Top 8 Things to Do in Portugal

Beauty meets history as Portugal is one of Europe’s oldest countries. The deep heritage is rooted in historical towns and ancient ruins from Celts to Romans, Visigoths to Moors. Whether following the trail of the Knights Templar or stepping through the corridors of a lost culture, Portugal surprises many visitors with the depth of culture spread. Across the enchanting settings of palaces and misty woodlands, seaside castles, and preserved labyrinths of medieval town centers, there is something to discover around every corner.

Best Places to Visit for Cultural History: Lisbon | Porto | Tomar | Coimbra | Angra do Heroísmo | Évora

Best Time to Visit: March | April | May | September | October

Portugal’s cuisine has the unique advantage of rising from the rugged mountains, lush valleys, and the Mediterranean Sea. With a stunning array of multicultural influences, Portuguese food will immerse you in the flavors of the past with a celebration of contemporary gastronomic aesthetics. With both the effects of past colonialism and modern globalization, you will find fresh seafood, delicious wines, and seasonal produce steeped in the flavors of local nutrients that blend at least 800 years of tradition.

Best Places to Visit for Food: Lisbon | Douro Valley | Porto | Évora | Algarve Region | Beira Region

Best Time to Visit: March | April | May | September | October

The wine tradition is strong and thriving in Portugal. With numerous awards, abundant international recognition, and exclusive cultural experiences, Portugal plunges you into the landscape and culture of the wine that reveals the distinctive personalities of the local soils and the different winemaking regions.

Best Wine Regions to Visit: Douro Valley | Viseu | Aveiro | Madeira | Évora | Reguengos de Monsaraz

Best Time to Visit:  April | May | September | October | November

Many are surprised to learn that Portugal is a haven for cycling excursions. From the eastern frontier to Moorish villages scattered throughout the Guadiana Valley, explore the dramatic coastal cliffs, historic city walls, and epic ancient ruins that bring to life the history and wonder of Portugal’s tangible charms. Whether exploring the unknown north or winding around the vineyards of the Douro Valley, Portugal offers fantastic freedom around to explore the diverse scenery.

Best Places to Visit for Cycling: Alentejo Region |  Ecovia do Litoral | Guadiana Valley Natural Park | Ria Formosa Natural Park | Peneda Geres National Park

Best Time to Visit: March | April | May | September | October

Museums in Portugal immerse you in the heritage of the country. Exhibitions and galleries range from artistic platforms that showcase the exploration of the Western World to the rich blend of significant cultural artifacts brought from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. With exquisite architecture, magnificent monuments, and exceptional artifacts, Portugal’s museums give you elaborate displays of priceless treasures.

Best Places to Visit for Museums: Lisbon | Porto | Monsaraz | Évora | Funchal

Best Time to Visit: March | April | May | September | October

As one of the oldest countries in Europe, Portugal’s cities embrace their past but move with a contemporary rhythm. Portugal is small but mighty, with a range of diversity within its borders that reveal extraordinary layers of cultural heritage and history. Whether in cities edging the wine country, cobblestone medieval centers, or ancient ruins hiding in plain sight, Portugal’s urban landscapes will give you a completely different perspective of the country’s beauty and charm.

Best Cities to Visit: Lisbon | Porto | Coimbra | Sintra | Obidos | Faro | Braga

Best Time to Visit: April | May | June | September | October

Portuguese cooking is not just the flavor of the food but also the spirit of the food. Any cooking class in Portugal celebrates the entire process of a meal. From the ingredients of the recipes to the surroundings of the dining room, the ambiance stems from the friendly people as much as from the beautiful scenery. With stunning wines, diverse landscapes, and seasonal ingredients, a cooking class in Portugal will show you the culture's essential flavors.

Best Places to Visit for a Cooking Class: Lisbon | Algarve Region | Porto | Albufeira | Évora

Best Time to Visit:  April | May | June | September | October

Portugal shines with the golden sands that span much of the nation’s more than 1,056 miles of coastline. You can enjoy the diverse scenery at a relaxed pace when sitting on unique red cliffs or visiting a remote fishing village worthy of a postcard. With lavish resorts, fantastic waves, and waters ranging from turquoise to azure, cobalt to crystal, Portugal is an idyllic destination for any beach getaway.

Best Places to Visit for Beaches: Praia de Marinha | Praia da Arrifana | Moledo | Aveiro | Setubal | Brejao | Sintra

Best Time to Visit: July | August | September

Portugal is an immersion into the Iberian Peninsula, a true escape for travelers eager to find distinctive wines or experience a family-friendly tour of a historic fortress. With welcoming beaches and storybook castles, Portugal offers you a timeless sense of history and culture easily explored through a variety of transportation options. You can find helpful tips, historical insights, and possible future adventures with Zicasso’s Portugal Travel Guide. If you want to plan a trip, you can speak to a Portugal travel specialist by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707.