Compare Portugal holidays

Enchanting landscapes, archaeological treasures and world-class food and wine: this is Portugal at its best. Equal parts traditional and forward-thinking, Portugal has an abundance of beautiful beaches, historic harbours, cool cities and historic landmarks to explore.

Ride Lisbon’s trams

Distinctive yellow trams rattle through central Lisbon, travelling from the riverfront along narrow cobbled streets and curving up to the hilltops, where the sparkling River Tagus and terracotta rooftops come into view. Catch the famous No.28 for a low-cost tour of Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, Alfama and Baixa. Be sure to ride right to the end – you won’t want to miss the views from the top.

Livraria Lello

This magical bookshop in the Clerigos neighbourhood of Porto is arguably the most beautiful in the world. Opened by brothers Jose and Antonio Lello in 1906, it is floor-to-ceiling books, with intricate wood panelling and a stained glass ceiling over a red spiral staircase. Its popularity means you need a ticket to get in, but you can book online and redeem your ticket against a purchase.

Pena Palace and Park

Surrounded by lush forests on the side of Sintra Mountain, the colourful Pena Palace was the Portuguese royal family’s summer residence, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The enchanting palace sits in the centre of the park grounds, which contains Tapada do Mocho, the Moorish Castle and a garden with 500-plus species of trees. It’s just a short train ride from Lisbon, but it feels like stepping into a spellbinding forest.

Belem

Portugal's Age of Discovery is commemorated in Lisbon’s district of Belem. Spend a day discovering its colonial history at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument and Belem Tower, then visit the stunning Jerónimos Monastery for its ornate cloisters with nautical motifs. Day trips to Belem aren’t complete without sampling a custard tart from Pasteis de Belem – they’re considered to be among the best in the world.

Douro Valley vineyards

Whether you arrive by car, train or take a boat trip from Porto up the river, Douro Valley’s terraced vineyards make a dramatic impression every time. The perfect place to try Portugal’s famous port, make a visit to a winery and learn how the signature drink is made – some even let you squash grapes barefoot yourself!

Benagil Cave

Take a mini-adventure to the Algarve’s most famous sea cave, a vast limestone dome cut off from the rest of the beach. Hire a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard from nearby Praia de Benagil (swimming is not advised), and enter this mystical sea cave, where rays of light stream through the natural hole in the roof.

Aveiro’s moliceiros

Originally used to gather algae, the colourful gondolas called moliceiros are the perfect way to ride Aveiro’s scenic network of canals and see the city. Nicknamed “The Venice of Portugal”, the best views of Aveiro’s art nouveau buildings are from the water. When you step off, visit the fish market and make sure you try Aveiro’s famous ovos moles, a traditional pastry of sugar and eggs.

Portugal’s beautiful beaches stretch all along its 500-mile coastline, so there’s plenty of choice for a beach holiday. To give you some inspiration, we’ve picked five of the best.

Praia da Marinha

A set of stone steps descend to a picture-postcard beach, sheltered by golden seacliffs. With some of the clearest water in Portugal, Praia da Marinha is a beach worth making the effort for.

Praia da Dona Ana

Surrounded by a set of dramatic sandstone cliffs, Praia da Dona Ana is one of the most popular beaches near Lagos. A great one for kids, the water is shallow and calm, and the soft sand is perfect for castle building.

Praia do Portinho da Arrábida

Just an hour from Lisbon, Praia do Portinho da Arrábida is a peaceful white-sand beach backed by a dense pine forest. Despite its beauty, the beach stays quiet but you’ll need a car to get here.

Praia do Senhor da Pedra

A short distance from Porto, this golden sand beach stands out for its hexagonal chapel built on a rocky outcrop – perfect for sunset photos. Head to the southern end for a good swimming spot. ​​

Meia Praia

At more than 5km (3 miles) long, this stretch of sand has space for everyone. Not far from Lagos, popular Meia Praia has plenty to keep you busy, with cafés, sun-loungers, and lots of watersports, too. 

Portugal’s peak season runs from late June to early September, when beach resorts and coastal towns, particularly around the Algarve, heave with festivals, markets and nightlife. Shoulder season is May to early June and mid-September to October. With fewer people and lower prices, this is a brilliant time to visit Portugal on a budget. To find the best deals on your Portugal holiday, compare prices well in advance.

When is the cheapest time to visit?

Although January and February are the rainiest months of the year, the cheap flights, low-cost hotels and highs of 18C make it a good time to visit Portugal’s cities for less. There are package deals and hotel bargains in spring and autumn, too – just avoid Christmas and Easter.

When should I go for the best weather?

Portugal’s spring is warm, dry and inviting, with temperatures touching 20C. March to early June is ideal for seeing the country in full bloom with mild, sunny weather. If you like a warm sea, August, September and early October are warm and great for diving, swimming and surfing. June and July bring high temperatures (23C on average), but Atlantic breezes keep coastal resorts from feeling too hot. 

Is it safe to go to Portugal?

Holidays to Portugal are generally trouble-free. For the most up-to-date travel advice for Portugal, check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Do I need a visa to go to Portugal?

You can travel to Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

What vaccinations do I need to go to Portugal?

You don’t need any vaccinations to visit Portugal. For the most up-to-date advice, consult the NHS website before you travel.

Are there any local customs I need to be aware of?

Tipping isn’t essential, but you’re expected to round up the bill at a restaurant.

Getting around Portugal

Hiring a vehicle is the easiest way to explore Portugal, but be aware, while the motorways are great for getting around, tolls can be expensive. There’s a well-connected railway network for travel between towns and cities, and buses head into more rural areas. Both Porto and Lisbon have metro networks.