743 Travel reports · 132 travel bloggers · 15.7K photos · Best time to travel: February & April · Create a travel blog · About Vakantio
Portugal is a compact yet remarkably varied destination, making it especially rewarding for travelers who want history, coastline, cuisine, and culture in one easy-to-navigate trip. From Lisbon’s hilltop neighborhoods, tiled facades, and nostalgic tram rides to Porto’s riverfront charm and famous port wine cellars, the country offers a rich sense of place without the crowds and distances found in some larger European destinations. Travelers are often drawn to Portugal’s warm hospitality, Atlantic beaches, soulful fado music, and excellent food, from fresh seafood and grilled sardines to pastel de nata and regional wines.
Beyond its major cities, Portugal’s highlights include the golden cliffs and beach towns of the Algarve, the fairytale palaces of Sintra, the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, and medieval towns such as Óbidos and Évora. Outdoor lovers can surf along the western coast, hike coastal trails, or take scenic drives through wine country, while culture-focused visitors can explore monasteries, castles, and lively local markets. Practical tips: public transport is reliable between major destinations, but renting a car is useful for rural areas; comfortable walking shoes are essential for steep, cobbled streets; and booking accommodations early is wise in popular areas. Learning a few Portuguese phrases is appreciated, and meals tend to start later in the evening than in some other parts of Europe.
April is the strongest month in the popularity data, with February and March also performing well, making late winter through spring the best time to visit. These months likely offer a great balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and strong access to Portugal’s cities, coastal areas, and cultural sights.
After our hike in the mountains, we went to a beach near Lagos and were warmly greeted by our new English neighbors. After a nice conversation, we went into the water....
The first day after the exhausting flight, which arrived shortly before midnight with a 6-hour delay, was supposed to be for acclimatization. We planned our tours using the...
I'm on my way to Lisbon and reviewing the last two days in Porto. Since I spontaneously got a few days off and Malte is also free, we fly to Porto. The first day was spent...
In the meantime, we have left behind the beautiful city of Porto. There we had the last really hot day (30°) for now. From Portugal onwards, the nights were really warm as well....
We are in Portugal !! :-) When we arrived at the dreamlike Eco Camp in Salema, we were enchanted by the country and its people. We have never been welcomed so kindly at any...
From oranges, beach, and dunes
From Coast to Coast
... that found no more space.
These are the planned stages. I intend to run no more than 25 km per day. According to this plan, I would be on the road for 13 days. Let's see if it works out that way :) In...
The first stop on our return journey was Ericeira, a small town on the coast of Portugal about 45 minutes north of Lisbon. Ericeira is a cozy little town surrounded by beautiful...
Today we started our Lisbon tour in Belem in the Monasteiro do Jeronimos. At the same time, the anniversary of the National Guard was celebrated with a large parade! The Pasteis...
Arrived in Sagres! … by bus. After yesterday's wind trauma and considering that the “last bratwurst before America” was closed today due to strong gusts of wind, we drove...
We have completed our first adventure. A flight with three children, a stroller and four backpacks. After a journey without incident, we arrived at Cologne Bonn Airport. We just...
I suspended today's stage. I've had a sore throat since the second night, which has now turned into a real cold. So Martin set off alone after breakfast and I sat on the cliffs...
After the turbulent last few weeks, it was very good for Leon and me to spend a few hours on the beach. Nature in Portugal is really beautiful at the moment, everything is...
The third day spoiled us again with breathtaking views, incredible colors and summer sun. We were on the road for a long time, saw a lot of storks (small search picture: there...
My first city in Portugal. Reached “Endland” and now explore a little.
After visiting the Christ the Redeemer statue in Lisbon, we continued to Sintra. First, we ended up in a small, nice café and ate the traditional Pastel de Nata. Then, we got...
Today we relax in our beautiful hotel complex, stroll through the tropical garden and find a shady spot among the banana trees. In the afternoon, we walk to a nearby small beach...
Traveling means being open to me. To encounter the new with curiosity. To perceive every moment in its uniqueness. While traveling, I feel connected. Connected to life. I...
Pamplona-Braganca Today we're heading to Portugal, to Braganca! It's about 550km there and I estimate about 9 hours of driving time. Therefore, I choose the fastest route, which...
We continue along the coast and end up at Praia Galapos / Galaphinos. Lonely beaches like out of a picture book invite you for endless walks. We walk along small paths to a...
Our next destination is called Costa Nova. The small village is known for its colorful striped houses. The story that the houses are better visible for the fishermen from the...
We continue to the first major Portuguese city on our journey, PORTO. A parking lot near the old town and the world-famous bridge is found quite quickly after a seemingly...
A day in Fatima
Some time has passed since our last update. In total, we spent almost 6 weeks at Will's place. We really enjoyed the time and peace at this secluded place and only left the...
Amarante is a not-so-small town, but with a very picturesque old town. And a cute alley, with many small pubs and taverns where you can drink Vinho Verde, which this region is...
We circumbulate Lisbon widely (of course, we would have gone there if we didn't have a dog!) and reach Cabo da Roca. This is the westernmost point of continental Europe. And...
We are heading towards Sagres and towards Cabo de São Vicente. Today we have arrived at the southernmost tip of continental Europe. And it is very impressive! Huge rocks and a...
Hey everyone Today we treated ourselves to a real relaxation day :). We woke up at 9 o'clock, had breakfast and then had an appointment for a back massage. As there was only...