Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Lohanna Reis

13 excellent and different guided tours around Portugal. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, and adventure.

Portugal is a country known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and captivating culture, which makes it a popular tourist destination. Located in the extreme southwest of Europe, the country offers a variety of attractions that attract millions of tourists every year.

One of the most famous sights in Portugal is the city of Lisbon, its capital. With its cobbled streets, charming neighborhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, and points of interest such as Castelo de São Jorge and Torre de Belém, Lisbon offers visitors a unique experience. In addition, the city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine and authentic fado music.

Another unmissable tourist destination is Porto, the second largest city in Portugal. The place is famous for its vineyards, producing the world-renowned port wine. Visitors can explore the wine cellars and participate in tastings to appreciate the region’s rich winemaking tradition. In addition, the city’s charming architecture, including the Dom Luís I Bridge and the Ribeira, make Porto a delightful place to visit.

 

 

For beach lovers, the Algarve is a breathtaking destination. With its golden cliffs, crystal clear waters and secluded coves, the Algarve is a sunbather’s paradise. Cities such as Faro, Lagos and Albufeira offer a wide variety of stunning beaches, as well as lively nightlife and excellent seafood cuisine.

In addition, Portugal is also rich in history and culture. Cities such as Évora, Coimbra and Sintra have UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including palaces, castles and ancient universities. These cities offer a fascinating insight into Portugal’s historical and cultural heritage.

Finally, we cannot fail to mention the island of Madeira. With its lush landscape, mild climate and famous Madeira wine, the island attracts tourists looking for a unique natural experience. Visitors can explore the levadas (irrigation paths) and enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and ocean.

 

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Portugal

Before delving into the central theme of this article, it’s relevant to highlight some of the most sought-after tourist sites in Portugal to facilitate the search for excursions, itineraries, and tours that match your interests.

As mentioned earlier, Portugal is a fascinating country. Below, we present a list of the top 10 points of interest and tourist cities that deserve to be visited in Portugal:

1. Lisbon: The capital of Portugal is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, charming neighborhoods like Alfama, and lively nightlife.
2. Évora: A historic and charming city with preserved medieval architecture. Highlights include Évora Cathedral and the Roman Temple of Diana.
3. Porto: Known for its wineries and the famous Port wine, Porto offers a unique blend of history, culture, and delicious cuisine.
4. Sintra: A magical place filled with stunning palaces and lush gardens. The Pena National Palace and the Castle of the Moors are must-visit stops.
5. Douro Valley: A stunning wine region famous for its breathtaking landscapes and Port wines produced on the slopes of the Douro River.
6. Óbidos: A medieval village surrounded by walls, with cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and a charming atmosphere.
7. Coimbra: Known for its ancient university, one of the oldest in the world, Coimbra offers an academic atmosphere and a beautiful view of the Mondego River.
8. Madeira: An archipelago known for its lush nature, beautiful mountain landscapes, tropical gardens, and stunning hiking trails.
9. Azores: A set of volcanic islands with breathtaking landscapes, colorful lakes, natural hot springs, and unique opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and diving.
10. Faro: Located in the Algarve region in southern Portugal, Faro is famous for its beautiful beaches like Faro Beach and the charming Old Town.

 

Is it better to travel independently or in group tours in Portugal?

Regardless of the option you choose to travel in Portugal—either independently or in a group tour—each has its positive and negative aspects.

Opting for independent travel, for example, offers greater flexibility to plan your own itinerary and choose activities according to your preferences. You’ll have the freedom to decide when and how to do activities, allowing you to explore Portugal at your own pace. Additionally, this option can be more economical, as you can control expenses based on your choices.

 

 

However, independent travel requires detailed planning, including research on accommodation, transportation, and activities. You need to be prepared to deal with potential challenges, such as language barriers, and take extra precautions regarding safety, especially in more remote areas.

On the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers the company of fellow travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Furthermore, traveling in a group can provide a sense of security, especially if you’re accompanied by an experienced guide who knows Portugal well.

However, this option might somewhat limit your freedom to explore Portugal independently, as you’ll be following a predetermined itinerary and schedule set by the group.

In summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Portugal depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, budget, and comfort level when making your decision.

Pros of traveling on a group tour	Pros of traveling on your own
Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests	Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities
Peaceful and fun group experience	Autonomy to follow your own schedule
More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide	Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule
Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities	Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper
Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone	Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip

 

 

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Portugal

Best Portugal Tours and Itineraries for Guided Small Group Adventures

   1. G Adventures – Discover Portugal (8 Days)

At the western edge of continental Europe, Portugal offers an irresistible draw for curious travellers. Embark on an exploration filled with scenic beauty, fascinating history and vibrant cultural traditions.

As you wander through ancient streets and winding rivers, you will find a variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where you can experience the multifaceted heritages of Portuguese royalty and the Romantics, the Knights Templar and Franciscan monks, as well as meet Port winemakers, farmers of cork and fado singers along the way.

 

 

   2. G Adventures – Highlights of Portugal (7 Days)

Walk through the winding streets of Lisbon, along the coast, where you can enjoy a pastel de nata while admiring the architecture illuminated by the sun.

Satisfy your thirst for history and culture at UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Monastery of Batalha, the University of Coimbra and the picturesque town of Sintra (optional).

End your visit in Porto, where the majestic Douro Valley invites you to relax with a glass of port wine in hand. Cheers! And welcome to Portugal.

 

 

   3. Intrepid – Portuguese Camino (10 Days)

Challenge yourself to a ten-day journey, departing from the charming city of Porto to the historic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, following the alternative and coastal Portuguese Way.

This route passes through coastal cities such as Baiona, Vigo and Redondela, joining the pilgrim’s route towards Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padrón and finally Santiago de Compostela.

You will embark on a journey through the countryside, mainly in northwest Spain, retracing the “Camino de Santiago”, crossing the Bay of Vigo, visiting ancient churches and picturesque villages. As one of the three most important Christian pilgrimages, you will take part in a powerful journey through idyllic landscapes and enchanting cities.

 

 

   4. Intrepid – Portugal Real Food Adventure (8 Days) 

Discover the flavors of Galicia and Portugal on this eight-day gastronomic adventure. Taste tender, paprika-flavoured octopus in Santiago de Compostela and learn how to prepare classic Galician seafood in picturesque Vigo by the sea.

Cross the border and discover how centuries of invasions and trade have given Portuguese cuisine a blend of Mediterranean, African and Middle Eastern influences. Taste Port wine among the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley and enjoy the hearty, fresh cuisine of an agriturismo in the Alentejo.

Complement your meals with cultural experiences, such as a visit to the Roman ruins and Gothic wonders of Évora, before relaxing with Lisbon locals and a glass of ginjinha (wild cherry liqueur). Cheers (health)!

 

 

 

Best tours and itineraries in Portugal for groups of young singles (18-35 years old)

 

   5. Contiki – Portugal City and Surf (9 Days) 

A new travel experience bathed in sunshine and full of good vibes, this one was designed to immerse you in the unique beauty and culture of Portugal. Departing from Lisbon to Porto, this trip visits iconic destinations, discovers Portuguese culture and absorbs the good vibes and free spirit of surf culture along Portugal’s beautiful blue coasts.

 

 

   6. Contiki – Best of Spain and Portugal (19 Days)

On this 19-day trip, we immerse ourselves in all things Iberian, from feasting on the terraces of Seville to tasting port wine in Porto, discovering Moorish architecture in Córdoba and Granada, exploring charming palaces in pastel colors in Sintra, enjoying fruits of the fresh sea views in Lisbon and UNESCO World Heritage Sites on virtually every corner.

We’ll visit all the iconic cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Granada, Lisbon and Porto – a labyrinth of culture, cuisine and colorful experiences awaits.

 

 

   7. Topdeck – Delve Deep: Spain & Portugal (10 Days)

Do you want to see all the main highlights that Spain and Portugal have to offer and more? From Lisbon to Barcelona, get lost in the cobbled streets of Portugal’s vibrant cities. Delight in the gastronomy in the best gastronomic regions of Spain.

Sail along the mighty river of Porto while tasting sweet wines. And discover the hidden historical gems of Sintra and Zaragoza. Forget superficiality: this is the real experience.

 

 

 

Best luxury and comfort Portugal tours and itineraries for small groups with guides

 

   8. Trafalgar – Best of Portugal (10 Days) 

This journey through the Best of Portugal reveals the proud history of a nation, warm-hearted inhabitants and a cuisine that warms the soul. Starting in Lisbon, you’ll travel north and south to explore the Templar fortress, watch race horses perform at an Alentejo farm, and visit the Algarve.

 

 

   9. Insight Vacations – Country Roads of Portugal (11 Days)

Awaken your senses during this 11-day guided tour of Portugal. In Lisbon, a Local Expert will show you the historic center and the most beautiful square in the city, Terreiro do Paço.

From the highest point of Monsaraz, you will be able to see the Spanish plains all the way to Lake Alqueva, and you will meet a local boat captain, who will delight you with stories of aquatic adventures during a cruise in its calm waters.

In Tomar, visit the Templar Castle and explore its impressive roundabout with a Local Expert. Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at the renowned Quinta da Roeda winery in the Douro Valley, using locally sourced ingredients, and sample a locally produced Port wine.

Tour Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto, a World Heritage city, and relax at your five-star hotel in the city’s picturesque historic district.

 

   10. Insight Vacations – Grand Spain & Portugal (18 Days) 

This 18-day guided tour adds a personal touch to your journey from Portugal to Spain. In Lisbon, walk along the avenues of Baixa and discover the most beautiful square in the city with an experienced Local Expert.

At the Prado Museum in Madrid, an art historian will guide you through halls of Spain’s most impressive Renaissance art. Sample Spain’s most delicious wines and learn about the Verdejo grape at an exclusive wine tasting in Rueda.

In Barcelona, tour the ancient Porta Romana with a Local Expert before stopping to visit the city’s most breathtaking basilica, the Sagrada Familia. Later, join a Gijón local for an intimate, freshly prepared lunch using locally sourced produce.

 

 

 

Best tours to Portugal by Tourradar (best site to search and compare tours in Portugal of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)

 

   11. Tourradar – Best of North Portugal (7 Days)

Start and end in Porto! With this in-depth cultural tour you will have a 7-day tour package that will pass through Porto and 6 other destinations in Portugal. The tour includes hotel accommodation, plus much more.

 

 

   12. Tourradar – Discovering The Best of Portugal (10 Days)

Start in Porto and end in Lisbon! On this tour you will have a 10-day tour package that will pass through Porto, in Portugal and 7 other destinations in the country. The tour includes hotel accommodation, plus meals, transportation, and more.

 

 

   13. Tourradar – Walking in Madeira (8 Days) 

Start and end in Funchal! On the tour you will have an 8-day tour package that will pass through Funchal and Paul do Mar. The tour includes hotel accommodation, plus an expert guide, meals, transportation, and more.

 

 

Concluding…

Portugal is a fascinating destination for those looking for cultural, historical and adventure experiences.

With a wide variety of tour and excursion options available, it is essential to carry out careful research before choosing the company that best suits your needs and expectations.

Check the reviews of other travelers and the details of the accommodations offered. This is essential to ensure a smooth and safe journey. However, no matter which company you choose, one thing is certain: visiting Portugal is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

So get ready for an unforgettable journey and embark on this adventure across the country!

 

Planning your next trip?

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 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.