solo travel tour portugal

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Portugal » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Portugal | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Portugal | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Traveling Portugal on your ace might just be the best decision you will make this year.

Seriously, there is not much negative to say about the country. Portugal offers a tapestry of experiences for the solo traveler. From the historic cobblestone streets of the capital to flakey pastei de nata’s in Cascais to the honey-lit coastline of The Algarve, you’re in for a real treat for the senses.

It’s also one of the region’s more affordable countries, with good quality accommodation and food that will make sure your hard-saved cash goes a long way. It’s also considered relatively safe and is packed with friendly locals practically yearning for you to visit. Basically – it’s a win-win-win.

That said, planning a solo trip through this large and diverse country can be daunting. You might ask yourself: ‘ Where to go, at what time of year, and what places should be avoided? ’ But don’t fret; this is where I come in – providing you with the ultimate guide to traveling solo in Portugal – you’re welcome.

Follow along as I help you craft the perfect itinerary, plan out the necessities, and avoid any obstacles, with a dose of hype and excitement to motivate you…

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

5 Things to Do in Portugal When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in portugal, the best travel apps for solo travel in portugal, safety tips for solo travelers in portugal, tips for solo traveling in portugal, how to meet people when solo traveling in portugal, final thoughts on your solo trip to portugal.

Backpacking Portugal is NEVER a bad idea. The country is overflowing with gorgeous natural scenery, dynamic cities, a wealth of culture and history, and some of the most welcoming locals in Europe. 

With this, here are some indoorsy and outdoorsy activities I recommend checking out as you make your way through the country as a solo traveler…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

1. Sip on Portuguese Port Wine in The Duoro Valley

The Duoro Valley is one of the most beautiful parts of the Duoro River. While traveling solo in Portugal , take a trip to the winding terraced vineyards that produce the country’s beloved sweet port wine. The only place in the world where port is legally produced, there is a lot to learn about this generations-old grape blend and fermentation process.

Visit the valley for a day tour and wine tasting , but make sure to stroll through the sleepy countryside villages and towns that line the river, too.

2. Unwind in a Natural Geothermal Pool in The Azores

You have to visit The Azores , a series of islands in the heart of the Atlantic that belong to Portugal. While this might be considered an entirely different trip to the Portuguese mainland, a guide to exploring Portugal would be incomplete without it.

Other than lounging on beaches and enjoying the adrenaline-packed adventures the islands are known for, soaking in a natural hot spring is a must-do here. The Poca da Dona Beija is a hot springs facility with five thermal pools set amongst a tropical landscape. Sign me up!

4. Kayak Under the Benagil Sea Cave

One of Portugal’s most exquisite natural phenomena, Benagil Sea Cave, is a massive cave along the rugged Algarve coastline. Only accessible from the water, you can swim or rent a kayak and paddle into the cave from the shore, passing through a natural opening.

Once in the cave, you’ll be rewarded with otherworldly scenery made up of a massive natural domed ceiling opening up into a near-perfect skylight of blue sky.

4. Experience the Magic of Fado Music in Alfama, Lisbon

You’re undoubtedly going to visit Lisbon if you head to Portugal solo and there are so many things to do here.

The faint sound of Fado music can be heard in just about any big city in Portugal, but the traditional music genre traces back to the 1820s in the capital of Lisbon. Head to the Alfama district to soak up the bittersweet sounds typical of the sorrowful musical genre. 

There are plenty of restaurants and bars that organize performances of the melancholic music in the Alfama neighborhood, where it was supposedly born. 

5. Cruise Through Aveiro on a Moliceiro Boat

The historical Aveiro is known as the Venice of Portugal, for good reason. The west-coast city is set along a lagoon called the Ria de Aveiro, which is known for its intricate network of canals and colorful boats. 

Exploring the city from a traditional Moliceiro boat tour is an incredible way to absorb the colorful pastel-hued buildings and unique art nouveau architecture that dominates the city. Just across the lagoon, the Sao Jacinto is a nature reserve that will make you feel a world away from the historic city.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

One of the most important things in life is to be happy spending time alone. I’ve often found that I spent less time alone than expected when traveling solo in Portugal. 

Whether alone or with a new friend you’ve made along the way, here are five places you just can’t miss as you journey around Portugal:

Going to Porto was one of the best experiences I’ve had as a solo traveler. It’s safe (even as a solo female), accommodation is affordable, and the food scene is off the charts. It’s also super walkable, which, in my eyes, takes any city to the next level of awesome.

The city has a unique vibe that sets it apart from other Portuguese cities. The historic center is dotted with authentic Portuguese buildings, tiled buildings, and winding cobblestone streets, with a different hipster coffee shop or rooftop terrace around every corner. 

First on your agenda, stroll along the Ribeira, which is the historical center and a well-earned UNESCO World Heritage Site. The riverside streets adjacent to the Duoro River are home to beautiful, colorful homes, street tapas, and authentic streetside restaurants.

While painted tiles scatter the country, Porto is the best place to check out the Azulejos. Check out the Igreja do Carmo and Igreja de Santo Ildefonso churches for some epic blue and white tile art. Some even date back as far as the 16th century.

Decked out with art and surrounded by galleries and museums, Gallery Hostel Porto is the place to stay for budget culture vultures. Mingle with other guests on the summer terrace or winter garden and dig into nightly Portuguese family-style meals.

A few days in Lisbon will leave you head over heels in love with the city. Trust me, this is one of those cities you could visit year after year and never tire of. The colorful city is friendly and welcoming and has a unique history packed with beautiful buildings and parks to show for it. Not to mention, the lively art and culture scene. 

Best of all, Lisbon is safe AND one of the most affordable cities to travel in Europe. Here, Portugal solo travelers can really experience the lifestyle, food, and culture without breaking the bank. 

First things first, spend some time wandering the narrow alleyways and hilly cobblestone streets. You never know what cute cafe or magnificent church might await you beyond every corner.

Take a ride on the iconic Tram 28, which passes through the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Graca. Grab a bite to eat at one of the stalls at Time Out Market Lisbon, and end your day with cocktails on one of the city’s many rooftop terraces.

I’ve had more fun at YES! Lisbon Hostel than I can remember at any other hostel. One of the most social backpackers in the city, it’s also super central and fitted with comfortable and clean rooms. Highly recommend!

Faro, The Algarve

Traveling around the Algarve alone is a dream come true. It’s safe, welcoming, and packed with adventures. Most specifically, the city is a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventure-seekers, but that isn’t to say there isn’t something for the culture fan and history buff, too.

Faro is the capital of the Algarve and one of the biggest cities in the area. Make time for all the best things to do and places to explore such as indulging in local seafood restaurants and visiting the historical side of the city.

The city is set amongst some of the country’s most spectacular coastal scenery, with steep, colorful cliffs, neverending beaches, and calm, warm seas. Oh, and Faro has over 300 days of sunshine each year. As you might expect, beach days are a must, and I could have easily spent days on end exploring different beaches, coves, and rocky outcrops. 

A traditional Portuguese villa in the heart of The Algarve’s capital, there are few places as atmospheric as Casa d’Alagoa . With organized sangria and BBQ nights and world-class local hospitality, you’ll walk away with plenty of new besties after traveling solo in Portugal’s Faro.

Lagos, The Algarve

A thriving town in The Algave’s western region, Lagos is a sanctuary for surfers, kayakers, and stand-up paddleboarders. It’s an ocean lovers’ dream, with coastal sites and gorgeous views from just about every point in town. 

If possible, Lagos comes even more alive at night. A huge nightlife scene and a calendar always packed with social events, music shows, live sports, and theatrical performances – there is always something to do once the sun sets.

Driving is the best way to get around The Algarve, but if you don’t feel comfortable renting a car and navigating foreign roads alone, there are also plenty of bus and train options to get from A to B. Take note: accommodation is slightly pricier in Lagos, but that isn’t to say you can’t visit here on a budget.

Made for the solo traveler who likes to party, Cloud 9 Hostel is located right in the heart of Lagos’s historic center, close to the beaches and the revered city nightlife we love Lagos for. Enjoy sundowners overlooking the sea from the rooftop terrace, prepare a family meal with new friends in the kitchen, and enjoy movie nights together.

Just a short drive or train ride from Lisbon, Cascais is a small beach town with an exciting history. Sure, the coastal town is known for its sandy beaches, picturesque fishing port, and perfectly maintained buildings, but it’s also home to the medieval Nossa Senhora de Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace.

Between beach days, spend your time exploring the iconic forts, palaces, and museums. Throw in some freshly caught local seafood, and we have ourselves a winning location for solo travel in Portugal.

Visit the Boca do Inferno for a slice of natural heaven, and grab a bite to eat at the Mercado da Vila – the perfect day in Cascais. Another great thing about this town is that it’s just a short distance from Sintra, where you can visit multiple palaces, castles, and medieval ruins on a day trip.

Designed to feel like home away from home, Ljmonade Hostel is nestled in a residential street in the heart of the old city. Other than the grand house, the hostel organizes hikes, surfing, paddling, yoga, diving, and horseriding adventures, along with family dinners. You won’t even need to try to be social here, and you will still leave with new friends.

Having the right apps for travel makes your life a whole lot easier. Here are some of my personal favs.

• Hostelworld : The top accommodation application for finding hostels
• Couchsurfing : To connect with locals renting out cheap (or even free) accommodation. Not advised for solo female travelers in Portugal .
• Booking.com and Airbnb : Your go-to apps for finding hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering rentals
• GetYourGuide and Viator : Tour applications to find tours and experiences in the area. Make sure to check the reviews
• Tinder, Bumble, Hinge : Dating apps with a ‘friend mode’ to help you meet people in your vicinity
• Travello : To connect with other travelers visiting the same place as you
• TravelSmart : A safety precaution with relevant embassy information, national holiday alerts, and other safety features
• Bolt : Portugal’s equivalent to Uber
• DeepL : Translate: Break the language barrier between Portuguese and English
• The Fork : For finding the best-reviewed restaurants and to make reservations
• Too Good To Go : Reduces food waste by filling your tummy with discounted restaurant food
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card. Learn more about the best SIM card deals for Portugal .

If meeting like-minded travellers is your goal, check out the current popular Facebook groups for travellers in Portugal.

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

Maintaining a good awareness of your surroundings is essential when traveling solo. It’s always better to be safe and cautious rather than sorry. Learning how to travel safely is of paramount importance – wherever you go!

As always, busy tourist centers are often the target of petty crime. Hold onto your bags and use a money belt when using public transport. Always keep your valuables out of sight (or leave them at home altogether).

There are a few scams around. Make sure to use well-marked bank-affiliated ATMs and be aware of accommodation scams while traveling solo in Portugal. 

As a solo female traveler in Portugal, try to stay in a group at night or stick to well-lit areas that are considered safe. Remember – there is safety in numbers. Keep an eye on your drinks, and never accept anything from a stranger. Use marked official cabs or Bolt. You know the drill – trust your instincts.

• Book yourself into hostels for at least half of the nights you plan to spend in Portugal. This is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to meet other tourists.
• Sun Lovers Hostel in Albufeira has all the luxuries of a hotel, with the vibe of a hostel. It’s just a short stroll from the party street and hosts BBQ nights, pizza nights, and beer pong events. One of the most vibey hostels in Faro, Casa Da Madalena is a rebuilt authentic Portuguese house with a staff made up of well-traveled locals and ex-pats. Making friends has never been so easy.
• Sure, group tours might not be your thing, but there is no denying the benefits of meeting other travelers on a tour.
• Plan your trip yourself. While others’ advice, online itineraries, and local knowledge provide a good guideline, you should always make sure to design your itinerary based on what you want to see and how you want to spend your time.
• Take the time to understand the local religion and culture. Locals are always appreciative and more open with those who are respectful. A top Portuguese solo travel tip is to learn a few Portuguese words.
• Prepare for all weather conditions. Depending on where you are and the time of year, the weather in Portugal can change quickly.
• Socialise, but appreciate your own space and time. Traveling alone can be lonely at times and rewarding at others. Make the most of this alone time to spend learning about yourself.
• Organise travel insurance. Make sure you have insurance to cover injuries, illness, lost baggage, and flight cancellations and delays.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Go on a pub crawl or food tour : Whether organized by your hostel or externally, I’ve always found pub crawls and food tours to be one of the best ways to socialize. Let’s be honest: is there a better way to meet and mingle with new friends than over an ice-cold beer or plate of food?
• Stay in a hostel : As mentioned, this is a sure way to meet other travelers, those traveling solo, in particular . Most hostels have common areas like bars and restaurants and also organize tours for guests to join in on.
• Use social media for what it was designed for : Open yourself up to new friendships (in a safe environment) using connections from mutual friends you know from home. Facebook groups and Instagram pages often advertise events and festivals happening in each city.
• Attend local cultural events : Check the calendar for any Portuguese festivals or celebrations. An important Portugal solo travel tip: these events are usually attended by locals and tourists and can be a great way to meet people while also learning a thing or two about the local culture.
• Volunteer : Not only will you be making a tangible change and giving back to a community, but volunteering in Portugal is one of the best ways to meet other travelers. Why not try teaching English in Portugal !?
• Commit to a membership at a club : Especially if you’re in a place for more than a week, join a gym, yoga studio, or shared office space to meet people with similar interests in the area.
• Take advantage of shared spaces : Open yourself up to new communities by spending time in social bars and coffee shops. This is especially convenient if you’re a digital nomad.

Portugal is one of my favorite places in the world. It’s a dream come true for all types of travelers but is particularly wonderful for solo female adventurers. 

Why is it such a top contender for solo travel, you ask? Well, other than an exquisite natural landscape and a history spanning millennia, it’s also relatively safe. Oh, and it’s an incredibly affordable option compared with the rest of Western Europe. 

Speak no Portuguese? No worries, English is super widely spoken, and friendly locals will almost always be willing to help you when needed. It’s this kindness and local warmth that makes it easy to navigate the country solo. Even as a solo traveler, you’ll never truly be alone while traveling Portugal. 

The combination of cultural heritage, exciting history, and natural wonder make it the perfect location for solo travel in Portugal . Hopefully, this guide will help you plan your itinerary, have a good idea of where you want to go and what you want to see, and understand basic safety advice. 

Darren Griffiths

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• PR & Marketing
• Privacy Policy

Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Portugal

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Cultural, Digital Nomad, History, Music, Ocean, Wellness, Wine GatG

If you’re looking for a fantastic travel destination in  Europe that is perfect for solo female travellers, Portugal should be on your list. This beautiful country in Europe offers plenty of activities and attractions for all kinds of solos. When you solo travel in Portugal, you can surf, sightsee, visit wineries and learn about Portuguese history as you visit stunning castles.

I spent a month in Portugal and loved my time here. To help you plan a solo trip to Portugal, I've put together a solo guide including the best places to visit in Portugal, how to get around and recommended tours and accommodations for solos. Just click on the relevant section or read the full article for Portugal solo female travel.

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

Solo Female Travel in Portugal

Is portugal safe for solo female travellers, places to visit on your portugal solo trip, best places to stay in portugal for solos, tours in portugal.

• Yoga Retreats in Portugal

Travelling Around Portugal

• Best Time To Go To Portugal  
• Portugal Airports
• FAQs  

Map of Portugal

• Beautiful Places in Portugal

Related Posts

Travelling alone in Portugal is relatively easy. That's why I've given it 4 out of 5 stars. The Portuguese are usually very friendly people who are passionate about their country, culture, history and traditions which makes for a very interesting and unique culture.

It's also easy to get around and you can get by if you don't know any Portuguese although Spanish can sometimes help in the rural areas if you're struggling with being understood in English. 

Lisbon is a popular choice with digital nomads so you'll be able to meet others here especially if you join the Meet Up platform before you go. Selina is a chain of coworking places and hostels where you can mingle with others and attend their evening events. Portugal is also becoming a more popular destination for the wellness solo with plenty of yoga retreats you can book here. 

Yes! In recent years, Portugal has become one of the safest countries in Europe. Violent crime is almost nonexistent and petty crimes like pickpocketing happen very rarely too.

Portugal is safe and there are no known areas to avoid, but always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when travelling at night.
 Try not to walk around alone in dark or deserted areas, and be aware of your surroundings.

Colares in Sintra National Park

Portugal is located in southern Europe. It borders Spain to the west and north, France on its eastern border, as well as Morocco across from Gibraltar Strait. This beautiful country is home to some of the most stunning scenery in Europe, and it offers plenty of activities and attractions that are perfect for solo travellers.

Portugal is divided into 7 different regions with the most popular being the Algarve in the south, Lisbon the capital, Porto and the north, central Portugal, and Alentejo. I've included an overview of the best destinations for solos below. 

* Before you solo female travel in Portugal, check what paperwork or visas are required for Portugal  

Lisbon is the country's hilly capital. It's built on seven hills so you'll need some comfortable walking shoes to get around. One of the best ways to see Lisbon is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours available. This is a great way to learn about the city's history and culture while getting some exercise too!

The Castelo de São Jorge is a great place to visit if you want to learn about Portugal's history and culture. It was built by the Moors in 1147, but after being captured by Christians around 1250 it became a royal palace for many years until becoming state property again in 1834.

The Jeronimos Monastery is one of Lisbon's most popular tourist destinations and it's easy to see why. This beautiful monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the architecture is simply stunning.

Take a ride on the tram especially one of the historic trams, as they offer the best experience. Lisbon's trams are a fun way to get around the city, and they offer great views of the scenery too. 

Portuguese food is delicious so make sure to sample some local food when you're in the capital. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Lisbon. Be sure to try some of the traditional dishes like bacalhau (salt cod) and Pastel de Nata (Portuguese custard tarts). Take a food and wine tour or cook your own Pastel de Nata in a cooking class with a local baker. 

In the evenings, if you're looking to enjoy some nightlife but don't want to go out alone, you can meet others on a sunset boat party with a live DJ. Watch the sunset in front of the Belem Tower whilst cruising down the Tagus River. 

Tip – If you're planning on seeing a lot of attractions in Lisbon, it's worth considering a Lisbon Pass for 24, 48 or 72-hours. As well as free public transport and entry to the top museums and attractions, you can also save money in selected restaurants and shops too.

The stunning Belem Tower

When you're in Lisbon make sure to visit the Belem Tower . It's one of the iconic photos of the city and is a must-see for anyone visiting Lisbon. It's located on the banks of the Tagus River and offers views of the cityscape. Belem also produces its own version of Pastel de Nata called a Pastel de Belem. Cycle along the river from Lisbon to Belem on an electric bike tour!

Santa Marta Lighthouse in Cascais

Cascais is a small town in the Lisbon region of Portugal. It's known for its beautiful beaches, great restaurants and lovely architecture and is only 30 minutes from the city by train. One of the nicest beaches here is Guincho with gorgeous sand dunes just north of Cascais. If you don't mind walking, take a hike past the marina to the Santa Marta Lighthouse for an amazing photo. 

Sintra National Park

Pena Palace in Sintra

If you want to escape the city, take a day trip to Sintra National Park . Located in the foothills of Portugal's Sintra Mountains, this small town is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and some of the country's most beautiful buildings including Palácio da Pena (Palace on top) which looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale! This is one of the most stunning places I visited in Portugal. 

Central Portugal

Baleal in Peniche

An hour's drive from Lisbon heading up the coast is the small town of Peniche . Peniche is located on an estuary with gorgeous sand dunes which makes it perfect for surfing. The nearby beach in Baleal has great waves, so you'll never be far from some good surf spots.

If you're not into surfing you can visit the Museu Municipal de Peniche to learn more about the history of Portugal and its traditions. The museum is located inside the chambers of the Peniche Fortress.

Get a good view of the town and beach from the Phare de Baleal (the lighthouse) or just watch the surfers catching the waves whilst sipping a smoothie from one of the cafes in Baleal. It's a friendly place to meet other surfers. 

Ericeira is a small fishing village in Portugal that's known for its surfing, seafood restaurants and colourful houses. It has become increasingly popular with tourists over the years but retains much of its charm thanks to the local people who are very friendly towards visitors from abroad.

Things to do in Ericeira include surfing at Ribeira D'Ilhas, one of the most popular beaches for surfing in Portugal and trying some of Ericeira's delicious seafood at one of the restaurants located right by the ocean.

Just 30 km from here is Mafra National Palace (30 km away), an impressive 18th-century Baroque building with over two thousand rooms that was originally built as a royal residence but now houses a library and museum. 

Obidos is a small town located in central Portugal. It has been designated as one of the country's Seven Wonders because of its historic significance and beauty! One of the best things to do here is to walk along Óbidos' medieval walls, which date back to the 12th century.

The walls have been restored in recent years by local volunteers using traditional methods such as lime mortar and hand tools.

Monsanto is further inland. This small village located in central Portugal is known as the most Portuguese village in Portugal. It is famous for its unique and strange-looking architecture. The houses are built between and under huge granite boulders which have been shaped and carved over the years by the wind and rain.

Walk through the narrow streets and alleyways of this charming little village and enjoy the views of the rock formations that make up its buildings.

Coimbra is a city in the Centro Region of Portugal. It's known for its university, which is a must-see when visiting this city. One of the oldest in Europe, the University of Comibra was founded in 1290 and is one of the most well-known universities in Europe. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There isn't that much to do here so you only really need one or two nights.

Northern Portugal

Head to the north of the country and see the UNESCO city of Porto, with its historic centre and baroque churches. Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and is known for its world-famous port wine houses, one of the most appreciated tipples in Europe. You can visit the Port Wine museum to find out more about port wine. 

But port isn’t the only thing to be found here. Porto has many museums and galleries for those who want to learn about Portuguese culture or history. The most famous here is the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis, the oldest in Portugal.

For contemporary art, head to Rua De Miguel Bombarda, a vibrant street with art galleries and cafes. Consider purchasing a Porto Card that gives access to museums and public transport if you're planning to be here for 1 to 4 days. 

Rua de Santa Catarina is the city's main shopping area where you'll find other restaurants and cafes within its pedestrian area. Avenida dos Aliados is a beautiful avenue within the city with grand buildings such as the Porto City Hall with its 70-metre tower monumental tower. 

Porto is a beautiful city and the best way to get a feel for this city is by walking around it. Walk along the River Duoro or explore Praca da Ribeira, one of Porto's picturesque areas. This riverside quarter has Medieval streets and alleyways that lead down to the Douro River. 

Hop on the funicular across the river to see the city from above or take a boat cruise to see the city's several bridges. There are many interesting places nearby that are worth visiting, such as the cities of Braga and Guimarães, or the Douro Valley. It's worth spending a few days here if you're interested in history or culture.

The Duoro Valley

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, there is a region that shouldn’t be missed. Just along the border from western Spain is the area known as Douro. This region is known for its picturesque landscapes and vineyards that produce some of the best port wines in the world.

If you're a wine lover, this is definitely an area that you should visit and it's easily accessible on a day trip from Porto. Day trips usually include wine or port tastings and a boat cruise along this stunning river. This is the Duoro Valley tour I took.

Between Porto and Douro is Cinfaes, on the bank of the river Douro. Here is where you’ll find traditional villages in the Montemuro hills which you can visit and trek to, as well as historical monuments. You can also pick up unique Portuguese handicrafts within this area.

Another area that is easy to reach from Porto is Braga (approximately one hour by train). Braga is a city in the North region of Portugal. It’s the country’s religious centre and is known for its cathedral which is the oldest in Portugal).

Just outside the city is the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a popular pilgrimage site that features a large baroque staircase leading up to a statue of Jesus Christ. It's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in religious history and architecture.

The Coa Valley

Near the Spanish border is the Coa Valley. Heritage here dates back thousands of years, and there is even prehistoric rock art to be found within this valley in the northeast of Portugal. You can find engravings of mountain goats and horses from as far back as 22,000 BC as well as long-legged warriors with tiny heads from the Iron Age. The Coa Valley area is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and archaeological park.

Southern Portugal

The Algarve

If you want to spend your days lazing on sun-drenched beaches, indulging in beautiful seafood restaurants and nights enjoying a wild partying strip, then Portugal’s premier party destination is the perfect place for the beach and party girl about the globe. Albufeira is in the Algarve region of the country. 

This coastal city was once a fishing village and is now one of the popular destinations making it easy to meet other tourists here too. With a stunning Old Town area that’s packed with gorgeous restaurants and chic cocktail bars to enjoy, the infamous Albuferia strip is located only 20 minutes apart from each other. 

Just a 40-minute drive from Albufeira is the city of Faro. The Algarve coast is known for its beautiful beaches, so make sure to spend some time relaxing on the sand while you're in Faro. The most popular beaches are Praia de Faro (a long sandy one) and Praia de Marinha which is known as one of the best in the world. 

* Read more: Best Luxury Accommodation in The Algarve

Cork oak in Alentejo

Alentejo is a region in southern Portugal that's known for its rolling hills, cork oaks, vineyards and olive groves. It's a great place to visit if you're interested in nature, history or wine. Visit one of Alentejo's many charming villages, each with its own unique character and history.

Or take a walk or bike ride through the vineyards and olive groves that make up this beautiful landscape whilst sampling some of the region's delicious wine at one of its many wineries. One of the most popular things to do in Alentejo is to visit the medieval town of Monsaraz which is located on top of a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside.

For the history girl about the globe, head to Evora . Founded by Romans, this city is known for its ancient ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Site cathedral, and colourful tile-covered buildings. Take a walk through Evora's historic centre where you'll find charming cobblestone streets, old churches and houses covered in beautiful Portuguese tile work that feels like stepping back in time!

Make sure to visit the Roman Temple of Diana – one of Portugal's most famous monuments from antiquity! Evora is a great place to visit if you're interested in history and want to see some beautiful Portuguese architecture. 

N.b. Portugal also owns the Azores and Madeira Islands. Read here for Solo Travel To Madeira

Where I stayed in Coimbra

Portugal has all types of accommodation for different budgets. Stay in hostels or apartments in the cities, villas in the beach areas, guest houses or 3 to 5-star hotels. For something a bit more authentic you may prefer to stay in a pousada, a historical building such as a castle that has been restored into tourist accommodation. 

Hostels are a great way to meet other solos when you’re travelling alone and some have private rooms so you can still have your own space too. Hostels that I have personally stayed in and recommend are Selina in Porto , and Selina Peniche , Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel in Sintra . In Lisbon, the best hostels I stayed in are Lisbon Forever Hostel , and New Lisbon Concept Hostel.

I have personally stayed in all of the accommodations listed below and recommend them as solo female-friendly. For all other accommodations, click on the link below and search for the solo traveller reviews. * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in Portugal

Lisbon: Olissippo Lapa Palace – €€€

Is there anywhere better to stay in the capital of Portugal than a 19th-century palace? This hotel is simply stunning and is fit for the royals and Prince Charles has even stayed here! This hotel is one of the best hotels in Lisbon and one of the leading hotels in the world. But it does come with a price tag.  

Olissippo Lapa Palace was also the World Travel Awards Winner in 2019 as the ‘World’s Leading Classic Hotel.’ Simply put, this stunning hotel has the ‘wow’ factor.   Built in 1870, the hotel has three sections; Villa Lapa, the Palace Wing, and the Garden Wing. The hotel is romantic and elegant with beautifully manicured gardens and great views of the city and River Tagus.  * Check rates and availability for Olissippo Lapa Palace

Lisbon: SANA Malhoa Hotel – €€

If you are looking for a comfortable hotel in Lisbon with all the amenities, consider the SANA Malhoa Hotel. The SANA Malhoa is located in the Sete Rios district, just a 5-minute walk from the Placa do España metro station.  

In a contemporary design, the rooms are modern and decorated in light wood with plenty of natural light. They’re also soundproofed meaning that you can have a really quiet night’s sleep. Rooms also come with a safe to lock up your valuables when you go out for the day and there’s also an unlimited coffee machine in your room (you pay €1).

What I love about this hotel is that the staff are friendly and welcoming, the buffet breakfast is delicious and there’s also a Sayanna Wellness & Spa where you can work out, have a sauna or unwind in the jacuzzi.   * Check rates and availability for SANA Malhoa Hotel

Porto: Oporto Lux Apartments – €

I loved this apartment with its luxury design and living wall concept. The apartment was really clean and light. The bed and sofa were really comfortable and the kitchenette had everything I needed to cook my own meals.

It’s also close to the famous Lello Bookshop, plus it’s just a 2-minute walk from bars and restaurants so it’s a great place to stay if you want to go out in the evenings.   It really felt like a taste of luxury for a few nights. The apartments don’t have the name on the outside and look like a residential building so don’t get lost finding them as I did.   * Check rates and availability for Oporto Lux Apartments

The Algarve: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa – €€

This clifftop accommodation is where I stayed in the Algarve. As well as fantastic views, a choice of bars and an infinity pool, one of the best features of this five-star hotel is the 2 Michelin-starred restaurant offering sumptuous cuisine, and there is also a wine cellar containing vintage finds. If you’re into health and wellness, you can pamper yourself in the spa or practise yoga and meditation (there’s even aerial yoga).

Situated in an expansive 50-hectare estate, since it opened in 1992, it has quickly become the pinnacle of luxury accommodations in the area and through the years. Even in spite of the introduction of newer names, it has remained unmatched and one of the best places on the Algarve to stay. Choose from a double room, premium suite or premium suite with a terrace. *  Check rates and availability for: Vila Pita Parc

Take a day trip to the Duoro Valley from Porto

G Adventures Portugal

Travel to Portugal on your own and you'll be able to navigate your way around but if you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your Portugal trip or the whole duration, G Adventures is a responsible tour company that mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most tours to Portugal have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit.

Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. Trips start from a 7-day Highlights of Portugal tour starting in Lisbon and ending in Porto. Or spend 8 days on the Discover Portugal trip that also includes Evora.

If you are planning to include Spain on your itinerary, they also have a 14-day adventure experiencing the Best of Spain & Portugal or join their 10 days 18-to-thirtysomethings Spain and Portugal tour. There are several variations to choose from. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company.  * Check rates and availability for G Adventures tours

Lisbon Free Walking Tour – Walking tours are ideal for meeting others and getting an overview of the city. Lisbon’s Free Tour runs twice a day in the mornings and the afternoons and is free to join. If you enjoy the tour, you just tip at the end! The tour lasts 2.5 hours and takes you to Lisbon’s most important sites.   * Check rates and availability for Lisbon walking tour

Portugal Day Tours

Make sure you take a day trip to Sintra National Park. It's stunning!

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in worldwide destinations including Portugal. Choose from a Lisbon sunset sailboat tour with drinks, a Pena Palace and park entrance ticket , a live Fado show with a glass of port wine or a dolphin watching and cave tour in the Algarve.

They use local tour companies and guides and there are several to choose from including Douro Valley tours (which I booked through here). Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo and it's really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. Read my review here or click the link below for all tours.   * Check rates and availability for all Get Your Guide Portugal tours

Yoga Retreats in Portugal  

I love the Book Yoga Retreats platform . I booked my last yoga retreat in Portugal through them and found it really easy to use. I stayed at Oasis Backpacker’s in Sintra for 4 days and recommend the yoga teacher.

This complex has everything you need from a supermarket to a Nomad Cafe selling smoothies, a pizza restaurant and the best sushi restaurant. The beach is just a short walk away too. For 4 days/3 nights, this yoga holiday costs €275.  * Check availability for 4 days mini yoga holiday in Sintra

For other yoga retreats, Book Yoga Retreats list yoga and meditation retreats all around the world so you can find the perfect duration for you whether you're searching for a 3-day weekend retreat in Portugal or a week-long surfing and yoga retreat. Search by days, destination, price or most popular.   * Check rates and availability for all yoga retreats in Portugal  

Portugal is a great country to travel around by car and hiring a car is the best way to get around Portugal. The roads are well-maintained, there is lots of parking available and plenty of places to stop and visit along the way.

If you do drive, be aware that the roads around Sintra National Park are mountainous and windy so you may feel more comfortable getting local buses for this region. I have previously used Discover Cars and recommend them. * Check prices for car hire in Portugal

If you don't want to hire a car, you can also get around using trains and buses. Train travel is comfortable and convenient, but it can be expensive depending on where you want to go. You can take the train from Lisbon to Cascais and Sintra National Park for example. To get to the more rural areas such as Peniche you'll need to take a bus.

Buses are a great way to get around, especially if you're not comfortable driving on the right side of the road. The Rede Express bus network is extensive and covers most of the country.

There's also Flix Bus which is a cheap alternative to the Portuguese buses. You can travel from Lisbon to Porto with them. 

* Check destinations and times for trains and buses for Portugal

Best Time To Go To Portugal

Portugal is okay to visit any time of year depending on the activities that you want to do. The best time to visit Portugal is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September and October) when the weather isn't too hot and there are fewer tourists around. If you enjoy Christmas markets, you may prefer to visit Lisbon in December when the city is decorated with Christmas lights.  

If you’re planning on surfing in Portugal and you’re a beginner, May to September are good months to visit. For the more powerful swells, the best time is the end of the winter to the beginning of the spring.  

The winter months can be quite cold and rainy so be prepared that it may be cold inside some of the buildings as heating doesn’t seem to be very common. Especially in the northern part of Portugal such as Porto. The Algarve tends to be hotter so head to the south if you’re looking for heat.

The weather chart below shows the annual temperatures from January to December for Lisbon.  

To and From Portugal Airports

Here are the three busiest airports in Portugal. 

Lisbon Airport: This is the main international airport in Portugal and is located just outside of Lisbon. A taxi into the city will cost you approximately €14 for the 8-minute journey. Buses cost between €5 – €15 and take 12 minutes or you can catch the metro which can be the cheapest option at €7 and takes 16 minutes. Check here for how to get to and from Lisbon Airport. 

Porto Airport: The main airport in Porto is called Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) and is 6 miles away from the city centre. A taxi to or from Porto Airport from the city will cost approx €25 and takes 20 minutes (depending on traffic).

The metro is the cheapest option at €3 which leaves every 30 minutes and takes 27 minutes, or you can take a bus costing up to €14 for the 30-minute journey. Check here for how to get to Porto Airport.

Faro Airport: This is the main airport in the Algarve region and serves many international flights. A taxi from here into Faro will cost you approximately €12 for the 7-minute journey or take the bus for €4 which takes 18 minutes. Check here for how to get to Faro Airport.

Can I drink the water in Portugal?

The water in Portugal is generally safe to drink, but it's always best to stick with bottled water just in case. You can find bottled water almost everywhere in Portugal, so you won't have any trouble finding it.

Is tipping expected in Portugal?

It is not expected to tip in Portugal, but it's always appreciated! If you do want to thank someone for their service or kindness then it's good manners to leave a few euros behind. The average tip amount is around €0.50 per person at restaurants and cafes; however some people like giving more depending on how much they've enjoyed the service.

Is Portugal good for vegetarians?

Portugal is not the best place for vegetarians or vegans, as many of their dishes contain meat. However, you should be able to find something that suits your needs. Happy Cow has a list of vegan restaurants in Portugal .

Just make sure that when ordering at restaurants they don't add any non-vegetarian items like chicken broth or eggs into vegetarian dishes such as risotto or pasta without asking first.

Are there ATMs in Portugal?

Yes, there are plenty of ATMs all over Portugal. Just make sure that you have your debit or credit card on hand as not all machines accept foreign cards. You'll be able to find an ATM in most towns and villages, as well as at the airport and train stations.

What language do they speak in Portugal?

The Portuguese language is one of the most spoken languages in the world and has over 250 million speakers worldwide. It's a Romance language that's derived from Latin, so it's quite similar to Spanish and Italian. If you're planning on travelling to Portugal, then it's definitely worth learning a few basic phrases!

What is the currency? The currency in Portugal is Euro (EUR).

• Solo Travel in Madeira
• Where To Stay in The Algarve
• Travel Resources For Solo Travellers
• Solo Travel in Europe

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your Solo Travel Journey….

Most popular post, g adventures review, join our gatg facebook community, contact us....

[email protected]

Search the site...

The small print....

Girl about the Globe Copyright © 2012-2024

Web by Eldo Web Design Ltd

The solo traveler’s guide to Portugal

Solo travelers are discovering the thrill of exploring the world on their own on Solo Tours . If it’s on your bucket list to do just that, why not make that dream come true in Portugal? As Portugal’s tourism popularity continues to rise, so does the number of solo travelers who come to visit. They’re taking advantage of the locals’ warm hospitality, the incredibly rich culture, and the unforgettable culinary delights. Check out our tips for things to do in Portugal as a solo traveler.

Explore tours of Portugal

4.8 out of 5 stars

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.9 out of 5 stars

4.6 out of 5 stars

5 out of 5 stars

4.5 out of 5 stars

4.3 out of 5 stars

Read more solo travel tips

• Europe Tours
• Portugal Tours

Portugal Solo Trips and Holidays 2024/2025

Prepare for a stress-free and enticing solo trip to Portugal with activities catered to solo travelers. Challenge yourself by trying new activities like surfing, hiking, or learn to play the traditional Portuguese guitar. You can also go hiking from the lush forests of Sintra to the stunning cliffs of the Algarve. Or immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich culture by attending local festivals, trying regional wines, and learning about traditional crafts like pottery. Portugal is one of the safest destinations in the world. People are extremely friendly, and they will make you feel right at home. And with carefully curated Portugal solo tour itineraries, you will find plenty of opportunities to explore places, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply unwind at your own pleasure. Build a personalized itinerary for a solo travel experience with a customized trip to Portugal . Or check out our solo trips to Sweden below.

• Best Time To Visit Portugal

270 solo trips in Portugal

• Starts Lisbon, Portugal
• Ends Porto, Portugal

Highlights of Portugal

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Local culture & Art and architecture Local culture , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='10596'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Train, Private Vehicle & Boat
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Jun 02 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 23 Only 2 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Lisbon, Portugal

Best of Portugal in 7 Days

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='21592'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 1-80 yrs
• Operated in English, Portuguese, Spanish

Best of Portugal

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='20970'>+2 more
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,395
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 330
• Total Price from: US$ 2,065
• May 24 Only 5 seats left
• May 29 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Porto, Portugal

Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Transport Ferry & Train
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,842
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 147
• Total Price from: US$ 2,695
• May 19 Only 1 seat left
• May 26 Only 1 seat left

Lisbon Cultural Experience, City Break, 4 Days

• Activities Art and architecture & Explorer Art and architecture , Explorer & Getaways and short breaks 'data-more-tripid='33368'>+1 more
• Transport Bus & Minibus
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish, Portuguese
• Brochure Price: US$ 611
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 92
• Total Price from: US$ 519
• May 27 Only 10 seats left
• May 28 Only 10 seats left

• Activities Walking tours & Art and architecture Walking tours , Art and architecture & Wine tasting tours 'data-more-tripid='17266'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Train, Bus, Boat, Ferry & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,060
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 200
• Total Price from: US$ 1,860
• May 19 Only 7 seats left
• May 26 Only 8 seats left

Discover Portugal

• Activities Local culture & Art and architecture Local culture , Art and architecture , Farm and plantation visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='18530'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Jun 30 Only 5 seats left
• Jul 07 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Madalena, Portugal
• Ends Horta, Portugal

Walking in the Azores

• Activities Wildlife & Trekking and Hiking Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Nature and bush walks , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7915'>+3 more
• Transport Ferry & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,223
• Special Deal (7%): - US$ 223
• Total Price from: US$ 3,000
• Jun 15 Only 4 seats left
• Jul 20 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Vilarinho De Sao Romeo, Portugal

Douro Rambler

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Boat, Train & Taxi
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• May 16 10+ seats left
• May 17 10+ seats left

Country Roads of Portugal

• Activities Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Food tours 'data-more-tripid='21194'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Luxury Hotel
• Transport Coach & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,191
• Special Deal (13%): - US$ 400
• Total Price from: US$ 2,791
• May 24 Only 7 seats left
• May 31 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Santana, Portugal
• Ends Funchal, Portugal

Walking in Madeira

• Activities Walking tours & Natural landmarks sightseeing Walking tours , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Mountains & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='17415'>+2 more
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,330
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 130
• Total Price from: US$ 1,200
• Jun 08 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 15 Only 1 seat left

Picturesque Portugal

• Activities Adventure & Explorer
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,425
• Special Deal (21%): - US$ 300
• Total Price from: US$ 1,125
• May 26 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 09 10+ seats left

Wonders Of Portugal

• Activities Art and architecture & Getaways and short breaks
• Brochure Price: US$ 750
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 113
• Total Price from: US$ 637
• May 23 Only 10 seats left
• May 24 Only 10 seats left

Lisbon Cultural Experience, City Break, 6 Days

• Activities Art and architecture & Explorer
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,043
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 156
• Total Price from: US$ 887

Traveling to Portugal alone? Chat with a local travel expert in Portugal who can help build the perfect solo trip in Portugal.

Portugal Solo Trip Reviews

• Diana Chenoweth

Solo trips and solo holidays

• Europe solo trips
• Balkans solo trips
• Baltic solo trips
• Eastern Europe solo trips
• Mediterranean solo trips
• Northern Europe solo trips
• Scandinavia solo trips
• Uk And Britain solo trips
• Portugal trips
• Portugal budget tours
• Eco tours in Portugal
• Portugal guided tours
• Portugal family tour packages
• Portugal luxury tours
• Portugal private tours
• Portugal self-guided tours
• Portugal small group tours
• Portugal tailor-made vacation packages
• Portugal tours for senior citizens
• Portugal tours for young adults
• Portugal group tours
• Portugal last minute deals
• Portugal travel deals

Portugal upcoming departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Solo Travel In Portugal: The Ultimate Guide (From A Local)

By Allison Baxley. This guide to traveling alone in Portugal contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking to experience  solo travel in Portugal  for yourself, but need help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

Traveling solo in Portugal is easy, safe, and incredibly rewarding. For such a small country, you can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time and enjoy an impressive array of historical landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences.

From castles, palaces, and old-world cities to beaches, waterfront hiking trails, and vineyard-flanked rivers, the country really has it all.

And that is just the beginning of what to look forward to when you visit Portugal .

Keep reading to discover some of the best destinations and attractions to fit into your Portugal solo travel itinerary.

As a local, I’m excited to share some of the many special experiences you can have here as well as insider tips that can help make female solo travel in Portugal safe, fun, and truly unforgettable.

⏳ Short on time? Here are some quick tips for traveling alone in Portugal: ☔ Safety: While Portugal is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🚗 Renting A Car: Discover Cars  (save up to 70% using their comparison tool!) 🚅 Train Travel: Omio 🎉 Experiences: Viator (tours), GetYourGuide (tours), Fever (events), and EatWith (cooking classes & dining in local homes) 🏨 Accommodation: This map can help you pinpoint top-rated and budget-friendly accommodation in the Portuguese cities you’re visiting solo. It’s currently set to Baixa, Lisbon, but you can easily change it to your intended destination in Portugal. 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust) 📞  Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Travel Portugal Solo With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our solo travel Portugal guide, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first ever solo trip and exploring the world alone. If you want to know how to travel solo in Portugal, it can help.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose a good destination
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on for a Portugal solo travel itinerary and tips.

Is Portugal Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Portugal is one of the best female solo travel destinations. Not only is the country one of the safest in the world, but its vibe is also very laid back, immediately putting you at ease. Plus, the ultra-friendly locals will instantly make you feel at home.

Violent crime in Portugal is very low, and other than typical precautions travelers should take, Portugal female solo travelers don’t need to worry about exploring this beautiful country safely. 

Portugal also has tons to offer those traveling alone. Digital nomad communities, expat groups, and social clubs offer frequent opportunities to meet other solo travelers and locals to plan activities or meetups.

The country is packed with culture, history, beautiful landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, great local food, delicious wine, and friendly people. No matter which corner of Portugal you decide to explore, you won’t regret planning a visit. In fact, a solo trip to Portugal will likely leave you wishing you could move to Portugal !

Where Is Portugal?

Portugal is part of Western Europe; but it has only recently been discovered by American tourists in the last few years, despite being a popular respite from the cold for European travelers for much longer.

Located on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula west of Spain and south of France , Portugal shares history and a border with Spain, but it has a unique identity all its own just waiting to be discovered by visitors.

Getting To Portugal

Portugal has three international airports to choose from depending on whether you want to start your adventure in the:

• north (Porto) – Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto Airport)
• south (Faro) – Faro International Airport
• the capital (Lisbon) – Lisbon Portela Airport (Lisbon Airport)

Lisbon Airport is the most popular in the country and is usually the cheapest to fly into. TAP Airlines also offers stopovers in Porto and/or Lisbon if you’re laying over on your way to another solo travel destination.

They are one of the only airlines that will allow you to stop over on your way to and from your destination. This could allow you to stop over in Lisbon and Porto to bookend another trip!

Getting Around Portugal As A Solo Traveler

Portugal offers several modes of transportation for solo female travelers. Trains, planes, and automobiles are all great ways to get around this relatively small country.

The rail system runs from north to south and through the most popular regions like the Algarve and can get you to popular spots like Cascais and Sintra.

Lisbon and Porto both have great subway systems as well as historic trams and extensive bus routes.

And there are many low-cost bus routes to take you around the whole country. 

By far, the best way to see off-the-beaten-path locations is to rent a car and drive yourself. Driving in Portugal is relatively easy as long as you don’t mind navigating narrow roads and steep hills. Roundabouts are plentiful, and the tollways are exquisitely maintained making travel on them quick and easy. 

How to rent a car in Portugal

Need to rent a car for your Portugal solo trip? Check out Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Tips for renting a car and driving in Portugal

• Don’t rent a car in Lisbon and Porto—use public transportation and/or walk
• Do get full-coverage insurance—as you never know what can happen while driving in a foreign country
• Do splurge on the Via Verde toll tag if you plan to drive a lot as it will save you loads of time not having to stop and dig out your coins at the plentiful toll stations
• Automatic cars are available but can cost significantly more—go stick if you can handle it
• Portuguese drivers like to go fast, so stay to the right if you can’t keep up
• Americans do not need an international driver’s license—a valid American driver’s license is accepted

Portugal Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land for exploring this wonderful country, here is a map:

It has some of the main points of interest mentioned in this Portugal solo female travel guide pre-plotted to make it easy for you to transfer to your phone and start exploring.

Solo Travel In Portugal: Where To Go

Now let’s discuss where to actually go during solo travel in Portugal. While there are many options for great destinations, a few top picks include:

When it comes to the best places to visit, most international flights land in the country’s famous capital city , Lisbon, and this is a great place to start your solo female adventure in Portugal. 

There are many museums to peruse, such as the Azulejo Tile Museum or the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT), which are both very much worth visiting.

Ride the historic 28 Tram to glimpse some of the city’s best sights, or stroll through the Graça neighborhood to check out some of the incredible street art.

Miradouros , or viewpoints, are everywhere throughout this city of seven hills. Book an electric eco-tuk tour and allow your guide to show you to some of the best miradouros in Lisbon. 

If you’d rather shop ’til you drop, wander around the Chiado neighborhood or head further north to Avenida da Liberdade for high-end ateliers.

Walking is one of the best ways to see Lisbon, but there are also public transport trams and the subway if you prefer.

Of course, you can always hire a car using Uber or Bolt (Portuguese Uber). Getting around safely is easy, even at night.

If you’re feeling peckish, book a local food tour or head down to Time Out Market Lisbon to grab a bite at one of the local vendors and then walk along the waterfront toward Praça do Comércio to take in the view across the river to Almada. From there, meander through the cobblestone streets and hills of popular nearby neighborhoods like Baixa , Alfama , and Chiado . 

A quick train or ferry ride will take you across the river to the Setúbal Peninsula where there are amazing beaches along the Costa da Caparica , or take the 40-minute train ride along the coast to  Cascais for a beach day in this charming seaside town.

Fairytale Sintra is only an hour’s train ride away, where you can while the day away in the myriad castles, palaces, and gardens.

Solo travel in Lisbon can be as fast-paced or as slow as you like. Portuguese people are notorious for living slowly and enjoying the moment. 

Lisbon Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Lisbon . Lisbon Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Lisbon .

Once you’ve experienced the cosmopolitan vibes of Lisbon, rent a car or take the 3-hour train ride to magical Porto to enjoy its riverside setting.

Book a hotel overlooking the Douro River, sip Port wine, eat a francesinha (layered, meat-filled sandwich covered in melted cheese and a tomato-based sauce), and head across the river to the city of Vila Nova da Gaia to explore the Port wine caves (storage cellars offering tours and tastings).

Walking tours are popular in Porto—and Lisbon for that matter—and there are several companies that offer a free walking tour each morning at a designated meeting point. It’s a great way to see the city from the eyes of a local and a great way to start the day!

An unmissable adventure is a day trip to the Douro Valley to visit the wineries and do a Port wine tasting.

There are several ways to get there, but the most popular day trip from Porto is a Douro River cruise . Some options offer multiple winery stops plus lunch and tastings as you take the day to wonder at the beautiful landscape of hillside vineyards. It truly is a sight unlike any other in the world!

In terms of how long to stay, it’s recommended to spend a minimum of 3 days in Porto to experience the top highlights.

Porto Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Porto . Porto Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Porto .

The Algarve

No solo female travel in Portugal experience would be complete without a stop, or two, or three in the Algarve region, which is a top pick when it comes to solo beach vacations .

Take the scenic drive through the center of the country along the A1 which connects north to south, or hop on a quick flight from Porto to Faro. From there you can pick up a rental car or use the rail system to explore.

The southern coast of Portugal, also known as the Algarve, has been attracting European holidaymakers and expats for a while; but, in recent years has become more popular with Americans as well.

Temperate weather year-round makes it a great place to visit no matter when you go. In fact, visiting the Algarve in the off-season can allow you to avoid the crowds and enjoy some of Europe’s best beaches all to yourself. How’s that for a solo travel win? 

Popular Algarve destinations include Lagos , Albufeira , Portimão , and Tavira , but you can’t go wrong with any town in this area, as they all offer an amazing time.

Algarve solo travel can be amazing as you have the freedom to explore all the different and unique towns. Each one has its own distinct character, so it can be fun to beach-hop through several until you find the one that’s right for you. 

Algarve Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in the Algarve . Algarve Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in the Algarve .

More Popular Travel Destinations In Portugal

The islands of the azores & madeira.

Madeira and Azores solo travel has skyrocketed as the islands have become more well-known. These are both popular hiking and outdoor destinations, so if getting back to nature is your goal you must make time to enjoy a few days of Portuguese island life.

Also, if you’re interested in exploring eco-tourism in Portugal , both of these destinations have many options.

First of all, the Azores is the world’s first archipelago certified as a Sustainable Tourism Destination under the  EarthCheck Sustainable Destination program .

Moreover, Madeira has numerous eco-friendly experiences, like visiting The Laurisilva  (Laurel Forest), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive biodiversity. It also plays an important role in maintaining the island’s hydrological balance.

There is a lot to do on this island, and you could easily spend a week in Madeira or more if you have the time to allot!

Azores Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in the Azores . Azores Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in the Azores . Madeira Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Madeira . Madeira Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Madeira .

Silver Coast

An under-the-radar area in Portugal, the Silver Coast has beautiful beaches, charming towns, and a bit more authenticity than some of the more touristy areas. It’s a great destination for a beach holiday alone .

Check out the big waves at Nazaré , or go for a more casual surf at some of the best surf beaches in Portugal — Peniche and Ericeira . The latter is home to some of the best yoga and surf retreats in Portugal .

Caldas da Rainha is nearby and offers a taste of authentic Portuguese life, and Óbidos is a medieval walled castle town that will make you think you’re in a Disney movie. 

Silver Coast Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Nazare . Silver Coast Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Nazare .

Tips For Taking A Solo Trip To Portugal 

There is no shortage of places to visit, day trips to take, castles and palaces to Instagram, traditional and trendy restaurants to try, and experiences to have when traveling Portugal solo.

Renting a car is the absolute best way to get off the beaten path when you visit Portugal. While the rail and bus systems are great, there are many magical places to see in the country that are quite far from the nearest train station.

That being said, because they are not as easily accessed by public transportation, they usually have fewer crowds and feel more special!

And as a bonus for solo travelers willing to self-drive, you’re the only one in charge of where to go next. That kind of freedom and flexibility goes a long way in a small country like Portugal. You could see all four corners in just a few weeks if you put the pedal to the metal. It’s one of the main benefits of solo travel .

As with any trip, practice caution, especially at night, in crowded tourist spots, and when you find yourself completely alone. You might also pack some travel safety essentials .

That being said, in general, Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world and offers a safe environment.

Costs Of Solo Travel To Portugal

Accommodation.

While Portugal can be much cheaper than other Western European countries, it is really only as cheap as you make it.

One thing to love about travel in Portugal is that there are always options from low- to high-end. A hostel can cost as little as €20, and a 5-star hotel or resort can run more than €300 per night.

Vacation rentals tend to be on the cheaper side compared to hotels and the amount of space you can get, but if you’re staying in some of the most popular locations during peak season, be prepared to pay for quality.

The cost of food in grocery stores tends to be much cheaper than in the U.S., especially when you consider organic products; however, restaurants run the gamut.

A traditional Portuguese lunch of soup, main, dessert, and either coffee or a beer/glass of house wine can cost as little as €6-10, while an organic brunch dish can double that.

There are a million local Portuguese restaurants to choose from, and amazing seafood can be cheaper if you choose the right place; but, you can also find tons of Michelin-star restaurants too.

The restaurant world really is your oyster and there are plenty of places for any travel budget .

You’re in luck if you’re a beer or wine lover in Portugal. A small draft beer can be as cheap as €1, and a glass of house wine will run as low as €3.

Even in a nice cocktail bar or fancy restaurant, premium drinks are much cheaper than in other parts of Europe and the United States, quite often coming in under €10.

A delicious oat milk latte at a trendy coffee shop will surprise you at under €5, while an espresso, or bica , is usually just €0,50.

An excellent bottle of wine can be bought in the grocery stores or a nicer wine shop for under €15. While a very decent bottle can also be purchased for €3.

While tipping is not usually expected, the Portuguese people do appreciate a small token of your appreciation if you enjoyed your service. Typically, 5-10% of a larger bill is appropriate. If it’s a smaller bill, rounding up to the nearest Euro or leaving your small change will suffice.

At nicer or more touristy spots a service charge may automatically be included, so make sure to check your bill.

Transportation

• E-scooters and bike rentals are popular and sometimes even free. 
• Rail tickets, especially if booked well ahead, can cost pennies on the kilometer.
• Car rentals in the high season can be pricey, as can gas/diesel but offer the most flexibility. Prices for rental cars fluctuate with the tourist season, as can inventory, so book well ahead of your visit. During the off-season, cars can be rented for about €20/day.
• Trams cost a considerable amount more per ride, but if you intend to take more than 3-4 rides during a 24-hour period it makes more sense to buy a day pass.

Activities during your Portugal trip can be quite affordable as there are many providers competing for business. For example, a boat trip to visit Benagil Cave in the Algarve can cost as little as €20 per person.

Costs of travel in Portugal span a broad range making it affordable for every budget as long as you do your research.

Portugal Tours For Solo Travelers

Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to traveling alone . While many people find travel i ng solo fun , others would prefer to have a guaranteed group of companions to explore with.

If you fit into the latter camp, a few group tours that have itineraries in Portugal and welcome solo travelers include:

• GAdventures
• Intrepid Travel

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Portugal?

When visiting Portugal—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel In Portugal

Q: when is the best time to visit portugal.

While you can visit Portugal any time of year, the spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best time if you want to enjoy comfortable weather and many great things to do while avoiding the summer crowds and high prices. During the winter months, it is considered too chilly to visit the beaches.

Q: Do locals speak English in Portugal?

English is widely spoken in Portugal, particularly in the big cities and tourist destinations.

Q: Is it safe to travel Portugal independently?

Portugal is considered very safe, and you can travel solo without worrying—though you should of course keep basic safety precautions in mind.

Final Thoughts On Solo Travel In Portugal

As a solo female traveler, you don’t need to limit yourself while visiting Portugal.

Safe and reliable transportation, welcoming people, rich history and culture, historical monuments, a variety of picturesque landscapes, and burgeoning hipness all make Portugal the next place you should visit as a solo female traveler.

Whether you’re looking for Portuguese culture, history, beauty, or fun, Portugal has it all. The options really are endless!

What would you add to this guide to solo travel in Portugal?

Enjoyed this solo female travel Portugal guide? Pin it for later!

About The Author

Allison Baxley is a wife to her high school sweetheart, mother of two young children, former advertising creative director, and creator of RenovatingLife.com . She and her family uprooted their comfy lives in Brooklyn in order to start fresh in Cascais, Portugal. After living the rat race that is NYC for 11 years, they decided they wanted to slow down, enjoy more of what the world has to offer, and live life with more intention. In addition to her blog, you can find her on Instagram , TikTok , Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more fun Portugal content.

Related posts:

Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!

I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

Want to live your best life through travel?

Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!

Turn Your Travel Blog Into A Profitable Business

Subscribe to my email list to snag instant access to my library of workbooks, checklists, tutorials and other resources to help you earn more money -- and have more fun -- blogging. Oh, and it's totally FREE! :) //  Privacy Policy . 

Check your inbox for your welcome email + resource library password!

Thank you for sharing this travel-related information…

Thank you for sharing travel related information… Columbus Tourism – Travel agent in Ahmedabad, Book the best domestic and international tour packages of your choice. We offer the best deals on holiday packages. Established in the year 2015 we are a niche travel agency providing effective tour packages and traveling services with the comfort and satisfaction of our clients being at the core of our service delivery.

I visited Portugal with my partner a couple of years ago, and I’m considering going back solo. Thanks for your tips here!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Portugal Solo Travel Guide: 21 Best Places (2024)

From the narrow streets of Lisbon to the rugged Algarve coast, Portugal solo travel is something you’ll want to experience again and again.

Over the last 2 years, I’ve returned to Portugal time after time, exploring this country from top to bottom, all on my own. After visiting its historic cities, its lush volcanic islands covered in waterfalls, and its colorful fairytale castles, I’ve become convinced that Portugal is pretty much the ultimate solo travel destination!

Not only is it one of the safest countries in Europe, it’s also beautiful, charming, and affordable. Plus, Portuguese cities are super walkable, and public transportation makes getting around easy.

Whether you’re exploring Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Madeira, Azores, or beyond, there are tons of opportunities to meet new people while exploring Portugal’s culture, food, and history.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the best places for solo travel in Portugal, what to eat and do on your own, how to get around, and tips for staying safe while making the most of your adventure!

SOLO TRAVEL TIPS

• Purchase travel insurance in case of an emergency
• Stay in or book tours through a hostel to meet other solo travellers
• Learn some basic Portuguese, especially if you plan to visit remote locations
• Wear pick-pocket proof clothing and keep your purse or bag in front of you

Table of Contents

Is Portugal Safe for Solo Travel?

Before planning solo travel to Portuga l , it’s normal to wonder if Portugal is a good place to travel alone, or if Portugal’s safe for solo female travellers.

After a number of solo trips to Portugal, I can assure you Portugal is a very safe country to visit. Most of its popular destinations are counted among the safest European cities for solo female travel. Plus, Portugal consistently ranks among the top 10 most peaceful countries according to the Global Peace Index .

The locals are warm and friendly, and the country has a low crime rate, stable political infrastructure, and little risk of natural disaster.

Not only is Portugal a safe and crime-free destination, this country takes health and environmental protection seriously. When visiting Madeira, I was thrilled to see that the majority of local restaurants voluntarily participated in a clean and safe sanitation initiative.

While you have to watch for pickpocketing like everywhere in Europe, most Portuguese cities are free from any dangerous areas you have to avoid, making it super easy to travel Portugal on your own.

Just remember to stay alert, keep your belongings close, At night, stick to well-lit streets and try to find a friend to walk home with. Or better yet, just call a taxi.

RESPONSIBLE EXPATS & DIGITAL NOMADS

Portugal is a very welcoming place, with lots of American tourists and expats moving to the country thanks to the great weather, affordable housing market, and government-sponsored visa programs. However, responsible travelers should be aware that this trend has had negative consequences for Portuguese citizens. Anyone planning a long-term stay should be mindful of where they choose to stay, and be sure to apply for the Temporary Stay Visa so that your presence leaves a positive impact on the local economy.

Best Places for Solo Travel in Portugal

With so many charming cities and dreamy beach towns, choosing the best place in Portugal for solo travel is not an easy task!

If you’re lucky enough to have the time and resources, I strongly advise that you actually don’t do any choosing at all. Instead, visit every single one of these Portuguese gems.

Afterward, if you can’t bring yourself to return home, well, I can’t say I would blame you. Just don’t hold me responsible, okay? You can’t say I didn’t warn you.

QUICK GUIDE

1. Lisbon | 2. Algarve | 3. Porto | 4. Madeira | 5. Azores | 6. Lagos | 7. Faro | 8. Albufeira | 9. Douro Valley | 10. Sintra | 11. Cascais | 12. Obidos | 13. Ericeira | 14. Aveiro | 15. Coimbra | 16. Braga | 17. Tavira | 18. Sagres | 19. Portimao | 20. Alfama | 21 . Belem

Adorable yellow trams, romantic waterfront monuments, and more character and charm than nearly any other city in the world, Portugal’s capital city is a great place to go if its your first time solo traveling.

Stroll through the dreamy pastel streets of Lisbon’s historic district, fall in love with the creamy signature pastry, pastel de nata , and walk in the footsteps of explorers from Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Lisbon solo travel is an adventure I highly recommend!

One of the best things to do alone in Lisbon is to explore the enchanting neighborhoods of Alfama, Belem, and Bairro Alto. Let’s check out what they’ve got in store for you.

Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon known for the narrow winding streets and traditional Portuguese architecture that survived a major 1755 earthquake. I really enjoyed the neighborhood’s nostalgic atmosphere with its colorful houses, hanging laundry, and lively cafes. Make sure you check out:

• Castle of Sao Jorge: Explore the immaculately maintained 11th-century castle and its breathtaking views.
• Fado Show: Discover the musical genre that originated in Lisbon while you enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner.
• Portas do Sol: Soak in the views at the city’s best miradouro .

Located to the west of Lisbon’s city center, Belem is known for its rich history, often detailed through stunning Manueline monuments with intricate carvings that tell the story of the Age of Discovery. Explore the major attractions:

• Belem Tower: Once the point of disembarkation for Portuguese explorers, and now one of the best Lisbon Instagram spots .
• Jerónimos Monastery: A gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site where Vasco de Gama is buried.
• Pasteis de Belém : Visit the famous pastry shop that keeps its dessert recipe under lock and key! Trust me when I tell you that their pastel de nata is well worth the crazy long line.

BEST LISBON DAY TRIPS

Stay at any of these top hostels and hotels in Lisbon for solo travelers , but make sure you leave time to explore the surrounding towns and beaches on a day trip. Each of these spots is less than an hour and a half from the city.

Land of fairytale castles. Don’t miss the colorful Pena Palace or the mysterious Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira.

Beauty and relaxation await at any of the best beaches in Cascais .

Whitewashed buildings and laid-back vibes. Surfing and sunbathing are two of the best things to do in Ericeira .

The cutest medieval town! Exploring the ancient castle is just one of the many incredible things to do in Obidos .

PRO TIP: If you can only choose one, I recommend Sintra, followed by Obidos!

LISBON SOLO TRAVEL RESOURCES

• The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Lisbon, Portugal
• 35+ Things to Do Alone in Lisbon as a Solo Traveler
• Instagrammable Lisbon: 37 Best Photo Spots with Map (+Sintra!)
• 10 Best Places to Stay in Lisbon for Solo Travelers

Portugal’s rugged southern coast is absolutely mesmerizing. An Algarve solo travel experience is filled with golden sand beaches, white-washed villages, and rock formations that tower over the blue sea.

I won’t deny it. I fell head over heels for this enchanting land of hidden sea caves and colorful sunsets.

BEST ALGARVE DAY TRIPS

With 300+ days of sunshine a year, it’s no wonder so many people consider the Algarve the best place in Portugal for solo travel.

Be sure to add these stunning spots to your itinerary:

My absolute favorite place in the Algarve thanks to Ponta da Piedade, a breathtaking headland filled with golden yellow rock formations and picturesque arches.

Deserted islands, a chapel made of human bones, and the gateway to one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders. This small town packs a big punch.

Head straight for Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches. Don’t even think about moving from your beach towel until it’s time to reapply that sunscreen.

Some say this is one of the most beautiful places in the Algarve. Are they correct? You’ll have to visit and find out for yourself!

Embark on an excursion to Benagil Cave, famous for its natural skylight and spacious golden sand beach.

Once believed to be the end of the world, this solo travel hotspot is home to some of the best surf waves in the world.

PRO TIP: If you want to explore as much of the Algarve as possible, base your in the same town as the airport. From there, the rest of the region is easy to visit on a number of exciting day trips from Faro .

ALGARVE SOLO TRAVEL RESOURCES

• The Ultimate Algarve Solo Travel Guide

Narrow houses with colorful hues. Boats gliding across the Douro River. Glass of port wine in hand. There’s a reason that Porto solo travel is on the rise!

Don’t let the nickname Lisbon’s little sister fool you, this city in Northern Portugal is an amazing place filled with massive azulejo murals. Plus, it’s home to Livario Lello, the bookstore said to have inspired part of Harry Potter.

Don’t forget to head across the Dom Luis I bridge to check out the historic port wineries and impressive Porto viewpoints in charming Vila Nova de Gaia.

BEST PORTO DAY TRIPS

Have a little more time? Awesome! If Douro Valley’s already on your itinerary, then check out some of these other cool Porto day trips:

Academics and history buffs will love exploring the University of Coimbra, Portugal’s oldest university and the oldest in Europe still in use today.

This two-thousand-year-old destination is home to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, one of the most Instagrammable places in Portugal. Kind of ironic, huh?

Is Aveiro worth visiting? That all depends on how badly you want to see the picturesque Moliceiro boats and canals of the Venice of Portugal . My two cents? This day trip is only worth it if you include the nearby beach of Costa Nova and its famous striped palheiros .

PORTO SOLO TRAVEL RESOURCES

• The Perfect Solo Travel Guide to Porto
• 16 Phenomenal Port Wineries in Porto
• Porto Viewpoints: 11 Mesmerizing Miradouro Views

DOURO VALLEY

Alright, I’m just going to say it: the Douro Valley is the most beautiful wine country in the world! Bold claim, I know. But after visiting a handful of the best wineries in Douro Valley on my Portugal solo travel journey, I’ll stand by this statement until the end of time.

This place is like stepping into a real-life painting, surrounded by lush, terraced vineyards and the glittering Douro River. Head to the gorgeous quintas for tasting and tours before a quick Rabelo boat trip to take in more of the scenery.

Often called the Hawaii of Europe, Madeiro solo travel is a huge adventure filled with more natural wonders than you can even imagine. I can’t recommend this spot more for avid hikers. The island’s Levada trails have insane views of plunging waterfalls, untamed jungles, and a canopy of clouds.

With beautiful black sand beaches, awe-inspiring sunsets, and refreshing natural lava pools, this island is home to Europe’s first digital nomad community. Plus, Madeira has its own unique world-famous wine and a heavy dose of nature and relaxation. It’s easy to see why this archipelago is one of the best places for solo travel in Portugal!

MADEIRA SOLO TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Madeira Solo Travel: A Magical Solo Trip Guide
• Santana Madeira Houses: Traditional Island Homes

AZORES ISLANDS

Thermal baths and epic hiking paths! Azores solo travel is a completely enchanting experience thanks to its steaming hot springs, lush, tropical forests, and incredible outdoor adventures! Like Madeira, the natural environment here is almost surreal. Multi-colored lakes nestled inside craters, volcanos that cook you dinner… Honestly, you’ve just got to see it to believe it.

While these quiet islands are admittedly not the best place for making new friends, staying at the right hostel or booking organized day tours can make things easier… Unless you need some time to yourself, in which case, Azores is absolutely the best place in Portugal for solo travel!

AZORES SOLO TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Azores Solo Travel: An Epic Adventure Guide

Check out this Portugal solo travel map to plan out your journey and get familiar with all the best places for singles and solos.

Best Things to Do in Portugal

Wondering what to do on a solo trip to Portugal? You won’t be wondering much longer! Portugal is a fascinating European country with an incredible amount of things to do. Open up your notes app, because your Portugal bucket list is about to be filled to the brim.

Learn Portuguese History

One of the most fascinating parts of traveling to Portugal alone is learning about its rich and diverse history. From its Moorish-influenced architecture to its strong ties with the Catholic Church, there’s a lot to uncover. Explore castles, churches, and monuments that remain from centuries past. As you go, chat with locals who are eager to share stories about

• Fado: Fado is a traditional Portuguese genre of music, characterized by its haunting melancholic melodies, often centered around the sea and the poor. You’ll find the best fado in Lisbon along the cobbled streets of the historic Alfama district.
• Azulejos: Azulejos are decorative blue and white ceramic tiles that are a fundamental part of Portuguese architecture and culture. Just walking around Portugal’s neighborhoods is like exploring a living art gallery.
• Age of Discovery: Portugal’s seafaring age shaped the country in so many ways. No Portugal solo travel experience is complete without tracing the footsteps of Vasco de Gama in Belém.

Discover Portugal’s Beach & Surf Culture

Between the golden sand, enchanting rocky coastline, and some of the biggest waves in the world, skipping out on the best beach towns in Portugal would be a totally missed opportunity.

Whether you want to learn to surf in Portugal or just relax on the shore, there are over 500 beautiful beaches with space for you to spread your towel.

• Surfing: Portugal is a surfer’s paradise, thanks to its extensive coastline with consistent waves all year long. Definitely check out Nazaré, known for its record-breaking waves, and Peniche, a renowned surfing destination that hosts the annual World Surf League Championship.
• Beaches: Portugal’s beaches are famous for their breathtaking beauty and diversity from the sun-kissed cliffs of the Algarve coast or the windy shores of Portugal’s best surf towns.
• Islands: Get off the beaten path during your solo trip to Portugal and pay a visit to the otherworldly fanal forest and black sand beaches of Madeira and the Azores.

Taste Portuguese Food & Wine

While not as famous as its eastern neighbors, Portugal’s food scene has witnessed growing international interest in the last decade. Give it another few years and you just might start seeing the best food in Portugal popping up on menus around the world.

• Portuguese Cuisine: Portugal’s gastronomy is a culinary journey through the country’s rich heritage. Fresh seafood, succulent meats, and flaky pastries are a few of the best things to eat in Portugal. Don’t leave without trying bacalhau a bras , or the famous pastel de nata .
• Port Wine: Renowned worldwide, Port Wine is a sweet, fortified wine that originated in Northern Portugal. Your solo travel journey won’t be complete without visiting the traditional cellars and port wineries in Porto to learn about port wine history and production.
• Douro Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its breathtaking terraced vineyards that produce Port Wine grapes, a day trip to the beautiful Douro Valley wineries is a day well spent.

Sightseeing in Portugal

From world-famous monuments like Sintra’s Pena Palace to lesser-known gems like the Roman ruins of Évora, there’s no shortage of fascinating things to see and do during Portugal solo travel.

• Fairytale Castles: Portugal’s palaces are absolutely mesmerizing. From Monserrat’s unique Moorish beauty to the baroque grandeur of the Mafra National Palace, it’s no surprise that these scenic castles are some of the best photo locations in Portugal.
• Medieval Villages: Step back in time on a day trip to the well-preserved castle walls and cobblestone streets of Obidos . This charming town is one of the only places you can visit on a day trip from both Lisbon and Porto!
• Miradouros: There’s no better way to appreciate the sunsets in Portugal than from one of the country’s famous miradouro viewpoints. The golden hour panoramas I enjoyed from a few different Porto miradouros are what made me fall in love with this charming European nation.

How to Solo Travel in Portugal

Solo travel in Portugal is an incredibly rewarding and unique experience. With its amazing beaches and vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country.

Whether you’re a first-timer looking to explore the culture or an experienced traveler searching for adventure, here are some tips and tricks on how to make your solo journey through Portugal one of the best trips of your life.

Making Friends

Making friends as a solo traveler in Portugal can seem daunting, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. With an open mind and a little effort, you’ll find yourself surrounded by locals eager to share their knowledge about the country and local culture.

Here are some tips on how to make friends while traveling alone in Portugal:

• Facebook Groups: There’s an incredible network of solo female travelers looking to meet up with others, especially in Lisbon! Find the local Gone Girl International group for your destination and you’ll make new friends in no time!
• Hostels: It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of hostels, but even if you don’t stay at one, you can still book tours through certain hostels which increases your chances of meeting other solo travelers. (PS: You can always book a private room!)
• Food Tours: I’ve had a lot of luck making friends through food tours, particularly the somewhat boozy ones! IMO, it’s way less awkward than a pub crawl since there are small groups and everything is centered around an organized activity.

In today’s world, danger is everywhere, including both at home and abroad. If you want to know how to travel alone safely, do your research and know what to expect.

While nothing can guarantee a lack of surprises, I’d be willing to bet that most solo travelers are thrilled by the process of discovery. I know I am!

Here are some of my top safety tips compiled from 5 years of solo travel:

• Scams: Researching common tourist scams really helps you figure out what to watch for.
• Unwanted Attention: If you find yourself the target of unwanted attention, challenge yourself to set firm, clear boundaries by using intentional body language. Trust me when I tell you that this is a learned skill. You’d be surprised at just how quickly would-be pursuants back off after a display of confidence, even if you’re faking it.
• Common Sense: I really hope this goes without saying, but as long as you research areas to avoid, you don’t wander around alone at night, and limit your alcohol intake, you shouldn’t have to worry about safety in Portugal.
• Emergency Plan: Know what you’ll do if things go wrong. Make copies of your important documents, invest in travel insurance for medical emergencies, and make note of where the closest embassy is located, just in case.

Digital Nomads & Remote Workers

Portugal is becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads and remote workers. With its strong internet infrastructure, low costs of living, and welcoming atmosphere, it has become a haven for those looking to combine work with travel.

Best Places for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers:

• Lisbon: The charming capital of Portugal is an ideal city for digital nomads thanks to its strong Wi-Fi, numerous co-working spaces, friendly hostels, and cozy coffee shops.
• Faro : Located in the southern Algarve region, is a haven for digital nomads seeking a slow pace and sunny weather.
• Madeira: Home to Europe’s first digital nomad village, this island is one of the best destinations for remote workers who want access to some awe-inspiring nature.

PRO TIP: My favorite thing to do in a new location is to take one of the free walking tours on the first day. It’s the best way to start learning your way around!

Where to Stay on A Solo Trip to Portugal

When it comes to Portugal solo travel accommodations, you’ve got tons of options! If you’ve read my other Portugal travel guides on the best places to solo travel in Portugal you know I’m a pretty big fan of hostels. Especially in Lisbon, the hostel scene is pretty incredible for solo travellers.

Hostels make it easy to meet new friends, they’re affordable and most of them are really, really cute. For some people, sharing a room makes them feel safer when traveling alone, but if you’d prefer to be on your own, most hostels offer private rooms!

If a cute boutique hotel is more your thing, don’t worry. Portugal has no shortage of gorgeous places to stay. For example, there are plenty of luxury hotels in Lisbon for solo travelers that have social rooftop bars and coworking spaces!

How to Get Around Portugal

Getting around this Iberian nation isn’t too tricky! With a good public transportation system, getting from city to city or town to town is actually pretty affordable.

In Lisbon and Porto, it’s easy enough to get everywhere by walking and taking trams or buses. The train will take you to most other towns and the line runs straight up and down the coast, connecting Porto to the Algarve within a couple hours.

While I prefer to take public transportation and book day trips for harder-to-reach areas, Portugal is definitely one of those countries where renting a car has plenty of benefits. Since it’s one of the smaller European nations with amazing roads along the coast, a Portugal road trip isn’t such a bad idea!

PRO TIP: If you plan to drive across most of the country with a rental car, definitely grab the Via Verde tag to save on tolls.

Getting to Portugal on Your Own

If I’m traveling from a nearby European country, train or bus is typically my preferred method. Anything to avoid security and that early arrival! Train and bus terminals are usually located closer to the city centers and it’s much easier to just show up and be on your way.

Here’s some information to help you plan for your arrival to Portugal:

Arriving by Plane

Portugal has three international airports. Lisbon, the capital city, is typically the most affordable airport to fly in and out of. There are plenty of direct flights from across Europe and a few from the United States. These are the main airports in Portugal:

• Lisbon Airport: Humberto Delgado Airport – Central
• Porto Airport: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport – North
• Algarve Airport: Faro – Gago Coutinho International Airpor – South

PRO TIP: TAP Airlines offers stopovers at Porto or Lisbon on your way to another destination, a great option for travelers short on time!

Arriving by Bus

Buses can sometimes be the easiest option when they don’t require a change. The bus stations are typically located at the major train stations within the city center, closer than the airport. FlixBus is my favorite, with fares that rarely go above €15.

Arriving by Train

Trains are a fun way to travel around Europe. Plus, they’re environmentally friendly! You’ll want to note that some countries have totally different train services that make the journey more complicated. Portugal and Spain are unfortunately two such places, but the good news is that an interlinking railway is currently in the works. For now, bus is your best option.

When to Visit Portugal Solo

Choosing the best time to visit Portugal is crucial to make sure your solo trip is everything you want and more. From the ideal months for surfing in Algarve to the best time to enjoy snow in Portugal, here’s a look at what to consider when timing your vacation.

• Best Weather: Summer is filled with sunny months, but you can avoid excessive heat by visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. (March-May & September-October)
• Rainy Season: Portugal gets the most rain in the wintertime between January and February.
• Beach Vacation: If you love the beach, the best time to enjoy sunny beach days and comfortable swimming is in the summer from June to August.
• Avoid Crowds: Steer clear of the summer peak season or opt for shoulder season travel and you’ll deal with far fewer crowds.
• Cheap Prices: Visit any time from January to April to take advantage of the lowest flights and most affordable offers.
• Surfing: The best time for surfing is during the fall and winter months, especially September to February when the Atlantic swells create perfect surf waves.

PS: You can also take a look at this winter in Portugal guide to the annual seasons in Portugal for an in-depth look at the weather and temperature across the country’s different regions.

Portugal Solo Travel Itinerary

Looking for the perfect itinerary for your solo trip? After traveling across Portugal, I recommend the two schedules below depending on how much time you have. Neither of these routes will require a car rental.

You can always adjust by a day or two to suit your own preferences, but use this as a guide to determine how much time you’ll need for your travels. PS: If you have any questions about your trip, I’m always happy to help out. Just drop me a message!

ITINERARY 1: Hit the Highlights

Perfect for solo travelers who only have so much time or want to see the main before heading to another European country.

Day 1-3: Porto & Douro

• Explore iconic landmarks like Livario Lello, Bolsa Palace, and the Porto Cathedral
• Take a day trip to Douro Valley by train and sip on port wine and vinho verde while admiring the views

Day 4: Obidos

• On your way to Lisbon, make a pit stop in Obidos to explore the medieval castle and try the famous ginja served in chocolate cups

Day 5-7: Lisbon

• Wander the narrow streets of Alfama and enjoy bacalhau a bras during a fado show
• Explore Belem and take a self-guided city tour on Lisbon’s famous Tram 28
• Embark on a day trip to Sintra where you can see the stunning palaces of Pena and Quinta da Regaleira

Day 8-10: Algarve

• Kayak through Ponta da Piedade and visit Benagil Cave
• Relax on any of the golden sand beaches or take surfing lessons in Sagres

ITINERARY 2: Portugal Adventurer

Have a little more time on your hands? Great for slow travel, backpacking or digital nomads, this solo travel itinerary will help you get to know the country even better.

Day 1-7: Lisbon

• Explore Alfama, Belem, and Bairro Alto, full of fado, museums and pastel de nata
• Check out off-the-beaten-path destinations like LX Factory and the street art of Mouraria
• Squeeze in a few day trips to Cascais, Ericeira, Sintra, or Obidos and Mafra Palace

Day 8-12: Madeira

• Chase waterfalls as you hike the levada trails and watch the sunset from Pico do Ruivo or Ponta do Sol
• Take a food tour in Funchal and visit the colorful farmer’s market
• Check out the colorful Santana houses and sled down a hill in a traditional wicker toboggan

Day 13-18: Azores

• Soak in thermal hot springs and enjoy dinner cooked by the heat of a volcano
• Visit a tea plantation on Sao Miguel and tour the world’s only indoor pineapple plantation
• Go wine tasting at the vineyards of Pico or snorkel at Vila Franca do Campo

Day 19-22: Algarve

• Relax at Praia da Marinha and enjoy a dinner of seafood cataplana
• Explore the natural wonder of Algar Seco with its hidden grottoes in Carvoeiro
• Make your way to Tavira castle before visiting the lagoons of Rio Formosa

Day 23-26: Porto

• Admire the azulejo -covered churches and eat fresh seafood along the Ribiera
• Cross the Dom Luis I Bridge and learn how port wine is made in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia
• Venture to Aveiro, Coimbra or Braga on a historical day trip from Porto

Day 27-28: Douro Valley

• Visit the terraced vineyards of Pinhao and relax at a luxurious retreat (or hostel!)
• Explore Lamego’s famous church before spending the afternoon exploring Mateus Palace

Where to Go After Portugal

Saying goodbye is never easy. But if I’m leaving to head to my next destination, well, then… adios ! Ciao ! Sayonara !

For the next stop on your solo travel adventure, you won’t have to look far. Portugal’s neighbors, Spain and Morocco , are dazzling countries with incredible sights, but just enough shared history to be familiar.

All in all, the Iberian Peninsula is an amazing first place to travel on your own so make sure you take a look around and pick out the perfect next spot for you.

RELATED POSTS:

• The Best Time to Visit Portugal: Season Guide

MORE PORTUGAL TRAVEL GUIDES

• Portugal in Winter: Things to Do in December, January, & February
• The 17 Best Beaches in Cascais, Portugal
• Is Aveiro Worth Visiting?
• 25+ Epic Things to Do in Ericeira
• 23+ Outstanding Things to Do in Obidos
• Lisbon Itinerary: 4 Dreamy Days in the City of 7 Hills
• 7 Absolutely Darling Douro Valley Wineries
• 15 Fabulous Day Trips from Faro, Portugal
• Fanal Forest, Madeira: Tour the Mysterious Woods

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Ultimate Portugal Solo Travel Itinerary for a Memorable Experience

Travel author

My name is Karen Bradshaw, I’m a travel writer and fiction author with a passion for literature. In my spare time, I’m a big foodie and enjoy trying different cuisines as well as spending time with my three children

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

With rugged coastlines, beautiful architecture and more than 300 days of sunshine every year, it’s no wonder people are flocking to Portugal.

If you’re traveling alone then you’ll want to ensure you don’t run out of things to do.

Here comes a sample itinerary of some of the must see places in this European haven. 

Table of Contents

Is Portugal Safe For Solo Travelers?

Portugal is a popular travel destination for Europeans seeking sun, scenery and old world culture.

With up to 30 millions visitors every year, one has to ask whether Portugal is a safe destination for the solo traveler.

The good news is that Portugal is one of the safest European countries for any traveler.

Its crime rates are incredibly low, particularly violent crimes and, unlike many other European countries, problems with pickpocketing are comparably lower. 

Of course, when traveling, it’s always important to keep your wits about you and make sure you’re aware of your surroundings.

All of the usual common sense tips still apply but as a lone traveler, you’re much less likely to be a target of crime compared to other places. 

• Keep your belongings in a zippered bag that’s close to your body.
• Don’t walk alone in poorly lit areas after dark.
• Never venture into areas that you aren’t familiar with alone.
• Do not leave items unattended in your car.
• Ensure your accommodation doors and windows are securely locked at night.
• Buy your own drinks and always keep them with you.

You may also like 📖

• Is Portugal A Cheap Destination To Travel To?

Places To Visit In Portugal As A Solo Traveller – Your Itinerary

The great thing about Portugal is that it isn’t a massive country.

So, if you want to see as much of it as possible during your trip, it’s relatively easy.

A lot of people choose to either visit the capital city of Lisbon or book a beach break but there’s a lot more to this stunning country. 

With an international airport located just 7 km from the center of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal is a great place to begin your trip.

• Easy access from the airport
• Close to the coast
• Affordable accommodation
• Excellent seafood
• Great nightlife

In actual fact, Lisbon has fast become one of the most popular solo tourist locations in Europe and it has a lot to offer. 

With quaint cobbled streets and rustic architecture, one could be forgiven for thinking that they were not in a capital city at all.

But it isn’t just history and culture you’ll find here, Lisbon is also well loved for its nightlife and some one of the best bar scenes in Western Europe. 

If you’re looking for a blend of coast and city then Lisbon is a must visit spot .

Here is what to expect:

• It sits around 15 miles from the coast so it’s really easy to take a day trip to the beach and be back in the city by evening for cocktails and seafood.
• There’s a fantastic atmosphere in Lisbon and it’s an incredibly welcoming city.
• Staying here doesn’t cost the earth and I found there to be plenty of pleasant hostels for soloists.

One of the best is the Lisbon Lounge and what I love about this place is that it hosts dinners for its guests every night so I had a chance to get to know a whole host of people from different walks of life. 

Read Next 📖

• The Perfect 4-Day Guide to Lisbon

Porto 

Most people think of Lisbon as the best city in Portugal and I won’t argue with that. However, Porto often gets pushed into its shadow when this is one of the most happening places in the country. 

For starters it’s home to many UNESCO sites and boasts some absolutely breathtaking buildings.

• Ideal for history lovers with plenty of UNESCO sites
• Quirky locations ideal for photos
• Great alternative to Lisbon
• Local vineyards within easy reach

What’s more, this is a city that sits on the river and is well known for its delicious cuisine. If you’re a wine fan then you’ll also be in close proximity to plenty of vineyards in Douro.

A hip and modern city, Porto is great for solo travelers because of the ample accommodation.

If you want to be in with the coolest kids then head to the Passenger Hostel which is housed within an old train station. It’ll certainly offer some Instagrammable shots. 

I am a huge fan of staying in the city but from time to time I want a little more peace and tranquility.

Peniche is where I found it in Portugal. It’s a fishing village that’s well known for its fresh seafood and beautiful beaches. 

For those that love to surf, Peniche is an excellent location because of the waves here.

• Perfect location for surf lovers
• Quieter than other parts of Portugal
• Great place to talk to locals
• Lots of nature
• Amazing sea food

Since there are lots of beaches facing in various directions, there’s always amazing surfing opportunities.

For this reason, the area is home to several surf schools so even if you’re totally new to the sport, you can take some tuition from the experts. 

There’s even the annual Rip Curl Pro tournament held here every spring.

If you’re traveling around March then I’d seriously recommend finding out the dates and planning your trip around this as it’s not to be missed. 

For those that aren’t into the surf, there are the Berlingas which is a small group of islands located just 10 km off the coastline of Perniche. It’s old world charm will draw you in and this is a fantastic opportunity to get chatting to the locals.

While the area does remain comparably quiet, it gets a little busier in the summer.

Peniche is also well loved for its nature opportunities so whether you want to take some stunning nature shots, catch a sunset or simply wander around and enjoy the scenery, there’s plenty of opportunity for this. 

When most people head to Portugal, they tend to stay around the coast. I can’t say I blame them; this country has some breathtaking coastlines.

But inland, there is still a lot to see and do.

• Perfect if you want a break from the coast
• Plenty of opportunities to speak to locals
• Great for history and architecture lovers

If you get the chance, then I’d recommend taking a trip to Coimbra where you can spend a couple of days getting familiar with local life in Portugal. 

It’s ideally situated for a stop as you travel between Lisbon and Porto so it’s definitely not out of the way.

And if you’re a fan of history then I don’t think there is any better place then Coimbra as it’s bursting with medieval buildings, statues and monuments.

On top of this, you’ll find Roman architecture and even some Baroque styled buildings and some of the spots are UNESCO listed. 

Staying in Coimbra is a great choice for solo travelers thanks to how affordable it is. With a local university, this is something of a student haven so everything is much cheaper.

After checking out everything that Lisbon has to offer, I’d suggest moving on to Cascais which is around half an hour’s train journey from the capital and has some amazing beaches. 

• One of the best spots for solo travelers with lots to do
• A more manageable climate
• Pretty coastlines
• Close to Lisbon

It’s often referred to as the Portuguese Riviera and the coastline is dotted with cute villas and pretty hotels.

It’s a perfect location if you want to explore the city but fancy staying out of the hustle and bustle, plus, you get that beautiful ocean breeze so the climate is much more pleasant here. 

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay then I’d recommend The Salty Pelican.

This is a hostel located on the beach that has lots of activities on allowing solo tourists to meet up with like minded people. From social BBQs to yoga classes and much more, you certainly won’t run out of things to do.

My first experience of Faro was the very first time I boarded a plane when I was around 10 years old.

We weren’t headed here but the plane had to make an emergency stop so all I got to see was the airport.

Fast forward several years and I headed back here to see what the Algarve capital had to offer and I was disappointed. 

One of the best things about Faro are its beaches. There’s no doubt in my mind that this is the main tourist attraction.

• Perfect for beach lovers
• Great for families
• Very social and welcoming vibe

However, because of this, the area does get very busy during the summer and is a popular family holiday spot. 

However, it’s not just beaches that make Faro a top destination. The pretty cobbled streets and plethora of hostels offering various social events make it a wonderful place to stay and explore.

I’ll admit, it’s a very touristy destination but there’s a vibe to the city that just cannot be replicated and it would be criminal not to stay here for a couple of days during your Portugal trip.

Earlier, I talked about Peniche being one of the top surfing spots in Portugal.

If you want something slightly closer to Lisbon then why not check out Ericeira which has just as prominent a surfing culture? 

• Vibrant and lively vibe
• Great surfing location
• Good for families

This is also a great choice if you’re looking for something a little more lively. While Peniche is stunning, it remains relatively quiet all year whereas Ericeira becomes quite lively during the summer months. 

It’s also a popular spot for Lisbon locals to get away for the weekend and I found there were lots of friendly Portuguese here willing to chat over a coffee or a beer. 

For surfing, there are some excellent options both for accommodation and lessons. With lots of surf lodges you can combine the two  and have lessons in with your stay. 

When I look at the best places to visit in Portugal online, Sintra is a spot that always comes up.

• Great for day excursions
• Brilliant architecture and history
• Great for walking

It’s really no wonder when you take a look at the Pena Palace with its bright colors and mind blowing architecture. 

For many people, Sinta is nothing more than a day trip from the capital but I would recommend spending at least a night here when planning your itinerary.

Pena isn’t the only palace; there is a much wider selection of magical palaces that are well worth checking out. 

What’s more, there are lots of green spaces here not to mention the beautiful, rugged beaches.

In terms of exploring nature, Sintra is a great spot and it doesn’t usually get very busy around the beaches and parks so it’s great if you want to get away from the crowds. 

Not to be confused with the city in Nigeria, Lagos in Portugal offers some of the most gorgeous beaches I have ever seen.

Rugged cliffs and rocky coasts meet pretty golden sands making for a once in a lifetime photo opportunity. 

• Beautiful geography
• Stunning beaches
• Perfect for those looking to get Instagram shots
• Brilliant nightlife
• Historical sites

Once you’re done exploring the stunning coast, Lagos is home to a very exciting nightlife scene that will keep you partying until the small hours.

This is also a great way to meet other people and for all intents and purposes, the area is pretty safe. 

If you’ve got any energy left on day two of your stay in Lagos then I’d recommend checking out some of the buildings in the Old Town.

Here you’ll be immersed in history and discover quaint churches and a generally relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. 

Tips For Traveling To Portugal Alone

As I have mentioned, traveling to Portugal is a very safe and enjoyable experience for most people.

However, it doesn’t hurt to gather some local information and knowledge to ensure you make the most out of your trip. 

• In Portugal the fees for using ATMs can be astronomical. Look out for the Euronet ATMs, some of which charge up to 20% on withdrawals and I’ve seen quite a high number of these in Lisbon but they are all over the country. Where possible, use your credit card or take out cash before your travel. 
• Crime in Portugal is relatively low, especially compared to some of the neighboring countries. However, there are incidents so I’d still recommend protecting your valuables and also taking out suitable travel insurance.
• While there aren’t as many pickpocketing incidents in Portugal, Tram 28 in Lisbon is notorious for this type of crime so be sure to stay vigilant.  
• One of the most common crimes in Portugal is car break ins. So, if you decide to rent a car to explore, make sure you do not leave anything valuable inside while you’re off adventuring. 
• In Lisbon, there are lots of meetups for solo tourists such as the Couchsurfing meetup. Before you travel, it’s worth checking out what events are on if you’re interested in getting chatting with other travelers. 
• Another great way to meet people when in Portugal is to take part in one of the many walking tours. These are centered around various things such as food stops, pubs, history and much more. They tend to attract solo tourists so you’ll find a lot of like minded people. 

Final Thoughts

Portugal has so many beautiful towns and cities to see and being quite a small country, it’s very easy to spend a couple of weeks here and see almost everything.

From soaring coastlines to wild nightlife, historical architecture to amazing food and everything in between, Portugal a must see on your tour of Europe.

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

Latest posts

Ulanzi U60 RGB Video Light Review: Top Vloggers’ Choice?

What Is Malta Famous For? Malta Local History and Past Events

Do IndiGo Airlines Provide Headphones? In-Flight Entertainment Explained

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

Europe , Solo travel

Solo travel in portugal – tips & places.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

After living in this wonderful country and travelling extensively, I can wholeheartedly confirm that solo female travel in Portugal is a fantastic idea! If you’re on the fence, I honestly wouldn’t give it a second thought. Portugal is one of the best places in the world for women to travel alone , and I have been to enough places to know!

I lived in Porto for several months and fell in love with this charming city that feels quite different to cosmopolitan Lisbon . Both cities are well worth visiting, and so are the beach towns. You don’t need to pick between a city break and a beach holiday: a solo trip to Portugal can include both!

PORTUGAL ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Getting around: train ( Omio ), bus ( Flixbus ) / car SIM cards: Airalo e-SIM (Portugal) Guidebook: Lonely Planet Portugal

Is Portugal good for solo travel?

Yes! With a sparkling safety record, plenty of English spoken, and well-developed tourist infrastructure including fantastic hostels and affordable public transport, Portugal is one of the best places for solo travel in Europe . I recommend solo travel in Portugal because it’s more affordable than places like Italy, France and the UK, but it benefits from great infrastructure that I’ve found to be slightly lacking in Balkan and Eastern European countries (that’s not to say I don’t rate these places for solo female travel , they’re just more of an adventure). Portugal is the perfect middle ground.

Is Portugal safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, there are extremely low levels of crime and it’s even been ranked the 5th safest country in Europe . And I can’t help but notice that the four countries above it are some of the most expensive places in the world, so if you’re looking to balance safety and spending, I think we have a winner! It’s also worth noting that it’s a progressive country with positive attitudes toward women, POC, and LGBT+ travellers (although more rural places are obviously more conservative). So it’s not just a general lack of crime that makes Portugal a great solo female travel destination but also its treatment of all types of travellers. Since Portugal has almost no violent crime, the worst thing you’re likely to experience is pickpocketing in crowded places especially during the summer months. Wear a secure cross-body bag and keep an eye on your belongings.

Read next: complete guide to solo female travel safety

Is Portugal suitable for first-time solo travellers?

Yes! I would recommend Portugal as one of the easiest places to break into solo travel. Not only is it super safe, but it’s easy to meet other travellers. If you haven’t navigated public transit systems before, this is an easy place to begin. While I loved travelling alone in Albania , for example, I never knew when the next bus would be coming and, when it did, it was usually hot and cramped. In contrast, Portugal has clean and efficient trains, buses and city Metros, plus several taxi apps to choose from. Plus, everything is shown in English and Portuguese. The actual travel aspect of solo travel in Portugal is easy!

Read next: the best destinations for women travelling alone in Europe

Good things about Portugal for solo travel

• Portugal has a fantastic safety rating and I even felt safe walking at night in the cities
• Portugal can be affordable – providing you avoid touristic neighbourhoods of Lisbon and popular Algarve towns in summer
• There are great hostels – in Lisbon, there’s even a hostel specifically designed for solo travellers!
• Getting around is simple with efficient and cheap public transport that’s easy to navigate.

Bad things about Portugal for solo travel

• Seasonal – you have to be mindful of the seasons because, in the summer, places are very crowded
• It’s not the cheapest place to travel compared to Asia, Eastern Europe and parts of Latin America, but it’s also not too expensive. To be honest, I’m clutching at straws here because, really, there are very few downsides to travelling alone in Portugal!

Best places to travel solo in Portugal

From cities to beaches, here’s where I recommend for solo female travel in Portugal!

Porto (Portugal’s ‘second city’ in the north)

Ahh, where to start with Porto? Well, I’ll begin by telling you I used to live here… Hence why I have SO many blogs about it! There are many reasons to visit Porto but the fact that it’s more local and less touristy than Lisbon is a good start. From the intricate blue azulejos (tiles) to the lesser visited neighbourhoods like Bonfim , it has a cosy character that some say Lisbon has lost to gentrification.

Things to do in Porto for solo travellers

• Spot tiled buildings like the Chapel of Souls, Carmo Church, Santo Ildefonso Church and Sao Bento Train Station
• Take a free walking tour for a great intro to Porto’s history and culture
• Sample sweet port wine in the Vila Nova de Gaia area across the river. Book on to a cellar tour with tastings, visit the World of Wine centre or simply do your own tasting at a riverside bar for as little as €1 a glass! Order one of each tawny, ruby, rosé, sweet white and dry white
• Wander the waterfront Ribeira area and take a 6 Bridges boat cruise
• For pano views , climb the Clérigos Tower or Porto Cathedral rooftop
• Watch sunset from one of the miradouros like Luis I Bridge, Jardim de Morro or Miradouro da Vitória. Many of the popular Porto bars have sundowner views
• Find the Half Rabbit Mural by Bordallo II and other Porto street art murals
• Visit the Livraria Lello for Harry Potter history if you don’t mind massive tourist traps – I personally didn’t love this place!
• Wander historic street, Rua das Flores , in good weather for shopping and people-watching
• Try local food in bustling Mercado do Bolhão
• Surf and eat seafood in Matashinos beach town just a Metro ride away and walk back to the city through Foz de Douro neighbourhood.
• Admire modern art at Serralves Museum near Foz and cross the many bridges in the nature area.

Read next: everything to do in Porto

Douro Valley day trip

No Porto itinerary would be complete without a day trip to the Douro Valley . This rugged region is characterised by sweeping vistas and vineyards producing spectacular wine. You have the feeling the valley hasn’t changed for centuries, and you wouldn’t want it to! Aside from tastings and tours, one of the best things to do is cruise down the Pinhão River aboard a boat trip.

How to visit the Douro Valley: this region is very safe for solo female travel in Portugal; the only issue is working out how best to visit. Hilly wine regions best explored by car aren’t a dream for those visiting alone! I went several times, once as a multi-night trip with friends (who I met after moving to Porto alone) where we hired cars and stayed overnight in an actual vineyard, and another as part of a GetYourGuide day tour (the easiest option for solo travellers in Portugal). You can also take the DIY option of a bus to Lamego or Vila Real town and organise a taxi ride to a winery. Alternatively, get a train to Peso de Régua or Pocinho (near the Spanish border). However, transport schedules aren’t too regular so I recommend an organised tour for ease and convenience.

Read next: 16 amazing day trips from Porto

What to eat in Porto

The food in Porto is hearty and heavy but I was a big fan! I adored pastel de natas from the start but I also became partial to port wine and ridiculously carby francesinha sandwiches stuffed with every meat imaginable and drenched in cheesy beer sauce, topped with a fried egg. Francesinhas are regional to Porto so this is the place to try them… if you can handle it! Even vegans have no excuse because there are plenty of vegan restaurants in Porto serving meat-free francesinhas.

Check out my guide to Porto coffee shops and Porto brunch that I tirelessly researched when living there 😉

Where to stay in Porto for solo female travellers

There are more than 15 hostels with a ‘superb’ rating (over 9/10 stars) on Hostelworld , something you barely ever see! To summarise, the hostels in Porto are world-class. Beds start from €12. For the best price-to-review ratio, you can’t beat Lost Inn Porto (beds from €17 right in the heart of the Old Town) and Pilot Design Hostel (beds from €12.50 and lots of fun activities and events going on).

How to get around Porto

It’s easy to walk most places in Porto (but prepare for some steep hills). However, you can also ride the Metro (which goes all the way out to Matashinos Beach) and city buses . Journies cost just a couple of Euros, and you can purchase an Andante card for €0.60 to make them even cheaper. Getting to Porto is easy because the airport, Francisco Sá Carneiro, is well connected to the city (take a bus, Metro, taxi or Uber). For intercountry travel, there’s a bus station and two train stations.

Lisbon (the capital)

Lisbon is surely one of the most captivating and charming cities in the world! With fantastic viewpoints and historic neighbourhoods, this hilly city is a must for solo travel in Portugal. Although there are big-name tourist attractions in Lisbon, it’s a city where you can wander for hours, stumbling across historic cafes open for centuries and rewarding yourself for steep climbs with sweet pastel de natas. It’s heaven! I recommend at least 3 days in Lisbon because there’s tons to see and do. Spend five days if you like leisurely sightseeing without being rushed off your feet.

Read next: my complete Lisbon solo travel guide

Things to do in Lisbon

• Soak up city views from the popular miradouros of São Pedro de Alcântara and Senhora do Monte (also don’t miss the National Pantheon rooftop)
• Visit cool Bairro Alto neighbourhood for free fado shows when you buy a drink (I went to one alone) and nightlife; solo travellers are welcomed by the friendly owner of Jam Club bar
• Visit art galleries like Chiado Museum and Museu Coleção
• Explore historic, hilly Alfama district for the Fado Museum, Lisbon Cathedral and fantastic views
• Walk the city walls at São Jorge Castle with 2,000 years of history
• Wander the upscale waterfront area, Cais do Sodré for Praca do Comercio, the Instagrammable Pink Street and the delectable Time Out Market
• Wander Baixa (the city centre) for Rossio Square and ride Santa Justa Lift to historic Carmo Convent
• Take a half-day trip to historic Belém for Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and Pastéis de Belém (the birthplace of egg custard tarts)
• Check out the quirky LX Factory , a repurposed warehouse on the Tagus River banks now filled with shops, restaurants, murals and a cool library called Ler Devagar.

Solo female travellers in Portugal will be relieved to know this is a very safe city ; I even felt fine walking alone at night. Some fun ways to meet other people include free walking tours, food & wine tours with Taste Lisboa , and evening bar crawls.

Where and what to eat and drink in Lisboa

• Cherry liquor at A Ginjinha
• Bifana sandwiches at O Trevo  
• The best pastel de natas at Fabrica da Nata  
• More sweet treats at historic bakery, Confeitaria Nacional  
• Upscale seafood at Versículo d’O Faia  
• Authentic seafood dishes on a budget at O Gaiteiro

Where to stay in Lisbon for solo female travellers

Lisbon has the best hostels in Portugal for solo travellers and possibly also some of the best in the world!

• Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel – designed for solo travellers with 3 free meals a day, plus free beer and sangria! Choose between privates, 4, 6, 8 or 10-bed dorms and woman-only dorms. Check availability from €27 .
• Lost Inn Lisbon – this boutique hostel in the heart of town has a co-working room, Netflix, guitars and board games so you can chill out after busy sightseeing. Check availability from €18 .
• We Love F Tourists – this centrally located hostel is attached to La Frutaria, one of the best places for a delish brunch. The hostel offers tapas & fado nights, bar crawls and daily Sintra trips. Check availability from €33 .

How to get around Lisbon

• On foot – Lisbon is a walkable city although there are LOTS of hills (luckily there are a few escalators)
• Metro – sadly your Andante card from Porto won’t work here so pick up a Viva Viagem card instead
• Local bus – journies cost around €2 with a discount if you pay with a pre-loaded Viva Viagem card rather than cash
• Tram – however riding these is more of a tourist attraction, especially the famous Tram 28!
• Taxi – you have a choice of taxi apps like Uber and Bolt.

Getting to Lisbon: Lisbon airport, Humberto Delgado, is well connected with other European cities and easy to reach from the city centre by Metro, bus and taxi. The main train station is Santa Apolónia (connected to the city by the blue Metro destined for Reboleira) and the main bus station is Estação do Oriente (to the city, ride the red Metro line to São Sebastião and change to the Blue line for Baixa-Chiado).

I can’t deny Sintra is an absolute stunner but it’s also one of the busiest and most crowded places I’ve visited in my life (and I went on a weekday in May so I can’t imagine what it’s like on an August weekend!) so I have mixed feelings about the place. This town a 45-minute train ride from Lisbon has several attractions, the main one being Pena Palace . Wandering the exterior was the highlight for me because the inside is very crowded. I also loved wandering the quiet, misty and peaceful grounds. In Sintra, you can also visit the Moorish Castle and Quinta da Regaleira with its beautiful Initiation Well. You can easily spend a whole day in Sintra, or stay overnight to explore the attractions at your leisure. For solo female travel in Portugal, it’s a safe option but not necessarily the most social one because there aren’t any hostels.

More day (or overnight) trips from Lisbon

The following places are also safe places for solo travel in Portugal… Cascais : once the summer retreat of Portuguese nobility, this charming town is known for impressive villas, museums and stylish bars and restaurants. There are a couple of hostels, or you can visit as a day trip from Lisbon. Ericeira : this is a fantastic surf destination with beautiful beaches and a pleasant town with cobbled streets and buckets of character. The modern and traditional meet here perfectly. Obidos : this historic walled town, protected by UNESCO, is another must-see. The Moorish castle is decorated with beautiful azulejos, and the surrounding town is just as idyllic. Browse tours combining Sintra, Cabo de Roca and Cascais .

The Algarve

When I visited the Algarve last summer, I wondered whether it was a good idea. I knew this region was popular with holidaymakers from the UK including families and groups on party holidays. So would it still be suitable for solo female travellers in Portugal? I’m happy to say, yes! Obviously, there are some places to avoid (like tacky Albufeira) but there are also some real gems. I based in Faro and Lagos to see the sights but there are plenty more places to visit in the Algarve like Sagres, Tavira and Portimão – you could stay for weeks! From surfing to kayaking through fascinating cliff formations, hiking and basking on beaches, the Algarve provides the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. The towns below are very safe and pleasant with decent hostels.

Best places for solo travel in Portugal’s Algarve

Faro: if you’re still wondering whether Portugal is safe for women travelling alone, just take a look at this idyllic, peaceful town! It’s a great base for exploring Ilha Deserta, Ilha do Farol and Ilha de Cultura during a 3-island boat trip (€30). Stay at Hostellicious , eat at La Forchetta (better Italian food than I had in Italy, I swear!), and don’t forget to see the stalks nesting in the church roof!

Lagos: for a larger town than Faro, stay in Lagos to visit beaches like Praia Dona Ana (best for swimming) and Praia do Caniçal and admire the views from Ponta da Piedade . Hiking the Fisherman’s Trail to Praia da Luz is a popular pastime, as is kayaking around the headland through caves with open tops. This was one of the highlights of my solo travels in Portugal! Stay at Olive Hostel in Lagos and eat seafood at Don Sebastiao and My Sushi Lagos (all-you-can-eat sushi for just €15!).

Prices in the Algarve aren’t the cheapest, especially in summer, but they’re not too bad provided you avoid tourist trap restaurants in city centres. I paid €25 a night for hostels, €30 for excursions like kayaking and boat trips, and €30 for a 2-course seafood meal with wine. April-June and September-October are the best times to visit the Algarve to avoid the crowds and peak prices.

Getting around the Algarve

Many people will tell you hiring a car is the best way to explore the Algarve and they might be right. However, for solo female travellers in Portugal, it’s not game over if you don’t want to hire a vehicle alone. As long as you manage your expectations about seeing and doing everything, you can easily get around by bus. I did! However, if you do want to rent a car, know they start from €10 a day. I recommend Rentalcars.com for hires in Portugal and around the world. Getting to the Algarve: Faro is the hub of entry. Fly into the airport, catch a train from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia station or take the Flixbus from €8.

Central Portugal

If the Algarve in summer sounds too busy and pricey for you, consider the Central Portuguese coast instead. All these places are safe for solo travel in Portugal with great infrastructure. Nazare : put on the map for its ‘big wave surf’, this is somewhere for pro surfers only! However, for other types of surfers (including non-surfers), this gorgeous beach town is worth visiting to watch professionals tackle waves up to 15m tall! Peninche: this is a chilled beach town for surfers of varying abilities. With wide open beaches, wonderful views from the lighthouse and lots of pleasant cafes, it’s not as busy as the Algarve and makes for a great alternative. Although I’m mainly talking about the coast here, there are some fantastic towns and cities in Central Portugal to visit like Coimbra (a historic student city) and Obridos (a UNESCO walled town).

More challenging places to travel solo in Portugal (but don’t rule them out!)

These are the places in Portugal that I believe are truly spectacular and worth visiting but not naturally as well-suited to solo travellers as the places above. However, there are always workarounds as I’ll share…

Madeira island

Okay, is Madeira one of the most staggeringly beautiful places I’ve ever been? YES! But is it the best place for solo travel in Portugal? Not really! This is because the attractions are spread across the island with little public transport. Car hires are expensive and you have to be a confident driver because of all the hills. As a result, Madeira has more of a reputation with families and couples than backpackers and solo travellers, although it is becoming popular with remote workers (I worked there remotely for 6 weeks and there’s even a digital nomad village !). Reasons to visit include the varied landscape from moon-like plains to lush river walks, black sand beaches, and lofty viewing decks. It’s truly spectacular!

Things to do in Madeira

• Walk the pretty streets of Zona Vieja (old town) in Funchal
• Go whale and dolphin watching in the main harbour
• Take the famous Monte Toboggan basket ride down Funchal Hill
• Hike the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail between the island’s two tallest peaks
• Try other hikes like the São Lourenço trail along the coast (pictured below left) and the shady levada walks beside running water
• Swim in Porto Moniz natural pools buffered from the sea by volcanic rocks
• Drive through the famous Anjos Waterfall and get a free car wash!
• Spot traditional Santana houses and other attractions on the lesser-visited northern coast
• Soak up scenic views from Funchal Cable Car, Cabo Girão glass-bottom viewpoint and, if you can get there, the majestic Nun’s Valley
• Eat regional Madeira foods like bolo de caco (some might call it elevated garlic bread), espetada hanging meat, scabbardfish with passionfruit or banana, and sweet Madeira wine!

Read next: things to do in Madeira

I enjoyed Madeira because I was there with friends and we could share the burden and costs of driving. I often reflected that if I had visited solo (my usual travel style), it would have been challenging… But not impossible! Here’s what I’d recommend if you do choose to visit solo:

• Stay in Funchal – the main city is the best base for budget accommodation
• Work out which attractions can be reached by public transport – there are a few buses departing Funchal to the main attractions
• Visit the other places as small group tours – I took a few of these, for example the peak-to-peak hike with GetYourGuide. As well as providing transport, they double up as a good way to meet other solo travellers in Portugal.

The Azores islands

To be transparent, I haven’t yet been to the Azores but they look stunning. Myself and the friends I made when I first moved to Portugal decided to go and work remotely on a Portuguese island and we picked Madeira, so the Azores (the other island cluster further west) remain on my bucket list. Like the Madeiran islands, the 9 Azores islands are known for their stunning volcanic scenery and outdoor activities like hiking and soaking in thermal baths. The Azores have no crime and the locals are very friendly. I still remember a story I heard about a solo woman who arrived in the Azores and asked a cafe worker how to get to her accommodation across the island. He replied, oh just borrow my car outside and I’ll collect it tomorrow! Despite the friendliness of the locals, for solo female travel in Portugal, the problem is the same as in Maderia: no public transport and not many hostels.

Best season to visit Portugal

Although I didn’t find it quite as seasonal as my solo travels in Croatia , I can’t deny that Portugal requires some planning. I personally found Lisbon heaving in May so wouldn’t have wanted to visit in August! Likewise, the Algarve beach towns struggle with overtourism in the summer. Summer (July-August): this is the most popular time to visit Portugal with the highest temperatures. Daily averages are around 28°C (82°F) but in recent years with a changing climate, it can get much hotter (the highest recorded temperature during the 2022 heatwave was 47°C). Expect to pay higher prices on accommodation and flights. Spring (March-June): shoulder season is a great time to visit with lower temperatures and fewer crowds. Be prepared that it can still rain, especially up north. Average temperatures are around 23°C in Lisbon and 17°C in Porto. Autumn (September-November): like spring, this could be the ideal time for a solo trip to Portugal. I was wearing a t-shirt well into October in Porto, and the south will be even warmer. Winter (November-Februry): winter in Portugal is mild. Temperatures are usually between 10°C (50°F) and 17°C (62°F). The Algarve is mild and dry, however it’s not beach weather.

Lisbon is the best city for a winter break because Porto in the north is notoriously rainy. I visited Lisbon in December when it was sunny and only chilly in the early mornings and evenings. It was ideal because I got a great deal on accommodation in the Bairro Alto area which I couldn’t have afforded in summer.

Cost of Portugal solo travel

Portugal is somewhere in the middle of Western European prices (it’s certainly cheaper than the cost of travel in the UK , Germany and Italy and FAR cheaper than the Nordic countries) and the cheaper Balkan countries like Albania and Serbia where I was spending €10 a night on accommodation! The pricier places are Lisbon and the Algarve, especially in the city centres. After 3 months in Porto, I found my local joints where wine was €2 and a 2-course meal was under €10! Oh, how I miss living there! Average Portugal prices:

• Bed in a hostel dorm – €12-30 (with higher prices in Lisbon and the Algarve)
• Private room in a budget hotel – from €25
• City Metro and bus rides – €1.50-2.50
• Flixbus rides – €10 can get you across the whole country!
• Train rides – €5-30 depending on distance
• Meal in a restaurant – €5-15 (in Porto, I found lots of local joints on the lower end of these prices!)
• Glass of wine – €2+ (in Porto, I found riverfront cafes serving 5 glasses of port for €5+).
• Local beer – from €1!

Getting to Portugal

The best-connected airports are Lisbon, Porto and Faro (for the Algarve). I use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights, searching by ‘whole month’ when I’m flexible for the best rates. From these airports, you can easily and cheaply reach towns and cities using public transport. Look out for flights with TAP Air which is Portugal’s main operator. These are often the cheapest.

Getting around Portugal

This is a very easy country to navigate. Your options during solo travel in Portugal are: Train: there’s an efficient train network. I took several Porto day trips by train (to Aveiro, Braga, Coimbra, Guimarães and more) from the two main stations, São Bento and Campanhã. In Lisbon, the main station is Santa Apolónia and it connects places such as the Algarve; use Omio to book seats.

Bus: I used the Flixbus to travel all over Portugal. My journey from Porto to Lisbon only cost €5.99 and my journey from Lisbon to Faro was €7.99! Car hire: these start from €10 a day and give you maximum flexibility when travelling around the Algarve. But it’s not always worth it for one traveller. Use Rentalcars.com to book. Pro tip #1 – I recommend downloading offline maps, either using Google Maps or Maps.me. This way you can get around without internet (but note that Google Maps directions won’t work offline, just the map view). Pro tip #2 – use the Rome2Rio website to research how to get between any two places. It works all around the world.

Best hostels in Portugal

• LISBON: Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel – (privates, 4, 6, 8 or 10-bed and woman-only dorms, plus 3 free meals a day) from €28
• PORTO: Lost Inn Porto (beds from €17) – right in the heart of the Old Town
• PORTO: Pilot Design Hostel (beds from €12.50) – known for fun activities and events.
• FARO: Hostellicious (beds from €30) – a clean, social hostel where it’s easy to make friends
• LAGOS: Olive Hostel (beds from €25 inc. 4 bed female dorms) plus a cute house cat!

Best activities for solo travellers in Portugal

• Wine tours in Porto – either group day tours to the Douro Valley or port-tasting tours in Vila Nova de Gaia
• Food tours – I loved the tour I took in Porto with Taste Porto and in Lisbon with Taste of Lisbon
• Surfing tours in the Algarve – I didn’t do this after many chaotic and unsuccessful surfing attempts around the world! However, you can try anything from lessons to multi-week surf camps
• Free walking tours – I’ve done these in Porto and Lisbon, as well as many other cities around the world. They’re fab!
• Kayaking trips in the Algarve – I met a bunch of other women travellers while doing this.

Insurance for solo female travel in Portugal

Although Portugal is a safe place for solo female travellers, I always recommend getting travel insurance. Although you’re unlikely to be victim to a violent crime, it’s possible that you could be pickpocketed in Portugal, and you could fall sick and need emergency treatment anywhere. I use  True Traveller : it costs £30 (€40) per month for world coverage for a year. When I’ve claimed, they’ve had the money in my account within days. They cover pre-existing health conditions and will cover you if you’re already travelling and/or don’t yet have your flight home booked.  Click to get a quote . True Traveller is just for European residents (including UK) so, for other nationalities, I recommend  Hey Mundo  and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest   Safety Wing .

FAQs about solo Portugal travel

How can you stay connected with phone plans? If you have a plan from any EU country, it will work as normal in Portugal. If you’re coming from the UK, it depends on your provider so be sure to check. From other countries, I recommend getting an E-SIM in advance with Airalo . They have Portugal packages from €4 and Eurolink SIMs covering 39 countries from €5!

Can you drink tap water in Portugal? Yes, I always did and had no problems. How can you meet other solo travellers in Portugal? I recommend staying in hostels and joining their activities. If they don’t have any, take free walking tours and sign up for excursions like cooking classes, boat trips, bar crawls and the like. I recommend GetYourGuide and Viator for these. I also recommend tapping into online communities for in-person meet-ups. Girls Love Travel and Gone Girl International are active Facebook communities or, if you’re staying longer, look up digital nomad groups.

What is the best month to go to Portugal? I would say May or September when crowds and prices are not at their peak but the weather is still glorious. How common is English in Portugal? Very common! Given the history with Spain, the locals don’t love it when tourists just speak Spanish to them, but they don’t seem to mind English. But learn a few words to be polite like obrigado/a (thank you) and good day (bom dia!). How long to spend in Portugal? If you want to do just the cities, I suggest at least 1 week for Lisbon and Porto combined. To include some beach time in your solo Portugal trip, make it two 2 weeks. Is Portugal good for vegetarians? Although Portuguese food is traditionally meaty and fishy, things are improving for vegetarians. There are lots of vegan restaurants in Porto and Lisbon now serving traditional local dishes as well as international food.

Do you need to tip in Portugal? No, there isn’t a big tipping culture. But you can leave around 10% if you enjoy your meal; Portuguese wages are low so it’s a good way to support the locals.

Thanks for reading!

I hope you have a better idea of where to travel alone in Portugal and tips & tricks for your solo trip. You’ll love it, I’m sure!

More solo travel guides…

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Where to go alone in Europe as a woman
• The perfect solo trip to Lisbon
• Solo female travel in Albania
• Complete guide to solo travel in Croatia
• Solo female Italy travel
• Is it safe to travel to Romania solo?

Solo travel in the Americas:

• Solo female travel in New York
• Is Cuba safe for solo travel?
• Mexico solo female travel guide
• Solo female travel in Mexico City
• Solo travel in Belize
• Guatemala solo travel guide

Guides to solo female travel in Southeast Asia :

• Solo travel in Bali
• Where to travel solo in Vietnam
• What to know about solo female Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo travel guide
• Taiwan solo travel guide
• South Korea solo female travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

20+ Tips for Travelling Solo in Portugal

The small print: Portugalist may generate a commission from mentioned products or services. This is at no additional cost to you and it does not affect our editorial standards in any way. All content, including comments, should be treated as informational and not advice of any kind, including legal or financial advice. The author makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors or omissions or damages arising from its display or use. Links to external websites do not constitute an endorsement. [Disclaimer Policy]

A lot of the articles written about solo travel in Portugal are quite generic, and don’t really offer any specific advice. Many are just a list of things to do (e.g. eat a pastel de nata, stroll around the city, etc.) but with the words “solo travel” in the title. I wanted to provide something that was a little more practical. Hopefully, it’s useful.

Portugal is a great destination for solo travellers, both men and women. It’s safe, affordable, friendly, gay-friendly, and English is widely spoken. If you’re looking for your next solo travel destination (or maybe your first), Portugal should be a top contender.

Accommodation for solo travellers visiting Portugal

You don’t have to stay in hostels as a solo traveller, but you’re much more likely to meet other people if you stay in a hostel than if you stay in a hotel or apartment.

However, meeting people in hostels isn’t guaranteed. Hostels should be good places to meet other travellers, but often they can be quite unsociable places. Usually this is just because someone needs to make the first move and start and a conversation and, well, nobody wants to be the person to do that, so everyone just plays on their phones.

Some hostels in Portugal do evening meals (usually for around €8-10) or free walking tours and both of these can be a great way to break the ice and meet the other people staying at the hostel. They’re perfect for people that want to meet other travellers, but aren’t looking for a party hostel.

Of course, if you are looking to party, look at the hostels mentioned below that do pub crawls or label themselves as a “party hostel.”

Some of the hostels that offer sociable meals or other communal events include:

• Home Hostel Lisbon – A popular hostel with free co-working for guests (great for digital nomads ), night’s out (but not a pub crawl), and the famous “mamma’s dinner” evening meal.
• Yes! Lisbon Hostel – Party hostel that offers a pub crawl and free walking tour.
• Lisbon Destination Hostel – Lisbon hostel set inside Rossio train station that offers pub crawls, fado tours, trips to Sintra, free walking tours, and more.
• The Independente Hostel & Suites – Boutique hostel offering communal dinners and movie nights.
• Oasis Lisbon – Popular Lisbon hostel that offers pub crawls, dinners, BBQs, and tours.
• Goodmorning Lisbon Hostel – Offering breakfasts, communal evening meals, organised pub crawls, and a free hour of beer and sangria every evening, this is definitely one of the most sociable hostels in Lisbon.
• Lost Inn Lisbon – Luxury hostel that offers different events every day, including dinners, walking tours, and free homemade sangria.
• Gallery Hostel – Boutique hostel that attracts a slightly older crowd, (late 20s-40s) and offers an evening meal and free walking tour.
• Yes! Porto Hostel – Popular Porto hostel that offers a free walking tour, pub crawl, and dinner for guests.
• Casa d’Alagoa – Popular hostel in Faro that offers communal dinners for guests.

Airbnb and Booking.com are the two accommodation websites that I use the most in Portugal. While Booking.com is great for hostels and hotels, Airbnb is great for renting a room or an entire apartment.

You would expect renting a room to mean staying in someone’s spare room, but that’s not always the case – especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto. A lot of rooms that I’ve rented in Lisbon especially have been in large houses with 4+ bedrooms where every room is an Airbnb rental. These are fine for cheap accommodation, but they usually don’t have a common area (that anyone uses anyway) and can feel a little soulless.

Staying in a hotel by yourself is quite a solitary experience, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want.

Tip: By default, Booking.com (and some other accommodation websites) assume that you’re travelling as 2 adults and 0 children. You should always change this to 1 adult as some rooms are cheaper if you’re just travelling as 1 person.

Other accommodation tips

Is portugal a good solo destination for women.

Statistically, Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world . Although pickpocketing is a problem in some touristy places, violent crime, burglaries, and other things that are a concern in other parts of the world aren’t common here.

Of course, you should still always be careful. Here are some tips for solo female travel in Portugal.

• Consider sticking to female-only dorms, if you stay in hostels – It’s not essential, but probably wiser. Tip: Hostelworld.com has a filter that allows you to search specifically for female-only dorms.
• Share your Uber driver info with a trusted friend – Uber (and the other taxi apps in Portugal) are generally very safe, but it’s better to be safe than sorry: take a screenshot and send it to a friend every time you take a taxi.
• Understand that people in Portugal stare – It’s a cultural thing in Portugal (and most of Southern Europe), and it doesn’t just apply to women.
• Avoid walking alone late at night – Portugal is probably one of the safest countries in the world to walk along late at night, but it’s always safer to get a taxi or public transport (Taxis are cheap in Portugal and taxi apps like Uber and Kapten are even cheaper).

Other tips for staying safe in Portugal (both men and women)

• Watch out for pickpockets on public transport – Pickpocketing on some public transport routes (e.g. Tram 28 in Lisbon) is quite common, so keep your valuables close to you at all times.
• Watch out for the scams – There aren’t many scams in Portugal, but it’s good to be aware of the ones that exist .
• Protect your valuables with travel (or even gadget insurance) – Most travel insurance policies cover gadgets like laptops and mobile phones up to a certain amount. Usually this isn’t as much as a new iPhone or decent laptop costs so, if you’re travelling with expensive gadgets, consider upping the amount of cover for gadgets or taking our a separate gadget insurance policy.
• Don’t leave anything on the backseat that suggests you have valuables in the car.
• If you are leaving valuables in the car, put them in the boot before you get to the car park i.e. don’t let anyone lurking see that you have valuables in the car.
• Keep people up-to-date with your travel plans – It’s a good idea to give someone a copy of your itinerary, if you have a planned out route. It’s also a good idea to regularly check in with friends and family, to let them know where you are (and that you’re enjoying yourself).
• Take a business card that has your accommodation’s address – It’s very easy to forget where you’re staying. This isn’t a problem if you have your phone with you, but what happens if you run out of battery? Having a copy of your hotel or hostel’s address means that, if you get lost, you can get in a taxi and ask the driver to take you there.

Meeting people while travelling solo in Portugal

Meeting people on the road is always a challenge, regardless of whether you’re visiting Portugal or anywhere else. Often, though, it’s just about staying in the right places and doing the right activities.

The following are just a few tips for meeting people while travelling in Portugal.

Find the meetups

If you’re visiting cities like Lisbon and Porto, you’ll find plenty of events where you can meet other locals and travellers (especially Lisbon). Meetup.com is the first place you should look, but there are also regular meetups listed on couchsurfing as well – especially Lisbon where there’s a weekly Couchsurfing meetup.

Outside of Lisbon and Porto, it’s going to be hard to find organised meetups and you’ll probably need to resort to some of the other tips below.

Go on a (walking) tour

Most big cities in Portugal have a free walking tour and these always attract plenty of other solo travellers. After the tour, everyone is usually hungry and often someone will take the initiative to ask if anyone else wants to get something to eat. It doesn’t always happen, but it happens enough that it’s worth going on a lot of walking tours (plus you’ll probably learn something from the guide).

There are other types of tours and activities, like Portuguese cooking classes for example, but a lot of those tend to attract more couples than singles.

Other tours where you’re likely to meet solo travellers:

• Pub Crawls (mainly younger solo travellers) – These are popular in Lisbon and Porto .
• Food tours (mix of ages, with some solo travellers) – Typically more sociable than a walking tour, these can be a good way to get chatting to other travellers. You’ll find food tours in most destinations in Portugal including Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.

Take to social media

• Couchsurfing: The couchsurfing app and website has a “hangouts” section which lists people who want to hangout. You can also post in the forums looking for other people that want to meetup.
• Patook : The Tinder for platonic friendships. Includes some Portuguese people for those that are interested in meeting locals.
• Tinder: Although it’s meant to be a dating app, some people create profiles and state that they’re looking for friendships. Obviously, you run the risk of someone ignoring the “platonic friendships only” but many people obviously feel it’s worth the risk.

Go on an activity holiday

Whether it’s a yoga retreat , an intensive Portuguese language course, or a walking holiday, there are plenty of ways that you can visit Portugal as part of an organised trip. With the exception of silence retreats, these can be a very good way of meeting people, seeing Portugal, and trying something new at the same time.

Note: you don’t have to go on an activity holiday for the entire time you’re in Portugal. It can just be for a few days.

Solo travel destinations within Portugal

Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve (especially Lagos and Faro ) are the most popular destinations for solo travellers visiting Portugal. These are all worth visiting, and these will be the places where you’ll probably do most of your socialising.

Depending on how off the beaten track you go, you may struggle to meet other solo travellers in other parts of Portugal. You will probably meet plenty of other people if you travel to other cities like Braga , Guimarães, or Évora , and if you stay in a hostel during the summer months, but you may struggle if you go to some of the smaller towns and villages in Portugal and more so if you travel off-season.

Solo travel is a bit like that, though: you have spells where you’re very much on your own and spells where you’re meeting lots of other people.

Those spells on your own are some of the best bits of solo travel and, because Portugal is so safe, it’s somewhere where you can go and just be by yourself without too many safety concerns. Just make sure you do the majority of your socialising when you’re in the more popular destinations so that you can appreciate the quieter stints.

FAQs about solo travel in Portugal

Is public transport safe.

Yes, both buses and the trains are both safe. Obviously, you should still be careful with your belongings etc., but both the trains and buses are somewhere that you should feel comfortable travelling on.

Tip: If you’re feeling antisocial, you can book a single seat in first class on some of the trains (and it only costs slightly more).

• Travelling by bus in Portugal (Portugalist)
• Travelling by train in Portugal (Portugalist)

Are taxis safe?

Yes, taxis are safe in Portugal. They’re also very affordable, and (apart from some unscrupulous airport taxi drivers), usually only slightly more expensive than an Uber.

Is Portugal a good destination for older solo travellers?

Portugal attracts a lot of older travellers, most of which will be travelling as part of a couple or in a group but quite a few who will be travelling solo. It’s definitely somewhere that you can feel comfortable as an older independent traveller.

Although this is definitely a country where you’ll be comfortable travelling alone, another option would be to consider a group holiday for solo travellers. An an example: justforyou.co.uk, a UK-based solo travel company aimed at travellers aged 50+, organises several trips to Portugal per year.

Find Portugalist on Facebook | X | Instagram FR | DE | ES | PT

• Active Adventures
• Beach Escapes
• Bucket-List
• Escape The Crowds
• For First-Timers
• Group Bookings
• Short stays
• Winter Getaway
• Safari Adventures
• Ambassador Adventures

Trip Styles

• Bucket List
• Short Stays

Trip duration

Collections

• For First Timers
• Winter Getaways
• Wildlife Trips

New and trending

• Our Newest Adventures
• Bestselling Adventures
• Iconic Flash Pack Experiences
• Adventures Coming Soon
• Meet Your Travel Experts
• Meet your Pack Leaders
• Don't be a tourist. Be a Flashpacker.
• The Flash Pack Foundation

How it works

• How it Works
• Payments, deposits & instalments
• Travel Extras
• About solo travel
• Careers at Flash Pack
• Partner as a Travel Agent
• Trip terms and conditions
• Safety with Flash Pack
• Flash Pack's privacy policy

Latest deals

• Save Big This Summer
• Your latest travel offers
• Your last chance to book

Insider trips

Sorry no insider trips are available right now, check back soon.

• Feed your inspiration with all the latest stories from our content hub.
• Relationships
• Career Tips

Top stories

Friendship Tips

Travel Tips

• See all articles

Favourite Trips

Destinations

SUMMER SAVINGS – save up to $400 on selected trips in June, July and August

Portugal group tours for solo travelers

Travel solo as part of a group tour to Portugal

Why travel solo to Portugal?

A solo trip to Portugal immerses you in a culture that owes much of its character to the sea – this being the final frontier between Europe and the mighty, irrepressible Atlantic.

From Porto to the Algarve, Portugal’s coastline, lays on seascapes and surfing spots that you won’t want to miss. Here, even the melancholy tones of fado music seem to take on a nautical note.

Wander through the streets of Lisbon to admire its faded beauty and fall in love with its azulejo-tiled buildings and Manueline (Gothic) churches. Further north in Porto, you’ll find the medieval streets of Ribeira, brimming with wine bars and lively plazas.

Then, there are Portugal’s wild landscapes. Tackle Sintra’s mountain trails in a 4×4 Jeep and you’ll encounter whimsical palaces and extravagant villas hidden amongst majestic pine forests. The dramatic Douro Valley is threaded with vineyards, producing some of the world’s most famous wines. And let’s not forget the volcanic Azores, 800 miles adrift in the Atlantic… After all, everything flows back to the sea here.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN PORTUGAL

Lisbon is a city of hilltop views, cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. Oh, and let’s not forget the nightlife, centered around its hive of rooftop bars and cool co-working spaces. A must for any solo traveler.

Gothic churches, age-old port lodges and azulejo-tiled buildings await in Porto, all accessible via the city’s traditional tram network. A hillside location makes for great views, too, over the rooftops and the Douro River.

DOURO VALLEY

The world has woken up to the appeal of the Douro Valley region and it’s now a must for any wine-lover. Here, some of the oldest vineyards in the world produce unique port wines against a backdrop of rolling hills and winding valleys.

This Unesco World Heritage Site and fairytale town is one of Portugal’s most-visited destinations – with good reason. Colorful houses, winding streets and the hilltop Palacio Nacional da Pena castle are just some of its storybook attractions.

Trips to Portugal

Azores: the Emerald Isles

This is Portugal

Portugal facts, what are the national languages, what is the currency.

Western European Summer Time is GMT +1

Top Three Experiences

1. Learn to surf 2. Lisbon sunset boat cruise 3. 4×4 tour of Sintra and Cascais National Park

Top five dishes to try

1. Bacalhau – salted cod 2. Chicken piri piri – butterflied barbecued chicken 3. Francesinha – multi-layered sandwich of meat & cheese, topped with a rich port sauce 4. Pastel de nata – custard tart 5. Caldo verde – soup made of potatoes, greens and chorizo

Average temp in high season

What's The Weather Like?

Portugal has an average summer temperature of 79ºF (26ºC) and the average winter temperature is 63ºF (17ºC). The best time to visit Portugal if you are looking for pleasant weather is in spring (April to May). Fall (September to October) is also a good time to go when the crowds have dispersed and the sun is still shining.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter.

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else.

Be the first to hear about exclusive Flash Pack offers.

Access exciting competitions.

Receive weekly inspiration and travel stories from solos just like you.

You are browsing our US website.

Please choose your current location below:

You are browsing our UK website.

10 Best Places in Portugal for Solo Travel

I reckon Portugal is one of the best (and most underrated) countries in Europe for solo travel – it’s beautiful, vibrant, good value, and has amazing beaches. It’s also got one of the best hostel scenes in the whole wide world. What’s not to love? Let’s look are some of the best destinations if you’re flying solo to Portugal this year.

The big cities are a lot of fun – with a buzzing nightlife and incredible cultural scene. Independent travel is thriving along the coast where you’ll find a laid-back surfer vibe present, even in the big beach resorts. But it’s also easy to get off the beaten path in Portugal if you want – just head inland.

And let’s just talk about those hostels for a moment. The Portuguese certainly take pride in their hostels – boutique design is par for the course here. Standards are high and most hostels also have an emphasis on social activities and always seem to offer something extra (bar crawls, BBQs, evening meals, free walking tours, yoga, wine tasting, beach runs, etc.). 

English is widely spoken amongst the younger generation in Portugal and public transport is easy to figure out. But if you’re apprehensive about solo travel in Portugal here are some go-to destinations where you’ll find everything you need for a stress-free solo trip – including hostels, good transport links, a bit of nightlife, and a range of activities and tours suitable for solo travellers.

One of Europe’s top city break destinations and digital nomad hotspots, capital city Lisbon is popular for good reason. Its cobbled streets, retro trams and tiled buildings are hugely atmospheric. Lisbon has fascinating historic sites, fado, and great bar scene. It’s not far from the beach. Oh, and don’t forget to eat custard tarts. Lots of them. 

There are so many amazing hostels in Lisbon that it’s hard to list them all. And considering their very reasonable prices, the hostels in Lisbon are excellent value for money. Every year they seem to dominate the HOSCARS (Oscars for hostels).

My personal favourite is the centrally-located boutique hostel Lisbon Lounge – the nightly social dinners were a highlight of my trip. The same team also run Living Lounge . If you’re travelling during the summer then the rooftop pool at Sunset Destination Hostel takes some beating though.

Not to be outdone, Portugal’s second city takes atmosphere into overdrive with its tile-fronted (and UNESCO-listed) buildings, riverside setting and hipster modern cultural scene. The cuisine here is amazing, as is befitting a city on with the Douro vineyards on its doorstep – take a food tour, wine-tasting, or hop on the wine train to explore the valley’s port lodges. 

It’s not to be outdone on the hostel front either. The art-filled Gallery Hostel is the classic choice; it was one of the original boutique hostels in town and still gets rave reviews. But The Passenger Hostel is the coolest hostel on the block – it’s located in a historic train station and takes design luxe to a new level. If surf is your jam check out Salty Days Lodge .

Lots of travellers don’t make it to inland Portugal, but picturesque Coimbra is well worth a day or two of your time if you want to break up a journey between Porto and Lisbon with a slice of local life. History nerds (and photographers) can geek out in the old medieval town at the wide array of monuments and architectural styles on display – from Roman to Moorish to baroque. It’s a university town and the large student population keeps things lively and cheap. The university buildings themselves are on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The Luggage Hostel is clean and modern and quiet, but if you’re looking for somewhere social then Hostel Se Velha or Serenata are better bets.

Welcome to Peniche, a sleepy fishing village turned surf capital of Portugal (and perhaps all of Europe). The seafood here is as spanking fresh as the Atlantic breeze. Around the bay is the Baleal peninsula where you’ll find beaches facing different directions – meaning there’s always a wave to ride. Baleal is popular with local surf schools and camps. The big waves are over at famed Praia dos Supertubos, where the Rip Curl Pro annual tournament is held, and at Nazaré.

The main attractions in Peniche are nature and surf-related (those endless sunsets!), and summer brings a buzz to the town. Non-surf highlights of the area include the Berlingas – a cluster of uninhabited islands 10km offshore which form a nature reserve, and the pretty town of Obidos. 

For accommodation, there’s no shortage of surf lodges. Check out the highly-rated Castaway Guesthouse , Surfies Baleal and The Peniche Hostel for starters.

Another top spot for surfers is the town of Ericeira, which is just 30 minutes from Lisbon. It’s proximity to the capital means it has a bit more life out of season – the sun-bleached streets are popular with weekenders from the city looking for ocean views and delicious food. 

Of all the hostels and lodges in town, Aktion Surf House stands out for its outdoor space and fun active vibes (though there are plenty of options closer to town). Outside Ericeira, Ondina Guesthouse has soothing boutiquey neutrals and – like many of the surf lodges – it offers yoga (either PAYG or packages) as well as surf lessons.

Cascais is Lisbon’s super fun beach resort outpost and is just 35 minutes on the regular commuter train from Lisbon. The area around Cascais is known as the Portuguese Riviera and features some fabulously colourful and unique villa architecture as well as a traditional resort feel. It has the perfect balance of city access and beach if you want to escape the heat of the city in summer.

The friendly and chic The Salty Pelican Beach Hostel has surf, yoga and BBQs on offer. The other top pick is the spacious Nice Way Cascais with its boutique design (including pod beds) and an outdoor pool.

Sintra is no stranger to Top Ten lists – the photogenic palace complex is one of Portugal’s top tourist attractions. But most tourists simply nip over to Sintra for a day trip – usually to visit the Pena Palace (pictured) – then back to Lisbon.

But if you do it that way you’re missing out because Sintra isn’t just the palace complex – it’s also a town and a national park (known as the Sintra-Cascais National Park). There’s magic in the air here, and the scenery here is beautiful. Staying in Sintra for a few days gives you the time to explore more of Sintra’s fairytale palaces, and also the park’s wild beaches – which are surprisingly crowd-free given its proximity to Lisbon.

The Almaa Sintra Hostel is an eco-hostel set in its own gardens, or you can even stay in a renovated palace at the quirky Sintra Nice Way hostel.

Portugal’s popular Algarve area is where most of the country’s summer tourism is based. Many skip through its capital Faro and head straight for the beach (and who can blame them – the beaches are epic), but Faro has a beautiful old town and is a good base for the region.

The city is surrounded by the extensive 5km Faro beach and the swirling lagoon sands of the Rio Formosa (complete with flamingos), pretty cobbled backstreets and the legacy of Moorish rule and the area’s fishing and salt panning heritage. The Algarve may be touristy but here you can still feel the local character.

Faro is a hub for cheap flights with Europe’s budget airlines (I recommend Skyscanner for finding the lowest fares), and it’s also the last major stop before Spain. Don’t miss a boat trip around the Rio Formosa.

Stay at Casa d’Alagoa for weekly BBQs and a great social atmosphere, whereas Wax Hostel is right on the beach and really nails laid-back coastal cool.

If you’re heading to Portugal because of all those photos you’ve seen of amazing beaches with giant rock formations and golden sand, then be sure to hit up the Algarve city of Lagos. It’s one of the best beach cities in Europe – with a lively party scene and several small town beaches plus close proximity to some of the Algarve’s stunners such as Praia do Camilo (pictured) with its famous wooden staircase. Lagos itself has a pleasant whitewashed old town with historic churches. 

For accommodation, Old Town Hostel is my pick for backpackers who like activities. Taghostel brings the boutique vibes. If what you’re after is beach chill, try the villa-style Bura Surfhouse which is a walkable distance from town but has a pool and an emphasis on relaxed vibes.

10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Portugal

Where to Stay in the Algarve: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

Wild View Retreat – Juice & Yoga in the Algarve

10 Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel

10 Best Places in Croatia for Solo Travel

Enjoyed this post? Click to save to Pinterest:

Share this post:

Deals of the Week   Solo is the new black   Up to 50% OFF

Portugal and Spain Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ portugal and spain tours for singles / solo travelers with 3,118 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Iberian Explorer (13 Days)

I found the travel director , this driver and all the specialist staff professional, friendly and helpful throughtout our trip

France, Spain and Portugal

Great see it all kind of tour. Albeit, demanding at times with its rigid schedule for departures and short turnarounds at some very interesting places. But we knew ahead of time what to expect considering all we saw and had to see. The best tour guide we had during all 17 days on this circuit was Luis Cebollada. He consistently went out of his way to accommodate requests and improve upon the cultural experience in each country. His knowledge of the sights and the people was insightful and very helpful during our tour. All and all...a memorable and unforgettable experience.

Spain, Portugal & Morocco

This tour was truly Amazing!!! 18 days thru Spain, Portugal and Morocco We loved it. Could not fault it. Well worth the money we paid. The guides were amazing truly looked after us. All the meals were delicious and accomodation was fantastic. . We had free time which I was a bit worried there would be none but plenty. We would Highly recommend Tourradar and will differently be using them again. Well done.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Andalucia & Morocco

Wonderful trip. Amazing places. Great guides. We will vacation again with TourRadar.

Spanish Ring with Lisbon

I took my mother to this trip. It was my first time joining a tour group and first time in Europe and I must say this trip did not disappoint. We had an amazing time, lots of places we have seen in Spain and Portugal in a limited time. The tour was well organised. The tour bus and hotel were comfortable. Our tour guide- Linus was exceptional! Friendly and approachable man, always helpful and accomodating. I highly recommend this tour =D

Portugal, Andalucia and Morocco from Madrid

Good for the prize of the tour

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Spain and Portugal Explorer

Fantastic saw so much love the age the architecture

It was good, but tiring.

Best of Spain & Portugal

Overall experience was great! Good pace, great cities and great hotels overall. However the hotel in Coimbra (Hotel Astoria) was disgusting. It should absolutely NOT be used by Tour Radar any longer.

Portugal, Andalusia and Morocco (Multi country)

Tour Radar and Destination Spain did not advise at any time that neither of them were actually the tour operators. As a result of this we were very close to not being picked up at all as there was a mix up with paperwork and we had no idea it was a different company. We will not go through a third party again. In saying that the actual tour itself was good. Guides were great, accommodation was excellent. Well done Julia Tours.

Ultimate Spain & Portugal

My husband and I loved our Portugal- Spain tour. There was plenty of free time and all of the group adventures were wonderful. Our CEO Beatriz Oubel went above and beyond to help every person on the tour. She was knowledgeable, helpful and never showed any signs of stress for the entire 21 days. She made the entire vacation better. We will definitely search out tour with her as CEO. Susan Mendes

Discovery of Spain & Portugal - 15 days

The overall experience was magnificent. First, I admire the punctuality of the tour. Our tour guide Alejandra (Mappa plus) constantly reminded us both in Spanish and English of the activities and allotted time for every stop, being in the tourist spot, technical stop, and hotel. Second, I appreciate the suggestions of the tour guide for every destination we reached. She narrates the safety of all passengers, be it on the bus or outside in public places. Best photo locations were also stated, with a corresponding time element for picture-taking. Third, I appreciate the history of every location visited. The information given was relevant and also useful for the reasons that the structures were constructed. The history of Lisbon being damaged was mentioned and the great Marquee was responsible for the re-growth of Lisboa. Lastly, the tour leader regarded all the tourists from different nations as one big family. Respect for one another was elicited and bonding from tourist activities was established. The boat ride visualizing the horreos included wine drinking, dancing, and eating. This broke the ice and people from different cultures were united in dance and merry-making. Me and my wife had the best experience of discovering Spain and Portugal and making memories with photos. The whole trip rendered us safe with no health issues. The hotel accommodations were alright as other hotels offer better amenities. Other hotels don't have slippers, toothbrushes and shavers. Breakfast was almost the same in each hotel but otherwise satisfying. In summary, the tour has delivered the best quality care and utmost sightseeing in proportionate to the fees selected.

• Coastal Walks
• Sightseeing

Best of Spain and Portugal (Classic, Summer, End Barcelona, 15 Days)

Best of Spain and Portugal (Classic, Summer, End Madrid, 15 Days)

Fátima, Lourdes & Shrines of Spain - Faith-Based Travel

Cosmos coordinated Travel guide, Jorge Leitao, excellent in both organization and knowledge

What people love about Portugal And Spain Solo Tours

I really loved our tour guide Ana Rita Lima. She helped us through a couple rough patches and I appreciate that. Very energetic and delightful!! I loved every bit of the tour except the hotel quality on the first night of the tour. It needed a vending machine that worked and more opportunity to get snacks upon arrival. It was just very basic. Also the hotel in ( I can't remember which city) we didn't have air conditioning. Our tour guide told us of where to be cautious (pick pockets) and some things we should be aware of. I appreciate that they stopped regularly for food and bathrooms breaks. Our driver, Rui, ( proved to have great skill, navigating in traffic, fog, rain and parking!! Overall, a great tour, with important history and valuable information!! With the exception of two poor quality hotels it was a memory that will last a life time. By the way, the Best Western in Barcelona is much better than the one we stayed in on the tour.

Hello Tour Radar, I went on a 21 day tour of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Before I go any further, I DO NOT wish this review to be used in any market or advertising fulfillment piece. The tour was excellent and fit my goals perfectly. I wanted to get an overview of western Spain, Portugal and Morrocco so that I could come back and spend longer in my preferred destinations on another occasion. Also excellent was Javier, the VPT guide for Spain and Portugal. He went above and beyond to make sure that it was an excellent experience. I loved his organizational detail. The Morocco guid (Hassan) was not as good but I believe this can be explained by the fact that he had just come off a knee operation and was always in a lot of pain. He tried his best. Not so good - I was on a tour with people who signed up through Wing Buddy and they had a different contract than I (TourRadar). This meant that on the last day, back in Madrid, they went on a panoramic tour whereas I was not allowed. What company would start and end a tour in Madrid, but not allow me to discover Madrid. Seems very weird. Wing Buddy's printed itinerary was more comprehensive than Tour Radar's. Some of the meal inclusions were different and a couple of days in Morocco turned out to be different also. My biggest complaint turned to have nothing to do with VPT, Wing Buddy or Tour Radar. It was about my fellow tourist. Some were racist or at the very least xenophobic, another sub group banded together to make sure they got all the experiences before other members and there was tension between English speakers and Spanish speakers. All in all, my biggest disappointment was the behavior of other members of the group. By the way, I can suggest some good people who could design a reliable and valid survey for you because there is very little about this survery that is valid or relaible. Let me know.

• Seniors tours (160)
• Young Adults tours (5)

Travel Styles

• Budget (65)
• Luxury (37)
• Singles and Solo (271)
• For Couples (176)
• Young Adults (5)
• Seniors (151)

A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Lisbon Solo Travel Guide For First Timer’s + Map

Solo travel to Lisbon is all the rage these days. But I have to be honest when I first arrived in the capital city alone I wasn’t very impressed.

Simply put, I thought the city was ugly , and might be unsafe! To be fair I had just arrived after visiting Barcelona, and comparatively, the cities are just very different aesthetically.

I was judging the old and incredible city of Lisbon at first glance. And very soon I soon realized my assumptions and fears had absolutely no merit.

And the biggest plot twist was years after my first solo trip to Lisbon I ended up moving here in late 2023!

Now, full of knowledge and love for the city , I’m here to share all my insider advice and helpful tips.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

What To Expect Arriving In Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital , is a trendy European destination for expats and solo travelers.

And like I mentioned, the city is old, and in some places appears rundown.

Trust me when I say that the graffiti on the buildings doesn’t mean it’s a bad neighborhood.

You’ll notice that many locals have a good grasp of English and can help with basic inquiries , though not everyone might be fluent.

The people of Lisbon are much friendlier than in other European cities such as Paris , for example. I have also felt very safe alone in Lisbon, even walking alone at night.

Just use your common sense —while Portugal’s crime rates are low, it’s wise not to leave your stuff unattended.

Lisbon is full of fun and interesting things to do, and it’s a city that will make you feel welcome right away!

How to Get To Lisbon From Humberto Delgado Airport

Getting to the city center from the Lisbon airport is very easy! I’ve done this commute many times since living here.

Depending on your comfort level as a solo traveler, you can choose which is best for you!

By Train🚊

Lisbon’s metro system is super convenient and easy to navigate, even if it’s your first time visiting. As you step out of Airport Terminal 1, just follow the metro signs to find your way.

If you happen to arrive at Terminal 2, no worries—you’ll need to head over to Terminal 1 first, which you can do by either walking or catching the shuttle bus.

Once you’re at the metro, take the escalator down to the subway level. You’ll notice red ticket machines to your left, where you once had to buy a ticket to the city center.

However, Lisbon has updated its system , making things even more straightforward.

Now, you don’t need to buy a ticket at all . Simply tap your credit card at the entry gate and again when you leave the station.

The metro is open from 6.30 am to 1 am and a  single fare costs €1.80 . 📲 Download the Lisbon Subway Map here!

By Uber / Taxi 🚕

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or just are not comfortable taking public transit you can get an UBER or taxi.

Taxis are lined up outside either terminal . In a taxi you can expect to pay from €12 to 15 euros to the city center from the airport.

🛑 Not all taxis accept credit card s, so be sure to ask upon entering.

For Uber , just follow the signs as you exit Terminal 1. These will guide you to the P2 parking area right outside the arrivals hall.

My experience is that Ubers are always less than taxis and most recently I paid around €10.

📲 Get all my tips for Portugal + a Free Google map when you subscribe to my newsletter!

Is Safety A Concern in Lisbon for Solo Travelers?

Solo travelers can feel safe in Lisbon, the seventh safest capital worldwide, thanks to Portugal’s low violent crime rates . It’s impressively safe for a major city.

That said, it’s still wise to stay mindful of your belongings. Like in any large city, pickpockets exist, though neither I nor anyone I know has personally experienced theft here. It’s rare, but it’s always better to be cautious.

This is one reason I always opt for travel insurance on my trips . Whether it’s the risk of losing something or the chance of theft, it’s comforting to know you’re covered. You can never be too prepared.

Women traveling solo can confidently explore the country on their own . I’ve journeyed alone to both Porto and Faro by train and felt entirely secure throughout my travels.

Best Areas To Stay Solo in Lisbon

Whenever I’m visiting a city by myself, I make it a point to stay in the city center , even if it means spending a bit more .

It’s worth the extra cost versus staying on the outskirts and feeling a bit insecure.

Here’s a quick guide to picking a neighborhood in Lisbon:

• Chiado : Ideal for those who love shopping and trendy cafes.
• Principe Real : Perfect for boutique shopping and scenic parks.
• Alfama : Great for experiencing traditional Fado music and historic streets.
• Cais do Sodré : Best for clubbing & nightlife and eclectic dining.
• Barrio Alto : The go-to spot for party-goers and bar hoppers.
• Baixa : Excellent for first-time visitors wanting to be close to major attractions.

🛌 Search for hotels in Lisbon by neighborhood!

Lisbon’s Best Hostel For Solo Traveler

Staying in a hostel is a great way to meet people when you are traveling alone. But staying in the “wrong hostel” could do damage to the enjoyment of your trip!

Everyone raves about Yes! Lisbon Hostel , so I had to check it out for myself to see if it was actually worth staying here.

And I have to say that this place checks out! It’s well kept, conveniently located, and has AIR CONDITIONING , which, news flash, is a big deal in Lisbon!

Best Hotel in Lisbon for Solo Travelers

If hostels aren’t your jam , I totally understand. They’re definitely an acquired taste, not for everyone.

Lucky for us, there are some fantastic hotels out there that won’t make your wallet cry, especially for solo travelers. My absolute favorite? Alecrim ao Chiado.

It’s right in the heart of everything, offers the bliss of air conditioning, and won’t break the bank.

👉Perfect for solo adventurers looking for a bit of comfort without the hefty price tag!

🛑 Neighborhoods to Avoid in Lisbon

Some neighborhoods may seem central, and the hotels might even have good reviews, but you should still consider avoiding them when possible.

This area sees a little more homeless than you want to see walking alone at night. Not to be worried if you do end up staying in this neighborhood, just be more vigilant.

Martim Moniz

Located north of Baixa-Chiado, and not a wildly unsafe area , but an area to avoid if possible . If you find yourself here during the day you are not to worry, there are just nicer areas to stay where you would feel more comfortable.

If you are aiming to stay central, you won’t even come across Chelas. Located just east of the airport , it is a neighborhood that has social housing and has had more issues in recent years.

Fun Things To Do Alone in Lisbon

Something I came to really love when I first started traveling solo was the ability to do whatever the hell I felt on any given day!

And when you are solo in Lisbon there’s an endless list of things to dive into , so boredom is off the table, guaranteed.

Check out my go-to list of activities to keep your adventure in Lisbon jam-packed with fun.

Explore Castelo de S. Jorge (SÃO JORGE CASTLE)

You don’t have to be a history lover to enjoy a visit to the iconic hilltop castle, Castelo de S. Jorge . This castle dates back to the 11th century when it was a Moorish fortification.

Plan to spend around an hour exploring the interiors and climbing the walls for different viewpoints of the city.

Pro tip: Try and time your visit around sunset! The panoramic views are spectacular.

🎟️ GET YOUR TICKETS ONLINE : The amount of people who just show up and wait in line baffles me. I paid a few more bucks for an online ticket cost, but it is worth it. Stand in line entry to the castle is €15 . It will gives you access to the grounds, towers, and exhibitions inside this significant landmark. Open daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (may differ on holidays).

Ride The 28 Tram

The 28 tram in Lisbon takes you on a cool ride through the city’s old and beautiful spots. It starts at Martim Moniz, then goes up to the Graça area where you can see awesome views of Lisbon.

This tram zigzags through Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto, towards Estrela , passing by Basílica da Estrela, ending in Campo de Ourique, near Prazeres cemetery.

This tram ride is a fun way to see many different parts of Lisbon and some famous spots.

🎟️ You can get a ticket when boarding the tram for €3 or buy a prepaid ticket at any metro station. Just buy the Navegante Card and pre-load it with at least €6.

Eat Pastel de Nata on a Terrace with a View

Have your Pastel de Nata and eat it with a view! Lisbon is known for its kiosks selling coffee, tea cocktails, and delicious snacks!

My favorite kiosk in Lisbon is located at Quiosque Porta Do Sol .

Go to a Fado Show

Going to a Fado show is touristy, sure, but it’s totally worth it . It’s one of those must-do things in Lisbon!

For those that don’t know, Fado is this really emotional type of Portuguese music . Hearing it live is super special.

You’ll find these shows, often including dinner, in cozy spots, like small bars and old-school restaurants. I can recommend O Corrido in Alfama.

It was €47 (CASH ONLY) for a 3-course dinner and a show.

Shop for Crafts & Books at LX Factory

If you are looking for unique handmade gifts and cool souvenirs you should make your way to LX Factory . It is most popular on weekends with additional vendors.

The old industrial complex turned shopping & dining spot is full of street art and one-of-a-kind finds!

LX factory is outside the city center, but a quick and cheap UBER can get you there in no time.

Explore Belém Tower and “Padrão dos Descobrimentos”

Something to pair well with a day to LX Factory is going to explore Belém and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument. These attractions are just beyond the LX factory a few more stops on the train.

Start by getting off the train from Cais do Sodré to the Belém stop . First, walk to the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, then walk ahead to the Belém tower.

You can climb to the top of the tower for some great views, but if the line is long, you could skip it.

Browse at Feira de Ladra ‘Thieves Market’

Browsing at Feira de Ladra market , known as the ‘Thieves Market,’ is a fun way to spend a day on a Tuesday or Saturday (closed the rest of the week).

It’s more antiques and buried treasured than anything else. It is free to enter and located in the Campo de Santa Clara area, near the National Pantheon ( Church of Santa Engrácia ).

Have a Drink in Bairro Alto on a Rooftop for Sunset

A little hidden gem in Lisbon is the Rooftop bar at the Barrio Alto Hotel ! It is the BEST place to have a cocktail as the sun sets over the city.

It might be smart to call ahead and see if you can get a reservation. As a solo traveler, I often get lucky and can sneak in, but you might want to play it safe.

Visit Praca do Comercio and Rossio Square

It’s almost safe to assume that you won’t miss the 2 famous squares in Lisbon, the Praca do Comercio and Rossio Square!

Things not to miss in Praca do Comercio are:

• Lisboa Story Centre: Interactive museum of the history of Lisbon and the earthquake of 1755.
• Martinho da Arcada: The oldest cafe in Lisbon where famous poet Fernando Pessoa frequented.
• Ribeira das Naus : Waterfront promenade along the Tagus River.

Things Not To Miss in Rossio Square:

• A Ginjinha : Just off Rossio, visit this tiny bar to try Ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur.
• Rossio Gastrobar : An incredible spot for a rooftop cocktail and snacks at sunset.

Visit the Cathedral

If you’re in Alfama, you’ll definitely see the big Cathedral, Sé de Lisboa. It’s a nice spot to chill and grab a coffee at the nearby kiosk.

Take a Day Trip

While there are more than a couple day trips you can make from Lisbon, there is two you should really consider.

If the weather is nice, a day trip to the beach town of Cascais is a no-brainer! Just 40 minutes north and you will arrive in the most beautiful coastal town. I would plan to spend at least 2-3 hours walking around and exploring.

Alternatively, you could make the day trip to Sintra! Another 40-minute train ride will take you to this magical forest with the most incredible castles, museums, and old town.

Deciding between Cascais or Sintra can be tough, hopefully, you have time for both!

Getting Around Lisbon

Many of the attractions in Lisbon are all within walking distance of each other which makes it very convenient.

👉 However, something you need to have to get around easily in Lisbon is stamina!

You might have seen memes and funny Instagram reels of people going 100 meters straight uphill. And it’s no exaggeration. Lisbon is full of steep inclines and hundreds upon hundreds of stairs.

Luckily there is a metro, BUT the metro doesn’t get close enough to some of the places you might want to go.

Trams will take you within the neighborhoods and up those hills, but thanks to tourism, they can be very crowded.

My advice is get some comfortable shoes, and don’t worry about how they look, you’ll appreciate the tip.

PRO TIP: I know it sounds “gimmicky” but you should really get the Lisbon card! It comes with free access to the transit system + loads of attractions.

Things to Be Cautious of in Lisbon

• The titled sidewalks are pretty, but VERY SLIPPERY! Most slippery when wet and in the heat. It can be downright dangerous, especially if you have mobility concerns. Bring slip-proof shoes like these.
• Stay clear of Drug Pushers . More common in areas like Barrio Alto or on Pink Street, you might encounter people pushing drugs. Just walk away.
• Don’t assume all hotels have air conditioning . Surprisingly many don’t and the summer months get very warm.

Where to Next?

After you’ve fully explored Lisbon you might be wondering where you should go next? Another city that is fantastic for solo travel is Porto!

While I’d argue you need more than 24 hours in Porto , if that’s all you have you should go! Porto is located north, 3 hours by train from Lisbon.

It is the 2nd largest city in Portugal with so much to see and do it’s the perfect next destination!

The weather in Porto is less pleasant than Lisbon, so if that is the case, you can also consider visiting the Algarve for a few days!

Faro is located just 3 hours south of Lisbon and it is a good base to make many day trips from!

No matter whether you go north or south, you will certainly love all the solo travel you can do within this beautiful country!

Looking For A Solo Travel Community?

It’s all about community! There is something here for everyone, whether you are just getting started or consider yourself a veteran solo traveler.

Find support, inspiration, and friendship by joining our community!

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

Related Posts

Are Solo Trips to Greece Safe For Women? The Truth From Female Travelers

If you are wondering “is Greece safe for solo female travellers” you’ve come to the right place. I have been taking solo trips to Greece for the past 10 years! It’s definitely a safe place for women to travel. In 2023, I moved and found a new home in Athens, a place where I’ve always…

Foolproof Copenhagen 3 Day Itinerary For First Timer’s + Map

Three days in Copenhagen will go by in the blink of an eye, so you want a well-thought-out itinerary. There is so much to see in Copenhagen from the famous Nyhavn Harbor, historic Tivoli Gardens, and the infamous Freetown Christiania. And without proper planning, you could miss something! While 3 three days in Copenhagen may…

Ultimate Guide For a Safe Solo Trip to Amsterdam + Map

So you are thinking of doing a solo trip to Amsterdam? Right on, Amsterdam is awesome. But is the city safe? An important question to ask for sure. Let me give you some assurance, YES! Amsterdam is safe. Take it from me, someone who’d spend hours searching “Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?” reading…

The Complete Day Trip to Verona Itinerary & Guide + Map

Let me take you on a day trip to one of my favorite Italian cities, VERONA! I’ve been to this picturesque town twice in the last few years! It is one of the easiest places to reach from nearby destinations such as Milan, Florence, and Bologna! Depending on where you are in Northern Italy, Verona…

The 5 Reasons & Life-Changing Benefits of Traveling Alone

Traveling alone is a life-changing step towards achieving inner confidence and strength. Once I started traveling, my world began to open up, and what I wanted for myself began to change rapidly. With each trip I took, I learned something new, and my life goals adjusted. I want to share my story and talk about…

The Top 5 Concerns For Solo Female Travelers

So you are planning on traveling solo? Hi, I’m Melissa, a single woman traveling alone for over a decade now. I’m very familiar with the questions should you be asking yourself about traveling by yourself. This whole site is a dedicated resource and guide to all things solo female travel. Once you declare your adventurous…

What are you looking for?

Portugal Tours & Vacations

A perfect little pocket of European bliss.

It’s not just the birds that are heading south – flocks of travelers have discovered that   Spain’s   little neighbor packs a mighty punch. A country of historically mixed fortunes, Portugal is having a moment in the spotlight which will almost certainly linger. From the Algarve’s dramatic coastline to the terraces of the Douro Valley wine region, from Lisbon’s steep cobbled streets to the Azores’ volcanic peaks, Portugal is packed with history, beauty and some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever encounter. And the food? Just you wait.

Our Portugal trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Portugal tour reviews

Filter by rating

Highlights of Portugal

Hike the Rota Vicentina in Portugal

Articles of Portugal

Step out with confidence with this plus-sized guide to walking tours

The top 7 destinations for travel in April 2024

6 reasons why you should do a guided Camino walk

Why you should do a guided walking tour in Europe (something I learned the hard way)

The top 10 destinations for travel in October 2024: Europe edition

10 things you’ll experience on an Intrepid Retreat in Europe

Tram carts and custard tarts (and other ways Lisbon will win your heart)

I’m a solo traveller in my 40s; here’s why I love group tours

Portugal at a glance

Capital city.

Lisbon (population approximately 2.8 million)

Approximately 10.2 million

(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Portugal

Culture and customs.

Portugal is a Roman Catholic country that has been influenced by many cultures over the years. The Portuguese hold onto traditional family values and are renowned for their appreciation of food and the arts, with three Portuguese cities – Lisbon, Porto and Guimaraes – having been designated   European  Capitals of Culture.

Walk the streets of a Portuguese city and you’ll be greeted by color and chatter. The locals love nothing more than having a chat with each other, or with tourists, be it about the weather or politics or football. More often than not, these conversations take place during one of the day’s endless number of coffee breaks, or around the lunch or dinner table. Debates are encouraged, particularly with a glass of port in hand.

Pop into a bar in Lisbon and you may be greeted by the mournful sound of ‘fado’, a Portuguese style of music that’s listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The lyrics often relate back to the sea and a sense of nostalgia, homesickness and longing, and it holds such a special place in Portugal’s heart that when Amalia Rodrigues, the so-called ‘Queen of Fado’, died in 1999, three days of national mourning were declared.

This love of the arts isn’t limited to music either; Lisbon is jammed full of art galleries and even the pavements, all over the country, are patterned and decorated in a mosaic style. It’s just one example of the Portugal’s love of beauty, whether that beauty is found in art, food or each other.

History and government

The Iberian Peninsula was once made up of various tribes including the Celts, Aquitani, Iberians and Turdetani. Trade had been established across the Mediterranean by the   Greeks  and Phoenicians, though the Romans came to control the entire peninsula. As the Roman Empire began to weaken, the peninsula was invaded by various barbarian tribes and the Visigoths came out victorious. They controlled the entire Iberian Peninsula and converted to Catholicism.

The Moors and Reconquista

Meanwhile, Islamic forces had been slowly sweeping from the   Middle East   to Northern Africa and in AD711 the Moors crossed the Gibraltar Strait and defeated the Visigoths. They pushed north and conquered nearly all of the peninsula, though the Christian kingdom of Asturias held strong in the northwest thanks to the protection of the surrounding mountains. The Iberian Peninsula was known as Al-Andalus and became a centre for science and progress, though infighting eventually led to the area being split into a number of independent Muslim states.

In the 11th century, Christian soldiers from across   Europe  answered the call to fight the ‘infidels’ during a period known as the Reconquista. The Moors were pushed south and, in 1139, Afonso Henriques declared himself the King of Portugal after defeating the Moors in the south. The Algarve was conquered in the late 13th century and Portugal’s borders were defined.

Global expansion

After securing their borders, the Portuguese turned their attention abroad. Nearby   Morocco  was the first target and Portugal’s victory spurred the country into global exploration.   Africa , Southern India and   Brazil   followed, as well as trading posts in Timor,   China   and more. Their plan was simple: despite having a relatively tiny population, they would build their empire through trade.

This, of course, was unsustainable for such a small nation and they eventually found themselves in and out of Spanish rule towards the end of the 17th century. A period of peace and prosperity ensued until a giant earthquake hit Lisbon in 1755, leveling the city and causing tens of thousands of deaths. The Prime Minister at the time, Marques de Pombal, famously promised to ‘bury the dead and heal the living,’ and somehow did just that.

19–20th centuries

After Brazil’s independence was recognized in 1825 the Portuguese focused in on the domestic front. Education improved, as did women’s rights, and slavery was ended across the Portuguese colonies. Still, discontent was spreading as inequality rose and the monarchy was seen as a cause of this: the king, Carlos, was assassinated and his son was exiled to the UK – an unstable republic was born.

Over the following 16 years there were 45 changes of government. Coup after coup after coup took place, with Portugal supporting the Allies in WWI and remaining neutral in WWII. The post-war years saw yet another coup in Lisbon, known as the Revolution of the Carnations, led by military personnel sympathetic to the colonies, and the decolonization of territories swiftly followed. Countries like East Timor and Angola were plunged into chaos and by the late 1970s, Portugal was equally, if not more, unstable.

It’s been a long slog for Portugal and the economy is by no means safe. The country was in a serious recession for years, but the past five years have seen unemployment drop and wages rise. There’s been a heavy investment in green energy too. And though tourist numbers continue to swell and boost the economy, the cities are facing similar problems to a lot of European hotspots: rising rents and cost of living, thanks to tourism, are forcing locals out of the city centres. But for now, Portugal is going from strength to strength and looking positively towards the future.

Geography and environment

Portugal is located on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula. It shares an extensive land border with   Spain   to the east and north, while the west and south of the country are hugged by the Atlantic Ocean. The country’s geography varies from north to south and is a nice mix of plains, woodlands, mountains and beaches.

The extensive coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, with the south of Portugal, an area known as the Algarve, being particularly popular with tourists. The northern coast is equally beautiful but more influenced by the Atlantic and experiences more rain and wild weather, particularly during the winter.

To the west of Portugal is the island archipelago known as the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal. These islands have been visited by sailors for centuries and are renowned for their dramatic beauty. The volcanic peaks, lush landscapes and colourful fishing villages host some 250,000 residents across nine islands. The Azores has a subtropical oceanic climate, which is warm in summer but by no means a ‘tropical paradise’. The Atlantic makes the temperature much more mild than the islands of the Mediterranean.

Inland Portugal is defined by the Douro River, which empties through Porto, and the Tagus River, which empties through Lisbon. Portugal’s south features rolling plains with a relatively warm and dry climate, while the north is far more mountainous with a wetter climate. The highest point on mainland Portugal is Torre (1993 m/6539 feet) in the Serra da Estrela range, which is a popular skiing destination in the winter.

Eating and drinking

It’s unsurprising, given Portugal’s location, that seafood plays a massive role in the Portuguese diet. In fact, the national dish of bacalhau (salted cod) can supposedly be cooked in over 365 ways, one for each day of the year. But it’s not just seafood that’s on the menu – the Portuguese have a varied and, quite frankly, mouth-watering range of dishes as well as a world-class wine industry.

Keep an eye out for some of these while traveling through Portugal: 

• Caldeirada This stew, which is packed with several different types of fish, is one of Portugal's most popular and enduring dishes. Expect sardines, cod, haddock, tuna and mackerel, doused in white wine and olive oil, served with a chunk of crusty bread. Simple but effective!
• Pasteis de Nata The Portuguese custard tart has wrapped its delicious ­– and admittedly non-existent – arms around the globe and the world’s tastebuds are cheering. These gooey little goodies feature flaky pastry and custard filling and can be eaten by the dozen (but shouldn’t be, for health reasons).
• Carne de Porco á Alentejana The popular Portuguese version of surf and turf hails from the Alentejo region but can be found served all throughout Portugal. Featuring pork and clams as the hero ingredients, white wine, paprika and coriander add flavor that is difficult to resist.
• Feijoada Brazil's national dish was actually invented by the Portuguese and this stew still endures as a common favorite in Portugal. Featuring beans, pork or beef and vegetables, this hearty stew is typically served with rice, although regional differences make this dish a different proposition every time.
• Entrecosto com Mel Meat lovers will salivate over these succulent pork ribs marinated in honey, garlic and liquor. Served with a side of chili sauce, this oven-roasted feast is perfect for a decadent celebration.
• Francesinha This is Porto’s sandwich to end all sandwiches. Translating as the ‘Little Frenchie’, this dish is anything but. It’s the Portuguese adaptation of the classic   French  toastie and features bread, pork, sausage, bacon and beef, topped with cheese and a fried egg and served with fries on the side. Give it a try ­– you won’t regret it (you almost certainly will).
• Port Portugal’s Douro Valley, upriver from Porto, is the third-oldest wine region in the world and the only one capable of producing port wine. Fortified wines are made all over the world but only wines from the Douro can be labelled as ‘port’. A sweet red wine, usually served for dessert, port has been made in the Douro since the mid-18th century and the landscape is as beautiful as the wine is delicious.

Festivals and events

If you're traveling to Portugal you better pack your party shoes. No matter what time of year you're visiting, you'll see the locals take to the streets for some kind of 'festa'.

Santo Antonio Festival

Sometimes known as the Festival of Sardines, this festival takes place in mid-June though it’s part of a full month of celebrations in Lisbon. Portugal’s capital is filled with people grilling fish in the street and celebrating St Anthony, the patron saint of the city. The streets are filled with revelers, with the party beginning in the afternoon of June 12 and continuing until sunrise – June 13 is a bank holiday.

If you can’t make it to Brazil for Carnaval and happen to be in Europe, Portugal is the place to head for some wild times. Colorful parades and heaving street parties take place all over the country in celebration of the beginning of Lent.

Obidos Medieval Festival

From mid-July to August, Obidos hosts a medieval festival filled with jousting knights, feasts and performances, all in front of the city’s imposing castle. The town recreates medieval Europe with banners and flags strung across the town and soldiers, jugglers, minstrels and more wandering the streets.

Music festivals

Portugal’s summer features a number of hugely popular music festivals that attract superstar acts from across the globe. Some of the biggest are Primavera Sound in Porto, the Portuguese adaptation of the Barcelona-based festival, and Rock in Rio, which is held every two years in Lisbon, as well as NOS Alive.

Portugal offers up the full gamut of shopping experiences from big city malls to dusty little antique stores hidden in the winding backstreets. Shopping not really your thing? That's fine, just eat your way through the country instead.

Remember, it's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

A great keepsake from a trip to Portugal is a bottle of fortified from its spiritual home. Wander down Porto’s steep streets to the harbor and spend some time visiting the port houses lining the water. You can do tastings, enjoy a meal and pick up a bottle from famous houses like Taylor’s and Sandeman’s, or opt for something a little different like Kopke, which is the oldest port house in Porto and has been producing the sweet stuff since 1638.

Azulejos are colorful, decorative tiles that can be found on surfaces all over Portugal. They were used as a form of art as well as to control the temperature in homes. The tiles are classically blue and white, although they are found in other colors, and can be bought brand-new or found in antique stores across the country.

Galo de Barcelos

The Rooster of Barcelos is the unofficial symbol of Portugal. There are various legends surrounding the rooster, but they all come back to a passing pilgrim claiming his innocence and declaring that a cooked rooster on the dinner table would rise and crow at the hour of his hanging. Every souvenir shop in the country will have various gifts relating to the rooster, but it’s worth keeping an eye out in the various markets for a more authentic, locally crafted example.

Top places to visit in Portugal

Sip on a snifter of port in its city of birth. A colorful, cobbled city, Porto is an intoxicating concoction of harbor history, winding streets and hidden gems.

Spain & Portugal Real Food Adventure

Portugal Real Food Adventure

Classic Spain & Portugal

2. The Algarve

There’s a patch of sand for everyone along the dramatic Algarve, whether you’re there to surf, party or simply soak up the sunshine.

Explore Spain & Portugal

Live that cosmopolitan life in Portugal’s most exciting city. Architecture, nightlife, seafood and a haunting fado performance await.

Madrid to Marrakech

Home to Portugal’s oldest university and (maybe) the world’s most beautiful library, Coimbra is a cultural experience like no other.

Spain, Portugal & Morocco

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Portugal adventure, check out these books:

• The Book of Disquiet   – Fernando Pessoa
• Night Train to Lisbon   – Pascal Mercier
• The History of the Siege of Lisbon   – Jose Saramago
• Baltasar and Blimunda   – Jose Saramango
• The Portuguese: A Modern History   – Barry Hatton

Portugal travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

The months of May, June and September are considered some of the best times to see Portugal as the weather is usually fine (yet not too hot) and the attractions are less crowded than during the peak months of July and August. Autumn and winter are typically rainy and windy, yet sunny days aren't rare either. If you’re after a beach holiday, keep in mind that the water temperature on Portugal’s north coast will be very cool, even during the summer months.

Is it safe to visit Portugal?

Yes, it is safe to visit Portugal. Travelers should exercise normal precautions and keep a close eye on their belongings in crowds and heavily touristed areas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?

Portugal is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Portugal, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Portugal?

Tipping isn’t customary in Portugal except at restaurants. Adding 10 percent to the bill should be fine, or more if the service has been exceptionally good. Rounding up to the nearest euro will be appreciated by bar staff and taxi drivers too, but this is not expected. When staying at a hotel it's also standard to tip the luggage porter one euro per bag.

What is the internet access like in Portugal?

Internet access in Portugal is generally good with widespread wi-fi in both cities and smaller towns. You may wish to purchase a local SIM. The main domestic carriers are Vodafone, TMN and Optimus, but make sure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a prepaid SIM.

Can I use my cell phone while in Portugal?

Travelers should be able to use their cell phones across Portugal. The most economical way to use your phone in Portugal is by purchasing a local prepaid SIM. If you wish to use your own SIM, be sure to activate global roaming before departing your home country and always check with your carrier as to any additional charges that may be incurred.

What are the toilets like in Portugal?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the norm in Portugal. Please be aware that sometimes a small fee is required to access public toilets, so it’s worth having a small stash of euro coins for when the need arises.

What will it cost for a...?

Portugal’s unit of currency is the euro. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Short city tram or bus ride = USD 1–2
• Can of soft drink = USD 1.50–2
• Cup of coffee = USD 1–2
• Beer in a cafe or bar = USD 2–3
• Wine in a cafe or bar = USD 1–4
• Simple lunch in a café = USD 10
• Dinner and a wine in a nice restaurant = USD 20–30

Can I drink the water in Portugal?

The tap water in Portugal is safe to drink unless marked otherwise. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Portugal?

Most restaurants, hotels and larger shops in Portugal’s cities and tourist areas will accept credit cards. Smaller eateries and shops may not, so make sure you have some euro on you for smaller purchases or when visiting less frequented areas.

What is ATM access like in Portugal?

There are ATMs in all cities and most towns in Portugal. The smaller villages may not have ATMs so once again, make sure you have some cash if you plan on heading somewhere more rural.

What is the weather like in Portugal?

Portugal is one of Europe’s warmest countries. Yearly temperature averages are about 55°F in the north and 64°F in the south.

Spring and summer months are usually warm and sunny, with July and August averaging maximums between 77°F and 86°F in Porto, around 86°F in Lisbon and 86–95°F in the south. These coastal areas tend to be cooler thanks to the ocean breeze.

What public holidays are celebrated in Portugal?

1 Jan   – New Year’s Day

March/April   – Good Friday/Easter Sunday

25 April   – Liberty Day

1 May   – Labor Day

10 June   – Portugal Day

June   – Corpus Christi (60 days after Easter)

15 Aug   – Assumption of Mary

5 Oct   – Republic Implantation

1 Nov   – All Saints’ Day

1 Dec   – Restoration of Independence

8 Dec   – Feast of the Immaculate Conception

25 Dec   – Christmas Day

For a current list of public holidays in Portugal, including the movable dates noted above, go to:

timeanddate.com/holidays

Is Portugal safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Portugal legalized same-sex marriage in 2010 and has passed legislation protecting LGBT-identifying people from discrimination. Most Portuguese are open-minded and unconcerned when it comes to sexuality, particularly in the more touristed areas of Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, but it’s worth remembering that Portugal is a Catholic country in which homosexuality is still not regarded as being ‘normal’.

As far as scenes go, Lisbon has a more prominent community and the annual highlights are the Lisboa Pride Festival in June and September’s QueerLisboa Film Festival. For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Portugal accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Facilities for people with physical limitations are lacking in Portugal when compared to many other European countries. On top of this, Lisbon and Porto are very hilly, with lots of stairs and cobblestones, and visitors with disabilities may have trouble getting around.

That said, things are improving and newer hotels and restaurants, as well as modern museums, have accessible facilities. The best transportation for those with disabilities is train, with an increasing number of stations having ramps, lifts and disabled bathrooms.

As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Portugal

Pack for Portugal as you would for any other coastal European destination. If you’re traveling in the summertime, loose clothing that protects from the sun is best for the daytime, but be sure to cover your shoulders when visiting churches or other religious sites. The winters can get quite cool, as can the evenings in spring and autumn, so pack a warm jumper and a raincoat too. See our   ultimate packing list   for advice on what to bring.

What's the accommodation like in Portugal?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Portugal, you may find yourself traveling by:

Most hotels used on Intrepid tours through Portugal are small, family-run guesthouses, so expect staircases instead of lifts and small rooms big on character.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip to Portugal support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Turkey directly support our foundation partner, REFOOD.

REFOOD work directly with local communities in Portugal to rescue quality food from going to waste and use this to provide meals for those in need. Donations help them promote a circular movement that benefits the environment and helps to feed those living in food scarcity.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Porto Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Porto , Portugal? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The second largest city in Portugal, with a population of around 240,000 .
• This mercantile city, also known as Oporto , is traversed by the Douro River, one of the major waterways on the Iberian Peninsula.
• The city’s most distinguishable landmarks are its six bridges, the most famous of which is Dom Luis, built by the disciple of Gustave Eiffel.  
• Its most famous export is port wine which is exclusively produced in the Douro Valley.
• Nicknames: “Cicade Invicta” or The Unconquered City, The City of Bridges

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Euro  (EUR).
• Spoken languages:  Portuguese , although Spanish and English are also widely spoken.
• Best time to visit: from  March to September for semi-Mediterranean climate that sees averages temperatures of 24 ºC (75 ºF) coupled with dry weather.
• Arriving via airport:  Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) is served by bus €2.70 one-way or by Metro for €2.45 (requires transfers at Trindade or Bolhão stations). Taxis charge around €30.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Porto hostel for solo travelers: The House of Sandeman . Friendly, English-speaking staff, perfect location (with a view), clean rooms and comfortable beds, great facilities. Relaxed atmosphere (not a party hostel), and with delicious breakfast included daily. Makes sure to book ahead!
• Ribeira is the heart of the ancient quarter, built on hills overlooking the scenic Douro River. Known for its meandering alleyways and their hidden gems, it is the perfect setting for a cultural exploration.
• Baixa marks the city’s downtown area, known for its bustling markets, Art Deco architecture and wide range of accommodation that includes hotel chains and hostels.

GETTING AROUND

• STCP provides the metro, tram and bus services across the city and the suburbs under a unified ticketing system called Andante. Fares are charged depending on zones travelled while a 24-hour pass costs €7 or €15 for 72-hours. See official site .
• Porto Card features the advantage of unlimited access to public transportation with free or discounted access to the city’s cultural highlights, including museums. The 1-day pass + travelcard is priced at €13 (the 2-day at €20 and the 3-day is €25). See the official site .
• Taxis are somewhat overpriced (and almost useless amidst the heavy traffic in the city centre). Call +351 224 808 853 or +351 225 076 400 to book.

PORTO NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 ,   and last call is never .
• Downtown and in particular the locations of Rua Galeria de Paris and Rua Cândido dos Reis feature a heady mix of bars perfect for the casual weekend spirit.
• Cais de Gaia across the river is known for its decadent wine cellars and floodlit scenery.
• Zona Industrial combines massive nightclubs with prestige in an evening scene favored by the party crowd.
• Great bars for solo travelers: Casa da Horta (they host events and language exchanges), Barracuda Rock Club, Woodstock69 Rock Bar, Torto – Food, Bar & Cocktails, and FERRO.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Dom Luis Bridge is the arch that connects the city of Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia and was, at the time of its construction, the longest metal bridge in the world.
• Coliseu de Porto is one of the most relevant landmarks in the city, a theatre espousing Portuguese Streamline Moderne and Art Deco styles of the early 20 th century.
• Church of São Francisco is the most important Gothic monument in Porto located in the city’s historical centre labelled a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Clerigos Tower is the main feature of the city’s skyline, formerly used by incoming ships as a guide. It is located opposite the Cordoaria Gardens .

INTERESTING WALKS

• Crystal Palace Gardens overlook the Douro River and form a landscaped park featuring a domed pavilion that serves as the venue for major events. The grounds are also home to the Romantic Museum , a 19 th century mansion that showcases the lifestyles of the bourgeoisie.
• Rua Miguel Bombarda is known as art gallery street thanks to the multitude of its exhibitions on contemporary art. Tea houses, funky shops and co-working offices complete the effect.
• Avenida dos Aliados is the heart of the city, a boulevard lined with stately structures presiding over a central promenade. The Town Hall stands at the top of avenue while Praça da Liberdade signals the other end.

LOCAL WISDOM

• The six bridge cruise is a popular way to admire the wonderful structures from the leisurely waters of the Douro River and to take in the full effect of Porto’s hillside location.
• The francesinha is Porto’s iconic sandwich made with wet-cured ham, linguiça (fresh sausage) or roast meat all topped with melted cheese and served in a bowl of special tomato beer sauce.
• There are over 50 port wine lodges in the city and together they form its most popular attraction. Free tours and tastings are available and represent an educational insight into Porto’s culture and history.
• Great restaurants to try: Adega Do Carregal ($$), Fava Tonka ($$ – vegetarian), Apuro – Vegan Bar ($$), Brasão Coliseu ($$).
• Where to find good cheap eats : Mercado do Bolhão sells traditional dishes at very affordable prices. Casa Guedes is popular with locals (multiple locations). Or head straight to Conga for the bifanas. Check out daTerra (multiple locations) for a great vegan/vegetarian buffet.
• Dangerous areas : Porto is very safe. Watch out for pickpockets in tourist areas.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

• Lisbon, Portugal
• Madrid, Spain
• Barcelona, Spain

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

for Solo Travel Over 50

Ultimate Porto Solo Travel Guide (2023)

UPDATED 8/26/23

The second-largest city in Portugal is not a city to be missed. Put Porto, Portugal on your list of best places in Europe to travel solo and let my ultimate Porto Solo Travel Guide help you plan your Portugal solo trip.

This Porto Travel Guide is intentionally written for the solo traveler, first time Porto traveler, and/or older traveler (I am over 50 and have been solo traveling FOREVER) in mind. Yet, anyone can use this travel guide it to plan and book Porto travel.

Like this? Share it with others!

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For products, the goal is to first provide direct links to eco-friendly, ethical, and sustainable companies, and then to those same type (i.e., Climate Pledge Friendly Certification ), of brands that use Amazon, if possible. Therefore, you may see multiple links for one option. Should you make a purchase through any link, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Disclaimers & Disclosures and Privacy Policy for more information.

Portugal Solo Travel Guide

What is porto famous for, porto travel packing essentials, best time to visit porto portugal, how to get to porto portugal, how to get around porto, is porto safe for solo travel, best area to stay in porto solo, 5 must dos in porto portugal, more top things to do alone in porto, best porto day trips, best booking sites for porto travel, how to get the best of porto in 3 days.

If you need more Portugal travel tips to supplement your Porto travel planning, consult my ultimate Portugal Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more to plan solo travel in Portugal.

Porto’s scenery, food, culture, and people, as well as its proximity to more unforgettable destinations, make Porto a must visit city in Portugal. Don’t wait to start planning your trip to Porto, and use my 3 Days in Porto Itinerary perfect for your first-time Porto solo travel.

THE 3 Days in Porto Itinerary for First Timers (2024)

More portugal travel guides & itineraries.

• Coimbra in 1 Day Itinerary and Guide
• The Ultimate Lisbon Solo Travel Guide
• The Best of Lisbon in 4 Days Itinerary
• 7 Best Europe Beach Destinations for Solo Travelers

There are 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Portugal , with the combined Porto Historic Center, Luis I Bridge and Serra do Pilar being one of them.  

Oporto, Portugal, more commonly referred to as “Porto”, is rich in history going back 2000 years to the Romans, who originally dubbed the city Portus (“port”). Today, Porto residents refer to themselves as “Tripeiros”.  

Porto lies on the Douro River, the third largest river in the Iberian Peninsula, which is largely responsible for the city’s trade and port industry, and opens to the Atlantic Ocean nearby.  

Portugal’s second largest city, Porto is seen as “second” to Lisbon in popularity, but this is changing.  Porto has not had been affected or destroyed by earthquakes, like Lisbon, leaving it largely in tact for centuries.

The historic center, mostly consisting of the Baixa and Ribeira districts, is where the majority of the top Porto sites reside and where the tourists flock to.

Tripeiros are very friendly and welcoming. They are eager to share with you the wonders of their city and what their country offers nearby. You won’t be at a loss for things to do in Porto.

Most Tripeiros speak English but it doesn’t hurt to brush up on some Portuguese before you visit. It will only enhance your stay in Porto. Porto is worth visiting for sure.

Is Porto Worth Visiting?

Porto is worth visiting for sure. Don’t discount it on your Portugal solo travel.

If you were thinking of only visiting Lisbon, think again. The train ride from Lisbon to Porto is less than three hours, so I urge you to carve out some extra time for Porto on your over 50 single travel.

I’m not one to tell someone else how to pack, but there definitely some solo travel essentials I would recommend taking on your travel to Porto, like the following.

This list of travel essentials combined can make your Porto travel easier and more memorable while being friendlier to the environment.

Everyone says the best time to visit Porto is May through September. Yes and no. ‘Yes’ to May and September, but ‘no’ to the other summer months.

Porto Weather & Costs

The weather in Porto averages in the 40°s F to 70°s F, with warmest weather in the summer June through August. Summer provides for multiple outdoor activities, but also when it can be more crowded driving up prices. 

The winter months of December through February are the coldest and rainiest, with lower costs and outdoor opportunities. If you go, bring an eco-friendly travel umbrella .

Shoulder season months provide good weather, lower tourist costs and good daylight hours.  May is said to be one of the best months to visit Porto, but don’t discount after the summer season.

Porto in October, when I was last there, was lovely. I still had to book well in advance for decent accommodation prices.  For this Porto Solo Travel Guide, I would recommend May, September and October for your Porto solo visit.

Porto Events

Summertime is not only a good time for Porto weather, it’s also a good time for fun. Porto holds its largest street festival, Festas de São João, in June. In fact, there are many local festivals in June.

I suggest also checking the Porto events calendar to help determine which month is best for your Porto solo travel .

Accessible by airplane, car, boat, bus and train, Porto is an easy city to get to.

Bus or Train to Porto

Porto receives many trains and buses , which are usually timely and inexpensive. Most Porto trains arrive and depart from the Bento Train Station, in the central Baixa district. 

Most Porto buses arrive and depart from the Parque das   Camélias Terminal, also centrally located.

Trainline Provides Cheap Train and Bus Tickets

Flights to Porto

The airport in Porto is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), known simply as Porto Airport. Porto receives many direct flights from within the European Union and from outside of Europe.

Find Your Cheap Flight to Porto

Eco travel tips.

Skyscanner  provides a ‘Greener flights’ filter highlighting flights that emit less CO2. Additionally, you can purchase carbon offsets  through your airline  to lower your carbon footprint.

Portugal Covid Travel Tip

As of April 2023, Portugal no longer requires a Covid test for entry to Portugal .

Porto Airport to City Center

It is less than 20 km from the Porto Airport to Porto city center. There are several ways to get from Porto Airport to Porto.

If you do not have access to an airport shuttle by your hotel, the cheapest and easiest way to get to Porto city center is by the Porto metro.

Porto Airport Metro

When you arrive Porto Airport, follow the signs to the Porto metro. The Aeroporto station is minutes from the airport front door.

Buy a ticket for the E train (purple line), less than 3 €, at one of the machines (you can use a credit card). Then walk upstairs to the platform.

The metro departs the Porto airport every 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the day, and takes about 30 minutes to arrive at the Trindade metro station, in the Baixa district.  

Porto Airport Taxi and More

Faster ways, but not by much, to Porto city center are by vehicle.

You can hail a rideshare, like Uber or Bolt, at the Porto Airport, which could cost approximately 10 to 20 € (at time of writing this guide).

Shared and private Porto airport shuttles could cost approximately the same, respectively. Taxis can cost approximately 30 €.

You do have the option to hire a rental car at Porto Airport but then you’ll have to deal with gas and parking within the Porto, which could be limited in the city center. Check with your hotel or hostel first to see if they have parking available.

• The Porto Card

The Porto Card is a wonderful option for airport to city center metro transportation plus attractions, for an overall 150 discounts.

The Porto Card can be purchased for 1, 2, 3 or 4 days and covers:

• Free entry to more than 7 museums and attractions,
• 50% discounts to the Torre Dos Clérigos, Museu Da Misericórdia, and the Museu da 1ª Demarcação do Douro,
• a Port wine cellar,
• Unlimited access to the Porto metro, STCP city buses and suburban CP trains, and
• Receive special offers in restaurants, shops, other venues, and more.

Purchase the Porto.Card online in advance for the easiest Porto airport to city center metro ride.

Eco Travel Tip

For flights only 2 to 3 hours in duration to and from Porto, take the train or bus instead. It could also save time and money, and the scenery is much prettier.

When hiring a rideshare, choose the  Bolt Green  or  Uber Green  options, or use  Carpoolworld , to support the use of electric cars and carpooling for cleaner transportation in Portugal.

Eco-Travel Tips & Ideas

• 25 Must-Have & Eco-Friendly Solo Beach Trip Essentials
• 10 Amazing Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Swimwear Brands
• 15 Eco Long-haul Flight Essentials for Solo Travel
• Top 10 Eco-Friendly Carry On Luggage
• 10 Best Eco-Friendly Personal Item Bags for Flying

Once there, it’s doubtful you’d need car transportation within Porto. The best way to get around Porto is by walking, in my humble opinion.

Porto is Walkable

Porto is walkable, but there are a lot of hills. It helps to be in shape to be walking around. I highly recommend wearing light-weight, eco-friendly walking shoes .

To learn while you walk, and meet other solo travelers, opt for a walking tour of Porto. There are several to choose from that make an ideal morning or afternoon activity.

Best Porto Walking Tours

Eco-friendly transportation.

Because of the hills, renting an e-bike or electric scooter may give you a boost of energy, if you’re not used to walking on inclines.

Want to ride around Porto, but not alone? Porto has bike, e-bike, e-scooter and segway tours, too. I always say group excursions are a great way to learn more about a city while meeting new people during solo travel. At any age.

Porto E-Bike Tours and More

Tuk Tuks also make getting around Porto easy. They even offer guided tours . Opt for an electric Tuk Tuk to be eco-friendly.

Porto Electric Tuk Tuk Tours

Unique porto transportation.

Porto has some unique, and eco-friendly, methods to get around the city that you may want to consider for a first-time Porto solo visit.

Ride Porto’s Funicular dos Guindais for a scenic and non-exerting way to climb the hills of the historic city center. Across the water, catch views of Porto and beyond from above on a Teleférico de Gaia cable car.

Like Lisbon, the Porto Tram can take you on a tour of the city. One way to cover alot of ground in Porto is to get a hop-on, hop-off bus, funicular and tram combo ticket .

Don’t forget river cruises. Take Douro River boat cruise for unforgettable scenery and soaking up the sun while resting your feet.

Best Porto River Cruises

Porto metro.

Of course, there is always the Porto metro, and bus services, if you want more options to explore Porto or get a little further outside of the city center. In fact, the Porto metro can take you to the beach. It’s only 30 minutes from the Trindade station to the coastal city of Matosinhos . Check the Porto Metro map and schedule .

Depending on how long you stay, you may want consider getting a Porto Card or just the  Andante Tour Card  for local transportation only.

Porto’s crime rate is considered low and considered a safe travel destination.

As always, use a safe, travel day-bag keep your belongings with you at all times, and be watchful of pickpockets in crowded, touristy areas or on public transportation.

I never felt unsafe in Porto as a solo female traveler, even when walking around at night. However, as a general precaution, I ensured my walking routes were well lit and populated. Whether you’re male or female, always avoid dark or secluded streets or alleys when walking alone.

Still, I walked a lot at night by myself in Porto and was fine. If you normally feel uncomfortable being out solo at night, you may want to consider going when the daylight hours are longest so you have more time to explore Porto, Portugal.

Solo Travel Tips

Have WhatsApp on your mobile device(s). Many smaller establishments and activities offices use this as a method of communication making it easier to make inquiries or booking and learn, or notify, of any scheduling changes.

Get the T-Mobile International Plan or something similar in price and features. I no longer work on WiFi only on international travel. I’ll use it when it’s there, but having access to roaming when needed for GPS and Google Maps is a game changer.

More Solo Tips & Ideas

• How to Plan Your First Solo Trip:  Step 1
• How To Save Money for Solo Travel
• Top 10 Tips on How to Do a Solo Beach Trip
• 10 Must Know Planning Tips for First-Time International Travel

Whether you’re staying a week or a weekend in Porto, or a first-time visitor, I would highly recommend staying within the Baixa (historic city center) and Ribeira districts, within the marked section of the map below.

You could also opt to stay in the Gaia district, on the south side of the Duoro River, but the northern side of the river is more convenient and would cut down on time between attractions, if you are on a short Porto stay.

Oporto Hotels and More

There are multiple accommodations in Porto Portugal across all budget types to choose from. Going in the off season, or booking well in advance, will get you the best Porto prices on any type of accommodation.

Consider booking at a property that either is eco-friendly or sustainably rated, or at least employs these methods into their business.

Porto Hotels

Hotels in Porto will range from budget to posh.

For location, price, amenities (including free-cancellation), eco-friendly and sustainable operations, and customer reviews and ratings, here are my Porto Solo Travel Guide recommendations (i.e., where I would stay):

• Pestana Porto – A Brasileira, City Center & Heritage Building
• Eurostars Porto Centro
• One Shot Aliados Goldsmith 12

Porto Hostels

Porto city center hostels are great budget accommodations in Porto for solo travel over 50. Using the same conditions above, and the ability to get a private room, here are my recommendations for best Porto hostel for solo travellers:

• Hostel Market
• Nice Way Porto Hostel
• Gallery Hostel
• Porto Lounge Hostel & Guesthouse
• Lost Inn Portal Hostel

I would recommend Nice Way Porto Hostel , which is where I stayed on my last Porto solo visit.  

Not posh or Sustainable rated, Nice Way Porto Hostel was equipped (in the hostel and in my private room) with everything I needed, in a fabulous location, and had a friendly and accommodating staff who were flexible on my breakfast times around my excursions and provided great suggestions on what to see and do in Porto.

In addition to Booking.com’s Porto’s Travel Sustainable properties , Green Globe and Green Key Global also have eco-friendly certified lodging options.

Reserve Porto Accommodations Early for the Best Price

What would a Porto Solo Travel Guide be without listing the best things to do in Porto?

Although hilly, to say the least, Porto’s top attractions are visible within a short period of time. Just don’t miss the Porto must see items.

This video will show you what an amazing first-time Porto solo trip you’ll have.

Ways to Do Some Porto MUST DOs

Like I said, you will not run out of fantastic things to do alone in Porto, or outside of Porto. Here are some of the best things to do in Porto, and where to find them, that you’ll want to consider adding to your single traveler itinerary.

Some may be free, but for those that aren’t, don’t forget the Porto.Card .

Porto Neighborhoods

The historic Porto city center is where most top attractions reside and consists mainly of two neighborhoods:  Baixa and Ribeira. Along with the Luis I Bridge and the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar across the river, the historic city center was granted UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1996.

Northern part the historic city center and one of the best places to stay in Porto for first-time or solo travel. It is on a higher elevation than the rest of the city center with its own set of top Porto attractions.

Ribeira (“riverside”) is south of Baixa and on a lower elevation that abuts the Douro River . This southern side of the historic city center is just as picturesque as Baixa, but is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Porto and considered the “heart” of the old town.  

Ribeira’s Cais da Ribeira (riverfront promenade) and steep streets are popular for shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife fun. It is also a popular area to stay in Porto.

Depending on how much time you have in Porto, you may also find yourself in the neighborhoods of Cedofeita Boavista (north of Baixa), Bonfirm (east of Baixa and Ribeira said to be where expats live), and Lodelo do Oro e Massarelos (west of the historic city center).

Vila Nova de Gaia

Commonly referred to as “Gaia”, this town is a municipality of the Porto District and south of Porto easily accessible by foot or public transportation across the Luis I Bridge.  

Gaia’s scenic river front hosts shops, restaurants serving fresh fish dishes in outdoor dining settings, and the skyrail that starts near the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar.  

Gaia is also home to the many port houses where the port grapes from the Duoro Valley have been received for centuries by way of the Duoro River to make port, Portugal’s signature drink.  

Add port tasting in port houses and cellars of Gaia to your Porto solo trip itinerary. Stay for the evening to watch the sunset cast beautiful light upon Ribeira’s colorful buildings.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

Indoor and outdoor Porto landmarks and points of interest are not only unique but can also be free things to do in Porto year-round.

• Dom Luís I Bridge – two-tiered bridge built in 1886 spans across the Douro River between the Ponte Dom Luis I of the Ribeira neighborhood of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
• Funicular dos Guindais
• Teleférico de Gaia – take a ride on a cable car
• Molhe e Farolim de Felgueiras – point and lighthouse where the river meets the Atlantic.
• Mercado Ferreira Borges – iron and glass landmark building built in the 1880’s that has restaurants and a bar.
• Fonte dos Leões (Fountain of the Lions)
• Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar – former 1550’s monastery

Churches and Cathedrals

• Iglesia de los Clérigos and Clérigos Tower – sweeping Porto views from this Baroque tower.
• Se Catedral (Porto Cathedral) – one of the city’s oldest monuments.
• Pillory of Porto – unique pillar in the Porto Cathedral plaza.
• Igreja de São Francisco (Church of Saint Francis) – most prominent Gothic monument in Porto.
• Capela das Alamas (Chapel of Souls) – blue-tiled facade chapel.
• Igreja do Carmo (Church of Our Lady of Carmo) – blue tiled facade Baroque church.
• Igreja de San Antonio de los Congregados (Church of Saint Anthony’s Congregation) – across from Bento Train Station.
• Igreja de Santo Ildefonso (Church of St Idelfonso) – Baroque 18th century church near Batalha Square.

History and Architecture

• Câmara Municipal do Porto – Town hall with clocktower offering more views of Porto.
• Palacio da Bolsa (Bolsa Palace) – 19th century Stock Exchange Palace.
• Livraria Lello & Irmão (Lello Bookstore) – known for its beautiful staircase and, mistakenly, as the inspiration for J.K. Rawlings.

• Paço Episcopal do Porto (Paco Episcolal) – former residence of Porto bishops in late Baroque and Rococo style.
• São Bento Station – railway terminal completed in 1916.
• Casa da Musica – concert hall designed by architect Rem Koolhaas.

• Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves – Museum of contemporary art.
• Soares dos Reis – museum founded in 1833 and located in the Carrancas Palace.
• Portuguese Centre of Photography – founded in 1997 and located in a former prison.
• FC Porto Museum – dedicated to the history of the Portuguese association football club FC Porto.

Parks and Gardens, Plazas and Promenades

• Avenida dos Aliados / Liberdade Square – important Porto avenue and square where Porto City Hall resides.
• Cais da Ribeira – Ribeira riverfront.
• Ribeira Square – historical square on the Cais da Ribeira.
• Jardins do Palácio de Cristal – Victorian gardens.
• Parque da Cidade do Porto – (Porto City Park) – largest urban park in Porto.
• Parque de Serralves – sprawling park located at the Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves.

Porto Restaurants, Nightlife and Shopping

Within the Porto city center and Gaia are multiple dining and shopping opportunities for single travel over 50.

If you’re on a budget, try shopping fresh produce and grab-and-go bites at a local market like the 2-story Mercado do Bolhão filled with different vendors.

Rua das Flores is a popular street with plenty of restaurants or shops you can sample. The Mercado Ferreira Borges also has some restaurants and a bar with outdoor patio to try.

For nightlife, stay within the Ribeira area.

Avoid using single-use plastics when dining, shopping and on food tours in Porto to reduce plastic waste and your carbon footprint by bringing your own reusable collapsible shopping bags , collapsible water bottle , recycled plastic water bottle carry sling , and bamboo travel utensils so you’re prepared to travel with the planet in mind.

I always travel with the above items. Light weight and taking up very little space in my carry-on bags , I love the convenience and peace of mind these inexpensive, eco-friendly products provide.

What Food is Porto Known For?

Porto solo travel would not be complete without sampling the local cuisine and drink.

Top things to try are a sanduíche de pernil , a slow roasted pork sandwich on a doughy roll, where the pork has been long simmering in juices, so the sandwich melts in your mouth.  Wash it down with a cold, Super Bock lager or stout beer. I had mine at the Casa Guides , a roof-top bar and restaurant frequented by locals.

There’s also the traditional Francesinha (“little French”), a ham and steak sandwich baked with melted cheese on top, akin to the croque monsieur. Some think this dish was originated by the French, but it was actually the Portuguese.

If you like fish, you’re in luck. Right on the water, Porto serves up many dishes made of fresh fish.  Try the popular Bacalhau , tasty little croquettes of dried and salted cod.

For sweets or dessert, you must try a Pastel de Nata , the little Portuguese custard tarts, with coffee. Yum!

If custard is not your thing, don’t worry. Porto has desserts galore to choose from.

Of course, Porto would not be complete without trying the local wine of the region, Vinho Verde, and port, Portugal’s signature drink.

Remember, Port is a fortified, dessert wine (some very high in alcohol content). Try it with cheese samplings or a meal, not with dessert. 

Port tasting is a must on your solo trip to Porto. Put a trip to the port houses cellars in Gaia on your list. I did a sampling at Porto Cruz on the waterfront. It was lovely.

If you want some other recommendations, here are 5 port cellars in Porto to try . 

If you have time or want to explore Porto’s spectacular surroundings on your Portugal solo travel, try a day trip from Porto.

Top of the list should be a day trip to Duoro Valley , another UNESCO World Heritage Site, with lunch and river cruise. I did a small group Douro Valley tour from Porto , which included scenic stops, an authentic Portuguese lunch, a stop at the famous Pinhão train station, river cruise, and 2 port tasting stops. It was great fun. I highly recommend this Douro Valley tour , or one similar if this one is booked.

Find the best Douro Valley tour that is right for you.

Best Douro Valley Day Trips from Porto

There are also other, top travel destinations within an hour or two from Porto. I did a self-guided day trip to Braga and loved it. Keep these destinations in mind when you plan your trip to Porto.

More Great Porto Day Trip Ideas

More wine travel ideas.

• Amazing 4 Days in Maui
• Best Flexible 4 Day Vienna 4 Day Itinerary
• Spectacular South of France in 3 Days
• Champagne Day Trip from Paris to Reims Without a Car
• Fabulous Florence 4 Day Itinerary
• 2 Days in Siena Italy Budget Itinerary (with Montalcino)

Here is a summary of the best booking sites I recommend you bookmark and use to successfully book your travel to Porto, Portugal. I use just about all of these for most travel locations. I even gave you my suggested Porto hostel as a fantastically located budget option.

These booking sites give you multiple travel options and awesome travel deals for all travel budgets. They will certainly help get a jump on your solo trip to Porto.

For the best travel deals , always book early .

• Cheap Flights to Porto
• Porto City Center Hotels
• Porto City Center Hostels
• My Suggested Porto Hostel
• Porto Train Tickets
• Porto Bus Tickets

Don’t forget to check out Portugal ecotourism ideas and use my Portugal Travel Guide complete your Porto travel planning and booking.

Now that you know you are familiar with Porto, would you like an itinerary idea to get you going? Use my 3 days in Porto itinerary perfect for first time solo travel to Porto. It takes out all of the guesswork of what to do in Porto in 3 days (or 4 or 5). You’ll love it.

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if my Porto Solo Travel Guide was helpful in planning your solo travel over 50. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

More Travel Guides You’ll Like

Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas on a Cruise

Best of Valencia 1 Day Itinerary Before Your Ibiza Ferry

2 Week Italy and Austria Itinerary Without a Car 2023

Fabulous 4 Days in Lisbon with Day Trips 2024

BEST One Day in San Francisco on Foot 2023

Top 7 Belize Solo Travel Tips

Best Verona on a Budget 2 Day Itinerary & Guide

3 Day Hiking in Southwest Virginia Itinerary

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.