Curator’s statement
To me, Portugal is perfect. Within five minutes of being there, I never wanted to leave. I visited Lisbon and Porto with a friend for a getaway in 2021 and I loved both cities equally. It is a photographer's dream; everywhere you look is a postcard. Both cities have some of the best food of any destination I have ever been. In fact- I recently booked a long layover in Lisbon on the way back from a trip to Morocco JUST to have this sandwich I have not stopped dreaming about since my trip back in '21. So whether this is a solo trip, a friend's getaway, or a family vacation- you must consider Portugal! I can't wait to go back.
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Where to stay in Portugal
Memmo Príncipe Real
Polished hillside property in the heart of Lisbon with chic rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
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VIP welcome & amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Torel Palace Lisbon
Located in the heart of Lisbon, Torel Palace is an oasis within the city, featuring a refreshing plunge pool and unique Portuguese gastronomy.
Fora Perks
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Complimentary drink and bottle of wine.
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Welcome fruit plate in room.
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Upgrade to next room, based on availability.
Torel Palace Porto
Located in the heart of Porto, Torel Palace is an oasis within the city, featuring a refreshing plunge pool and unique Portuguese gastronomy.
Fora Perks
- ★
Complimentary drink and bottle of wine.
- ★
Welcome fruit plate in room.
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Upgrade to next room category, based on availability.
Torel 1884
Luxury boutique hotel with individually designed rooms in Porto.
Fora Perks
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Welcome treat in room on arrival.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
Unlock perks by contacting Kim to book your trip.
Things to do in Portugal
Most important tip: Bring sneakers! The hills in both Lisbon and Porto are no joke. It makes San Francisco look like a flat land. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
Lisbon:
Just wander! Lisbon has so many cool neighborhoods to explore. From the old streets of Alfama to neighborhoods like Barrio Alto and Chiadao- walk everywhere! So much beautiful tile everywhere!
Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery- check out Belem Tower, one of Lisbon's most iconic sights followed by a quick walk over to the beautiful Jeronimos Monastery. Make sure to stop by Pasteis de Belem (right next door) for their famous pasteis de nata. If there is a long line- stick it out. It moves fast.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia- the best spot for a Lisbon sunset.
LX Factory- a cool historical industrial complex that houses a bunch of shops and restaurants including one of the coolest bookstores ever- Ler Devagar.
Pink Street- snap the perfect photo at Lisbon's famous Pink Street. Tip: go early in the morning.
Tram #28- take a ride on the most histroic tram ride in Lisbon.
Porto:
Tip: Take the train from Lisbon to Porto. The train journey is around 3 hours.
Livraria Lello- the most BEAUTIFUL bookstore in the whole world! You need to book tickets in advance and the line can get quite long so I suggest going first thing in the morning or book for later in the day.
Porto has of the most gorgeous blue and white tile. Here are my suggestions of the tile you must see!
Capela das Almas
Rua de Santa Catarina, 418.Igreja do Carmo
Rua do Carmo.The S. Bento railway station.
Igreja de Santo church.
Ribeira neighborhood- walk around this neighborhood for one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Porto. Stop down by the Douro River for beautiful views of the city.
Parque de las Virtudes - check out this park for sunset. All the locals come here. Grab a drink at one of the bars next to the park while you wait.
The alleyways around Largo da Pena Ventosa. A gorgeous picture everywhere you look!
Day Trips:
Book a day trip to Sintra and Penace Palace.
Places to eat & drink in Portugal
Lisbon:
Food Tour! I have done a lot of food tours in my day but this one ranks among the best. Ruthy gives you a day you will never forget with over 18 tastings of classic Portugese dishes with plenty of wine pairings to boot. Tip: You must try Green Wine while in Portugal! Not only do you get a food tour, but this also doubles as a walking tour of the Alfama neighborhood.
Time Out Market- remember that sandwich I mentioned? It is in the Lisbon Time out Market. It is the classic steak sandwich at O PREGO DA PEIXARIA. It is literally one of the best things I have ever eaten. The Time Out Market has some of the best dishes in Lisbon and is a great alternative if you are feeling overwhelmed and want the best of the best all in one place. From the croquettes, to the cheese to even the pizza stalls- you cant go wrong here. They even have a designated Aperol Spritz bar! my dream!
Augusto Lisbosa for Brunch- the most delicious (and beautiful) avocado toast!
I mentioned Patel de Belem for pastel de nata- but you also must try Mantigaria. These were my personal favorite.
Ramiro's for Seafood. This is an Anthony Bourdain rec. Need a reservation!
Ponto Final- also one of the most famous and picturesque restaurants in Lisbon. It can be hard to get a table so book in advance.
Hello, Kristof- another great brunch spot in Lisbon.
Porto:
Casa Guedes- Traditional for the most incredible pork sandwiches! So delicious!
Cervejaria Gazela- another Bourdain rec for Portugese hotdogs- called Cachorrinho. I went to the original location.
Fabrica Coffee Roasters- delicious spot for coffee and breakfast.
Need to know
I would love to help you book your Portugal trip!
![Advisor - Kim Reynolds](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711125579/contentful-migration/advisors/image/kimberly-reynolds.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Kim Reynolds
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A solo trip through Vietnam.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portugal.