Lagos, Lisbon, Sintra, Algarve, Olhão

Portugal Travel Guide

Portugal captivated us with its stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, and incredible food scene. From the dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches of the Algarve to the historic charm of Lisbon and the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, Portugal offers the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and culinary delights at amazing value.

Top Highlights in Portugal

Kayaking through the famous Benagil caves along the stunning Algarve coast

Discovering authentic Pastel de Nata at Manteigaria - still hot from the oven

Exploring the colorful islands of Culatra and Faro from Olhão

Hiking the dramatic Seven Hanging Valleys trail from Marinha to Benagil

Experiencing the fairy-tale Pena Palace in Sintra with ocean views

Enjoying the best octopus and sweet potato at Taberna Sal Grosso in Lisbon

Essential Travel Tips for Portugal

Padaria Algarvia in Olhão - queue out the door means amazing fresh pastries for under 4 euros

Book Casinha do Petisco in Lagos well in advance - possibly the best meal of the trip

Take the 28 tram in Lisbon for a scenic city tour

Visit Benagil caves by kayak at 2:30pm to avoid the worst crowds

Koyo Cafe has the best coffee of the trip - worth the detour

Ferry to Culatra/Faro islands from Olhão is cheap and easy with locals

Suggested Portugal Itineraries

Algarve Coastal Adventure

3 Days

Day 1: Lagos Arrival & Beach Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Lagos, walk to patisserie for amazing Nutella doughnut
Afternoon: Walk to Porto de Mós beach, then scramble to quiet Canavial Beach
Evening: Follow fisherman's trail to Ponta de Piedade for sunset views

Day 2: Seven Hanging Valleys & Benagil Caves

Morning: Drive to Marinha beach, start Seven Hanging Valleys trail to Benagil
Afternoon: Kayak tour at 2:30pm to explore Benagil and other sea caves
Evening: Swim at Praia do Camilo through the square rock tunnel

Day 3: Lagos Food & Culture

Morning: Coffee at local café, explore Lagos old town and surf shops
Afternoon: Rooftop drinks at Mar d'Estorias with guitar music from street below
Evening: Dinner at Casinha do Petisco - cataplana with prawns, clams and pork (book ahead!)

Lisbon & Sintra Discovery

3 Days

Day 1: Lisbon Food Tour

Morning: Pastel de Nata tour - Manteigaria for the best (still hot!)
Afternoon: Coffee at Copenhagen Coffee Lab, explore Pink Street
Evening: Dinner at Taberna Sal Grosso - amazing octopus with sweet potato

Day 2: Historic Lisbon

Morning: Take 28 tram, visit Time Out Market for authentic bifanas
Afternoon: San Justa vertical lift, see Pope's stage setup for World Youth Day
Evening: Free concert at Castelo São Jorge with Benjimim playing - aperols at sunset

Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

Morning: Drive to Sintra, visit Pena Palace with ocean views from the top
Afternoon: Walk to Cruz Alto (high cross) and man-made lakes
Evening: Amazing pizzas with walnuts in Sintra town, explore the markets

Olhão Island Hopping

2 Days

Day 1: Culatra Island

Morning: 9am ferry to Culatra, hot Pastel de Nata from opening bakery
Afternoon: Walk to Culatra beach - long nice stretch, then to Hangares bar
Evening: Return ferry, folk festival with pirates and Moors serving food

Day 2: Faro Island & Markets

Morning: Olhão markets - incredible fish selection and produce
Afternoon: Ferry to Faro Island - cute houses, big Rottnest vibes
Evening: Beers overlooking the beach in deck chairs, wine on rooftop