Portugal: Something for Everyone!

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Advisor - Mindy Levin
Curated By

Mindy Levin

  • Arts & Culture

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Portugal

  • Porto

  • Lisbon

  • Algarve

  • Local Food

  • Local Culture

Mindy in a black top and pink skirt in front of Monserrate Palace Sintra, an ornate building with narrow columns  - Mindy Levin
Curator’s statement

Portugal — idyllic, magical, romantic, relaxing. It has it all from castles, culture, beaches and wine regions to fabulous restaurants. Friendly people, wonderful culture, excellent accommodations, beautiful cities and quaint villages. Truly a remarkable country that surprised me at every turn!

The Fora Difference

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Portugal

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Things to do in Portugal

Water inside of Benagil Cave, a large rounded rock formation with a large opening in the top - Mindy Levin

Porto

  • Livraria Lello: Gorgeous bookstore. Some say it inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter’s Hogwarts library.

  • Six bridges tour: Sail under Porto’s six bridges in a traditional Rabelo boat that was used to transport wine from the Duoro Valley.

  • Bolso Palace: Take a guided tour and see the gorgeous architecture and different designs utilized over its 68-year construction.

  • Day trip to Duoro Valley: Visit several vineyards, have an authentic Portuguese lunch and a boat ride down the Duoro River while viewing the magnificent, breathtaking valley.

Lisbon

  • Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Discovery Monument: Visit all in the Belem area. The tower is a 16th-century fortification. The monastery is an architectural marvel and the monument is dedicated to Portugal’s discoveries.

  • Sao Jorge Castle: A historic castle with spectacular views and gorgeous ruins.

  • Tram 28: A historic tram that takes you through the hills of Lisbon past historical highlights.

  • Carmel Convent: Preserved ruined Gothic church.

  • Day trip to Sintra: See the magical palaces of what used to be the holiday destination of the rich in the gorgeous village. Also visit Cascais nearby.

Algarve

  • Boat ride to Benagil Cave: Take a scenic boat ride along the Algarve coastline and see the cliffs and magnificent caves including Benagil, which no longer allows swimmers in order to preserve its natural beauty.

  • Seven Hanging Valleys hike: Hike the cliffs of the Algarve along the coast for spectacular views and scenery like no other.

Places to eat & drink in Portugal

A view of Duoro Valley from above, with rolling hills, trees and scenic clouds - Mindy Levin

Porto

  • Majestic Café

  • Chama: Amazing prix-fixe tasting menu and a true dining experience! Not to mention fabulous creative cocktails. Reservations are absolutely required and not easy to get.

Lisbon

  • A Brasileira: One of the oldest and most famous cafes in Lisbon.

  • Federico: An old castle turned restaurant. Fun cocktails.

  • Rocco: Beautiful restaurant.

  • Yakuza by Olivier: Excellent sushi.

Algarve

  • Don Gull: Delicious and fun atmosphere, located in Lagos.

  • Restaurant Boneca Bar: Set on the cliffs with magnificent views — a perfect spot for lunch after hiking!

Need to know

Make sure you try pasteis de nata (custard tarts) and sardines if you like them, along with grilled octopus.

Advisor - Mindy Levin

Travel Advisor

Mindy Levin

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portugal. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Becca Santos's guide, Portugal, from North to South: Porto, Lisbon, and the Algarve Coast.