Portugal Is Calling: 10 Reasons It’s the Smartest Trip You’ll Take

When it comes to European getaways, Portugal often sneaks under the radar—but it shouldn’t. This small Atlantic country offers a rare balance of affordability, sunshine, and variety that makes it easy to see why more travelers are putting it at the top of their list. You can sip Port wine in Porto, wander tiled streets in Lisbon, stretch out on golden beaches in the Algarve, and still have time to detour into rolling vineyards or fairytale palaces.

Best of all, Portugal is compact, safe, and simple to explore—whether you’re a first-time visitor to Europe or a seasoned traveler. If you’re looking for a destination that mixes charm with practicality, here are 10 smart reasons Portugal should be next on your list.

Good Value for Money
Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe—hotels, meals, and even wine are often cheaper than in Spain, France, or Italy.

Mild Climate Year-Round
With warm summers and relatively mild winters, Portugal is a great destination any month of the year. The Algarve region in southern Portugal averages over 300 days of sunshine annually.

Compact and Easy to Travel
You can drive from north to south in under six hours. That said, you’ll want to carve out many more hours for this trip because of the places in between that you’ll want to explore. Trains and buses are reliable, and rental cars are relatively inexpensive compared to those in much of Europe.

Excellent Air Connections
Direct flights from many U.S. and European cities to Lisbon, Porto, and Faro make getting there easy. Low-cost carriers also connect Portugal to most of Europe.

Diverse Destinations in One Country
There’s something for virtually everyone in Portugal, including city breaks (Lisbon, Porto), beach escapes (Algarve, Alentejo), wine country (Douro Valley), or island adventures (Madeira, Azores).

No Language Barrier
Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas, making navigation simple for travelers.

Safe and Traveler-Friendly
Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, boasting low crime rates and a reputation for being a welcoming destination for visitors.

World-Class Food and Wine
Fresh seafood, famous pastries like pastéis de nata, and the Douro Valley’s wines (including Port) make eating and drinking a highlight of any trip to Portugal.

Rich History and UNESCO Sites
Easy day trips from Lisbon or Porto include castles, monasteries, and medieval towns, offering a rich cultural experience without the need for lengthy journeys.

For example, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage town less than an hour outside Lisbon. It’s famous for its fairytale-like palaces and gardens, including Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira with its initiation well (a favorite of mine), and Monserrate Palace.

Great Infrastructure for Tourism
Hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnbs are abundant; public transportation is efficient; and walking-friendly cities make exploring easy. Locals are very welcoming and authentic. I’ve found them very proud of their country’s natural beauty and history.

Best Times to Visit Portugal

Spring (March–May)

• Pros:

  • Mild, sunny weather (60s–70s °F).

  • Blooming landscapes.

  • Fewer crowds and lower prices as compared to the summer months.

  • Great for sightseeing and hiking.

• Cons:

  • The Atlantic waters are cold for swimming.

  • Easter week’s religious events can bring sizeable crowds, particularly in Braga, Óbidos, and Fátima.

  • The tourism season (and crowds) has begun in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve resorts.

Summer (June–August)

• Pros:

  • Beach season is at its peak.

  • Extended daylight hours.

  • Lively festivals (like Lisbon’s Santo António in June).

  • The warm climate is ideal for the Algarve, surfing, and island trips.

• Cons:

  • It can get hot! Temperatures are in the 80s–90s°F inland, and slightly cooler on the coast. Keep in mind that coastal regions often lack shade, and the popular clear blue skies make the sun even more intense.

  • Expect the highest prices of the year.

  • Most crowded. Book early for accommodations.

Fall (September–October)

• Pros:

  • Warm weather lingers (often in the 70s°F).

  • The ocean is warmer than it was in the spring.

  • It’s grape harvest season in the Douro Valley.

  • There are fewer tourists after the summer months.

• Cons:

  • Some ferries, events, and businesses in beach towns are summer-only and wind down by late October.

Winter (November–February)

• Pros:

  • Winter is the cheapest time to visit. Flights and hotels offer the lowest prices of the year.

  • Winters are mild in Portugal, compared to northern Europe (50s–60s°F).

  • It’s a great time for city breaks in Lisbon and Porto.

• Cons:

  • Rainier months.

  • Days are shorter.

  • Some tourist spots in coastal areas may be closed.

  • Not ideal for beach vacations.

Best Overall Months to Visit

May–June and September-October hit the sweet spot: great weather, fewer crowds, and moderate prices.

From sunshine to savings, discover why this small country delivers a big travel experience.