The heritage palaces, beaches, and superior quality of wine are the three reasons the elite visit Portugal. Though there are also diverse activities for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and backpackers.
Witness stunning views on the walking tours as well as from a private yacht. Most visitors like to reserve spacious villas overlooking the sea that offer them comfortable amenities and privacy.
However, booking a tour package is also a good idea to see the popular spots like Lisbon, Algarve, and Douro Valley. Feel pampered with the slow way of living and friendly people welcoming with local cuisine in a fine dining restaurant.
So, as the Portuguese say – Ola Amigos! Let us guide you to the luxury travel in Portugal with a complete itinerary of things to enjoy, commuting options, and a packing list. Also, learn about Luxury Travel in Greece by reading this article.
The Best Time to Visit Portugal
Whoever said that Portugal is not a place, it is a feeling, a vibe, has surely decided to settle in Portugal forever. It is located in Southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, with a long Atlantic coastline adorning it like a crown. This keeps the climate warm due to the Gulf Stream to enjoy surfing and sunbathing.
The winters are also mild, with temperatures ranging between 46 °F to 60 °F. It is in the months from December to February that mild rainfall soaks this land, which is considered ideal for growing port wine.
To watch the beautiful wildflowers and new vineyard growth, visit the place in spring (March to May). Fall (September and October) is considered the perfect weather for wine-tasting trips.
Most visitors crowd around summer (June to August) to enjoy the beaches and islands. Winter (December to February) is the holiday/festival season, with many markets welcoming the new season.
DO YOU KNOW?
One of the more accessible citizenship schemes in Europe, even though many other European countries require a minimum five-year residency.
The Best Things to Do in Portugal
Portugal has a peaceful feel about it. I sit on the terrace overlooking the vineyard there, and I feel cut off from the world.” – Cliff Richard, English musician.
You can consider Portugal as a European place to experience the real taste of a premium lifestyle. High life here means a relaxed environment where locals, as well as tourists, take their sweet time for dining, chatting, shopping, beaching, and of course visiting the architectural marvels.
Some of the main activities that you should definitely indulge in are:
- Private wine-tasting tour in the Douro Valley – It has Europe’s most famous wine regions where wine farming, vinification, and wine-tasting are part of its culture. There are a plethora of wine estates with picturesque valleys, welcoming visitors to the winemaking traditions.
- Charter a yacht in the Algarve – The best views of Portugal are always from the seas. So, remember to charter a luxury motor yacht to explore the caves West of Albufeira, or enjoy sunbathing on the deck.
- Stay in a historic palace hotel – Live like a King or a Queen by reserving a palace hotel or a castle for an authentic mediaeval experience. They are renovated with all modern amenities like a strong wifi connection, bar, room service, horse riding, and more.
- Gourmet dining in Lisbon and Porto – Create loving memories as you spend time with your partner enjoying a fine dining experience with a gourmet meal in Lisbon and Porto. The fantastic seafood, cocktails, and desserts are delightful.
- Private helicopter tour over Lisbon – A lifetime opportunity is to book a private helicopter tour of Lisbon, flying over Carcavelos Beach, the Cascais Marina, and Cape Roca.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
The Portuguese take time to enjoy meals, which reflects their broader appreciation of life’s leisurely pace. So, don’t expect fast service at the restaurants.
The Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Portugal may be a small country, but it is rich in extraordinary destinations that will make you eager to return. Among these destinations, you’ll find an impressive selection of luxury villas in Portugal, offering some of the finest accommodation options available.
Here are the best places to visit in Portugal:
- Lisbon – Find here a rare combination of history and modernity. You can visit the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, and National Museum of Ancient Art.
- Porto – Another dream come true is touring the popular museums, architecture, and religious sites. Some well-known structures here are Porto Sé Cathedral and the Clérigos Tower. But don’t forget to enjoy some beach time at the Silver and Green Coast.
- Algarve –Go deeper into the seas at the Algarve’s 200 km long coastline with golden sand beaches perfect for all kinds of water sports. The natural attractions to visit are Benagil Sea Cave, Ponta da Piedade, and Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
- Douro Valley- the Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes and world-class wine. Book a stay in a luxurious villa or a boutique wine estate, and enjoy private wine tastings, scenic drives, and river cruises.
- Sintra – This charming town in the Lisbon district has natural greenery, castles, and palaces. The main attractions not to miss are Pena Palace, Sintra National Palace, and Villa Sassetti.
How to Get Around Portugal
Getting around Portugal is pretty convenient, thanks to its well-developed transportation network. For those who want to travel in comfort and style, there are several options to explore.
- By Car – Enjoy the wind in your hair by renting a car for a lovely coastal ride on Portugal’s well-developed north-south highway network. Explore the popular touristy spots with convenient parking areas to visit small towns, while stopping by local cafés. You will have to pay electronically at the toll passes, or you can buy a prepaid card.
- By Train – A large network of buses and trains is available in Portugal. The train is a faster mode of transportation and is always punctual. Enjoy riding on trams in Lisbon city as you pass through interesting views along the way.
- By Air – There are five international airports in Portugal and the Lisbon Portela Airport is the country’s largest one. You can easily pre-book a cab from the Airport to reach a hotel or a villa.
- By Yacht – Yachts are used not just for a luxury cruise, sailing the high winds, and smaller boats to see the sea life up close, but also for stopovers at the local towns to walk around.
USEFUL TIP
It’s customary in Portugal to leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants and cafés and round up the fare for taxi drivers.
What to Pack for a Trip to Portugal
Here is the perfect packing list for your luxury travel in Portugal:
- Lightweight clothing – For summer, wear lightweight and natural clothing like shorts, shirts, colorful cotton tops, dresses, patterned flowy skirts, etc.
- Layered clothing – Sometimes the early mornings or late nights can be a bit chilling. So, pack layered clothes such as cardigans, full sleeves light jackets. Light scarves and shawls always come in handy, offering protection from dust and mist.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes – Whether spending time on your private yacht deck or at the beach, carry your flip-flops or beaded sandals to match the vibe of the place. Also, carry breathable shoes to walk around the palaces, vineyards, and cobbled streets.
- Swimwear – The beach is everywhere but carry appropriate swimwear as well as coveralls when moving around the deck area.
- Sun protection– Get sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid skin burns from the harsh sun rays. Also, carry a lotion or a moisturizer to apply at night to keep your skin hydrated.
Bam-Vindo a Portugal!
There is a lot to experience in Portugal that cannot be completed in a few days. This place is one the most visited by international tourists because of its laid-back lifestyle. The stunning views of seas, architecture, castles, and vineyards will call you again very soon.
From exquisite desserts to local bakeries, fine dining places with fresh seafood are served with love and leisure. After visiting Portugal, you will start appreciating nature’s wonders and the outdoors much more than before.
So, say cheers to the Atlantic seas, fine wine, and high living, as you enjoy a memorable trip to Portugal!
