This complete guide shares where to visit, things to do, and more to help you navigate solo travel in Portugal.
Portugal is one of those magical European destinations that has consistently been underestimated and overshadowed by its neighbor and other top European destinations.
But in recent years, it’s gotten the attention it deserves as an incredible place to visit and for digital nomads seeking a place to call home.
That’s because Portugal is safe, colorful, and sunny (hello, 300+ days of sunshine and lovely weather). It boasts vibrant cities and scenic nature that ranges from green vineyards and mountains to coastal cliffs and beaches.
And there’s no denying that locals are super friendly and welcoming, helping cement it as a great place for solo travel in Europe. I love Portugal so much that I’ve been there three times! And even have dreams of heading back one day to see more of it.
So, If you’re itching to see what makes Portugal so special, here’s everything you need to know about solo travel in Portugal.
»Read more: Must-Pack Essentials for European Travel
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Is Portugal Safe for Solo Female Travel?
This is a nuanced question that depends on many factors, but ultimately, Portugal is a safe destination for solo female travelers. In fact, Portugal ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe based on its low crime rates.
It’s also known to have an incredibly welcoming attitude toward the LGBTQ+ community and is generally more welcoming towards people of color than other European nations.
And I personally felt at ease as a woman exploring Portugal solo.
Why is Portugal a great place for solo travel?
Aside from its endless sunshine and vibrant city scapes, Portugal is a great place to visit solo for a few reasons.
Most notably, Portugal is a relatively affordable place to travel in Europe, ensuring solo travelers won’t break the bank.
Not to mention, it’s safe, features well-connected public transportation, including national trains, and has an excellent hostel culture.
How many days in Portugal?
If possible, I recommend at least one to two weeks in Portugal in order to have the time to see the best of this sunny destination.
With one week, you could easily see the “main” destinations like Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto. With two weeks you could branch off and see more of the further destinations and add the Douro Valley and/or the Algarve.
If you don’t have quite so much time, I recommend starting with Lisbon and Sintra or Porto and the Douro Valley over the span of 3-4 days!
When is the best time to visit Portugal?
Portugal is one of those rare European destinations that stays predominantly sunny no matter the time of year! Which to me means, anytime is the best time to visit Portugal.
However, summer in Portugal (July and August) is considered peak travel time. But be warned: it does get quite hot during the summer, which is great for beaches but not as nice for city explorations. The summer also sees more crowds and higher travel prices.
If you’re not interested in the beach and surfing, shoulder seasons like spring and fall see warm temperatures that are easier to bear while walking around. And for the best prices and lowest crowds, consider winter!
I visited Lisbon solo in the winter, and had an incredible time with beautifully sunny and cool but definitely not cold weather. Although I’m usually a hostel gal, visiting in winter meant cheap Lisbon hotels to which I couldn’t resist treating myself.
10 Best Places to Visit in Portugal for Solo Travelers
Admittedly, I have yet to visit every place on this list, but trust me when I say that I’ve fallen deeply in love with Portugal and hope one day to see more of it, especially the islands!
1. Lisbon
As Portugal’s largest city and the nation’s capital, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Lisbon. Perched on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, you can witness Lisbon’s pastel-colored buildings, cute tramways, and charming cobblestone streets.
While there, I highly recommend experiencing the local culture by seeing traditional Fado music and enjoying delicious Portuguese specialties like pastel de nata and port wine. For my fellow coffee lovers, Lisbon is also home to a killer brunch and cafe scene.
Best hostel in Lisbon: Yes! Lisbon Hostel
Best affordable hotel in Lisbon: My Story Hotel Tejo
»Read more: A Perfect Lisbon 3 Day Itinerary: Where to Stay, Visit, + More
2. Sintra
Sintra is known as one of the prettiest places to visit in Portugal. Nestled along the coast atop lush hills, Sintra features ornate palaces and castles of all architectural styles.
Its quaint little city center has many charming spots to eat, and I highly recommend trying a shot of ginja liqueur from an edible chocolate shot glass. Other things to do in Sintra include hiking and museum hopping.
Sintra is conveniently within day trip distance from Lisbon and is easy to reach via a 50 minute train that departs every 30-60 minutes. Once there, you can hike from place to place, take a private tuktuk, or ride the bus.
Cascais is a coastal getaway nearby that many combine with their Sintra day trip.
Best hostel in Sintra: Casa Azul Hostel
Best affordable hotel in Sintra: Chalet Saudade
»Read more: One Day in Sintra: How to Have a Perfect Sintra Day Trip From Lisbon
3. Porto
Porto was the very first place I visited in Portugal and it blew me away. Nestled along the Douro River, the sprawling city is beyond photogenic thanks to its medieval influences and famous Azulejos (ornate ceramic tiles).
From visiting port wine cellars to brunch hopping and, of course, the most beautiful bookshop that supposedly inspired Harry Potter (Livraria Lello), I immediately fell in love with Porto and all the countless things to do there.
Best hostel in Porto: The Passengers Hostel
Best affordable hotel in Porto: Zero Box Lodge Porto and Lost Inn Porto
»Read more: Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: Best Porto Hotels and Neighborhoods
4. The Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site over three hours from Porto. The region attracts travelers seeking to take in views of terraced vineyards that cascade down hillsides to the meandering Douro River.
Renowned as the birthplace of Port wine, no visit to the valley is complete without visiting a winery or two and hopping aboard a river cruise to witness a new vantage point of Portugal’s famed vineyards.
Many people visit the Douro Valley as a day trip from Porto, but those seeking more time to soak up the beauty of the vineyards can find charming beds, breakfasts, and guesthouses.
Best guesthouses in Douro Valley: Original Douro Hotel and The Vintage House Hotel
5. The Algarve + Faro or Lagos
The Algarve is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal, and shouldn’t be missed! One of the best places to stay in the Algarve is Faro, a destination that captivates travelers with its blend of historic charm and coastal beauty.
Some of the best things to do in Faro include strolling through the medieval Old Town surrounded by ancient walls, embarking on adventure activities like hiking and kayaking, and soaking up the sunshine on the beach. There’s so much to do and see that you could easily spend 2 days in Faro or more!
Solo travel in Faro is easy thanks to being the most significant capital city in Portugal’s Algarve region. Other great places to visit include Lagos and Albufeira. Many arrive to the Algarve from Lisbon via train and bus, which is fairly easy with a little advanced planning.
Best hostel in Faro: Casa d’Alagoa
Best affordable hotel in Faro: Hotel Sol Algarve
6. Aveiro
Aveiro is a pretty coastal destination nicknamed the “Venice of Portugal,” located about an hour south of Porto. Some of the best things there include spending the day at the beach, marveling at the Art Deco architecture, and cruising on the local canals. The town also has cute, colorful houses on the water.
About 15 minutes from Aveiro is Costa Nova, a charming seaside destination renowned for its cute striped houses along the water that have become an iconic instagrammable spot in Portugal.
Best hostel in Aveiro: Aveiro Rossio Hostel
Best affordable hotel in Aveiro: Welcome In
7. Sesimbra
Located about 45 minutes south of Lisbon, Sesimbra is another beach destination n with excellent resorts and a scenic coastline. It’s also a great place to enjoy freshly caught and prepared seafood at restaurants along the beach.
I visited Sesimbra on a day trip from Lisbon, and found it somewhat easy to get there via bus. If you have the time, I highly recommend visiting the Arrábida Natural Park, which boasts excellent hiking trails to secluded beaches and coastal lookouts like the Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo.
Sesimbra is another one of those day trip destinations in Portugal. However, it can be an excellent place for beach lovers to relax at a resort for longer if so desired.
Best beachside resort in Sesimbra: Sesimbra Hotel & Spa
8. Évora
Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Portugal with some remarkable Roman ruins. The town also oozes medieval wonder and a unique chapel made of human bones.
It’s a great place to visit for solo travelers who love history and want to learn more about Roman reach on the Iberian Peninsula.
Best hostel in Evora: Heaven Inn Évora Hostel
Best affordable hotel in Evora: Lavradores Boutique Guesthouse or Selina Evora
9. Portuguese islands: The Azores*
The Azores is an archipelago comprising 9 islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. Its volcanic craters, lush greenery, and azure lakes are responsible for its reputation as the “Hawaii of Europe”.
This remote Portuguese territory is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering whale watching, hiking, and quiet island living opportunities.
Travelers have their pick of a few famous islands, but São Miguel (primary airport) and Terceira Island (smaller airport) tend to be the most common jumping-off points.
Best hostel in The Azores: Out of the Blue
Best affordable hotel in The Azores: Hotel Alcides
10. Portuguese islands: Madeira*
Madeira is another Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, located just north of Spain’s Canary Islands. Madeira also boasts epic hiking and dramatic coastlines, plus locally grown wine.
Compared to the Azores, Madeira is a more popular destination amongst tourists and can be a little pricey. Many budget travelers begin their journey in the capital city of Funchal.
Best hostel in Madeira: Santa Maria Hostel
Best affordable hotel in Madeira: Quinta Da Penha De França or 29 Madeira Hostel
*Travel Note: The Azores and Madeira
The Portuguese islands are beautiful and as solo travel friendly as any other place in Portugal. Except for the small fact that they’re undeniably a bit more expensive than mainland destinations.
As islands, they require flights to get there and ferries between the islands. Also, a car rental is the best way to get around the islands to reach far-flung, nature-based landmarks.
10 Wonderful Things to Do in Portugal for Solo Travelers
1. Hike to see rocky shores and turquoise waters
Portugal offers spectacular coastal hiking trails that follow rugged cliffs that stand beautifully against blue ocean water.
The Rota Vicentina in the Alentejo and Algarve regions is a standout hike in Portugal. This trail meanders along dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages.
Another notable hike is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve, featuring breathtaking views of sea caves, rock formations, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.
Some other noteworthy trails include Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo in Sesimbra and the Praia de Magoito in Cascais Natural Park near Sintra.
2. Visit a Portuguese vineyard in the Douro Valley
Portugal boasts several charming wine growing regions. One of the most famous is the Douro Valley, producing the country’s port wine on stunning terraced vineyards along the Douro River.
Visiting the Douro Valley is best as a day trip from Porto.
The Alentejo region, with its vast landscapes, is another excellent choice, offering a diverse range of wines. Additionally, the Vinho Verde region in the northwest is known for its refreshing green wines.
3. Sample Port wine in a historic cellar
Wine lovers should also make time for a wine tasting in a Port wine cellar. The best place to visit a port wine cellar in Portugal is across Porto’s Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Several port wine cellars, known as “lodges” or “caves,” offer tastings in Porto. Some of the best include Graham’s Port Lodge, known for its rich history and panoramic views of Porto.
Additionally, Taylor’s Port Cellars, celebrated for its high-quality ports, offers guided tours and a picturesque terrace overlooking the Douro River. Last but not least, I visited Calem Cellars and enjoyed their insightful tour and photo-worthy brick cellars.
4. Go sea kayaking off the Algarve
One unique thing to do in Portugal is to go sea kayaking off of the southern shores of the Algarve. This thrilling activity is best for those with good physical endurance and strong swimmers as sea kayaking ain’t no joke!
Especially if there are high winds on the day you plan to kayak, in which case, I highly recommend rescheduling, as the waves can be difficult to maneuver.
Many tours offer sea kayaking in the Algarve that you can book directly or through Get Your Guide. I recommend booking in advance during peak summer months.
5. Catch a Fado show in Lisbon
Fado is a soulful genre of Portuguese music, often characterized by expressive vocals and mournful melodies, reflecting themes of longing, fate, and saudade.
You can experience authentic Fado performances in Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, where traditional Fado houses offer intimate settings for this traditional music.
Some of the best Fado lounges include Mesa de Frades, Clube de Fado, and Senhor Fado.
6. Embark on the famous Pico Ruivo hike in Madeira
The Pico Ruivo hike in Madeira offers a breathtaking adventure, leading hikers to the highest peak in the archipelago. With its stunning panoramic views of rugged landscapes and cloud-covered mountains, the trail provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for nature lovers.
You can book sunrise tours, day hiking tours, and day transfers to reach the trailhead. The hike isn’t for the faint of heart and requires a climb to 6,107ft (1862m), and is about 3.5 miles (5.6km) round trip.
7. Tram 28 Ride in Lisbon
Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28 route is a vintage yellow tram that winds through the city’s historic neighborhoods, offering a nostalgic and scenic journey.
The route is particularly popular because it passes by noteworthy landmarks and hilly districts such as Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. Riding Tram 28 provides a delightful way to explore Lisbon’s picturesque streets and historic architecture.
But be warned, the tram is small and attracts many visitors, so it can be crowded and lines are common. You’ll need to pay the driver €3 in cash as the vintage trams do not have automatic ticket machines.
You can also use the Lisboa Card to ride for free or a transportation card (which can be purchased at metro stations) to tap on for €1.50 per person.
8. Try your hand at some surfing on Portugal’s coast
With over 1,000 miles of ocean coastline, Portugal is a haven for surfing enthusiasts and those who wish to learn.
Some of the most notable places to surf in Portugal include:
- Ericeira, a World Surfing Reserve, offers consistent waves and a variety of surf breaks.
- Peniche is another popular destination, known for its powerful waves and hosting world-class competitions.
- The Algarve, notably Sagres and Lagos, provides excellent conditions for beginners and experienced surfers.
Get Your Guide is a great place to find surf lessons in Portugal. There are also many surf camps in Portugal where you can surf to your heart’s content with a dedicated instructor no matter your level.
9. Make a point to tour all of Porto’s beautiful Azulejos landmarks
Porto’s azulejos, traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles, adorn the city with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Seen on facades, churches, and even train stations, these decorative tiles showcase artistic craftsmanship and narrate historical and cultural stories, adding a distinctive charm to Porto’s architectural landscape.
Some of the most iconic places to see Porto’s azulejos include:
- Porto’s Sé Cathedral
- The Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas)
- São Bento Railway Station
- Igreja Carmo Church
- Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
10. Cruise the Algarve and see the famous caves
The caves of the Algarve, particularly along the coastline near places like Lagos and Albufeira, are renowned for their stunning natural formations and crystal-clear waters.
These coastal caves, carved by the relentless action of the Atlantic Ocean, offer visitors a mesmerizing experience through boat tours, allowing exploration of the intricate rock structures and hidden grottoes.
5 Portugal Travel Tips for Solo Travelers
Solo travel in Portugal is similar to solo travel anywhere or in general. But here are some helpful things to keep in mind.
1. How to get around Portugal
Portugal is well connected via public transportation that includes national buses and trains. You can check for route options, schedules, and tickets online or at the stations.
In most big cities, you’ll also find local transportation like city buses, trains, metro, and trams. It’s usually best to have exact change in cash to pay for the city buses and trams in Lisbon and Porto. However, some newer trams have ticket machines on board.
In Porto and Lisbon, you can also purchase city transportation passes that allow unlimited travel on approved transport for 24 hours, or longer.
2. How to meet people in Portugal
When I travel solo, I almost always meet fellow travelers along the way. Whether we grab a meal, enjoy a chat, or even join up to travel for a couple of days, meeting others is one of the things I love so much about solo travel!
Here are some ways to meet people:
- Stay at hostels
- Go on organized tours
- Take a local class like cooking, yoga, etc
- Meet people via travel Facebook groups
- Be opened minded and friendly out and about
I’ve met new people to chat with while walking around a new place multiple times, including Sintra!
Another woman traveling solo asked if I could take her photo. I asked for mine, and we ended up exploring Peña Palace and having lunch together!
3. Portugal has some of the best rated hostels in the world
Not everyone is a fan of hostels, and that’s totally understandable. But what if I told you that Portugal has some of the best rated hostels among travelers?
That, combined with the social benefits, cost-saving rates, and Portuguese hostels, could be an excellent option for you! Many hostels offer private rooms too, where you can enjoy the best of the social atmosphere of hostels and quiet privacy of a standard hotel room.
4. Many locals are friendly and speak English
When traveling solo, you’re entirely on your own for navigating, dining, etc, which can be intimidating, especially alone and with a language barrier.
But in Portugal, I found many people I interacted with to be super friendly, hospitable, and kind. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or engage with the locals!
5. Pickpockets aren’t uncommon in the big cities
Pickpockets can be a problem in big cities, so it’s a good idea to avoid leaving your wallet and phone in your pockets.
But don’t worry too much! It’s not as big of an issue as in other European capitals like Paris and Rome; it’s just good to be aware.