Portugal Holidays

Why visit Portugal with Original Travel ?

Swap the Algarve’s Brit-packed beaches for charming fishing villages, hidden bays and nature reserves on a holiday organised by our passionate Portugal team. We’ve done the hard work for you, getting under the skin of Lisbon, the Duoro Valley, the Azores and more, scouting out the best experiences and properties. Whether you’re after olive oil tasting, hiking routes in Rota Vicentina or a woodland lodge at Furnas Lake, we’ve got you covered. If questions spring to mind while in the country, fear not. Our knowledgeable guides and Concierges will be on hand to answer burning curiosities, like where to find the best pastéis de nata.

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Travel to Portugal by Region

Alentejo

Alentejo - Portugal's largest region, covering a third of the country - is a dreamscape of undulating honey-coloured plains and wonderfully wild coastlines topped off with a generous sprinkling of whimsical, whitewashed villages. Alentejo holidays are all about enjoying unspoiled nature, indulging in afternoon naps in the dappled shade of olive trees and topping on plenty of charming culture... the ingredients that all the best getaways are made of. If that's not enough, Alentejo also has a rich historical and archaeological heritage to match its landscapes. From the ‘museum city’ of Evora that boasts a collection of majestic medieval and Renaissance palaces meriting UNESCO World Heritage Site status, to the Roman ruins of Mirobriga, Alentejo is teeming with relics of the past. But don't forget there's also a killer coastline of unspoiled beaches to explore. Among the miles of deserted beaches is the hip town of Comporta, Portugal's now not-so-secret haven for Lisbon's beautiful people, and other small coastal and inland towns also getting in on the boho/surf act. All in all Alentejo is a deliciously diverse Portuguese paradise just waiting to be explored.

Algarve

Sitting pretty as a picture on Portugal's southern tip, the Algarve has been enchanting travellers for years. Just avoid the whitewashed villa and golf complexes. Whether you're drawn to its pearly-white beaches bordered by tree-fringed cliffs, or to the gorgeous green hills of Serra do Monchique, Algarve holidays are guaranteed to delight. The mild climate is perfect for strolling through villages along sleepy little streets and visiting the Algarve’s historical sites, from Moorish castles and Roman villas to Manueline (Portuguese late Gothic) monuments. Once you've worked up an appetite, find a lovely little local restaurant and savour the Algarve's aromatic cuisine with a plate piled high with freshly caught sardines grilled to perfection or a hearty bowl of stew bursting with flavour.

Azores

A remote archipelago in Portugal far from the crowds, the Azores have become a much-loved tourist destination over the years. The nine islands, forged by volcanoes, reach out from deep blue waters in the heart of the North Atlantic. Thanks to the mild climate and varied terrain, the Azores are a hotspot for open-air adventures and outdoor activities galore - everything from hiking and canyoning to sailing, surfing and unquestionably the best diving in Europe. Each island has its own charm; from the floral paradise of Flores and the towering Mount Pico volcano overlooking the region at 7,545ft, to the gentle rolling hills of Santa Maria and the cliffs of Sao Miguel. Azores holidays give you the chance to let your inner adventurer roam free, while absorbing plenty of the local culture in between.

Lisbon & The Coast

The charm of a city break to Portugal's capital city, Lisbon, is its combination of an incredible heritage with a wonderful, laid-back atmosphere. Once the centre of a great maritime empire, the modern city has re-emerged as one of Europe's most attractive destinations. During the Age of Exploration, Lisbon was one of the starting points for ships making their way into the unknown world. Discover this dynamic, welcoming city and its coastline steeped in history, from the imposing Castelo de Sao Jorge – captured from the Moors in the 12th century – to the Manueline-era Jeronimos Monastery. Peek inside the baroque church of Sao Roque, and wander along the streets of the old Baixa district. After a tour of the city, Lisbon holidays offer quiet moments of relaxation in between surfing and swimming on the coast. If you’re in need of a nature-filled detox, breathe the fresh air at the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park on the Portuguese Riviera, or follow the banks of the Tagus estuary as it flows into the Port of Lisbon.

Madeira

A volcanic outcrop in the Atlantic Ocean, 500 miles southwest of its parent country Portugal, Madeira is an outstandingly beautiful island with a wonderful sub-tropical climate. The year-round warmth provided by Madeira's special micro-climate makes it an ideal luxury holiday destination, with a wide array of activities on offer, from windsurfing to mountain-biking, paragliding and big-game fishing. Madeira is also a renowned destination for walking or hiking. All in all, what was once known as 'God's waiting room' (thanks to the number of visitors of an elderly persuasion) has become somewhere that waits for no man. Madeira's mountain slopes are irrigated by a network of small canals known as 'levadas', which criss-cross the island. There are over 1,000 miles of these in total, and they double as superb walkways, taking you through dramatic landscapes and past small villages with their vineyards and terraced fields. Funchal is the small, largely pedestrianised, capital city. Its unspoiled cobbled streets host hundreds of bars, cafés, and restaurants, plus excellent shopping and plenty of cultural attractions. Its hotel scene has improved dramatically in recent years too; with unashamed luxury on hand, as well as more fashion-conscious design options and peaceful rural quintas (country mansions) available in the countryside around the city too. So cast those misconceptions aside: Madeira holidays may surprise.

Porto & Northern Portugal

The Brits have long had a penchant for port, but the vineyards where the fortified wine is created and the eponymous city of Porto are, in themselves, a delight. While there are a couple of sites worth seeking out specifically during any stay here, the best way to spend Porto holidays is to wander around the maze of cobbled alleys before ending up in one of the port warehouses across the Douro river enjoying a sample of the city's most famous export. After a night or two in town, we recommend heading for the countryside and in particular the Douro Valley, famed for beautiful vineyard terraces etched into the steep hillsides. The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Douro River (or 'Golden River') that runs through the valley is the lifeblood of the north, weaving through beautiful landscapes before opening out onto the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Douro Valley holidays can be experienced from a luxurious hotel, or on a luxury cruise, by travelling alongside the river's winding banks on a hike or aboard a quirky vintage train.

Travel Advice & Information

Portugal Travel Advice & Information

Portugal Testimonials

1 reviews

4.5 / 5

"Expertise, tailoring things to our needs, seamless planning... Thanks to the attention to detail and quality of service of the Original Travel team, we had a fantastic trip to Portugal. This was our first experience with this travel agency, and it will not be our last! The professionalism of our advisor before the trip and the availability of the local concierge while we were away were particularly appreciated. I highly recommend Original Travel to arrange your trip to Portugal."

Markus - Manchester
Published on 25th April 2019

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Useful information for your Portugal holiday

What is Portugal known for?

Portugal has long been one of Europe's prime holiday destinations. Fascinating culture and history, beautiful landscapes and a good reputation for safety (paired with favourable year-round conditions) are just a few of the many reasons tourists are attracted to the sunny shores of this Iberian gem.

Culture and history. The country’s culture and storied history is acknowledged at every opportunity, with the main towns and cities packed with attractions. There are 17 sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, including the Alto Douro Wine Region and the captivating Cultural Landscape of Sintra.

Spectacular landscapes. Landscapes are incredibly varied in this part of the world – there truly is something for everyone, from beach dwellers to hiking enthusiasts. Portugal’s sultry south coast is famous for its world-class beaches: amongst the most famous within the Algarve region are Praia de Marinha, Cova Redonda and Praia Nova.

The country’s breathtaking landscapes aren’t exclusive to the mainland. Visitors in search of adventure will be spoiled for choice on the archipelagoes of Madeira and the Azores. The islands here have volcanic origins and are home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe.

What food and drink should I try in Portugal?

Portugal is a country proud of its culinary traditions and is home to plenty of unique flavours and dishes that transcend its borders. Top of your list when visiting should be pastel de nata. These famous custard tarts were first created in the 18th century by monks at the Jerónimos Monastery and can now be found around the world, but the most traditional tarts can only be bought in Portugal.

Especially if you’re visiting a coastal area, sampling some local seafood is a must. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try lots of different dishes, be sure to give pesticos a go during your stay. This is Portugal's answer to traditional tapas, where smaller versions of bigger dishes are served in a social dining experience. It’s also traditional to eat the main meal of the day later in the evening – often between 8pm-10pm – giving you plenty of time to soak up the sun during the day.

Alongside the country’s culinary offerings, Portugal is also famous for its wine. Port is the most well-known wine to hail from this part of the world; it’s produced in the Douro region and is often drunk with dessert due to its sweet taste.

What is the best way to get around Portugal?

Portugal is a relatively small country, and its public transport system is well-developed. Most visitors will be able to rely on trains and buses to get around during their stay, even when planning to visit different regions – public transport here is efficient and affordable. Tram systems also operate in the main cities of Porto and Lisbon. Though they’re both compact cities, they’re also very hilly, so these trams can be a lifesaver if you find yourself flagging on foot.

For more information, read our guide on transport in Portugal.

What is the weather like in Portugal?

Portugal is one of the warmest countries in Europe, with an average annual temperature of 21ºC. The temperate winters here make it a popular destination for some Christmas sun. Temperatures are higher year-round on the south coast compared to the northern regions. The tourist season peaks during the summer months; it’s best to visit in the shoulder season to make the most of the warmer weather without the heavy summer footfall.

Where is Portugal?

Portugal is the westernmost country in mainland Europe. It borders Spain to the east and north and has a western coastline on the Atlantic Ocean.

What is the capital of Portugal?

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal. This historic city is the largest in the country and remains one of the most popular urban tourist destinations on the continent. It’s also the westernmost capital in Europe.

What languages are spoken in Portugal?

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal and is the most widely spoken. The second most spoken is English.

What's the time zone in Portugal?

Portugal observes Western European Summer Time (WEST) during the summer and Western European Time (WET) when Daylight Saving ends. With the clocks changing concurrently in the UK and Portugal, there’s no time difference between the two countries.

What currency does Portugal use?

The euro is the official currency of Portugal. ATMs are widely available across the country, and credit cards will generally be accepted for most transactions – it’s recommended to still carry a small amount of cash for convenience.

How long does it take to fly to Portugal from the UK?

There are several international airports in Portugal that welcome direct arrivals from the UK. Approximate flight times are:

Porto – 2 hours 25 minutes
Lisbon – 2 hours 50 minutes
Faro (the Algarve) – 2 hours 55 minutes
Madeira – 3 hours 55 minutes

Do I need a visa for Portugal?

A visa isn’t required to visit Portugal, providing your stay doesn’t exceed 90 days during any given six-month period. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the day you plan to fly home.

Who are Portugal holidays best for?

UNESCO-listed cities, avant-garde architecture and a lively Latin atmosphere – there are many reasons to love Portugal. Even away from the cities, in the traditional villages and towns, you will find bustling streets, al-fresco dining and, everywhere you look, people enjoying the simple pleasures of outdoor life. Head to the old docks of Lisbon where trendy new restaurants and clubs entice with late-night entertainment or head over to the country's second city, Porto, for a more laid-back scene and as a staging post to the beautiful Douro Valley, home to chic boutique hotels and many of Portugal's finest - and hugely under-rated - winemakers. Meanwhile, the long and tapering coastline pulls in people from across the world appealing to surfer dudes, sun-worshippers and families alike. A lot of this coastline forms part of the Alentejo, straddling the entire country from just south of Lisbon to the Algarve in the south and full of beautiful cork oak forests, elegant wine estates, miles of deserted beaches and the achingly hip beach town of Comporta.

What can you find in Portugal that you can’t find elsewhere?

When in Portugal, be sure to try the sparkling sharp white wine of Vino Verde - especially good when chilled and paired with fabulously fresh seafood. You'll quickly learn while visiting Portugal, that this is a country that truly takes pleasure in its food. From brilliant bistros to tapas tastes, and not to mention the must-try pastel de natas (Portuguese custard tarts) that deliver a lip-smacking hit of sugary sweetness you won't be able to get enough of. Boutique charm can be found across Portugal with its array of historic hotels and quirky accommodations from convents and castles to magnificent monasteries.

Meanwhile, out in the Atlantic, Madeira enjoys a mild, sub-tropical climate that has been likened to 'eternal spring'. Once seen as a destination for senior citizens only, Madeira is shedding its fusty image, and the island's climate and landscapes make it ideal for all kinds of outdoor pursuits. As an addition to your luxury holiday itinerary, we can arrange the following methods of proving just how youthful and vigorous you are, including trekking, mountain-biking, paragliding, rock-climbing, surfing, windsurfing, sailing and diving. On the subject of diving, the islands of the Azores - another Portuguese possession - are generally agreed to boast the best diving anywhere in Europe.

What are the best ways to discover Portugal?

Weekend breaks are perfect for dipping your toe into lively Lisbon and pretty Porto. For those who have a week or more to play with, consider renting a car and taking the route from Porto down to Lisbon, combining chic city breaks with a beach extension. Blend a seaside stay with cultural discovery around the Lisbon coast, or opt for a sand and sea escape along the stunning coastal resorts of the Algarve. Don’t leave without sleeping in bliss at the charm of a pousada or parador at least once. Families will love surfing on some of the perfect beach breaks along the Atlantic coast, where the younger generation can learn to surf properly, and hopefully tire themselves out come evening.

Portugal holiday ideas