Portugal
LEGACY OF “NAVEGANTES”
DESTINATION
Travel to Portugal
Portugal is a country full of history and also among the oldest from Europe. This tiny nation is full of charm for the tourists. Every part of the country has its own attractions, so discovering the best place to visit in Portugal depends mainly on your interests.
Some attractions when visiting Portugal
Among the numerous highlights that you can find in this small Iberian country there are some beautiful golden beaches, plenty of history, huge mountainous parks and a few delightful river valleys.
For example, the charming city of Tomar is known for the Knights Templar because they had their headquarters here during the 12th century. The good thing is that you can still find relics from that time, like the Convento de Cristo which was built with the approval of Afonso Henriques, Portugal´s first king.
Another good spot is the Azores: the perfect destination for nature lovers who get here. This Archipelago is situated exactly in the halfway between The Americas and Europe. It has 9 exclusive islands, each one with different things to do. Here you can: visit the islands, explore some caves, relax, swim with dolphins or even watch some whales.
Besides, the Algar do Carvao is one place you need to have on your list, and you can find this amazing lava cave on Terceira Island. It´s very special because the only other place that resembles it is 1899 miles away in Iceland.
Portugal inspired J.K. Rowling so it can inspire you too
The Portuguese people prefer Minho, which is a flourishing region with vineyard-topped valleys, a few mountainous wilds, along with isolated beaches and attractive river towns that almost haven´t changed in time. The entry point to this spectacular region is Braga, where you can find Roman ruins, an amazing medieval cathedral and several flower-trimmed plazas with cafes and restaurants here and there.
Another interesting place to see when visiting Portugal is Sortelha. We are talking about a small historic city that has a magnificent medieval castle placed in Central Portugal near the Spanish border.
It is also one of the oldest cities from Portugal. This city is one of those magical places where history left its mark for a long time and it looks like pulled out straight from a dream.
If you are looking for something more, maybe Elvas is a good idea. This city is placed in the most Eastern part of Portugal, near the border with Spain and it is known because for hundreds of years it has been the reason for a conflict between Spain and Portugal.
Other interesting places to visit in Portugal
However we look at it, Portugal is a great destination at any time of year.
But if all of the above is not enough, here are some more cool destinations:
Come to Portugal
Set down on the Atlantic on the far border of Europe, Portugal maintains a salty, traditional culture. In this small country fishermen still mend their nets, and rustically adorned women sell fish and other products in markets. But together with the old, you’ll also find the modern, especially in the capital of Lisbon and in Porto.
If you are looking for a good travel destination, a rich culture, some affordable prices, maybe a thriving urban scene, small seaside resort towns, an exotic architecture, a few windswept castles, and also fresh seafood to pair with chilled wine on a beach at sunset… Portugal is the right place.
Portugal: At least Once in a Lifetime
Portugal is a tourist center that despite its size counts with some diverse culinary delights, a rich cultural heritage, and a lot of fascinating landscapes from one city to another.
Northern Portugal is the older part of this country and it inspires tourists due to its cultural and historical sites, the areas that have some amazing natural beauty, and of course for its plenty culinary traditions.
Starting with the dramatic natural scenery of the Peneda-Gerês National Park, passing through the Douro Valley’s fascinating winemaking traditions and getting to Porto’s cultural treasures, the Northern region has a lot to offer for different tastes.
OUR EXPERIENCES FOR A TRIP TO NORTHERN PORTUGAL REGION
Portugal is placed on the Iberian Peninsula and, although it´s small, this country is a tourist paradise due to its delicious gastronomy, rich cultural history, and affordable travel costs. It´s capital – Lisbon – is one of the most popular and visited cities in the region and if you get here, it will be easy to understand why.
With its temperate climate, many hours of sunshine a year and more than 850 kilometers of impressive beaches by the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is one of the best holiday destinations in Europe.
OUR EXPERIENCES FOR A TRIP TO LISBON AND CENTER REGION
Portugal´s most Southern region is famous for its pronounced limestone cliffs, for the fresh seafood, and also for the white-washed fishing villages around here. Considering that it has more than 100 beaches, Algarve is a top-level beach holiday destination especially in the summer. Besides, in spring and fall, this area is the ideal place for coastal walking.
With its splendid beaches and with its hot, sunny weather, the Algarve is Portugal’s most popular holiday landing place. Starting with bustling seaside resorts filled with activity and getting to the quiet stretches of sand that are perfect for relaxation, the most Southern region of Portugal is the perfect place for anyone who is planning a beach vacation. Besides, the Algarve’s inland villages are some captivating places to visit as well.
OUR EXPERIENCES FOR A TRIP TO THE ALGARVE AND SOUTH REGION
ENJOY THE WHOLE PROCESS OF CREATING YOUR TRIP
How do we do it?
01.
Tell us about your dream holidays!
Contact us by filling out the travel request form, via email or by phone. We will love to know about your interests, preferences, travel style, what you would like to see and do, your travel dates.
02.
We will prepare an exclusive travel proposal
Based on the interests you have shared with us we will send you a unique trip proposal.
03.
Fine tuning
After you review the proposal, we will be in contact to fine tune your itinerary and do any needed changes to adapt it to your interests and preferences.
04.
Book your trip
When you are ready to book your trip, we will send you the link to the secure gateway so you can pay.
FAQs – Portugal Travel Questions
Yes, laundry services are commonly available in hotels across Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Most hotels, especially mid-range and upscale ones, offer laundry and dry-cleaning services. If you’re staying in smaller hotels or hostels, they often have arrangements with local laundromats or provide self-service laundry facilities.
However, laundry services might be less readily available in rural areas or small villages compared to cities. Here you can choose the basic laundry services as many rural accommodations offer this service often for a small fee. Or you may take advantage of some local laundromats.
When traveling to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, we advise you to have a travel insurance that should cover a few key areas to ensure a stress-free trip:
- Medical Coverage: Ensure it covers illness, injury, and any necessary medical treatments or hospital stays.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption: This helps if your trip gets canceled or cut short due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Lost or Stolen Belongings: Coverage for lost luggage, passports, or personal items can save you a lot of trouble.
- Emergency Evacuation: In case of a serious medical issue, coverage for emergency transportation is crucial.
- Travel Delays: Compensation for significant delays can help cover unexpected expenses.
Having comprehensive travel insurance will give you peace of mind and let you enjoy your adventure without worries.
For exchanging money in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, banks and official exchange offices are your best bet. ATMs also offer good rates. However, paying by card is often the easiest and most convenient option, as cards are widely accepted and usually give you the best exchange rates.
In Spain and Portugal, most tourist sites and public areas welcome photography. However, some museums, churches, and historical sites may have restrictions, especially regarding flash photography. Always look for signs or ask staff if you’re unsure.
In Morocco, photography rules can be a bit stricter. While many public places and markets are photo-friendly, some religious sites, palaces, and government buildings prohibit photography. Additionally, always ask for permission before photographing people to show respect for local customs.
Please always check for any specific rules at each site to ensure you’re following local guidelines.
In Spain and Portugal, it’s generally acceptable to take photos in markets and public places. Most people don’t mind, but it’s always polite to ask first, especially if you’re taking close-ups of individuals or their stalls.
In Morocco, it’s a bit different. While taking photos in markets is usually okay, it’s important to be respectful. Always ask for permission before photographing people, as some may find it intrusive. If you’re unsure, a friendly gesture and a smile can go a long way.
Enjoy capturing the beautiful moments on your trip, and remember to be considerate of local customs and people’s privacy!
In Spain and Portugal, Wi-Fi is widely available in most hotels, cafes, and public areas, especially in cities. You can expect free and reliable connections in many places.
Morocco also offers good Wi-Fi coverage in hotels and cafes in popular tourist destinations like Marrakech and Casablanca, though it can be more variable in rural areas. To ensure you stay connected, consider getting a local SIM card or bringing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.
Enjoy your trip while you stay connected!
During the day it’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts and sneakers. However, if you plan to dine at restaurants, it’s better to opt for longer pants. In these countries, people tend to dress more formally than in the US.
While speaking the local language can enrich your experience, many tourism professionals and younger people speak English in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. However, learning a few basic phrases in the local language is always appreciated and can be very useful.
In Spain and Portugal, the currency is the euro (€). In Morocco, the currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). It is easy to exchange money at airports, banks, and exchange offices in major cities. Additionally, ATMs are widely accessible.
In Spain and Portugal, vegetarian and vegan options are increasing, especially in large cities and tourist areas. In Morocco, while the traditional diet includes meat, there are many vegetarian dishes available, especially in markets and tourist restaurants.
Each country has its own customs and traditions. In Spain, it is common to greet with two kisses on the cheek. In Portugal, people are very polite and appreciate good manners. In Morocco, it is important to dress conservatively, especially in rural and religious areas, and always ask permission before taking photographs of people.
For U.S. citizens, no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in Spain and Portugal, which are part of the Schengen Area. For Morocco, no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. However, it is always good to check specific requirements before traveling as policies can change.
In Spain and Portugal, tap water is generally safe to drink. In Morocco, it is advisable to drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues, especially in rural areas.
In Spain and Portugal, the standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz, and plugs are of type C and F. In Morocco, the voltage is also 220V with plugs of type C and E. It is recommended to bring a universal adapter to avoid issues with your electronic devices.
Driving in Spain and Portugal is relatively easy for those who are accustomed to driving in Europe or other right-hand traffic countries. Both countries have a well-maintained network of highways and roads, particularly the major motorways, and road signs follow international conventions and are usually clear and well-placed. Traffic can be heavy in major cities, but we will always suggest having a rental in small towns that will allow you to discover scenic rural routes. A GPS or navigation app can be very helpful and connection work well in both territories.
We suggest you talk to your phone company and check with them if your phone will work in Portugal. If it is a GSM phone then generally it will work, but please check before. You always have the option to buy a pre-pay SIM card in Portugal. It will be cheaper and you will have access to data, email, etc.
Yes, Portugal is a safe country. However, you must be very careful with pick pocketing, especially if you take a tram in Lisbon. Be careful not to leave unattended belongings in public spaces, restaurants and bars.
In Portugal you can pay with credit card almost everywhere. The best way to get cash is by withdrawal. That is why we don’t recommend you bring too much cash.
Ask your bank about commissions for withdrawal money from ATM in Portugal. The commission you are charged to withdraw money from ATM is set by your bank, so please check with them before you leave.
The best months to travel to Spain, Portugal and Morocco are Mar-May, Sept & Oct.
Our favorite months are Abril, May, June, Sept and Oct.
From June to August expect warm, sunny and dry weather in Spain and Portugal. In Morocco you should expect high temperatures in July and August, especially in the South of the country.
Electricity in Portugal is 220 Volt, 50Hz. Almost all electronic devices will adapt automatically to the different voltage. If in the labelling of your device says “120V” or “100-120V”, you will need a voltage transformer. If it does not say this, generally your device will adapt automatically.
What you may need is a plug adapter. Sometimes the plugs adapters are combined with voltage transformer. Please read carefully the information on the unit. If the label of your device says “110-220” or “100-240” then you will only need a simple plug adapter (in this case, no transformer needed).
If you need more information on this website you will find more detailed information about electricity and adapters: http://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
You just have to select on the right side of the page where are you travelling, then say which country you live in and you will see all the information.
Domestic flights, trains, private transfers, public transportation.
In both Spain and Portugal, people drive on the right-hand side of the road.
I suggest Google Maps. I have used many apps and this one is accurate, updated and works perfectly both in big cities or small villages in Portugal.
If you want to use it to move around the cities we suggest downloading from the app on your phone, the maps of the cities you will be visiting so you can use them without a connection. Look for this option 
in the menu, click it and just drag the world map to the required areas.
June, July and August are sunny and dry months. So, our suggestion is to wear sun glasses, sun cream and hat if you are not used to sun.
