The Best of Portugal

Portugal, a charming gem on the Iberian Peninsula, offers a rich and diverse piece of history, culture, and natural beauty. Unlike many over-touristed destinations, Portugal maintains its authentic allure, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture genuinely. From its stunning coastline dotted with golden beaches to its historic cities filled with architectural wonders, Portugal promises a travel experience that’s both diverse and deeply enriching

One of the main attractions of Portugal is its relatively untapped potential. Visitors can explore vibrant cities, picturesque villages, and lush landscapes without the overwhelming crowds found in other European destinations. This makes Portugal an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, hiking in Madeira or savoring a pastel de nata by the Douro River, Portugal offers something for every type of traveler.

Planning Your Trip

Time of the Year to Visit Portugal

I visited Portugal during the spring season, which is one of the best times to explore the country. The weather is mild, the flowers are in full bloom, and the tourist spots are not overly crowded. Spring and early summer (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) are ideal times to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Visa Requirements and Travel Documents for an Indian Citizen

For Indian citizens, obtaining a Schengen visa is necessary to visit Portugal. The process at the Portugal embassy can take up to 6-8 weeks, so it’s crucial to apply well in advance. Here’s a list of documents I had to submit for the visa –

• Original passport
• Photographs
• Aadhar card
• Appointment receipt
• Application form
• Flight tickets
• A day wise plan
• Hotel / stay bookings
• Insurance
• Income tax returns of last 3 years
• Personal bank statements of 6 months
• Salary slips of 3 months
• Employee ID card
• NOC from company for travel

Accommodation

Portugal offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. For groups, staying in an Airbnb can be a cost-effective choice. Hostels and guesthouses are also great options for budget travelers, while luxury hotels are available for those looking to splurge.

Food

Portuguese cuisine is both delicious and affordable. Street food and local markets provide budget-friendly meal options, while dining at traditional restaurants offers a taste of authentic dishes without breaking the bank.

Travel

Self-driving between cities can be economical, especially when traveling with friends. We found it cheaper to rent a car and split the costs. An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is recommended. Keep in mind that every state in India has a different process and turnaround time for issuing an IDP. For getting around within cities, public transportation is efficient and inexpensive. Budget airlines also offer cheap flights between major cities like Lisbon and Porto.

Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for a worry-free trip. Ensure that your policy covers health, travel disruptions, and any activities you plan to engage in. Car insurance is also necessary if you plan to rent a vehicle. This is also a pre requisite for the visa.

Getting to Portugal and Getting Around

Major Airports in Portugal

Portugal is well-connected internationally, with several major airports that make it easy to access different regions of the country:

• Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) : The main international gateway, located just 7 km from the city center. It’s the busiest airport in Portugal and serves numerous international and domestic flights.
• Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) : Located about 11 km from Porto’s city center, it’s the second busiest airport and a hub for northern Portugal.
• Faro Airport (FAO) : Situated in the Algarve region, approximately 4 km from Faro, it’s the primary airport for those visiting southern Portugal.

Flights : Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet provide affordable domestic flights, making it easy to travel between major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.

Trains: The Portuguese railway network is extensive and efficient. Trains are a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities. Alfa Pendular trains connect major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro quickly and comfortably.

Buses : Buses are an economical option for intercity travel. Companies like Rede Expressos and FlixBus offer extensive routes across the country.

Car Rentals : Renting a car can be a cost-effective and flexible option, especially for group travel. We opted for self-driving between cities, which allowed us to explore at our own pace. Car rentals are widely available at airports and major cities. This is where we got our cars from.

Tips for Using Public Transportation

Lisbon : The metro, trams, and buses form an efficient network for getting around the city. The iconic Tram 28 is a must-try, offering a scenic route through historic neighborhoods, or the hop on-hop off bus route. you can also use bolt to get cabs quickly to get to specific locations.

Porto : The metro and buses are reliable and easy to use. The city is also quite walkable, with many attractions within a short distance.

Faro and the Algarve : Buses connect Faro to other towns in the Algarve region. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the coast and more remote areas.

Walking is a great way to explore the city centers, as many attractions are within walking distance. Additionally, consider purchasing a travel card, such as the Lisboa Card or Porto Card, which offers unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.

The Places I Visited and What I Did There

Lisbon

Lisbon, the vibrant capital, is a city of stunning vistas, historic neighborhoods, and cultural richness. I absolutely recommend Koppu Ramen if you are into ramen bowls. This place was an experience and nothing I say will do justice to it. Let’s Pastrami is one for the meat lovers that I cannot recommend enough. Get a reservation at both these places or you’ll have to wait for a table.

For breakfast or brunch I do hope you make it to Do Beco and try the best french toast that I have had. If you’re looking for a party, then head over to pink street. I recommend getting there early as the clubs get full pretty soon and you could find yourselves waiting in line to get in.

• Alfama : Wander through the narrow, winding streets of this historic district. Visit the São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city.
• Bairro Alto : Experience the lively nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants offering Fado music.
• Belem : Explore the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Don’t miss the famous Pastéis de Belém pastry shop.
• Freeport Lisboa Fasion Outlet : Located in Alcochete, 30 minutes from Lisbon. With more than 150 brands with discounts up to 70% all year round, it is the perfect shopping destination for those who are looking for great national and international brands.

Madeira

Madeira, an island known for its lush landscapes and outdoor activities, is a paradise for nature lovers.

• Laurisilva Forest : A UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
• Funchal : The island’s capital offers vibrant markets, botanical gardens, and the Monte Palace Madeira. Try the local wine at a traditional wine lodge. You can also hop on a catamaran and sail off to gaze at whales and dolphins.
• Porto Moniz : Formed by volcanic rocks, the Natural Pools of Porto Moniz are the calling card of this picturesque town. Its outline allows the crystal-clear seawater to enter naturally.
• Santana : This town presents a set of unique natural, landscape, environmental, human and cultural values of great interest. From folklore to nature, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
  

Azores

The Azores, an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic, offers dramatic landscapes and unique experiences.

• São Miguel Island : Visit the Sete Cidades and Furnas, known for their stunning crater lakes and geothermal hot springs. Whale watching is a popular activity in the Azores.
• Pico Island : Home to Portugal’s highest mountain, Pico, ideal for hiking and exploring vineyards.

Braga

Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, is rich in history and religious significance.

• Bom Jesus do Monte : Climb the Baroque stairway to this sanctuary for breathtaking views.
• Historic City Center : Explore ancient churches, plazas, and the Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in Portugal.

Lagos

Lagos, located in the Algarve region, is known for its stunning coastline and historic charm. I do recommend a vist to Gelicia – Italian Gelato located in old town. Definitely one of the best I’ve had.

• Praia Dona Ana : Relax on one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, surrounded by cliffs.
• Ponta da Piedade : Take a boat tour to explore the dramatic cliffs and caves.

Albufeira

Albufeira, another gem of the Algarve, offers a mix of vibrant nightlife and scenic beaches. I highly recommend O Teodosio for authentic Portuguese chicken. I suggest getting there early as they make only a limited quantity.

• Old Town : Wander through charming streets lined with whitewashed buildings.
• Beaches : Enjoy the sun and sea at Praia dos Pescadores and other nearby beaches.

Traditional Portuguese Cuisine

Portugal’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors and unique local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Pastel de Nata : A delicious custard tart with a crispy, flaky crust, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can find the best ones at Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon.
• Bacalhau : Salted cod is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, prepared in countless ways. Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with onions, potatoes, and eggs) is particularly popular.
• Francesinha : A hearty sandwich from Porto, filled with various meats, covered in melted cheese, and smothered in a rich beer-based sauce.
• Sardinhas Assadas : Grilled sardines, especially popular during festivals and summertime, often served with potatoes and salad.
• Portuguese Chicken : Also known as Piri-Piri Chicken, this dish features chicken marinated in a spicy chili sauce, grilled to perfection, and often served with fries or rice.
• Port Wine : No visit to Portugal is complete without sampling this fortified wine from the Douro Valley. Try it at a wine lodge in Porto.

Art and History

Portugal’s history and artistic achievements are showcased in its numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites:

• Museums : The National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon houses a vast collection of Portuguese and European art. In Porto, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts.
• Galleries : The Berardo Collection Museum in Lisbon offers a stunning array of contemporary and modern art.
• Historic Sites : The Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower in Lisbon, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, are essential visits. The Douro Valley, known for its wine production, offers both natural beauty and historical significance.

Gallery

Money-Saving Tips

Traveling in Portugal can be affordable with a few money-saving strategies:

• Use Public Transport : It’s efficient and much cheaper than taxis. Walking is also a great way to explore.
• Stay at Airbnbs : Especially if traveling in a group. It can be cheaper than hotels and offers kitchen facilities.
• Cook Your Meals : Cooking at least one meal a day can significantly reduce food costs.
• Visit Free Attractions : Many parks, beaches, and historic sites are free to enter. Museums often have free entry days.

Additional Resources

• Books : “Journey to Portugal” by José Saramago
• Documentaries : “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown – Porto”
• Websites : Visit Portugal, Portugal Tourism Board, tripadvisor
• Apps : Google Maps, Rome2Rio, Duolingo for language learning, Bolt, Splitwise
• Products : A list of my essentials that I do not travel without :
• Stroller : There’s a lot to walk in Portugal and this stroller has been very comfortable not just for my kid but for us too, that comes with storage as well. This also folds down to an easy to carry mode and it also fits in the over head bins on flights.
• Snack box : This box is very convenient to carry snacks for my kid especially during flights and at airports. It has 3 compartments that lets me carry a variety of snacks and fits in the diaper bag without taking up a lot of space.
• Busy board and Toys for flights : How to entertain small kids on a flight? These 2 are small, compact and easy to carry that keeps my kid occupied for hours. We only use these on flights.
• Diaper changing mat : Changing diapers becomes very convenient with this mat providing a clean and comfortable space to lie your baby on especially while you are on the move, providing a germ free space that comes with pouches to store wipes and much more.
• Diaper disposal bags : Easiest way to take care of those dirty diapers after a change especially on the go without worrying about any smells that may discomfort those around you.
• Universal Charger : This one is helpful for any trip to any country. One product that takes care of any type of plug points in different countries.
• Travel Containers : These containers help us carry the different products like specific shampoos or moisturizes for your baby or even for your self, that come in large quantities so you do not need to carry the bigger bottles.
• Rain Coats : Cause you never know when it may start pouring, and this is lightweight and does not take up much space.

Conclusion

Portugal is a must-visit destination, offering a blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Lisbon, hiking in Madeira, or relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve, Portugal promises an unforgettable travel experience. I encourage you to explore this beautiful country and immerse yourself in its unique experiences. Share your own travel stories and tips in the comments below!

---

_{These are of course just my opinions based on my experiences and gained knowledge. Differences in opinions are welcome.}

---

_{Leave a comment below if I have missed out on something you want to discuss.}

---