Portugal is the perfect combination of white sandy beaches, architecturally beautiful cities, rugged coastlines, and a booming restaurant scene.
Portugal also happens to be one of the most affordable international destinations and incredibly safe, making it a great getaway for solo travelers.
Lisbon has become a hub for nomads and expats from all over the world, but there’s so much more to see than Portugal’s capital city. There’s the Algarve, Obidos, Braga, and Porto to name a few.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Portugal is in either the spring (March to June) or fall (September to mid-October) when there are fewer crowds, prices are lower, and the temperatures are warm. Fall is also a great time if you’re looking to experience some of Portugal’s famous wine.
The summer months are considered to be the high season in Portugal. Streets, beaches, and historical sites are often busy. Local transportation is also often sold out, and accommodation prices can increase to around 30-40%.
Come November, the rainy season begins, and a lot of resorts shut down for winter. Expect thinner crowds but shorter hours at many of the main sites. If you’re visiting Portugal for the holiday season, Lisbon is known for its Christmas markets and decorations.
What To Expect
Language: The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.
Currency: The official currency of Portugal is the Euro. 1 EUR is equivalent to 0.90 GBP.
Plugs: The plugs in Portugal are type F, the standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Safety: Portugal is one of the safest places to visit in Europe, being ranked as the 13th safest country in the world. Crime rates are low and are typically in isolated neighborhoods. The biggest issue is pickpocketing. Exercise caution with valuables, and you won’t run into any issues.
PORTO
The second largest city in Portugal and one of the most beautiful places in Western Europe, Porto is a dream destination. Surrounded by the beautiful beaches dotting the Costa Verde shoreline, the heart of Porto is a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and it’s a must-see for any history lover. But the city’s world-famous Port wine is what really put this place on the map ! If you are traveling to Portugal, you absolutely can’t miss the chance to explore Porto.
Getting Around Porto
Porto is one of the most walkable cities in Europe. Though its hills will give you a workout, they will also give you a perfect vantage point to take in the panoramic views of the city.
Metro: The Metro in Porto has six lines and 81 stations. The trains run from 6 AM to 1 AM and a single ticket costs EUR 1.20.
Bus: There are plenty of bus routes throughout Porto and some that travel to nearby destinations like Vila Nova de Gaia. The service runs every day from 6 AM to 1 AM and single tickets cost EUR 1.85.
Tram: The tram is an iconic way to explore Porto. It’s also an affordable option with tickets costing only EUR 3 for a single trip.
Taxi: Taxis in Porto aren’t that expensive when compared to other major European cities. An average journey in the city center will cost EUR 4-6. Most of the drivers do speak English, but it’s always a good idea to write down the address of your final destination to avoid any confusion. Uber is also available in the city and is perfect for travelers who prefer paying for transportation costs with their card instead of cash.
Where To Stay
Aparthotel Oporto Alves da Veiga
Aparthotel Oporto Alves da Veiga is a 19th-century mansion that’s been beautifully restored with an Art Deco style. You can expect all the charm of period mansions as well as all of the modern conveniences. The apartments are also only a short walk away from the Riberia do Douro river and the bustling Rua Santa Catarina with all its boutique shops.
The Yeatman
This luxe wine hotel and spa is a seriously impressive spot. It has an absolutely breathtaking view of the iconic cityscape as well as the Douro River.
Set amongst seven acres of hilly vineyards with outdoor and indoor infinity swimming pools, this well appointed two star property is the swankiest pick in the city. The on-site Dick’s Bar has live music on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9:30 pm until midnight.
Selina Porto
The Selina is perfect for digital nomads visiting Porto. You can stay, eat and work without leaving the property. The boutique hotel as stunning rooms and you can choose from private suites to communal rooms – there’s something for every type of budget !
Where To Eat
Antiqvvm
Antiqvvm is considered one of the top fine dining restaurants in Porto. It earned its Michelin star in 2016 and serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine using only premium seasonal produce. You can choose from multi-course tasting menus or a la carte.
Leitaria da Quinta do Paço
Leitaria da Quinta do Paço is where you can find some of the best eclairs in Porto. Stick to the classic dark chocolate or try something more adventurous like banana mousse or passion fruit! If you’re not a fan of eclairs, there’s plenty of other traditional Portuguese pastries you can try like pasteis de nata, the famous custard pie !
Café Guarany
If you’re a coffee addict like myself, you don’t want to miss Cafe Guarany. It’s one of the best cafes in Porto, and it’s definitely affordable ! The coffee is served in porcelain cups and its the perfect place to enjoy a cuppa before you head off to that next attraction.
What To Do
Clérigos Tower
Clérigos Tower is easily the most iconic site in Porto. Located beside the baroque Clérigos Church, this 250-foot tall tower offers the best view of the city so bring your camera– and your walking shoes ! It’s 200 steps up to the top !
Ponte de Dom Luis I
Ponte de Dom Luis I, the bridge linking Porto and Gaia. It is the perfect vantage to both sides of the metro and I’d recommend going during sunset so you can watch the city light up. If you take the cable car in Gaia, you can walk the upper level of the bridge back to Porto.
Crystal Palace Gardens
The 19th century Crystal Palace Gardens, or the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, is a picture perfect spot to spend a sunny day. Wander the paths and wind through the fountains and lush landscape as you take in the views of the Douro River.
Ribeira
Ribeira is one neighborhood where you can just wander around all day long. Its riverfront square, called Praça da Ribeira, is a tourist fave and it’s easy to see why. Nab some photo ops at the fountain then just explore without a plan.
Livraria Lello
Livaria Lello is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Plus, did you know that JK Rowling used to hang around here when she started writing her Harry Potter series ? There is a small fee to enter, but it’s totally worth it if you’re a book nerd.
Pellegrini Travel 
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