Tracing the Steps of Explorers and Poets

Portugal

Portugal is one of Europe’s most undiscovered destinations, but we think it deserves more attention from international travellers. From its scenic coastline to historic cities and unspoiled natural areas, Portugal consistently dazzles with all that it has to offer.

The southern coast has miles of golden sand beaches and charming fishing villages, making it an idyllic spot for relaxation any time of year. The Algarve region towns of Lagos and Tavira, are perfect for beach getaways. Moving inland, the historic cities of Lisbon and Porto should not be missed, with their districts full of character around every corner.

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the mountains, rivers, and valleys that make up Portugal’s interior. One highlight is the rolling hills of the Alto Alentejo dotted with whitewashed villages barely touched by tourism. Throughout, visitors will encounter a warm Portuguese spirit and taste the country’s famous food and beverages.

From its coastline to cities to outdoor spaces, Portugal continuously enchants travelers with its history and charming people. Contact us to begin planning your bespoke Portugal itinerary.

Portugal: Essential Information and Fun Facts

Visiting Portugal requires a Schengen Visa for some nationalities, which allows you to explore not just Portugal but 26 European countries for up to 90 days. Requirements typically include a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance, among other documents. The process can be streamlined but it’s crucial to apply well in advance of your planned trip. Contact us and we will guide you through the visa process.

Portugal has a generally mild climate year-round thanks to influences from the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Summers are warm and dry inland while winters remain relatively moderate along the coast. Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) are excellent times to visit when the sun is out but crowds are smaller. The southern Algarve region sees the warmest temperatures from July through August, perfect for beach vacations, though inland it can get quite hot.

Portugal is full of surprising facts beyond its beaches and pastel de nata, Portugal’s most famous pastry and culinary export. For one, it has over 300 days of sunshine per year. It’s also home to more castles than any other country in Europe, with over 2,000 scattered throughout the landscape. You’ll also find everywhere in Portugal is never more than 123km from the ocean, and it produces enough olives each year to circle the equator five times. Perhaps most unusual of all is Portugal’s stone skyscrapers – called piteiros – built solely from rubble with no mortar.