Portugal Travel Guide | Romantic Getaway

Q: What is the best way to get around Lisbon?

Lisbon's hills and narrow streets are best navigated by public transport. The metro, trams (especially tram 28), and buses are efficient and affordable. For short distances, walking is enjoyable, and taxis or ride-hailing apps are widely available for convenience.

Q: How can I avoid tourist traps when eating out?

Look for restaurants frequented by locals, often with simpler decor. Avoid places with photos of food and multilingual menus. Try daily lunch specials (prato do dia) for authentic meals at reasonable prices, and always ask if bread, cheese, or starters brought to your table are complimentary.

Q: Are there cultural customs I should know about tipping?

Tipping in Portugal isn’t mandatory, but is appreciated. In restaurants, locals usually round up or leave 5-10% if service is good. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is common. At cafés, small change is enough. There's no pressure, so tip only if you’re happy with the service.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Portugal?

Early spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal for visiting Portugal. The weather is pleasant, cities are less crowded, and prices for accommodation are lower. Summer is great for beaches, but coastal areas can be busy and hot, especially in August.

Q: How can I travel between cities affordably?

Portugal is well connected by trains and buses. The national rail service (Comboios de Portugal) offers comfortable and scenic routes between major cities. Booking advance tickets online can save money. Intercity buses are also reliable and may be more economical for certain routes.

Introduction

Nestled on Europe’s Iberian Peninsula, Portugal exudes old-world charm with its cobbled streets, historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, and dramatic Atlantic coastline. In mid-January, expect mild weather, with temperatures from 10–16°C, perfect for cozy walks and exploring without crowds.

Portugal’s culture blends Moorish, Roman, and seafaring influences, seen in its beautiful azulejo tiles, soulful Fado music, and delicious cuisine. For romance on a budget, wander hand-in-hand through Alfama’s winding alleys, sip local wine in Porto’s riverside bars, or watch sunsets over the cliffs of the Algarve. Portugal offers just the right mix of history, warmth, and intimacy for an unforgettable getaway.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleRomantic getaway

Dates17-25 January 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, apartment or house, resort, villa

Interests and Activities:

outdoor adventuresarts and culturefestivals and eventssightseeing and tours

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Key Facts

Location

Southern Europe, Iberian Peninsula

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

10,440,000

Language

Portuguese, Mirandese (regional)

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Types C & F

Time zone

UTCWET/WEST (UTC+0)

Country code

+351

Internet access

Widespread, fast, affordable broadband & 4G/5G

Climate

Mediterranean, mild winters, hot summers

See More Portugal Facts

Language:

Portuguese

hello
olá (oh-lah)
goodbye
adeus (ah-deh-oos)
yes
sim (seem)
no
não (nowng)
how much
quanto custa? (kwan-too koos-tah)
please
por favor (pohr fah-vor)
thank you
obrigado (oh-bree-gah-doo)
excuse me
com licença (kohng lee-sen-sah)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Portugal is easiest by air, with Lisbon, Porto, and Faro airports welcoming international flights from across Europe, North America, and beyond. For a romantic getaway on an average budget, look for direct or one-stop flights; booking early often ensures better deals. Train routes connect Spain and Portugal—try the scenic night train from Madrid to Lisbon for a unique experience.

Buses also link major Spanish and Portuguese cities, offering comfort at affordable prices. Ferries aren’t common for mainland arrivals, but cruises occasionally dock in Lisbon and Porto. In January, travel is generally reliable, though weather delays can affect flights and trains, so allow extra time in your schedule. Portugal’s mild winter climate makes it a lovely destination for couples.

Weather

Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal regions like Lisbon and Porto tend to have moderate temperatures year-round, while inland areas experience more temperature variation. Sunshine is plentiful, making Portugal ideal for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and tours.

From January 17 to January 25, expect cool, rainy conditions, especially in the north and central regions. Daytime temperatures usually range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). While severe weather is rare, occasional storms with gusty winds and heavier rain can occur. You’ll still find plenty to enjoy in Portugal’s arts, culture, and winter festivals during this time.

Food & Drink

Portuguese cuisine is rich in seafood, with signature dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and octopus rice. Don’t miss pastel de nata (custard tart) for dessert, paired with a glass of port or vinho verde wine. Expect cozy, candlelit settings perfect for a romantic getaway.

For memorable meals, try Lisbon’s Time Out Market or Restaurante Tágide for stunning views, and Porto’s cozy Taberna dos Mercadores. In wine country, Quinta do Seixo offers wine tastings with scenic Douro River vistas. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.

Vegetarian options are increasing, especially in cities, but traditional menus focus on meat and fish. Book ahead for special occasions, and enjoy the blend of old-world ambiance, great flavors, and welcoming hospitality.

Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau à Brás is a popular Portuguese dish made with salted cod, eggs, onions, and potatoes, all finely...

Francesinha

Francesinha is a mouthwatering Portuguese sandwich that is a true comfort food delight. It features layers of bread,...

Pastel de Nata

Pastel de Nata, also known as Portuguese custard tart, is a delectable pastry filled with creamy custard, delicately...

Caldo Verde

Caldo Verde is a traditional Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, and savory slices of Portuguese chouriço sausage....

Pão com Chouriço

Pão com Chouriço is a delightful Portuguese snack that features crusty bread filled with thinly sliced, flavorful chouriço...

Accommodation

For a romantic getaway in Portugal on an average budget, consider charming hotels or apartments in Lisbon’s Alfama or Baixa neighborhoods, or Porto’s Ribeira area. Book through Hotels.com for a wide range of options, including romantic boutique hotels and city-view apartments. Look for properties with balconies or terraces for added ambiance.

On the Algarve coast, seaside resorts and villas in Lagos and Albufeira are great for couples seeking relaxation and ocean views. In January, accommodations are more affordable and generally available, but booking early ensures the best locations and amenities. Always check for seasonal promotions and flexible cancellation policies when reserving through Hotels.com.

Itinerary

Day 1

January 18 · Sunday

Begin your romantic adventure with a warm welcome in Lisbon, soaking in the city’s atmosphere while acquainting yourselves with Portuguese hospitality and vibrant urban life.

Stroll through Alfama’s Romantic Lanes

Wander hand in hand through Alfama, Lisbon’s most picturesque and historic neighborhood. Lose yourselves in its winding alleys, colorful houses, and cozy viewpoints offering magical city and river vistas. Perfect for couples wanting an authentic slice of local life.

Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal

Couples’ Tram 28 Scenic Ride

Hop aboard the iconic yellow Tram 28 for a charming tour through Lisbon’s hills. This scenic route passes historic districts, beautiful vistas, and local life, making for unforgettable first-day memories together.

Martim Moniz tram stop, Lisbon, Portugal

Sunset at Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Watch the sun set over the Tagus River at this enchanting viewpoint, framed by bougainvillea and azulejos. Arrive early to secure a spot and soak up the romantic ambiance with panoramic views of Lisbon’s rooftops.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Largo Santa Luzia, Lisbon, Portugal

7 Hills and 14 Viewpoints - Lisbon E-Bike Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

In this tour, with the help of electric bicycles, we’ll visit the 7 Lisbon Hills and 14 Viewpoints. In this tour we’ll visit some of the most famous Lisbon Viewpoints, such as Graça, Santa Luzia, Srª do Monte but we’ll visit many others, less famous. If seeing Lisbon from above is a wonderful thing, getting inside historic districts, such as Alfama, Mouraria, Graça, with a very popular local guide, is an unforgettable experience. Within these neighborhoods, we’ll make several stops to get to know the places, learn about small stories and visit traditional shops. We’ll also take a break for tasting the traditional Portuguese ginjinha. During our route we’ll observe the traditional Lisbon houses, large and small, painted with different colors, or decorated with great drawings made on tiles will also be present throughout this bike tour. We’ll also pass by many of the most important monuments in the city.

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Travel Guide for Portugal

Introduction

Key Facts

Language

Map

Logistics

Weather

Food & Drink

Accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1

Stroll through Alfama’s Romantic Lanes

Couples’ Tram 28 Scenic Ride

Sunset at Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Attractions

FAQ

Travel Essentials

Related Guides

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Travel Guide for
Portugal