Portugal
Golden Coasts, Cobblestones & Custard Tarts
Where Every Sunset Feels Like a Secret
Portugal may be one of Europe’s smaller countries, but it delivers beauty, culture and charm in oversized portions. Whether you're basking on the golden beaches of the Algarve, wandering through pastel-painted alleyways in Lisbon, or sipping Port wine as the sun sets over the Douro River, Portugal is effortlessly cool and irresistibly welcoming.
It’s the kind of place where life slows down just enough for you to savour every moment. Medieval castles perch on hilltops, seafood sizzles in waterfront tavernas, and tiled façades catch the sunlight as trams rattle by. Add in friendly locals, stunning natural landscapes, and a food scene to write home about, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect getaway.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders can travel to Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date and was issued within the last 10 years. Simple, smooth, and sunshine-bound.
Key Airports
- Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) – Ideal for exploring the capital and central Portugal.
- Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) – A gateway to the north and the famous Douro Valley.
- Faro Airport (FAO) – Your starting point for sun-soaked Algarve beach holidays.
Spoken Languages
Portuguese is the official language, and while English is widely spoken -especially in cities and tourist areas - it’s always appreciated when you try a few local phrases:
- Olá! – Hello
- Por favor – Please
- Obrigado/a – Thank you (masc./fem.)
- Uma bica, por favor – An espresso, please (Lisbon-style!)
- Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
The Portuguese are warm and gracious - attempting the language adds a lovely local touch to your trip.
Holidays to Portugal
During the Summer
From June to August, Portugal shines with long, sunny days and temperatures averaging between 28–35°C. Coastal areas are breezy and comfortable, while inland cities like Évora can get toasty - perfect weather for beaches, alfresco dining and ice-cold vinho verde.
During the Winter
Portugal’s winters are mild and mellow. The south, especially the Algarve, stays around 15–18°C with sunshine most days, while Lisbon and Porto are cooler but rarely harsh - expect around 10–14°C with the occasional rainy spell.
Top Portuguese Hot Spots
Portugal offers a blend of laid-back living and exhilarating exploration. Cruise through the Douro Valley's vineyard-studded hills, ride the vintage yellow trams of Lisbon, or catch waves in Europe's surf capital, Nazaré. Whether you love history, food, beaches or adventure, Portugal has it all wrapped in warmth and style.
Lisbon – Hills, Trams and Timeless Beauty
Portugal’s capital charms with mosaic-tiled streets, rooftop miradouros (viewpoints), and Fado-filled evenings. Explore Belém, ride Tram 28, and don’t miss a pastel de nata warm from the oven.
Porto – The City That Gave the World Port
Wander its colourful riverside, tour wine cellars by the Douro, and cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset. Gritty, gorgeous, and full of flavour.
Algarve – Where Summer Never Ends
Golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves await in Portugal’s southern paradise. Ideal for family fun, romantic escapes, or beach-hopping adventures.
Sintra – A Fairytale in the Forest
Turrets, palaces and misty mountain air. Sintra’s whimsical beauty is a UNESCO treasure, perfect for a dreamy day trip from Lisbon.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Order the Daily Menu – and Get Ready to Be Surprised - In many traditional eateries, the prato do dia (dish of the day) is where the magic happens. It’s affordable, home-cooked, and often better than the tourist-menu staples.
- Head Inland for Hidden Gems - Portugal’s coast gets the spotlight, but its heartland is pure gold - charming towns like Tomar, Évora, or Monsanto are less crowded and utterly enchanting.
- Pack Comfy Shoes for the Cobbles - Those beautiful patterned pavements? They're slippery and uneven! A good pair of shoes will help you climb hills, stroll the old towns, and stay upright after a wine tasting.
- Listen to Fado in a Tiny Tavern - Fado isn’t just music - it’s emotion. Seek out an authentic Fado house in Lisbon or Coimbra and let the melancholic melodies give you goosebumps. No translation needed.
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
Portugal is a soulful, sun-drenched gem that’s easy to explore and impossible to forget. It suits every traveller - families, solo adventurers, couples, and groups alike. With stunning scenery, hearty cuisine, heartfelt culture and year-round appeal, it ticks all the holiday boxes and then some.
And with Marhaban Travel, you’ll see the Portugal most tourists miss. We’ll show you where the locals go, when the sunsets are at their best, and how to make the most of every magical moment. All you need to do is pack your curiosity - we’ll take care of the rest.
