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?
Experiences outside the obvious
Vibrating at MEO KALORAMA to welcome summer
A summer without music festivals is definitely not the same. That’s why we’ve put together this themed guide to some of the best events of this kind in Portugal.
In this context, we particularly want to highlight the 4th edition of MEO KALORAMA, taking place from June 19 to 21 in Lisbon’s Parque da Bela Vista. This year, the festival is coming earlier, but promises the same quality and energy as always.
With a line-up full of big names in music and emerging talents, these are some of the hottest artists: Pet Shop Boys; Damiano David; Father John Misty; The Flaming Lips; FKA Twigs; Azealia Banks; Scissor Sisters and Jorja Smith, among many others. What are you waiting for?
Discover secret destinations to escape the crowds
Discover four secret places in Portugal that promise tranquillity and breathtaking landscapes, far from the usual crowds.
From the submerged village of Vilarinho das Furnas, to the natural pools of Pego das Pias, to the geological phenomenon of the Pedras Parideiras and the impressive Buracas do Casmilo Valley, each destination reveals a surprising side of the country.
These places are ideal for those looking for authentic experiences and moments of pure silence in the middle of nature. Take the opportunity to take a deep breath, explore the trails and broaden your horizons in these little-known corners.
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
Estrada Nacional 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 to take 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 lots 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
Going to Santorini without leaving Portugal
If you’re looking for a different summer destination, explore the white and blue houses by the sea in Burgau, known as the ‘Portuguese Santorini’. This picturesque village in the municipality of Vila do Bispo stands out for its narrow streets, calm beach and tranquil atmosphere, far from the crowds and high prices of the famous Greek island.
The place preserves an authentic atmosphere, with fishing traditions and an irresistible fresh fish cuisine. The contrast between the golden sand and the emerald hues of the Atlantic makes this corner of the Algarve a true invitation for photographs, walks and unforgettable memories.
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.
So you can always take a weekend to dive into the crystal-clear waters of the 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 sunbathing 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 might 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.
