With its picturesque countryside, ancient castles and dramatic beaches, Portugal is much more than port wine and pastéis de nata (custard tarts) – although both are well worth sampling. It’s a country of rich history, lively cities and elegant charm. As one of Europe’s oldest countries and the home of the world’s first global empire, Portugal has been a global powerhouse since the 15th century and is rapidly growing in popularity amongst travellers.
The country’s petite size means you can start the day strolling the scenic vineyards of the Douro Valley, spend lunch in Lisbon eating bacalhau (cod) and sipping ginjinha (morello cherry liqueur), and finish with sunset over the rocks of Lagos’ Praia do Camilo beach. Portugal delights the senses and warms the soul. Click here to learn more about when is the best time to visit Portugal.
We offer a range of Portugal tours designed to suit different travel preferences. If you enjoy having everything taken care of and enjoy a larger group to socialize with, our Classic tours are a popular choice, combining great value with expert planning. Those who prefer a more intimate tour experience can opt for our Small Group tours, while Private tours and Tailor-made tours offer exclusive journeys made for you.
Our group tours to Portugal are led by experienced local tour leaders who know the ins and outs of each destination. From historic Lisbon to the scenic Douro Valley, you’ll benefit from their knowledge, insights, and language support. On multi-country tours that combine Spain and Portugal, your guide may change when you cross the border to ensure you’re getting the most from each country.
It depends on the tour type. Our Small Group tours are capped at 24 guests, offering more space and time with your guide. Our Classic Portugal tours run with between 20 and 40 people and are great for sociable travelers keen to maximize value for money. Private tours can be enjoyed by two or more people, and our Tailor-made tours have minimum group size of four people.
Accommodation on our Portugal tours is carefully chosen for location, comfort, and character. Expect well-located four to five-star hotels and boutique stays that reflect the region's charm. Many of our tours in smaller towns and cities include unique hotels full of personality, adding another layer to your Portugal travel experience.
Portugal is perfect for travelers who love a mix of history, scenic coastlines, and incredible food. It suits both first-time visitors to Europe and those returning to explore more. From active-paced adventures through hilltop towns to laid-back afternoons in coastal villages, our Portugal tours offer a range of experiences to match different travel styles. Check out the “Pace” icon on each tour page to get a sense of the tour style.
Our Portugal tour packages include quality accommodation, transport, guided sightseeing, many meals (including daily breakfast), and the services of a tour leader. Some itineraries feature extras like river cruises or wine tastings in the Douro Valley. Full details and inclusions for each specific itinerary are listed on each tour page.
Solo travelers are very welcome on our Portugal group tours! You can opt to pay a single supplement to enjoy your own room, or select our pairing option to be matched with a traveler of the same gender on select tours. Not all itineraries offer these options, so it's important to check the inclusions for each individual tour.
Yes, we offer several multi-country itineraries that explore Spain, Portugal and Morocco. These extended journeys offer variety, cultural contrasts and thoughtful transitions between each destination, including scenic ferry crossings or short flights where needed. Each country has its own dedicated local guides.
You’re welcome to arrive early or stay longer if you’d like more time to explore Portugal. Whether it’s an extra night in Lisbon or a side trip to the Algarve, our team can help arrange additional accommodation or flexible flight options when you book.
Each of our guided tours of Portugal includes a balance of structured sightseeing and time to explore independently. Wander through neighborhoods, enjoy a long lunch, or follow your nose down a cobbled side street—the space is yours to fill as you like.
Portugal’s cities and towns often feature cobbled streets, hills, and stairs. Travelers should be comfortable walking between two to three miles per day. If mobility is a concern, contact us for advice on the most suitable Portugal tours or options with slower pacing.
Spring and fall are often considered ideal times to travel. March to May and September to November bring warm days, mild evenings, and thinner crowds. Summer is also popular, especially along the coast, though temperatures can climb particularly in the south. For a deeper insight check out our guide on when is the best time to visit Portugal.
Portugal uses the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying a small amount of cash is helpful for local markets or cafes.
Portuguese is the official language. English is commonly spoken in major tourist areas, but a few local phrases go a long way and are always appreciated.
Portugal uses plug types C and F, with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from Australia, New Zealand, North America, and the UK will need a universal adaptor.
Portugal’s weather varies by season, so layering is key. Essentials include:
Travelers often ask about the must-see stops on our Portugal tours. While itineraries vary, highlights typically include:
Discover more hidden gems in our guide: the Portugal gems you didn’t know existed.
Expect simple, fresh flavours and plenty of seafood. Must-tries include grilled sardines, caldo verde (a hearty green soup), bacalhau (salt cod dishes), and the famous pastel de nata custard tart. Many regions have their unique culinary specialties.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in larger cities. While traditional Portuguese cuisine leans towards meat and seafood, you’ll find plenty of soups, cheeses, egg dishes, salads, and pastries. Your guide can help you navigate menus and share recommendations for local cafes and restaurants.
The tap water is safe throughout Portugal. You can refill bottles at hotels and public fountains, helping reduce single-use plastics during your trip.
Daily walking is typically moderate, ranging from two to three miles depending on the day’s itinerary. Terrain may include cobbled paths, hills, and stairs, so supportive shoes are essential.
Most of our Portugal tour packages include private air-conditioned coaches for intercity travel. Some itineraries also feature train journeys or river cruises, depending on the route.
Portuguese people are warm and welcoming. Dining is relaxed and often social, and tipping is appreciated but not expected. Dress codes are casual but neat, especially when visiting religious or historical sites.
Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free entry for many nationalities for short stays. Entry requirements can vary depending on your passport and travel route. Visa rules can change, so it's important to review our Visa Entry Requirements page as part of your planning. This also applies to transit visas, depending on your route.
Browse our collection of Portugal tours from the United States to find the itinerary that fits your travel style. Each tour page includes full details on pricing, daily activities, and what’s included. When you’re ready to book, it’s easy to secure your trip online. If you’d rather chat to someone, our friendly Inspiring Vacations team is on hand at 1 888 356 2021.
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