8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Portugal At Least Once In Your Life

If you’re looking for a fantastic travel destination that offers something for everyone, look no further than Portugal. This stunning country is home to beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich history and culture that fascinate and delight you. Here are eight reasons why you should visit Portugal at least once in your life.

Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure.

Scenic Beaches

Portugal is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. From the stunning cliffs of the Algarve to the long stretches of sand in Lisbon, there is something for everyone. And, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, you’re sure to enjoy plenty of time basking in the sun.

Whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy the many water sports available, Portugal’s beaches are sure to please. Consider renting a beach house or villa to make the most of your time. This will give you a private place to relax and access all the amenities you need, such as a kitchen and laundry facilities.

Exciting Cities

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Portugal is also home to some vibrant cities. Lisbon, the capital, is a must-see. This vibrant city is filled with interesting architecture, museums, and restaurants. Be sure to ride the iconic tram 28 and enjoy a view of the city from one of its many hills.

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, consider Porto. This charming city is known for its port wine and picturesque bridges. You can also take a boat ride along the Douro River or visit one of the many museums and art galleries.

Family-Friendly Environments

Portugal is an excellent choice for a family vacation. The country offers many family-friendly environments, such as the Algarve region, which is well-known for its beautiful beaches and friendly atmosphere. There are also plenty of activities to keep everyone in the family entertained, such as golf, tennis, horseback riding, and hiking.

What you need to do is book early so that you can have your pick of the best accommodations. You can easily do this online. This gives you a chance to get the best deal and find a place that meets all your family’s needs.

Besides, if you decide to live in this country, the immigration process is not that complicated. You can even get a Portuguese passport, which gives you visa-free travel to Schengen countries. When planning to get a golden visa Portugal 2022, think of what city you want to live in. The good news is that there are plenty of options, and you can find the perfect place for your family. You need to make plans on a real estate investment and consult an expert on the Portuguese golden visa requirements.

Affordable Accommodations and Dining

On every trip, there is always a balance of how much you spend on accommodation and food. Portugal is an excellent choice for budget-minded travelers as it offers many affordable options. There are plenty of hostels and budget hotels throughout the country, so finding a place to stay won’t be difficult.

When it comes to dining, Portuguese cuisine is delicious and relatively inexpensive. Be sure to try some of the country’s traditional dishes, such as bacalhau (codfish), Caldo Verde (green soup), and francesinha (a sandwich). And, of course, don’t forget to enjoy a glass or two of the local port wine.

Historical Sites

Portugal is a country with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Some of the most popular include the Castle of São Jorge, a medieval castle in Lisbon, and the Convent of Christ, a former monastery in Tomar.

If you’re interested in learning more about the country’s history, consider taking a walking tour or visiting one of the many museums. You can also learn about Portugal’s age of exploration by visiting the Jerónimos Monastery, which was built to honor Vasco da Gama, the explorer who led the first expedition to India.

Outdoor Adventures

There are many hiking and biking trails throughout the country and several national parks. Peneda-Gerês National Park is a trendy choice, as it offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife.

If you’re looking for a more extreme adventure, consider surfing in one of Portugal’s many surf spots. Or, if you prefer something a bit more relaxed, consider taking a kayak or stand-up paddleboard out on one of the country’s many rivers or lakes.

To enjoy your recreational activities more, consider purchasing all the necessary equipment. For instance, if you plan surfing, you will need a good quality wetsuit. You can find a wide range of wetsuits online, so research before purchasing.

Beautiful Architecture

Portugal is a country with a rich history and culture, and this is reflected in its architecture. There is plenty to see and admire, from medieval castles to colorful azulejo tiles. Add a few of Portugal’s architectural wonders to your must-see lists, such as the Belém Tower, the Palace of Queluz, and the São Bento Railway Station.

If you love photography, you’ll want to add Portugal to your list of places to visit. With its beautiful scenery, interesting architecture, and friendly people, there is no shortage of photo ops. So, pack your camera and get ready to explore all that Portugal has to offer.

Friendly Locals

In addition to its many attractions, one of the best things about Portugal is its people. The locals are known for being friendly and welcoming, so don’t hesitate to initiate a conversation. You may even find that you have more in common with them than you think.

You can learn some basic Portuguese phrases before your trip, but don’t worry if you don’t know the language. Many Portuguese people speak English, so you should be able to get by without problems.

If looking for ways to socialize more, target the many events and festivals throughout the year. Attending one of these is a great way to meet new people and experience the country’s culture.

Portugal is a beautiful country with plenty to offer visitors. From its stunning beaches and historical sites to its friendly locals and delicious food, there is something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a place to travel, add Portugal to your list. Consider making plans to visit soon, and you will have an unforgettable experience.

Subscribe to Our 'Under the Radar' Newsletter
If you love travel, you're gonna love this!