Summer in Portugal is almost here, but if you still don’t know where to go on vacation, or you’re out of ideas for a short weekend getaway , we’ve got you covered.
You’ll find this article in your “Favorites”, with get aways from the north to the south of the country, full of enchanting landscapes and options for all tastes.
Candlelit concerts, waterfalls and natural pools, the trendiest and most secret beaches , inland routes , boat trips or the best spots for stargazing?
The list is long for a great summer in Portugal, but it’s worth it. After all, you don’t have to leave the country to experience an unforgettable summer season!
If you want to do more than drink a beer then take note of these suggestions.
The order is random, but the aim is to show you the variety of experiences that await you. Let’s go?
Table Of Contents
Experiences outside the obvious
Vibrating at the last big summer festival
A summer without music festivals just isn’t the same… That’s why we think this is one of the best experiences to be had in Portugal during the hottest season.
In this context, how about a trip to MEO KALORAMA? From August 29 to 31, all roads lead to Lisbon’s Parque da Bela Vista, with the best music right next door.
Attend a concert by candlelight
In summer, attending a concert is even better, especially because it can be outdoors. Candlelight Summer shows stand out in this regard.
By candlelight and with varied musical programs, these concerts take place in emblematic locations, both indoors and outdoors.
It’s definitely a different plan to make your summer even more unforgettable, with your partner or even with the family!
Take a road trip on the Costa Vicentina
The Southwest Alentejo is becoming an increasingly popular destination for summer vacations.
With a length of over 100 km, our suggestion is that you hit the road and explore the entire Costa Vicentina.
Drive along the N2
The National Road 2 (EN2) is probably one of the best-known roads in the country. This mythical road runs through Portugal from Chaves to Faro.
So we can hardly imagine a better experience to share with your better half this summer in Portugal!
Experiences for nature lovers
Exploring the waterfalls and lagoons of Gerês
The Peneda-Gerês National Park is huge. So, to get to know this part of the country properly, it ‘s best to book a few days’ vacation to explore all its potential, such as visiting the typical villages of Soajo and Pitões das Júnias, or cooling off in its waterfalls and pools.
Contemplating the Serra da Estrela
Serra da Estrela is a passionate destination, ideal for those who enjoy being in perfect harmony with nature.
Near Serra da Estrela, you can find some of the most beautiful Portugal’s most beautiful river beaches such as Loriga, or walk long trails through the mountains.
Visit the Schist Villages
The Aldeias do Xisto route is one of the most beautiful in Portugal, especially for those who enjoy rural tourism.
Piódão is one of the best-known places, but you can also take the opportunity to visit Foz d’Égua, where you’ll find a dream setting.
We’d also like to highlight Aldeia do Talasnal, a magical place with a privileged view of Lousã Castle.
Discover the best swings
For those who like to contemplate magnificent landscapes, swings are an excellent option.
What’s more, you can take incredible photos and enrich your Instagram feed. You can check out our favorites here.
Walk along the most beautiful walkways
From north to south, Portugal is full of walkways that invite you on long walks through nature.
The Passadiços do Paiva, in the municipality of Arouca (Aveiro district), are the most famous.
However, if you don’t want to go that far, you can always explore this route near Lisbon.
Star gazing
The long summer nights in Portugal are ideal for stargazing. If you like gazing at the firmament at night, then take the opportunity to visit the Dark Sky Observatory, in Alqueva.
While you’re at it, extend your vacation and take a road trip through the Alentejo countryside. There are some truly enchanting places that deserve a visit, even in summer, such as Marvão.
Exploring the Benagil Caves
The Algarve is one of our favorite regions, after all, it has some of the best beaches in Portugal and the world.
However, what if instead of “toasting” in the sun you took the opportunity to visit a wonder of nature? This photo of the Benagil Caves speaks for itself.
Visit the Berlengas
Located about ten kilometers off the coast of Peniche, the archipelago of the Berlengas is one of the fantastic places near Lisbon that you really must visit.
It’s a true natural paradise with plenty of activities waiting for you.
Vacations in the Azores or Madeira
And speaking of islands, there’ s nothing better than discovering the Azores and Madeira, right? Each of these archipelagos has its own particularities, but they are equally spectacular.
In the Azores, you can contemplate the endless green of the island of São Miguel and the beauty of Sete Cidades.
In Madeira, it ‘s worth visiting the Laurissilva Forest, or it wouldn’t be a UNESCO UNESCO Heritage Site!
Experiences for toasting in the sun
Diving off the beaches of Arrábida
Arrábida is one of our favorite places… After all, it’s so close and has so much to offer.
That’s why you can always take a weekend to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Arrábida ‘s Arrábida’s best beaches.
Leave everything to chance
If you want to “toast”, in the literal sense of the word, or if you have a free and adventurous spirit, how about trying out this naturist itinerary?
It’s a list of the nine official naturist beaches in Portugal.
Cool off on the river beaches
Do you like to sunbathe but are afraid of the waves? Then take advantage of your summer vacation to explore the best river beaches in Portugal from north to south. Portugal’s best river beaches.
Uncover the ‘secret’ beaches
As our name suggests, around here we love secret things… Naturally, this also applies to beaches.
Instead of sunbathing in crowded places, how about exploring our country’s “secret” beaches? This itinerary is perfect for you!
Swimming in ocean pools
Do you like swimming, but prefer to avoid the sea? You may not believe it, but we have the perfect solution for you!
On the outskirts of Lisbon (and beyond),there are several ocean pools that promise to give your summer a different flavor.
What’s more, here you can float peacefully.
“Sunbathing with your furry friend
If you can’t stay away from your four-legged friend and still want to get a little “color”, it’s best to try one of these pet-friendly beaches.
Experiences for history geeks
Visit Almourol Castle
In summer in Portugal, there are those who prefer to be at one with nature, or stay close to the sea. However, there are also those who enjoy other kinds of experiences.
With history geeks in mind, we suggest a truly magical experience – visiting Almourol Castle, a bastion of the mythical Order of the Knights Templar.
Travel back in time in Óbidos
Óbidos is one of Portugal’s most charming medieval towns. As well as the famous ginginha, it ‘s worth strolling along the castle walls and contemplating the flowery corners of its streets.
Discover Portugal’s Historic Villages
Located in the Beira region , the Historical Villages of Portugal is synonymous not only with traveling back in time, but also with discovering the interior of the country.
There are a total of 12 destinations in this network and each one is worth a visit.
Incredible landscapes, traditional aromas and flavors await you, not forgetting the beauty of the walls and ruins of yesteryear.
Tour the palaces of Sintra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the most romantic of Portuguese towns is full of exuberant palaces just waiting to be visited.
Hidden among the greenery of the mountains or in plain sight in the center of Sintra, if you’re a history and fairy tale geek, then you really must check out our itinerary.
4 parques aquáticos perto de Lisboa para viver o verão ao máximo