Golden sands, toasty temps, and pastel de natas for brekkie—Portugal holidays in 2025 / 2026 are hotter than ever. Whether you’re after sun-drenched beach days, buzzing city breaks or a chilled family escape.

Good to know

🤩 Fun fact: Portugal is home to the world’s oldest bookstore, Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon, which has been open since 1732!

🏖️ Best beach: We think Praia da Marinha in the Algarve is a must-see. Golden cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and perfect for snorkeling—what’s not to love?

🍺 Price of a pint: A beer will set you back around €2 to €3 depending on where you are—cheers to that!

Destination highlights

• Home to the Algarve – a firm fave with families and friend groups

• Gorg coastline for all your beachin' (and surfin') needs

• Wine and dine - home to world-class wines like Port and some of Europe’s most mouthwatering dishes

• The OG of Piri Piri chicken

If you're ALL IN on Portugal check our all-inclusive Portugal holidays, or all-inclusive Algarve trips. If you simply can't wait to feel the sand between your toes (we feel ya) then check our last minute Portugal holidays. Finally, if you want fresh Nata but your bank balance is close to nada then check our Cheap Portugal holidays.

Best Time to go on your Portugal holidays

Sunshine? Sorted. Festivals? You bet. Off-peak bargains? Yep, got those too. Portugal’s a corker of a holiday spot all year round, but if you’re wondering when to book those flights, here’s the lowdown on the best times to visit...

☀️ Summer Sizzlers (June to August)

If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched beach days, rooftop cocktails, and festivals that go off, then summer’s your jam. Expect:

• Hot and sunny weather (up to 35°C in the south)

• Buzzy beach vibes, especially in the Algarve and Lisbon coast

• Peak season prices, so book early to bag a deal

Best for: Party people on group holidays, sun worshippers, and those who want all the buzz.

🌸 Spring Fling (March to May)

Springtime in Portugal is like the starter before the main summer course—still delish, just a bit lighter. You’ll get:

• Mild temps (18–25°C) and fewer crowds

• Cheaper accommodation

• Blooming gorgeous scenery, especially in Madeira and the Douro Valley

Best for: Sightseeing, romantic breaks, and wallet-friendly wanderings.

🍂 Autumn Escape (September to October)

Still warm, still fab, and way less hectic. Autumn holidays in Portugal mean:

• Warm seas (yep, they’ve had all summer to heat up)

• Harvest festivals and wine tours galore

• Golden sunsets and mellow weather

Best for: Couples holidays, foodies, and those craving a sunny break after summer ends.

❄️ Winter Warmers (November to February)

Portugal might not be roasting in winter, but it still beats the UK chill! Here’s the deal:

• Mild coastal weather (10–18°C in Lisbon and the Algarve)

• Christmas markets in Porto and Lisbon

Best for: City breaks, cosy escapes, and beating the winter blues.

Where is the best area to stay on your holidays in Portugal?

Portugal is brimming with incredible destinations, whether you’re after a fun family trip, a getaway with friends, or a romantic escape. From buzzing cities to tranquil beaches, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re seeking luxury or something more budget-friendly. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to suit your travel style.

• Family holidays – for top-notch family fun, the Algarve is hard to beat. Think golden sands, waterparks, dolphin-watching, and sunshine for days. Towns like Vilamoura and Lagos are packed with activities for kids, chilled spots for grown-ups, and plenty of beachy adventures to tick off on your holidays in Portugal.

• Squad goals – heading on a group holiday? Albufeira in the Algarve is the place to be. It’s got a buzzing nightlife scene (hello, The Strip), daytime beach clubs, and water sports galore. Basically, it’s your go-to for unforgettable holidays to Portugal with your besties.

• Coupling up – Loved-up and ready to roam? Lisbon serves up city charm with a side of romance. Wander the cobbled lanes of Alfama, watch the sunset from a hilltop viewpoint, and toast your trip with wine in Bairro Alto. Perfect for swoony Portugal holidays for two.

Getting around on your Portugal holidays

Portugal boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation system that makes getting around the country easy, whether you’re staying in a bustling city or exploring the more remote regions. From modern metros to scenic train routes, here’s a breakdown of the key transport options:

• Ⓜ️Metro - big city explorer? You’re gonna love the metro. Lisbon and Porto both have snazzy, modern systems that’ll whizz you around town in no time. Lisbon’s got four easy-to-navigate colour-coded lines covering all the main spots—great for ticking off those must-see sights without busting your flip-flops. Porto’s setup is slightly smaller but still gets you from A to beach in a breeze. Plus, tickets are wallet-friendly and you can grab day passes for unlimited travel (no more digging for coins at every stop).

• 🚌Buses (Autocarros) - Portugal’s bus game is strong. Whether you’re city-bound or going coastal, buses are a brilliant option. In Lisbon and Porto, they’ll take you to all the bits the metro doesn’t reach (think hilltop hideaways and cute backstreet cafes). Heading further afield? Regional buses connect smaller towns and secret gems across the Algarve, Alentejo and beyond. And for the big journeys—Lisbon to Faro, Porto to Albufeira—long-distance buses like Rede Expressos are comfy, cheap, and air-conned to the max.

• 🚆Trains (Comboios) - fancy mixing travel with a bit of sightseeing? Portugal’s trains are the way to go. Run by Comboios de Portugal (CP), they’ll carry you across the country while you sit back and soak up those lush views. For speedy trips, the Alfa Pendular service connects major cities like Lisbon, Porto and Faro in record time. If you’re more about the journey than the destination, hop on a regional train along the Douro Valley or the Algarve coast—trust us, it’s Instagram gold.

💬 Talk the Talk 💬

Brush up on these key Portuguese phrases to impress the locals and navigate your way around:

• Olá! – Hello!

• Obrigado/Obrigada – Thank you! (Male/Female)

• Por favor – Please

• Desculpe – Excuse me/Sorry

• Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?

• Como está? – How are you?

• Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?

• Onde fica a praia? – Where is the beach?

• Uma cerveja, por favor – A beer, please

• Um copo de vinho, por favor – A glass of wine, please

• Onde está o banheiro? – Where is the bathroom?

• A conta, por favor – The bill, please

• Bom dia – Good morning

• Boa noite – Good night

Now you're ready to falar (talk) like a local!

Portugal holidays 2025 / 2026 - Best beaches

Looking for cheap holidays to Portugal? You're in luck, 'cause we've got 'em, but also - wanna know one of the best things to do in Portugal? Hit the beach obviously (rude not to when it looks that great), so we've done you a solid by picking out some of the best places to flop down a towel...

• Praia da Marinha - this iconic beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and natural rock formations. It’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and you’ll find plenty of picturesque spots for that perfect Instagram shot!

• Praia de Benagil - known for its incredible sea cave, Benagil Beach is a must-visit. You can rent a kayak or take a boat tour to explore the famous cave, which has a natural skylight that makes for a breathtaking photo op.

• Praia do Guincho - this one's for the surfers and adventure-seekers, thanks to its blustery location with big Atlantic waves for your windsurfing, kitesurfing or bodyboarding needs

• Praia de Carcavelos - just a short train ride from Lisbon, Carcavelos is a bustling beach with golden sands and great waves for surfing. It’s ideal for sunbathing, beach sports, and grabbing a bite at the many nearby cafes. Perfect day trip from the city.

• Praia da Nazaré - famous for its giant waves that attract surfers from around the world, Praia da Nazaré is a haven for thrill-seekers. Even if you’re not surfing, the sheer spectacle of the waves is awe-inspiring.

• Praia dos Galapinhos - hikers, this is your spot. It's a beach in a park (Arrábida Natural Park if you want specifics), and it can only be reached on foot or by boat - super exclusive. Strap on your boots for a good ol' wander and then cool off in the water - perfecto.

• Praia de Dona Ana - kinda sounds like something out of Mamma Mia (wrong country), but this is actually a picture-perfect cove (so get your phone at the ready), with shallow paddling waters for the kiddos and clear waters for all you snorkellers.

• Praia do Baleal - if you like your beach like you like your Saturday nights (lively), then this is the place for you. It's got the fun vibes that make the transition from chilled beach days to late-night beach parties totally seamless.

• Praia da Ursa - nestled near Cabo da Roca, Praia da Ursa is a secluded gem known for its wild beauty. Accessible via a steep hike, this unspoiled beach offers dramatic cliffs and striking rock formations.

What are the top hotels in Portugal?

Family holidays to the Algarve, last-minute holidays to Lisbon and couples’ All Inclusive getaways to Cascais – whatever you’ve got your beady eye on, there's a Portugal hotel for you. Here are a few of our faves:

• Auramar Beach Resort - perched right along the beachfront (just how we like it), this place is for the beach bums and sun-seekers, with multiple pools to dunk into and a super-fun 'dancing bar'

• Muthu Clube Praia da Oura - another beachfront beaut with TONS of food options (from big ol' buffets to Mexican classics), a sky bar with mega views, and a giant inflatable obstacle course for the kiddos

• Jupiter Albufeira Hotel - Family & Fun - designed with families in mind, and thanks to its on-site waterpark, jam-packed activity schedule and multiple swimming pools, boredom's definitely banned here

• Monica Isabel Beach Club - cosy, self-catered apartments with beachfront views, a choice of pools and activities for days

• Oura Senses (16+) - if you like a couples holiday that's adults-only, this 16+ hotel is the one for you. It's got a pool, a Jacuzzi and an on-site bar. What more could you want?!

• Tivoli Alvor Algarve Resort - talk about a luxury holiday for the whole fam, this hotel's got six swimming pools, a cinema room for movie nights and an adults-only spa for some much needed "me" time.

Your Portugal Holidays 2025 / 2026 Travel Guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Portugal for Families

If you're looking to get the whole fam on a day trip during your holidays to Portugal, then you'll deffo wanna keep this gorge castle on your radar. Castles are cool of course, and the Quinta da Regaleira is no different, but the shining jewel here is the insane grounds that are giving pure Secret Garden vibes (how's that for a throwback). When you're here you can explore secret tunnels, hidden passageways and waterfalls and even a stunning spiral staircase through the middle of a well. It's a cracking day out if you find yourself in Sintra and one that you and the kids will remember for sure.

If you're looking for a beach day with a unique twist, then you're gonna wanna high tail it all the way to Costa Nova, a picturesque, colourful, coastal town with stunning striped houses and an incred family-friendly beach. It's a popular spot during the Summer holidays so the atmosphere is always a buzz and the photo ops scream 'I'm on my jollies.' What more could you ask for from your family holidays to Portugal?

🕺 Things to do in Portugal for Party Goers

Chasing your next festival or dying to dance til the sun comes up? Then Portugal has got you covered and then some. The NOS Alive festival in Lisbon runs in July and attracts huge crowds of people all itching to bounce and vibe to all the rock, indie, electronic and pop performances. To put it into perspective, Dua Lipa was a headliner there this year, and the crowd were indeed, Levitating. It's a surefire way to satiate those party cravings on your holidays to Portugal and a guaranteed belter of a time, especially if you're vacaying with your besties.

All great party destinations have a banging strip to rival all other strips, and the Monte Choro Strip in Portugal certainly lives up to hype. We're talking bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants running from Monte Choro itself all the way to Albufeira - yeah, it's a biggie. It's one of the hot spots for lad's and gal's holidays - and Stag and Hen do's are on the rise here too, so bare that in mind if you like a party but aren't about things going from nought to feral in .5 seconds. But if that's exactly what you're after, then make sure you hit up this spot from morning til night - grab yourself a full English in the morning then let the party commence.

🏛️ Things to do in Portugal for Culture Vultures

Calling all history buffs, if you love a good day trip then you're gonna wanna keep Pena Palace on the brain. Also known as the jewel of Sintra, this place is the bee's knees, an eclectic blend of vibrant colours on the outside and rich, history bubbling from every corner on the inside. It's giving major Disney vibes too so it really does attract everyone and their dog, so be prepared for a busy day, or try and time your visit to get your culture fix with a bit of tranquillity, we recommend an early morning visit, or making the trip a couple hours before closing.

Portugal is home to some truly remarkable pieces of art, but one of the more unique features of this entire country is the breathtaking Azulejo tiles. One part art installation that spans across the country, another part cultural phenomenon that depicts all the history, the trials and tribulations, the events, and the religious stories of Portugal. You won't have to travel far to catch a glimpse of these stunning marvels, but if you're dying to see as many of these tiles as possible on your Portugal holidays, then make sure you head to the Porto Cathedral or throw caution to the wind and head to the National Museum of the Azulejo in Lisbon.

🌳 Things to do in Portugal for Nature Lovers

Might be worth packing your walking boots when you're jetting off on your Portugal holidays, especially if you love getting out in nature like we do. The Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres is an absolute feast for all you hikers out there who wanna feel the burn in your calves, the fresh air in your lungs and the sun on your skin. You'll be sauntering round riverside woodlands, strolling beside hidden waterfalls, skirting along craggy peaks, stepping through old stone villages lost to time... we've run out of 's' words, but just know, it's not one to miss.

If you're a sucker for a day out but you don't wanna sacrifice your nature lovin' roots to a waterpark or the like, then you should definitely get yourself booked on a boat trip to the Benagil Cave on your holidays to Portugal. This unique feat is only accessible via the water, be that on a boat trip, your own rented paddleboard or a rented kayak. This cave has a hole right in the ceiling letting all that natural light wash over you while you take in the view and dip your toes in the cool, refreshing water. It's a short trip, but one that will offer you a chance at lounging on an otherwise inaccessible beach and marvelling at the cave in all it's gorge, natural splendour.

Portugal on a Budget – Your Guide to Cheap Holidays in Portugal Without the Compromise

Think Portugal holidays have to cost a fortune? Think again. This sun-soaked slice of Europe is one of the best-value destinations going, and with a few savvy moves, you can stretch your euros further than a beach towel on the Algarve sand. For brilliant, budget-friendly, Portugeese breaks see our Cheap Portugal page or read on to learn how to do Portugal properly without breaking the bank...

💰 Money Matters

Cash vs Card - Most places take card, but smaller cafes, markets, and family-run restaurants often prefer cash. Grab euros from ATMs (Multibanco) rather than airport exchange desks for better rates, and avoid the "dynamic currency conversion" option when paying by card—always pay in euros to dodge sneaky fees.

Tipping - Good news: tipping isn't mandatory in Portugal! That said, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is always appreciated. No need to tip at cafes if you're just grabbing a coffee at the bar.

Free ATM Withdrawals - Look for Euronet ATMs or use your bank's partner networks to avoid fees. Many UK banks now offer fee-free withdrawals abroad, so check before you go.

🍽️ Eating on the Cheap (Without Missing Out)

Lunchtime Wins - The "prato do dia" (dish of the day) is often an absolute winner Many restaurants serve a 3-course lunch with drink included for €8-12. It's the same quality as dinner, just cheaper because...well, it's lunch. Splurge on lunch and have a modest dinner, better for your wallet and, apparently, for your digestive system.

Pastelarias Are Your Friend - These bakery-cafes serve up fresh pastéis de nata, sandwiches, and coffee for pocket change. A bica (espresso) and a pastel de nata will set you back about €2 total. Breakfast sorted.

Markets Over Restaurants - Hit up local markets like Lisbon's Mercado da Ribeira or any town's municipal market for fresh produce, cheeses, and cheap eats. Grab picnic supplies and head to the beach—free lunch with a view!

Avoid Tourist Traps - If the menu's in five languages and there's someone outside trying to lure you in, it's probably overpriced. Walk two streets back from the main square and you'll find where the locals eat—better food, half the price.

🏖️ Free & Cheap Activities

Beaches (Obviously) - Portugal's coastline is free, gorgeous, and goes on for miles. No entry fees, no sun lounger pressure—just you, the sand, and the Atlantic.

Miradouros (Viewpoints) - Lisbon and Porto are packed with stunning viewpoints that cost absolutely nothing. Catch a sunset from Miradouro de Santa Catarina or Miradouro da Senhora do Monte—Instagram gold, zero euros.

Free Museum Days - Many museums offer free entry on Sundays before 2pm or the first Sunday of the month. Check ahead and plan accordingly.

Street Art Tours - Forget paying for a tour—grab a street art map (loads online) and explore Lisbon's LX Factory or Porto's Miguel Bombarda district yourself.

Hiking & Nature - From the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca to the trails in Sintra or Arrábida Natural Park, Portugal's natural beauty is free to explore. Pack water, wear comfy shoes, and off you go.

🚌 Getting Around for Less

Walk Everywhere - Portuguese cities are super walkable, and you'll stumble upon hidden gems you'd miss on public transport. Plus, free.

Tram & Metro Day Passes - In Lisbon and Porto, grab a day pass (around €6-7) for unlimited metro, tram, and bus rides. Way cheaper than paying per journey.

Book Trains in Advance - If you're doing longer trips (Lisbon to Porto, Porto to the Algarve), book your train tickets online ahead of time for cheaper fares.

🏨 Accommodation Hacks

Stay Slightly Outside the Centre - Hotels just outside Lisbon's Baixa or Porto's Ribeira can be half the price, and you're still only a short metro ride from the action.

Midweek Stays - Weekend rates spike, especially in cities. Fly midweek and you'll save on flights and accommodation.

Self-Catering - Aparthotels or Airbnbs with kitchens mean you can cook a few meals and save a fortune. Pop to the local market, grab some bacalhau, wine, and fresh bread—sorted.

Portugal's one of those rare places where "cheap" doesn't mean "crap." With a bit of planning and some local know-how, you can have an absolutely bangin' holiday without the buyer's remorse. Now go forth and budget like a boss! 💪

Explore More of Portugal

Portugal's got so much to offer, and we've got dedicated pages to help you dig deeper into the best bits. Whether you're chasing sun-drenched beaches, buzzing city vibes, or hidden gems off the beaten track, there's a Portugal holiday with your name on it.

🏖️ Algarve – If you want the sunniest, beachiest part of Portugal, this is it. Golden cliffs, crystal-clear waters, waterparks, and some of the best seafood you'll ever taste. Perfect for families and anyone who lives for a tan.

🏙️ Lisbon – Portugal's capital is where history meets cool. Think hilltop viewpoints, colourful trams rattling through cobbled streets, epic nightlife, and pastel de nata on every corner. Ideal for city breakers, culture lovers, and anyone who wants a bit of everything.

🍷 Porto – All the charm, half the tourists (for now). This riverside city is famous for its port wine, stunning bridges, and those gorgeous azulejo tiles everywhere you look. Great for romantic getaways, foodies, and anyone who loves a good wine tour.

🌴 Madeira – The "floating garden" of Portugal. Lush, green, and seriously gorgeous, Madeira's all about dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and year-round spring weather. Perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and those after a peaceful escape.

🌋 Azores – Portugal's best-kept secret. Volcanic islands, hot springs, whale watching, and landscapes that look like another planet. For adventure seekers, nature nerds, and anyone who wants to say they've been somewhere truly unique.

Click through to explore what makes each destination special—and start planning your perfect Portugal escape!