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From rustic surf enclaves with laidback locals to pulsating cities that teem with colour, Portugal is a European destination that serves up experiences for all ages and interests
1. Learn to surf in Aljezur
Set within Portugal’s Costa Vicentina, the laidback town of Aljezur is a favourite for beginner surfers—just come prepared for the chilly Atlantic water. Wetsuits are a must, but the rewards are great: wide beaches, uncrowded surf breaks, and a mellow vibe. Arrifana Beach is a go-to for both lessons and lazy afternoons. After catching waves, head to O Paulo for fresh seafood and an unforgettable sunset over the ocean.
2. Go wine tasting in the Douro Valley
If quaffing wine and picnicking among lush vines piques your interest, the stunning Douro Valley is a must. From April to October, the hills are quite literally alive as wine connoisseurs travel to the Alto Douro wine region to make the most of the balmy weather and magical UNESCO World Heritage Site. Go wine tasting first at Quinta do Vallado, a design hotel surrounded by a vineyard, then hop over to Quinta do Popa for more vino and a pre-ordered picnic basket of cheese, regional bread, roasted sausage, codfish fritters and more. A boat cruise on the beautiful Douro River is the perfect way to end a perfect day.
3. Lose yourself in Tavira
Not far from the Spanish border, Tavira is one of the Algarve’s most picturesque towns, known for its cobblestone streets, Moorish architecture, and scenic plazas like Praça da República. Spend your day wandering past historic churches and under palm-lined promenades. While the once-popular Pego do Inferno waterfall remains closed to the public, there’s still plenty to explore in and around town, including boat rides to Ilha de Tavira for a peaceful beach day.
4. Explore Lisbon by night
Portugal’s chicest city is alluring, bustling and intoxicating all at once. In terms of capital cities, Lisbon punches way above its weight in the food, wine, history, music and transport stakes. Ride rickety old trams up and down steep hills, stumble upon colourful murals and take a free walking tour to get a taste of the history – and that’s just the daytime. When dark falls, the city drops her veil and becomes a pulsating hub for nightlife. H10 Duque de Loulé is the place for a stylish pre-dinner drink while Lux, with its rooftop terrace and riverside views, is the place to dance.
5. Road-trip from Lisbon to Lagos
The coastline in Portugal is one of the best in Europe. Forget jam-packed pebbly beaches, Portugal’s sandy beach coastline is much like Australia’s. The perfect way to see all of it and more is via your own three or four-day self-drive itinerary, allowing you to stop a while in quaint towns and explore lesser-known beaches. Some of the best-kept secrets include Praia da Amoreira in the north-west of the Algarve, Zambujeira do Mar, and Porto Covo in Alentejo.
6. Take a fortified wine tour in Porto
It would be rude to visit Porto without sampling the very thing that received its name from Portugal’s second-largest city. A great way to see the city (before sipping vino all afternoon) is by taking a 6.3km one-way walk or run along the Douro River. The majority of port producers including Graham’s Port, a family run business established in 1820, are on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river. A guided tour of the working cellar, Graham’s 1890 Lodge, is by appointment only, so book ahead.
7. Go beachcombing in Lagos
Picture-perfect Lagos in the Algarve is a haven for visitors thanks to its walled old town, sandy coves, aqua-blue grottos and charming, white-washed architecture. The town is home to some of the best beaches you will ever lay eyes on, many of which are nestled at the foot of a staircase and surrounded by looming limestone cliffs that rise up to 20m. Must-see beaches include Ponta da Piedade and Praia do Camilo.
8. Explore a magical hill town
Set among misty hills just outside Lisbon, Sintra feels like it’s been plucked from the pages of a fairytale. With its whimsical palaces, exotic gardens and mystical atmosphere, it’s no wonder Romantic poets, including Lord Byron, were enchanted by it. The colourful Pena Palace is the crown jewel, but don’t skip the Moorish Castle or Quinta da Regaleira with its eerie Initiation Well. After sightseeing, the town centre offers a treasure trove of art, antiques, handmade ceramics and curiosities.
9. Get your fix of history in Evora
Located in Portugal’s Alentejo region, Evora is a UNESCO site famous for its Gothic and baroque architecture, wide streets and white-washed houses. The Cathedral of Evora, built between 1186 and 1250, is a fascinating piece of history while the Chapel of Bones, built from more than 5,000 skeletons, is an eerie yet amazing stop to add to your bucket list.
