21 Compelling Reasons to Explore Portugal This Year

Why Visit Portugal

Portugal is a country where you can spend the morning surfing awesome waves and the afternoon skiing down snowy slopes. Plus, it is a place that is home to hundreds of award-winning wines.

With centuries-old cities and castles, Portugal is a country where you can hike up a 7,000ft tall peak and experience one of the world’s best-kept culinary secrets. If you’re not convinced yet, here are 16 compelling reasons to visit Portugal.

1. The Architecture

Portugal’s architecture is a rich tapestry of history, culture, innovation, and beauty. Several elements make it distinct and special:

• Manueline Style: Unique to Portugal, this style is characterized by intricate motifs incorporating maritime elements.
• Moorish Influence: Reflects in arched windows, doorways, and decorative tilework.
• Azulejos: Hand-painted tiles often adorned with intricate patterns.
• Pombaline Style: An innovative architectural style post the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.

2. The Picturesque Town of Sintra

If you like your fairytales real, you’ll absolutely love Sintra. Quaint narrow alleyways, picturesque façades, and glamorous palaces and gardens are just a few things that make Sintra enchanting.

Located just 45 minutes from Lisbon, Sintra attracts tourists with its rich history and culture, reflected in ancient castles and palaces such as the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.

3. Too Many Ancient Castles to Count

Portugal has had the same borders since the 11^th century, making it one of Europe’s oldest countries. Roam through castles and historical sites preserved beautifully across the land.

Guimarães is where Portugal’s first king was born, and the views from Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon are breathtaking.

4. The Santos Festivities

Every June, towns and cities in Portugal come alive with festivities celebrating Catholic saints. Expect parades, weddings, traditional street dances, and fresh sardines in abundance.

5. In Fact, All Festivals

The Portuguese love their festivals, celebrating many saints throughout the year with music, parades, and delicious food.

In Tomar, locals parade with trays decorated with flowers during Festa dos Tabuleiros. Additionally, Cabo Verdeans celebrate Carnaval with impressive parades in Torres Vedras.

6. Gorgeous Beaches and Incredible Coastlines

Portugal boasts over 100 beaches along its stunning west coast. Famous beaches such as Comporta and Figueirinha offer breathtaking views and romantic sunsets.

7. The Award-Winning Wine

Portugal’s Douro Valley is the birthplace of Port wine, renowned for its sweet flavors. The country also delights with Vinho Verde, a young, light, and effervescent wine.

8. Portugal Inspired J.K. Rowling – and It Will Inspire You Too

True Harry Potter fans know that J.K. Rowling found inspiration in Portugal while writing the series, particularly in Porto, where she frequented Café Majestic.

9. The Great Outdoors

Portugal offers diverse outdoor activities, from surfing in Ericeira to skiing in Serra da Estrela. The Azores also provide stunning hiking opportunities amidst natural beauty.

10. One Word: Fado

To truly understand Portuguese culture, visit a Fado house and immerse yourself in this soulful music.

11. A Gondola Ride, Just Like Venice in Portugal

In Aveiro, experience picturesque canals similar to Venice on a relaxing gondola ride.

12. Adventures on Madeira

The Madeira Islands, with their lush forests and scenic cliffs, offer a paradise for nature lovers. Enjoy local specialties like grilled limpets and Madeira wine.

13. You’ll Love Portuguese Beer

Beer has a rich history in Portugal, and a friendly rivalry exists between major breweries. Sample both and see which you prefer.

14. The Nightlife Lasts Until Morning

The Portuguese know how to party, offering vibrant nightlife options from street bars in Bairro Alto to exclusive nightclubs in Vilamoura.

15. The Instagram-Ready Design

The picturesque tiles and stunning façades create an Instagram-worthy experience throughout the country.

16. Portugal is Just So Cheap

Portugal is frequently cited as one of the best budget destinations in Europe, providing history and charm at an affordable price.

17. Landscapes of the Algarve

The Algarve, with its golden cliffs and azure waters, invites you to explore its stunning beaches and rich culture.

18. The Incredible Azores

The Azores archipelago features volcanic islands with breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant Azorean culture that is captivating.

19. The Mouthwatering Pastéis de Nata

The pastéis de nata (custard tarts) are among Portugal’s finest culinary delights, best enjoyed in Lisbon.

20. The Food

Portuguese cuisine is a delightful blend of land and sea, with bacalhau (codfish) holding a special place in the hearts of locals.

21. The Amazing People

The warmth and generosity of the Portuguese people set the country apart, ensuring that visitors feel welcomed and cherished.

How to Get to Portugal

Getting to Portugal primarily depends on your starting location, with flying being the most common option for international travelers.

By Air:

• Main Airports:
  • Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) – The busiest airport serving major airlines worldwide.
  • Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) – A key airport for northern Portugal.
  • Faro Airport (FAO) – The main entry point for southern beaches.
  • Madeira and Azores Airports: For direct access to the islands.

Plan Your Next Portugal Trip With Our Advice

Explore the rich experiences that await you in Portugal!

Looking to travel cheaply? Here are some resources to help you plan your trip!