Portugal

Portugal is one of the best value countries in Western Europe and it’s stunning. Great food, beautiful beaches, historic cities, and sunshine most of the year. It’s gotten more popular lately but still feels more relaxed than Spain next door.

Lisbon is hilly, colorful, and charming. Tram 28 through old neighborhoods is touristy but fun. Alfama is the old Moorish quarter with narrow streets and fado music at night. Belem has the tower and monastery. Pasteis de nata custard tarts are everywhere and addictive. The nightlife in Bairro Alto is great. The city has amazing viewpoints called miradouros.

Porto up north is smaller and more authentic feeling. The Douro River, the bridges, the port wine cellars. The old town is beautiful and less crowded than Lisbon. The food scene is excellent. Francesinha sandwich is a heart attack but delicious. Day trips to the Douro Valley for wine are stunning.

The Algarve down south has the best beaches. Lagos is the backpacker hub with cliffs and caves. Tavira is quieter and prettier. The coast gets busy in summer but shoulder season is perfect. Water is colder than Mediterranean but still swimmable.

Sintra near Lisbon has colorful palaces on hills. Pena Palace looks like a Disney castle. Gets slammed with day trippers so go early. The coast there has dramatic cliffs. Evora inland has Roman ruins and a bone chapel.

Getting around means trains and buses between cities. Both work well and are cheap. Lisbon and Porto have good trams and metro. Rent a car for Algarve beaches or Douro Valley.

Money goes far compared to most of Western Europe. Meals are affordable, wine is cheap, accommodation is reasonable. Cards work everywhere now.

Best time is April to October. Summer is hot and crowded. Spring and fall are perfect.