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Portugal
From the Algarve coast to the northern mountains via ancient cultural centres - come with us to Portugal and explore this sun soaked, warm-hearted land.
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Portugal is a land of rugged mountains, beautiful medieval cities and world-class beaches.
Explore the breathtaking vineyards of the Douro Valley, hike the unique Rota Vicentina coastal trails, or relax in the fairy-tale schist villages of the Serra da Estrela.
For the urban explorer, the chic cities of Porto and Lisbon have a vibrancy and charm that makes them some of most exciting places to visit in Europe.
Learn more about Portugal on our dedicated Portugal Choice website.
Jeep Tours
Our jeep tours are the best way to explore those off the beaten track locations that you’d otherwise miss. Our guides will always have a plan for your day, but our tours are very relaxed and can be personalised to your particular interests.
Canyoning
Canyoning is one of the most popular pastimes in Portugal – a sport in which you scramble, jump, swim and abseil along a narrow river gorge. It’s a great sport for beginners and experts alike, and the Peneda-Gerês National Park in the north of country has some of the most beautiful rivers and canyoning routes in the whole of Portugal.
Guided tuk tuk city tour
Let the tuk tuk take the strain as you explore the seven hills of Lisbon in the company of our guides. You'll duck in and out of the tuk tuk to see the sights, architecture and history of this fascinating city. As it's electric, your guide can describe the passing streets to you as you travel to your next stopping point. The best possible introduction to Lisbon.
Food and wine
Portugal’s cuisine is very underrated. It’s always been wonderfully seasonal; an all important philosophy on food that the country’s never lost. As you’d expect, it’s also very regional; Lisbon has its famous crowd-pleasing dishes - the Pasteis de Bacalhau and Pasteis de Belem, but it’s down her narrow back-streets that you’ll find unexpected seasonal gems like coal-roasted blue lobster and Bulhao Pato clams.
Heading north, Porto’s famous Port wine Lodges are the gateway to the Douro Valley wine region. Portugal’s wines are some of the best in Europe however we don’t see them very often here in the UK as they don’t really produce enough for export. The rural heartlands of Alentejo also produce more amazing wines (including the unique ‘Invisivel’ - a white wine produced from red grapes), and arguably a superior Iberian Pork to their Spanish neighbours just across the border!
Horse riding
The Parque National da Peneda-Gerês is Portugal’s only National Park - a great way to explore the river valleys and high serras is on horseback, and there are trails to suit all abilities.
Cooking
Cook your own delicious meal under the watchful eye of expert chefs.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a wonderful way to experience Portugal’s beautiful waterways. The calm waters of the Caniçada reservoir in the north are perfect for beginners and younger children to get to grips with a kayak. For more experienced kayakers, the upstream rapids of the Cávado river offer some more challenging routes.
Hi Max,
Just to let you know that we had a great holiday which went too fast. Each hotel was unique and amazing and each place gave us new experience and interest.
Glowing feedback on the arrangements which all went very smoothly right from start to finish. Keep performing your magic!
All the best,
Sue
Sue
Hi Max,
Tuktuk ride with Mario was exceptional. Lovely chap and made our trip memorable. This evening in a Fado restaurant was just fabulous. Hotel Solar do Castelo is amazing. After 2 postponements this holiday is truly worth it.
At the moment Archipelago Choice is on a pedestal.
John
John
Where is Portugal?
Portugal is the most-western country in mainland Europe, bordered by Spain in the north and east.
When is the best time to visit Portugal?
Portugal’s mild in the Autumn and Winter, and hot from around May through to November. It can be very hot (+40⁰C) in the Summer months.
How do I get to Portugal?
The UK is well-connected to Lisbon, with direct flights from London, Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh. You can also fly direct to Porto from Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh.
What languages do they speak on Portugal?
Portuguese, and English is widely spoken.
Is it safe to drive on Portugal?
Very – the quality of the roads is excellent and it’s very easy to navigate.
Do I need an international driver’s license for Portugal?
All you require is a valid UK driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Portugal?
We highly recommend that you have the right type of travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents and personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi in Portugal?
All our hotels offer WiFi – mostly in your room but in some smaller places it’s available in the shared, public areas.
Can I use my mobile phone in Portugal?
There’s an excellent mobile reception right across the country.
What is the food like in Portugal?
The restaurants in cities like Porto and Lisbon have a good mix of Portuguese more European style menus, and there’s usually a nice selection of vegetarian options available. In the smaller towns and villages, you’ll tend to find more traditional Portuguese menus.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in Portugal?
Yes, although in more rural locations you can find it’s a bit more cash-only in restaurants and cafe bars.
What type of plug adapter do I need in Portugal?
You will need a type F adaptor in Portugal.
Is tap water safe to drink in Portugal?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink in Portugal.
Do I need to tip in Portugal?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
How do I go about booking my holiday to Portugal with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Portugal?
Our advice is to start planning around six months prior to your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to Portugal?
Absolutely; it helps if you have a bit of flexibility with your dates as some of our hotels might be fully booked.
In our experience these are the best times of the year to visit Portugal:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Portugal’s mild in the Autumn and Winter, and hot from around May through to November. It can be very hot (+40⁰C) in the Summer months.
Portugal is a land of rugged mountains, beautiful medieval cities and world-class beaches.
Explore the breathtaking vineyards of the Douro Valley, hike the unique Rota Vicentina coastal trails, or relax in the fairy-tale schist villages of the Serra da Estrela.
For the urban explorer, the chic cities of Porto and Lisbon have a vibrancy and charm that makes them some of most exciting places to visit in Europe.
Learn more about Portugal on our dedicated Portugal Choice website.
Jeep Tours
Our jeep tours are the best way to explore those off the beaten track locations that you’d otherwise miss. Our guides will always have a plan for your day, but our tours are very relaxed and can be personalised to your particular interests.
Canyoning
Canyoning is one of the most popular pastimes in Portugal – a sport in which you scramble, jump, swim and abseil along a narrow river gorge. It’s a great sport for beginners and experts alike, and the Peneda-Gerês National Park in the north of country has some of the most beautiful rivers and canyoning routes in the whole of Portugal.
Guided tuk tuk city tour
Let the tuk tuk take the strain as you explore the seven hills of Lisbon in the company of our guides. You'll duck in and out of the tuk tuk to see the sights, architecture and history of this fascinating city. As it's electric, your guide can describe the passing streets to you as you travel to your next stopping point. The best possible introduction to Lisbon.
Food and wine
Portugal’s cuisine is very underrated. It’s always been wonderfully seasonal; an all important philosophy on food that the country’s never lost. As you’d expect, it’s also very regional; Lisbon has its famous crowd-pleasing dishes - the Pasteis de Bacalhau and Pasteis de Belem, but it’s down her narrow back-streets that you’ll find unexpected seasonal gems like coal-roasted blue lobster and Bulhao Pato clams.
Heading north, Porto’s famous Port wine Lodges are the gateway to the Douro Valley wine region. Portugal’s wines are some of the best in Europe however we don’t see them very often here in the UK as they don’t really produce enough for export. The rural heartlands of Alentejo also produce more amazing wines (including the unique ‘Invisivel’ - a white wine produced from red grapes), and arguably a superior Iberian Pork to their Spanish neighbours just across the border!
Horse riding
The Parque National da Peneda-Gerês is Portugal’s only National Park - a great way to explore the river valleys and high serras is on horseback, and there are trails to suit all abilities.
Cooking
Cook your own delicious meal under the watchful eye of expert chefs.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a wonderful way to experience Portugal’s beautiful waterways. The calm waters of the Caniçada reservoir in the north are perfect for beginners and younger children to get to grips with a kayak. For more experienced kayakers, the upstream rapids of the Cávado river offer some more challenging routes.
Hi Max,
Just to let you know that we had a great holiday which went too fast. Each hotel was unique and amazing and each place gave us new experience and interest.
Glowing feedback on the arrangements which all went very smoothly right from start to finish. Keep performing your magic!
All the best,
Sue
- Sue
Hi Max,
Tuktuk ride with Mario was exceptional. Lovely chap and made our trip memorable. This evening in a Fado restaurant was just fabulous. Hotel Solar do Castelo is amazing. After 2 postponements this holiday is truly worth it.
At the moment Archipelago Choice is on a pedestal.
John
- John
Where is Portugal?
Portugal is the most-western country in mainland Europe, bordered by Spain in the north and east.
When is the best time to visit Portugal?
Portugal’s mild in the Autumn and Winter, and hot from around May through to November. It can be very hot (+40⁰C) in the Summer months.
How do I get to Portugal?
The UK is well-connected to Lisbon, with direct flights from London, Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh. You can also fly direct to Porto from Gatwick, Manchester and Edinburgh.
What languages do they speak on Portugal?
Portuguese, and English is widely spoken.
Is it safe to drive on Portugal?
Very – the quality of the roads is excellent and it’s very easy to navigate.
Do I need an international driver’s license for Portugal?
All you require is a valid UK driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Portugal?
We highly recommend that you have the right type of travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents and personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi in Portugal?
All our hotels offer WiFi – mostly in your room but in some smaller places it’s available in the shared, public areas.
Can I use my mobile phone in Portugal?
There’s an excellent mobile reception right across the country.
What is the food like in Portugal?
The restaurants in cities like Porto and Lisbon have a good mix of Portuguese more European style menus, and there’s usually a nice selection of vegetarian options available. In the smaller towns and villages, you’ll tend to find more traditional Portuguese menus.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in Portugal?
Yes, although in more rural locations you can find it’s a bit more cash-only in restaurants and cafe bars.
What type of plug adapter do I need in Portugal?
You will need a type F adaptor in Portugal.
Is tap water safe to drink in Portugal?
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink in Portugal.
Do I need to tip in Portugal?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
How do I go about booking my holiday to Portugal with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Portugal?
Our advice is to start planning around six months prior to your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to Portugal?
Absolutely; it helps if you have a bit of flexibility with your dates as some of our hotels might be fully booked.
In our experience these are the best times of the year to visit Portugal:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Portugal’s mild in the Autumn and Winter, and hot from around May through to November. It can be very hot (+40⁰C) in the Summer months.
Where is Portugal?
