excursions in portugal

The Best Tours of Portugal

Day trips to sintra and douro valley, wine tours, sailing experiences and more.

11 Tours Found

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Price - Highest First

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Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon

Visit Pena Palace, roam through beautiful Sintra, and hike through Cabo da Roca and Praia da Adraga!

Pena Palace Tour and Winery Experience from Lisbon

Discover Sintra’s charm and sip wine at one of Torres Vedras’ renowned wineries

Lisbon 4WD Winery Tour and Tasting Experience

Ride through vineyards and sip wine paired with local bites in Lisbon’s Wine Region

Braga and Guimarães Day Trip from Porto

Explore Portugal’s Minho region, see the country’s oldest cathedral, and visit a medieval castle!

Sintra, Nazaré, and Fátima Day Trip from Lisbon

Witness colossal waves, Pena Palace, the renowned Fátima Mass, and more alongside an expert guide

Lisbon Day Trip to Óbidos, Nazaré and Porto

Wander through a medieval village, visit a charming fishing town, and admire the iconic Duoro River!

Ultimate Lisbon Food & Wine Walking Tour

Sample ginjinha, bifana and codfish cake, while uncovering tucked-away taverns in Baixa and Rossio

Sintra and Cascais Semi Private Day Trip from Lisbon with Pena Palace

Explore two of Portugal’s most beautiful villages and take in the view from the Roca Cape cliffs!

The ultimate Douro Valley Wine Tasting and River Cruise from Porto

Sample exquisite wines at two acclaimed wineries, enjoy a traditional lunch, and hop on a cruise!

Fatima, Nazaré, and Óbidos Semiprivate Semiprivate Day Trip from Lisbon

Discover three of Portugal’s most picturesque towns and enjoy a traditional tasting of Ginja liquor!

Local Food Tour of Porto

Eat your way through this stunning Portuguese city while sampling local authentic dishes!

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OUR BEST SELLING TOURS AT A GLANCE

Most Popular Tours

Rome in a day tour with colosseum and vatican museums.

Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Breeze past the lines for the palace and gardens with a friendly English speaking guide

Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica

Venice in a Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Visit St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, Rialto Bridge, and hidden areas of Venice

Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi

Explore Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and so much more

Paris in a Day Tour with Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Seine River Cruise

See the Mona Lisa, Sacre-Coeur, and Moulin Rouge with organized transportation and an expert guide

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Skip the line and gain quicker access to the Vatican so you can explore at your leisure

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Portugal

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Portugal. There are 253 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 17 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit Portugal.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Portugal with 5,131 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Highlights of Portugal

We had a great group. Itinerary was just what I was looking for. Everyone could choose what they wanted to do during the day.

Best of Portugal (11 Days)

Well organized but extremely busy schedule

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Portugal

One of the best Solo travel ( then joining a group?) I ever did.Been traveling since I was 27, am 56 now.. every birthday month of mine I treat myself on seeing beautiful countries I’ve never been. Am glad I found this site and this tour. The tour itinerary was great, the tour guide is great we all love her ( Myriam ), and our driver ( Hrui). I love small group guided tour. In this tour I met incredible people that become my new friends. We consider each other our Portugal family?..

Northern Portugal Discovery

Loved our tour guide Cristina Evo and the driver Fernandez (the boss)! Very personable, entertaining, informative and full of acknowlege.

Portugal in Depth

We thoroughly enjoyed our Globus - Best of Portugal tour! Our tour guide, Rui, was exceptional and created an engaging and fun-loving atmosphere! His abundance of historical and present-day knowledge of each location was interesting and impressive. The tour was well-paced and all but two hotels were wonderful with appetizing food for breakfast/dinner. Hotel Mundial in Lisbon was by far the best accommodations with comfortable beds and ample AC. Porto snd Algarve hotels were good as well. The hotels used for our single-night stays we're less comfortable and food was not up to par. The hotel in Vissou had issues with low functioning AC and uncomfortable beds and in Evora the dinner was poor quality. All in all, this tour was fun, engaging, and well-run. The tour locations and optional excursions were fantastic and provided many enriching experiences. Portugal is a beautiful country and we fell in love with the people, culture, food, and sights. We look forward to our return and highly recommend the Globus - Best of Portugal tour.

Highlights of the Azores

A very beautiful place with wonderful landscapes, thermal baths, cheese and wine. Our guide Sasha was lovely and very informative as well as delightful to talk too. I enjoyed all the activities but do ensure you were good shoes for the home. recommend that a visit to the cheese factory is added the morning you arrive on Sao Jorge.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• Coastal Walks

Walking in Madeira

The guide Benny was super nice and very knowledgeable about the Madeira region and his explanations were very interesting. He took our comfort very seriously and made sure to meet all our requests. He took us to quiet places away from the tourist crowds. Driver Sergei was incredible. He drove safely and very relaxed. The hikes were varied and covered quite a bit of Madeira. Only the last day of the tour was very busy, maybe change the route?

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium Portugal

Picturesque Portugal (End Lisbon, 7 Days)

Too little time spent on optional excursions. Hotels okay. City tours only from bus. Little walking tour of Lisbon and Porto. Stayed in Lisbon xtra day to explore and walk. Optional farewell dinner overpriced. Whole tour overpriced.

Country Roads of Portugal (Classic, Summer, 11 Days)

Discover Portugal National Geographic Journeys

Picturesque Portugal (End Porto, 7 Days)

Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride

Great ride, pedaling along the beach and through forests, many miles of which are bicycle path and board walk. The bicycle provided were perfect, lightweight, front suspension MTBs with provided large capacity handlebar bag. The ride was not overly taxing, although hillier as the days went on. The cafe stops were delightful. Historic and natural beauty surrounded us. Hotels and buffet breakfasts were perfect. The guide Alex a Portugal native was superb, corralling us as needed for safety, espousing on history, geography and such. We had a friendly group and a lovely time. Highly recommended.

Portugal City and Surf (9 Days)

What people love about fully guided tours in portugal.

Above and beyond my expectations attributed to the tour guide Ana Rita and the bus driver Mario..

Our guide Cristina And driver Fernando were both exceptional, friendly, knowledgeable and our pleasure to be with as traveled some 2500 km through Portugal.

Regions in Portugal

• Northern Portugal (49)
• Madeira (25)
• Azores Archipelago (19)
• Central Portugal (17)
• Algarve (7)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• Portugal Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Portugal Itineraries 2024/2025 (With Reviews)
• Discover the Best Portugal Vacation Packages 2024/2025

The 15 Most Unmissable Tours in Portugal

From Porto down to the Algarve, explore each city your own way with these top 15 tours in Portugal.

Portugal has an endless list of sights and attractions, and figuring out what to do during your stay may seem overwhelming.

We have taken the time to dig deep and filter out only the best to give you the top 15 tours in Portugal.

Portugal in a nutshell

It’s easy to understand why Portugal is a destination of choice which is continuing to grow in popularity.

Life here is considerably more affordable and the weather is really good compared to many of our European counterparts.

Houses aren’t simply brown and grey, they’re white, pink, blue or yellow. Cobblestone roads and mosaic floors pave the way in every direction, keep walking and you will find a little pastry shop with good espresso and a fresh pastry for under €2.

Continuing on your way, you may just fall in love with the Manueline style buildings amidst traditional soft Portuguese style and contemporary architecture.

Stunning coastlines and picture-perfect beaches have tourists and all of Portugal flocking to the Algarve in Summer. Lisbon boasts so many incredible viewpoints and Porto is the city for wine lovers and romantics.

Then there are the lush green volcanic archipelagoes of the Azores , and Madeira Island where locals are friendly, welcoming and more than willing to answer your questions about Portuguese culture.

But, before I get too carried away, let’s get into the top 15 tours in Portugal.

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Here they are, the top 15 tours in Portugal

In Portugal, you have a great variety of tours to choose from. Some of these are walking tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours , tuk-tuk tours , group coach tours, boat tours or perhaps you prefer to be chauffeured around privately.

These top 15 tours in Portugal have excellent reviews and are bestsellers for a reason. Here they are, listed by location from the North of Portugal down.

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Braga & guimarães.

Braga is a historic and cultural city located in the far northwestern region of Portugal, it is actually the 3rd largest city in Portugal.

Guimarães , still within Braga, is a perfect example of how a town transitioned from a medieval town to a modern city. The small and charming city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Braga and Guimarães full-day tour with lunch from Porto

This is an 8-hour guided tour which takes you through Braga and Guimarães, you also get to stop and enjoy a delicious Portuguese lunch.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Pick up and drop off at city centre accommodation
• Guide tour of Braga Cathedral, Guimarães Castle, and Paços dos Duques
• Monument fee’s
• Typical Portuguese lunch

The price is €80 per person. View the full itinerary and book your tour here .

Porto is the second-largest municipality that lies along the Douro river in the north of Portugal. It is also one of the only two Global Cities in Portugal, 2nd after Lisbon.

Porto is famous for Port Wines , rich unfortified red and white wines and FC Porto of course.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, River Cruise, & Port Cellar Tour

Discover Porto at your own pace with a 2 days access to hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tours. A Douro riverboat cruise and visit to the Calém Port Wine cellars adds amazing value.

• Hop-on hop-off bus ticket (valid for 2 days)
• River cruise
• Guided tour of the Calém Wine Cellars
• Discounts on restaurants, bars, shops and other attractions

The price is €25.20 per person. View all the details and book your tour here .

If you only want to do the hop-on, hop-off bus, a 2-day ticket costs €16.20 per person. Get it here .

Private Walking Tour

Another way to experience the city is with a walk through the historic centre of Porto , also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and get an insiders view of all the main attractions. As you go along, your private guide will give you some insight into Porto’s founding and formation.

This is a 3-hour half-day walking tour so wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Marvel at the fantastic views of the Crystal Palace Gardens
• Walk along the famous Aliados Avenue
• Catch a glimpse of the Douro River from Louis I Bridge
• Descend down the narrow streets and staircases of the Miragaia neighborhood
• Local Taxes and Fees are included.

The price is €45 per person. See the full itinerary and book your tour here .

Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, River Cruise and Lunch

Relax and spend a day in the  Douro Valley , enjoying the beautiful landscapes during your all-inclusive guided day tour.

Highlights of this 9-hour tour include:

• Hotel pick-up and drop off
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Free WiFi onboard
• 1-hour panoramic cruise on the Douro
• 2 winery visits
• Port wine, Red wine, White wine and Rose wine and Olive oil tastings
• Wheelchair accessible.

The price is €95 per person (Usually €118.75). View the full itinerary and book here .

About an hour down South from Porto and well worth the trip, you’ll find yourself in Aveiro , Portugal. Nicknamed ‘Venice of Portugal’.

Aveiro: Half-Day tour from Porto or Gaia with Cruise

You’ll certainly be putting your camera to good use as you cruise and walk through the picturesque town of Aveiro.

Highlights of this 4-hour guided tour include:

• A 1-hour cruise along Aveiro’s channels in a unique “Moliceiro” boat
• Learn about the city’s culture and its traditional connections with the river and the sea
• Admire the brightly coloured houses on a walk through Costa Nova
• Pick up and drop off service

The price is €50 per person. View the full itinerary and book here .

Serra da Estrela

Serra da Estrela is mainland Portugals highest mountain. In February and parts of January and March, snowfall allows for a small ski resort.

The irresistible, although also smelly Serra da Estrela cheese is made here and is what its most famous for.

Have you ever tried Portuguese cheese? Discover this and all the other flavors here .

2 Days Tour to Heart of Serra da Estrela from Lisbon

Although day trips from Porto and Lisbon are available for visiting Serra da Estrela, a 2 to 3-hour journey there and back in one day is not fun at all. Considering the time it takes to get there, give yourself enough time to explore and enjoy Serra da Estrela over this 2-day tour.

Highlights of this 2 days guided tour from Lisbon includes:

• Visit the village of Alvares Cabral and enjoy amazing views and landscapes
• Overnight accommodation
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private tour

The price is €350 per person. View the full itinerary and book here .

Fátima, Nazaré and Óbidos

Fátima, Nazaré, Óbidos & São Martinho do Porto Full-Day Tour

Continuing down South, the centre of Portugal is also a must to visit. Fátima is home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a Catholic pilgrimage site and other sacred sites.

Nazaré is a fishing town and surfing hotspot famous for its golden beaches and tall waves.

Óbidos is a small medieval city built within walls, stop for a taste of cherry liqueur in a dark chocolate cup (shooter sized).

Lastly, the tour adds a visit to São Martinho do Porto, a civil parish village now famous for the bay of São Martinho do Porto.

Highlights of your 8-hour guided tour include:

• Visit the Apparitions Chapel and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Fátima
• Marvel at the massive waves at Nazaré, a surfing paradise
• Explore the medieval walled town of Óbidos
• Pick-up and drop off at your Lisbon accommodation
• Mini air-conditioned van up to 8 people

The price is €60 per person. See the full itinerary and book here .

Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Roca

Another favourite amongst visitors and residents is Sintra , also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The centre of Sintra is known for its 19th-century romanticist and Manueline style architecture.

Picturesque royal castles and palaces are the centres of attention although I can’t get enough of the gardens that only seem short of a few fairies.

Cascais is a popular seaside resort home to one of the wealthiest communities and not too far away you will find Cabo da Roca for breathtaking views of the westernmost point of the Sintra mountain range.

Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour

Explore the wonders of the most popular attractions that Portugal has to offer with this guided day tour.

Highlights of this 8-hour tour include:

• Experience romantic Sintra and visit Pena Palace and the gardens
• Tour Quinta da Regaleira and feel the mysticism (optional)
• Stop at the westernmost point in Europe at Roca Cape
• See Cascais, once the holiday destination of European aristocracy
• Pick-up and drop off at your central Lisbon hotel or apartment

The price is €60 per person. View the full itinerary and book here (Entry to Pena Palace and gardens (€14) and Quinta da Regaleira (€6) is not included.

Lisbon is Portugals Capital and largest city. With so much to see and do in the trendy capital, these are a few more of the top 15 tours in Portugal.

Lisbon Essential Tour: History, Stories & Lifestyle

Spend 3 hours visiting some of Lisbon’s most important attractions with a professional guide.

Highlights of this tour include:

• Visit Bairro Alto, dating from the 16th century
• Take in the views from Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara
• Take a ride on an iconic Lisbon tram
• Explore the Alfama district, the city’s oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood
• Coffee and cake break

The price is €18 per person. See the full itinerary and book here .

Lisbon: Pub and VIP Club Crawl

Instead of the more traditional day tours, you may want to discover Lisbon’s nightlife with a pub crawl. You’ll get to make new friends and awesome memories with this fun tour for the young at heart.

Highlights of this 5-hour night out include:

• Discover the nightlife scene of Lisbon with local guides
• Meet fellow travellers from around the world
• Enjoy great drink discounts
• Skip the lines to one of the best clubs in town
• Get unlimited sangria or beer

The price is €16 per person. View the full itinerary and book here .

Lisbon: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River with Drinks

Cruise down the Tagus River at sunset and enjoy Lisbon from a different perspective.

The highlights of this 2-hour yacht cruise include:

• Watch the sunset over Lisbon aboard a yacht
• See the landmark sights of the city from the Tagus River
• Look at the outstretched arms of the Cristo-Rei Statue looking over the city from Almada
• Welcome drink

The price is €31.20 per person (Usually €39). View the full itinerary and book here .

The Algarve is made of 16 municipalities, Situated on the southernmost tip of mainland Portugal, it’s famous for its golf resorts, remarkable coastlines and beach caves, warmer water, soft beach sand.

From Portimão: 2.5-Hour Cruise to Benagil Caves

Look inside the spectacular rock formations of the Benagil caves on a comfortable 2.5-hour boat cruise along the Algarve coast from Portimão. Stop for a swim at a safe location, and look out for dolphins along the way.

Highlights include

• Explore the spectacular Benagil caves by boat
• Stop for a swim at a beautiful location
• Pick up from hotel in Portimão and Praia da Rocha

The price is €30 per person. View the full itinerary and book here .

I opted for a full day which includes a beach bbq on a small private beach after viewing the Benagil Caves. If you do have time to make a full day of it, I highly recommend it.

Sagres, Lagos & Silves: Western Algarve Minivan Tour

Explore the western part of Algarve, where nature and heritage go hand-in-hand. From the breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean in Sagres to the Moorish castle in Silves, every step is a monumental voyage through time.

• Enjoy the views over the Atlantic Ocean at São Vicente Cape, the southwestern end of Europe
• See the marks of ancient civilizations at Sagres fortress
• Explore Lagos old town and its medieval ramparts with a guided tour or take a boat ride along one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines
• Visit the medieval town of Silves and its Moorish castle
• Discover Baleeira, an old stronghold next to Sagres
• Traditional local pastry
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan with WiFi

The price is €48 per person (usually €60). See the full itinerary and book here .

Venture off to the Azores , an archipelago made up of 9 volcanic Islands. Explore the town of São Miguel , go on a hike or take a dip in a natural hot spring.

São Miguel West Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Spend a full day taking in the beauty of the city and surrounding nature of São Miguel Island.

• Visit Sete Cidades, the famous King’s View, the beautiful rocks of Mosteiros, Fogo Lake, Caldeira Velha and more.
• Stop at the town of Ribeira Grande and see the beautiful cliffs of São Miguel.
• Head off the beaten track to see hidden natural gems
• Learn about the history of the Azores from your expert guide
• Lunch of traditional Azorean food, drink of your choice, dessert and coffee
• All entrance fees

The price is €59 per person. See the full itinerary and book here .

Last but not least is Madeira , an island known for its Madeira wine, gastronomy and dramatic landscapes.

From Funchal: Enchanted Terraces and Porto do Moniz Tour

Experience Madeira on a scenic drive by 4WD vehicle. In between the sightseeing, you get to stop for a swim in the volcanic lava pools of Porto do Moniz or off the black sand beach at Seixal.

Highlights of this 8-hour guided tour include:

• Drive the old and enchanted roads of Madeira’s northwest coast in a 4 wheel drive vehicle
• Take a 20-minute walk through the Laurissilva Forest
• Enjoy the warmth of the sea at Porto do Moniz or Seixal
• Pick-up an drop off from hotels and guesthouses in Funchal (outside of Funchal at additional costs)

The price is €46.40 per person (Usually €58). View the full itinerary and book here .

Lisbon and Porto Card

Planning to see a lot in a short period of time, or struggling to choose which attractions to visit because you’re travelling on a budget?

The Lisbon and Porto card allows you to take the cap off your daily itinerary with incredible value.

Lisboa Card

Save your feet for exploring that actual sites by using your unlimited transport access between attractions.  Travel between trains, metro, buses and trams as you often as you need. Time saved means you also get to see so much more in a day.

Top attractions that are free to enter with the Lisbon card include Jerónimos Monastery,  Belém Tower, LISBOA Story Centre, Santa Justa Elevator and more! Furthermore, up to 50% discounts are available on many other attractions and tours.

If you would like to view the full list of attractions where you get free or discounted access, it is detailed here .

There are 3 ticket options to choose from:

• 24h card at €20/*€13
• 48h card at €34/*€19
• 72h card at €42/*€22.50

*Rate for children from 4 to15 years old.

Printed or mobile vouchers are accepted. The time allowed to use the card starts after its first validation. If for any reason you have to postpone your trip, the unused card remains valid for a year.

Get your Lisbon card here .

The Porto Card is similar to the Libon Card, it offers unlimited usage of public transport services such as the Metro, STCP buses, and the urban trains between Valongo and Espinho. Some private transport operators are on the free list as well.

In addition, the top attractions where entry is free with the Porto Card includes the Arqueossítio, Casa Do Infante Museum, Museum Guerra Junqueiro and the Port Wine Museum. Discounts of up to 50% are offered at many attractions and participating stores.

Take a look at the full list of all free transport operators, attractions and discounts here .

Choose between four card options (You will receive two cards; a sightseeing pass and a travel pass):

• 1 Day card at €13
• 2 Days card at €20
• 3 Days card at €25
• 4 days card at €33

Get your Porto Card with transportation here .

We hope we have made planning your next trip to Portugal a lot easier. Remember to book your tour well in advance especially if you plan to travel between June and August.

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20 Best Porto Tours: From Hidden Gems to Famous Spots

LOOKING FOR THE BEST TOURS IN PORTO? 

If you’re looking for the best Porto tours for your visit to the northern Portuguese city, you’ve come to the right place, as this article outlines the 20 best Porto tours.

❤️ Why do I love Porto? Let me count the ways.

Porto is a city where history comes alive in its winding streets and impressive buildings, telling stories from years gone by. It’s a food lover’s paradise , famous for its Francesinha sandwich and Port wine. The city’s charm shines in its stunning river views and picturesque, colorful houses.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Porto tour is this All-Inclusive Private Douro Valley Tour , with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Honestly, I might even have a slight preference for Porto over Lisbon — but that’s just me. So, how do you experience everything that this marvelous city has to offer? Why not take a tour?

These Porto experiences include all the highlights — from Porto city tours, which show you the stunning architecture and dive into the culture and history of the centuries-old city, to the 🍷 best wine tour Porto has to offer, where you can sample port wine, green wine , and the famous Douro Valley reds. 

Ready to discover your favorite Porto tour? Let’s go.

Top 3 Picks: Best Porto Tours

Private Porto City Tour

→ customize your itinerary → hotel pickup and drop-off

Private TukTuk Tour All Around Porto

→ private, customizable experience → knowledgeable and accommodating guide

Douro Valley Private Tour

→ wine tasting + lunch →  boat trip in the Douro River

15 Best Porto Tours to Explore

1. private porto city tour .

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 📌 BOOK NOW  

See Porto up close and personal on this fully customizable private half day tour of the city .

While your guide will give you recommendations based on your interests , you won’t want to miss the tour highlights like the Torre & Igreja dos Clérigos — a baroque church with stunning architecture.

The Ribeira District is another picturesque spot not to skip —  with a beautiful riverside setting, historic charm, and a vibrant atmosphere — the neighborhood is an amazing glimpse into local life in Porto.

Antonio gave us the best 1/2 day tour of Porto. He knew some great picture spots and also gave us amazing lunch and dinner recommendations.  — KIM (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This tour makes use of an air-conditioned vehicle to get you to all of your stops in total comfort. Your guide will make sure you have time for photos everywhere you want and that you never feel rushed. 

BEST PORTO TOURS

2. explore porto by tuk-tuk  .

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🛺 BOOK NOW  

Enjoy zipping around the streets of Porto in a little tuk tuk on this epic Explore Porto by Tuk-Tuk experience . Why a tuk-tuk? This small little vehicle can easily get you through narrow streets and up steep hills to all of the best spots in the city. 

Make stops at spots like the Porto Cathedral where you can pause for photos with the impressive Romanesque building, and to take in the breathtaking views of the city and the Douro River.

We had a wonderful time! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the city. Explained very well! Porto is beautiful! — CLAUDIA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Explore parts of Porto University like the Edificio da Reitoria da Universidade do Porto and make sure to keep an eye out for students dressed in their Harry Potter-like robes (they had them first).

This tuk tuk tours Porto will bring you all through Porto old and new — from its peeks right down to its beachfront. 

3. Douro Valley Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 🍇 BOOK NOW  

Spend a full day out in the stunning countryside of the Douro Valley on this Private Tour of the Douro Valley.

You’ll be absolutely pampered throughout the day as you enjoy a wine tasting at an intimate, family-run Douro winery. 

So enjoyed the entire day. Felt like we experienced the true culture of Porto. Highly recommend this tour . — AMY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

If your day wasn’t already off to a perfect start you’ll continue on by boat, cruising slowly past the extraordinary terraced vineyards that hug the river on both sides.

Of course, you’ll have the chance to fill up on a delicious lunch which will be carefully paired with more local Douro wines. And, finally, 🍷 a glass of port to cap off a perfect day.

4. Portuguese Cooking Class with Wine  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 👩‍🍳 BOOK NOW  

Experience something near and dear to the heart of every Portuguese — their food. In this cooking class you’ll learn how to cook a classic Portuguese dish: codfish, or bacalhau.

You’ll also prepare mussels or clams as well as a desert of an almond tart. All of these spectacular dishes will be paired with the perfect wines for you to sip on throughout. 

The chefs were wonderful, entertaining, funny and great instructors. Would highly recommend this if you are in Porto. — ED (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll not only get your hands dirty cooking each of these dishes, but you’ll actually learn the process so you can take them home with you and repeat it. This is definitely one of the best food tours in Porto to get a taste for the dishes that Portuguese take great pride in. 

5. Private Douro River Boat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚤 BOOK NOW  

Enjoy an intimate tour along the Douro River on this chartered bridges cruise.

Pass under the amazing bridges that connect the city of Porto with the city of Vila Nova de Gaia , take a moment to appreciate their immense size and architectural diversity.

 10/10 recommend this experience!! This was truly the highlight of my trip and would do it again if I ever visit Porto again soon! — CONNIE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour continues westward towards the open ocean. If the weather is good, and the sea is calm, your guide will bring you all the way out the mouth of the river. But no matter what, you’ll get a chance to see Cabedelo Nature Reserve — a beautiful space of ecological diversity with pristine beaches and beautiful flora and fauna.

This is one of the best Porto boat tours to book for a relaxing afternoon. 

6. Porto by Night Tour with Fado Show & Dinner  

⭐️ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🎶 BOOK NOW  

Head out to experience the magic of Porto by night on this evening Fado show and dinner tour. Listening to Fado — a traditional Portuguese music with soulful melodies and longing, sorrowful lyrics — is an unmissable experience. 

This tour beautifully blends stops at Porto city highlights like the beautiful Sao Bento railway station with a dinner and a show.

I highly recommend this tour and dinner with Fado. Don’t miss it! It was our 21 year wedding celebration and couldn’t have been better. — TRAVELER (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

✨ You’ll also get the chance to see Porto’’s beautiful bridges and other landmarks illuminated at night.

Your dinner will be traditional Portuguese food like the famous cod. One of the best Porto tours by locals, you will definitely leave this dinner tour completely full and happy.

7. Porto City Tour with Lunch, Wine Tasting & Boat Cruise  

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW  

Combine a full day of sightseeing with a traditional Portuguese lunch, then sprinkle in a visit to the famous port wine cellars and top it all off with a cruise down the river. The result? The Ultimate Porto City Tour , one of the best tours in Porto Portugal.

This full day tour will give you a chance to check out the iconic buildings of Porto such as the cathedral and railway station along with a guided tour through one of the best port wine tour Porto has to offer. 

Arnaldo was an awesome guide. He made this tour extra special. — TERRY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then have a choice of fabulous Portuguese dishes to fill you up for lunch — the famous Porto sandwich — a francesinha , is on offer, as are cod dishes. 

One of the best port wine tours in Porto, book this Port tours Porto for a fabulous day out and an unforgettable experience in this Portuguese city

8. 4×4 Porto Mountain Excursion  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW  

Escape the city and explore its surroundings on this 4X4 tour, which will bring you into the wild of the Serras do Porto park.

There, you will have the chance to see Roman excavations dating back thousands of years . Go even further back and check out the rock formations in the park, which are hundreds of millions of years old.

We had so much fun on this trip! Our guide was so knowledgeable and accommodating.  — TERRY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Along with all of that history, explore what the countryside has to offer in the present day — visit a family-owned pastry shop, a farm, and stop for lunch in a beautiful small village.

🌿 Enjoy the quiet nature of the Porto countryside.

9. Porto Food and Wine Walking Tour  

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🍇 BOOK NOW  

Porto has a unique food and wine scene, which you can discover on this Porto Food and Wine Talking Tour — one of the top Porto food tours.

Throughout the tour, you’ll try a classic bifana — a simple but delicious pork sandwich, you’ll sample some bacalhau, a very traditional codfish dish. And of course you’ll try 🍷 port wine as well as Portuguese coffee and a delicious treat of a pastel de nata (a custard tart). 

Going from place to place around the city on this, one of the best food tours in Porto, you’ll learn all about what you’re eating and be totally satiated by the end of it all.

10. From Porto: Off-Road Buggy Adventure  

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🛺 BOOK NOW

Ready to try out something a bit different and unique? Head out of the city of Porto on an off-roading adventure with this half day tour into Serras do Porto Natural Park.

We had so much fun! Great equipment, some serious off-roading as well as driving through small towns we wouldn’t have seen otherwise. — KAREN (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From Roman ruins to the charming village of Quintandona , where everything is made of rock, take a break from the bustle of the city and enjoy the quiet as you take in all the natural beauty around you. 

Book this Porto day tours experience for an amazing time splashing through the mud and the muck of the forest.

11. Port Wine Tour with 7 Wine Tastings  

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to really dig in and learn all about the local wine scene — and by that, I mean drink a lot of local wine, this is the perfect wine cellar tour for you .

Throughout the afternoon, you will visit a total of three wineries and taste a selection of seven different ports.  This tour takes place across the river from Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia, and all of the cellars are conveniently located in that area.

Nuno was a wonderful and lively guide, great at keeping us engaged and entertained. Big fan of the tour overall. — ALEX (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The experienced guides at each spot will tell you all about the winemaking process and guide you through your tastings to make sure you not only enjoy what you’re sipping but also understand the experience your mouth is having.

🍷 This is definitely one of the best port tours Porto for anyone with an interest in wine.

12. Guided Port Wine Walking Tour  

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

If you’re looking to somehow do it all and get all of the sightseeing in Porto done all at once, this is the tour for you — a wine tour and a walking tour all in one.

And if you’re curious to stretch your Porto winery tours beyond just samples of port, this one guides you through tastes of green wine along with classic Douro Valley reds. 

Ana was a really good guide— did some good walking, tasting and learning . I recommend this activity. — HUIB (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

In total, you will visit three wineries in both Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto . As you make your way from one to the next, your guide will point out attractions along the way and give you recommendations of other spots to visit. 

🍷 This is hands-down one of the best port wine tours Porto has to offer.

13. Porto Highlights on an Electric Bike

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🚲 BOOK NOW

This Porto Highlights tour doesn’t provide you with a guide — it provides you with a storyteller.

Enjoy those stories and the history of everything you see as you whizz up the killer hills of Porto on an electric bike, exploring the highlights of Porto sightseeing. 

Such a great experience, we were able to see so many places in one go. There were many great views and it was fun to bike around using the e-bikes. — LIZ (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Thanks to the speed and ease with which you can travel on these Porto bike tours, you can see at least nine different attractions in just half a day .

Enjoy a visit to the tranquil Jardim da Cordoaria, a stop at the epic Livraria Lello, as well as a load of other iconic Porto spots — visit all the places of interest in Porto with ease on this electric bike experience.

14. Porto Surf Classes

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🏄 BOOK NOW

This surf class brings you to the beaches outside Porto for a half day course. Total beginners and those with experience are all welcome.

You’ll start out on the beach to make sure you understand the theory of what to do once you hit the water.

It was a great introduction to surfing and the instructors were really helpful and encouraging! Would definitely recommend. — VANESSA (READ MORE  REVIEWS

Once you’re ready to leave the sand, you’ll only go to the shallow water as it hits the shore — this class is all about going slow and steady , and your experienced teachers will guide you every step of the way. 

🏄 Surfboards and wetsuits are provided, as is transportation from the city center. 

15. Pastel de Nata Cooking Class

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 👩‍🍳 BOOK NOW

It’s a well-known fact that you haven’t lived until you’ve bitten into a warm pastel de nata . But what about biting into one you’ve made with your very own hands?

That’s exactly what this cooking class provides — a chance to learn the authentic ways of the Portuguese custard tart.

This was one of the most enjoyable events we’ve done. Joanna is so knowledgeable about the baking process and she teaches it very clearly. — CHERYL (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll cook with your group, each taking turns getting your hands dirty, following the recipe of your host’s grandmother. As you go, you’ll learn not only about how the tart is made but also all about its history. 

When the tarts come out of the oven, you’ll sit down to enjoy them with your group, along with tea, coffee, and juice. One of the best Porto Portugal food tours if you are looking to create your very own pastel de nata.

5 Best Porto Day Trips 

16. aveiro, paiva walkways & arouca 516 footbridge.

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10.5 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Head out of Porto and visit the stunning little town of Arouca before hitting the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world — the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge — on this Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca Porto Day Tour.

Your walk across the 516 Arouca Suspension Bridge offers heart-pounding views of the river below. If you decide to carry on through the Paiva Walkways — a series of wooden paths with steps and platforms — you’ll have about eight kilometers, or five miles, of exploring ahead of you.

Joao a 10 as a person and worker. I loved the excursion. One of the best tours I have ever done. — RAQUEL (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll continue on to explore Aveiro, where you can glide through the canals on a gondola ride. 

17. Fátima and Coimbra Full-Day Tour from Porto

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | 📍 BOOK NOW

This day trip into Fatima and Coimbra is a fantastic way to dive into more of the culture of northern Portugal.

The story in Fatima is that t hree shepherd children saw Fatima, or the Virgin Mary, as she appeared and spoke to them. This tour brings you first to their home, where you can learn more about life in rural Portugal in the 20th century. You’ll also visit the famous chapel in the town. 

It was an amazing trip . Cristian was knowledgeable, speaks great English, and gave us sufficient time to explore. He was kind and patient. — LISA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Finally, Coimbra — the beautiful town which is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.  This is one of the best tours from Porto to book for anyone curious about more of the history of the region. 

18. Small Group Day Tour of Geres National Park

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ⛰️ BOOK NOW

Embark on a day out to Peneda-Gerês National Park , a wild space dripping in natural beauty. Enjoy being surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and lush landscapes.

This is a great tour for anyone who wants to escape the cities and discover more of Portugal’s wild side . You’ll have the opportunity to go for a dip in the natural pools of the waterfalls before stopping for a picnic lunch. 

This tour was absolutely amazing! We visited two waterfalls and swam in their beautiful and refreshingly waters. — TRAVELER (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

In addition to all the nature, your guide will bring you to one of the villages located within the park, where life is about as authentic and rustic as you can find in this day and age. 

19. Braga and Guimarães Day Trip with Lunch

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH : 10.5 hours | 🏛️ BOOK NOW

Explore Braga and Guimarães on this day trip and discover their rich historical heritage and stunning medieval architecture.

In addition to the exciting cities, you’ll also see amazing bits of natural Portugal, like at Bom Jesus Do Monte — where your tour starts off at a Catholic shrine on the top of a mountain with stunning views. 

This was a great experience and I recommend it for everyone. — RONALD (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Throughout the day, you’ll see highlights of the two cities like the Braga cathedral, Guimares castle — the oldest castle in Portugal — and the dazzling Palace of the Dukes. 

The day will include plenty of information about all of your stops from your knowledgeable and professional tour guide.

20. Aveiro & Costa Nova Tour with Moliceiro River Cruise

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH : 4 hours | ⚓ BOOK NOW

Combine the picturesque canals of Aveiro with the picture-perfect scene along Costa Nova’s beaches on this day tour to Aveiro and Costa Nova from Porto.

Head out from Porto and begin your education immediately as your guide tells you all about the history of the area. Once you arrive in Aveiro, you’ll get a chance to go for a ride along the canals in a Moliceiro —  a traditional Portuguese gondola-like boat. 

The boat ride, costa Nova and Aveiro were beautiful. Loved the striped houses! Guide was excellent. Highly recommend this tour. — CHRISTINE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From Aveiro your guide will bring you to Costa Nova, which is famous for its brightly colored fishermen’s huts. Against the sandy beach this is a lovely spot to stop for a break or to go for a stroll.

Final Thoughts: Best Porto Tours

Did these Porto excursions excite you? All caught up on the best Porto tours? Now, all you have to do is make sure you have time in your Porto/ itinerary for all of these amazing experiences. From Porto city tour bus rides that give you a fantastic overview of the city to in-depth Porto guided tours that delve into the rich culture and history, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Still don’t know Which Tour to Pick?

One of the best Porto tours is this All-Inclusive Private Douro Valley Tour , with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Each Portugal Porto attraction adds its own unique flavor to your journey, making every moment memorable. And don’t forget to check out Porto tours TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations on the best experiences.

If you’re tight on time, a day trip to Porto can be a great way to experience the city’s highlights. Remember that Porto tours from Lisbon are a convenient day trip option to explore Porto’s unique charm.

From the best port wine tour in Porto to the best tour from Porto to Douro Valley, and Porto free walking tours to the best food tours in Porto, Portugal, you won’t want to miss any of it.

My name is Caitlin. I am from Vermont, USA. I have lived in Setúbal, Portugal since 2021. I work as a writer and editor as well as a teacher. Outside of work I love horseback riding, hiking, and exploring new places around the globe. I write about my travels at The Country Jumper.

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11 Day Portugal Tour to Lisbon, Algarve and Porto

11 days, 1 country and 16 cities

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10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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This Best of Portugal journey reveals a nation’s proud history, warm-hearted locals and soul-warming cuisine. Starting in Lisbon, you’ll travel north and south to explore a Templar stronghold, watch thoroughbreds perform at an Alentejo farm and visit the Algarve.

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Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Lisbon, Coimbra, Tomar, Évora and Porto with a Local Specialist

Discover the Algarve, Lagos, Castelo de Vide, Viseu, Nazaré and Óbidos

Visit the Hieronymite Monastery in Lisbon, the cathedral in Évora, the Palace Gardens at Palacio de Mateus, the Stock Exchange Palace, Arabian Hall and a local port wine cellar in Porto, the University Library of Coimbra, the Convent of Christ in Tomar and the Gothic Monastery at Batalha

View the Castle of Guimarães and the Shrine at Fátima

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Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Portugal Tours & Vacations

A perfect little pocket of European bliss.

It’s not just the birds that are heading south – flocks of travelers have discovered that   Spain’s   little neighbor packs a mighty punch. A country of historically mixed fortunes, Portugal is having a moment in the spotlight which will almost certainly linger. From the Algarve’s dramatic coastline to the terraces of the Douro Valley wine region, from Lisbon’s steep cobbled streets to the Azores’ volcanic peaks, Portugal is packed with history, beauty and some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever encounter. And the food? Just you wait.

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Portugal at a glance

Capital city.

Lisbon (population approximately 2.8 million)

Approximately 10.2 million

(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Portugal

Culture and customs.

Portugal is a Roman Catholic country that has been influenced by many cultures over the years. The Portuguese hold onto traditional family values and are renowned for their appreciation of food and the arts, with three Portuguese cities – Lisbon, Porto and Guimaraes – having been designated   European  Capitals of Culture.

Walk the streets of a Portuguese city and you’ll be greeted by color and chatter. The locals love nothing more than having a chat with each other, or with tourists, be it about the weather or politics or football. More often than not, these conversations take place during one of the day’s endless number of coffee breaks, or around the lunch or dinner table. Debates are encouraged, particularly with a glass of port in hand.

Pop into a bar in Lisbon and you may be greeted by the mournful sound of ‘fado’, a Portuguese style of music that’s listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The lyrics often relate back to the sea and a sense of nostalgia, homesickness and longing, and it holds such a special place in Portugal’s heart that when Amalia Rodrigues, the so-called ‘Queen of Fado’, died in 1999, three days of national mourning were declared.

This love of the arts isn’t limited to music either; Lisbon is jammed full of art galleries and even the pavements, all over the country, are patterned and decorated in a mosaic style. It’s just one example of the Portugal’s love of beauty, whether that beauty is found in art, food or each other.

History and government

The Iberian Peninsula was once made up of various tribes including the Celts, Aquitani, Iberians and Turdetani. Trade had been established across the Mediterranean by the   Greeks  and Phoenicians, though the Romans came to control the entire peninsula. As the Roman Empire began to weaken, the peninsula was invaded by various barbarian tribes and the Visigoths came out victorious. They controlled the entire Iberian Peninsula and converted to Catholicism.

The Moors and Reconquista

Meanwhile, Islamic forces had been slowly sweeping from the   Middle East   to Northern Africa and in AD711 the Moors crossed the Gibraltar Strait and defeated the Visigoths. They pushed north and conquered nearly all of the peninsula, though the Christian kingdom of Asturias held strong in the northwest thanks to the protection of the surrounding mountains. The Iberian Peninsula was known as Al-Andalus and became a centre for science and progress, though infighting eventually led to the area being split into a number of independent Muslim states.

In the 11th century, Christian soldiers from across   Europe  answered the call to fight the ‘infidels’ during a period known as the Reconquista. The Moors were pushed south and, in 1139, Afonso Henriques declared himself the King of Portugal after defeating the Moors in the south. The Algarve was conquered in the late 13th century and Portugal’s borders were defined.

Global expansion

After securing their borders, the Portuguese turned their attention abroad. Nearby   Morocco  was the first target and Portugal’s victory spurred the country into global exploration.   Africa , Southern India and   Brazil   followed, as well as trading posts in Timor,   China   and more. Their plan was simple: despite having a relatively tiny population, they would build their empire through trade.

This, of course, was unsustainable for such a small nation and they eventually found themselves in and out of Spanish rule towards the end of the 17th century. A period of peace and prosperity ensued until a giant earthquake hit Lisbon in 1755, leveling the city and causing tens of thousands of deaths. The Prime Minister at the time, Marques de Pombal, famously promised to ‘bury the dead and heal the living,’ and somehow did just that.

19–20th centuries

After Brazil’s independence was recognized in 1825 the Portuguese focused in on the domestic front. Education improved, as did women’s rights, and slavery was ended across the Portuguese colonies. Still, discontent was spreading as inequality rose and the monarchy was seen as a cause of this: the king, Carlos, was assassinated and his son was exiled to the UK – an unstable republic was born.

Over the following 16 years there were 45 changes of government. Coup after coup after coup took place, with Portugal supporting the Allies in WWI and remaining neutral in WWII. The post-war years saw yet another coup in Lisbon, known as the Revolution of the Carnations, led by military personnel sympathetic to the colonies, and the decolonization of territories swiftly followed. Countries like East Timor and Angola were plunged into chaos and by the late 1970s, Portugal was equally, if not more, unstable.

It’s been a long slog for Portugal and the economy is by no means safe. The country was in a serious recession for years, but the past five years have seen unemployment drop and wages rise. There’s been a heavy investment in green energy too. And though tourist numbers continue to swell and boost the economy, the cities are facing similar problems to a lot of European hotspots: rising rents and cost of living, thanks to tourism, are forcing locals out of the city centres. But for now, Portugal is going from strength to strength and looking positively towards the future.

Geography and environment

Portugal is located on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula. It shares an extensive land border with   Spain   to the east and north, while the west and south of the country are hugged by the Atlantic Ocean. The country’s geography varies from north to south and is a nice mix of plains, woodlands, mountains and beaches.

The extensive coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, with the south of Portugal, an area known as the Algarve, being particularly popular with tourists. The northern coast is equally beautiful but more influenced by the Atlantic and experiences more rain and wild weather, particularly during the winter.

To the west of Portugal is the island archipelago known as the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal. These islands have been visited by sailors for centuries and are renowned for their dramatic beauty. The volcanic peaks, lush landscapes and colourful fishing villages host some 250,000 residents across nine islands. The Azores has a subtropical oceanic climate, which is warm in summer but by no means a ‘tropical paradise’. The Atlantic makes the temperature much more mild than the islands of the Mediterranean.

Inland Portugal is defined by the Douro River, which empties through Porto, and the Tagus River, which empties through Lisbon. Portugal’s south features rolling plains with a relatively warm and dry climate, while the north is far more mountainous with a wetter climate. The highest point on mainland Portugal is Torre (1993 m/6539 feet) in the Serra da Estrela range, which is a popular skiing destination in the winter.

Eating and drinking

It’s unsurprising, given Portugal’s location, that seafood plays a massive role in the Portuguese diet. In fact, the national dish of bacalhau (salted cod) can supposedly be cooked in over 365 ways, one for each day of the year. But it’s not just seafood that’s on the menu – the Portuguese have a varied and, quite frankly, mouth-watering range of dishes as well as a world-class wine industry.

Keep an eye out for some of these while traveling through Portugal: 

• Caldeirada This stew, which is packed with several different types of fish, is one of Portugal's most popular and enduring dishes. Expect sardines, cod, haddock, tuna and mackerel, doused in white wine and olive oil, served with a chunk of crusty bread. Simple but effective!
• Pasteis de Nata The Portuguese custard tart has wrapped its delicious ­– and admittedly non-existent – arms around the globe and the world’s tastebuds are cheering. These gooey little goodies feature flaky pastry and custard filling and can be eaten by the dozen (but shouldn’t be, for health reasons).
• Carne de Porco á Alentejana The popular Portuguese version of surf and turf hails from the Alentejo region but can be found served all throughout Portugal. Featuring pork and clams as the hero ingredients, white wine, paprika and coriander add flavor that is difficult to resist.
• Feijoada Brazil's national dish was actually invented by the Portuguese and this stew still endures as a common favorite in Portugal. Featuring beans, pork or beef and vegetables, this hearty stew is typically served with rice, although regional differences make this dish a different proposition every time.
• Entrecosto com Mel Meat lovers will salivate over these succulent pork ribs marinated in honey, garlic and liquor. Served with a side of chili sauce, this oven-roasted feast is perfect for a decadent celebration.
• Francesinha This is Porto’s sandwich to end all sandwiches. Translating as the ‘Little Frenchie’, this dish is anything but. It’s the Portuguese adaptation of the classic   French  toastie and features bread, pork, sausage, bacon and beef, topped with cheese and a fried egg and served with fries on the side. Give it a try ­– you won’t regret it (you almost certainly will).
• Port Portugal’s Douro Valley, upriver from Porto, is the third-oldest wine region in the world and the only one capable of producing port wine. Fortified wines are made all over the world but only wines from the Douro can be labelled as ‘port’. A sweet red wine, usually served for dessert, port has been made in the Douro since the mid-18th century and the landscape is as beautiful as the wine is delicious.

Festivals and events

If you're traveling to Portugal you better pack your party shoes. No matter what time of year you're visiting, you'll see the locals take to the streets for some kind of 'festa'.

Santo Antonio Festival

Sometimes known as the Festival of Sardines, this festival takes place in mid-June though it’s part of a full month of celebrations in Lisbon. Portugal’s capital is filled with people grilling fish in the street and celebrating St Anthony, the patron saint of the city. The streets are filled with revelers, with the party beginning in the afternoon of June 12 and continuing until sunrise – June 13 is a bank holiday.

If you can’t make it to Brazil for Carnaval and happen to be in Europe, Portugal is the place to head for some wild times. Colorful parades and heaving street parties take place all over the country in celebration of the beginning of Lent.

Obidos Medieval Festival

From mid-July to August, Obidos hosts a medieval festival filled with jousting knights, feasts and performances, all in front of the city’s imposing castle. The town recreates medieval Europe with banners and flags strung across the town and soldiers, jugglers, minstrels and more wandering the streets.

Music festivals

Portugal’s summer features a number of hugely popular music festivals that attract superstar acts from across the globe. Some of the biggest are Primavera Sound in Porto, the Portuguese adaptation of the Barcelona-based festival, and Rock in Rio, which is held every two years in Lisbon, as well as NOS Alive.

Portugal offers up the full gamut of shopping experiences from big city malls to dusty little antique stores hidden in the winding backstreets. Shopping not really your thing? That's fine, just eat your way through the country instead.

Remember, it's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

A great keepsake from a trip to Portugal is a bottle of fortified from its spiritual home. Wander down Porto’s steep streets to the harbor and spend some time visiting the port houses lining the water. You can do tastings, enjoy a meal and pick up a bottle from famous houses like Taylor’s and Sandeman’s, or opt for something a little different like Kopke, which is the oldest port house in Porto and has been producing the sweet stuff since 1638.

Azulejos are colorful, decorative tiles that can be found on surfaces all over Portugal. They were used as a form of art as well as to control the temperature in homes. The tiles are classically blue and white, although they are found in other colors, and can be bought brand-new or found in antique stores across the country.

Galo de Barcelos

The Rooster of Barcelos is the unofficial symbol of Portugal. There are various legends surrounding the rooster, but they all come back to a passing pilgrim claiming his innocence and declaring that a cooked rooster on the dinner table would rise and crow at the hour of his hanging. Every souvenir shop in the country will have various gifts relating to the rooster, but it’s worth keeping an eye out in the various markets for a more authentic, locally crafted example.

Top places to visit in Portugal

Sip on a snifter of port in its city of birth. A colorful, cobbled city, Porto is an intoxicating concoction of harbor history, winding streets and hidden gems.

Spain & Portugal Real Food Adventure

Portugal Real Food Adventure

Classic Spain & Portugal

2. The Algarve

There’s a patch of sand for everyone along the dramatic Algarve, whether you’re there to surf, party or simply soak up the sunshine.

Explore Spain & Portugal

Live that cosmopolitan life in Portugal’s most exciting city. Architecture, nightlife, seafood and a haunting fado performance await.

Madrid to Marrakech

Home to Portugal’s oldest university and (maybe) the world’s most beautiful library, Coimbra is a cultural experience like no other.

Spain, Portugal & Morocco

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Portugal adventure, check out these books:

• The Book of Disquiet   – Fernando Pessoa
• Night Train to Lisbon   – Pascal Mercier
• The History of the Siege of Lisbon   – Jose Saramago
• Baltasar and Blimunda   – Jose Saramango
• The Portuguese: A Modern History   – Barry Hatton

Portugal travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

The months of May, June and September are considered some of the best times to see Portugal as the weather is usually fine (yet not too hot) and the attractions are less crowded than during the peak months of July and August. Autumn and winter are typically rainy and windy, yet sunny days aren't rare either. If you’re after a beach holiday, keep in mind that the water temperature on Portugal’s north coast will be very cool, even during the summer months.

Is it safe to visit Portugal?

Yes, it is safe to visit Portugal. Travelers should exercise normal precautions and keep a close eye on their belongings in crowds and heavily touristed areas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?

Portugal is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Portugal, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Portugal?

Tipping isn’t customary in Portugal except at restaurants. Adding 10 percent to the bill should be fine, or more if the service has been exceptionally good. Rounding up to the nearest euro will be appreciated by bar staff and taxi drivers too, but this is not expected. When staying at a hotel it's also standard to tip the luggage porter one euro per bag.

What is the internet access like in Portugal?

Internet access in Portugal is generally good with widespread wi-fi in both cities and smaller towns. You may wish to purchase a local SIM. The main domestic carriers are Vodafone, TMN and Optimus, but make sure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a prepaid SIM.

Can I use my cell phone while in Portugal?

Travelers should be able to use their cell phones across Portugal. The most economical way to use your phone in Portugal is by purchasing a local prepaid SIM. If you wish to use your own SIM, be sure to activate global roaming before departing your home country and always check with your carrier as to any additional charges that may be incurred.

What are the toilets like in Portugal?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the norm in Portugal. Please be aware that sometimes a small fee is required to access public toilets, so it’s worth having a small stash of euro coins for when the need arises.

What will it cost for a...?

Portugal’s unit of currency is the euro. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Short city tram or bus ride = USD 1–2
• Can of soft drink = USD 1.50–2
• Cup of coffee = USD 1–2
• Beer in a cafe or bar = USD 2–3
• Wine in a cafe or bar = USD 1–4
• Simple lunch in a café = USD 10
• Dinner and a wine in a nice restaurant = USD 20–30

Can I drink the water in Portugal?

The tap water in Portugal is safe to drink unless marked otherwise. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Portugal?

Most restaurants, hotels and larger shops in Portugal’s cities and tourist areas will accept credit cards. Smaller eateries and shops may not, so make sure you have some euro on you for smaller purchases or when visiting less frequented areas.

What is ATM access like in Portugal?

There are ATMs in all cities and most towns in Portugal. The smaller villages may not have ATMs so once again, make sure you have some cash if you plan on heading somewhere more rural.

What is the weather like in Portugal?

Portugal is one of Europe’s warmest countries. Yearly temperature averages are about 55°F in the north and 64°F in the south.

Spring and summer months are usually warm and sunny, with July and August averaging maximums between 77°F and 86°F in Porto, around 86°F in Lisbon and 86–95°F in the south. These coastal areas tend to be cooler thanks to the ocean breeze.

What public holidays are celebrated in Portugal?

1 Jan   – New Year’s Day

March/April   – Good Friday/Easter Sunday

25 April   – Liberty Day

1 May   – Labor Day

10 June   – Portugal Day

June   – Corpus Christi (60 days after Easter)

15 Aug   – Assumption of Mary

5 Oct   – Republic Implantation

1 Nov   – All Saints’ Day

1 Dec   – Restoration of Independence

8 Dec   – Feast of the Immaculate Conception

25 Dec   – Christmas Day

For a current list of public holidays in Portugal, including the movable dates noted above, go to:

timeanddate.com/holidays

Is Portugal safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Portugal legalized same-sex marriage in 2010 and has passed legislation protecting LGBT-identifying people from discrimination. Most Portuguese are open-minded and unconcerned when it comes to sexuality, particularly in the more touristed areas of Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, but it’s worth remembering that Portugal is a Catholic country in which homosexuality is still not regarded as being ‘normal’.

As far as scenes go, Lisbon has a more prominent community and the annual highlights are the Lisboa Pride Festival in June and September’s QueerLisboa Film Festival. For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Portugal accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Facilities for people with physical limitations are lacking in Portugal when compared to many other European countries. On top of this, Lisbon and Porto are very hilly, with lots of stairs and cobblestones, and visitors with disabilities may have trouble getting around.

That said, things are improving and newer hotels and restaurants, as well as modern museums, have accessible facilities. The best transportation for those with disabilities is train, with an increasing number of stations having ramps, lifts and disabled bathrooms.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Portugal

Pack for Portugal as you would for any other coastal European destination. If you’re traveling in the summertime, loose clothing that protects from the sun is best for the daytime, but be sure to cover your shoulders when visiting churches or other religious sites. The winters can get quite cool, as can the evenings in spring and autumn, so pack a warm jumper and a raincoat too. See our   ultimate packing list   for advice on what to bring.

What's the accommodation like in Portugal?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Portugal, you may find yourself traveling by:

Most hotels used on Intrepid tours through Portugal are small, family-run guesthouses, so expect staircases instead of lifts and small rooms big on character.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip to Portugal support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Turkey directly support our foundation partner, REFOOD.

REFOOD work directly with local communities in Portugal to rescue quality food from going to waste and use this to provide meals for those in need. Donations help them promote a circular movement that benefits the environment and helps to feed those living in food scarcity.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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Lisbon Highlights

Secret Food Tour in Lisbon

Sintra Half Day Tour

Discover Lisbon on Foot

Full Day Sintra Deluxe Tour

Full Day Tour to Obidos, Batalha, Nazare and Fatima

Half Day Tour to Fatima

Wine and Food Tour

Lisbon, Sintra and Estoril

Fatima On Your Own

Freeport Shopping Experience

Arrabida Wine Discovery

Evora and Wine

Obidos On Your Own

Fatima, Batalha, Nazare & Obidos

Lisbon Highlights and Pastry Tasting

Sintra & Cascais (Full Day)

Classic Lisbon Half Day Tour

A Taste of Lisbon

Comporta Horseback Ride and Scenic Setubal

Discover Sintra and Pena Palace with Winery Tour

Panoramic Lisbon

Private Fatima, Obidos and Nazare Tour

Private Southern Lisbon Food and Wine

Scenic Sintra Hiking Tour

Private - Spirit of Lisbon City Tour

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The 11 best places to visit in Portugal

Nov 17, 2023 • 7 min read

From the viewpoints of Lisbon to the beaches of the Algarve, here are the best places to go in Portugal © Gabriel Mello / Getty Images

Lisbon and Porto may get a lot of love, but there's so much more to Portugal than its captivating historic cities.

From  golden beaches  and mountainous peaks to lush river valleys, every region has its own diverse highlights across this small Iberian nation.

Finding the best places to go here depends largely on your own interests. If you’re after sun-kissed beaches and aquatic adventures, head to the Algarve ; for historic architecture-filled towns with a rich, traditional dining scene , aim for Évora. Start planning your itinerary now with our 11 favorite places to visit in Portugal.

Best for nightlife

Seven iconic hills overlook  Lisbon 's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, white-domed cathedrals and grand civic squares – a captivating scene crafted over centuries.

The Portuguese capital is packed with things to do , from browsing galleries (including the Museu Nacional do Azulejo with its trove of ceramic tiles) and exploring castles (such as the hilltop  Castelo de São Jorge ) to satisfying your sweet tooth with the city's incredible  pastéis de nata  (custard tarts).

By night, Lisbon’s party people take over, filling old-school drinking dens, brassy jazz clubs and open-all-night clubs that burst into life once the sun goes down.

Planning tip: Lisbon has an emerging craft beer scene that you can experience at the city's breweries and bars .

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in Portugal

2. douro valley .

Best place to drink wine 

One of Portugal’s most beautiful areas lies just east of Porto. Here, the meandering Rio Douro flows past towering hillsides covered by the steeply terraced vineyards that make up Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. Whether you come by boat, train or car to the Douro Valley , you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views at every turn, especially as you near the lovely village of Pinhão in the heart of the region. 

Planning tip:  Many travelers dash in on a quick day trip, but to make the most of the region, spend the night at one of the vineyard-surrounded guesthouses in the area, such as Quinta Nova or the Casa Cimeira .

Best hilltop village

Wandering the tangle of ancient streets in the historic town of  Óbidos is enchanting at any time of year, but come during one of its festivals and you're in for a special treat. Whether you fancy the idea of a mock-up jousting match at a medieval fair or delving into the written word at Folio – Portugal's biggest international literature festival – you couldn’t ask for a better backdrop.

Best for a fantastical escape

Less than an hour by train from the capital Lisbon,  Sintra feels like another world. It's a great day trip away from the city hubbub. Like a setting from a fairy tale, this historic hillside township is sprinkled with stone-walled taverns and lorded over by a  multicolored palace .

Forested hillsides form the backdrop to this storybook setting, with imposing castles, mystical gardens, strange mansions and centuries-old monasteries hidden among the trees. The fog that sweeps in by night adds another layer of mystery.

Planning tip:  Chilly evenings are best spent by the fire in one of Sintra’s many charming B&Bs.

5. Setúbal Peninsula 

Best for wild, cliff-backed beaches

South of Lisbon, the Setúbal Peninsula has long been the weekend playground of Lisboetas (Lisbon residents). A ferry ride, followed by a short bus or bicycle ride, takes you to the Costa da Caparica, a seemingly endless beachfront that gets wilder and less crowded the further south you go. If you want a surf lesson, some downtime on the sands, or a meal overlooking the lapping waves, this is the place to come. 

If you’re seeking a bit more solitude, head down to the Parque Natural da Arrábida at the southern end of the peninsula. Here, you'll find cliffs covered with thick vegetation, picturesque coves and beaches such as Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, with fine sand, azure waters, and the ruins of an ancient site that dates back to Roman times. 

Best for historical architecture 

The heart of the Alentejo region, Évora is one of Portugal’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns, and it's an enchanting place to spend a couple of days. Inside the 14th-century walls, narrow, winding lanes lead to striking monuments, including an elaborate medieval cathedral, Roman ruins and a picturesque town square.

But this isn't a musty museum piece – Évora is also a lively university town, and its many restaurants serve up some excellent, hearty Alentejan cuisine.

Best for urban exploring 

It would be hard to dream up a more romantic city than  Porto . Portugal’s second-largest urban center is laced with narrow pedestrian lanes, baroque churches and cafe-dotted plazas, leading the eye down to the Douro River and its landmark bridges. Needless to say, there's no shortage of  great experiences here . Start in the  Ribeira district – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – then cross the bridge to explore centuries-old port wineries in  Vila Nova de Gaia , where you can sip the world’s best port. 

You can also learn about Porto’s history (both the drink and the city) and other facets of Portuguese identity at the World of Wine , a sprawling complex of museums, restaurants and bars overlooking the city. Though Porto is defined by its air of dignified history, modern architecture, cosmopolitan dining, vibrant nightlife and artistic activity are injecting new life into the city.

8. The Minho 

Best for traditional villages and wilderness trails 

The Portuguese have a special fondness for the Minho , a verdant region of vineyard-covered valleys, mountainous wilds, isolated beaches and picturesque river towns that seem little changed by time. The gateway to the region is Braga , a city with Roman ruins, a fabled medieval cathedral , and tranquil flower-trimmed plazas sprinkled with outdoor cafes and restaurants. 

Further north, you’ll find Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês , a vast, rugged wilderness of dramatic peaks, meandering streams and frozen-in-time stone villages. Dozens of hiking trails crisscross the reserve, taking walkers past old Roman roads, castle ruins or sparkling waterfalls.

Planning tip:  If you're here in summer, cool down in the idyllic swimming holes – these are among the best places to be in Portugal during the hot weather.

Best for a student vibe

Portugal’s most atmospheric college town,  Coimbra , rises steeply from the Rio Mondego, and its handsome medieval quarter houses one of Europe’s oldest universities. Students roam the narrow streets clad in black capes, while the sound of fado (Portugal’s soulful traditional style of music) drifts through the Moorish town gates towards the stained-glass windows of the historic  Café Santa Cruz .

Planning tip:  Grown-ups may well appreciate the town’s student-driven nightlife and the medieval lanes of the steeply stacked historic center. Visitors with younger kids can keep busy at Portugal dos Pequenitos , a theme park with miniature versions of Portuguese monuments.

10. Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela 

Best for hiking and alpine activities in winter

The Serra da Estrela – Portugal’s  highest mountain range – is the place to come for rugged scenery, outdoor adventures, and glimpses of a vanishing traditional way of life. Hikers can choose from an expansive network of high-country trails with stupendous vistas, and the region's fascinating mountain villages make perfect bases for outdoor adventures.

At the country’s highest point – the summit of Torre, artificially pushed to 2000m (6561ft) by the addition of a not-so-subtle stone monument – you can slalom down Portugal’s only ski slope. Oh, and did we mention the furry sheepdog puppies that frolic by the roadside? You’ll long to take one home.

11. The Algarve

Best for a relaxing family holiday

Sunseekers have much to celebrate in Portugal. Along the south coast, the Algarve is famed for its gorgeous and varied coastline – you can either join the crowds on the people-packed sands at major resorts or find seaside peace on dramatic wild beaches backed by wind-carved cliffs. Days are spent playing in the waves, taking long oceanfront strolls, or surfing some of Europe's most memorable breaks. 

The Algarve is also one of the best places in Portugal for kids . You’ll find family-friendly beaches, water parks and plenty of outdoor adventures (from boating to hidden sea caves to exploring undeveloped islands).

Planning tip:  There’s never a bad time to visit this region, with its 300 days of sunshine each year, though you’ll find the best prices and thinnest crowds in winter. 

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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THE 10 BEST Porto Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in porto.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
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• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lisbon to Porto Up to 3 Stops: Óbidos, Nazaré or Fátima, Aveiro

2. Private Douro Valley Tour with Sommelier, Lunch and Wine Tasting

3. Private Yacht Cruise over the Bridges of Porto

4. Private Transfer Porto-Lisbon with 2 (two) Visits on the Way

5. Douro Valley Private Premium Tour with Wine Tasting (1 to 4 people)

6. Excursion to Aveiro and Costa Nova with moliceiro boat ride

7. Private Cruise on Luxury Yacht in Porto

8. Douro River Tour

9. Tour vintage Vw Kombi van - downtown 2h

10. Porto: Private Tour Douro Valley/Winery SECXVIII /Boat/Lunch

11. Aveiro / Porto / Gaia full day Private tour

12. Private Tour to Porto from Lisbon Full Day

13. From Lisboa: Porto Private Full Day Tour

14. Geres Experience Tour

15. Private Tour to Nazaré and Alcobaça, giant waves and a monastery

16. Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting River Cruise and Lunch from Porto

17. Private Tour to Fátima Sanctuary and the Little Shepherds Houses

18. Private Porto from Lisbon with Portuguese lunch and Porto wine tasting

19. Private Genuine Porto Walking Tour

20. Private Wine Experience in Vinho Verde Route

21. Porto Private FULL-DAY Tour

22. Private Tour Alvarinho (Melgaço and Monção) includes 3 wine tastings

23. Private Tour to Peneda-Gerês National Park, for nature fans

24. Porto city half-day private tour

25. Douro Valley Full-Day Private Tour from Porto

26. Private 4 hours tour of the "Main Monuments" in Oporto

27. Oporto Private Tour

28. From Porto Private Tour Douro Valley two Wineries, Lunch and Boat.

29. Porto-Belmonte-Porto Private Jewish tour

30. Cruise Shore Excursion - Private Tuk Tuk Tour to the Historic Center

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Enjoy the Douro’s beauty & history

Experience the renaissance of Lisbon, newly invigorated with trending galleries and restaurants. Explore two of Iberia’s oldest university towns: Coimbra, Portugal and Salamanca, Spain. Roam the port warehouses of Porto. Enjoy traditional cuisine, wine and fado singing. Cruise the Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site. Our 10-day cruisetour includes a hotel stay in Lisbon and the added bonus of a visit to Spain.

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To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

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One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

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Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

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Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

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*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

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More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

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Pre: Madrid

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Portugal needs to ‘pay the costs’ of slavery and colonialism, says president

Critics of Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa say behind remarks is lack of national recognition that slavery should be discussed in schools

Portugal needs to “pay the costs” of slavery and other colonial-era crimes, the country’s president has said, in a rare instance of a European leader seemingly backing the need for reparations.

Portugal has long grappled with calls by campaigners to address its legacy as the European country with the longest historical involvement in the slave trade. During the span of four centuries, nearly 6 million Africans were kidnapped and forcibly transported across the Atlantic by Portuguese vessels.

Those who managed to survive the voyage were enslaved and forced to toil on plantations in the Americas , mostly in Brazil, while Portugal and its institutions profited from their labour.

The country’s president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, said at an event with foreign journalists on Tuesday that Portugal “takes full responsibility” for the wrongs of the past and that those crimes, including colonial massacres, had “costs”.

“We have to pay the costs,” he said. “Are there actions that were not punished and those responsible were not arrested? Are there goods that were looted and not returned? Let’s see how we can repair this.”

The remarks came one year after Rebelo de Sousa said Portugal should apologise and “assume responsibility” for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, though he stopped short of providing any concrete details or a full apology.

In both instances, the president’s remarks were made primarily to international audiences, said Paula Cardoso, the founder of the Afrolink online platform for Black professionals in Portugal.

“Behind this international strategy is the lack of national recognition that this topic should be discussed,” Cardoso said in an email. “Kids are still learning at schools that Portugal was an excellent coloniser, that the country ‘discovered’ other countries, and that Portuguese people are so unique that they mixed with different cultures as if no violations occurred.”

She agreed on the need for reparations, arguing that Portugal must pay the costs of “being the creator of the transatlantic slave trade , of a culture of dehumanisation of Black bodies”.

She said practical actions to fight the systemic and structural racism that arose from this and that continued to colour the country today were also needed.

“We don’t even collect data on ethnicity to start with,” said Cardoso. “We are not even discussing the past, accepting that we must confront different historical narratives to consider the negative impact of the so-called Discoveries Age. So, how is Portugal taking full responsibility?”

The Portuguese president’s remarks come after the United Nations human rights chief added his voice to the African and Caribbean countries calling for amends to be made over slavery and colonisation.

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“On reparations, we must finally enter a new era,” the high commissioner for human rights, Volker Türk, said last week at a UN forum on people of African descent. “Governments must step up to show true leadership with genuine commitments to move swiftly from words to action that will adequately address the wrongs of the past.”

Between the 15th and 19th centuries, at least 12.5 million Africans were kidnapped into slavery and forcibly transported long distances by mainly European ships and merchants.

European leaders for the most part have sought to steer clear of meaningfully addressing the call for reparations. When the government of the Netherlands apologised for its role in the transatlantic slave trade in 2022, it said a €200m (£172m) fund to address this past would not be used to compensate descendants but instead spent on initiatives such as education and addressing the present-day impacts of slavery. Germany has been chastised for excluding the ethnic minorities who were murdered by the tens of thousands from talks over reparations. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Rebelo de Sousa said he believed that acknowledging the past and taking responsibility for it was more important than apologising. “Apologising is the easy part,” he said.

Additional reporting by Reuters

• Colonialism

More on this story

France urged to repay billions of dollars to Haiti for independence ‘ransom’

‘Hidden in plain sight’: the European city tours of slavery and colonialism

EU must face legacy of colonialism and support reparations, say MEPs

Europe’s hollow apologies for colonial crimes stand in the way of true reparation

African and Caribbean nations agree move to seek reparations for slavery

King Charles’s ‘deep regret’ for colonial atrocities was a ‘miss’, Kenyans say

King Charles stops short of apology for ‘abhorrent’ colonial violence in Kenya

King Charles asked for ‘unequivocal apology’ by Kenya’s rights commission

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