places to visit in portugal in april

Portugal in April: Weather, What to Expect & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2023

Portugal in April: Weather, What to Expect & Tips

Are you thinking of visiting Portugal in April and wondering what it’s like? We have been to Portugal in April several times, both on the mainland and also on Madeira Island. In this article, we share our experience and tips for your visit.

What to expect, where to go, and what to know when planning a trip to Portugal in April. Find out!

Portugal has relatively mild winters and hot summers. Spring is a shoulder season and is a great time to visit!

In April, average daytime temperatures in Portugal are around 18-20°C (65-68°F). Rain isn’t uncommon, but mostly, you can expect beautiful sunny skies. Sometimes temperatures rise to summer-like 25°C (77°F), which is almost too warm for exploring the cities.

Our experience: We visited Portugal in April several times. During one of those trips, in the first half of April, we had sunshine for 10 days non-stop, and it was warm enough to wear t-shirts and shorts.

Another time, in the middle of April, we had a bit colder weather and it rained once or twice over the course of two weeks. Usually, we needed a sweater during the day and even a rain jacket on a few occasions in the evening.

Yet another time, we spent several weeks in the Algarve region in April and we only wore a sweater twice. The kids even went swimming in the sea several times.

Best Places to Visit

The whole of Portugal can be visited in the spring, however, some places are nicer this time of the year than others.

When traveling in April, you can’t go wrong with Portuguese cities and towns . Lisbon , Porto, Coimbra, and also smaller towns like Sintra , Evora, or Obidos are all great this time of the year. Everything is open, it’s not too hot for sightseeing, there are fewer tourists, and there are also all kinds of local events.

Spring is also a wonderful time to visit the famous monasteries of central Portugal. Alcobaca, Batalha, but also Tomar and Fatima are all worth a visit. What’s great is that the monasteries are very quiet and you can truly appreciate these architectural masterpieces. We were told that it might get busy around Easter, so check if there’s anything special going on. However, we were there just before Easter and there were hardly any tourists at all.

April is also a great time to visit parks and forests , with so many flowering plants everywhere. Don’t miss the gardens of the Sintra castles and Mata du Busssaco in Luso.

The weather is also usually pleasant for exploring the beaches of Algarve or the Alentejo coastline. However, it’s often still a bit too cold for swimming and beach activities. But there are many warm days and so most waterparks in the Algarve region open for the season in April already.

Good to know: April is not the best time to visit the vineyards of Douro in Northern Portugal. Most vines are still leafless and the whole area looks very dry and brown after the winter. The views and the scenery are still impressive but don’t expect the beautiful green vineyards that you see in the travel brochures.

READ ALSO: Best day trips from Lisbon (most are perfectly doable in April!) Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit

Advantages of Visiting in April

There are several advantages of visiting Portugal in April, and here are the main ones:

There are fewer tourists. April is still a relatively quiet season for tourists in Portugal, and even the most popular landmarks are not too busy yet. Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto are already quite lively at this time of the year, but everywhere else, it’s still very quiet.
Flowers. Lots of plants are blooming at this time of the year, so spring is a really nice season to visit Portugal. All over the country, there are flowers, bushes, and trees blooming already.
It’s cheaper. Portugal is already one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe, but if you visit during the shoulder season, it’s even more affordable. It’s quite easy to find really good deals for car rental . Also accommodations, especially outside the most popular areas, are quite affordable this time of the year.
Almost everything is open. While this is not an issue in bigger towns any time of the year, many seasonal businesses – especially at the coast – close for the winter. April is the start of the summer season in Portugal when those places start to open up. Even some of the best water parks in Algarve are already open in April.
Perfect weather for sightseeing. If you visit Portugal in order to explore the country and not for its beaches, then April is a wonderful time for that. In summer, it’s really too hot to explore cities, whereas spring temperatures are ideal for sightseeing.

All this makes Portugal a great spring break destination in Europe . It’s not as busy, not as hot, and not as expensive as in the summer – a perfect combination for families.

Disadvantages of Visiting in April

Since it’s shoulder season, there are also some disadvantages of visiting Portugal in April:

Unpredictable weather. As already mentioned, the weather in Portugal is quite mild and spring can be beautiful. But it remains a bit of a gamble and you may get some colder, windier days with some rain as well.
It’s a bit too cold for swimming. April is usually a bit too early to enjoy the beaches and the outdoor pools of the hotels to the fullest. We saw some people on the beaches in Portugal on the warmest April days, but only very few of them went in the water. The seawater is still quite cold after the winter. But if you get really lucky with the weather, you might be able to enjoy the beaches to the fullest, especially in the Algarve. It really varies year by year and even week by week.
In some places, nature isn’t awake yet. While most places we visited in Portugal in April, were green and beautiful, some were not awake after the winter yet. The famous Douro Valley close to Porto was a big disappointment in the first half of April because all you could see were dry vine plants.

Lisbon & Porto in April

We love exploring big cities in Portugal in April. It’s lively, but not too busy, mostly because there are not too many cruise ships in the area at this time of the year. So you can truly enjoy city life and tourist attractions without huge crowds.

That being said, the most popular places in Lisbon and Porto are already busy. This is especially the case if your visit coincides with two or three big cruise ships visiting on the same day.

Another thing that makes a city trip to Portugal more pleasant in April is that you can truly enjoy the cities and the weather is great for sightseeing . In winter, it’s colder and it’s wet, and in summer, it’s often so hot that it’s not pleasant. That’s why April is the perfect month to visit Lisbon or Porto.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Lisbon & How to See the Best of Lisbon in One Day

Algarve in April

The Algarve region in southern Portugal is best known for its stunning beaches and the most beautiful coastline. Because most people come here for the beaches, April is still a quiet season here. Although, most popular resorts see more and more tourists, especially around the Easter holidays.

The bigger towns with more full-time inhabitants (like Faro, Tavira, Portimao, Albufeira , or Lagos ) are quite lively and most places here are open in April. Most hotels in Albufeira are open the whole year round, but even those that close for the summer, start to open in April again.

Also, boat tours to the most popular places along the coast, such as Benagil Cave or Ponta da Piedade run more frequently in April.

However, the smaller towns that live mostly from tourism (e.g. Sagres), seem to just start waking up after the winter break. So some smaller places along the coast can still be closed in April, or have somewhat limited opening times.

April is perfect for exploring the coastline and most beautiful beaches in Algarve , long walks on the beach, bike rides, or surfing.

So if you like the somewhat quieter, off-season feeling and outdoorsy activities, you’ll love Algarve in April. If, however, you want to go swimming and sunbathing every day, and enjoy nightlife and other touristy activities, then it’s best to come between May and September – October.

Central Portugal in April

Of all the places we visited in Portugal in April, we enjoyed Central Portugal the most.

There were hardly any tourists in the smaller towns, but also at the abbeys, which are a major draw in the area. Furthermore, the weather was great for sightseeing and since the tourism season was just starting, locals were relaxed and had time for a chat.

Also, there were plenty of nice local restaurants open in smaller towns where we could enjoy some really good food (at very low prices).

We saw so many beautiful places and it was just busy enough to not feel alone. There were more locals than tourists everywhere we went and it was a really relaxing vacation, as a vacation should be.

Madeira in April

Portuguese Madeira Island is a year-round destination, with mild weather during the entire year. In April, you can expect daytime temperatures of 18-20°C (64-68°F) and lots of sunshine. It’s common to have temperatures of 25°C (77°F) or more as well. However, if you are a bit less lucky, it can also be a few degrees colder and you might get some rain.

In general, it should be warm enough for t-shirts and shorts in Funchal . But you’ll definitely need a sweater and sometimes also a light jacket in the mountains. We found the April weather perfect for hiking in Madeira .

The good thing about Madeira is that because of its hilly interior, the weather can be very different in various places across the island. So you can usually find sunshine somewhere on the island, even on rainy days.

Our experience: When we visited Madeira in April, we had less-than-perfect weather. It was about 15-16°C (60°F) on most days, the rain was on the forecast almost daily, and there were quite some clouds in the mountains making one hike we wanted to do impossible.

However, by checking the weather forecast for various locations on the island, we managed to avoid rain during the entire stay of over 10 days. On a few occasions, we wore shorts and t-shirts, but most of the time, we needed a sweater and sometimes even a jacket.

The locals told us that the weather was ‘as bad as it ever gets in Madeira, even in winter’. So apparently it’s normally much warmer and sunnier in Madeira in April than what we experienced. My parents visited Madeira in April a year after we did and they had beautiful summer-like weather on most days.

Azores in April

The best time to visit the Azores Islands is in summer, between June and August. May and September are a bit of the shoulder months, and in April, it’s still quite rainy and not very warm yet.

Average high daytime temperatures in Sao Miguel in April are around 15°C (59°F), and it rains one day out of the three. On the other hand, it can also get as warm as 20° (68°F), and you might have more sunshine.

So if you are prepared for the less stable and less predictable weather and keep some flexibility in your schedule, April might be a nice time to experience the more local side of the Azores, without many tourists.

TIP: If you decide to visit the Azores in April, I’d recommend focusing on the main islands, such as Sao Miguel . On the smallest islands like Flores, even in high season, facilities are rather limited.

Miradouro da Boca do Inferno in Cetes Cidades in Sao Miguel, Azores

So, this is an overview of what you can expect when visiting Portugal in April.

As you can see, April is a great time to visit Portugal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, but not ideal for a beach vacation. All in all, it’s a wonderful month to visit!

I hope that our experience gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan a wonderful trip and enjoy the very best that Portugal has to offer in spring.

For more inspiration and information about various places in Portugal, please check our Portugal Travel Guide . It contains all our articles from various trips to different regions and useful tips for planning your trip. Check it out!

Portugal Weather in April: Overview

Temperature range: 12–20°C (54–68°F)
Rainfall: 7 cm (3 inches)
Rainy days: 10
Humidity: 70%
Sunshine hours/day: 7 hours

April Climate Comparison (Averages) for Portugal's Top Tourism Areas

In April, Portugal is mild or warm at the low elevations, and because there are 7 hours of sunshine, you will often feel warm during the day at the tourist highlights. You could get out into nature for extended hikes and visit Portugal's historical and urban attractions.

Northern Portugal: The region has an Atlantic oceanic climate. There are more storms, rain, and cooler temperatures. Daily highs reach a pleasant 18°C (64°F) with 7 hours of warm sunshine.

Central and southern Portugal: The Algarve and the Alentejo region east of Lisbon generally experience Mediterranean-like weather. It is warmer, sunnier, and drier, so there is good weather for sightseeing, hiking, and touring. The area near Lisbon has good surfing conditions.

Madeira Island: Madeira gets cloudier in April.

Azores: See below.

The Best Places to Visit in Portugal in April

Portugal is one of the sunniest places in Europe, and in April, it is as sunny as Greece, except that Madeira gets cloudier. You could welcome the sunshine and warm weather while visiting historical places and ancient ruins and enjoy hiking. Flowers, both wild and cultivated, bloom abundantly

1.Lisbon — Enjoy Historical Highlights and Excursions to Beaches and Countryside Towns

Lisbon is the sunniest capital city in Europe with 8 hours of sunshine a day in April. The 70% humidity makes the average 20°C (68°F) daily highs actually feel a little warmer in the sun, so you can take pleasant warm walks. Low rainfall falls about 12 days in April.

Historic places such as the Castelo de São Jorge that is a big castle with a museum are highlights. When the weather is sunny, historic towns such as Sintra (30 minutes' drive) or Évora (90 minutes' drive) have countryside beauty to hike and stroll in and historic places and archeological sites.

There are good beaches near Lisbon. Ericeira that is about 35 minutes away by vehicle has about the best surf in Portugal in April. The sea temperature is about 16°C (60°F) or lower, so you will need a wetsuit for comfort.

2. Eastern Alentejo — Get Away to the Beauty of Spring

The middle belt region of the country east of Lisbon is called the Alentejo, and the central and eastern regions of the Alentejo are drier with pleasant weather and much sunshine in April. A good base for a tour of the area is Évora from which you could visit the countryside.

There are daily highs of about 21°C (70°F), 8 hours or more of sunshine, and 10 days of rain each April. Évora in Alentejo is 90 minutes from Lisbon by vehicle and has luxury and middle-budget hotels, Roman ruins, huge cathedrals and palaces and an estimated 7,000-year-old megalithic site.

The Alentejo countryside is one of the most beautiful in Portugal in April with pastures, farms and countryside. Great day trips include Arraiolos, where there is a castle and carpet making, and Estremoz, where there is a castle and lots of marble construction.

3. The Azores — Enjoy Adventure and Lush Beauty

The Azores have subtropical oceanic weather. It is pleasant and mild and when it is not raining, the weather is suitable for hiking, whale watching, and soaking in the hot springs. There are colorful wildflowers and lush greenery and many hiking paths.

There is a variety of terrain. Mount Pico is the tallest mountain in Portugal's territory with an elevation of 2,351 m (7,713 feet). The beaches are beautiful, but it is too cold to swim since the water temperature is 16°C (61°F). Accommodation prices are lower than in the busy summer months.

There is a mix of sunny days with highs about 18°C (64°F) and occasional rainy days. There are about 10 days of moderate rainfall, but the weather varies from island to island, and there are microclimates. Flights to Ponte Delgada (PDL) on Sao Miguel take two hours from Lisbon.

4.Algarve — Hike, Kayak, and Do Outdoor Activities in Pleasant Spring Weather

Algarve is the southern region of continental Portugal. In Algarve, the average daily highs reach 20°C (68°F), and you will feel comfortable even basking on the beaches most of the month with 8 hours of bright sunshine and 69% humidity. There are about 10 days of low rainfall in April.

In April, you can enjoy the hotels and resorts with low to moderate occupancy and prices, and there is a quiet ambience suitable for enjoying the outdoors. and Flight ticket prices are moderate. Almost everything is open, but not busy.

April and May are best for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking in the most beautiful scenery with fresh green vegetation and wildflowers dotting the hillsides and fields. You could hike the many trails, such as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, bike, and kayak.

Low Tourism Season: Touring Advice for April

Though there are no crowds like those of summer, the visitor numbers start to steadily rise in April, particularly in hotspots like the Algarve, where often the days seem like summer with bright sunshine and warm temperatures. The latter half of April is drier and more summerlike than the first half.

There are deals for flights and hotels unless it is Easter vacation period, when prices and traveler numbers are high. For many people, the summer is too bright and hot for outdoors activities, but April weather feels optimal. It is too cold for swimming though.

Public holidays in April:

April 25 is Freedom Day , a national holiday. Businesses and government offices close. They celebrate the revolution in 1974 that ended the dictatorship and started the democracy.
Easter: If Easter is in April, then Easter Sunday is a national holiday. The Friday before it, Good Friday, is also a national holiday. Easter 2024 is in March, but Easter 2025 is April 18–20.

What to Wear in April

You will need to bring a jacket, and dress in layers to be comfortable. Have an umbrella or poncho for rainy days especially if you are going to the north or mountains. Bring summer and beach clothes too.

Shoes: Sturdy shoes with good traction help you walk on the smooth cobblestone streets and historical sites and to prevent slips and fall. The historic cities and old towns have lots of old cobbled streets.

Wetsuits: The average sea temperature is about 16°C (61°F) or lower at most of Portugal's beach highlights in April, so it is too cold for swimming comfortably without a wetsuit.

UV protection: With so much sunshine in Portugal, if you have sensitive skin, wear a sunhat, and cover up with long sleeves and long trousers or dresses. You might want to wear polarized glasses too.

Recommended Tours for Portugal in April

We at Global Highlights specialize in hosting bespoke tailor-made tours, and we consider your travel goals and work with the weather and local culture to make your dream trip a reality. Enjoy a private tour with an expert guide and private driver who speaks Greek. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry.

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Portugal

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Portugal in April: A Country in Bloom

Why visit portugal in april.

Spring is gorgeous in Portugal. The countryside bursts with new foliage, and the wildflowers are in bloom. A visit to Portugal in April will mean that you can take advantage of the spring sunshine too. The preparations for Easter mean that the summer season is well and truly on its way. You can enjoy many activities all over Portugal in April, and the weather will usually be kind while you’re here.

Weather in April

April showers in the northern hemisphere is a real thing, and Portugal is no different. If you visit Portugal in April, you’re likely to see at least a few days of rain. The benefit of this is the beautiful lush landscape that you can enjoy on the sunnier days. April is a changeable month, but Easter heralds the gradual return of warmer weather.

If you head south for your holiday, to the Algarve , you’re more likely to see the sun. Whereas in the north, particularly in the mountains, temperatures are still fresh.

The Azores islands in the mid-Atlantic are temperate all year round and have an average high of 17c in April. Madeira , also part of Portugal, lies off the northwest coast of Africa and enjoys a subtropical climate.

The average temperatures in April, in the northern city of Braga, are between 17c and 8c. In the southern town of albufeira, the average high in April is 20c.

You will get around nine hours of sun each day in the Algarve. Sunrise is around 6 am, and sunset is at 7 pm in the middle of April.

Timezone in Portugal

The time in Portugal changes from GMT to DST changes at the end of March. If you visit Portugal in April, you will notice that the evenings are long and light.

What to do in Portugal in April

Feira do chocolate in óbidos.

Óbidos is beautiful in any season, but in April, you can enjoy two of the biggest events of the year there. The Chocolate Festival is inexpensive and great fun with plenty of activities to take part in. You can buy tickets for the closed event in the castle area of town at the main ticket office near the car park, or at the festival gates. If you prefer you can also arrange a hotel and festival package in the area.

There are a myriad of stalls selling a variety of sweet treats , and you must check out the chocolate sculptures on display at the catering school. All of the main streets in Óbidos are likely to be busy during the festival, but it’s easy to duck off the main paths to take in the medieval atmosphere. Head down the hill a little, and you will find yourself on the winding roads that lead to the castle and chocolate festival.

The program for all the activities during the festival is available on flyers all around town so that you don’t miss the fun. There are body painting demonstrations, a fashion show, concerts, and cooking demonstrations. In 2020 the Chocolate Festival will run from April 25 to May 5.

Peixe em Lisboa

This is a gastronomic celebration of seafood in Lisbon over 11 days in April. You can enjoy cooking workshops and taste gourmet fish dishes prepared by celebrated chefs.

From April 7 to 17, 2020, you will learn all about the traditional fish dishes of central Portugal. It is designed for visitors to enjoy and which allows them to learn about local cuisine and Portuguese wine. As part of the Lisbon Fish and Flavours event, you’ll also be entertained by local dance performances and folk music groups.

In 2020, Easter falls in April, and there is a big celebration in Óbidos over Holy Week. The festivities start at the beginning of Lent with the Procession of the Third Order of St. Francis of flower-laden floats. Then on Palm Sunday, the Senhor dos Passos procession winds through the walled town.

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The highlight of the Easter festivities is the solemn Good Friday evening funeral procession around Obidos lit only by flaming torches along the route. In 2020 the Holy Week processions will take place between April 5 and 12.

Holy Week in Braga

Braga, to the north of the county, also has celebrations in the Easter period. The churches are filled with flowers, and streets are decorated with lights during Easter week.

Mundo Abreu exhibition

This travel and tourism event takes place in late March or early April in Lisbon. The exhibition consists of a variety of stands from different countries, all promoting the beautiful sites that they recommend tourists visit in their country.

In 2019, over 700 exhibitors took part, both domestic and international. In addition to the stands, there are cultural exhibitions and shows, such as music, dancing, and storytelling.

What to eat in April

Come the end of April, you will start to see signs in cafes advertising “ Há caracois ” (roughly, “Snails are here”). The appearance of these delicious tiny snails means it’s time to enjoy them in the sun with a beer.

Usually cooked in broth with rosemary and a dash of piri piri, these are an excellent starter or snack with a cold drink. Lisbon is where you will tend to see caracois, and they herald the beginning of summer and the return of outdoor cafe culture.

The end of April is also the start of the local strawberry season. If the weather has been good, you will see Portuguese and Spanish strawberries in the shops. Locally grown fruits in season , such as strawberries, apples, and rhubarb, are delicious and much more flavorful than the imported varieties.

Where to stay in Portugal

There are plenty of hotels in Portugal, from budget to boutique. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

Hotel Casa Das Senhoras Rainhas

Set inside the city walls of Óbidos, this attractive boutique hotel overlooks the castle walls. It has a restaurant serving regional specialties, plus a bar with a terrace to relax on.

A night in mid-April costs from €95. You can find more details and book here .

Casal de Eira Branca

This hotel is also set in the centre of medieval Óbidos offers accommodation full of charm. It is a listed building with panoramic views of the old walled city. You can enjoy original ceramics and paintings in the public areas by local artists.

An advantage of Casal de Eira Branca is the communal kitchen area that guests can use. You can also use the outdoor dining area in the summer.

In April, one night at Casal de Eira Branca costs from €50. Further details are available and reservations can be made here .

Browns Downtown Hotel

This super-hip hotel in the centre of Lisbon is a great choice. It has contemporary decor, iMac computers in every room, and is excellently situated for the main attractions.

You are within a 15-minute walk of the bars and restaurants of Bairro Alto. It is also close enough to the stores of Baixa-Chiado to stroll around to find the best souvenirs.

Browns Downtown Hotel costs from €140 in mid-April. Book your spot here .

Vila Gale Collection Braga

This beautiful hotel in Braga has comfortable accommodation with a restaurant, bar, and free parking. The 4-star Vila Gale Collection Braga is set in private gardens and has both an indoor and outdoor pool.

Rooms here cost from €100 in April, and more information is available here.

Golden Tulip Hotel and Spa

This restored 18th-century convent in the Minho region is conveniently located to enjoy Braga. It has indoor and outdoor pools for children and adults, and spa facilities to help you relax.

The hotel’s Do Convento restaurant serves the best of local and international cuisine and boasts panoramic views of the valley that surrounds the hotel.

Prices in April start from €80, and you can find more information and book your spot here .

Are there any bank holidays in April?

Easter falls in April in 2020. April 10 is Good Friday, and Easter Sunday is on April 12. Easter is observed in Portugal, but supermarkets in cities will still be open on these days.

April 25 is a national holiday every year and is known as Día da Liberdade (Freedom Day). It commemorates the 1974 Carnation Revolution that ended the dictatorship. It also celebrates the first free elections that took place a year later on April 25, 1975.

How hot is it in Portugal in April?

April in Portugal is generally pleasant weather but not very hot. Usually in the second half of April, Portugal starts to warm up, often between 21 and 25 degrees C. You might still get a rainy day here and there, so definitely prepare to dress in layers and bring a light jacket.

What is the best time of year to go to Portugal?

The best time of year to go to Portugal depends on what you’d like to experience during your Portugal vacation. Summer months are great beach weather. Spring and fall means fewer tourists, but still fabulous weather. Winter is rainy and cool – perfect for exploring without tourists!

What country is hot in April?

The warmest European countries in April include Portugal, Greece, and Spain. The Algarve, in southern Portugal, is particularly warm during April as compared to other parts of the country. While not quite summer beach weather, it’s dry, sunny, and delightful in April.

Where should I go in April?

If you’re visiting Portugal in April, consider the country’s southern region. The Algarve has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and is already feeling early summer temperatures by mid-April. You’ll be able to shake off winter’s cold before the full tourist season begins.

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Portugal in April: Weather, Things to do, Best tips and more!

Introduction.

With its cobblestoned villages, golden beaches, and captivating cities, Portugal is a country that has got it all. This dream destination offers you everything from scenery, history, culture, and great cuisine, and believe it or not, this is merely the start! For far too long the travel community has shunned Portugal in favour of a trip to Spain. We are here to tell you that this shouldn’t be the case anymore. With the renaissance giving a new lease of life to an already extremely gorgeous country, we suggest you read on to know more about travel to Portugal in April.

Portugal Tour Package @ ₹75,379*

Explore Hidden Cave Beaches of Algarve. Visit Belém Tower. Spend sometime at Braga Cathedral. Discover Jerónimos Monastery. Savour Delicious Egg Tarts. Go Canoeing in Furnas Lake.

Weather in Portugal in April

Temperatures rise in April as summers approach. Although tourists may be caught off guard by slight variations in temperatures around the country, on the whole, the country is blessed with plenty of sunshine. Like many other months, there is a variation to be seen as far as the weather is concerned between the northern and the southern regions of the country. The Algarve region fares off the best with the island of Madeira enjoying subtropical weather to go with the beaches present there.

Let’s crunch some numbers now! To speak in terms of numbers, we will be referring to the capital city of Lisbon as it is a good marker of what the weather is like in the rest of the country. Tourists can expect an average high of about 20 degrees Celsius in the month of April. This might motivate you to pack some cool t-shirts and shorts and be done with it, but we advise you to go the extra mile and pack some warm clothes too. We say so because the evenings can get quite cool even with the increasing temperatures. Coming to average sea temperatures, the mercury was recorded at an average of 16 degrees Celsius with low humidity to go with it.

Speaking in terms of numbers, the humidity ranges from the low 50s to just over 90%. Moving onto rainfall – travellers can expect an average rainfall of 64 mm for over 11 rainy days in total. We shall be discussing daylight as the last topic in this section. Lisbon gets 13 hours of daylight with approximately 8 hours of sunshine every day. Although the UV levels are high, the sun sets at 8 PM and this time increases progressively along with the month.

Also read: Portugal in February: A Complete Guide for Best Travel Experiences!

Things to Do in Portugal in April

Following are some excellent choices for activities that you can engage in on your trip to Portugal in Apri l:

Tackle long-distance trails ( in parts or in entirety ) like the Portuguese leg of the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage route.
Another trail that you can sign up for is the Alentejo’s Rota Vicentina Fisherman’s trail, travellers will enjoy this little-known stretch of the Atlantic Coast.
Head to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from Sintra, or Braga to check out attractions like the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Mente or Manueline Monastery of Batalha.
Owing to the improved weather conditions, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities like canyoning, kayaking, diving, and climbing.

Also read: Portugal in December: Weather, Travel tips, Things to do and more!

What to Pack for Portugal in April

Travel backpack
Medium-sized suitcase
Portable battery pack
Portable water bottle with filtration

What to Wear in Portugal in April

Dress shoes
Good pair of heels
Jean shorts
Summer dresses
Athletic shirts

Also read: Portugal in November: A Whole Guide for Perfect Travel Experiences!

Best Tips for Visiting Portugal in April

You will encounter fewer fellow tourists during your travels to Portugal in Apri l. This means that even the more mainstream, popular landmarks aren’t as busy yet. Main attractions like Lisbon, Porto, and Sintra might be busy but everywhere else, it is relatively quiet.
Spring has started to set in, so you can expect to see flowers, bushes, trees, etc in full bloom in most regions barring some exceptions.
There will be plenty of savings to be enjoyed during your trip to Portugal in April . While Portugal is already one of the most economical trips that you can take, April marks the shoulder season. As a result, travel and accommodation expenses shouldn’t be as high.
April marks the perfect weather for sightseeing. This is a particularly good time if you are visiting Portugal to explore the country and not head to the beaches.

Where to Stay in Portugal in April

1. hotel casa das senhoras rainhas.

This accommodation is a rather attractive boutique hotel located in Óbidos. The adjoining restaurant specialises in regional dishes. Other worldly amenities include a bar with a terrace to relax in during the evenings. Prices for a night start from 95 Euros and upwards.

2. Casal de Eira Branca

This accommodation set in Óbidos is full of charm. The building offers panoramic views of the whole city. Tourists can enjoy the works of local artists during their stay. The main highlight here, however, has to be the communal kitchen that guests are encouraged to use. There is also an outdoor dining area on offer. Prices for a stay at the hotel start from 50 Euros and upwards for a night.

3. Golden Tulip Hotel and Spa:

Located in the Minho region, this accommodation option is situated close to Braga. The building is essentially a restored 18th-century convent. It features amenities like indoor and outdoor pools for adults and children. Foodies can have a great stay here as the hotel’s DO Convento restaurant features excellent local and international cuisine. Prices for a night star for 60 Euros and upwards.

Also read: Portugal in July: Weather, Things to do, What to pack and much more!

Festivals in Portugal in April

Following is a description of some important festivals that tourists can take part in Portugal in April :

Semana Santa Holy Week – the week just before Easter is a rather big deal in Portugal. Tourists can expect to enjoy fairs, festivals, alluring religious parades and a lot more. If you are looking for the very best of these parades, then head to Braga. Portugal’s spiritual centre buzzes to life with churches donning elaborate decorations, Gregorian chants, and of course – parades!
Ovibeja – If you are jonesing to see the Alentejo region at its best, then the Ovibeja festival is the time for you. Beja is the time when all the stops are pulled for a five-day agricultural fair held in late April. One can check out prized animals, and enjoy workshops, exhibitions, and ofc the food to go with all these festivities.
International Chocolate Festival:

If you like chocolates then there is no better time to visit delightful and medieval Óbidos than the latter half of April. The chocolate festival brings plenty of treats to be enjoyed like chocolate tastings, cookery classes, sculptures and more.

FAQs about Portugal in April

A – As mentioned in the section above, the weather in Portugal in April is suitable for travel for the most part. However, the weather in Portugal always remains a bit of a gamble. Henceforth, we recommend that travellers pack accordingly so that they can face colder, windier, and rainy days as well.

A – Yes, the water temperatures haven’t risen substantially to allow for an enjoyable session in the water.

A – While most regions that travellers may visit on their trip to Portugal in April will be green, there definitely will be some exceptions along the way. Notable among these are regions like – Douro Valley near Porto among others. Henceforth, it is advisable to double-check your travel itinerary accordingly if your plans are based around Spring season-based activities.

This dream destination offers you everything you want. Plan a great vacation to Portugal in April and have the best travel experiences ever. Book best Portugal travel packages from Pickyourtrail at the best deals or customise your Portugal itinerary and plan it just the way you want, the choice is all yours. A great vacation away from the daily hustle and bustle is waiting for you, don’t miss it! See you soon 🙂

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When to Visit Portugal

Portugal in April: Spring's Delight

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~ mins read

April is when colors compete everywhere as the blooming season begins in Portugal; the countryside bursts with greenery and wildflowers dot the landscape. Cities like Porto dazzle with their multicolored buildings under the spring sun during this time of year. If you overlook the scattered remnants of winter rains, a trip to Portugal in April is bound to be a worthwhile experience, not just because of its warmer climate but also because of the chance to partake in Holy Week festivities.

gary Holzman
From Australia

Portugal Weather in April

Panoramic view of Funchal, the capital city of Madeira island, Portugal

Spring brings plenty of sunshine interspersed with a few days of rain after a grey and droopy winter. The capital city of Lisbon sees an average temperature of 15°C during this time of year, with highs that can spike up to 20°C and lows that go down to 12°C at night.

As Easter approaches, the weather gets warmer. Porto, situated in the north, is still a tad bit cooler, with days averaging at 18°C and nights dipping down to 9°C. With around nine days of rainfall, Porto is also wetter than Lisbon or the Algarve in April. The Algarve is pretty pleasant with days averaging 16 to 20°C, while temperatures on islands like the Azores could reach an average high of 17°C.

For an in-depth seasonal overview, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Portugal .

Weather in Portugal in April - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit portugal in april.

scene on the mercado dos lavradores in Madeira

Besides its captivating scenery and scores of local festivals adding zest and zing to the country, there are many reasons to discover Portugal in April . You will find a few of them below.

Better rates: April in Portugal is super affordable and a great time for budget travelers. They can easily save anywhere from 30 to 40 percent on peak summer rates on accommodation, airfare, and car rental rates.
Lesser crowds: Barring the Easter break when Portuguese families holiday with their kids in tow, April is a reasonably tourist-free month. You can easily avoid long queues at attractions and eat in peace at trendy restaurants and bars.
Longer days: Up to 12 hours of daylight and the sun setting at around 8:00 pm means that you have ample time to pack more activities in your itinerary. Though the seawater is cold and unfit for swimming, you can easily lounge on the beach without worrying as the sun practically shines for eight hours a day.
Festivals: Join in the rituals, parades, and processions that take place all over the country to celebrate Holy Week which culminates in the sacred festival of Easter. To experience the best, travel to Braga, Portugal's spiritual epicenter.
Outdoor activities: With modest temperature and less rainfall, April is perfect for outdoor explorations. Forests and national parks erupt with greenery during this time of year and exploring them now is particularly rewarding. Visit Unesco heritage sites like Sintra and hike without having to worry about rainfall or the harsh sun.

Where to go and what to do

tourist boat on sea at Ponta da Piedade, Algarve region, Portugal

Set the color wheel into motion in the country's south by visiting the Algarve or exploring Alentejo , both of which are covered with colorful displays of wildflowers like rock roses, green lavenders, wild orchids, and tree heaths during this month. For foodies, there is a lot to gorge on in Portugal in April. After tucking in some cabrito or roasted lamb on an Easter-day lunch, sample some delicious chocolate at the Chocolate Festival while on a tour of Obidos. Seafood lovers can head to Peixe em Lisboa, an eleven-day-long festival in Lisbon that celebrates traditional dishes made with fish.

Although the Algarve is yet to wake up after its winter hiatus, its sunny shores beckon travelers for coastal hiking, biking, beachcombing, and long, leisurely walks. With fewer people around, now is a great time to visit the monasteries of Central Portugal like Tomar and Alcobaca. Explore Porto or discover Lisbon on foot, especially when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer people around.

What to Bring

woman traveler in yellow sweater with hood is standing with raised arm

Although days are warmer across much of the country, do pack light, warm clothes for the evening and keep rainwear ready for an unpredictable wet spell.

Given the unpredictability of the weather in Portugal in April, the key to planning the ultimate spring getaway is to keep your plans flexible and an umbrella handy. Otherwise, Portugal in April is a mesmerizing month with warm, sunny days, pleasantly cool nights, and tons of fun activities to partake in. It is the best month to experience local festivities and visit natural sites to create a memorable holiday.

Take a peek at our travel guides if you want tips on how many days to spend in Portugal . A 10-day trip would of the ideal length to explore all the highlights that you should not miss out on. If you are strapped for time, a 7-day trip would give you a good glimpse of the country, though not as extensive. Looking for something exclusive? Get in touch with our local travel experts for a customized trip to Portugal .

Wait for no further and start planning your tour of Portugal in April !

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The best time to visit Portugal

Dec 18, 2023 • 5 min read

Whether you're looking for parties or peace and quiet, find the best time to visit to Portugal with our guide to all four seasons © iStock

For a packed calendar of traditional celebrations, decadent food festivals, outdoor concerts and many other events, head to Portugal . Summer is the time to catch the biggest range of activities, but in truth, there’s always something happening here .

Festivals aside, it’s not easy to pin down the best month to visit Portugal – that really depends on what you’re after. Outdoor activities in the south? Go in winter, when the crowds are thinnest, the prices are lowest , and the weather is pleasant but not hot. Beach days with plenty of time in the surf ? Visit in summer, when the water temperatures are warmest. A mix of urban exploration and hiking adventures in the wilderness in the north? Opt for the shoulder season, when it’s not so rainy and the cities aren’t yet filled with tourists.

No matter what type of experience you’re seeking, you’ll find your ideal scenario in our comprehensive guide to what's going on when in Portugal. Here's what's happening month-by-month throughout the year.

A sandy beach in a sheltered cove with people relaxing under colorful beach umbrellas

The high season – June to August – is the best time for the beach

Early summer is one of the liveliest times to visit Portugal, as the festival calendar is packed. Warm, sunny days are the norm, and while tourism picks up, the hordes have yet to arrive, particularly in the first half of June.

During the summer months, you’ll also find warmer ocean temperatures, especially as you head south to the Algarve . Water temps and crowds both peak in July and August, though, so plan on sharing those pretty beaches with plenty of other sunseekers. Lisbon and Porto also swell with crowds, and prices soar in July and August. Book outdoor dining at terrace restaurants overlooking the seaside, catch open-air concerts and film screenings and browse for treasures at street markets. August is Portugal’s busiest tourist month, and reserving months ahead is essential.

Expect higher prices wherever you go, as accommodation prices typically increase by 30% or more during the summer high season. On the plus side, summer is one of the most festive times to be in Portugal, with big national celebrations and lots of local outdoor events.

A surfer stands on a beach in morning lights.

Low-season months of November to March are a cheaper time to visit

If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy rock-bottom prices on accommodations, plan your trip for the low season. Many museums and other attractions keep shorter hours, though you’ll still find a full lineup of performances in cities and bigger towns.

If you come in the winter, you’ll need to prepare for changing weather conditions – rain in Porto and the north, and freezing temperatures at higher elevations. The south, however, has ample sunshine, so it’s a fine time for clifftop walks in the Algarve.

Visit in November and stay along the coast, and you’ll have lovely seaside views all to yourself – but you'll need to pack a light jacket for cooler days and nights, plus the odd rain shower. In the north, it's getting even colder and wetter.

Long nights and cooler days can’t dampen the Christmas spirit in December, with holiday markets, roasted chestnuts and colorfully decorated squares. Days are mostly pleasant in the south but brisk at night, while the north sees cold, rainy days and nights. The sea is quite cold, too, but the biggest waves arrive this month, making it a big draw for surfers.

A large city square by a river in winter, with some people moving around

January is a peaceful time to visit, though the weather can be patchy and cool. Dia de Reis (Three Kings' Day) brings the Christmas festivities to a close on January 6.

February is one of the quietest times for overseas visitors, meaning you won’t have to book lodging months in advance. It can be quite rainy in the north, and you can even go skiing at Torres (Portugal’s sole ski resort). Coastal temperatures are cool but mild.

March days are rainy and chilly in the interior and the north of Portugal, though the south sees ample sunshine. Prices and visitor numbers remain low.

Go in April, May, September and October for outdoor adventures

During the shoulder season, you’ll find mild, often sunny days that are ideal for hikes, bike rides and other outdoor activities. This is a great time to check out Portugal’s top natural wonders without the heavy crowds.

Spring arrives with a flourish, bringing warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine in both the north and the south, as well as some major religious holidays, like Holy Week. April sees a profusion of wildflowers in the south, and Easter processions add excitement, as does Liberation Day (April 25), when you can see parades and fireworks in some towns.

Lovely sunny weather makes May an ideal time to visit, especially if you’re hitting a long-distance trail, such as the Via Algarviana or the Rota Vicentina. The crowds are beginning to arrive in Lisbon , Porto and the Algarve, though it’s still a fairly relaxed scene compared to the summertime high season.

The fall can be a magical time to visit Portugal, with changing leaves in the north coupled with grape harvests (and harvest festivals). As in spring, the beaches are much quieter and quite inviting, though ocean temperatures can be bracing. Ongoing warm weather ensures beaches remain packed until mid-September, when peak tourist season officially ends. Then things cool down a bit and prices dip, as the crowds dissipate toward the end of the month.

As the temperatures cool, head to the vineyards of the Douro , where you can see grape harvesting and treading, and even help out. October is also a great month for bird-watching, with many species passing through en route to Africa during the annual fall migration.

This article was first published Feb 23, 2021 and updated Dec 18, 2023.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Portugal, From Douro Valley Vineyards to the Islets of the Azores

By Anna Prendergast

A friend once cycled through Portugal , and on his return explained the allure of taking the long way round: “There are long stretches of nothing—but then you get to where you’re going, and it’s worth every mile of wondering if you’re completely lost,” they said. From Sagres’s secret surf scene in the south to Alentejo’s underrated wine country, there’s more to Portugal than Lisbon (although, what a capital it is). With its Atlantic coast and Mediterranean climate, the country is scrappier than Spain and wilder than France —its charm is in its reluctance to be too polished, and Portugal’s prettiest places are raw, real, and natural. After all, once something is too shiny, it simply presents a reflection of the familiar rather than its beautiful, authentic self. Here are the 15 most beautiful places in Portugal that are worth every mile in between.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The most beautiful places in Portugal

Arguably one of the country's finest stretches of Atlantic coast Comportas sandy beach goes on for almost 40 miles...

Comporta's Coast

Arguably one of the country's finest stretches of Atlantic coast, Comporta’s sandy beach goes on (and on, and on…) for almost 40 miles, which means there’s space to spare, even when Lisbonites head here for long weekends and wellness retreats . Its shallower, family-friendly waters are in the northern Tróia peninsula and there’s surfing towards the southern end at Praia do Carvalhal. Try horseback riding along the shoreline with Cavalos na Areia , one of the smartest stables in the area, then position yourself outside Sal restaurant for service at your daybed, and easy access to one of the best places to eat on the beach.

If you like the idea of Benagil for its geology but your itinerary is taking you to the north head to medieval Monsanto...

Monsanto, Castelo Branco

If you like the idea of Benagil for its geology (and not just its photo ops), but your itinerary is taking you to the north, head to medieval Monsanto instead, where the village is built into giant stone boulders that look like they might roll down the narrow streets clinging to the mountaintop any second. Because of its elevation and terracotta rooftops, this also happens to be a stunning spot for sunsets— Taverna Lusitana has the best tables.

With its heatwaves, vineyards, Roman architecture, and cobbled squares, the Alentejo’s hottest city attracts travelers seeking culture, food, and climate all in one place. Check into the recently opened Evora Farm Hotel for a mash-up of country design (raw wood, glossy granite, leather chesterfields) and Mediterranean touches—wicker lamps, azulejo ceramics.

Novelist Jos Saramago called this northern region the eighth wonder of the world and theres something undeniably...

Douro Valley Vineyards

Novelist José Saramago called this northern region the eighth wonder of the world , and there’s something undeniably hypnotic about the visual ASMR of Porto ’s terraced topography. The wine region’s winding waterway slices through the green landscape, which you can take in from a gentle river cruise or from the window of Six Senses’ first European resort or the Vintage House Hotel in Pinhão.

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Arouca Geopark

In May 2021, Arouca Geopark unveiled the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, which hangs 574 feet above Paiva River and offers sensational views of the conservation space, Aguieiras Waterfall and Paiva Gorge—if you can muster the courage to cross it, that is. After the adrenaline wears off, head to the Pedras Parideiras, a geological phenomenon whose name loosely translates to ‘breeding stones’—small rocks that emerge from large ones. It’s the result of changing temperatures and erosion, but folklore suggests that the site has the power to get women pregnant.

Some say King Ferdinand II designed the palaces in Sintra to rival Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria; others say it was a romantic gesture for his lover, Elise Hensler. The Parque da Pena that surround the castle is filled with rare species of roses and non-native plants—folklore says he would instruct sailors and servants to bring back seeds and flowers to plant just for her. The colorful turrets, curved cupola, and chemin de ronde walkways seem to be wrapped in fondant icing in shades of ochre and red, and there are gargoyles, traditional azulejos, and acres of history to explore.

Benagile Caves, Algarve

Park near Praia do Carvalho—instead of Benagil beach, which can get overcrowded—and rent a stand-up paddleboard to access the weather-worn limestone-layered Benagil Sea Cave (currents are strong, so swimming from beach to beach isn’t recommended). Pools of sunshine stream through the natural skylight, but the shade cast by the rock formation provides relief from Portugal’s intense heat, which can creep over 100 degrees in peak summer season.

Praia De Odeceixe, Costa Vincentina

Straddling the region between the Algarve and Alentejo, this cliffside, thumbprint-shaped beach—which is also the mouth of the River Seixe—is one of the south’s best-kept secrets. It is part of a National Park , so its unspoilt quality makes it a spectacular place to finish a hike along the Rota Vicentina trails and celebrate with a cold beer at Bar da Praia . At low tide, there are rock pools for playing and shallows for paddling, and while the water on the riverside is calm and gentle, there are decent surfable waves on the oceanside too.

Alentejo's Sunflower Fields

In summer, six-foot-tall sunflowers bloom in the hundreds in Alentejo, a lesser-known region whose natural beauty is starting to draw tourists and hotel owners alike. Drive south from Cuba towards Aljustrel and keep your eyes peeled for jars of raw girassol honey made by local beekeepers, plus stop and inhale the fragrant fields of lavender, cork oak, olives, and wheat (but do be mindful these are farmers' crops, not just photo backdrops).

The Islets of the Azores

Less than a mile off São Miguel is the islet of Vila Franca do Campo, a volcanic crater surrounded by underwater caves and the Atlantic’s (often icy) waters, and connected by a small channel called a boquete . The only inhabitants of the nature reserve are sea birds like little egrets and Bulwer’s petrels, so fishing and camping are not allowed (and there are no facilities), but the clear lagoon is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving—pack a wetsuit, plenty of water, and a few pastéis de nata for when you emerge salty lipped and sun-kissed.

About an hour outside of Lisbon, Obidos is a walled hilltop town with narrow cobble-stone streets and whitewashed houses. Stay at eco-design hotel Rio do Prado , which in May 2021 started welcoming diners to its brand new restaurant The Market Man, a greenhouse that grows more than 2,000 plants to be used in its rural recipes. Head to Bar Ibn Errik Rex to try ginjinha, a local liqueur made from Morello cherries, and take a wander round the city walls (not necessarily in that order—the walls reach up to 43 feet and some don’t have handrails).

The city’s traditional boats and criss-crossing canals often draw comparisons to Venice , but you won’t get the hordes of visitors or sinking-city melancholy here. Instead, the moliceiro vessels’ painted prows, the town’s Art Nouveau façades, and Costa Nova’s brightly striped beach huts are colorful reminders of the area’s history. Eschew the obligatory Portuguese custard tarts for local ovos moles de Aveiro, which are shaped like shells and have protected status (much like Champagne, they can only be named as such if they come from this region).

Serra Da Estrela Natural Park

Paragliding, trekking, and mountain biking are popular in Portugal, but not many know you can ski here too—Serra da Estrela’s National Park includes a small resort just a few hours from Lisbon. February is the best time for snow cover, but the mountainous terrain also offers landscapes blanketed in wildflowers and glassy lakes year-round, including Covão dos Conchos, which has an artificial spillway that looks (and acts) like a sinkhole. Make sure to include a cheese tasting in your itinerary and pick up some chestnut liqueur from the historical hilltop village of Piódão.

Ilha Deserta

Brush up on your tide tables and escape the Algarve’s tourists by taking a boat from Faro to Ilha Deserta, which on a quiet day feels like your very own private island—or oversized sand dune. The seafood restaurant Estaminé , the only structure on the island, burnt down in a freak fire in 2021, but its back now so guests can dig their fingers into bowls of boat-fresh prawns before spending an afternoon in the clear, warm water, spotting purple swamphen or collecting seashells.

Berlengas Islands

A few miles off Peniche’s rocky peninsula is a UNESCO-protected nature reserve in the form of the Berlengas Islands archipelago, where conditions are ideal for scuba diving—good visibility, calm waters, and plenty of wildlife. On board your boat, spot dolphins from the deck, and underwater come face to fin with elusive John Dory fish, octopus, manta ray, nudibranch, and giant sunfish among shipwrecks and caves on a fertile volcanic seabed.

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The Algarve in April and what it's like

Considering a trip to the Algarve in April? Determining whether this month suits your travel plans hinges on your desired experience. Personally, I adore the Algarve in April, and there are several reasons why this period stands out as the ideal time to explore the region. Let's dive into why April makes for an unforgettable visit.

What's in this article?

The weather

Things to do in April

Where to stay

The weather in April

While you might assume that April in the Algarve mirrors March , you'd be pleasantly surprised. In fact, April often boasts significantly warmer temperatures. With an average of around 19 degrees Celsius, daytime temperatures can easily soar into the mid-twenties or even exceed 25 degrees Celsius. Although mornings and evenings can be slightly chilly, the midday and afternoon hours beckon beach enthusiasts with inviting warmth. Packing for varied temperatures is essential; ensure you bring along a jumper, a light jacket, and, of course, beachwear!

Moreover, April in the Algarve showcases vibrant greenery and is in my opinion the most beautiful month . Nature bursts into life during this month, offering an exquisite display of springtime beauty.

Things to do in the Algarve in April

If you're a fan of swimming, brace yourself for a refreshing experience as the ocean remains delightfully chilly, with an average water temperature around 17.3 degrees Celsius. 😉 It's the perfect excuse for a revitalizing dip, so don't forget to pack your bikini for those relaxing beach moments and pool hangs.

April sets the stage for a range of outdoor activities, from invigorating hikes to exhilarating climbing adventures, even under the midday sun. And fear not, it's not too cold for water sports enthusiasts either. Whether it's stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing, there's no shortage of exciting options to explore in the Algarve!

Book a surf lesson on the stunning west coast (from Lagos) - click here!

Book a surf lesson on the south coast (Albufeira) - click here!

Check out my fave hikes in the Algarve - click here!

Go coasteering! - click here!

Check out my fave beaches - click here!

Go horse back riding - click here!

See beautiful Algarve wine estates - click here!

Check out the stunning Algarve coast by boat - Click here!

To get around and discover the Algarve to the fullest, I highly recommend renting a car. Trough discover cars renting a car and comparing prices is super easy! Check out my personal favorite car rentals .

Wondering where to stay on your April trip? You're in the right place at To the Sea Stories. I've actually written several blogs that are very useful if you're looking into the most beautiful part of the Algarve , beachfront hotels and beach towns ! I've also written lists with my favorite luxury boutique hotels, beautiful hotels in nature and places to stay on the beach ! Check it out. 👇

If you love going out and trying bars and restaurants, I would recommend staying in one the following towns:

Praia da Luz

Summarizing

With an average temperature of around 19 degrees Celsius, though feeling much warmer during daylight hours, expect temperatures to easily reach the mid-twenties.

Pack a variety of clothing suitable for fluctuating weather conditions, including a jumper for cooler moments and beachwear for sun-soaked days.

April in the Algarve is perfect for outdoor pursuits such as surfing and hiking, thanks to the inviting weather.

While the ocean water remains quite cold for swimming, it's ideal for refreshing dips.

Enjoy the serenity of the Algarve in April, as it's typically less crowded.

Marvel at the stunning beauty of nature, which flourishes during this time of year.

when to travel

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Wander-Lush

28 Unforgettable Things to Do in Portugal: The Ultimate List

Portugal is easily one of the most rewarding travel destinations in Europe, with cosmopolitan cities, quaint villages, wine country, pristine forests – and not to forget, 1,800 kilometres (1,100 miles) of picturesque coastline ranging from dramatic cliffs, coves and caves to placid, sandy beaches.

Add to that more than 800 years of history, a fabulous food scene, music traditions and much more, and mainland Portugal plus the diverse islands of Madeira and the Azores have something to offer literally every type of traveller.

This mega Portugal Bucket List brings together 28 of the best things to do in Portugal, including must-sees, immersive cultural experiences , hands-on activities, and quirky and alternative Portugal attractions.

→ Don’t miss: The best places to visit in Portugal

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

28 of the best things to do in Portugal

Ride the #28 tram in lisbon.

A yellow tram on the street in Lisbon, Portugal.

There’s no better introduction to Lisbon , the capital city of Portugal, than a self-guided tour by tram. A Lisbon icon, electric trams first launched in 1901 and have been ferrying locals and visitors alike up and down the city’s hills ever since.

Tram 28 is the best route for sightseeing and views. Think of it as Lisbon’s more authentic answer to a hop-on-hop-off tour bus! Running between Martim Moniz and Campo Ourique, it takes passengers along some of the city’s most beautiful streets, past key landmarks including Lisbon Cathedral, the Thieves Market, São Jorge Castle, National Pantheon, Miradouro da Graça, Arco da Rua Augusta, and more.

At just €3 per trip (paid either in cash to the driver or using a rechargeable Viva Viagem card), it’s also a very affordable way to see the best of Lisbon. Climb aboard a vintage Remodelado carriage, stake out a spot on one of the wooden benches, and sit back and absorb the sights and sounds of Lisboa.

The tram runs seven days from 6am. It’s a good idea to arrive early to beat the crowds. Riding the whole line takes around 50 minutes one-way depending on traffic. For a less-touristy alternative, the #12E tram follows a similar route through the historic Alfama neighbourhood , stopping at São Jorge Castle and Se Cathedral.

Alternative Lisbon experience: Follow the 28 tram route in a private electric tuk-tuk and snap photos of the charming yellow trams along the way!

Learn how to make Pastel de Nata in Belem

A single pastel de nata Portuguese egg tart on a white plate.

When visiting Portugal, it’s mandatory to munch on as many rich and flaky Pastel de Nata (Portuguese egg tarts) as humanly possible. This delicious pastry was born in the shadow of the iconic Belem Tower (Torre De Belem) in the 18th-century kitchens of Jerónimos Monastery, making Lisbon the spiritual home of Pastéis.

While you should definitely buy a pack or two of authentic Belem custard tarts to take home as a souvenir , why not go one better and learn how to make them from scratch yourself. It’s a life skill that will serve you well!

A Pastel de Nata Masterclass is a must-do for foodies and a great experience for kids. The original recipe is a closely guarded secret, but padeiras are more than willing to spill the beans for eager visitors who want to master the art. The best workshops take place in local bakeries and teach you how to make the creamy custard from scratch.

Try it: Book a Pastel de Nata Workshop with an expert baker , including a glass of Ginjinha sour cherry liqueur in an edible chocolate cup to pair with your fresh-baked tarts.

Cruise the Douro River in Porto

A fleet of rabelo boats on the river in Porto, with a beautiful bridge in the background.

Life in Portugal’s second city revolves around the Douro River, giving Porto some of its most famous landmarks including its handsome bridges and medieval Ribeira (riverside) district, with its colourful merchant houses and historic cafes .

Do as Porto’s wine merchants once did and let the trade winds whisk you through the city. A boat trip on the Douro is the perfect way to tour the top sights and learn what makes Porto one of the country’s most interesting cities .

In the past, rabelo – low-slung wooden cargo boats – were used to transport barrels of Port wine from the vineyards in the country’s interior to the city and onward to the shipping docks. A fleet of colourful rabelo now float the same historic route, taking visitors down Porto’s life-giving river and showing off the best of the city from a unique perspective.

A typical boat tour of Porto covers the famous ‘Six Bridges’ including Ponte D. Maria Pia, Ponte Infante Dom Henrique and Ponte de Dom Luís I, the Gaia caves, and the Cabedelo Nature Reserve. You’ll see the Foz do Douro, where the river empties out into the Atlantic Ocean, and the Barra do Douro with its dazzling lighthouse.

Take a day trip to the splendid Pena Palace

Pena Palace, a colourful Portuguese palace near Lisbon.

Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Portugal and a highlight of Sintra, a convenient day trip from Lisbon. Considered one of the finest expressions of 19th-century Romanticism in Europe, it’s both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

Set atop a hill and enveloped by green forest (200 hectares of which is the royal garden), Pena Palace is instantly identifiable because of its bright red, yellow and mauve facades, scalloped white trimmings and pointed turrets. It might look cartoonish in photos but seen up close in person, it’s very lavish indeed – especially the painted interiors, which were used as a summer royal residence for Portugal’s ruling family.

A Sintra day trip is very easy to organise, travelling by train on the CP-Sintra line from Lisbon. Pena Palace is a 30-minute bus ride from the railway station.

Alternatively, a combination Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais day tour from Lisbon is a good choice if you’re on a tight timeline. Other noteworthy landmarks in the area include the National Palace on Sintra’s central square, Monserrate Palace and the Moorish Castle, later on this list of things to do in Portugal.

Pena Palace tickets: Pre-purchase your tickets online and skip the queue.

Listen to Fado music in Chiado, one of the best things to do in Portugal for local culture

Recognised as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Fado is a beloved Portuguese tradition that incorporates music, lyrics and movement. For an insight into the nation’s seafaring heritage, watch a live Fado performance in Chiado in Lisbon where Fado has been humming in the streets for more than 200 years.

Though its exact origins are a bit of a mystery, it’s widely believed that Fado emerged in the mid-1800s at a time when Portuguese mariners were undertaking their most daring sea voyages to the New World. Singing and dancing became something of a ritual for sailors as they searched for a reprieve from their stressful day jobs.

Somewhat ironically, much of Lisbon’s Fado music is soulful and almost mournful. Coimbra Fado, by contrast, is more upbeat – apparently it was devised as a way for male students at the university to woo their female counterparts!

Fado is most commonly associated with Lisbon’s old Alfama and Mouraria districts. In the beginning the singers were all male, but today it’s women who take the lead, reciting stirring melodies that transport listeners to another time and place, accompanied by 12-string guitars and violas. Bars and restaurants in Alfama and Bairro Alto host Fado performers, and the popular Fado in Chiado theatre stages shows every night of the week.

Experience Fado: Folk music performances in Lisbon .

Tour one of the world’s oldest universities in Coimbra

A lavish library inside the historic Coimbra University in Portugal.

Have you ever been to a university that is a combination of a palace, a church and has strong vibes of Harry Potter ’s Hogwarts? If you haven’t, it’s time to add Coimbra University to the long list of things you must do in Portugal.

Coimbra is the biggest city in Central Portugal. You can easily reach it by train from Lisbon in about two hours or Porto in about one hour, or stop here on your road trip from Lisbon to Porto . There are many historical monuments in Coimbra but the university campus, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, is the most famous.

With a history dating back to the 13th century, this stunning university is actually the oldest of its kind in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe . It is located in what used to be a royal palace and has many interesting treasures to explore as well as commanding fabulous views of Coimbra and the Mondego River.

Some of the most interesting places on the university campus are the Capela de São Miguel, with its beautifully decorated ceiling and walls, the chambers of the palace, and the rooftop balcony that offers excellent views of the area. One place you must visit is the Biblioteca Joanina. Walking into this ancient library feels like stepping into a movie set: all golden decorations, a piano, and a resident colony of bats!

You can visit Coimbra University by yourself if you wish, but it’s best to take a tour to learn about the history and secrets that hide in the various chambers. The university organises guided tours. Note that if you buy your own tickets, there are two types – make sure you buy the one that includes a visit to the library.

By Maya from Chasing Lenscapes

Pre-purchase your Coimbra University tickets: These skip-the-line tickets include an in-depth 90-minute tour of the main halls and the Biblioteca Joanina.

Take a stroll in the enchanting Bucaco National Forest

Walking paths and overgrown trees in the Bucaco National Forest near Coimbra.

Located roughly 30 kilometres (19 miles) north of the historic city of Coimbra, the Buçaco National Forest is a true gem in Portugal. This 105-hectare green space houses one of the most remarkable tree collections in Europe, including species dating back to the Portuguese Age of Discoveries (around 500 years ago).

In the 17th century, the forest was settled by the Order of Discalced Carmelites – though it was previously inhabited for centuries before that. The monks built its walls, little chapels that are still standing today, and a convent that was supposed to be converted into a royal palace but is now a unique luxury hotel, the Buçaco Palace.

The best way to explore the forest is by foot, walking at least one of the many trails that take you through this enchanted place. Be sure to grab a map at the information centre (Posto de Turismo do Luso-Bussaco) as it will be very useful. Some of the points of interest you can’t miss while wandering through Buçaco are the Buçaco Palace, Fonte Fria fountain, and Portas de Coimbra (Coimbra Gate).

The most convenient way to get to the forest is by car, so this is a great opportunity to take a scenic road trip through central Portugal .

By Or from My Path in the World

Drink Port wine in the Douro Valley

Vineyards reach down to the Douro River in central Portugal.

If you’re in Portugal and you haven’t tried Port wine, have you even been to Portugal at all?! A tasting of the nation’s most famous export is an absolute must, and the best place to do it is the Douro Valley outside Porto, one of Europe’s most famous wine regions .

There are many advantages to doing a wine tasting in the Douro Valley rather than in Porto city. In Porto, you will only find overpriced touristy Port tastings; whereas in the Douro Valley, you will be able to visit centuries-old wine estates ( quintas ) in person. The acres and acres of vineyards here are incredibly picturesque and give visitors the chance to really immerse themselves in Portugal’s winemaking traditions.

The best way to visit the Douro Valley is through an organised tour from Porto. This one by Living Tours includes two different quintas, a boat tour on the Douro river, and a generous lunch. It’s also possible to rent a car and visit multiple quintas on your own. But that would mean you can’t drink port – so a tour is definitely the preferred option here!

By Lara from The Best Travel Gifts

Best Douro Valley tour from Porto: This itinerary by Living Tours includes tastings with the winemakers, a regional lunch, and spectacular views of the terraced vineyards.

Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve, a walking route past cliffs and white sand beaches in Portugal.

There are few better ways to appreciate the beauty of the Algarve coastline than by foot. And thankfully, there are several stunning walkways you can take to explore one of Portugal’s premier beach holiday destinations from a different perspective.

One of the most popular walks along this stretch of sun-kissed shoreline is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail . At just under 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) out and back, it’s an easy half-day hike, or you can do it over a full day and enjoy the many beaches you’ll pass along the way.

Beaches aside, there’s plenty to see along the path such as natural grottos (including the famous Benagil sea cave), rock arches and bridges, sea pillars, and a lighthouse.

The family-friendly hike is described as moderate, and can be hard going in the heat of the summer months, so do yourself a favour by hiking in autumn instead. At this time of the year, you’ll enjoy sublime temperatures, fewer crowds, and won’t have to jostle for a parking spot.

You can complete the track in either direction, starting at Praia Vale de Centeanes or Praia da Marinha. If you don’t fancy retracing your steps it’s possible to just do it one way and catch a cab or Uber back to your car.

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Kayak through the Benagil sea cave

Kayaks on the shore beneath the Benagil sea cave in southern Portugal.

Out of all grottos that dot the southern Portuguese coast, the Benagil cave is the most captivating. That’s because, in addition to the lateral erosion caused by the pounding waves, the rain has worn away the top of the cave. The result is a natural skylight that illuminates the cavern and the beautiful patch of white sand that lies inside.

The fenced area around this ‘eye’ allows visitors to peer inside from the top of the cave. But to truly experience the magic of the Benagil grotto, you need to access it from the water.

Instead of hopping on one of the small tourist boats that pass through the cave, you could join a Benagil cave tour by kayak or SUP. Most of these tours are organised in the morning, allowing you some time to enjoy this mesmerising cave without the constant boat traffic. The beauty of arriving by kayak or SUP is that you’re allowed to actually set foot on the gorgeous beach – a privilege that boat visitors don’t have.

A kayak or SUP tour typically lasts around two hours and takes you to see several intriguing sea caves along the coastline. It can be quite intensive, depending on the water conditions, but a support boat with a lifeguard tags along and can tow your kayak if necessary.

By Sarah from CosmopoliClan

Try it: Book your Benagil cave kayaking experience with Secret Algarve.

Swim in a natural hot spring in the Azores

People swim in a natural geothermal pool in the Azores.

One of the most exciting things to do in Portugal is experience the hot springs on the Azorean island of São Miguel. The largest of the Azores – a chain of islands in the Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous region of Portugal – São Miguel has a wide selection of hot springs to enjoy.

There are several different geothermal springs on the island, each with its own unique feel. Terra Nostra is probably the most famous, known for its large spring-fed pool that is so rich with iron and other minerals that the water is almost golden in colour. Terra Nostra also has smaller springs as well as a botanic garden and a restaurant where you can eat cozido , an Azorean stew cooked underground using geothermal heat (look out for it later on this list).

Another cool spot is in Ponta da Ferraria, where a hot spring meets the ocean just where some rocks make a natural pool. You’ll have to time the tides just right – otherwise it can be too hot or too cold – but it’s a magical experience feeling the water’s temperature ebb and flow as the hot spring water mixes with the brisk Atlantic waters. Best of all, it’s free!

Should you want even more soaking time on your Sao Miguel itinerary , there are several other hot springs in the Azores also worth mentioning, including Poça da Dona Beija and Caldeira Velha.

Tip: Bring a dark-coloured bathing suit to enjoy the hot springs in the Azores – lighter suits may get stained by the mineral waters.

By Allison from Eternal Arrival

Experience it: Evening tour to Furnas for hot spring bathing at Poça da Dona Beija as the sun sets plus a traditional dinner under the stars.

Go hiking at sunrise on Madeira Island

A man looking out over the Pico Ruivo do Paul viewpoint on Madeira island in Portugal.

Portugal’s second autonomous island region, Madeira, comprises four islands, each with a subtropical climate and breathtaking landscapes of volcanic rock formations, dramatic cliffs and pebble beaches. It’s no secret that Madeira boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe , many leading to high-altitude viewpoints for panoramic views of the cliffs and ocean.

From moderate and flat levada walks that take you through the island’s forested interior (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to more challenging mountain summits that see you rise up above the clouds, Madeira is a hiker’s paradise.

The Pico Ruivo do Paul trail is an easy hike of 1.5 kilometres (just under 1 mile), taking around 45 minutes to complete. It culminates at a 1600-metre-high marked viewpoint where you are rewarded with spectacular views down to the water’s edge.

One of the most adventurous things to do in Portugal is to set out for sunrise on another popular but longer trail that links the island’s two highest points, Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo. This Madeira hike is more strenuous, taking around 7-9 hours to complete the 15.6 kilometres (9.7 miles).

Ride a moliceiro boat in the quaint town of Aveiro

Molicero boats on the waterfront in the town of Aveiro, Portugal.

One of the best day trips from Porto is to Aveiro, a charming town known for the gondola-style boats that roam the canals. With a long history, it’s a cultural wonderland with plenty of sights and culinary experiences thrown in for good measure.

Just an hour from Porto by train, Aveiro is easy to reach and explore on foot. The main activity is riding one of the colourful molicero boats. These were originally used to farm seaweed and keep the region fertile, although they’re now more of a popular tourist attraction. A short ride will set you back €5-10.

Another place to visit is the nearby Costa Nova, a small beach town with Instagrammable huts painted in every colour of the rainbow. It’s easy to reach Costa Nova from Aveiro by hopping on a bus or hailing a taxi.

Finally, don’t miss indulging in Aveiro’s culinary gems. Ovos moles are traditional snacks from Aveiro made with sweetened egg yolk in wafer. Many cafes sell them, but there’s nowhere better than Confeitaria Peixinho where they have been made since 1856. Try the ones shaped like mini molicero boats!

By Rose from Where Goes Rose

Try it: Aveiro moliceiro experience with a visit to the Aveiro salt pan, the old Beira-Mar, neighbourhood, the Jerónimo Campos ceramics factory, and the Fish Market.

Go azulejo hunting in Porto

Painted Portuguese azulejo tiles at Sao Bento Station in Porto.

Discovering the gorgeous azulejo tiles is one of the best things to do in Porto , Portugal. The word ‘azulejo’ stems from the Arabic al zellige , which means ‘polished stone’. You will find these glazed ceramic tiles almost everywhere in Porto – from churches to railway stations, fountains to benches. Azulejo is a very important part of Portugal’s cultural heritage.

King Manuel I of Portugal brought this art form to this country in the 15th century from Seville, Spain . Initially tiles used simple geometrical patterns, but over time the repertoire transformed into a more intricate and decorative art form depicting religious stories and the history of the nation. You will mainly find these tiles in blue and white. Shades of yellow and green are also common.

You can easily explore Porto’s azulejos yourself. You will find some of the greatest works inside the Sao Bento Railway Station , where almost 20,000 azulejo tiles painted in the early 20th century by Jorge Colaco depict the history of Portugal and rural scenes. The work took almost 11 years to complete!

Other outstanding azulejos can be found at the Porto Cathedral, Igreja do Carmo, Capela das Almas, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and the Casa da Musica.

By Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road

Alternative experience: Try a tile-painting workshop where you’ll learn about the history of azulejos while hand-painting your own souvenir tiles.

Browse the beautiful Livraria Lello bookshop in Porto

The red staircase inside the gorgeous Livraria Lello bookshop in Porto, Portugal.

Located in the heart of Porto, the Livraria Lello is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. J.K. Rowling, author of the famous Harry Potter series, was famously inspired by it when writing her novels – she regularly visited the bookstore in the 1990s.

Founded in 1906 by the Lello brothers, the Livraria Lello, which is today one of the most famous Portuguese landmarks , attracts plenty of tourists thanks to its amazing design. Even before entering the bookstore, the white facade that combines Art Nouveau and neo-Gothic styles is quite stunning.

The exterior is certainly eye-catching, but it’s the store’s stunning interior to which the Livraria Lello owes its fame: the walls, lined with large bookcases from floor to ceiling, abound with volumes in all languages. The high point is definitely the iconic red spiral staircase.

This bookstore is so popular that an entrance fee is now charged (it costs €5, but the ticket price is deductible if you buy something inside). In any case, it’s a good idea to purchase your tickets in advance – otherwise you’ll have to queue twice: first at the ticket counter and then again to enter the bookstore. Try to visit in the morning to avoid the crowds on the staircase.

By Nesrine from Kevmrc Travel

Explore Tomar, Batalha and Alcobaca, the trio of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Central Portugal

Columns and arches at Alcobaca Monastery, one of Central Portugal's three UNESCO sites.

One of the best things to do in Portugal is visit the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There is a trio of monuments located in Central Portugal that can be visited in one day as they are all located within an hour of one another.

The three UNESCO World Heritage Sites are the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Alcobaça Monastery, and the Monastery of Batalha. The first, the Convent of Christ in Tomar was originally a 12th-century Knights Templar stronghold until its dissolution in the 14th century. The Knights of the Order of Christ, as the Templars became in the 15th-century, continued at Tomar and aided Portugal in its maritime explorations during the Age of Discoveries. The site consists of both a convent and a castle built in the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles.

The Monastery of Batalha is a Dominican monastery originating in the late 14th century. It contains examples of Gothic and Manueline architecture styles. Alcobaça Monastery is a 12th-century monastic site credited with introducing Gothic buildings to Portugal.

All three sites are rich in architecture and history. All can be visited as part of a day trip tour from Lisbon if you are travelling in Portugal without a car. There is a discounted ticket for entry to all three sites which is valid for one year.

By Cath from Passports and Adventures

Day tour option: Book a private day trip from Lisbon with transfers and skip-the-line access to the monasteries.

Walk the medieval walls of the Moorish Castle in Sintra

Old walls of the Moorish Castle in Sintra, with Pena Palace in the distance.

Castelo dos Mouros (the Moorish Castle) is located in Sintra. Like the Pena Palace, it sits high on a craggy outcrop and can be seen for miles around. It’s less touristy than Pena and a more relaxing experience. Its rich history and spectacular views earn the Moorish Castle a spot on the best Sintra tours from Lisbon .

The Moors reigned from the 8th to the 12th centuries in Portugal and during this time, the strategic location of this very large castle (directly above the town) meant that it was the defensive centre for the whole Sintra region. This was also true during the later Christian rule of Sintra.

Make sure you stroll around the formidable castle walls and see the 12th century Igreja de São Pedro Chapel. From atop the walls there are incredible views of the Sintra mountain range.

This castle is also an unforgettable sight when you see it from a distance. The Royal Tower of Sinta (Torre Real) is the best place to view the castle from afar. Walking from the Pena Palace to the Moorish Castle is a wonderful experience, but there is also a regular bus service.

By Paula from Portugal Travel Hub

Explore the old town in Obidos

White-washed houses with colourful trims in the Portugal village of Obidos.

Only an hour’s drive away from bustling Lisbon (making it a great spot on a Portugal road trip ), the sweet, fairytale village of Obidos is a must-see in Portugal. The town is still surrounded by fortified walls and was actually gifted from King Denis of Portugal to his Queen for their wedding in 1282.

Medieval cobbled streets lined with small shops and whitewashed houses are a perfect backdrop for photos. A must-do in Obidos is to try the famous sour cherry liquor, Ginjinha de Óbidos , which originated with 17th-century monks from the region who combined brandy with Morello cherries. It’s traditionally served in little edible chocolate pots to taste for only €1 – and it’s simply delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to purchase a bottle to take home with you.

After you’ve wandered the beautiful streets, don’t forget to check out the well-preserved Obidos Castle. It’s a great place to walk around and you can even stay the night if you feel like treating yourself!

By Cazzy from Dream Big Travel Far

Explore Obidos: History tour of the village and Jewish neighbourhood with a Ginjinha tasting .

Go beach-hopping in Lagos

An old Roman bridge and rock formations at Praia dos Estudantes beach in Portugal.

Portugal’s southernmost region of Algarve is known for its golden sandy beaches, secluded swimming coves, rugged cliffs and sculptural sea caves. If you’ve come to Portugal in search of surfing, swimming or sunbathing, a tour of Lagos’s stunning beaches is something not to be missed.

The coastal city of Lagos is the ideal spot for a balance of city and surf. From lounging to exciting water sports, there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Beach-hopping is indisputably the thing to do in this part of Portugal. Highlights include Praia dos Estudantes (‘Students’ Beach’), one of the most striking beaches thanks to the Roman-style bridge – once part of a now-fallen fortress – that stretches out between two rock formations over the ocean. The quiet cove here is ideal for frolicking in peaceful tides.

Meia Praia beach is an enormous stretch of sand just outside Lagos. Spanning a monumental 4 kilometres (2.5 miles), it’s never too difficult to find space to stretch out your towel here.

Visit the anchor cemetery on Tavira Island

Rusty anchors lying on the beach on Tavira Island, one of the most offbeat things to do in Portugal.

One of the quirkiest attractions in Portugal is the anchor cemetery on Tavira Island. On the sand dunes cascading into Barril beach , there are more than 200 large, rusty anchors. They were once used in tuna fishing when the island was a base for fishermen during the season. When the tuna population declined, the fishermen abandoned their anchors on the beach.

To this day, nobody really knows who collected them all and lined them up – but the truth is, whoever it was did the area a huge favour! Now, instead of being an abandoned location with old tumbledown fishing shacks, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tavira.

The fishing shacks have been transformed into busy restaurants and cafes, and the old train line that transported the tuna is now being used to ferry tourists on a small scenic train. It costs €1.50 one-way and takes you from the footbridge by Pedras d’El Rei, connecting the mainland with the island, over to the anchor cemetery.

Alternatively, you can walk a 1.3-kilometre-long trail next to the train line. There are also boats and ferries taking visitors from Tavira to the island. Unless you go on a private boat tour, you will be dropped off at Tavira beach. You then have to walk along the beach for 5 kilometres (3 miles) to reach the anchors.

By Linn from Amused by Algarve

Visit the Capela dos Ossos ‘Bone Chapels’ in Evora & Faro

Interior of the Bone Chapel at Evora in Portugal.

Many visit Portugal for the beaches, the food and the epic palaces – but there is something more off-beat that draws visitors to Portugal: a visit to the famous Capela dos Ossos or ‘Bone Chapels’.

Some will consider these unique religious sanctuaries a dark tourism destination , and while they are not for everyone, they are a very interesting (if not a bit macabre) site. The two most popular bone chapels in Portugal are at Evora and Faro. Both are very different from one another and for many visitors, places they never forget.

The Evora Bone Chapel, the larger of the pair, is located near the Igreja de São Francisco Évora Chapel (St. Francis Church). Crafted from the bones of more than 5,000 individuals, the chapel measures 18 metres long and 11 metres wide. The bones are laid out expertly, with skulls positioned in the interior as rousing decorations.

The second Capela dos Ossos, the Faro Bone Chapel, is located in the town of Faro within an unsuspecting church, the Igreja Do Carmo, in a small square. The tiny bone chapel is located at the rear of the church off a beautiful garden. This bone chapel is a complete contrast to the Evora Chapel in that it’s only 5 metres long and just over 2 metres wide.

By Bec from Wyld Family Travel

Walk part of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago

Yellow shells and arrows mark out the Portuguese Camino trail.

Walking the Portuguese Camino de Santiago is an amazing cultural experience and a great way to discover the country. The Portuguese Camino is the second most popular Camino route; about 100,000 people accomplish it every year.

Starting in Lisbon and finishing in Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the total distance of the Camino from Lisbon is 630 kilometres (391 miles). It takes 30 days to complete. Many people start walking the Portuguese route from Porto, which reduces the distance to 260 kilometres (162 miles). The way is marked with yellow shells and arrows.

Spring is the best time for walking the Portuguese Camino. The weather is nice, it’s warm and sunny, there are not too many tourists, and fields and hills along the route are covered in wildflowers.

Crossing a country on foot, visiting both well-known attractions and off-the-beaten-path places, is a truly unique way of travelling. Some of the highlights of the Portuguese Camino include Lisbon, Santarem, Fatima, Tomar, Coimbra, and Porto.

The best thing about the Camino is that anybody can do it. There are no rules or limitations – you can complete the entire Camino or walk only a section, carry your own backpack or use a luggage transfer service.

By Alya from Stingy Nomads

Learn to surf in Nazare

Nazare on the Costa da Prata is a magical place, even more so if you’re a surfer searching for the best waves on earth. Pros and novices alike have wet dreams of the legendary Nazare waves. Riding in Nazare’s cold Atlantic water and frothy white surf is about as refreshing and exhilarating as it gets.

According to the Guinness Book of Records, Praia do Norte (North Beach) in Nazare is home to the world’s largest waves ever surfed. The wide beach is just the place for experienced surfers hoping to ride one of Nazare’s legendary monster waves, which often reach up to 30 metres (almost 19 miles) high.

The lighthouse on the cliff above Praia do Norte is the best vantage point to watch these giant waves and the gutsy surfers living their best lives. Inside the lighthouse is a cool surf museum with paraphernalia and quotes from famous surfers who braved the monsters and lived to tell the tale.

Nazare is a great place for beginners, too. There are several surf schools and camps in town to choose from. Instructors will ease you into things and build up your confidence on the town beach with smaller waves. When the time is right, you will join the legends of Praia do Norte.

By De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander

Go stargazing in Monsaraz

A night sky filled with stars in Alqueva, a must visit place in Portugal.

Right in the middle of the famous wine producing region of Alentejo in Portugal is an internationally certified Dark Sky Reserve, the first in the world to be recognised as a UNESCO ‘Starlight Tourism Destination’. The inky skies above Alqueva is a wonderful natural planetarium where there is almost no light pollution, making the whole area wonderful for star-gazing. It’s a must visit on any road trip of Portugal .

On the edges of the hauntingly beautiful Alqueva Dam is the walled town of Monsaraz, home to the Observatorio do Lago Alqueva. Here you can learn about the Portuguese night skies and spend a few hours with their telescopes observing the constellations and planets of the solar system and the craters of the moon.

The quality of the Alqueva sky enables naked eye observation of a large number of celestial bodies. Your tutor for the evening will bring the sky to life. You’ll find out about the history of astronomy and how the first scientists discovered the stars and planets, how they were named, and what is known about each of them.

On the right night, and with the right conditions, the velvety sky above Monsaraz may even show you the Milky Way, a hazy band of light seen in the night sky, formed by stars that cannot be individually distinguished with the naked eye. Make sure to bring your camera – you can take images through the telescope for an amazing reminder of your dark skies experience.

By Izzy & Phil from The Gap Decaders

Explore Portugal’s oldest and largest Natural Park, Serra da Estrela

A domed radar tower in Portugal's largest natural park, Serra da Estrela.

Located in the central part of Portugal, Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a mountainous area that contains the highest peak in continental Europe, known as the Torre. It has another claim to fame for being the first and the largest Natural Park in Portugal (though it doesn’t have the same status as Peneda-Geres National Park, the nation’s only Parque Nacional).

The Serra da Estrela is best visited by car or on a day trip with private transportation as access from the likes of Lisbon and Porto via public transport is not easy. There are several towns dotted around the foothills where you can stay.

Things to do in the Natural Park include taking the cable car down the valley to enjoy views across the Serra da Estrela mountains and beyond. There are also two towers with domed-shaped roofs that were former radar towers for the Portuguese Air Force. They make for great pictures. There is a retail building at the top of the mountain where you’ll find a restaurant and shops selling locally produced crafts and other products.

There are also walking opportunities, waterfalls to find, and a beautiful carving of the protector Saint of the Shepherds called Senhora da Boa Estrela etched into the rock face of the mountain.

If you are looking for unique things to do in Portugal outside of the main cities, jump in a car and head for the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. It is an area of stunning natural beauty and a place not to be missed.

By Cath from Travel Around Ireland

Day trip option: Excursion to Serra Da Estrela departing from Lisbon, Braga or Porto .

Join a Portuguese food tour in Lisbon

A plate of sadinhas assadas sardines, a must-try traditional dish in Lisbon.

Portugal has a lot going for it: an agreeable climate, historical cities, beautiful beaches, and excellent wines including the finest Port wine in the world. Another undeniable national treasure is delicious Portuguese food .

For food travellers, one of the best introductions to the cuisine of Portugal is a dedicated food tour. Most cities around the country offer this experience, but the best place for a culinary exploration has to be Lisbon, Portugal’s food capital.

A walking food tour is no doubt the best way to experience not just food, but also the culture and history of the city. A visit to some of Lisbon’s more traditional local neighbourhood restaurants, cafes, food markets and small shops will give you an insight into how locals live and what they eat.

Most food tours last for around four hours and are a short but tasty introduction to local food specialties that will leave you wanting more. While there are food tours in Lisbon that focus on popular venues and markets such as the Mercado da Ribeira , it’s nice to opt for a smaller tour to discover off-the-beaten-path eateries only the locals know about.

As for the food you’ll try: bacalhau (salted and dried cod fish and Portugal’s National dish) will most certainly be on the tasting menu. Don’t miss caldo verde , sausage and kale soup, or Pastel de Nata – all must-trys when visiting Portugal.

By Lori from Travlinmad

Recommended Libson food tour: 10 tastings of Lisbon with locals .

Eat cozido on Sao Miguel

A plate of Cozido, meat and vegetables cooked underground using geothermal heat in Portugal's Azores islands.

Furnas is located on the southeast side of Sao Miguel island in the Azores archipelago. The town, one of the most popular places to visit on Sao Miguel , sits in the remains of a long-extinct volcano and is the centre of the island’s geothermal activity. Home to hundreds of natural springs and streams, visitors have been coming here for centuries to try the mineral waters and thermal pools. They also come to eat cozido .

Cozido (also known as furnas ) is a traditional Portuguese stew made from beef, potatoes and vegetables including carrots and cabbage. Although you can find versions of cozido throughout Portugal, it’s only in Furnas that you will find Cozido nas Caldeiras . Literally translated as ‘cooked in the boiler’, this hearty meal is slow-cooked underground using volcanic heat.

At Furnas Lake there is a cozido cooking spot where local restaurants take their stews to be cooked. Each restaurant has a dedicated underground hole and the area is guarded by two men who are responsible for placing the pots in the ground and later removing them using long iron tongs.

It’s not only restaurants that can use the cooking spot, however – anyone can turn up with their pot and for a few euros have it placed underground. Most cozido are left overnight to cook but you can also take your homemade stew along in the morning and return to collect it 5-7 hours later. Bom apetite!

By Katja from Globe Totting

Go diving in the Algarve

Southern Portugal’s Atlantic coastline is just as breathtaking seen from underwater as from above. Naturally it’s home to some fantastic sites for scuba diving.

Diving conditions are great in the Algarve, with calm seas, good visibility, a rich biodiversity and a variety of interesting underwater attractions. Around the towns of Albufeira, Portimão, Lagos, Faro and Sagres there are a variety of dive sites for all skill levels. The colourful rocky reefs are covered in algae, anemones, soft corals and sponges. If you love marine animals you will not be disappointed diving here.

All dive sites are rich in fish life with sea bass, sea bream, groupers and plenty of other species on the reefs. Keep an eye out or your camera ready for interesting creatures including colourful nudibranchs, octopus, moray eels and even seahorses.

For wreck diving enthusiasts, the Algarve has plenty to offer ranging from old ships from the 1750s to a B-24 Liberator Bomber plane wreck from World War II. Several were purposely sunk to make artificial reefs. Ocean Revival Park in Portimão is a unique diving project where four Portuguese navy vessels were sunk deliberately at different depths to form a marine life sanctuary.

Most dives are done from boats, but entering from the shore at some spots, such as the beautiful Porto de Mos beach in Lagos , is also possible. The Algarve can be divided all year round, but the best conditions are in autumn and spring when the blue waters are clear and the temperatures mild.

By Campbell & Alya from The Algarve Family

What is your favourite thing to do in Portugal? Is there something else I should add to the list?

More Portugal travel inspiration

17 most beautiful places to visit in Portugal
The best cities in Portugal
First timer’s guide to Lisbon
24 hours in Porto
The best Airbnb apartments in Lisbon
The most unique places to stay in Portugal
Top Portugal souvenirs (and where to buy them)
Lagos beach guide

Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

Lisbon in april: 14 fun things to see, do & eat.

People at an outdoor cafe in Lisbon in April with a backdrop of Portuguese azulejos

What is the weather like in Lisbon in April?

Things to do in lisbon in april at a glance, table of contents.

Head to the Quiosque at Bibliotheca Palácio Galveias
Sip a Beer at Mean Sardine
Be on the Lookout for Pet Pigs (Seriously...) on a Lisbon Photowalk
Have Dinner with Friends at Frade dos Mares
Grab A Vegetarian Lunch at My Mother's Daughter
Support New Businesses
Browse Dona Ajuda in Rato
Spend the Afternoon in the Garden in Príncipe Real
Take Advantage of Kiosk Weather
Dine al Fresco on Av. Conde Valbom
Eat Lunch at the Food Court in Campo Pequeno
Eat Chicken that Packs a Punch at VIRA Frangos
Spend a Day in Parque de Nacões
Travel Beyond Lisbon

Things to do in Lisbon in April in Detail

1. head to the quiosque at bibliotheca palácio galveias.

Quiosque at Bibliotheca Palácio Galveias in Lisbon in April

2. Sip a Beer at Mean Sardine

Collage of beers and snacks at Mean Sardine in Lisbon in April

3. Be on the Lookout for Pet Pigs (Seriously...) on a Lisbon Photowalk

Man taking a pig for a walk in Lisbon in April

4. Have Dinner with Friends at Frade dos Mares

Collage of dishes and wine at Frade dos Mares in Lisbon in April

5. Grab A Vegetarian Lunch at My Mother's Daughter

Collage of dishes at My Mother's Daughter in Lisbon in April

6. Support New Businesses

7. Browse Dona Ajuda in Rato

8. Spend the Afternoon in the Garden in Príncipe Real

Street performer in the gardens of Príncipe Real in Lisbon in April

9. Take Advantage of Kiosk Weather

3 empty beer glasses on a table in the foreground with a quiosque in the background in Lisbon in April

10. Dine al Fresco on Av. Conde Valbom

Thali plate on Av. Conde Valbom in Lisbon in April

11. Eat Lunch at the Food Court in Campo Pequeno

Tacos from the food court at Campo Pequeno in Lisbon

12. Eat Chicken that Packs a Punch at VIRA Frangos

Collage of dishes from VIRA Frangos in Lisbon

13. Spend a Day in Parque de Nacões

Giant sculpture of a wildcat made from plastic trash by Bordalo II in Lisbon

14. Travel Beyond Lisbon

Should you visit Lisbon in April?

Fountain and pink building viewed at a skewed angle in Lisbon in April

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15 Things to Do in Albufeira in April

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: March 25, 2024 - Last updated: March 29, 2024

Pinterest pin showing two pictures of a beach and old town of Albufeira

It’s the perfect time of year to experience everything Albufeira has to offer – and believe me, there’s a lot!

Over the past 10 years traveling Algarve , I’ve regularly visited this beautiful coastal town and discovered many gems that never fail to wow me each time I return.

From hiking scenic trails to exploring hidden coves, April in Albufeira has become my favorite month to visit.

In this post, I’ll share my favorite things to do in Albufeira in April , from chill beach activities to cultural experiences.

Get ready to be inspired by everything this charming destination has in store as the perfect start to your spring or end to your winter getaway.

Pinterest pin showing a photo of a sunny beach in Albufeira

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Psssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Albufeira? Have a look at my other posts:

Best Things to do in Albufeira, Portugal
Things to do in Albufeira in November
Airbnb in Albufeira

Table of Contents

Top resources to travel Algarve, Portugal

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Best things to do in Albufeira in April

Explore the Old Town
Go on a cave tour
Enjoy a food tour

1. Springtime

Best things to do in Albufeira, Portugal, view out onto courtyard with trees and white stone tiles surrounded by white buildings with terracotta rooftops under a blue sky with clouds

If you are pondering what to do in Albufeira in April, this time of the year guarantees a great time to visit the city.

Is Albufeira hot in April? The sun can shine eagerly in this place, and the pleasant temperatures allow visitors to enjoy biking and hiking on Algarve trails .

The breeze and atmosphere can feel like treading the seaside when walking.

At this point, visitors can also appreciate the extensive species of flora—varying in every color and scent.

When the white flowers of almond trees and the essence of orange trees once blossomed, the feel-good spring is already here.

The breathtaking landscapes of the city also make it a great spot to take pictures.

Book the best Albufeira tours

2. Beach Bliss

Airbnb in Algarve, sandy beach sparsely populated with holidaymakers next to blue waters with white foam surrounded by short cliffs with cluster of white-walled buildings overlooking the bay under a cloudy blue sky

Is Albufeira busy in April? There are many things to do in Albufeira in April, especially when spending time with family.

I can recommend beaches in Algarve for relaxing and unwinding.

Relaxing on the eye-catching seaside of the Praia dos Pescadores offers a great view of its golden sands and gentle, calm waters.

I also enjoyed the Praia da Oura beach, which offers restaurants, water sports activities, and bars, making the resort popular with young people.

If you are a water freak like me, you’ll greatly enjoy Albufeira in April!

There are several water activities to choose from when visitors seek fun and exciting adventures.

The most popular water activities among its patrons are wakeboarding, parasailing, skiing, and even speed boat riding.

Book a diving tour in Albufeira

3. Cultural Exploration

things to do in Albufeira old town, old buildings and small shop at sunset

Exploring Albufeira is incomplete without exploring its heritage and history.

Aside from beautiful beaches, the city also offers beautiful landmarks to explore.

The Bell Tower caught my attention when I traveled the city because of its vintage appeal.

Constructed in 1869, the Bell Tower of the parish church is only accessible using a 28-meter stairway.

Also, there is the Praça da República, the Republic Square, which played an immense role during the maritime defense of the city.

After touring these heritage sites, visiting the city’s museums—like the Sacred Art Museum and Museu Municipal de Arqueologia—is one of the many things I enjoyed a lot in Albufeira, Portugal.

4. Culinary Delights

seafood stew in a copper pan on a wooden cutting board

Digging into the best local cuisine is part of the things to do in Albufeira in April.

Big eaters can never go wrong with Feijoada —a stew made with meat, beans, and herbs.

For people with a sweet tooth, I recommend trying Dom Rodrigos for dessert or a snack, which looks so pretty and can create great Instagram pictures.

Fresh from the sea, try the Conquilhas à Algarvia, a signature dish made of clams for a hearty meal.

For someone who cannot get enough seafood, Cataplana de Marisco , a dish comprising lobster, clams, squid, and herbs, can surely satisfy that appetite.

April is a great month for food enthusiasts, as the city’s market overflows with fresh produce.

It’s also the best time to try Cataplana as the local produce is particularly fresh.

Book Algarve food tours now

5. Outdoor Adventures

a view on the cave beach in algarve, portugal

Is Albufeira busy in April? Most locals consider April a quiet and laid-back month unless Easter is near.

However, it allows the lively things every visitor can do in the city.

For someone looking for adventure, quad biking, parasailing, and jeep riding can give you that adrenaline spike.

There are plenty of hiking trails to be explored!

Hiking and nature walks to explore the beauty of Coelha Beach Trail and Sesmarias-Guia-Silves are also not something to miss.

Book a cave tour in Albufeira

6. Festivals and Events

Crowd in front of stage waving their hands to music during a music festival, one of top things to do in Albufeira in April

When visiting the city of Albufeira, the FIESA Sand Sculpture Festival is one highlight during April.

Because of the great weather, Festival Al-Buhera—the festival where market stalls sell anything under the sun—also happens with live music.

Locals also celebrate Liberation Day on the 25th of April to remember one of the most significant moments in the history of Portugal.

These festivals also offer an opportunity to immerse in the culture and get friendly with the locals.

Albufeira in spring is ton of fun and you’ll not run out of things to do here!

7. Nightlife in Albufeira

People dancing together in a club with a live DJ, one of top things to do in Albufeira in April

The bursting city of Albufeira is one of the liveliest towns at night in Algarve.

After hitting the beaches and after the sun sets, the sighting of people going for the vibrant things to do in Albufeira Marina builds up, which include:

Karaoke singing
Delving into nightlife establishments
Bar hopping
Relaxing on breezy beach cafes

These sleepless nightlife activities are not only limited to partygoers but also offer traditional hearty meals and impressive local wines.

For instance, the Montechoro Strip is perfect for people ready to express themselves on the dance floor, while the Old Town of Albufeira is also an excellent place to eat snacks and buy souvenirs.

8. Family-Friendly Activities

Two persons sliding down a colorful white and orange water slide

The city also has many family-friendly amenities to let kids and adults enjoy their vacations.

If a family is looking for things to do in Albufeira in April, there are several kid-friendly beaches, parks, and zoos available that they can choose from.

Water activities for kids continue beyond beaches because water parks are available for families to enjoy.

When I went to Slide & Splash , the most well-regulated, safest, and largest water park in the country, it was a fun and exciting experience.

Likewise, there are several recreational activities for children to choose from.

There is a mini tourist train for tiny adventurers and a pirate boat cruise that delivers incredible entertainment for kids.

9. Shopping Spree

Ceramics being sold in a flea market in albufeira

I generally buy my souvenirs from Albufeira’s bustling shopping scene.

I also check out its boutiques and specialist shops, which sell ceramics, cork items, and other local products.

The flea market of Rua da Escolas occurs twice a month. Buyers can find a wide range of goods suitable for haggling, from household goods to exotic souvenirs.

When I searched for things to do in Albufeira in April when shopping, Avenida da Liberdade is the best place to begin.

The stores in this area usually sell fashion items, specializing in clothing, sunglasses, bags, footwear, and more.

10. Wellness and Relaxation

panoramic pool at one of the most unique places to stay in Algarve

After experiencing the beaches and enjoying the nightlife, I love hitting Albufeira’s spas and wellness centers.

Notably, the best hotels in Albufeira can provide visitors with quality service, hospitality, and the best spa centers you can experience.

For instance, the Vila Joya is a well-known luxurious hotel that provided me with a top-notch spa service.

It boasts Michelin-rated restaurants, outdoor pools, and private beach access.

After all the running to the beach, walking while shopping, and all those extreme outdoor adventures, rejuvenation is an efficient course to relax those sore muscles and get ready for another adventure.

Hotels with wellness areas are great sanctuaries, especially if you are searching for where to stay in Algarve .

Book the best hotels in Albufeira

11. Local Markets

Colorful local produce being sold in a fresh market in albufeira

The itinerary is incomplete as a traveler, and I have not explored the fresh markets and local produce.

The Mercado Municipal dos Caliços and Modelo Continente are two of the most convenient markets to purchase daily needs, from food outlets to local products like ceramics and items made of cork.

Consumers can find various food items and products in these markets, including seafood like fish, squid, and octopus. In addition, local produce like olives, fruits, and freshly baked bread is also abundant.

The market has everything you need and reasonable prices.

There is also an outdoor eating area, and it is close to the bus station—talk about convenience!

12. Day Trips from Albufeira

a white building with a statue in front of it with a garden in albufeira in april

Day trips are also part of the things to do in Albufeira in April, as they allow you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

People can appreciate the Ponta da Piedade, a stunning rock formation on the southern coast, or even a leisure walk at Ferragudo.

In addition, Sagres—only an hour away from Albufeira—is not to be ignored.

There are so many things to do in Sagres , including surfing and cliff viewing. And having the last Bratwurst sausage on continental Europe.

A jeep safari or full-day tour of the Algarve Eastern’s Finest are also great activities to add to day excursions.

Other fun places near Albufeira are Olhao, Faro, Lagos, and Monchique, where you can go hiking in Algarve .

Book the best Faro tours

13. Photography Hotspots

It is easy to find an Instagrammable area in Albufeira because of its natural scenic views and distinct culture.

Apart from the beautiful beaches of Praia da Falésia and Arrifes Beach, the Albufeira Old Town Square also gives a cultural vibe that is always buzzing with activity.

The Miradouro Rossio also offers one of the most romantic and stunning views.

The area is also Instagram-worthy because of the romantic scenery, encouraging visitors to treasure a memorable moment.

To add a bit of history, visiting the Castle of Paderne can be worthwhile because of its breathtaking ruins and historical status. Before getting there, it is already an adventure.

From the gravelly roads to the narrow bridges that lead to the olive groves, these spots can offer anyone a splendid opportunity to take pictures.

Once getting to the 12th-century sandstone fortress, the site will give anyone a unique backdrop for photos and a bragging right for touching the historical ground.

14. Golfing in Albufeira

Golf field with flag and golf bag in algarve

When in the mood to do some sporty activity, the metropolis of Albufeira offers the best golf courses for novice and expert enthusiasts.

The Vale de Pinta Golf Course , regarded as one of the best in Europe, allows visitors to experience the gorgeous Portuguese countryside while playing.

For beginners, the Gramacho golf course would be the best choice. It has an 18-hole course, several tee points, few hazards, and wide fairways—perfect for a novice game.

Yet, it does not only cater to beginners, as gold experts can also confidently enjoy the place.

15. Local Entertainment

Large collection of brightly colored fireworks exploding in the dark night sky in albufeira

Finding things to do in Portugal in April can be easy. Live performances and cultural shows are everywhere.

With live music events, check the schedules before going to the event, just in case there are changes.

During Liberation Day, the community sets up live music and entertainment shows to cater to large crowds if you are looking for what to do in Albufeira in April.

It is also often paired with sports festivals and fireworks shows to complete the whole show during April.

The Strip, around Avenida Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro, has bars and nightlife entertainment venues that feed different people with different musical tastes.

In contrast with The Strip, the Old Town offers a more traditional and calm atmosphere in which to enjoy the music of local bands, DJs, and even traditional musicians.

My final thoughts on things to do in Albufeira in April

travel bloggger in quinta do lago in algarve portugal

If a traveler plans to visit the city and wonders what Albufeira is like in April—it is warm, lively, and offers an array of experiences. Again, I can say that Albufeira is indeed worth visiting.

Albufeira’s art, traditions, food, and history amaze visitors. It is a place travelers should take advantage of when backpacking in Europe.

From the scenic bodies of water, the terrain, and the shopping spree to the animated nightlife, Albufeira is a memorable traveling destination for anyone.

FAQ about Albufeira in April

Is albufeira busy in april.

If you are wondering what is Albufeira like in April, the towns of Albufeira are busy during April because it is the best season to visit. The water parks, beaches, and other attractions are open, and there are multiple things to do, yet the atmosphere is relaxing.

Is Albufeira hot in April?

In April, the city is warm enough to go to the beach or plan to see great views. The temperature ranges around 22-25°C (72-77 ° F), making April almost a summer-like month.

What are things to do in Albufeira in the rain?

If you are looking for things to do in Albufeira when it rains, head to the exhibits and indoor activities such as wine tasting or visiting galleries like the Galeria de Arte Pintor Samora Barros.

Another thing to do in Albufeira in the rain is visit the Municipal Museum of Archaeology.

For a more crafty and local experience, the folks at Porches Pottery let interested guests watch how these artisans hone their craft. They embellish their trades with Moorish, Greek, and Celtic designs.

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Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

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Millions of tourists travel to Portugal every year, but it can be hard to figure out where to go. Luckily, this 1-Week Portugal Itinerary guides you on where to spend 7 days in Portugal.

The itinerary starts in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon and then heads south. You can enjoy the journey fully through public transport, but when leaving Lisbon to head to the Algarve, we do recommend renting a car.

When renting your vehicle, you can select to pick up the car at Lisbon airport and return it at the end of your trip at Faro airport, where this itinerary ends.

While both Central Portugal and the north have a lot to offer, this 7-day itinerary is perfect for a first-timer who hasn’t yet visited the country.

For everything you need to know before traveling to Portugal, check out our Portugal Survival Guide.

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon

This 1-Week Itinerary in Portugal starts in the capital of Lisbon. Many cities around the world fly directly to Lisbon. You can fly directly to Lisbon from many US airports, including Miami, Boston, Washington, San Francisco, and New York.

One of the oldest cities in western Europe, Lisbon has seen a boom in tourism due to its unique beauty, historical attractions, and affordability.

The birthplace of Amália Rodrigues, the iconic Fado singer, Lisbon is rich in culture, history, and striking views.

Guide to Lisbon

For your visit day in Lisbon, start your day off in Alfama. The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and the home of fado. Explore the neighborhood and look out for Fado spots, as well as historical monuments such as the Lisbon Cathedral, the Convent of the Grace, and more.

For lunch, take a look at our favorite restaurants in Lisbon.

For a traditional Portuguese meal, we recommend Alfaia, one of the oldest restaurants in Lisbon that opened in 1880.

If you are vegan but still want to try Portuguese food, we definitely recommend Ao 26 Vegan Food Project.

For the best pizzas in Lisbon, head to Casanova in Santa Apolonia to take some pizzas cooked in a large wood-burning stove and enjoy views of the Tagus river.

Then head to Miradouro da Graca, one of the most iconic viewpoints in Lisbon. At the top of the seven hills of the city, you get to see historic neighborhoods and take photographs of the surroundings.

Then take the iconic 28 tram from Miradouro da Graca that passed by Praca do Comercio and other locations. Hop off in Chiado.

Chiado is well known for being home to the best stores a nd luxurious cafes, located in the heart of the city. The 1700s Bertrand book store is located here, as well as the emblematic cafe A Brasileira.

Take a 15-minute walk to Praca do Comercio, the city’s central waterpoint front. The large square used to be the site of the former royal palace that was destroyed in the Great Lisbon Earthquake in 1755.

There are multiple shops and restaurants in the square. You can also climb the Rua Augusta Arch for 360 views of the city and the square.

For dinner, head to 1 de Maio in Bairro Alto for an affordable Portuguese meal. This hidden restaurant offers delicious fresh seafood that you can see from the window and a variety of meats like lamb.

After dinner, head to Pink Street in Cais do Sodre. The street features pink pavement and was once Lisbon’s Red Light District. Today, it is a nightlife hotspot.

Many bars today still reflect the Red Light District such as the iconic bar Pensao Amor which has memorabilia from the time. Walk around to experience the nightlife which often fills the street, locals bringing their drinks outside.

Best Hotels in Lisbon

Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel: Awarded the Best Luxury Green Hotel in 2019, Inspira Liberdade provides a relaxing Feng-Shui vibe for its guests. The hotel has a SPA, fitness room, bar, and a restaurant with Portuguese food called Pen Brasserie Mediterrânica.
Selena Secret Garden : The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room. In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado.
Bairro Alto Hotel: This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha.

Day 2: Lisbon

For your second day in Lisbon, we recommend exploring Belem. Belem lies along the Tejo Estuary and is home to two UNESCO sites, Torre de Belem and Mosteiro dos Jeronimos.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is a former monastery in Belém constructed in Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style and you can visit the church for free.

Torre de Belem is a 16th-century fortification that once served as an embarkation spot for Portugal explorers. It features a Manueline style and has been a World Heritage Site since 1983.

A 2-minute walk from the monastery, head to Pasteis de Belem where the traditional Portuguese custard tart was first invented.

In the afternoon, we recommend booking a sightseeing tour. Since you only have 2 days in Lisbon, this is a great way to see as much of the city as possible. Here are our favorite guided tours of Lisbon:

Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk : This tuk-tuk tour rides up and down the hills of Lisbon, going through the city’s oldest neighborhoods and main attractions.
Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Book a 24-hour ticket which includes an audio guide. This affordable ticket allows you to visit different routes and hop in as you would like.
Lisbon 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike: This tour allows you to cycle through Lisbon on comfortable e-bikes with a guided tour. You will get to visit different viewpoints and historical attractions.

At night, walk to Bairro Alto, the most popular area for drinking outdoors. Tons of locals and tourists line the streets of Bairro Alto with a beer in hand. We recommend Ze dos Bois Gallery, a musical center that has live music and serves tasty drinks.

Best Restaurants in Lisbon

Ze dos Cornos: For a Portuguese person, this place is like arriving at your Avó’s (grandma´s) house for dinner. Everything off the menu hits the spot, but try their codfish with potatoes or their rabbit. You can have a large full meal here with wine for under €15.
The Green Affair: Open since 2018, the Green Affair serves Portuguese and international dishes. The restaurant offers lunch menus for less than €11 including a starter, main, and drink. For dinner, you’ll pay around €30 for two people.
Alma: Henrique Sá Pessoa’s, Alma also has two Michelin stars. The menu includes Portuguese dishes with influences from his worldwide travels. The menus start at €145 per person and do not include drinks. The wine tasting menu costs €80 per person.

Day 3: Day Trip to Cascais & Sintra from Lisbon

Book Sintra & Cascais Tour

The great thing about Lisbon is its proximity to quaint coastal towns. Our favorites: Sintra and Cascais. We recommend either driving to these locations (both around 30 minutes from Lisbon), booking a guided tour , or taking a 30-minute train to each town.

In Sintra, we recommend heading to Piriquita for the staple deserted called a “travesseiro”. After this energy boost, head to the Castle of the Moors. This is a medieval castle that sits on a hilltop and was built by the Moors in the 8th century.

Then, head to Pena Palace, one of the most iconic palaces in all of Portugal. The palace has a Disney-like feel, painted in beautiful colors in a romanticist style. You can also wander around the castle and see the beautiful green area that surrounds it. Tickets cost around €15.

Guide to Sintra

We recommend having lunch at a seafood restaurant in Cascais. Our favorites are Furnas do Guincho and Baia do Peixe, the latter being a more affordable alternative.

Then it’s time to explore Cascais, the richest municipality in the country! Head to “Praia da Rainha”, a secluded beach with a wonderful view, perfect for a family photograph.

Find Frederico Arouca street, a high street with major stores selling Portuguese souvenirs. Then walk to the City Hall in Praca 5 de Outubro, a beautiful building surrounded by cobblestoned streets.

To wrap up your day, head to Guincho beach, a 10-minute drive from the center of Cascais, to watch the sunset. If the weather is nice, take a dip! But be careful with the waves as they can get quite high.

Guide to Cascais

Day 4 & 5: Tavira

A 3-hour drive from Lisbon, drive south to Tavira, in the beautiful region of the Algarve. Alternatively, you can catch a train to Faro or a bus directly to Tavira.

Tavira was built alongside River Gilão and features some of the best beaches in the Algarve, as well as picturesque narrow streets with traditional houses. Along with the stunning beaches, the town has multiple attractions such as shops and historical buildings.

Your two days will be more slow-paced than the past days in Lisbon. You will be spending most of your time at the beach.

Our favorite beach is Praia do Barril. The beach features a wooden path over golden sand which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Due to the large size of the beach, you will rarely feel like it’s too busy, despite its popularity.

Praia de Tavira and Praia da Terra Estreita are also great alternatives in Tavira. If you want to discover multiple beaches this affordable 4-hour boat tour takes you on an octopus tour and stops at multiple beaches.

In between resting at the beach, we recommend exploring Tavira. Take a walk through the city and explore the Chapel of Sao Bras, castle, and convent. Book this 100% electric 1-hour tuk-tuk tour if you want a guided tour of the city from a local’s perspective.

Tours in Tavira

Best Hotels in Tavira

São Paulo Boutique Hotel: São Paulo Boutique Hotel is located less than 5 kilometers from the beach and features an outdoor swimming pool, bar, shared lounge, and large garden for guests to enjoy.
OZADI Tavira Hotel: A 4-star hotel AZADI Tavira Hotel is 3 kilometers away from the beach and features a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, and two restaurants.
Quinta Dos Perfumes: An 8-minute walk from the beach, Quinta dos Perfumes is an 88-acre farmhouse that features beautiful orange groves and a salt-water outdoor pool.

Guide to Tavira

Day 6: Day trip to Benagil Caves

Benagil is a fishing village known for its stunning beaches and sea caves. The Benagil caves are a must-see if you head to the Algarve. We recommend booking a guided tour, many of which start in Albufeira. Here are the best day tours to Benagil Caves.

Dolphins and Benagil Caves from Albufeira : This boat tour allows you to discover dolphins, marine life, and Benagil caves in an inflatable boat. A stop for a swim is included!
Caves and Coastline Cruise from Albufeira to Benagil : This catamaran cruise takes you on a scenic route between Albufeira to Benagil. You will get to explore the sea caves and go for a swim.
Boat Tour to Benagil Caves from Armacao de Pera : A boat cruise from Armacao de Pera that takes you to see the Benagil Caves with a crew that will tell you about the region.

Benagil Tours

Day 7: Morning at the beach and travel home

Enjoy your last day at your favorite beach in Tavira. Again, we recommend Praia do Barril. Then travel back home from Faro Airport, only a 30-minute drive away from Tavira.

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20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal

One of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, visitors flock to Portugal for affordable food and wine, ancient history and architecture, and of course, its famously beautiful beaches.

Portugal is also entering a new era of cool and I’m personally a big fan of the country! From my many trips, here are my favourite spots I’d love to share with you…

1. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha - most beautiful beach in Portugal

There are many beautiful beaches in Portugal, but I think this place is famous for a reason! Because of its proximity to the crowded Algarve region, many dismiss the gorgeous beach at Praia da Marinha.

Located on the Atlantic coast in Caramujeira, Lagoa Municipality, Algarve, it’s one of the top attractions in Portugal. Many consider it the best beach in Portugal and class it as one of the Top 100 beaches in the world .

Honestly, though, it is a seriously spectacular stretch of sand, ideal for snorkelling. The striking rocky cliff faces set it apart from other beautiful Mediterranean beaches.

My highlights…

Exploring the incredible and unique rock formations, cliffs, caves, and rock pools.
Going snorkelling – the water quality and clarity here was exceptional and I saw many different species of marine life.
Exploring the stunning coastline, caves, and grottoes and going dolphin-spotting by boat.
Taking a unique trip on a pirate ship !

A video showing the beauty of Praia da Marinha in 4k

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Lisbon - the most beautiful places to visit in Portugal

Being the capital of Portugal, Lisbon is an obvious place to start. It receives around half the fuss of other European capitals, but I honestly think it can easily equal them in beauty and charm! A lot of its appeal probably lies in its deep-rooted history, coming second only to Athens in the oldest European capital stakes.

The Portuguese City is a beautiful mix of old and new, and alongside the city’s endearing old-fashioned qualities, I love that there is also plenty to please the boutique crowds.

Visit the Gothic cathedrals, historic cafes, vintage trams, and the narrow lanes of Lisbon’s lovely backstreets. Don’t forget the vibrant alfresco coffee bars and fabulous restaurants.

The city is built on a series of hills, meaning that everywhere you venture within Lisbon you are practically guaranteed to have a gorgeous view.

My favorite highlights…

Exploring the delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets and ancient houses of Alfama (one of Lisbon’s oldest areas) which were lined with shops selling traditional crafts and cafes.
Wandering the steep cobbled streets of bohemian Bairro Alto.
Taking in the incredible panoramic views of Libson from the city’s highest point, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Tasting a custard tart at Manteigaria , which has the reputation of making the best custard tarts in the city!

Cascais - one of the best places to visit in Portugal

Once a sleepy little fishing village, Cascais is now a chic coastal resort (just west of Lisbon) and one of my personal favourite holiday spots in the country.

Famed for its glorious beaches, sophisticated nightlife, water sports, and adventure pursuits, the area has an elegant, cosmopolitan quality that is hard to beat.

Due to its exquisite scenery, it’s also eternally popular with artisans, writers, and artists. The town boasts a remarkable selection of art, proudly displayed in The Conde de Castro Guimaraes Museum . Another of the town’s attractions is the smart new marina filled with yachts that shimmer and glisten in the bright sunshine.

Taking a wander around Centro Historico de Cascais which was filled with wonderful architecture, shops, eateries, and a lovely atmosphere.
Discovering Boca do Inferno, a striking chasm located in the seaside cliffs close to the city.
Lazing around on Praia do Tamariz a wonderful beach with soft golden sand.
Visiting the cosmopolitan Caiscia Marina where yachts and boats gently bob.

4. The Algarve Region

The Algarve Beach - where to go in Portugal

Yes, it’s developed and touristy, but it’s also popular for a reason!

Not only is the weather mild here all year round, but when you come to the Algarve, you will be treated to stunning golden beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. It also offers some of the best golf in the country!

My personal highlights…

Relaxing on my favourite beaches – Praia da Marinha Falesia Beach, Praia Da Cordoama, Odeceixe Beach and Praia dos Tres Irmaos.
Going on a wild dolphin watching boat tour .
Discovering the region’s best-hidden secrets and most scenic spots in a fun jeep safari .
Going on wine tasting at a local vineyard .
Exploring Ponta Da Piedale, a headland with a group of striking yellow-golden coastal rock formations which are up to 20 meters high (located along the coastline of the town of Lagos). They are one of the most famous attractions in Portugal.

With its 14th-century walls, medieval winding streets, colourful, picturesque houses, bell tower, and ornate tiles, the newly fashionable city of Porto is a must-see. It’s the country’s second-biggest city, located on the coast in the Northwest.

Sit under the arches at Placa da Ribeira (the riverfront square) and watch the boats float past. Then, visit the palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa. Most apartments in the area have terraces that overlook the tranquil waters.

UNESCO has declared the Portuguese City a World Heritage Site. Its combination of old-world charm, cobbled streets, and bustling metropolitan culture makes it an intriguing travel destination!

Exploring Rua das Flores a wonderful pedestrianized street filled with newly restored buildings, unique shops, and independent eateries, bars, and cafes.
Taking a stroll down the dock of Ribeira do Porto where I gazed at the stunning Douro River.
Discovering Praia de Matosinhos beach and watching the brave surfers (the waves are very high here).
Seeing the exquisite Palacio da bolsa a historical building in Porto, Portugal. The palace was built in the 19th century in Neoclassical style and is now a designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Drinking wine at the Miradouro Ignez which has a deck overlooking Porto’s red-tiled rooftops and the Douro River.

6. Douro Valley

Douro Valley - stunning places to visit in Portugal

The River Douro winds through Spain and Northern Portugal. It was once a wild, turbulent river, but the clever introduction of eight vast dams has tamed its spirit, and it is now very tranquil and peaceful.

The area’s beauty isn’t limited to these still and shimmering waters, though. It is a beautiful part of the world, bordered by stunning sweeping hills and expanses of delicate almond blossoms.

The area remains largely unspoilt, with roads zigzagging through the mountains and cruise boats softly pressing through the water.

This gorgeous place is famed for supplying grapes to the best Port companies. All major names are proudly displayed on the hillside vineyards, which change colour through the seasons as the vines mature.

Visiting the wonderful Mateus Palace – both the palace and the grounds are breathtaking!
Going for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
Taking a boat trip or a river cruise on the beautiful Douro River.
Going on a wine and food tour – the vineyards and cuisine are one of the highlights here!
Going for a scenic train journey on their historic steam train.

Sintra Portugal - great places to visit in Portugal

Located in a privileged position in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, near Lisbon’s capital, it’s said to be one of Lord Byron’s favourite Portuguese haunts.

It’s an exceptional village and easily one of the top-rated attractions in Portugal. It is ripe with richly coloured buildings and breathtaking architecture.

Palaces, turrets, a romantic Moorish castle, and a misty dense forest are all part of this sweet little place. The vegetation is lush and exotic due to the microclimate.

There are many historic buildings to admire and clusters of leafy mansions with immaculate lawns and stunningly decorative features.

Spending a good part of the day exploring the beautiful Quinta da Regaleira , built at the turn of the 20th century and classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. The romantic architectural complex is made up of a stunning palace, a chapel, and gardens with grottos.
Visiting The Moorish Castle Castelo dos Mouros, the views are fantastic!
Taking a scenic ride on the Sintra Tram.
Discovering the hidden beautiful beach of Praia da Ursa.

Aveiro - the best places to visit in Portugal

Set along a lagoon – Ria de Aveiro – this is a fabulous easy-on-the-eye destination if you’re touring Portugal.

A truly maritime city, Aveiro is no surprise. Be a great place to visit if you love walking along charming quays and beautiful canals navigated by colourful boats.

There are other great things to do in this city, including popping to the museum to see religious art, gazing at Art Noveau buildings, or heading to the sandy beaches for fun in the sun.

Going on a Moliceiro boat ride which was one of the best highlights of a trip here, these are colourful gondola-type boats traditional to the area.
Exploring the beautiful Nova Beach, a lovely sandy beach lined with colourful houses.
Gazing at the wonderful Art Nouveau buildings in downtown Aveiro.
Eating at Salpoente – a unique Michelin-star restaurant and art exhibition which served up fantastic Portuguese cuisine.

Sagres beach - lovely places to explore in Portugal

This town is located in the Algarve but is much less overdeveloped than the towns further east. It’s popular with beachgoers, surfers, digital nomads, hippies, and people who want to kick back for a while.

It has a secluded end-of-the-world feel (very different to the rest of the Algarve) and is home to a gorgeous sandy beach, great surf, and sea-carved cliffs. It has a cool, laid-back vibe due to its proximity away from the crowds in the rest of the region.

Trying surfing! The west coast of the Algarve has gained a reputation as being one of Europe’s best surfing destinations, and Sagres is its surfing capital!
Exploring Cape Saint Vincent a headland that is one of the southwesternmost points of Portugal and mainland Europe.
Checking out the wonderful beaches – Martinhal Beach and Mareta Beach were my favourites.

Obidos - one of the prettiest towns in Portugal

It is one of the most picturesque locations in Portugal. This is an ancient fortified town located in the Estremadura Province. In the 13th century, Portuguese Queen Isabel was so enchanted by the village of Obidos that her husband, King Denis I, gave it to her as a present.

This prompted a centuries-long tradition of Portuguese kings buying this picturesque village for their queens. When you visit this beautiful spot, you’ll understand exactly why Isabel fell in love with it!

My favourite highlights…

Wandering around the historic village and soaking up the quaint sights!
Visiting Castelo de Obidos the well-preserved medieval castle which had stunning views.
Exploring Rua Direita, a road filled with lots of boutiques and excellent restaurants.
Discovering Lagoa de Obidos, a lagoon which extends between the municipalities of Óbidos and Caldas da Rainha.

Marvao - beautiful attraction in Portugal

Nestled peacefully between Castelo de Vide and Portalegre and only a few kilometres from Spain, this idyllic place is perched on the highest crest of the Serra de São. Alentejo’s beautiful medieval mountainside town still has its original 13th-century walls and is perfectly preserved.

The streets wind seductively between the surrounding walls, making Marvao a beauty spot! As you can imagine, the views from across the town will not be missed.

The lovely hotel Pousada do Marvao, Santa Maria, is the ideal place to stay here – it consists of two of the village houses that have been converted, ensuring it is in keeping with the rest of the town.

Visiting the Centro Cultural de Marvao which is a well-preserved example of medieval architecture and also a very important part of Portugal’s military past.
Exploring the pretty Aglomerado urbano Intra-muros a picturesque village filled with 150 whitewashed houses set in narrow streets with a castle above it.
Checking out the Cidade Romana de Ammaia the Roman ruins of Ammaia.
Taking a tour of the Lagar Museu António Picado Nunes a Heritage museum in Portugal telling the history of Castelo De Marvao Olive Oil.

Situated three hours South of the capital, near Cape Sagres, Salema is a beautifully tranquil beach resort and one of the best spots in Portugal, especially if you want to be near the coast.

Although located in the package holiday favourite, the Algarve, this pretty village remains comparatively untouched by the ravages of tourism. It offers various eating places, a traditional outdoor market, one small main street, and clusters of pretty white stucco houses.

This peaceful fishing village is located between two sharp cliffs with a glorious sandy beach rolling between.

Hanging out at Lagos Marina a lovely a harbour full of speedboats and yachts.
Sunbathing on Porto de Mos Beach a long sandy beach with gorgeous views of the blue-green ocean.
Exploring Portimão Marina a large spot with super large yachts.
Relaxing on beautiful Rocha Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the Algarve.

13. Evora

Evora - best places to visit in Portugal

Évora is a Portuguese city in the municipality of Évora and the capital of Portugal’s south-central Alentejo region. The beautifully preserved historic town has been classed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and when you visit it, you’ll soon discover why.

Encircled by white-washed houses, it’s home to a 2000-year-old Templo Romano, a 16th-century aqueduct that can be followed by foot for five miles, and the incredible Capela da Ossos—a sinister crypt that displays the full skeletons of over 5,000 Evora residents.

Exploring Sé (Cathedral) a Romanesque and Gothic cathedral which was built in 1204.
Taking photographs of the Roman Temple believed to have been erected in the 2nd or 3rd century AD.
Visiting the Capela dos Ossos – the Bone Chapel lined with the remains of 5,000 monks, it’s the most macabre tourist attraction in the country!
People-watching in the pretty town square, which is a favourite meeting place where locals mingle with tourists.

14. Sado Estuary

Sado Estuary Portugal - stunning landscapes in Portugal

If being up close and personal with some fascinating creatures is your idea of a great way to spend a day, then this nature reserve should be a destination on your Portugal itinerary.

A little off the beaten track, it has a home between Alcácer do Sal, Comporta, and Setúba.

Not only is it home to a multitude of different birds, but if you are lucky enough you may also see a dolphin or two as well. With marshes, sandbanks, woods, reeds, and so much more, this is the place to head to soak up some of the wildlife that calls the area its home.

Taking a boat tour.
Spotting wildlife, including flamingos.
Going on a Full-Day Dolphin Watching Tour from Lisbon.

15. Coimbra

Coimbra - most beautiful places to visit in Portugal

This wonderful city has history, as it was Portugal’s former capital. Based on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra is home to one of the oldest universities in Portugal and Europe.

The university is so prized that it has made its way onto the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, and when you explore the city, you will likely see why.

Also, visit its 18th-century bell tower, the famous baroque library and Romanesque cathedral.

Visiting the interesting University of Coimbra which was founded in Lisbon before being transferred to Coimbra in 1537.
Relaxing in Parque Verde do Mondego, a lovely green space in the city.
Exploring Monastery of Santa Cruz which is well-preserved and founded in 1131.

16. Amarante

Amarante town in Portugal - an amazing place to visit in Portugal

This handsome and elegant riverside town originates from the 4th century BC and is found in the northern part of the country.

Here, picturesque balconies overhang a river, and unique striking bridges stride the water. Amarante and the other parts of the Minho region are also famous for their grapes.

It is in this area that the unique green wine is made. Aside from being a great place to drink wine, Amarante is an attractive riverside town in Portugal. It ensures you’ll get the best in a picture-perfect view no matter where you go!

Azores Islands - best places in Portugal

Made up of nine different islands and located way off the coast of Portugal in the mid-Atlantic, The Azores may be the ideal place for those looking for adventure. However, they are also a great place for those searching for beauty and awe-inspiring scenery.

An unusual travel destination, every single one of the islands has its charm to bring and absorb, so we advise you to try and discover as much as you can.

Expect vineyards, dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, green pastures, and lake-filled calderas, and don’t forget your walking boots and surfboard!

18. Praia Da Amoreira

Praia Da Amoreira, pretty beach in Portugal

Part of the Algarve, Praia Da Amoreira is a beach considered a best-kept secret. However, that will soon change once people realise how beautiful it is.

A stunning beach with the perfect combination of clear waters and golden sand, this beach is ideal for lazing around in the sunshine, exploring rock pools, and discovering wildlife.

It really can offer you everything that you need.

19. Guimaraes

Guimaraes - a beautiful city to visit in Portugal

A historic city in the North of Portugal is filled with fantastic medieval buildings like the hilltop and 10th-century Guimarães Castle, with panoramic city views.

If there is one thing you will soon realise about Guimaraes, it has a definite royal air.

Perhaps it is the city’s history and culture (its old town has World Heritage Site status) or the stunning castle and palace. Either way, if you want to capture some amazing photos, this city is a great Portuguese destination to add to your list.

20. Tavira Island

Found off of the coast of Portugal and only accessible by boat (from the town of Tavira, a small city on Portugal’s Algarve coast), those who make the trip over to Tavira Island will be rewarded with not only a beautiful, peaceful place but also a stunning beach too.

It is thought to offer one of the best beaches in the Algarve region—an accolade that is hard to achieve. Not only will you see the sun here, but you will also likely see a wealth of nature and wildlife!

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh - writer and photographer With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board , Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

24 thoughts on “20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal”

I liked Lisbon and LOVED the Algarve. Every beach is so photogenic!

Looks like such an amazing country. Thanks for the list. I’m actually planning to visit Porto next month! 🙂

Pleeeaaase add Cabo da Roca to the list, it’s one of my favourite places in the world ❤️ It’s stunning, i promise

Great choices would love to visit Portugal one day!

Don’t forget the gorgeous Madeira Island when visiting main land Portugal.

This island loated aboud 550 miles south west of Lisbon is one of the most beautiful places in the World. it’s absolutely stunning.

We unfortunately never got to Portugal after seeing so much of Spain over a 6 week period. After reading your post I think we missed out. Will definitely have to get there.

Add it to the list!

I agree with this list but I would add a place: Gerês. To me is THE most beautiful place 🙂

We have to admit we didn’t see it on our trip but when we go back we’ll be definitely checking it out!

I agree with you. I already consider myself Portuguese and go there once a year. I always go to Geres one of my favorite places.

I love Portugal and I totally agree with your choices! Lisbon is a beautiful capital city.

As always some stunning photos of places I’ve not heard of but immediately want to see. I especially like the Douro valley shot and the one of Sintra, fabulous architecture quite unlike any I’ve seen. That long-dreamed-of Iberian peninsula trip just jumped up another notch.

Couldn´t agree more but would add Tavira. A magical historic city with great beaches, food and people

Great pictures! To many, Portugal is still a hidden gem that needs to be discovered with useful and scenic posts like this one. As we portuguese would say “sejam bemvindos” (you are welcome)!

Great post, I’ve been to a few of these places but would definitely like to go back and see some more. Lisbon is a great city.

Seeing these pictures I’m soooo looking forward to my Portugal trip this summer! Of the things on your list i’m planning to do: Sintra, Lisbon, possibly Cascais, Porto, Douro Valley and Obidos. Jeej!:)

Let us know how you get on!

My friends went to Praia da Marinha the other day and they really enjoyed the place. Stunning beaches, hospitable locals and yummy food. I would definitely go for it as well.

As Portuguese Im proud to read this article and be living in Óbidos, is really a destination to visit that you will not be disappointed, all the other places selected are a fantastic choice of so much beauty that you can discover in Portugal, visit us we welcome you with a big 🙂

desperate to get to Portugal. hoping i can tag along with Mrs. O during one of her visits!

Oh you would love it, especially Lisbon and Cascais 🙂

I was secretly worried that you’d feature a place I hadnt been to!! I have indeed to alllllll of them and can attest how stunning they are!

So pleased you like our choices! Posting this definitely makes us want to go back! 🙂

I made only the briefest visit to Lisbon when I was a teenager. After reading this and seeing the pictures, I know I need to go back for more!

Normally if I were to look through a collection of travel photos I think to myself which would be the best or most beautiful place to go. Here it’s be a hard choice.

The old architecture is just so different than anything I’m use to seeing in real life. Never having been to Portugal or, for that mater, anywhere in southern Europe I guess I’ve missed out on a good deal in my life.

Thank you for sharing with us,

Springtime Special: 10 Amazing Places To Visit In Portugal This Spring

Enjoy the Portuguese shoulder season during spring, when the weather is warm and the crowds sparse, but its beauty remains unparalleled.

The Portuguese have a famous saying: “Março marçagão, manhãs de Inverno, tardes de verão” which means in March, the mornings are like winter, and afternoons are like summer. This is why spring is an excellent time to visit Portugal. As temperatures begin to rise, the months of March, April, May, and June are a brief window between the fading winter and the peak season that comes up later in the summer. During the shoulder season in spring, Portugal is sunny enough to enjoy outdoor hikes and bike rides through flower fields without getting sunburnt, but with fewer crowds to share the country's top-rated attractions and its pristine beaches with. While every Portuguese city has its own beauty and charm , these are the ones that truly shine in the pleasant weather of spring.

Lisbon is hardly the city for those who'd like to venture off the beaten path, but admittedly, the Portuguese capital basks in the soft sunshine of spring. Lisbon has tons of parks and gardens with flowers that begin to bloom in spring. Locals and visitors flock to these outdoor spaces for afternoon parties and picnics. Starting in May, parks and gardens across the city also host Jazz evenings.

Once the home of Portuguese monarchs, Sintra's beauty is befitting of the royalty that resided in it. Mountains, coastal cliffs, forests, beaches, fairytale-like palaces, and charming villas surrounded by manicured gardens, lakes, and fountains make up the resort town of Sintra. While tourists flood the quaint town in the summers, savvy travelers and locals much prefer the quietness of spring to enjoy the enchanting town of Sintra.

8 Douro Valley

While all of Portugal is famous for port wine, it's the Douro Valley where the country's best wine comes from. The region enjoys the UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its centuries-old traditional methods of brewing wine. Although Douro Valley's wineries are open all year round, spring presents the ideal weather to enjoy the spectacular terraced vineyards, boat rides, scenic train rides, and outdoor activities like hikes and bike rides.

7 Évora

The capital of Alentejo, Évora, is a preserved medieval town with much to offer for history buffs and those who enjoy architectural marvels. While summers in the city can get unbearably hot and winters strip it of its green beauty, spring is an excellent time to stroll through the winding lanes of Évora and explore the ruins of roman temples and ancient churches.

Besides Lisbon, Porto is the most sought-after city in Portugal for travelers. With a year-round calendar packed to the brim with concerts, festivals, and markets, there's never a lull in Porto. Spring is an excellent time to visit for those who want to sip on the wines of Porto, take part in the city's Easter celebrations, stroll through flowery gardens, and enjoy boat rides and walks along Porto's bridge-studded riverfront without sharing it with too many people.

5 Nazaré

Those who like to surf will find that Nazaré gets some of the best waves not just in Portugal but in the entire world. The big wave season starts in December and dwindles during the summer, but the first months of spring -- March and April -- are reported to have fairly big waves still. As a bonus, the surfers will have long gone, and the summer crowds won't come for another few months, which means you'll have the crashing waves of Nazaré all to yourself.

Related: 12 Beaches To Catch The Biggest Surfing Waves In The Worl

4 Guimarães

Guimarães is one of Portugal's finest historic cities, where each street hides something spectacular for those willing to venture beyond the prime landmarks of chateaux, palaces, castles, and churches. The former capital of Portugal, Guimarães' city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's recognized for its preservation of ancient buildings dating back to medieval times.

The Algarve is Portugal's southernmost region, and Faro is its capital. While this is where a lot of flights fly in besides Lisbon, few stay behind for more than a few hours to explore Faro, which is a shame. With the old town charm of a city lined with cobbled paths and medieval walls that open up to a Marina, Faro's streets are filled with parks, plazas, and al fresco cafes that are best enjoyed in the warm months of spring.

Related: What It's Like To Spend A Day Exploring Portugal's Algarve

Backed by the hills on one end and the open water on another, Funchal on the island of Madeira is famous for its Gothic and Romanesque-style old buildings, museums that showcase the best of Portuguese artwork, and large cellars of Madeira wine. Farmers' markets are everywhere in Funchal, and visitors may find stunning artwork in the most unexpected buildings across the city. While Funchal has excellent weather all year round, spring marks the annual Madeira Island Ultra Trail, where trail runners from all over the globe gather in the city to climb the tallest peaks on the island.

There's more to Portugal than just sandy beaches and cities overlooking riverfronts. Monsanto is a village that hangs off the top of a mountain with sweeping views of the Portuguese countryside below. Even more peculiar, however, are the houses in the village. Tiny streets weave through small cottages tucked between giant boulders. Dubbed the most Portuguese town in Portugal, Monsanto is often described as a village stuck back in time -- a living museum, if you will.

Discover Portugal: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

Its wild, rugged coastline, imposing mountains, beautiful whitewashed villages, and enchanting cities make Portugal one of the best destinations to visit in Europe . Dive deep into the Portuguese history in Porto, surf the great waters of the southern Algarve , or lazily stroll through the pretty streets of Obidos. There are lots of amazing things to do in Portugal – make your way around the country with this 2-week itinerary, stopping at all the wonderful sights in between.

A 14-Day Portugal Itinerary

Welcome to Portugal , home to many gorgeous locations full of beautiful nature, stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious food. You could easily explore this diverse country for months. However, two weeks is the perfect amount of time to get a good impression.

Planning to travel longer in Portugal? These are must-sees on a 3-week Portugal road trip .

Though you can travel by public transport, it’s much easier to discover the country by renting a car or campervan. From a picture-perfect coastline to charming timeworn cities, discover it all on a 2-week Portugal itinerary.

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Day 1-4: Lisbon

Start your journey in Lisbon , the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe . Known for its charming streets, beautiful buildings, and authentic trams, it has become one of the most popular destinations to visit within the country. Spend your days soaking up the sun, jumping from one cute cafe to the next while you roam through the city’s different districts.

The various neighborhoods of Lisbon are full of rich history and culture. You can explore the museums and art galleries or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the many little alleyways. To travel around, make sure to get a Lisbon Card . This card provides unlimited rides on all public transportation and entrance to a select number of the city’s most popular sights and museums.

Here are all your hotel options in Lisbon.

Discover the iconic Pink Street, lined with buzzing cafes and bars, perfect in the evening. Or, roam through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets in the oldest neighborhood Alfama. No matter where you go these first few days, Lisbon’s beauty and colorful tiles will take your breath away.

Also read: The Best Cities to Visit in Europe .

2-week Portugal itinerary lisbon pink street

Hotels in Lisbon

Lisbon’s best neighborhoods to stay in are the charming old town: Barrio Alto and Alfama, or in the center at Baixa and Chiado. There are also plenty of great hostels to choose from.

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

Day trip to Sintra

As you discover the beautiful capital, don’t forget to dedicate one of the days to visiting the fairytale-like Sintra . This stunning UNESCO site is full of hilltop castles, colorful palaces, and exotic gardens. It’s only a short 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, making it the perfect day trip on your 2-week Portugal itinerary. You can use the same Lisbon Card you used in the city to get there.

Get your Lisbon Card in advance here

Due to its microclimate, you’ll find the hills covered in lush greenery. Wander between the majestic pine forests as you discover the different castles and palaces in this huge natural park.

Discover Portugal: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

Tip: Sintra is incredibly popular amongst tourists, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance as it is likely to get busy. You can see availability and tickets here . From Lisbon, you can also join an organized tour of this magical town, including an entrance to a few sites.

Day 5: Porto Covo

On day 5, head south towards the cute traditional fishing village of Porto Covo. Whitewashed houses, nestled around quaint little squares and cobblestone streets, stand perched on top of some dramatic cliffs here, making it the perfect stop on any 2-week Portugal itinerary.

This relaxed little town has a great atmosphere, quiet beaches, and incredible seafood, causing it to slowly grow in popularity. It’s the perfect introduction to the series of cute little coastal villages that lead down to the Algarve . Roam through the old historic center and relax on one of the beaches, looking out at the rugged Isle do Pessegueiro (Peach island).

Stay the night in one of the cute accommodations in the center of town or go camping . If you’re traveling in the summer, try to book your accommodation in advance as it can fill up quickly.

Hotels in Porto Covo 😴

Lisbon to Porto Covo: About a 2-hour drive by car or 2,5 hours by bus. Note, however, that traveling by bus can take much longer due to potential stops between locations.

Day 6-8: Algarve

One of the highlights of a 2-week Portugal itinerary has to be time spent in the famed sunkissed Algarve region , the jewel of Portugal. Enjoy a breathtaking coastline, epic caves, and waves that give the area its reputation as a surfers’ paradise.

The surrounding, rugged nature is a sight to remember, and the charming whitewashed villages no less. Discover the area by going hiking, sunbathing at the countless beaches, and exploring the beautiful caves with emerald water.

If you’ve got the time, don’t forget to put the Benagil Cave & Praia do Marinha (beach) on your list! You can easily discover these wonderful sights of the Algarve by yourself or by joining a tour.

Book your kayaking tour to the Benagil Caves

Benagil Cave algarve portugal 2-week itinerary

Where to Stay in the Algarve

Lagos’ gorgeous town is the perfect place to base yourself for the next two days. It has a lively atmosphere and is within walking distance of some of Portugal’s best beaches and surf spots. See all hotels in Lagos .

Porto Covo to Lagos: 1h and 40 minutes of driving, or 2 hours by bus.

Hotels in the Algarve 😴

Day 9: Évora

After soaking up the sun on the southern shores, head back inland toward the stunning medieval city of Evora. This hidden gem sits at the heart of the rural Alentejo region and is a must-see if you’re 2 weeks in Portugal. Travel through the countryside full of olive groves, open plains, and traditional stone villages before reaching the impressive city walls.

Join a guided walking tour of Évora

Evora even has UNESCO status due to its beautiful architecture and rich history that goes as far back as the Romans! Spend a few hours during the day exploring the quaint streets that sit sandwiched between white and yellow-painted houses. Make sure to visit the Evora cathedral and the ruins of the Roman temple in the center.

From Lagos to Evora: 2,5 hours by car or about 4 hours by bus.

Hotels in Evora

Evora has lots of beautiful accommodation options, from cute boutique guesthouses to luxury spa hotels. It’s even possible to stay in one of the unique aqueduct houses!

Hotels in Evora 😴

Day 10: Obidos

Continue on to the ‘Town of Queens’, Obidos – one of the most stunning towns you will come across on your travels through the country. This slice of Portuguese heaven, with its whitewashed cottages and colorful flowers, is so beautiful that Portuguese kings traditionally gifted it to their queens.

Take your time walking the 1.6 km-long castle walls surrounding the town, looking out over the hills and vineyards. Then, get lost between the charming cobblestone streets filled with traditional shops and a few churches covered in beautiful azulejos (Portuguese tiles).

Join a guided walking tour of Obidos

The contrast between the white houses and their red roofs is a stunning sight, making Obidos a worthy destination on your trip to Portugal .

From Évora to Obidos: is a 2-hour journey by car. You can also travel by train or bus, which both take about 4 hours and have one transfer.

Hotels in Obidos

Hotels in obidos 😴.

Here are all your hotel options in Obidos.

Day 11: Douro Valley

Welcome to the Douro valley , home to the many port houses of the world, tucked in between the lush hillsides, amongst endless vineyards and rolling hills. Enjoy one of the many hiking trails, discover the valley towns, or participate in water sports on the wild Douro River.

Wine Tour Portugal

Make sure to book a wine tour in the Douro Valley – one of the highlights of your 2-week Portugal itinerary. Known as the oldest wine region in the world, it stretches all the way from Porto to the border of Spain . Wine tours range from tastings to learning about the harvesting experience or staying the night on one of the beautiful estates.

Book your Douro Valley wine tour in advance

Obidos to Douro Valley: just over 3 hours of driving or an 8-hour bus and train ride. This is the longest consecutive part of the journey, but it takes you past some of the most incredible landscapes in the country.

Stay overnight in the Douro Valley

We stayed at Quinta do Monte Travesso , where we did a wine tour and camped overnight. However, there are hundreds of beautiful Quintas to stay at throughout the huge region, so the options are endless.

Hotels in the Douro Valley 😴

Day 13+14: Porto

Continue your journey to your last destination, Porto. Any 2-week Portugal itinerary wouldn’t be complete without spending at least a few days in this extraordinary city. With views over the Douro estuary, Porto has one of the oldest centers in Europe, proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It dates back many centuries to when it was one of the outposts of the Roman Empire.

Here are all your hotel options in Porto.

Walk in the small hillside streets, take the funicular railway, and discover one of the most magical bookstores in Europe, Livraria Lello . Porto is not as hilly as Lisbon, meaning you can easily walk around the different neighborhoods. Though you can also join a boat or tuk-tuk tour to get even better acquainted with the impressive city of Porto.

porto portugal city trip sunset viewpoint

From the Douro Valley to Porto: 1-hour drive or 2h or 15 minutes by train (with one transfer). At the end of your 2 weeks in Portugal, you can either drive back/train to Lisbon or fly out from Porto.

best things to do porto portugal Cais da Ribeira

Where to stay in Porto

Stay in Ribeira if you want to be by the riverside and enjoy the night-time buzz of the city. For hillside views and a younger influx of restaurants, stay near Igreja do Carmo.

Hotels in Porto 😴

Costs of Traveling in Portugal

Traveling through Portugal can be done quite cheaply. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe! You can enjoy a coffee for around 2 USD and stay in beautiful accommodations for roughly 25 USD a night.

Costs of Traveling in Portugal

Travel on a budget in Portugal, from $330 − $350 USD weekly per person, mid-range $470 − $1300 USD, and high-end from $1270 − $1970 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

Hotels: $20 − $80 USD Check available hotels
Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
Transport: $5 − $20 USD Book public transport
Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
Food: $15 − $30 USD
Activities: $5 − $15 USD See tickets & tours
Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Get Around Portugal

Portugal is incredibly diverse, and many of the most beautiful sites lie in remote locations. Because of this, the best way to travel the country is to hire a campervan or rent a car. These options also give you the most flexibility, allowing you to make up your own time schedule each day.

However, you can also travel by public transport, though the journeys often take much longer. There are great rail and bus links between Lisbon and Porto, allowing you to stop at many villages in between. But also to the south, bus services run between villages.

Traveling longer in Portugal? Discover the must-sees on a 3-week Portugal road trip .

The Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal is beautiful all year round. However, the spring and fall months are the best time to visit Portugal. These are the shoulder seasons when fewer tourists visit, prices are lower, and it’s still sunny (but not as hot as in summer).

September/October is also the harvest season, making it a great time to go on a Douro Valley wine tour . Additionally, you can witness some of the best surf sessions happening in places like Nazare, where you’ll find some of the highest waves in the world.

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9 Bucket List Things To Do in Algarve, Portugal

How to travel portugal by campervan + rental, 9 best places to visit in portugal.

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World Wild Schooling

18 Best Things To Do in Porto, Portugal

Posted: April 30, 2024 | Last updated: April 30, 2024

<p>Located in Northern Portugal, Porto has some of Europe’s best views. The vibrant city center has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a phenomenal tourist experience. Lined with medieval houses that blow you away, overarching towers, and mouth-watering cuisine, this is the perfect place to destress from your daily routine. </p> <p>With so many exciting places to visit, figuring out the best things to do in Porto can be confusing. But don’t worry; our travel guide to exploring Portugal’s second-largest city will provide you with everything you need to know.</p>

Located in Northern Portugal, Porto has some of Europe’s best views. The vibrant city center has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a phenomenal tourist experience. Lined with medieval houses that blow you away, overarching towers, and mouth-watering cuisine, this is the perfect place to destress from your daily routine.

With so many exciting places to visit, figuring out the best things to do in Porto can be confusing. But don’t worry; our travel guide to exploring Portugal’s second-largest city will provide you with everything you need to know.

<p>The 76m-high Clérigos Church dates back to the 1700s and is a phenomenal place to visit. With a massive staircase to the top of the building and tall looming Clérigos towers, it’s one of the most visited landmarks in Porto.</p><p>Once you reach the highest point of the church, you’ll witness a gorgeous view of the entire city with its colorful buildings and miles and miles of glistening blue waters. You can even enjoy a beautiful sunset sprawled across the clear skies.</p><p>The luscious Jardim das Oliveiras garden is vibrant and colorful, so pack a delicious picnic basket and take it with you for the best experience.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/small-towns-in-europe/">Incredible Small Towns in Europe</a></p>

Enjoy the View From Clérigos Church

The 76m-high Clérigos Church dates back to the 1700s and is a phenomenal place to visit. With a massive staircase to the top of the building and tall looming Clérigos towers, it’s one of the most visited landmarks in Porto.

Once you reach the highest point of the church, you’ll witness a gorgeous view of the entire city with its colorful buildings and miles and miles of glistening blue waters. You can even enjoy a beautiful sunset sprawled across the clear skies.

The luscious Jardim das Oliveiras garden is vibrant and colorful, so pack a delicious picnic basket and take it with you for the best experience.

Read also: Incredible Small Towns in Europe

<p>If you’re a history buff, these three districts are the best way to explore the city’s culture. Ribeira District is lined with exciting bars, cafes, and restaurants where tourists go to explore the vibrant Porto life. At the same time, Baixa and Bolhao are found above Ribeira, where you can enjoy places like Rua de Santa Catarina, Palácio da Bolsa, and a promenade at Cais da Ribeira.</p><p>Your Portugal experience will be incomplete without visiting these popular destinations. Whether exploring the historic center to learn more about its rich history or visiting the old town to make your taste buds dance, you’ll have the best time.</p><p>You’ll find several street performances integral to the city’s culture, so be sure to check them out; they’re worth your time.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read more: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/instagrammable-places-in-europe/">Insta-Worthy Spots in Europe</a></p>

Explore the Ribeira, Baixa, and Bolhão Districts

If you’re a history buff, these three districts are the best way to explore the city’s culture. Ribeira District is lined with exciting bars, cafes, and restaurants where tourists go to explore the vibrant Porto life. At the same time, Baixa and Bolhao are found above Ribeira, where you can enjoy places like Rua de Santa Catarina, Palácio da Bolsa, and a promenade at Cais da Ribeira.

Your Portugal experience will be incomplete without visiting these popular destinations. Whether exploring the historic center to learn more about its rich history or visiting the old town to make your taste buds dance, you’ll have the best time.

You’ll find several street performances integral to the city’s culture, so be sure to check them out; they’re worth your time.

Sail in the Waters With a Douro River Cruise

Douro Valley is like a fairy tale, with its terraced vineyards producing the famous port wine and the pristine green waters adding a stunning contrast. A tiny train near the banks of the Douro River stops at multiple stations with magnificent blue and white tiles. You can also enjoy a delightful cruise through the river waters.

Not only will you be able to witness the beauty of Porto, but the cruise travels through different Quintas, where you can get off and enjoy a beverage from their wine cellars and explore the area.

Read more: Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

<p>One of the most unique things to enjoy in Portugal is the distinct Azulejos. Traditionally, they’re white and blue tiles that tell a story through murals and intricate design patterns. Some of the best ones can be found at São Bento railway station, so be sure to check them out.</p><p>These impressive pieces of art draw in several tourists from across the globe to witness the sheer mastery of this craft. You’ll spot these mesmerizing tiles sprawled across the city, lining various streets and corners.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/budget-friendly-european-cities/">Affordable European Cities</a></p>

Observe the Beauty of Porto Tiles (Azulejos)

One of the most unique things to enjoy in Portugal is the distinct Azulejos. Traditionally, they’re white and blue tiles that tell a story through murals and intricate design patterns. Some of the best ones can be found at São Bento railway station, so be sure to check them out.

These impressive pieces of art draw in several tourists from across the globe to witness the sheer mastery of this craft. You’ll spot these mesmerizing tiles sprawled across the city, lining various streets and corners.

View the Beautiful Sé Cathedral

Built in the 12th century, Sé Cathedral is one of Porto’s most important religious buildings. With high ceilings and Baroque-style architecture, it’s one of the most stunning pieces of history preserved in the city. This Porto cathedral was revamped in the 18th century.

The Cloister inside the building is adorned with hand-painted tiles depicting scenes from the Bible. Visiting this historical sanctuary gives you a different perspective and leaves you feeling very spiritual.

Read also: Unmissable Things To Do In Lisbon

Bask in the Glory of Igreja de São Francisco

Starting as a gothic building, Igreja de São Francisco has been continuously maintained to preserve the historical roots of the people.

Once you enter the building, you’ll witness Brazilian woodwork laced with gold leaves and intricate altarpieces in true Baroque fashion. With three naves and the church of São Francisco in the center, this place is still reminiscent of the reign of King D. Fernando.

If you’re not a fan of big crowds, you can take refuge in the catacombs here. They’re spooky yet intriguing and are often overlooked by first-time visitors unless accompanied by a local guide.

Read also: Romantic European Destinations

<p>A municipality in Porto, Gaia, has some of the best cafes serving freshly brewed coffee, restaurants with perfectly seasoned food, delicious wine, and magnificent beaches to kick back and relax. </p><p>If you’re a self-proclaimed wine connoisseur, visiting Nova de Gaia is an absolute must. With cellars stocked with aged wine, you can taste test the boozy beverage here. Some cellars have entire museums inside, and you can even book a wine tour, which includes samples of different alcohols. </p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/hidden-european-gems/">Hidden Gems in Europe</a></p>

Head to Vila Nova de Gaia for Port Wine

A municipality in Porto, Gaia, has some of the best cafes serving freshly brewed coffee, restaurants with perfectly seasoned food, delicious wine, and magnificent beaches to kick back and relax.

If you’re a self-proclaimed wine connoisseur, visiting Nova de Gaia is an absolute must. With cellars stocked with aged wine, you can taste test the boozy beverage here. Some cellars have entire museums inside, and you can even book a wine tour, which includes samples of different alcohols.

Visit the São Bento Train Station

One of Europe’s most beautiful train stations, visiting São Bento is a great way to discover the hidden street art. Beautiful Portuguese tiles highlighting integral parts of the country’s history make it a dream-like place to explore.

Read more: Underrated European Cities

<p>Lello is a famous bookstore lined with an endless amount of books. Since it’s one of the most popular things to do here, there’s a long line every time you visit. You must also get an entry ticket, but it’s refundable once you buy a book.</p><p>For Harry Potter fans, there’s nothing more exciting than a visit to Livraria Lello. The stairway here is known to be the inspiration behind the grand staircase at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series, which makes hoards of fans visit the location.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-cities-with-stunning-architecture/">European Cities With Stunning Architecture</a></p>

Gain New Insights at Livraria Lello

Lello is a famous bookstore lined with an endless amount of books. Since it’s one of the most popular things to do here, there’s a long line every time you visit. You must also get an entry ticket, but it’s refundable once you buy a book.

For Harry Potter fans, there’s nothing more exciting than a visit to Livraria Lello. The stairway here is known to be the inspiration behind the grand staircase at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series, which makes hoards of fans visit the location.

Read also: European Cities With Stunning Architecture

<p>Dating back to the 1700s, Igreja Do Carmo is a stunning piece of architecture. Statues sculpted outside the building give it a classic Baroque feel. </p><p>Inside this religious building, you’ll find seven altars made by the famous sculptor Francisco Pereira Campanha and vibrant oil paintings that enamor the viewer.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-cities-for-history-lovers/">European Cities For History Lovers</a></p>

Explore the Igreja Do Carmo

Dating back to the 1700s, Igreja Do Carmo is a stunning piece of architecture. Statues sculpted outside the building give it a classic Baroque feel.

Inside this religious building, you’ll find seven altars made by the famous sculptor Francisco Pereira Campanha and vibrant oil paintings that enamor the viewer.

Read also: European Cities For History Lovers

<p>Constructed in 1886, Ponte de Dom Luís I is more than just a bridge. When the passage between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia was precarious, this bridge served as a gateway for travel between the two places, making it much more accessible for locals.</p><p>The bridge is designed to catch your eye yet still maintains structural integrity. When you cross it, you can see the hustle and bustle of the city, which makes for a stunning view. People often come up here to take the perfect vacation selfies.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/most-beautiful-european-villages/">Gorgeous European Villages</a></p>

Walk on the Ponte de Dom Luís I

Constructed in 1886, Ponte de Dom Luís I is more than just a bridge. When the passage between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia was precarious, this bridge served as a gateway for travel between the two places, making it much more accessible for locals.

The bridge is designed to catch your eye yet still maintains structural integrity. When you cross it, you can see the hustle and bustle of the city, which makes for a stunning view. People often come up here to take the perfect vacation selfies.

Devour Some Delicious Pastéis de Nata

Pastel de nata is a Portuguese custard tart made with egg, flour, cinnamon, and butter. The gooey egg custard nestled inside a crispy pastry exterior is heavenly and will satisfy your sugar cravings.

Places like Majestic Café, with its romantic ambiance, and Fábrica da Nata serve the best custard tarts you’ll ever eat. Beware, you might buy a dozen and take them home with you.

Seek Out Miradouro Da Vitória

In Portuguese, Miradouro means viewpoint. From this vantage point, you’ll see colorful houses, Dom Luis, the dome of Palacio da Bolsa, and the entire city spanning as far as the eye can see.

If you have a knack for photography or love enjoying scenic views, this is the right place for you.

Read also: Awesome Natural Wonders in Europe

<p>Mercado Do Bolhao is a traditional market in Porto where you can find fresh produce, meat, fish, and flowers. When you visit the location, you’ll see that the place is divided into four separate areas depending on the product. </p><p>To fully immerse yourself in the culture of Porto, visiting this market is essential. Small restaurants serve mouth-watering traditional cuisine and souvenir shops to buy memorabilia for back home. </p><p>Across the place, you’ll find several women selling various products, each marketing their business with something like an outcry known as pregão. This is quite common in the city, but it’s a unique experience for foreigners on a holiday.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/picturesque-european-villages/">Scenic European Villages</a></p>

Shop at Mercado Do Bolhão

Mercado Do Bolhao is a traditional market in Porto where you can find fresh produce, meat, fish, and flowers. When you visit the location, you’ll see that the place is divided into four separate areas depending on the product.

To fully immerse yourself in the culture of Porto, visiting this market is essential. Small restaurants serve mouth-watering traditional cuisine and souvenir shops to buy memorabilia for back home.

Across the place, you’ll find several women selling various products, each marketing their business with something like an outcry known as pregão. This is quite common in the city, but it’s a unique experience for foreigners on a holiday.

Look at Art at Jardim Do Palácio de Cristal

Thick, luscious cypress and olive trees, snow-white magnolias, large fountains, and intricate sculptures are some of the characteristics of this botanical garden. Once you’ve explored the monuments and buildings of the city, taking a picnic basket to Jardim Do Palacio de Cristal is a great way to enjoy a relaxing evening.

The Crystal Palace Garden has beautiful peacocks with divine feathers that you must witness once you’re there.

Read also: European Cities With a Rich Cultural Heritage

<p>The interactive museum of all things football is located on the first floor of Dragão Stadium. With 125 years of history packed in 200 trophies and several in-depth videos, you can take a guided tour of the entire stadium and museum for a small fee. It’s one of the best things to do in Porto.</p><p>If you’re worried about missing out on parts of the tour due to language constraints, you can take earphones with translation to a few languages to aid you along the way.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/fairytale-towns-in-europe/">European Fairytale Towns</a></p>

Go on a Guided Tour at FC Porto Museum & Stadium

The interactive museum of all things football is located on the first floor of Dragão Stadium. With 125 years of history packed in 200 trophies and several in-depth videos, you can take a guided tour of the entire stadium and museum for a small fee. It’s one of the best things to do in Porto.

If you’re worried about missing out on parts of the tour due to language constraints, you can take earphones with translation to a few languages to aid you along the way.

Enjoy the Beauty of Foz Do Douro

Foz Do Douro District has a seafront where visitors often go on romantic walks with a spectacular view of the sandy beaches and bottled green waters. The beaches have been given the blue flag because of their hygienic conditions and cleanliness, which makes this place even more special.

Pergola da Foz stretches across the beach, making it perfect for an intimate spot for you and your partner to enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Read also: Hidden Gems of Southern Europe

<p>Douro Valley is known for its enigmatic vineyards and panoramic views. Located at a 1.5-hour drive from Porto, you’ll see undulating plains lined with greenery, cotton candy clouds covering the sky, and a gorgeous river twisting and turning in the middle. It’s so surreal to visit that you’ll be left speechless as you enjoy the view.</p><p>Whether you choose to use public transport, rent your own car, or take a structured tour with a tour guide, you’ll have a blast.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-city-breaks/">Quick City Getaways in Europe</a></p>

Take a Day Trip to the Douro Valley

Douro Valley is known for its enigmatic vineyards and panoramic views. Located at a 1.5-hour drive from Porto, you’ll see undulating plains lined with greenery, cotton candy clouds covering the sky, and a gorgeous river twisting and turning in the middle. It’s so surreal to visit that you’ll be left speechless as you enjoy the view.

Whether you choose to use public transport, rent your own car, or take a structured tour with a tour guide, you’ll have a blast.

Read also: Quick City Getaways in Europe

<p>This Kefalonia town is a flower-filled Greek delight. It’s enclosed by the azure waters of the Mediterranean on three sides and features a pretty pebble beach. Dipping into the local tavernas for a drink or to enjoy <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-traditional-greek-foods-to-try-in-greece/">delicious Greek food</a> is de rigueur, and Venetian-built Assos Castle is also well worth a look. It is also one of the most <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/landmarks-in-greece/">famous landmarks of Greece</a>.</p><p>Read also:</p><ul> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-greek-islands-for-beaches/">Best Greek Islands for Beaches Ranked</a></li> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-time-to-visit-greece-travel-tips-from-a-local/">Best Time to Visit Greece</a></li> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/day-trips-from-athens/">Best Day Trips from Athens</a></li> </ul>

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these charming European small towns to your bucket list.

Read more: Small Towns in Europe

<p>While the Portuguese capital is popular, it doesn’t have visitor numbers as high as European cities like Paris, <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-things-to-do-in-rome/">Rome</a>, or <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/barcelona-with-kids/">Barcelona</a>. Head to hilly Lisbon by the sea for pastel-painted buildings, historic structures like majestic São Jorge Castle, and a museum packed with ceramic tiles. You’ll also find beautiful beaches outside the city, making them ideal day trip destinations.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read more: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-lisbon/">Best Things To Do in Lisbon</a></p>

Must-Visit European Cities for Your Bucket List

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of must-visit European cities .

Read more: Must-Visit Cities in Europe

<p>Another of Italy’s best-kept secrets is Sirmione. This 13th-century fortress town sits by Lake Garda and is blessed by natural spa waters. It also boasts a magnificent castle, and wandering through the twisting, narrow lanes of the town is a pleasing pastime. </p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/underrated-places-in-the-mediterranean/">Underrated Places in the Mediterranean</a></p>

Hidden European Gems

Explore off-the-beaten-path gems in Europe for a truly authentic experience.

Read more: Hidden Gems in Europe

<p>If you’re seeking cheap breaks, Eastern European cities offer some of the best bargains on the planet! Whether Spain, Greece, and Turkey appeal more, or you’d prefer to head to Bulgaria, Serbia, or Romania, here are the top places to expect to pay low prices. </p>

Best Budget-Friendly European Cities

Stretch your travel budget in these cost-effective European cities .

Read more: Budget-Friendly European Cities

<p>The charms of <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/europe/france/">France</a> are no secret, but you might not know that you can visit the country visa-free as an American. France is home to pristine beaches, freshly baked bread, and several historic buildings that are great for foreigners from abroad. Several vibrant orchards are waiting to be explored in Northern France.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-destinations-for-a-romantic-getaway/">Romantic European Destinations</a></p>

European Cities for a Spring Getaway

Make your spring unforgettable with these European city trips .

Read more: 12 Top Cities in Europe for Spring

<p>Colmar in the Alsace region resembles a village pulled from a dreamy fairy tale with its well-preserved medieval architecture, colorful half-timbered houses, wooden floral boxes, and flower-lined canals. This small town full of Alsatian allure is perfect for any history and art lover who would love to look deeper into medieval architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks. While Colmar already has more than enough for tourists to indulge in, do not miss the boat rides in the “Petite Venise” canals.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/must-visit-european-cities/">Must-Visit European Cities</a></p>

Small Towns Across the Globe That Are Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

Step into a world of beautiful small towns where cobblestone streets lead to timeless wonders.

Read more: Small Towns Out of a Fairy Tale

<p>Get off the beaten path by taking a trip to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. Lovely villages and small towns, seemingly untouched by time, await. The bay by the Adriatic Sea is a UNESCO-listed area and is steeped in maritime heritage.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/underrated-places-in-the-mediterranean/">Underrated Places in the Mediterranean</a></p>

Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Make your travel dreams come true with these wonderfully unique places in Europe .

<p>No visit to Paris is complete without ascending to the top of the Eiffel Tower – especially if this is your first visit. Whether you choose to admire it from the ground or venture up to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see.</p><p>The Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, stands at 300 meters and was designed by Gustave Eiffel for the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) of 1889. It welcomes nearly seven million visitors annually.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/european-destinations-for-a-romantic-getaway/">Best Romantic European Destinations</a></p>

Paris, the City of Lights

Experience the top things to do in Paris with our guide to top attractions and activities.

Read more: Unmissable Things To Do in Paris

<p><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-things-to-do-in-rome/">Rome</a> lets you travel back to the times of gladiators and emperors!</p><ul> <li><strong>Colosseum:</strong> The place where gladiators battled.</li> <li><strong>Pasta:</strong> Eat yummy spaghetti and pizza in its homeland.</li> <li><strong>Trevi Fountain:</strong> Toss a coin and make a wish!</li> </ul><ul> <li>Read more: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-things-to-do-in-rome/">Top Activities in Rome</a></li> </ul>

Explore Ancient Wonders in Rome, Italy

Rome lets you travel back to the times of gladiators and emperors!

Colosseum: The place where gladiators battled.
Pasta: Eat yummy spaghetti and pizza in its homeland.
Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin and make a wish!
Read more: Top Activities in Rome

<p><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-lisbon/">Lisbon</a> invites you to a world of history and exploration.</p><ul> <li><strong>Tram 28:</strong> Ride this yellow tram up and down the city’s hills.</li> <li><strong>Tile Art:</strong> See buildings decorated with colorful ceramic tiles.</li> <li><strong>Bacalhau:</strong> A tasty fish dish loved by locals.</li> </ul><p>Discover <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-lisbon/">Lisbon’s top experiences</a> with our ultimate travel guide.</p><p>Read also:</p><ul> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-lisbon/">Unmissable Things to Do in Lisbon</a></li> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/where-to-stay-in-lisbon/">Where to Stay in Lisbon – Best Neighborhoods and Hotels</a></li> </ul>

Unmissable Things to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon invites you to a world of history and exploration.

Tram 28: Ride this yellow tram up and down the city’s hills.
Tile Art: See buildings decorated with colorful ceramic tiles.
Bacalhau: A tasty fish dish loved by locals.

Discover Lisbon’s top experiences with our ultimate travel guide.

Where to Stay in Lisbon – Best Neighborhoods and Hotels

<p>This Italian city is all about architecture and cultural experiences. If you’re short on time, Verona will deliver an eventful time. The Coliseum hosts Shakespearean performances and opera for curious visitors.</p><p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Read also: <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/best-things-to-do-in-rome/">Unmissable Things To Do in Rome</a></p>

Underrated European Cities

Ditch crowds and explore the top underrated European cities .

<ul> <li><strong>Grand-Place:</strong> A big square surrounded by gold-decorated buildings.</li> <li><strong>Belgian Waffles:</strong> Eat these sweet treats with chocolate and strawberries.</li> <li><strong>Comic Book Route:</strong> Spot giant murals of famous comic characters on walls.</li> </ul><p>Discover the <a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-brussels/">top activities in Brussels</a>, offering a mix of cultural sights, culinary delights, and hidden corners to explore.</p><ul> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/things-to-do-in-brussels/">Best Things to Do in Brussels</a></li> <li><a href="https://worldwildschooling.com/brussels-with-kids-best-things-to-do-where-to-stay/">Best Things to Do in Brussels With Kids</a></li> </ul>

Enjoy Waffles and Comics in Brussels, Belgium

Grand-Place: A big square surrounded by gold-decorated buildings.
Belgian Waffles: Eat these sweet treats with chocolate and strawberries.
Comic Book Route: Spot giant murals of famous comic characters on walls.

Discover the top activities in Brussels , offering a mix of cultural sights, culinary delights, and hidden corners to explore.

Best Things to Do in Brussels
Best Things to Do in Brussels With Kids

Read the original thread on 18 Best Things To Do in Porto .

This article was produced and syndicated by World Wild Schooling .

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Portugal in March; a guide for Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve

March is a very good month to visit Portugal. The country is just coming out of the grey winter months, and there are amazing deals on accommodation and flights.

A holiday to Portugal in March should be focused on the south or central region of the country, where the weather will tend to be better. March is also a fantastic month for a city break to Lisbon, with the main tourist attractions crowd-free and a more relaxed ambience about the city.

The Algarve (the southern coastline of Portugal) will always have the best weather of Portugal, with bright sunny days reaching an agreeable 19C. The weather is pleasant, but is slightly to cool for sunbathing or lounging by a pool. This is a great month for an activity-based holiday in the Algarve, such as cycling, hiking or golf.

March is ideal for a touring holiday, and an enjoyable route is the far eastern side of Portugal, with its fortified towns and spring blossom. A second route could visit the traditional towns and villages of the Algarve region.

The island of Madeira could also be visited in March, and this is the start of the flowering season. March is regarded as the low season, but the Gulf Stream keeps the island warm (max 22C), and any rain tends to fall on the northwestern side of the island, away from the main tourist area.

A typical day in the Algarve in March; bright pleasant weather and near deserted resort towns and beaches – the image is of Praia da Rocha

The weather of Portugal in March

Being at the south of Europe, Portugal is one of the first European countries to escape the cool winter weather. In March the temperatures are increasing, and there can be long periods of good weather, but there is always the risk of rain.

Portugal has three distinct weather regions during March; the sunny and pleasant Algarve region, the cooler and wet north (Porto and Douro Valley), and variable central region (Lisbon)

Insight: March tends to have less rain than April. If you are thinking about a holiday to Lisbon or the central region, we would suggest visiting in mid-March rather than April. The Algarve is comparatively dry for both months

A visit to pretty Obidos in March will be free of the summertime crowds

Suggested itineraries for Portugal in March

March may be the low season, but there are many good reasons to visit Portugal during this time of the year. The main tourist attractions will be almost deserted, there are outstanding deals to be found on accommodation, and the resort towns have a relaxed atmosphere.

Our suggested tours in March of Portugal include: 1) Lisbon to Porto. Two days in Lisbon, Sintra day trip, the central region for two days (Nazare, Obidos, Tomar and Coimbra) and two days in Porto 2) Tour of The Algarve. One night in Faro, two in Tavira, two nights in Albufeira and three in Lagos. 3) Lisbon and the Algarve. Three days Lisbon, then four days relaxing at Albufeira or Lagos. 4) 1 week in Lisbon. Three days exploring Lisbon and day trips to Sintra, Setubal, Cascais, Evora and Obidos. 5) Castles and forts of Eastern Portugal. Evora, Elvas, Marvão, Castelo Branco, Monsanto, Almeida, Trancoso (this route needs a car) 6) Madeira – one week based in Funchal with day trips around the island when the weather is dry. Advice: If you are considering the tours that include Lisbon and Porto, make sure that your plans are flexible in case there is poor weather.

Below is an interactive map the showing the suggested tours and best locations in Portugal for March. The yellow line is the Lisbon to Porto tour (1) , the red line is the tour of the Algarve (2) , the green line is the 1 week in Lisbon (4) , the , and the blue line is the route visiting the east of Portugal (5) .

Insight: Portugal is a relatively small country and has an excellent express train network. It takes only 2.5 hours to travel from Lisbon to the Algarve if the weather deteriorates, or 3 hours from Lisbon to Porto if there is a spell of sunny weather. Flexible plans are the best method to get the most from a holiday to Portugal during March.

Lisbon in March

Lisbon is an excellent choice for a city break during March. The city offers a huge variety of sights and activities, along with many in-door activities if the weather is inclement.

If it is sunny, head to the magical town of Sintra with the whimsical Pena Palace and the ruins of the Moors castle . If the weather is good head to the characterful resort town of Cascais or the traditional beach town of Sesimbra .

If the sun shines head to the Pena palace

If it does rain, there is the wonderous oceanarium, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Calouste Gulbenkian art museum or a ride on the number 28 tram. If it stays wet, head to the artisan area of Lxfacory, then taste Portugal’s finest foods in the Timeout Market, before ending the day in trendy underground bars of the Bairro Alto district.

In the low season, there will be no queues for the major tourist attractions and your experience won’t be ruined coach loads of tourists. Lisbon is fantastic in March, and is our recommended destination. Related articles: Our Lisbon guide

The Algarve in March

The Algarve is great destination in March, so long as that you accept that the resort towns will be very quiet, and the beaches are not warm enough for all-day sunbathing.

The bars and restaurants that closed for the winter season tends to open for Easter, so in March many of these venues will be still closed.

Our advice is to stick to the larger resort towns, such as Albufeira , Lagos , or Vilamoura , which have large permanent populations and will have a decent selection of restaurant and bars open. To experience some Portuguese culture in your holiday, consider adding the charming town of Tavira and the city of Faro to your trip.

The early spring is the ideal season to explore the traditional villages of the Algarve coastline

March is the time to find a bargain hotel; search the hotel comparison websites to find last minute 5-star luxury for the price of 3-star mediocre. We would strongly advise hiring a car so that you can explore the region, and are not just tied to your deserted hotel complex or quiet town.

Some good ideas for activities in March include the stunning Praia do Vale de Centeanes hiking trail, a coastline boat tour from Albufeira or Vilamoura, cycling the quiet roads around Burgau or Tavira.

March is a popular season for golfing holidays in the Algarve, the weather is bright and dry but without the intense summer heat. Vilamoura is always a good base for a golfing holiday.

Porto in March

Porto is difficult to predict, as the weather could be good, or it can be very wet. If it is wet, the city has significantly less indoor activities and sights than Lisbon. The main unique in-door experience is Port tasting in the vast cellars that line the banks of Douro river, and with over 14 different cellars there’s a lot of Porto tasting!

If the weather is dry head to the pretty city of Guimarães, which is regarded as the birthplace of Portugal, or hire a car and explore the picturesque Douro Valley.

Our advice: If you are thinking about visiting Porto in March, leave the planning to the last minute, and base your decision on the long-term weather forecast. If it seems wet, head to Lisbon or the Algarve, if its dry book Porto and get yourself a bargain holiday. Related articles: Guide to Porto

The Ponte Luís I in Porto, crossing the Douro River

Discover more of Portugal with our guides

Top 10 Portugal

Which are the best 10 towns and cities in Portugal?

Suggested itineraries for a week holiday and tour of Portugal

Discover the finest beaches in Portugal

Portugal weather

When is the best time of year to visit Portugal?

The vibrant and dynamic capital of Portugal

Historic districts and port wine tasting in Portugal’s second city

History, beaches, and nightlife - Lagos is rightful popular!

The most charming town of the eastern Algarve

The religious centre of Portugal and likeable city

Extravagant palaces, opulent villas, and stunning scenery

Delightful beach town, which is a favourite with the Portuguese

The classic Portuguese walled town, owned by the Queen of Portugal

V ila Nova de Milfontes

Authentic Portugal on the undiscovered Alentejo coastline

Experience true Portugal in this busy fishing port

A charming town, famed for the world’s highest surfing waves

Viana do Castelo

The charismatic and undiscovered north of Portugal

The finest resort town of the Lisbon coastline

The ancient stronghold of the Knights Templar

The capital of the Alentejo region is steeped in history

The largest and liveliest resort town of the Algarve

The birthplace of Portugal and pretty city

A complete list of all of our guides to Portugal

Tomar Introduction
Things to see in Tomar
Lisbon to Tomar
Obidos Introduction
Things to See in Obidos
Obidos day trip
Lisbon to Obidos
Evora Introduction
Evora Things to See
Day Trip to Evora
Lisbon to Evora
Capela dos Ossos
Evora or Sintra?
The Alentejo region
Fatima introduction
Lisbon to Fatima
Mafra Introduction
Lisbon to Mafra
Ericeira introduction
Lisbon to Ericeira
Ericeira beaches

Central Portugal

Alcobaça monastery
N2 road tour
São Martinho do Porto

Portugal Guides

Where to go in Portugal
1 week in Portugal
A weekend in Portugal
When to visit?
Portugal's best beaches
Portugal airports
Portugal for families
Lisbon to Porto tour
Where to live in Portugal
Portugal in January
Portugal in February
Portugal in March
Portugal in June
Portugal in July
Portugal in August
Portugal in September
Portugal in November
Portugal in December
Portugal in the winter
Sintra introduction
Sights of Sintra
Day trip to Sintra
Lisbon to Sintra
Sintra beaches
Sintra tourist bus 434
Palacio da Pena
Palácio de Monserrate
Quinta da Regaleira
Parque da Pena
Castelo dos Mouros
Cascais introduction
Day trip to Cascais
Cascais beach guide
Cascais sights
Cabo da Roca
Lisbon to Cascais
Sesimbra intorduction
Sesimbra sights
Sesimbra's beaches
Lisbon to Sesimbra
Cabo Espichel
Setubal introduction
Setubal sights
Day trip to Setubal
Setubal's beaches

Serra da Arrabida

Peninsula de Troia

Near Lisbon

Costa da Caparica

Fonte da Telha
Lagoa de Albufeira
Praia das Macas

Lisbon Guides

Lisbon introduction
Lisbon top 10
Secret Lisbon
Lisbon beach guide
24 hours in Lisbon
48 hours in Lisbon
3 days in Lisbon
Lisbon in 5 Days
1 Week Lisbon
Lisbon day trips
Where to stay?
Lisbon shopping
Lisbon Parks
Lisbon on a wet day
Museums and galleries
Alfama District
Baixa District
Belem District
Parque Nações
Alcântara District
Graça District
Cais do Sodre
Lisbon airport
Lisbon Metro
Castelo de São Jorge
Elevador Santa Justa
Torre de Belem
Elevador da Bica
Elevador do Lavra
Elevador da Gloria
Praça do Comercio
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Lisbon Viewpoints
Miradouro da Graça
Sao Pedro de alcantara
Senhora do Monte
Lisbon to Belem transport
Costa da Caparica Portugal
Lisbon at Christmas
Santos Populares
Lisbon for Families
Lisbon for Seniors
Cristo Rei Christ
Lisbon Markets
Ponte 25 de Abril
Príncipe Real
Free Lisbon
Is Lisbon Walkable
Lisbon Budget
Driving in Lisbon
From the airport
To Cristo Rei
Lisbon to Porto
Lisbon tram guide
Lisbon Ferrys

Other Destinations

Albufeira Alvor Aveiro Braga Faro Guimarães Lagos Madeira Porto Praia da Luz Praia da Rocha Sagres Silves Tavira Vilamoura Viana do Castelo

Stunning mountains and picturesque beaches south of Lisbon

Lively resort town and 13km of golden sands

Important pilgrimage site where Mary appeared to three shepherds

Magnificent monastery and site of Portugal’s most important battle

Trendy surfing town set along a beautiful coastline

Traditional fishing port surrounded by magnificent beaches

Heavily fortified town on the Spanish border

Paradise beaches and the secluded hideaway of millionaires

Wild and windswept islands, a refuge to seabirds and sea life

Sophisticated beach resort along the beautiful Lisbon coastline

COMMENTS

Portugal in April: Weather, What to Expect & Tips
Spring is a shoulder season and is a great time to visit! In April, average daytime temperatures in Portugal are around 18-20°C (65-68°F). Rain isn't uncommon, but mostly, you can expect beautiful sunny skies. Sometimes temperatures rise to summer-like 25°C (77°F), which is almost too warm for exploring the cities.
Portugal Weather in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
There are good beaches near Lisbon. Ericeira that is about 35 minutes away by vehicle has about the best surf in Portugal in April. The sea temperature is about 16°C (60°F) or lower, so you will need a wetsuit for comfort. 2. Eastern Alentejo — Get Away to the Beauty of Spring.
Portugal in April: A Country in Bloom
April 10 is Good Friday, and Easter Sunday is on April 12. Easter is observed in Portugal, but supermarkets in cities will still be open on these days. April 25 is a national holiday every year and is known as Día da Liberdade (Freedom Day). It commemorates the 1974 Carnation Revolution that ended the dictatorship.
Portugal in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Where to Go. April is a fabulous month to slow tour Portugal. The Algarve in the south is now bursting with wildflowers and this is wonderful time to go hiking along its ravishing cliff-backed, gold-sanded coastline, or to take a road trip through its hilly, cork oak-wooded interior, stopping at little villages en route. The blissfully peaceful Alentejo is a great alternative for a trip ...
11 best places to visit in Portugal
Start planning your itinerary now with our 11 favorite places to visit in Portugal. 1. Lisbon. Best for nightlife. Seven iconic hills overlook Lisbon 's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, white-domed cathedrals and grand civic squares - a captivating scene crafted over centuries.
Portugal in April: Weather, Things to do, Best tips and more!
Coming to average sea temperatures, the mercury was recorded at an average of 16 degrees Celsius with low humidity to go with it. Speaking in terms of numbers, the humidity ranges from the low 50s to just over 90%. Moving onto rainfall - travellers can expect an average rainfall of 64 mm for over 11 rainy days in total.
Visiting the Algarve in April
Reasons to visit the Algarve in April. The bars, restaurants, and resorts down by the coast are starting to swing into action but aren't too crowded. Hotel prices are still low, even for those travelling during the Easter Break. Some hotels will be 50% what they would cost in July and August. The weather is warm and sunny but not scorching ...
Portugal in April: Weather, Tips and More I Bookmundi
As Easter approaches, the weather gets warmer. Porto, situated in the north, is still a tad bit cooler, with days averaging at 18°C and nights dipping down to 9°C. With around nine days of rainfall, Porto is also wetter than Lisbon or the Algarve in April. The Algarve is pretty pleasant with days averaging 16 to 20°C, while temperatures on ...
The best time to visit Portugal
The high season - June to August - is the best time for the beach. Early summer is one of the liveliest times to visit Portugal, as the festival calendar is packed. Warm, sunny days are the norm, and while tourism picks up, the hordes have yet to arrive, particularly in the first half of June. During the summer months, you'll also find ...
Algarve in April: 15 Fun Things To Do!
10. Wellness and Relaxation. The beautiful and peaceful sunsets, perfect Algarve weather for April, and fresh sea breeze are enough to recharge your inner wellness. But if you're looking for a more pampering vacation, use a thermal spa (freshwater treatment), and thalassotherapy (salt water treatment).
The Most Beautiful Places in Portugal, From Douro Valley Vineyards to
Here are the 15 most beautiful places in Portugal that are worth every mile in between. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors.
The Algarve in April and what it's like
In fact, April often boasts significantly warmer temperatures. With an average of around 19 degrees Celsius, daytime temperatures can easily soar into the mid-twenties or even exceed 25 degrees Celsius. Although mornings and evenings can be slightly chilly, the midday and afternoon hours beckon beach enthusiasts with inviting warmth.
28 Unforgettable Things to Do in Portugal: The Ultimate List
Cruise the Douro River in Porto. Take a day trip to the splendid Pena Palace. Listen to Fado music in Chiado, one of the best things to do in Portugal for local culture. Tour one of the world's oldest universities in Coimbra. Take a stroll in the enchanting Bucaco National Forest. Drink Port wine in the Douro Valley.
Lisbon in April: 14 Fun Things to See, Do & Eat
Based on my experience, I think April is a great time of year to visit Lisbon, as the weather is starting to get warm and sunny, and the tourist crowds have not yet arrived in full force. The average temperature in April is 18°C (64°F), with highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F).
15 Things to Do in Albufeira in April
Hiking and nature walks to explore the beauty of Coelha Beach Trail and Sesmarias-Guia-Silves are also not something to miss. Book a cave tour in Albufeira. 6. Festivals and Events. When visiting the city of Albufeira, the FIESA Sand Sculpture Festival is one highlight during April.
19 Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Saint George's Castle or Castelo de São Jorge in the Alfama neighborhood of Lisbon is the number one tourist attraction in Portugal. The castle receives over 2 million visitors every year. This popular attraction is open all year round and costs $10 depending on the current exchange rate.
1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon. This 1-Week Itinerary in Portugal starts in the capital of Lisbon. Many cities around the world fly directly to Lisbon. You can fly directly to Lisbon from many US airports, including Miami, Boston, Washington, San Francisco, and New York. One of the oldest cities in western Europe, Lisbon has seen a boom in tourism due ...
Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal
7. Sintra. Located in a privileged position in the foothills of Portugal's Sintra Mountains, near Lisbon's capital, it's said to be one of Lord Byron's favourite Portuguese haunts. It's an exceptional village and easily one of the top-rated attractions in Portugal.
10 Amazing Places To Visit In Portugal This Spring
3 Faro. The Algarve is Portugal's southernmost region, and Faro is its capital. While this is where a lot of flights fly in besides Lisbon, few stay behind for more than a few hours to explore Faro, which is a shame. With the old town charm of a city lined with cobbled paths and medieval walls that open up to a Marina, Faro's streets are filled ...
Portugal Itinerary: Complete 2-Week Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Its wild, rugged coastline, imposing mountains, beautiful whitewashed villages, and enchanting cities make Portugal one of the best destinations to visit in Europe.Dive deep into the Portuguese history in Porto, surf the great waters of the southern Algarve, or lazily stroll through the pretty streets of Obidos.There are lots of amazing things to do in Portugal - make your way around the ...
18 Best Things To Do in Porto, Portugal
With so many exciting places to visit, figuring out the best things to do in Porto can be confusing. But don't worry; our travel guide to exploring Portugal's second-largest city will provide ...
Portugal in March; a guide for Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve
Insight: Portugal is a relatively small country and has an excellent express train network. It takes only 2.5 hours to travel from Lisbon to the Algarve if the weather deteriorates, or 3 hours from Lisbon to Porto if there is a spell of sunny weather. Flexible plans are the best method to get the most from a holiday to Portugal during March.