Portugal Tours & Packages

Portugal Tours by Region

Our tours of Portugal reveal the immense appeal of this small enchanting country. It’s rich with history and tradition as one of Europe’s great naval powers, with striking architecture, charming cities and towns, and world-class cuisine. Explore the Douro River Valley and taste the iconic Port wine crafted there for 2,000 years; listen to the haunting refrain of melancholy fado music; smell the orange blossoms in the south; feel the mist from crashing waves at Europe’s southwestern most point; be dazzled by the colorful glazed tile on floors, facades, and streets. 

Our Portugal travel packages take you face-to-face with the region’s treasures, like the famous Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima, the medieval city of Obidos, and dynamic Porto and Lisbon. Whether you choose the ease and luxury of a Douro River cruise or one of our many itineraries focusing on the cities, the country roads, or faith-based destinations, you’ll enjoy enriching encounters and special access to legendary Portugal sites.

Portugal is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Our trips to this land of olive oil, incredible seafood, warm hospitality, stunning natural beauty,  and historic wonders will capture your heart.

The Porto and North Region of Portugal

The 2,000-year-old city of Porto is a memorable centerpiece of your North Portugal tour. Clinging to both sides of the Douro River, this vital port city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Our Portugal trips offer guided tours with local specialists to architectural monuments like the Stock Exchange Palace with its ornate Arabian Hall inspired by Granada's Alhambra; the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge; the Clérigos Tower; and Liberdade Square. Visit the medieval Ribeira Quarter on your tour of Porto, and see the six magnificent bridges spanning the Douro River. You'll also want to witness the age-old art of crafting elegant Port wine in town and enjoy a wine tasting, or indulge in a river cruise to the heart of Portuguese wine country, where you’ll view endless terraced hillsides of picturesque vineyards growing the grapes for wines from the Douro region. When you visit Porto, make sure to try Bacalhau (dried and salted cod), a traditional ingredient embraced throughout the country and popular in dishes such as fritters and gratins. 

North of Porto, explore the region of Minho, named for the river that marks Portugal’s northern border with Spain. It’s a postcard-perfect landscape of dramatic mountains, lush vineyards, curving rivers, and ancient buildings.

The Central Region of Portugal

Bridging the sunstruck south and the verdant north of Portugal, visit the center region of Portugal, fondly known as ‘Beiras.’ Beira means “edge” or “side” in Portuguese and refers to the mountainous backbone of the country. This wild and rural area is a land of rugged mountains, vineyards, fortified towns, and the highest peak in continental Portugal, Serra da Estrela.Our central Portugal tours visit Guarda, the highest city in continental Portugal, a historic stronghold defending the border with Spain. Today’s visitors can see remnants of its ancient walls when touring the oldest sections of Guarda, including its Jewish Quarter and the Torre de Menagem (Homage Tower), a remnant of the 12th-century Castelo da Guarda castle. The granite Sé da Guarda cathedral, dating from the 14th century, is an imposing structure with a fortified aesthetic merging Gothic and Manueline architectural styles.

Another urban highlight of the Beiras on our tours of Portugal is the city of Coimbra, where the UNESCO-designated university has been evolving for seven centuries in the old town. The Joanina Library is a Baroque homage to learning and one of the world’s most beautiful libraries.

The Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region of Portugal

Visit Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, on our Portugal travel packages. Situated on a vast bay where the Tagus River meets the sea, this exciting city is the birthplace of the melancholy song style known as fado. Explorers, adventurers, and merchants set sail from Lisbon to conquer the world, as commemorated by the Monument to the Discoveries, a massive sculpted tribute to the Age of Discoveries.

The Belém Quarter beckons with attractions, including the Belém Tower, a 500-year-old fortification, and the imposing Jerónimos Monastery. Fortify yourself with a traditional custard tart and an espresso at the famous neighboring bakery Pastéis de Belém.

On our Lisbon and the Tagus Valley tours, we follow the valley upriver to the land of cowboys, bullfighting, and more wine. At the Templar city of Tomar, founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, you’ll see the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Templar Castle and the Convent of Christ.You’ll also explore the narrow streets of the medieval walled city of Óbidos and the renowned Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima, where the Chapel of the Apparitions commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917.

The Alentejo Region of Portugal

When you visit Alentejo, you immerse yourself in the pastoral countryside of Portugal. Expect rolling hills, fortified villages, and beautiful pastures dotted with horses.Enjoy a scenic journey through the Serra da Arrábida Mountains to the amber fields of a stud ranch. Here, you’ll Connect With Locals over a traditional lunch and learn about the Lusitano horses bred for bullfighting.

Next, visit Évora, a living museum where a Roman temple stands a stone’s throw from the Cathedral, built in Romanesque and Gothic style. The Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) is morbidly and memorably decorated with the exhumed skeletons of 5,000 souls. Yet another UNESCO International Heritage Site, this fascinating medieval city reflects the Roman and Moorish rule that has dominated the area.

Evora is the largest city on the Rota dos Castelos (Castle Route), which visits several fortified cities and villages in the area. Visitors on the route enjoy lofty views of the surrounding countryside. For a peek even deeper into history, your Alentejo tour may visit the civil parish of Monsaraz, where megalithic monuments punctuate the landscape in a Mediterranean echo of Stonehenge.

The Algarve Region of Portugal

Cape St. Vincent marks the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, where a windswept lighthouse is perched on a rugged promontory overlooking the site of many sea battles from long past. The gorgeous Atlantic beaches are sprinkled with cliffs and rocky grottoes, and the coastline is rich with bars, restaurants, hotels, and golf courses. Inland, travel through groves of fig, almond, and orange trees. For one of Europe's most relaxing and refreshing travel experiences, visit Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region. 

Your Algarve tour will visit the enchanting resort town of Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia. Tour Lagos to see the winding narrow streets of the old town, the historic city walls, and the municipal market where the region’s passion for seafood is displayed on ice. The Algarve’s seafaring heritage is reflected in the local cuisine. Enjoy the freshest imaginable Portuguese seafood in town, at the waterfront or beachside. One of Lagos’ most famous sons is Prince Henry the Navigator, a principal figure in the Age of Discovery. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal Tours

• Is Portugal in Spain?
  Portugal is an independent country that shares a border with Spain on its north and east sides and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the west and south coasts. The national language is Portuguese, which shares common roots with Spanish.
• Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
  United States citizens can travel to Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa, so our tours of Portugal conveniently qualify. Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned return date.
• When is the best time to travel to Portugal?
  Shoulder seasons are ideal for Portugal trips. Some areas, such as the interior, are very hot in the summertime, and the beach towns attract big crowds of tourists in the summer. Some travelers schedule their tours of Portugal around cultural celebrations such as Carnival, Holy Week, or the major pilgrimages to Fátima on May 13 and October 13.
• How long do you need to see Portugal on tour?
  This modestly-sized country is rich with attractions, so you won’t regret a single extra day you book. We suggest you choose the longest one of our Portugal travel packages that fits your schedule and your budget.
• Is Portugal safe for travel?
  Portugal is one of Europe’s safest countries, scoring third out of 163 on the Global Peace Index. You can book your Portugal travel packages with confidence and peace of mind.
• Are credit cards widely accepted in Portugal?
  Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, especially in hotels and larger restaurants. However, smaller shops and rural areas may only accept cash. Check out this article on exchange rates and using credit cards abroad.
• What to pack for a trip to Portugal?
  Don't forget essentials like travel adapters, a reusable water bottle, and any personal medications. If you plan to visit religious sites, modest clothing is respectful.
• What voltage do they use in Portugal?
  

  In Portugal, the standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. The power sockets use Type C and Type F plugs with two round pins. If you're traveling to Portugal from a country with different voltage or plug types, you may need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter, depending on your device.

• Is English widely spoken in Portugal?
  English is widely spoken in Portugal, especially in tourist areas, major cities, and popular destinations such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Many people in the hospitality industry, such as hotel staff, restaurant workers, and tour operators, are fluent in English. However, in more rural areas, English may be less common, so learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can be helpful.

• What is the weather like in Portugal?
  Portugal generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm to hot summers:

  Summer (June to September): Warm to hot temperatures, especially in southern regions like the Algarve. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with coastal areas being cooler than inland areas.
  Winter (December to February): Mild and wet, especially in the north. Temperatures usually range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The Algarve and southern regions remain relatively mild with plenty of sunshine.
  Spring (March to May) & Fall (October to November): Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These are great times to visit to avoid the peak summer heat and crowds.

• Do I need vaccinations to travel to Portugal?
  No specific vaccinations are required for travelers coming from most countries to Portugal. However, it’s always recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations such as Tetanus, Diphtheria,
  Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), and Hepatitis A and B (optional but recommended, especially for more extended stays or certain activities). If you have any unique medical conditions or concerns, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before traveling.

• Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
  Citizens of many countries, including the U.S., do not require a visa for short stays in Peru. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Check and make sure you’re ready to go with our simple destination guide. 
• Is Portugal a safe travel destination?
  Yes, Portugal is generally a safe travel destination, but like any other country, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and follow standard travel safety practices.
• How many days should I spend in Portugal?
  We recommend spending at least 7-10 days in Portugal to explore its major attractions, including Fátima, Obidos, Porto, and Lisbon.
• How many months in advance should I plan a trip to Portugal?
  We recommend you plan your trip to Portugal between 4-10 months before you want to travel.  Airlines don’t publish fares much further out than 10-11 months. You should look to book your vacation once you can lock in your flights. Luckily, we take care of all of that for you. If travelers want to go for a special anniversary or event, they’ll book years in advance so they know they are set and can let us handle it from there. It’s essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after you’re planning to return to the States and that you have any visas you’ll need to travel. Planning earlier allows you plenty of time to renew your passport or apply for a visa if required. Travel rules are changing daily. Check and make sure you’re ready to go! Visit our travel requirements page to learn more. 

Why You Should Visit Portugal

Our tours of Portugal deliver a rich array of treasures and traditions preserved through the centuries by the Iberian Peninsula’s relative isolation. Seventeen UNESCO World Heritage Sites await your exploration, including Lisbon’s Belém Tower, one of many imposing symbols of Europe’s Age of Discovery. There are many ways to enjoy tours of Spain and Portugal, from a plush and pampered Douro River Cruise through the 2000-year-old wine-growing region of the Douro Valley to walking on the paths of history in Lisbon and Porto to touring the rugged backcountry where cowboys still roam the pastures. Your memorable visits to the Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima, the medieval city of Obidos, the fortified hilltop villages of the Beiras, or the glittering coastal playgrounds of the Algarve will endure for a lifetime.

Our best-selling Portugal travel packages offer many possibilities for the perfect Portugal vacation, with something in every travel style and interest. Whether you crave epicurean delights and the freshest seafood on the planet, ornate cathedrals and palaces, Roman ruins, or intriguing cobbled old towns, Portugal will deliver.