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Tips for Traveling to Portugal

Portugal's Algarve beaches are one of the most popular reasons to travel to Portugal.

Thinking of planning a European vacation for summer 2021? Consider adding Portugal to your vacation bucket list. This southern European country is located on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain. Portugal’s Atlantic Ocean location influenced many aspects of its culture: salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes. But perhaps its Algarve beaches, Portugal’s southernmost region, are most popular for not only its beaches but also its golf resorts. Ready to enjoy your Portuguese vacation?  Read on for tips to traveling to Portugal.

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Tips for Traveling to Portugal

Perhaps you’re heading to Italy to experience la dolce vita while sipping limoncello in Sorrento? Or you could pick Paris, with its iconic Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Notre Dame, and insouciant locals?

But what about Portugal? Its culture might be close to that of its Mediterranean neighbors, but it’s actually an Atlantic nation with a long-standing maritime history. This country is blessed by beautiful beaches, cool cities, and tons of terrific attractions for travelers of all ages. Sounds tempting? Here are 5 tips for planning the perfect Portuguese vacay.

Check Visa Requirements and Travel Advice to Portugal

Imagine this view of the Lisbon harbor when visiting Portugal.
Imagine this view of the Lisbon harbor when visiting Portugal. Photo: Pixabay

Many nationalities can travel to Portugal as tourists for up to 90 days with no visa requirement, but it’s always best to check the latest government travel advice for Portugal before booking your holiday.

In addition to relevant visa information, find the most reliable information on currency restrictions, local laws, and the address of your embassy or consulate.

Choose Your Portuguese Location

Tips for Traveling to Portugal should include visiting Madeira and its quaint homes with thatched roofs.
Tips for Traveling to Portugal should include visiting Madeira and its quaint homes with thatched roofs. Photo: Pixabay

There’s a Portuguese destination to suit every type of traveler.

Add a visit to Madeira, an island set far out in the Atlantic to the west of the mainland. As the homeland of famous soccer player Christiano Ronaldo, see quaint thatched roof houses and some of the world’s best fireworks at the New Year.

Sunset on the Algarve beaches in Portugal will leave you wanting more -- and staying longer.
Sunset on the Algarve beaches in Portugal will leave you wanting more — and staying longer. Photo: Pixabay

Alternatively, if you’re yearning for bright blue waters, golden sands, and lively nightlife, you might prefer Algarve beach locations like Lagos, Albufeira or Vilamoura.

Plan Your Sightseeing Itinerary in Portugal

Include a stop to visit the Bengali caves when planning your Portuguese vacation.
Include a stop to visit the Bengali caves when planning your Portuguese vacation. Photo: Pixabay

If you’re traveling around this unique nation, there’s so much on offer that you’ll have to prioritize which iconic attractions you want to take in.

Your Portuguese itinerary should include booking a Bengali caves tour from Portimao. While you can only access this site via the water, it’s worth the trip to lie on a secluded beach hidden underneath a natural rock amphitheater.

Are you a literary fan? You’ll love the Lello Bookstore in Porto.  Its stunning interior is stacked from floor to ceiling with reading materials of all types.

Book the Best Flights to Portugal

TAP Air Portugal is the flag carrier airline of Portugal, headquartered at Lisbon Airport which also serves as its hub
TAP Air Portugal is the flag carrier airline of Portugal, headquartered at Lisbon Airport which also serves as its hub. Photo: Pixabay

The early bird catches the worm, and if you want to save cash on your flights to Portugal, finding and booking them as far ahead of your desired dates as possible will save you a sack-load of cash.

A comparison site like Skyscanner.com is a good place to start – simply enter your dates and details. The search engines offer multiple deals from carriers like Lufthansa, British Airways, or TAP Air Portugal.

Hire a Car

The best way to experience all Portugal has to offer is hiring a car to explore the city and the countryside.
The best way to experience all Portugal has to offer is hiring a car to explore the city and the countryside. Photo: Pixabay

Tips for traveling to Portugal should include exploring the country, right? With so much to see in this terrific country taking to the open road in your own ride is one of the best ways to make the most of your Portuguese vacation.

Enjoy Care Hire in Portugal is one of the best places to search for reliable and affordable rental vehicles – you can pick up your wheels at a range of locations and hit the road for adventures in Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and beyond.

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