On a Portugal honeymoon, you’ll enjoy enchanting cities, beautiful sceneries, and endless experiences that mix romance with adventure and history. It’s on the southwest edge of Europe, and to its west and south is the Atlantic Ocean; to the east and north is Spain. Together with the said neighboring country, it occupies the Iberian Peninsula.
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Is Portugal a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Newlyweds are in for a one-of-a-kind vacation, as Portugal is one of Europe’s most underrated honeymoon destinations.
A Portuguese getaway will give you days and nights of both fun and relaxation. Its diverse offerings range from medieval castles, cobblestone streets, and over 500 miles of Atlantic beaches to lush vineyards and a thriving culinary world boasting Mediterranean, Atlantic, Asian, African, and Brazilian cuisines.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Portugal?
- Incredible sightseeing. While many cities boast unique architecture, Portugal also offers postcard-worthy views of mountain ranges and verdant rolling plains. If you book a sunset cruise in the Tagus River, Lisbon, you will see unforgettable views of the capital city.
- Explore the country’s rich past. Historical monuments and museums are a go-to for honeymooners in Portugal. Additionally, you can explore various palaces that don’t only boast years of history but also majestic architecture. Popular spots include the Pena Palace and Belém Tower, among others.
- Enjoy fun days on the beach. With miles and miles of Atlantic coastline, Portugal (Algarve in particular) takes pride in having some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. From Camilo Beach (near the seaside town of Lagos) to Amado Beach, you’ll find a place to swim, sunbathe, or surf.
- Romantic strolls and food galore. With quaint boutiques, upscale retail shops, Michelin restaurants, bars, and cafes with live Fado music, Portugal bursts with cosmopolitan life. When the sun goes down, you can enjoy an equally vibrant nightlife where you can dance and drink the night away.
- Taste world-class wine. The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Duoro Wine Region Valley is considered the oldest demarcated wine region on the planet, making it a must-include in every wine-loving couple’s Portgual honeymoon itinerary.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Portugal?
Generally, Portugal is a great year-round destination, but June through September offers the best days. August is the most popular month to visit the country. Though you will enjoy the pleasant weather, note that it’s crowded because most Europeans take this time to vacation.
Consider going there during the off-season from late January to mid-March though the weather will be chilly.
Is a Honeymoon in Portugal Expensive?
A Portugal honeymoon can be as luxurious or casual as you’d like. A mid-range week-long trip for two will cost around $2,000, including food, lodging, and some excursions.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Portugal
- Visit Portugal during the first quarter of the year, which is the off-season.
- Find cheap flights and try booking accommodations early on or at the last minute (many hotels offer last-minute deals).
- Refrain from booking every night in luxury accommodation. Opt to spend most nights in budget accommodations.
- Walk, get around by train or bus, and skip the taxis and car rentals.
- Spend less at restaurants, and pick up fresh foods at a nearby market.
- Take advantage of free attractions and craft your itinerary around wallet-friendly destinations.
- Consider investing in a Lisbon or Porto Card. It will give you discounted rates for transportation and museum entries.
7 Best Places to Visit In Portugal
Lisbon
Lisbon is Portugal’s capital and largest city, with options for various adventures. Explore shops and eateries, explore the old town of Alfama, or just vibe with Fado performers (Fado is the Portuguese’s take on blues music).
Apart from visiting Belem Tower and Tagus River, you can take a day trip to the fishing town of Cascais, where you can find stunning beaches and more. Visit the famous Pink Street for a night out on the town.
Where to stay: Baixa, Chiado, or Avenida da Liberdade
Weather: Summers in Lisbon are dry, warm, and mostly clear. Unlike other European cities, its winters remain relatively milder and wetter.
Algarve
This is Portugal’s southernmost region, and it’s where you can enjoy tranquil and slower-paced days. It boasts sandy shores where you can enjoy an incredible sunset or walk around. It has two major cities, Faro and Lagos.
You can access various water adventures here, such as kayaking and snorkeling. If you want to cruise through its dramatic caves while watching dolphins, this is the place to be.
Where to stay: Faro (city vibe) or Lagos (eco-tourism vibe)
Weather: Algarve has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.
Porto
Apart from relaxing cruises and exquisite wine-tasting tours, the second-largest city in the country is also famous for its thriving night scene. It’s known as the “Undefeated City” because invaders were never able to overthrow it, unlike other nearby cities.
It has breathtaking views of the Douro River and Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to the world-famous Port Wine. Visit Cálem, Offley, or Taylor’s Port Houses to taste and learn more about this sweet wine.
Where to stay: Centro-Baixa
Weather: Porto has an oceanic climate and is colder than Lisbon and Algarve. Though the city doesn’t experience snow, snow falls in other areas in the district.
Sintra
Sintra boasts views that are taken straight out of a fairytale book. From Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira to the Castle of the Moors, it has several medieval structures that will teach you a thing or two about Portugal’s glorious past.
Wander around the old center, visit its museums, and grab sweet pastries (including a travesseiro and queijada de Sintra) from any pastelaria. When you go to the coast, you will admire the beauty of Cabo da Rocath, the point where the city sinks into the Atlantic Ocean.
Where to stay: Town center
Weather: With a warm and temperate climate, you’ll enjoy a pleasant time in Sintra. It rains very little in the summer. Most precipitation occurs in the winter.
Óbidos
This is another medieval town in Portugal. Apart from palaces like the Obidos Palace, the walled city is known for its pristine coastline and fishing port.
Many cultural festivals happen here, including spring’s Chocolate Festival, summer’s Medieval Fair, autumn’s Literary Festival, and December’s Christmas Village. You also have several churches, parks, and museums to visit.
Where to stay: In or near Obidos Castle
Weather: Obidos has a coastal climate marked by mild and cool summers and wet, windy, and cold winters.
Alentejo Region
A place for wine tasting and wine cellar tours, this is the best place to call your home when you and your spouse are both oenophiles. When you’re not intoxicated, drive along its wild coast for unparalleled coastline views.
The region is known for world-class restaurants serving Portuguese cuisine in glorious and delectable forms. Évora, the most bustling city, has giant Roman ruins and the Chapel of Bones.
Where to stay: The capital, Évora
Weather: The region is considered one of the warmest in Portugal. Take note that winters there are cold and rainy.
Madeira Islands
Madeira, along with the Azores, are the two autonomous regions of Portugal. Madeira Islands, in particular, is a popular holiday destination because of its dramatic cliffs, refreshing vistas, and gorgeous beaches.
These islands are located in the middle of the Atlantic and boast some of the best volcanic landscapes in the world. Ride a cable car, go for panoramic drives, or taste their legendary wine.
Where to stay: Funchal or Porto da Cruz
Weather: Madeira experiences spring-like weather year-round.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Portugal?
The primary gateway to Portugal is Lisbon’s Portela Airport. However, if you’re staying in or near Porto, consider flying into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.
Traveling Within Portugal
Once you’re in mainland Portugal, you can take the bus or train. If you’re in certain areas, such as Porto and Lisbon, you may want to try riding on a tram for a unique experience. If you have an extra budget, consider renting a car (or a motorbike) and doing a self-drive. Though domestic flights are also available, they can be expensive.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Portugal?
You’ll find luxury hotels in many cities across Portugal. Six Senses Douro Valley, The Yeatman Hotel, and Quinta da Pacheca are among the popular choices for honeymooners. You can avail of honeymoon packages that include massages and excursions to nearby attractions.
If you’re looking for cheaper options, search for a boutique hotel or a pousada (hostel or inn).
4 Local Foods to Try in Portugal
- Bacalhau. This salted cod dish is the most famous in Portugal. You can find it in baked form, grilled, or shredded (together with fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, and onion).
- Porco preto. Iberian black pork can be cooked in various ways: as grilled meat, charcuterie, or pork sausages.
- Arroz de pato. This duck rice is a must-try if you want a unique meat dish. The tender duck meat is boiled, shredded, and added to Caroline rice, which is then baked and garnished with sausage.
- Pastel de nata. Craving something sweet? Pastel de nata or custard tart is a decadent treat that boasts an addicting contrast between the pastry shell and the soft egg custard filling.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Portugal Honeymoon?
Beyond having a romantic honeymoon, immersing in Portugal’s rich history and culture is interesting to do with your loved one. You can visit archeological sites and 18th-century palaces, learn to cook some Portuguese dishes, take language classes, or dive into the country’s deep affinity for wines.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Portugal
Pack lightweight, casual clothing and a few layering pieces if you visit Portugal in summer. For more upscale engagements and wine tastings, pack something fancier but don’t forget comfortable shoes.
As Portugal is a place for romantic strolls, walking shoes and sneakers are necessary. Also, bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and an insect repellant.
Is Portugal Safe to Visit?
Portugal is not only one of the best honeymoon destinations but also one of the safest. In 2022, it was ranked the sixth most peaceful country in the world. No violent crimes target tourists, but you should still be wary of petty crimes. Here are some safety practices to follow:
- Never carry more money than you need for certain itinerary activities for the day.
- Take extra care of your valuables when wandering around. Choose a shoulder bag with a sturdy strap or a money belt if possible.
- When carrying backpacks, wear them on your front rather than on your back.
- When checking maps or guidebooks, do so in a cafe or restaurant, not on the streets.
- Follow your tour guide closely on excursions.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Portugal?
US citizens can enter Portugal for up to 90 days without applying for a visa. Note that your passports must be valid for at least three months after your honeymoon departure date.
Portugal Honeymoon Travel Tips
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in Portugal.
- When paying in cash, make sure you have euro currency. $1 is about €0.92 as of writing. If you prefer to use your credit card, Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.
- Most Portuguese can communicate in English, especially those living in major cities.
- Tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated. Leave 10% or round the bill up.