First time in Portugal tips: From detailed info to 7-day plan
First time in Portugal Tips: Don’t worry! Explore Food, Wine, and places like a Rover.
Being a first-time visitor to Portugal, it will be exciting but confusing as well. Portugal is filled with stunning landscapes and beautiful cities. There are more than 27 million international tourists, and 20 to 30% of them are first-time visitors. There are countless experiences that you should not miss, therefore, here we are with this well-detailed blog with first time in Portugal tips. As a result, it will be easier to understand and plan your trip.
In Portugal, there are 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, which include a stunning monastery, a Gothic-style infrastructure, and a major reason for its popularity around the world. Besides monuments, places like the Laurisilva forest are also included in this list.
For more such interesting information, go through this blog, where you will get a done and dusted itinerary, details regarding the best places, and how to explore the stunning destination in your Portugal trip. Isn’t it exciting? What are we waiting for? Let’s get started.
Must-visit places in Portugal for a week-long trip
The main destination of this incredible country will be covered later here, some hidden gems which you can explore in your long weekends. However, these places will give the true essence of Portuguese culture and its beauty as well. These listed places are for the first time in Portugal tips so that it will be easier to explore, charms of this country.
Take accommodation according to your suitability.
There are many unique stay facilities in the region that offer the stunning stunning stay, perfect for relaxing and exploring different things.
- Comporta: It is a beautiful village known for its serene beaches, rice fields, and calming atmosphere. It is a perfect place for travelers who are looking to enjoy around natural beauty of the coastline. Beaches are quieter than other destinations in Portugal.
However, this place is more just a beautiful coastline, which you cannot miss. This place holds a significant role in the culture of Portugal.
- Obidos: This is a medieval town surrounded by a beautiful castle. Explore this stunningly structured town, which is the cosiest in the region.
With excellent cuisine and white washed houses and complemented the whole flowers, which gives the perfect setting to relax and chill with your company.
- Costa Vicentina: This destination is situated in the southwest of the Alentejo, and Vicentina offers rugged cliffs and an untouched landscape. This place is perfect to escape and enjoy the natural beauty of Portugal, which you can’t miss.
Stroll around the city and explore the beautiful corners, and you can also do hiking, swimming, and surfing.
- Aldeias do Xisto: This is situated in the center of the Portugal mountains, this place is ideal to take pictures and clips. This place is known for its charm and stunning landscapes.
You can explore the offbeat place surrounded by, hike to the Serra da Lousa and also enjoy the perfect local food and regional drink for the soothing booze.
First time in Portugal tips: Especially for the soothing type of trip:
- Don’t rush into the places to cover all of them, you will have time.
- Learn some basic phrases of the Portuguese language.
- Be in a slow pace, your focus is to be in relaxing mode, not in adventurous mode.
- Keep your belongings responsibly, these places are beautiful, although not so connected and developed.
Check, Portugal visit visa application form | Portuguese tourist visa UK
How to explore Portugal’s regions on foot
Whether you are exploring the historical sites or the countryside’s beauty. Rich, vibrant history and culture, which will leave a mark on your heart to remember for the rest of your life. Since walking allows you to dive into the true essence of Portugal, here is a guide on how to explore the incredible region on foot, with some first time in Portugal tips.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT REGION
The northern region is best explored on foot if you like landscapes and natural sites.
- Penedes-Gere National Park
- Douro valley
If you love to explore, the central city of Portugal is the best place to explore.
- Alentejo
- Aldeis do xisto
PLAN YOUR WALKING ROUTES
It’s important to choose a walking trail according to your fitness and the time you have.
- Camino de Santiago to Santiago de Compostela
- Rota Vicentina
DAYS HIKES
Portugal cities are ideal to explore on foot, there are countless historical and cultural landmarks to discover the wonder of the old times.
Here are the details with first time in Portugal tips, it is important to be sure to take time to explore the town’s charm of the region before there are many places to see.
Explore these stunning destinations, which are listed down:
- Tram 28
- Miradouros
- Ribeira District
- Palacia da pena o Castelo dos Mouros
PACK SMARTLY
Portugal’s weather is unpredictable, so make sure to pack your stuff wisely. Here are first time in Portugal tips that you can consider while packing for your trip.
- Carry comfortable and study footwear since you are going to be doing the, hence it is important to take care of your feet while exploring.
- Consider layering due to the weather change, in the mountain region or the coastal area.
- Always carry water and food with you, especially when you are exploring in a remote region, where service will be limited.
- It is advisable to carry sunscreen to avoid sunburns and any sort of skin damage.
ENJOY THE PACE OF THE COUNTRY
One of the best things about this country is the slower pace of life, since you will be visiting Portugal first time, so you should not hurry to explore the destination, just relax, and dive into the views and enjoy the charm:
Also check, Best Local Trains for Exploring Portugal’s Hottest Destinations and Attractions
Portugal food guide
Portugal food is a blend of the stunning, rich tradition and aged with time. The ingredients are popular for their stunning variety of seafood. Here is the ultimate cuisine list, which includes the must-try dishes:
- Bacalhau: A flavorful dish with fresh ingredients, with garlic, white wine, and cilantro sauce. The salted code is either grilled, boiled, or fried and served with a variety of the
- Caldo Verde: It is a comforting soup in Portugal. It is prepare from potato, kale, onions, garlic, and chorizo. This dish is also popular as the green soup.
- Francesinha: It’s one of the most popular dishes among the Portuguese people. The Francesinha is a Portuguese take on the croque-monsieur, but it’s much heartier. It consists of layers of ham, sausage, and steak, all covered in melted cheese and bathed in a rich, spicy tomato sauce.
- Arroz de Marisco: It is a flavourful rice dish that combines the flavorful variety of seafood. This dish is overpowers the fusion of the stack, crab, mussel, and clams.
- Bacalhau A Bras: A delicious dish made with shredded salted cod mixed with fried potatoes, eggs, onion, and parsley.
Portuguese wine tasting
Portugal boasts several distinct wine regions, each producing unique wines thanks to the country’s varied climates, soils, and winemaking traditions. Here’s a look at some of the most prominent regions for wine tasting in Portugal:
- Douro valley Wineries: The term “Douro Valley” doesn’t sound like the Douro Valley, possibly the name is by localities specifically for the winery area. This region is famous for dry red wine, and is also the oldest winery in the region, which makes it must must-visit landmark in Portugal.
- Port Wine: Port wine is one of the finest wines in the world, especially from the Douro Valley. There is a significant process in this wine, brandy is add to stop the fermentation, so that the sweetness of the vine can be balancing.
- Porto wine tours
Porto is located in the Douro valley, which is the charm of the port wine production. Experience the famous wine tour if you are in this stunning country.
- Port wine cellar tour
- Taylor’s Port
- Samderam
- Graham
There are many types of vine which are fine, smooth and perfect for smooth booze, the essence of sophistication you can deny. You will see vines like Ruby, Tawny, and Vintage. However, every type has its significant flavour, which is perfect to experience
These wines will taste like heaven if you pair them with blue cheese and Gorgonzola.
Type of wines
- Vinho Verde: The meaning of this word means “ Green vine”, which is famous for its crisp and refreshing and low alcohol white wine. The winery is locates in the northern region of Portugal, which you can’t miss if you like to explore different types of vines.
- White: This type of wine is mainly produce in the region of Vinho Verde. Ideal for the summer.
- Red and Rose: While white dominates, the region also produces white body red and rose Wines. These wines are popular for their refreshing qualities.
- Alentejo red wine: This wine is one of the most prominent Portuguese wine regions. Alentejo is popular for its fruity aromas, often featuring wild and red fruit notes. However, this wine type has a great balance of aromas and a perfect amount of acids.
Alentejo wines are versatile when it comes to pairing, as they go with everything perfectly. There are many wineries over here that offer tours and tastings. Which is perfect to experience once in a lifetime.
- Dao Red Wine: It is one of the oldest wine regions in Portugal, known for its unique blend of Touriga Nacional and Other Indigenous grapes.
The best part about this winery is its aging capacity; some wines here are more than 20 years old. Not just that, you can try a wide range of food, which you can pair with your wine and have a great experience.
Some Other Famous Wines:
- Madeira Wine: A Portuguese fortified wine from the island of Madeira, which is popular for its unique and intense complexity of flavour. These flavours are obtain by the aging of the Wine with a perfect process and core mechanism. This wine contains 15 to 20 percent alcohol.
How to experience wine tasting in Portugal? The above-mentioned details are perfect to explore the true winery essence of the country. But the below-mentioned travel tips for a first time in Portugal will help you to make the most of it!
- Choose the right region
- Embrace the local varietals
- Plan for a Guided tour
- Don’t miss the port wine experience
- Choose the right timings by checking the schedule of the workshops.
- Be chill and relax in the wineries and enjoy the environment
- Respect the local manners
- Try something out of your normal wines to explore the true wine essence from Portugal
Cities and nature spots for first-time travelers
To experience the balance of nature and Cultural fusion, so that you can relax and explore the historical landmarks, to have an unforgettable experience, here is one of the most popular cities and landscapes which you can explore.
List of Best Regions to Visit in Portugal
Lisbon to Porto trip
It is one of the charming cities of the country. Soak yourself in the historical neighbourhood and breathtaking views, and a local food experience.
Explore the viewpoints in Lisbon from Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, são must-visit spots.
Wander through the old towns where you will see many stunning cafes, which are perfect to grab a quick coffee and snack and then explore the narrow streets.
Explore the beaches of the city, where you can chill on a bright sunny day and enjoy the sea view and have a beer.
Here is the Best Lisbon restaurants list:
- Belcanto
- Time Out Market
- Ramiro
- Taberna da Rua das Flores
- A Cevicheria
- O Faia
- Mini Bar
- Sea Me- Peixaria moderna
- Cafe de Sao Bento
- Bacalhau de Molho
Here are a few helpful first time in Portugal tips to ensure you will have the best experience in the country.
After having a great day in Lisbon, take your trip to Porto. You can travel between these two vibrant cities in the way mentioned below.
By car: Driving to the porto will offer you one of the most stunning views in your journey. To reach the destination, it will take 3 hours.
By train: Taking the train is one of the most scenic and comfortable ways to travel from Lisbon to Porto, which will take 2 to 3 hours.
By bus: If you are travelling on a budget, then the bus is a great option for you and your company. There are some buses that offer stunning facilities like wi-fi, air conditioning. The bus will take 4-4.5 hours.
Also see, Is Algarve in March a Good Time to Visit? Weather, Packing & Activities
Places To Visit In Porto
Porto is the second largest city, and is a charming destination known for its rich history, stunning architecture and fine wine, which you can’t miss if you’re in Portugal.
Whether you are looking for the picture-perfect stop or soothing landmarks, or places with fine wines and landscapes, this city has everything you want.
Here are some places which you can visit on your trip.
- São Bento Railway Station
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- Ribeira District
- Dom Luis I bridge
- Livraria Lello
- Porto Cathedra
Since Porto is the new place that you explore, make sure that you follow the first time in Portugal tips for having a great experience in the country.
1. Algarve Beaches
The Algarve is located in the southernmost region of Portugal, hence, this place is famous for offering stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs and dark water views. Perfect place to relax and chill with your company.
- Praia da Marinha: This location is one of the most iconic and picturesque beaches in the Algarve, known for its stunning rock formation and beautiful golden-topped sand.
- Praia de Benagil: This beach is near the village, which is perfect to explore as well. The beach is for the stunning adventurous experience. Therefore, the cave has a stunning opening to the sky, which is one of the most recognised features in the region.
- Praia do Amado: It is one of the most beautiful beaches for surfing, due to its consistent waves in the sea, making it the best place to do water sports. Besides that, this place is ideal for hiking as well.
- Praia de Dona Ana: This is situated in a small town, and this small beach is located close to the historical town of Lagos. Therefore, this cute beach is perfect for sunbathing.
- Praia do Almancil: It is a beautiful, peaceful beach perfect for spending a sunny day. Unlike some places, this beach is quieter and calmer for relaxing and chilling with your friends.
2. Portugal coastal towns
Portugal is famous for its stunning coastline, which stretches more than 800 km and is dotted with amazing coastal towns. Each town offers a stunning experience for each and every traveller.
Here is the list of the perfect places to explore for the coastal experience.
- Cascais: It is only 30 km from Lisbon. It is a popular destination, recognizable due to its stunning scenery, historic architecture and lively atmosphere.
- Nazare: This is located in the central coastal area north of Lisbon, and it is famous for having the largest waves. Hence it perfect for surfers, mainly in winter.
- Lagos: This beach is known for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and historic charm. However, Offers a mix of natural beauty and rich history. It’s one of the most popular towns in the Algarve for beachgoers.
- Ericeira: It is a world surfing reserve. Therefore, Ericeira is a charming fishing town known for its excellent surf conditions and vibrant atmosphere.
Nature spots for first-time travelers
Sintra: This is known for owning one of the most stunning castles, which you can’t even imagine. Therefore, the city is filled with beautiful landmarks.
Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its fairy-tale castles, lush forests, and cool mountain air. However, the natural beauty of the area, combined with historical sites, makes it a must-see.
Penede: It is a national park very close to the Spanish border as well. There are many things which make it a special and perfect place to explore. However, it is a wine region, owns the cava, and the Peneda-Geres National Park in the northern region of Portugal.
This place is mainly known for the diverse wineries that offer stunning workshops and provide the best flavours of the region. Therefore, you should not miss.
Ria Formosa Natural Park: This breathtaking place is a stunning coastal lagoon with an intricate network of channels, marshes, salt pans, sandbanks, and barrier islands, all teeming with diverse wildlife. It’s like Mother Nature’s own stage to play.
Also see, Family-friendly hiking in Portugal – Madeira vs Tenerife Islands
Best hikes in Portugal
Portugal has something for every traveller who comes to explore. Therefore, now it’s time to explore one of the best hiking trails, which offers stunning city views and a stunning landscape, where you will be amazed. With the following first time in Portugal tips and places, which are precisely mentioned below. Have a smooth and well-prepared hiking experience in the country.
Rota Vicentina: Alentejo to Algarve, situated in the southwest region of the country. Therefore, this hike is known for offering one of the most scenic views of the city, with golden beaches and rugged coastline.
The Azores: 12 km loop, varies from Sao Miguel Island. However, The Seven Cidades hike takes you around the caldera of a dormant volcano with views of the iconic blue and green lake. Offering one of the most iconic scenic views, perfect for spending sunsets.
Pico: 7 to 8 km summit trail. This challenging hike leads to Mount Pico. The highest point in the country is at 2351 meters. If you complete this stunning hike, you will witness the true essence of mother nature’s beauty, an island view surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean.
First-time Portugal itinerary for beginners: 7-day Portugal Plan
First day- Arrive in Lisbon
Second Day- Explore Lisbon (as mentioned above)
Third day- Sintra, explore the hiking trail and natural landscape
Fourth Day- Lisbon to Porto
Fifth day- Explore Porto
Sixth day- Douro Valley Day trip ( wine region and charming villages)
Seventh day- Porto to Lisbon & Departure
Above mentioned details are completely oriented to explore the country to the most of it. There are many first time in Portugal tips which will help you to plan your trip if this country were home to you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this country is the perfect blend of architecture, history, and charming cities, which should not be missed. We hope that this blog details must have helped you, especially first time in Portugal tips.
However, from things to do to the stunning landscape, this blog has everything you need to regarding your trip.
Apart from this, if you are planning to make a trip to Portugal, one of the most important things is a Portugal tourist visa. For further details, go through our website and fill up the application form.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit this incredible place is Spring(April to June) and fall(July and August).
If you are planning to apply for a Portugal visa, make sure that you go through our website and fill up the application. One of the experts will reach out and assist you with further appointment details. After the verification, you will get your visa and passport in 15 to 20 working days.
The capital of Portugal is Lisbon, it is the largest city in the country as well. The city is known for its vibrant square and beautiful viewpoint which you can’t miss if you’re in Portugal.
