice) pairings, and many stories later, we left 1 table, 1 family. A must try before word gets out. Photos would never do it justice - you just have to experience it yourself!
Tip: Get the juice pairing
Tip: Try the Prado Mercearia organic food market just around the corner
Cafe da Garagem:
Very cute little cafe with an amazing view of Lisbon. Half of the fun is finding it - we'll give you a hint. Look for the Teatro Taborda.
Porto:
Cervejaria Gazela for the original Cachorrinho
Carvalhal:
O Dinis Restaurante Dos Pescadores, Praia do Carvalhal - quintessential Portuguese seafood on the beach experience. No website - you just have to find it.
Moncarapacho:
Laranjal Restaurant at Vila Monte Farm House
A Terra Restaurant at Vila Monte Farm House
Best Things To Do in Portugal
The best way to discover a culture is through its food
Lisbon:
Devour Food Tour An amazing way of discovering the culture and food of Lisbon. Our guide was incredible knowledgeable about the preparation of the food and the culture behind it. The stops are all within walking distance and includes many areas including pink street! It ends at the Time Out Market (but don't worry, we didn't stop in there). Definitely worth it!
Time Out Market - It was fine
Porto:
Culinary Backstreets Food Tour. This was more of a walking cultural tour with delicious food sprinkled in. You still more than get your stomach's worth of food and drink but the real value is the history and culture that's included. Our guide was Carine and it was evident her passion for her country. She used to work at one of the Port houses so was very knowledgeable with food and drink. It's an amazing thing when people come together through food and Carine did that for us. Our tour ended up being more than 6 hours! Great value and great experience!
Moncarapacho:
Monterosa Olive Oil Farm
Best Places to Visit Portugal
We drove most of Portugal. It's a beautiful country and very driveable. Our tour included:
Lisbon
very old europe with lots of culture and sights. a must visit
Sintra:
Day trip to Sintra
Tip: Get there early. Get a guide if only to avoid parking and having a pickup ready for you. We hired a guide via our hotel, Santa Clara 1728
Comporta
Old fishing village
Cute shops and cafes
Carvalhal
Beach on beach on beach on food
Lagos
buzzing beach town
Moncarapacho
we came here specifically for the villamonte resort and it was absolutely worth it. one of the best stays we've had - see above
Obidos
known for the local castle. we stayed here overnight on our way up to porto. do it if you have time but not a must
Porto
an absolutely vibrant city with great food and sites. very different than lisboa and a must visit
Douro Valley
Take a day trip and do a river cruise. next time we'll take a wine tour!
What Portugal Taught Me
There's always time for an espresso
White port and tonic with mint - thank me later
For our next visit to Portugal
Monsanto - the Rock village
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa - Relais & Chateau property with the chance to pick oysters with a Michelin star chef
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