Portugal
The Country Guide
What Portugal is known for
Portugal is coastline, history, and warmth. Seven centuries of seafaring history, azulejo-tiled facades, soulful fado music, and a food scene from fresh seafood to Michelin tables. It is affordable, safe, and among the most welcoming countries in Europe.
The regions
Lisbon, the capital, is a city of hills, trams, and light. To the north, Porto and the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley. To the south, the beaches and golf of the Algarve. And offshore, the subtropical islands of Madeira and the Azores.
Sport, adventure & the outdoors
World-class surfing at Nazaré and Ericeira, championship golf across the Algarve, sailing the Atlantic coast, hiking the Douro and Madeira, and cycling through wine country.
Wellness & recovery
Thalassotherapy spas along the coast, vineyard retreats in the Douro, and the subtropical calm of Madeira make Portugal a quietly excellent wellness destination.
When to go
Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal, warm and uncrowded. Summer is hot and busy on the coast. We time it to the region you want.
Good to know
Currency. The euro. Visa. Portugal is in the Schengen Area; most Western passports enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Health. No vaccinations required. Value. One of the best values in Western Europe. Getting around. Compact and easy; we arrange private drivers and transfers throughout.