From glamorous Cascais to laidback Ericeira, this article – written by someone who lives in Lisbon – is focused on great beach destinations near the capital. Lisbon’s coastline delivers a dozen different coastal moods – from boho Caparica to boujee Comporta – and these are the beach escapes locals actually head off to when the city gets hot, hot, hot. 

That said, I’d also suggest these coastal destinations in the off-season, when the swell is up and the surfers are out. A crisp, blue-sky day at the beach is still a day at the beach. Crashing waves and paradise are closer than you think!

Best Lisbon beach day trip for…

• First-time visitors – Cascais
• Surfers – Caparica, Ericeira, Peniche or Nazaré
• Nature lovers – Arrábida & Berlengas
• Boujee crowd – Comporta

My definition of a day trip is anywhere I can reach by car in 20 to 90 minutes. Public transport might take slightly longer, and I’ve included the best options for each location too.

Which of these Lisbon beach day trips can you do without a car?

Without a car, the easiest beaches to reach are along the Cascais train line. You can jump on at Cais do Sodré in Lisbon, and then jump off anywhere along the line – or take it to the final station in Cascais (mentioned in detail below). All of the other destinations on this list require an Uber/Bolt, a slower city bus or a coach.

Best beaches close to Lisbon downtown 

If you are just after a beach to visit while you’re visiting Lisbon, here are a few quick recommendations:

Cascais train line

• Caxias Beach – Lisbon’s best closest beach by train (17min from Cais do Sodre). It has a cute little fort and beach bar.
• Praia Velha – Lisbon’s closest dog-friendly beach. It’s in Paço de Arcos, which has great restaurants too.
• Carcavelos beach – Lisbon’s biggest city beach – lots of restaurants, beach volleyball, surf schools.

South of the Tagus River – (I talk about the Caparica area below)

• Praia de Santo António – and the other beaches in front of Costa da Caparica town are all relatively the same (small beaches divided by groynes). For that reason, I prefer…
•  Nova Praia – The last beach in downtown Caparica with the best beach bars and where it gets a little wilder.
• Praia de São João – a great, wide beach closer to the river with top restaurants and bars.

Now, onto the best beach day trips near Lisbon…

Cascais: Chic marina, beaches and galleries

How to get to Cascais – 40-minute drive west from Lisbon, or hop on a gorgeous 50-minute train from Cais do Sodre. (It’s one of the most beautiful train journeys!). Very easy to reach from Lisbon.

A fishing village turned resort town, Cascais is the shining jewel of Lisbon’s coastline. This sophisticated seaside destination became popular with Portuguese royalty in the 19th century, and this heritage is reflected in the grand villas and museums dotted along the seafront. Head here to hop from beach to beach, explore the diverse Museum Quarter, witness the power of nature at Boca do Inferno, and wander the historic cobbled streets in search of the perfect long seafood lunch.

Things to do in Cascais

• Wander the main streets of the Old Town – look up to see the grand 19th-century villas and look down for the ornate mosaic sidewalks.
• Enjoy a long seafood lunch by the water. Cascais has fantastic fresh fish, and I love Portuguese seafood rice (arroz de marisco).
• Go for a dip at one of the town beaches, such as Praia da Rainha.
• Explore the Museum Quarter: Visit the historic Citadel of Cascais (fort); see contemporary works at the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego; and take in the view from the Santa Marta Lighthouse.
• Visit Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), a dramatic cliff formation just outside of town where the Atlantic waves crash in with immense force. It’s a prime spot for sunset.
• Cycle the coast for free: Grab a free ‘Bicas’ bike near the train station and follow the coastal path toward Boca do Inferno and out to Guincho.
• Drive or walk around to Praia do Guincho, one of Lisbon’s most gorgeous, windswept beaches, perfect for surfing and kite-surfing.
• Visit Cabo da Roca (car or bus needed), Europe’s westernmost point, for breathtaking, rugged coastal views.
• Check out the Mercado da Vila (Municipal Market) for fresh local produce, fish and a vibrant atmosphere. The Saturday market is particularly good.

Ericeira: chilled out surf town

How to get to Ericeira – 40-minute drive north from Lisbon, or a slower coach bus with Mafrense from Campo Grande. Alternatively join this guided day trip that includes Mafra Palace.

If you’ve seen pictures of the whitewashed coastal architecture of Portugal, then you’ll love Ericeira. Most of the houses are white with a striking cobalt blue trim, which pops nicely in photos against the bright blue sky. Ericeira is home to Europe’s only World Surf Reserve, so this small fishing village has become a bit of a haven for surf and yoga-loving expats.

A day here might start with a fancy flat white and a yoga or surf lesson, then roll into a long, slow seafood-heavy lunch at a classic marisqueira (where you eat mostly shellfish by weight), or at the progressive and very cool Costa Fria –one of my favourite restaurants in all of Portugal. After lunch, laze on the beach and catch some sunshine or shop the old town and pause for an ouriço da Ericeira sweet with an espresso.

Things to do in Ericeira

• Wander the old town and take a million photos of cute doors and cobalt-trimmed streets.
• Catch a wave at the World Surf Reserve – book a lesson or BYO board and hit the break at Ribeira d’Ilhas.
• Try the famous ouriço da Ericeira, a traditional local sweet named after the sea urchin.
• Head to a clifftop bar like Mar das Latas for a sunset wine or cocktail overlooking the ocean.
• Go for a swim or sunbake at the central and easy-to-access Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach).
• Enjoy a classic, long seafood lunch by the water at a traditional marisqueira, or go modern at the cool Costa Fria.
• Skip the fancy places and eat a prego (Portuguese steak sandwich) at the old-school favourite, Taberna Lebre.
• Combine your trip with a visit to the magnificent Palace of Mafra, a short drive inland, which features a vast Baroque complex. This guided day trip combines the two.

Bonus tip: On the way to Ericeira, you could pass through Mafra (mentioned below) to see its ginormous palace or wander trails in the Tapada da Mafra where you’ll see deer and wild boars.

Costa da Caparica: Lisbon’s best beaches

How to get to Costa da Caparica – 20-40 minute drive south from Lisbon, depending on which beach you want to explore. Public transport isn’t great – so it’s simpler to use a Bolt rideshare for €10-15 (use this link to get my discount code).

Costa da Caparica is almost 30 kilometres (18 miles) of ocean-facing coastline, south of Lisbon, where you’ll find the best beach clubs and most beautiful Lisbon beaches. You can reach the downtown 80s-vibe of the namesake town in as little as a 15-minute drive from the city. But the rule is simple: the further south you venture, the wilder and prettier the beaches of Costa da Caparica become, backed only by sweeping sand dunes and protected fossil cliffs.

Near the town centre, you’ll find lots of cafés, restaurants and a wide esplanade ideal for walking, running and biking. I love to come here early in the morning while my partner surfs, often seeing colourful, wooden fishing boats pulling up onto the shore. I watch as old ladies flock over with a plastic bag in hand, swapping cash for fresh fish before it hits the market. If you keep going just past the southernmost groyne, you’ll come upon some charming striped wooden fishermen’s huts tucked in the dunes.

The coast stretches from Caparica town down to Praia da Fonte da Telha. On the many beaches in between, you’ll find some of the coolest beach bars and restaurants around. If you’re after a long, lazy seafood lunch by the sea, this is the spot to kick back. In summer, look for special events and DJ parties that often start in the afternoon and go until dawn.

Things to do in Costa da Caparica

• Go to the beach, anywhere between Costa da Caparica town to Fonte da Telha. Despite being long, wide and sandy, you’ll almost always find an open café or restaurant and many rent sun loungers and umbrellas.
• Book in a surf lesson – consistent breaks make this the go-to spot for beginner surfers near Lisbon.
• Drink sangria and watch the day slip away at a beach bar – Kailua, Inha and Irmão usually have a good vibe.
• Enjoy a seafood lunch by the water – Praia Princesa is a favourite spot for grilled fish. (Book ahead!)
• Hike the Paisagem Protegida da Arriba Fóssil to see the ancient, fossil-rich cliffs that stretch inland.
• Visit Convento dos Capuchos, a 16th-century monastery perched on the cliffs for an amazing viewpoint.

Arrábida Natural Park: turquoise bays & limestone cliffs

How to reach Arrábida – 45-minute drive south from Lisbon, or take a train to Setúbal and then board a bus or book a water taxi, or join a guided tour (recommended if you don’t have a car).

The wild paradise of Arrábida Natural Park is one of Portugal’s most spectacular coastal reserves – a protected stretch of limestone cliffs, secret coves and forested hills that tumble down to waters so turquoise you’ll swear you’re in the Mediterranean. 

Spend your day beach-hopping between Portinho da Arrábida, Praia dos Coelhos and Praia de Galápos, or lace up for a cliffside hike with sweeping views of the Tróia Peninsula and the Sado Estuary. Half the fun is on the water, so hire a kayak or board a boat to meet dolphins and snorkel among fish. 

You can easily combine Arrábida with time in Setúbal, Sesimbra or Azeitão.

Things to do in Arrábida Natural Park

• Beach-hop (or stay put) – Bring sneakers and a towel and spend the day exploring Portinho da Arrábida, Praia de Galápos and Praia dos Coelhos.
• Hike the Serra da Arrábida trails – Lace up your boots for panoramic coastal walks through pine forest and scrub-covered hills with great views.
• Enjoy a long fish lunch – My favourite spot is O Farol in Portinho da Arrábida. Message ahead to book a table!
• Visit the Convento da Arrábida – A 16th-century Franciscan monastery clinging to the mountainside, with serene views over the park and ocean. Tours must be pre-booked, but are totally worth it.
• Hire kayaks – Paddle along the limestone cliffs and into hidden sea caves. Local operators leave from Setúbal and Portinho da Arrábida.
• Board a dolphin-watching tour – Boats from either Setúbal or Sesimbra venture into the marine park, where you can meet the best locals.
• Stop at the viewpoints – Drive the winding Estrada de Escarpa road and pull over at Miradouro do Portinho da Arrábida for the best panoramas.
• Go snorkelling or diving – The calm, clear waters are part of the Arrábida Marine Reserve. You’ll spot fish darting through seaweed forests just a few metres from shore.

Read next… My perfect day in Setúbal & Arrábida Natural Park

Sesimbra: pretty fishing town with stunning beaches

How to get to Sesimbra – 40-minute drive south from Lisbon, or choose slower options with public buses from Lisbon. You could also take a ferry to Cacilhas, then catch a bus. Google Maps is your bestie.

Just over a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, the hard-working fishing village topped by an ancient castle can feel like a world away from the busy streets of the city. When I pulled up for lunch recently, the first thing I saw was a scraggly old scuba diving instructor wearing a wetsuit and smoking a pipe. Meanwhile, the fishermen’s bar nearby was overflowing with locals back from a hard morning’s work.

While it sounds rough around the edges, Sesimbra actually has more of a holiday or vacation feel to the town, just without being overly commercial. The beachfront promenade is a gorgeous spot to grab an ice cream and wander along, but not before you’ve chosen from the variety of options to eat freshly caught seafood.

Things to do in Sesimbra

• Hike up to the Sesimbra Castle (Castelo de Sesimbra) above the town for amazing views of the bay and coastline.
• Walk, kayak or boat to the spectacular Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, often considered one of Portugal’s most beautiful hidden coves. It’s not an easy hike down, so book a taxi boat if in doubt.
• Or just pop up an umbrella at the central beaches, Praia do Ouro or Praia da Califórnia, known for their calm, clear and family-friendly waters.
• Drop into the Municipal Mercado to discover the catch-of-the-day and what’s in season.
• Sesimbra is a renowned diving and snorkelling hub. Book an excursion to explore the underwater world of the Luiz Saldanha Marine Park in the nearby Arrábida Natural Park. 
• You can also jet off on a dolphin-watching excursion to meet the best locals.
• Enjoy a serious long seafood lunch – Sesimbra has some of the freshest fish in the country.

Combine Sesimbra with…. exploring the UNESCO World Biosphere of Arrábida Natural Park, it’s neighbour! Or, on the way there, stop in Azeitão for a wine tasting at José Maria da Fonseca or Quinta da Bacalhôa, famous for their Moscatel dessert wine. Another great detour is Cabo Espichel, a dramatic cliff-top sanctuary nearby, where you can see fossilised dinosaur footprints visible on the rock faces.

Read next… Tile of the day: Sesimbra

Sintra: secret coast of wild beaches & mist

How to reach Sintra’s beaches – 45-minute drive from Lisbon. You’ll need a car (public transport doesn’t reach most beaches). Bring layers for Sintra’s cooler microclimate.

Just beyond the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra lies an entirely different kingdom – one where shifting tides, Atlantic mist and dramatic cliffs rule. The rugged coastal edge of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park hides stretches of barely-touched sandy coves that are raw and a little wild.

There are half a dozen beaches to explore. Start at Praia da Adraga, a cinematic cove framed by towering sea stacks, or try Praia Grande, a huge sweep of sand with a 100m-long saltwater pool. Praia das Maçãs (Apple Beach) has a small seaside village vibe, with cafés, a surf school and a tram that occasionally runs down from Sintra town. Further north, Praia das Azenhas do Mar has a small tidal pool.

Things to do on Sintra’s Coast

• Hike down to Praia da Ursa – One of Portugal’s most spectacular wild beaches, backed by jagged cliffs and sea stacks shaped like a bear (ursa). It’s a steep 30-minute hike.
• Watch the waves at Praia da Adraga – A photographer’s dream with dark cliffs and wild Atlantic energy. The oceanfront seafood restaurant is excellent.
• Take the tram from Sintra village to Praia das Maçãs – A laid-back seaside village where locals come to surf, swim and eat. It’s a cute vintage tram ride through nature!
• Catch the sunset at Azenhas do Mar – A postcard-perfect cliffside village where whitewashed houses tumble down toward a natural seawater pool carved into the rocks.
• Visit Europe’s westernmost point, Cabo da Roca – A bucket-list item for many.
• Explore the trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park – The beach is too windy? Venture inland to find trails.

Berlengas Islands & Peniche: Raw, rocky islands and a surf town

How to reach Peniche – 75-minute drive north from Lisbon, or take a 90-minute Rede Expressos coach from Sete Rios. Boat trips to Berlengas leave from Peniche (pre-booking recommended).

A day trip to the Berlengas Islands is real Portuguese bucket-list material. These are some of the only islands off the continental Portuguese coast, and this tiny archipelago is a protected nature reserve known for its raw, rocky landscape and stunning turquoise waters. During the summer months, you can easily jump on a half-day boat trip out there to see the famous historic fortress and the caves.

You’ll set off for the islands from Peniche, a very relaxed seaside town about 75 minutes north of Lisbon. This entire region, known as the Oeste (West), is a paradise of seafood, sunshine and epic surf – but be aware that it is also prone to fog, especially in the mornings. In Peniche town, round out your day with a visit to the National Museum of Resistance and Freedom within the old fort or explore the beach at Supertubos or Baleal.

Things to do in Peniche and the Berlengas Islands

• Catch a ferry or speed boat from Peniche to Berlenga Grande, the main island. A handful of companies offer the same service. (Book ahead!)
• On Berlenga Grande, walk across the stone causeway to explore the famous Fort of São João Batista, take a small boat tour into caves, hike island trails, or laze at the only beach during your 3-4 hours on the island.
• In Peniche, drive around the scenic headland of Cabo Carvoeiro to check out the dramatic cliffs, lighthouse and the beautiful Nossa Senhora dos Remédios sanctuary.
• Spend time at the National Museum of Resistance and Freedom, located within the imposing old fort, a former political prison (free for Portuguese residents).
• This coast is home to world-class surf. Watch professionals catch a wave at the famous Supertubos beach (known for its powerful, barrel-shaped waves) or visit the beautiful, smaller peninsula of Baleal.
• Peniche is a working fishing port. If you’re there in the morning, explore the Mercado de Municipal or just head straight for lunch at legendary Tasca do Joel or the more chill A Sardinha.

Comporta: boujee beach escape

How to reach Comporta – 75-90-minute drive south from Lisbon. You’ll need a private car or transfer.

Just over an hour south of Lisbon, Comporta is a long, laid-back stretch of coast where rice fields, pine forests and little villages meet endless dunes where the Atlantic rolls in. Starting at the southern edge of the Tróia Peninsula, the villages of Comporta have gained an international reputation for delivering barefoot luxury to the jet-set crowd. Artists, architects and designers have descended on a few sleepy fishing villages to build private resorts, restore thatched cabanas and open concept stores.

Admittedly, Comporta’s beaches are gorgeous – but lunch on the sand here now comes with a luxury pricetag. It probably won’t shock Europeans with stronger economies, and you can still dine at cheaper, local restaurants tucked in villages off the beach. While here, you could spend the morning riding horses through the rice paddies and pine forests or spotting flamingos, storks and even dolphins in the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, one of Portugal’s richest wetland ecosystems.

Stop for lunch, then claim a spot on Praia da Comporta, Praia do Carvalhal or Praia do Pego. Late in the afternoon, go shopping in Comporta village, where you’ll find dozens of boutiques and little galleries.

Things to do in Comporta

• Relax on Praia da Comporta, a vast, pristine beach with soft sand and turquoise water.
• Ride horses through the rice paddies and pine forests, and over dunes onto the beach.
• Go birdwatching – flamingos, herons and storks are common sightings in the wetlands.
• Lunch by the sea at Sal or Comporta Café, or try Dona Bia for Portuguese flavours.
• Shop the chic boutiques and design stores that make Comporta famous for its understated style.
• Add the Tróia Peninsula, where you can visit Roman ruins or go dolphin-watching.

Read next… The average person’s guide to A-list Comporta: Portugal’s luxe beach town

Nazaré: big waves, 7 skirts & sun-dried seafood

How to reach Nazaré – 90-minute drive north from Lisbon, or more like 2 hours with a Rede Expressos coach.

The once-sleepy seaside town of Nazaré has two main seasons. While people have always flocked here for the striped beach huts, grilled sardines and racks of seafood drying in the summer sunshine, now the coastal town is world-famous for its record-breaking winter waves, which draw big-wave surfers from across the globe. But beyond the surf, Nazaré keeps its old soul – a whitewashed fishing town where elderly women often still wear the town’s traditional seven-layered skirts.

The town sits in two parts. Praia da Nazaré is the lower, main beachfront strip, lined with restaurants and cafés. Ride the funicular up to the Sítio district on the cliff above to find epic views from the Miradouro do Suberco, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré (a pilgrimage site since the 14th century) and the dramatic Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo. From the fort, you can see the famous Praia do Norte, home to the Nazaré Canyon, a deep underwater trench that amplifies Atlantic swells into waves over 30 metres high (100 feet). In 2011, surfer Garrett McNamara rode his world-record wave, putting Nazaré on the global surf map.

Things to do in Nazaré

• Watch the waves at Praia do Norte, best viewed from the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo or the upper cliffs. Check the radar for big wave alerts – the best chances are between October and March, but if there’s no alert, expect to see almost flat ocean!
• Ride the funicular from the beachfront up to Sítio for sweeping views and historic landmarks.
• Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, with its richly tiled interior and centuries-old devotion legend.
• Explore traditional fishing culture – look for colourful wooden boats on the beach and women selling dried fish in summer.
• Stroll along Praia da Nazaré and stop for a sweet or lunch at one of the cafés or seafood restaurants.
• Check out the Nazaré Canyon Interpretation Centre at the fort for a quick dive into the science behind the giant waves. It’s crazy what lies beneath the ocean surface!

Let me know in the comments if you went on any beach day trips from Lisbon – I’d love to hear about your highlights!

More Lisbon day trip ideas

• 18 best Lisbon day trips
• Lisbon’s best day trip: Sintra 1 or 2-day itinerary
• My perfect day in Setúbal & Arrábida Natural Park

The post Lisbon’s best beach day trips appeared first on Olá Daniela.

This year also brought a milestone I’m genuinely thrilled to celebrate: in September, Olá Daniela passed 1,000,000 views in just 12 months. So, obrigada for being here, reading along, sharing posts and cheering me on. Every click and recommendation gives me a real buzz and nudges my introverted little heart to keep showing up.

In previous years, I kept this round-up strictly Portugal-only. But the truth is, I do stray over the border now and then – and I always go overboard on research – so it feels silly not to share those notes too. From this year forward, I’m including a few memorable trips “beyond”: skiing in France, exploring London, meeting chefs in Athens, and making memories in Thailand.

So, let’s dive into the past year of travel – with silly stories, insights and helpful notes or linked guides included.

A winter art staycation in Lisbon

January is one of the coldest and wettest months in Lisbon, but instead of being miserable about it, we treated the city like we were visitors ourselves. One thing I’ve noticed about living in Lisbon is that it’s often sunny, so I don’t want to spend even an hour inside wandering around a gallery or museum. Which is a shame, because Lisbon has some cool spaces to visit.

Each weekend in January, we decided to squeeze in a museum or cultural activity, which meant visiting the exhibitions at MAAT by the riverside, exploring the new Gulbenkian CAM (Contemporary Art Museum), and a trip to the Oceanarium to meet Lisbon’s most famous pair – the two Alaskan sea otters, Micas and Maré. Funnily enough, most of these days were fairly sunny – but we stuck to our guns.

Rounding out the fun was a fado show at Associação do Fado Casto, an ideal moody winter activity if you ask me – especially since the red wine is limitless.

Read next… Guide to winter in Portugal: Where to go, things to do & more

A ski trip to Chamonix

Each year, my partner organises a ski trip somewhere in Europe, and I usually skip it. But when his boys’ crew fell through, I agreed to be his ski buddy so long as it was within range of Geneva, where one of my best friends lives so she could join us. 

And so, last February, I went skiing for the first time in a decade in Chamonix, an adventure ski town just over the border from Switzerland in France. My first day on the slopes, I was like a duck to water, carving up the mountain at speed – impressing both Jorge and my friend Gemma (and myself, to be honest). On Day 1, we went for the smoother slopes of Les Houches, partly to test my skills and mostly because I wanted to eat at a mid-mountain restaurant called Les Vieilles Luges. I’d go back to Chamonix just to dine at this special chalet once more.

On Day 2, I’d forgotten how to ski. Whatever talent I’d displayed the day before had all but disappeared. The slopes off Chamonix town were steep, the runs were packed, my legs were tired, and suddenly I didn’t know how to pizza let alone carve. In a state of panic, I insisted on being left in the cafeteria for a while. Later in the afternoon, I did manage to get back on the slopes and had to relearn how to ski.

We spent a full week in Chamonix, eating around town on the nights we didn’t use the raclette maker that came with our apartment (classic, essential!). Here’s what was good:

• Café Bluebird – we popped in here most mornings for a solid breakfast burger with sausage, bacon and eggs.
• Moody Coffee Roasters – for a solid flat white
• Yumidori – surprisingly excellent Japanese food and sushi from a top chef
• MUMMA – cool spot for Asian fusion. Must book ahead! Fun vibe for weekend nights
• Josephine – the French bistro classic
• ELA – delicious falafel and salad boxes
• Shoukâ – the hot chocolate here! Blueberry tart! A cosy co-work spot too.
• Big Mountain Basecamp – craft beer brewery
• La Crémerie des Aiguilles – a mountain restaurant nearby, just take the bus or train

A sunny February London weekend

Sunshine. In February. In London. I don’t know what we did to deserve that, but the British city put on a show for us. We’d been somewhat avoiding London for a few years – when we want big-city fun, we’d plan a trip to Paris or Madrid… but this February, Jack White was touring, and it led us back there. Some 72 hours later, and we wondered why we hadn’t returned earlier.

Best bites in London:

• Beigel Bake – we rolled off the plane and into Shoreditch at 11pm, heading straight to this 24/7 classic for a pastrami beigel. Excellent.
• Jolene – delicious pastries and coffee
• OMA – modern Greek share plates spot with a Michelin star 
• St. JOHN Bread and Wine – for classic British cuisine. We had bone marrow and Welsh rarebit.
• Indian food on Brick Lane – this is something I had on my bucket list, and we tried Aladin. Very good lamb chops and curry.
• Crown Kebabs – a mind-blowing midnight bite
• Bangers – breakfast burgers with brilliant branding
• Banh Mi Keu – a 10/10 bahn mi sandwich, which we took for the plane

Best things I did

• Stayed in Shoreditch, somewhere I’ve always wanted to explore deeper. I think the east is more raw and interesting than the west.
• Victoria and Albert Museum – Museums are free! And the V&A is amazing – I could have spent all day here if I didn’t have to meet people.
• Hamilton in West End – musical theatre! The show was excellent, and we got great last-minute seats for a steal.
• Saw squirrels in Hyde Park – they are just the cutest animals with those floofy tails that move like magic.
• Borough Market – it’s a bit touristic, but there’s a great meat pie stall and lots of good people watching.
• Tate Modern – explored the floors of modern and contemporary art with river views on the roof.
• Vintage shopping along Brick Lane – need I say more? I couldn’t believe the scale and layers of shops and pop-up markets in the area.
• Columbia Road Flower Market – we joined a friend for her Sunday morning ritual.

Going with the flow at a spring yoga and wellness retreat

I’m more of a wellness worrier than warrior, but a 5-day retreat at Quinta Carvalhas flipped me on my head. Just Flow happens twice a year at this estate in Portugal’s Ribatejo area, just an 80-minute drive or train north of Lisbon. For the spring equinox edition, we rested, recharged and set positive intentions for the season ahead – all while someone else cooked and cleaned for us.

It was a gorgeous retreat, and I recapped my time there in a full article here. So if you’re curious, all the details are over there.

A bucket-list weekend at Hotel Convento de São Paulo

I had dreamed of staying at Hotel Convento de São Paulo ever since I first saw a picture of the 800-year-old convent-turned-hotel’s tiled hallways. And let me tell you, it’s even better in real life. 

You see, the incredible independent hotel is tucked deep in the quiet, wild hills of the Serra d’Ossa, deep within the Alentejo. It’s close to some of my favourite towns, yet secluded and quiet – the perfect place to rest and relax in the spring sunshine. It was even warm enough to order G&Ts by the pool.

I loved it so much, I wrote a hotel review of our slow, long weekend stay here – and you can book the hotel here.

Bottomless wine and secret cellars: Redondo’s tasca and talha trail

When I want to really feel the heart and soul of Portugal, I like to dash out to the Alentejo region, where there’s a different sense of community and pace of life. One April afternoon, along with some friends, we ventured to Redondo for a six-stop rally that bounced between historic tascas and private adegas, usually closed to the public, with the promise of wine, snacks and songs at each stop. 

Most were local people who seemed to know each other, and I became a minor celebrity – meeting the mayor and getting interviewed for radio. I wrote about the event in detail here, and you can find more cool events in my event guides – who knows, you might be the only foreigner there and make the news too.

Summer arrived early in Tomar, Portugal’s city of Templar legends

I’ve visited Tomar not once but twice for a festival that only happens once every four years, and yet I had never visited its main site: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Convento do Cristo. It was time to make things right and properly explore his small historic city that’s closely linked to the legends of the mysterious Knights Templar.

In May, we spent five nights in this personality-packed Portuguese city, which seems like a lot of time, but there was so much to do in this destination, named the top off-the-radar summer holiday destination on the European Hidden Gem Index. Now, despite it being May, Portugal’s first heatwave ripped through the country, giving us a couple of days between 32–36ºC (89–96ºF) – ideal for exploring a few river beaches too.

I’ve written a helpful Tomar guide, plus where to eat in Tomar and the best day trips nearby.

Azores calling – June days on Terceira and São Miguel island

When a good friend from Australia said she was planning to visit us for a few weeks and wanted to explore the Azores, without hesitating, I said, I’m coming – which islands? And off we went to São Miguel and Terceira.

It was my third time on São Miguel Island, the largest of the nine Azorean islands, and there’s just so much to do there. We had four action-packed days where we explored from dawn until dusk – and I’ve written an itinerary you can steal, along with a where to eat on São Miguel Island guide and a thermal hot springs guide.

Afterward, we hopped to Terceira, the third-largest island in the archipelago, known for its volcanic landscapes, green patchwork fields, lava tubes and colourful Holy Spirit impérios. It was my first time on the island, and I loved the more relaxed pace – you can steal my three-day Terceira Island itinerary and my where to eat guide.

I also wrote a 101 guide to the nine islands of the Azores.

A foodie weekend in Porto

Back on the mainland, the same friend and I boarded a train north to Porto for a food-filled weekend at Canto de Luz, a really cool boutique hotel in the heart of the city. Over two nights, we joined a food tour, did a Douro wine tasting and cooked up a feast during a traditional Portuguese cooking class as part of the hotel’s in-house experiences.

Canto de Luz is located in one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Porto, and it was so nice to have a pool to return to for late afternoon swims between exploring the city streets. Read about our fun foodie Porto weekend here.

Summer days in Porto Covo & Aljezur

After avoiding summer vaycays in Portugal during peak season, we’re slowly softening into taking a slow week off in late July or early August. This year, that meant three nights in Porto Covo, a blue-trimmed coastal town on the Alentejo coast. It’s the very start of the Costa Vicentina’s 226.5-km (140-mile) coastal Fishermen’s Trail, so we walked the first day – a 10-km (6-mile) stretch from Praia de São Torpes back to Porto Covo town. It was insanely scenic as we hopped along beaches, stopping for a leisurely fish lunch partway at Pedra da Casca. This area has some of the most beautiful beaches and bays I’ve seen in Portugal.

During the summer, the local council puts on free transport for beachgoers, so we took the bus to the start. Next time I’d do the opposite – starting early from town on foot and taking the bus back – as the restaurants were closer to the start, and after lunch we still had a long walk ahead with no shade cover during the hottest part of a summer’s day. 

After Porto Covo, we continued south to Aljezur, a coastal area famous for its surf. I loveeeeed where we stayed, a little in the hills at Herdade Quinta Natura, where we had a beautiful pool, great hosts and an amazing breakfast each day. We’d wake up in nature, surrounded by cork and eucalypt forests, and we were a short drive to the beach. Much better than staying in the “urbanisations”, I think.

Writing articles about these two stays is high on my to-do list! You can book the incredible Aljezur guesthouse here – and message me if you need notes in the meantime.

Read next… What to wear in Portugal – packing list and seasonal guide

Late summer in Tavira, on the Algarve coast

Visiting the Algarve in September has become a bit of a tradition. We skip the peak summer madness and still enjoy warm sunny days, humid evenings and swims in water that’s as warm as it gets. Every visit we make this time of year is just the best – and this trip was no different.

We gravitate towards the eastern end of the Algarve, and this year – after a beautiful wedding in the charming inland Algarve town of Alte (stay at Alte Tradition Guest House if you go, a gorgeous guesthouse with a rooftop jacuzzi) – we parked ourselves at Cabanas da Tavira, a little holiday town.

This gave me time to explore Tavira again, revisit some favourite restaurants like the gorgeous Austa and classic Casa Corvo, discover new favourites like Mesa Farta and The Table, and take a casual day trip to Spain for vermouth, croquettes and tuna in Huelva.

A bureaucratic trip to beautiful Viseu

On Olá Daniela, I tell you about all the amazing places you can visit in Portugal, but I do not tell you how to move here. If you want those tips, look elsewhere – however, I can tell you that bureaucracy here involves layers and layers of semi-working systems that take time, patience and often don’t connect, though usually (thankfully) have some level of forgiveness.

Anyway, in October, I finally had an appointment to renew my long-expired residency card. That appointment was rescheduled – by the government agency – twice and moved from a city two hours from where I live to one 3.5 hours from where I live. Do you complain? No, because you literally can’t call or email them. Complaining is impossible. And figuring out what documents you need is a stab in the dark too (with community Facebook groups and Reddit doing some heavy lifting).

Being a glass-half-full girl, I saw it as an opportunity to revisit Viseu, Portugal’s pretty inland garden city. Honestly, Viseu is gorgeous. The historic old town is beautiful, raw and genuine with winding cobblestone roads lined with vintage neon signage, leading up to the historic Sé Cathedral that sits opposite a huge baroque church. Across the compact city centre, you’ll find loads of lush gardens filled with fountains and enough beauty to keep you busy for the day.

I took the bus up and stayed at a great guesthouse, Celtic Lodge. Here’s how I suggest you spend 24 hours in Viseu.

Exploring food and philosophy in Athens

Athens is cool, really cool. In October, I was invited to Athens to attend Gastrosophy, a one-day event where chefs meet to talk food and philosophy. I arrived to find a city that in some ways felt like the Lisbon I landed in back in 2018 – raw, unapologetic, real and full of character.

While most visitors skip through on the way to the islands, pausing briefly at the Acropolis for a selfie, those who stop to explore (and can see behind the graffiti) will find a city on the verge of something great again. I spent five nights in the Greek capital, where 30% of the country’s population lives, and spent my days hopping between century-old taverns, local mezze bars and modern Greek share spots across various neighbourhoods. 

My favourite way to eat somewhere new is to dive into the root of the cuisine – tasting the traditional dishes the way they were meant to be – before hitting up higher-end restaurants where young chefs are looking at those roots and reimagining what’s possible. In Athens, I joined a Culinary Backstreets tour to go deeper into Greek food and its many stories (use my discount code DANIELA5), and then dined at modern places like Ateno, where a Greek salad is reimagined into a work of art.  

Full report to come in January.

The Thai vacation with a White Lotus twist

At 6am I landed in Chiang Mai, a full 48 hours ahead of my partner Jorge. Why? Because I could – and it gave me even more time to eat – bouncing between street food stalls, Michelin-guide khao soi noodle spots and Thai coffee shops. En route to visit our families at home in Australia, we’ve started looking for a sneaky stop in Asia – and this time it’s Thailand. Thai food is one of my long-time favourites so it is a dream to be here (yep, I’ve still got a week to go! Send Bangkok tips!)

Once Jorge arrived, we jumped in the back of a fire engine red Songthaew truck for an incredible Northern Thai street food tour with A Chef’s Tour. We tried everything but khao soi noodles, gaining a deeper knowledge of food from the North, its influences and history. It was the ideal introduction ahead of a dawn-til-dusk Northern Thai cooking class with Lyn from Love Chiang Mai the next day. We started at a local market, buying fresh buffalo meat, fresh produce and noodles before heading to her outdoor kitchen for a serious lesson on Thai cooking.

The next stop was the south – staying overnight in Ao Nang for a private sunrise longtail to Hong Island (dreamy) before a transfer to Koh Lanta. I was under the impression that we’d stay at a semi-nice resort for a couple of nights, but Jorge had other plans. He’d mentioned a speedboat to the resort, but it was only when the taxi driver pulled into Pimalai Pier that the penny dropped.

Taxi driver: “Oh, very fancy!”
Me: “Haha, we’re not staying there. We’re just using the pier”
Jorge: “Actually, we are staying at Pimalai.”
Me: *enters shock*

Soon we were aboard a slick cream speedboat jetting past craggy karst landscapes down to the southern end of Koh Lanta island to stay at the absolutely stunning 5-star Pimalai Resort, where Jorge had booked the most amazing private pool villa. I’m still processing how gorgeous the resort was… just pure White Lotus vibes with golf buggies, amazing staff and views, great food… and long story short – I’m a fiancée now. Sure, it took him more than 14 years but what a way to end 2025! I’m so happy.

I’m writing this while partway through the trip – so if you have any Bangkok tips, please leave a comment!

Where am I hoping to visit in Portugal in 2026? 

So, I thought if I write my wishlist down, there’s a better chance of manifesting these trips – but it didn’t work last year, so my list remains somewhat the same (with a few additions!) I need to refer back more and dream a little harder!

• Day trip or weekend to Alcobaça and Batalha – I’m overdue to see those mega monasteries.
• Cozy wine-filled long weekend in the Douro Valley, and to see the ancient rock art at Foz Côa.
• A long weekend hiking between more of the 27 Aldeias do Xisto (Schist Villages) 
• Slow late-summer days on the southern Algarve coast of Portugal
• More Azores: I’d love to visit the Pico, Faial, São Jorge triangle of islands.
• Weekend trips to Marvão, Mértola, Beja, Serra da Estrela….

Catch up on past years…

• My 10 favourite Portugal trips in 2024
• My 10 favourite Portugal trips in 2023
• My 6 favourite Portugal adventures from 2022

Keep reading…

• Guide to winter in Portugal: Where to go, things to do & more
• Best Festivals & Cultural Events in Portugal
• Food Festival Guide: Best Gastronomic Events in Portugal
• Best Medieval & Historic Events in Portugal in 2026
• Sardines & pimba: Your guide to Lisbon’s Santo António Festival
• Devil on the loose: 7 traditional pagan carnivals to attend in Portugal
• 22 most beautiful castles in Portugal

The post My 14 favourite Portugal trips (and beyond) in 2025 appeared first on Olá Daniela.

This isn’t a Portugal packing guide subtly trying to sell you a travel kettle, flashlight or packing cubes – I want to offer up genuine, practical advice so you’ll have a better idea of the climate, how locals dress, and what you might need. First, I’ll share some general tips on what to wear in Portugal, then we’ll dive into a month-by-month weather breakdown before I share a basic Portugal packing list (to get you started!) and answer FAQs. 

To keep this real, I’ll share pictures of myself or my partner Jorge for some Portugal travel outfit ideas too. Vamos.

Top packing tips for Portugal

• Pack practical shoes only! – Forget heels, focus on good grip. I’ll explain in detail below. 
• Activewear is for the gym – Like other European cities, locals wear activewear to do sport, hike or workout, but not to explore a city. Wear pants or shorts instead of tights (though, at the same time, no one will shame you or say anything if you do).
• Houses are poorly insulated – In winter, it’s often warmer outside than in. If you’re in a shiny new hotel, you’ll have heating and aircon, but if you rent a room or apartment, you might have single-pane windows and walls that just feel cold.
• It’s often windy at coastal towns and cities – Don’t bring short, floaty skirts or dresses. Go for midi or maxi, or more slimline or A-line cuts, if you don’t want your hem around your ears.
• You’ll need a light jacket in summer – The dry summer days give way to cool evenings. My Lisbon theory is that if the day is warmer than 32°C (90°F), then you won’t need a jacket after dark. Otherwise, if I’m out all day until after sunset, I (annoyingly) carry a linen shirt, denim jacket or light sweater around in the heat.
• Layers are your best friend – On the above note, the cool Atlantic Ocean can shift temperatures quite drastically from day to day, so pack layers that give you options to adapt.

What are the locals wearing in Portugal? What’s the street style vibe?

Maybe you’ve seen the “Portuguese girlie” trend on TikTok or Instagram. The truth is that those Portuguese fashion IT girls dress far crazier than what the average person is wearing. I find Portugal – even in the middle of the cities – tends to be very casual. People mostly dress not to stand out – think muted tones, lots of jeans and t-shirt combos with sneakers. Practical, comfortable and smart casual is how I’d describe true Portuguese style.

 You don’t need new clothes for Portugal. I’m a sustainable fashion advocate and am passionate about sharing guides to things Made in Portugal – so let’s deinfluence the idea that you need a whole new wardrobe for your vacation. You have lovely things in your cupboards, I know it.

If you want to shop cool stores in Portugal, check out this guide to Lisbon shopping guide to the best sustainable stores & boutiques, or go vintage shopping – I have vintage guides for Lisbon and Porto.

What to wear in Porto

Porto is often a full step cooler and significantly wetter than Lisbon or the south, so your packing strategy should consider this. Layers are key (even in summer), and think practical like the locals – jeans, cosy sweaters, quality waterproof or water-resistant footwear.

Porto does get hot in summer – so pack T-shirts, shorts and light dresses, expecting a heat wave – but outside the summer months, a rain jacket and a sturdy umbrella are non-negotiable.

Read next… 14 common mistakes people make when visiting Portugal

What to wear in Lisbon

Lisbon is my home, and it might be one of Europe’s most casual capitals. I’d say most locals opt for a chic but simple combo of jeans and a T-shirt or top, though many do dress up a bit with cool jackets and trendy accessories. Most women don’t wear heels, so that means funky sneakers that give an urban edge to any look do dia (outfit of the day). It’s rare to see people flashing designer goods or bags – a chic vintage leather jacket will earn you more street cred.

Always carry a light jacket or linen shirt in the evenings (for me, the only exception to this rule is when the high of the day was over 32°C (90°F)). Lisbon can be super windy (especially in May), so I avoid short, billowing skirts or dresses.

What to wear in the Algarve

The Algarve is a region, not a singular place – think of it as a handful of villages, towns and small coastal cities. And, as with any beach town, the vibe is relaxed, resort-style. Winter is super mild, and summer is mostly consistent – ideal for beach days and al fresco evenings. The atmosphere is holiday-vibe – flowy sundresses, shorts, flip flops.

Make sure to pack sneakers or proper sandals for exploring towns like Lagos or Tavira – you don’t want to stub your toes on cobblestones. Evenings are generally pleasant, but still pack a light denim jacket or sweater. Some areas of the Algarve are super luxe and offer plenty of Michelin dining – but if that’s your vibe, dress to match.

The most important rule: pack shoes with grip 

Portugal is one of the safest countries to visit in the world, but its streets are the most dangerous. We’re not talking street crime – we’re talking shiny, slippery cobblestones (though do keep an eye out for pickpockets in touristy areas too). Part of Portugal’s cultural heritage is the calçada portuguesa. Many footpaths and squares are made of small white stones that, combined with the hilly streets of Lisbon and Porto, can send you to your knees in a flash.

Forget anything with a heel and focus on shoes that have a good grip. Most locals will wear sneakers, boots, Birkenstocks, ballet flats or sandals that have a decent rubber sole. If you want heels for a fancy dinner out, pack at your own peril.

Recommended shoes: Sneakers, sturdy boots, sandals/Birkenstocks with a rubber sole.
Avoid: High heels, smooth-soled dress shoes, thin-soled ballet flats, shoes with smooth leather soles. Consider having extra grip added by a cobbler, if you must.

Packing for different seasons and destinations in Portugal

Spring in the northern interior is very different to spring on the southern Algarve coastline. While Portugal might be a small country, it has dozens of microclimates and great temperature variations, depending on where you visit. 

I live in Lisbon, and it’s a good central point – with Porto about a 3-hour drive north, and the Algarve coast a similar distance south – so if I’m speaking generally, I’m talking about Lisbon’s climate. Assume the southern Algarve coast will be a fraction warmer or milder, and that Porto will be a full step cooler.  

Those three top Portuguese destinations are all coastal, and the ocean affects the weather. If you’re heading to the interior – Douro Valley, Alentejo, Serra da Estrela – expect hotter summers and cooler winters.

What to pack for Portugal: month-by-month guide

Within each season, there’s too much variation in temperature and weather, so let’s dive into what to pack and wear for your trip to Portugal, month-by-month. Take a look at this quick table, then read the deep-dive about each month below. 

January and February: What to pack for Portugal

Average temperatures: Highs around 9-10°C / 48-50°F (in Lisbon, that’s more like 14°C / 57°F). Lows can drop below 0°C / 32°F inland.

What to expect

This is the low season when Portugal receives the most rainfall. The cold here feels damp and penetrating, thanks to our ugly friend, humidity. Indoor heating is limited in many shops and cafés, so dress ready for cool days inside and out. That said, January and February often offer bright, crisp blue-sky days. I’ve enjoyed January festivals under clear skies, and spent a four-day carnival celebration in the deep North without a drop of rain. Still, with rain and grey skies a real possibility, you’re rolling the dice with the weather.

What to wear in winter in Portugal

Layers, layers, layers! 

• Think jeans and long-sleeve shirts.
• Pack thick, warm sweaters.
• A wool or winter coat is essential.
• Don’t skip accessories like a scarf, gloves and a beanie or beret. 
• With a chance of rain, waterproof boots will be better than sneakers. 
• It’s worth having a waterproof coat or bringing an umbrella.

Read next….Complete guide to winter in Portugal

March and April: What to pack for Portugal

Average temperatures: Highs range from 12-19 °C (54-66 °F). Nights dip to around 7-12 °C (45-54 °F). Lisbon and the Algarve have slightly warmer averages, tickling 20-21°C (68-70°F) some days.

What to expect 

This is shoulder-season weather – often pleasant, sometimes not. If Portugal doesn’t get enough rainfall in January and February, no doubt it will arrive in March or April. There’s a saying: em abril, águas mil – which literally means “in April, a thousand waters” a.k.a it will rain, lots. April is my birthday – and I love low-key celebrations like a picnic in the park, but it’s impossible to guarantee sunny and dry weather, so I usually have to book a restaurant or wait to see the radar for last-minute outdoor fun.

What to pack for March and April

• Layering is key – think jeans or chinos, long-sleeve shirts, and a sweater or light fleece.
• Pack a light jacket or windbreaker to handle morning chill or coastal breezes.
• In April, I’d throw a dress or skirt in the suitcase – sunny days with 21°C (70°F) can be delightful.
• A midweight, waterproof coat would be ideal for evenings.
• Rain gear – if not a coat, bring an umbrella.
• Pack shoes that can handle wet, slippery footpaths – boots or sneakers.

Read next… 9 places to visit in Portugal this spring

May and June: What to pack for Portugal

Average temperatures: Highs range from 21-27°C (70-81°F), with nights cooling to 11-16°C (52-61°F). Lisbon usually sits around 22-25°C (72-77°F), while the Algarve is often a touch warmer. Inland areas can already nudge towards 30°C (86°F) by late June.

What to expect 

May is when Portugal starts to warm up with plenty of sunshine and wildflowers. It’s a good time to visit before the summer crowds or to go hiking along the Costa Vicentina. In June, the days get longer with little chance of rain – and while you might be rocking summer clothing, jackets are still essential for after sunset. Juen has religious dates that bring big parties to Lisbon, Porto and other towns.

What to pack in May and June

• Light, breathable clothing – go for cotton or linen shirts, flowy skirts, or chinos.
• A sweater or cardigan for evenings is essential.
• If you’re by the coast, you might like a windbreaker or heavier jacket.
• Bring sun protection – sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
• Swimwear for beach days – just arrive knowing the Atlantic is always cold.
• Comfortable sandals or sneakers for walking in cities.

Read next… Sardines & pimba: Your guide to Lisbon’s Santo António Festival

July and August: What to pack for Portugal

Average temperatures: Highs average 28-35°C (82-95°F), with the Algarve and interior regions often hitting 40°C (104°F) during heatwaves. Coastal cities like Lisbon and Porto tend to be a bit cooler, usually between 27-30 °C (81-86°F). Nights stay mild, ranging from 16-20°C (61-68°F) depending on the region. The Atlantic Ocean keeps coastal destinations cool, especially in the evenings.

What to expect 

This is peak summer – hot, dry and busy with a chance of heatwaves. But it’s also the best time for the beach, non-stop summer events and festivals, and long summer evenings where *sometimes* you don’t need a jacket. Rain is almost nonexistent – so forget bringing an umbrella. Coastal cities like Lisbon and Porto buzz with tourists, while the Algarve swells with beachgoers and Portuguese who migrate south for the August holidays.

My honest recommendation is to avoid visiting Europe from late July until the end of August. During this time, school students are off, and local businesses often shut shop forcing employees to take 2-4 weeks off. That means peak season prices in coastal destinations, and if you’re visiting the city, you’ll find many family-run businesses closed. 

If you head inland, areas like the Alentejo will feel scorching in the middle of the day. You’ll likely only see locals out early mornings or evenings – so mimic them for your sightseeing. 

What to pack for summer in Portugal 

• Light, breathable fabrics – like linen or cotton
• Summer clothing like dresses, skirts or shorts and tank tops or T-shirts
• Portuguese men will wear shorts in summer, but if you go somewhere fancy in the evening, wear chinos.
• Swimwear and a cover-up for the beach
• Sun protection is non-negotiable – high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. The sun here is quite strong, don’t underestimate it!
• A light cardigan or long sleeve for evenings – essential
• Comfortable sandals for day-to-day; sneakers for exploring cobbled streets or hiking
• A refillable water bottle – cities have public fountains, or I often ask a café to refill mine and have never been refused.

Read next… 9 best summer destinations in Portugal

September and October: What to pack for Portugal

Average temperatures: September still feels like summer, with highs of 24-30°C (75-86 °F) and warm evenings around 16-19°C (61-66°F). By October, things cool to highs of 19-24°C (66-75°F) and lows of 12-15°C (54-59°F). A chance of rain makes the days a little humid in Lisbon. This time of year, the Algarve remains pleasantly warm, while northern cities like Porto and inland regions start to feel crisp by late October.

What to expect

September is one of Portugal’s best months – early in the month is when I like to take a summer vacation to the Algarve coast, where humid evening weather feels more Mediterranean than Atlantic. This time of year, the sea is at its warmest, and the weather is still reliably sunny – though the chance of rain kicks in. The kids are back at school, so crowds are thinner, but it’s still busy and buzzy.

By October, autumn is here – shorter days and a chance of rain. I’m based in Lisbon, and in 2025, I found the whole month to be warm, warm, warm – thanks to humidity. We still had a few sunny beach days that hit 27°C (80.6°F), and the evenings were T-shirt weather, which rarely happens in summer.

What to pack for September and October

In September, think light clothing, swimwear, sun protection and a light sweater or cardigan. In October, add jeans, trousers and a light jacket – ideally waterproof. You might start the day with a sweater, be in just a T-shirt at noon, then need that layer again after sunset.

• T-shirts with a light linen shirt to layer
• Shorts or a skirt for warmer days
• Jeans or chinos for later in the season
• Dresses that you can layer a denim jacket over
• Umbrella for autumn showers
• Layers to add for cooler evenings
• Comfortable shoes for city walking and countryside exploring
• In late October, consider a light scarf – gloves and a beanie would be overkill.

November and December in Portugal

Average temperatures: November sees highs of 14-19°C (57-66°F) with lows of 8-12°C (46-54°F). By December, highs drop to 11-16°C (52-61°F) and lows hover around 6-9°C (43-48°F). As you’d expect, Lisbon and the Algarve are milder, while Porto and the North are cooler and wetter. Inland areas can feel much colder with frosty mornings.

What to expect

November and December are when winter is truly on its way. The days are getting shorter, rain is increasingly common, and as the days cool off, the humidity turns from an added layer of warmth to a damp chill. Still, I think if you plan to visit off-season, November and December beat January and February, hands down.

In November, Saint Martin’s summer (São Martinho) falls on November 11, usually bringing a week of sunny, gorgeous weather. Towards the end of the month, festive cheer is in full swing with lights in towns and cities and Christmas markets. I’ve celebrated Christmas here half a dozen times and find the day hovers around 19°C (66.2°F), which is warm enough to sit around outdoors in a dress with tights and a sweater.

What to pack: November and December in Portugal

• Warm layers! Think jeans, long-sleeve tops, thicker sweaters
• A warm, wool or waterproof coat
• Expect rainy days – bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella
• Bring winter accessories – scarf, gloves, beanie
• Waterproof boots or sturdy sneakers for wet, slippery cobblestones
• Some sunny days are warm, so consider lighter layers that you might wear in autumn rather than winter.

Read next… 10 perfect days in Portugal: A fast-paced classic itinerary

Basic packing list for Portugal

This list is designed for 4-7 days in Portugal for all genders, so take from it what you need or desire. It’s designed as a starting point and inspiration to help you pack – and I’ve created a printable, downloadable version that you can grab for free if you sign up for my newsletter (below!).

If you have any specific questions, drop a comment on this post below.

What NOT to pack for Portugal

Just to reiterate what I’ve said above. If you can avoid it, don’t pack…

• High heels – the cobblestones are a genuine ankle risk.
• Activewear for sightseeing – save leggings and gym clothes for the gym.
• Short, floaty skirts/dresses – coastal winds can be strong, year-round

And remember, Portugal is fairly casual and relaxed, so designer bags and labels don’t impress.

FAQs about what to wear in Portugal

Do locals in Portugal wear shorts?

Yes. Obviously, women can get away with shorts more, but Portuguese men do wear shorts in the summer months. It’s too hot not to! In the evening, if it’s cool enough, switch to chinos though.

Is there a dress code for tourists in Portugal?

Definitely not. I’d recommend not wearing activewear out exploring in any European city. In Portugal, no one will say anything, but it’s not like in the United States. You’ll find religious sites are not as strict as in some other countries, but it is respectful to cover your shoulders and knees.

Is it cold inside houses in Portugal?

Yep, in winter it is freezing cold. Many older homes are poorly insulated with single-pane windows. Electricity is super expensive, so most people won’t turn the heating on unless absolutely needed. And by heating, I mean a plug-in heater – few houses have built-in heating. Of course, modern hotels will be different – but if you’re travelling on the cheap, layer up.

What type of plug does Portugal use?

Standard European plugs – plug Type C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with grounding clips). The standard voltage is 230V.

That’s my guide covering what to pack for Portugal. If you’re missing something – don’t stress, you can buy anything you forget or need here too.

Keep reading….

• 10 perfect days in Portugal: A fast-paced classic itinerary
• 14 common mistakes people make when visiting Portugal
• 48-hour itinerary for Lisbon
• How to spend 48 hours in Porto
• Local’s Guide to Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s Famous Flea Market
• The best cooking classes in Lisbon & Porto

The post What to wear in Portugal – packing list and seasonal guide appeared first on Olá Daniela.

I’ve lived in Lisbon since 2018 and have explored most of the destinations on this Lisbon day trips guide many, many times. Whether you choose to drive north, south, east or west, these are the best day trips you can easily do from the capital.

My definition of a day trip is anywhere I can reach by car in 20 to 90 minutes. Public transport might take slightly longer, and I’ve included the best options for each location too.

How to choose your Lisbon day trip

Below I’ll split Lisbon’s day trips into a few categories, starting with the most popular trips – to Sintra or Cascais, and then splitting them into Lisbon nature and beach day trips, Lisbon history-focused day trips, day trips for food and wine lovers, and deeper off-beat exploring.

Lisbon day trips by car, train or guided tour

If you have a car, you can explore pretty much anywhere you like. If you’re reliant on public transport, you’ll be more limited. I find Rede Expressos coaches will take you to most destinations across Portugal though I prefer to take the train. The train can easily reach Sintra, Cascais, Setúbal, Évora, Tomar, and Vila Franca de Xira. Some Lisbon day trips – like a wine tour around Azeitão – will be better explored on a small-group tour, so I’ll share some options with each day trip suggestion, where relevant.

Map of Lisbon’s best day trip destinations

Two most popular Lisbon day trips

Sintra: Palaces, a Moorish castle & mountain magic

How to reach Sintra – 30-minute drive west from Lisbon; or 40-minute train from Rossio Station (I don’t recommend driving if you just visit the historic village).

Sintra is pure magic – a misty mountain town of palaces, gardens and legends just 30 minutes from Lisbon. Once the 19th-century summer escape of Portuguese royalty, this verdant destination is still wildly romantic, with the colourful Pena Palace, mysterious Quinta da Regaleira and medieval Moorish Castle just three of many historic palaces and sights scattered across its hills.

My favourite days in Sintra go beyond the historic village. Wander through mossy forests, boulder-lined trails and hidden viewpoints in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, or continue to Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point. Skip driving! Take the train or join a guided jeep adventure. Don’t miss a warm travesseiro pastry from Piriquita before heading back to Lisbon.

This is Lisbon’s most popular day trip. Some palaces have timed entry tickets so a Sintra day trip prior planning. I have two in-depth guides to help: a 1-day Sintra itinerary, and a list of 30+ cool things to do in the region.

Cascais: Chic marina, beaches and galleries

How to get to Cascais – 40-minute drive west from Lisbon; or gorgeous 50-minute train from Cais do Sodre (it’s one of the most beautiful train journeys!)

Cascais is Lisbon’s chic seaside escape. Over the past century or two, this former fishing village has blossomed into a sun-drenched resort of elegant 19th-century villas and cobblestone lanes with pockets of sandy beach. Royals once summered here, leaving behind leafy boulevards and graceful mansions that now house art museums and cafés.

Spend the day beach-hopping between Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição, shopping fresh produce at the Mercado da Vila, cycling the coastal path to Boca do Inferno’s roaring cliffs, or lingering over seafood rice and vinho verde. Finish with a sunset drive to Guincho Beach or Cabo da Roca.

Read next… 10 perfect days in Portugal: A fast-paced itinerary

Best nature & beach day trips from Lisbon

Ericeira: chilled out surf town

How to get to Ericeira – 40-minute drive north from Lisbon. Slower coach bus with Mafrense from Campo Grande, or join this guided day trip that includes Mafra Palace.

Ericeira is a whitewashed cliffside town where surf culture meets small-town charm. Its cobalt-trimmed houses glow under Atlantic light, framing winding streets filled with cafés, surf shops and yoga studios. As Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve, the laidback is a magnet for international wave riders – yet it manages to hold onto its Portuguese identity.

Start with a flat white and a morning surf, linger over a seafood feast at Costa Fria or a classic marisqueira, then wander the cobbled lanes for an ouriço da Ericeira pastry. End the day with sunset drinks at a clifftop bar, watching the ocean turn gold.

Bonus tip: Combine your trip with a visit to the magnificent Palace of Mafra, a short drive inland, which features a vast Baroque complex. This guided day trip combines the two.

Costa da Caparica: Lisbon’s best beaches

How to get to Costa da Caparica – 20-40 minute drive south from Lisbon, depending which beach you want to explore. Public transport isn’t great – so it’s simpler to use a Bolt rideshare for €10-15 (use this link to get my discount code).

The golden sands of Costa da Caparica stretch for nearly 30 kilometres (18 miles) just south of Lisbon. This sun-drenched playground is where surfers and locals converge (especially on weekends) to escape the city. The namesake town is convenient, but further south towards Fonte da Telha is where the beaches grow wilder, backed by dunes and the fossil cliffs of Paisagem Protegida da Arriba Fóssil.

Mornings often bring traditional fishing boats ashore, which is always a spectacle. For the best seafood lunch, I like Praia Princesa – stay for a dreamy sunset that lasts forever.

Read next… Lisbon’s best beach day trips

Sesimbra: pretty fishing town with stunning beaches

How to get to Sesimbra – 40-minute drive south from Lisbon, or slower options with public buses from Lisbon. You could also take a ferry to Cacilhas, then catch a bus. Google Maps is your bestie.

Sesimbra, just 40 minutes south of Lisbon, is a wonderfully unpolished fishing village and low-key resort town. Steep hills, crowned by a 12th-century castle, descend down to calm seas and golden sands. The city beaches – sat either side of an old fort – are a stone’s throw from the restaurant-loaded historic centre. That means you’re never far from a seafood feast or icy swim.

Adventurous types can kayak to Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo or dive in the Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, while everyone else lingers over ice cream on the main promenade.

Combine Sesimbra with…. exploring the UNESCO World Biosphere of Arrábida Natural Park, it’s neighbour! Or stop in Azeitão on the way there for a wine tasting at José Maria da Fonseca or Quinta da Bacalhôa, famous for their Moscatel dessert wine. Another great detour is Cabo Espichel, a dramatic cliff-top sanctuary nearby, where you can see fossilized dinosaur footprints visible on the rock faces.

Read next… Tile of the day: Sesimbra

Berlengas Islands & Peniche: Raw, rocky islands and a surf town

How to reach Peniche – 75-minute drive north from Lisbon; or take a 90-minute Rede Expressos coach from Sete Rios. Boat trips to Berlengas leave from Peniche (pre-booking recommended).

A trip to the Berlengas Islands is one of Portugal’s greatest coastal adventures. Departing from Peniche, a laid-back fishing town 75 minutes north of Lisbon, boats cross the Atlantic to reach Berlenga Grande, a wild, rocky island wrapped in turquoise water. Hike to the Fort of São João Baptista, explore sea caves by boat, or swim at the island’s tiny golden beach before returning to the mainland.

Back in Peniche, wander the cliffs of Cabo Carvoeiro, watch surfers tackle Supertubos, visit the National Museum of Resistance and Freedom, or feast on fresh seafood at local institution Tasca do Joel. Just be warned: this part of Portugal’s west coast is prone to fog.

Comporta: boujee beach escape

How to reach Comporta – 75-90-minute drive south from Lisbon. You need a private car or transfer.

Comporta, a gorgeous sweep of rice fields, pine forest and endless dunes, is Portugal’s barefoot-luxury escape. Once a sleepy fishing area, it’s now dotted with chic cabanas, beach bars and designer boutiques that still manage to feel understated (but often the prices are higher than the capital).

Mornings might mean horse rides through the paddies or birdwatching in the Sado Estuary, afternoons a long seafood lunch at Sal or Comporta Café, and evenings shopping or sipping wine in Comporta village.

Read next… The average person’s guide to A-list Comporta: Portugal’s luxe beach town

Nazaré: big waves, 7 skirts & sun-dried seafood

How to reach Nazaré – 90-minute drive north from Lisbon; more like 2 hours with a Rede Expressos coach.

There are two seasons to Nazaré: lazy summer days of grilled fish and striped beach huts, and wild winters when colossal Atlantic waves crash into fame. This once-sleepy fishing village still has its old soul – you’ll still see women in seven-layer skirts and traditional boats painted in bright colours.

Ride the funicular from Praia da Nazaré up to Sítio for sweeping ocean views, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, and the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, perched above Praia do Norte. Beneath those waters lies the Nazaré Canyon, an underwater chasm that helps create some of the biggest surfable waves on Earth – drawing international crowds in the winter months. There’s no guarantee of big waves – so watch the surf radar.

➼ Wish someone could shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls to help cut through the noise and plan your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

Best history & heritage day trips from Lisbon

Óbidos: medieval walled village from a picturebook

How to reach Óbidos – 1-hour drive north from Lisbon; or take an express bus called the Rapida Verde (the regional train takes more than two hours). 

What’s the best wedding gift you can imagine? Legend has it that Portugal’s King Dinis gifted the village to Queen Isabel as a wedding present in 1282. Today, it still feels like a royal treasure. Step through the stone gates to find whitewashed houses trimmed in gold and blue and cobbled lanes lined with bookshops and flower pots.

Climb the castle walls for the best views over the town and countryside. Don’t miss tasting the local cherry liqueur, ginjinha, best sipped from a tiny chocolate cup. If you have time, explore deeper with a walking tour.

Sleep in the castle: This gem is a popular day trip from Lisbon, so if you want to see the village without the crowds, consider sleeping in the 14th-century castle for your own royal moment. The Pousada Castelo de Obidos is a dream stay! If it’s out of budget, Óbidos has plenty of cute guesthouses.

Guided day trip from Lisbon: If you have a few days in Lisbon, Óbidos makes for a good day trip. Take a look at this top-rated guided tour that combines the walled village with the towns of Fátima, Batalha and Nazaré.

Évora: Roman temple, wine & a bone chapel

How to reach Évora – 90-minute drive or train south-east from Lisbon. Note: for a day trip, the last train back to Lisbon often leaves quite early! Better to do an overnight stay by train.

A 90-minute drive or train ride east of Lisbon lies Évora, the magnificent, UNESCO-listed capital of the Alentejo region. At its center stands the Roman Temple from the 1st century, the haunting Bone Chapel lined with skulls, and a massive cathedral whose rooftop offers sweeping views over the terracotta-tiled city.

Personally, I think Évora deserves a full weekend itinerary to soak up history and enjoy the Alentejo’s famously relaxed, slow pace. Part of the charm lies in its slower daily rhythm and delicious local cuisine. Don’t miss the ancient Almendres Cromlech, a mysterious circle of stones older than Stonehenge, just outside town.

Read next… Évora is so much fun and I have some in-depth guides with more ideas for things to do, where to shop, where to eat and how to spend 48 hours in the small city.

Tomar: Follow the trail of the Knights Templar

How to reach Tomar – 90-minute drive north of Lisbon; or the train take two hours from Santa Apolónia Station.

Tomar is a city forever linked to the Knights Templar. Founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais as their headquarters, it later became the seat of the Order of Christ – the same order that financed Portugal’s great Age of Discoveries.

Tomar’s star attraction is the Convent of Christ, a vast UNESCO-listed fortress with its famous round Templar chapel and intricate Manueline Window. Beyond the convent, wander the pretty old town, stroll Mouchão Park by the Nabão River, or marvel at the 16th-century Pegões Aqueduct stretching across the valley.

Read next… Guide to Tomar: Portugal’s city of Templar legends

Fátima: a sanctuary of faith

How to reach Fátima – 80-minute drive north from Lisbon; or a direct Rede Expressos coach from Sete Rios.

Fátima is one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites. It was here, in 1917, that the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children, a vision that transformed this small rural town into a global spiritual centre.

At the heart of the sanctuary are the Chapel of the Apparitions and two grand basilicas – one historic, one modern. Beyond the religious sites, there’s little else to see, so I’d pair your visit with a trip to the nearby Batalha Monastery, the medieval town of Óbidos, or the coastal vibe of Nazaré.

Read next… Best day trips from Lisbon for history lovers

Best Lisbon day trips for wine & food lovers

Setúbal: historic port city & market town

How to reach Setúbal – 50-minute drive or easy commuter train south of Lisbon.

I adore Setúbal, a working port city on the Sado River where life still revolves around the sea. Start your day at the Mercado do Livramento – easily one of Portugal’s best markets – where glistening whole tuna or swordfish share stalls with local oysters and colourful produce.

Wander the cobbled streets of the old town, climb to the fortress of São Filipe for sweeping views, and stay for a lunch of choco frito (fried cuttlefish), the city’s signature dish. In the afternoon, I’d escape to the turquoise coves of Arrábida Natural Park and return later for oysters and wine at the Ostras Sobre Rodas food truck.

Read next… My perfect day in Setúbal & Arrábida Natural Park

Azeitão: wine, cheese & artisan azulejos

How to reach Azeitão – 30-minute drive south of Lisbon; or 50-minute public bus.

Azeitão, named one of the UN’s “Best Tourism Villages” in 2025, is famous for wine, tortas (local swee) and its creamy queijo de Azeitão – a gooey, pungent sheep’s cheese eaten by the spoonful.

Visit the historic wineries of Bacalhôa and José Maria da Fonseca, sample the local torta de Azeitão cake, and try your hand at tile-painting at Azulejos do Azeitão.

Day trip tip: Azeitão sits on the inland side of Arrábida Natural Park. You can combine Azeitão with Setúbal, Sesimbra, Palmela or Arrábida – or join one of these guided experiences: private wine and food tour, or tiles and wine history tour.

Palmela: castle, windmills and wine

How to get to Palmela – 40-minute drive south from Lisbon; or either take the train from Sete Rios to Palmela Station, then walk for 40 minutes, or take the ferry to Barreiro then catch a bus.

Palmela is a hilltop town crowned by a striking castle. The medieval fortress, originally Moorish, was captured by the Christian forces in the 12th century and later became part of the Order of Santiago. Climb the ramparts for sweeping views over the vineyards of the Setúbal wine region, the Sado River and the hills of Arrábida.

Inside the castle walls, stop for lunch at Taverna o Bobo da Corte, then wander down to Casa Mãe de Rota dos Vinhos (Mother House) for wine tastings of Palmela’s bold Castelão reds and the sweet, amber Moscatel de Setúbal.

Sleep in the castle: Yes, you can sleep at the 4-star Pousada Castelo de Palmela and wake up feeling like royalty.

Caldas da Rainha: creative city of ceramics

How to reach Caldas da Rainha – 70-minute drive from Lisbon; or 80-minute bus with Rede Expressos.

There’s something romantic about Caldas da Rainha, a small, creative city in central Portugal shaped by healing waters and art. Founded in 1484 by Queen Leonor, who discovered the town’s sulfur springs, Caldas remains the world’s oldest thermal spa still in operation. Stroll the leafy Parque Dom Carlos I, once reserved for patients, and admire its elegant lake and 19th-century thermal hospital.

As you explore the town, look for historic façades and playful, oversized ceramic creatures that are part of the self-guided Bordallo Pinheiro trail. You can visit the Bordallo Pinheiro factory store too (bargains found upstairs). Try to go in the morning to shop at the daily farmers’ market at Praça da República, then end the day at Foz do Arelho, where the Óbidos Lagoon meets the Atlantic in a sweep of golden sand.

Best off-beat day trips from Lisbon (deeper cuts!)

Mafra: mega palace, wolves & wild boars

How to get to Mafra – 35-minute drive north from Lisbon; or catch a coach with Mafrense from Campo Grande.

Palácio Nacional de Mafra has Europe’s longest palatial corridor, stretching 232 metres. Built in the 18th century by King João V during Portugal’s golden age, the Baroque palace holds over 1,200 rooms and a magnificent library of 36,000 books, guarded by bats.

After touring the palace and basilica, trade marble for moss at Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a vast royal hunting park where deer and wild boar roam. Nearby, visit the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre or toast the day at Quinta Sant’ana before heading to the surf town of Ericeira.

Vila Franca de Xira: birdwatching and bullfighting traditions

How to get to Vila Franca de Xira – 30-minute drive north from Lisbon; or 23-minute train from Santa Apolonia Station.

Just 30 minutes north of Lisbon by train, Vila Franca de Xira is a riverside town shaped by the Tejo River and bullfighting traditions. Stroll the riverfront promenade, stop for coffee, and visit the Mercado Municipal – a tiled masterpiece where locals shop for fresh produce.

The town’s early 20th-century bullring still anchors its identity, especially during the lively Colete Encarnado festival each July. Around town, look for azulejo murals, statues, and the Museum of Neo-Realism, which celebrates Portugal’s working-class art. Beyond the streets, wetlands along the Ribatejo estuary attract flamingos, storks, herons and more.

So, in my opinion those are the best day trips near Lisbon. Leave me a comment with your favourite or let me know if I’ve missed somewhere cool…

First published August 3, 2021. Major update November 5, 2025.

Read next… 

• Where to stay in Lisbon: Best neighbourhoods & hotels
• My perfect day in Setúbal & Arrábida Natural Park
• 14 things to do and see in Caldas da Rainha
• Portugal Road Trip: Where to stop between Lisbon and Porto
• Best tile painting workshops in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve
• 22 most beautiful castles in Portugal
• 24 hours in Viseu, Portugal’s pretty garden city
• 16 most beautiful villages and small towns in Portugal
• 48-hour itinerary for Lisbon
• Where to eat in Lisbon
• Where to stop between Lisbon and Seville

The post 18 best Lisbon day trips appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Fall in Portugal offers that sweet spot of late-summer sun and shoulder-season calm. You can still enjoy days at the beach (sans the crowds), and the city streets are calmer as castanha (chestnut) vendors pop up on corners. Better yet, with harvest time happening across the country, you can admire fall foliage in the Douro Valley and join a vindima experience (grape harvest) early in the season, or in November, taste the young wines with chestnuts at São Martinho celebrations.

If you plan to visit Portugal – Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve – in autumn, this comprehensive guide dives into a handful of reasons why autumn here is great – including a breakdown on what the weather is like, what to wear in Portugal in autumn, plus the best things to do each month.

Note! The photos featured in this article were all taken in September, October or November by me.

Why visit Portugal in autumn? Best reasons to visit in the fall

If you travel in September, October or November, you’ll hit the shoulder season, which is often the sweet spot between high summer prices and low-season rain.

Read next… best places to visit in autumn, or my guide to winter in Portugal

Extend the European summer

Forget the scorching 40°C (104°F) days of July and August  – they’re rare, but they do happen! In autumn, temperatures drop to a comfortable range of around 20-28°C (or 68-82°F). That’s still gorgeously warm enough to work up a sweat while enjoying a trek across Lisbon’s seven hills or hitting the hiking trails of the Serra da Arrábida.

Harvest season is ON

Autumn is synonymous with harvest, or vindima, in Portugal. If you’re a food and wine lover, this is the time to visit wine regions like the Douro Valley or the Alentejo. I recommend joining a tour where you actually participate in the grape picking and stomping (usually with a break in the middle for a long lunch). Later in the season, you’ll see chestnuts being roasted on street corners – a sign that São Martinho’s day (November 11) is approaching.

Lower prices & smaller crowds

I’ll admit – the peak season in Portugal is extending. But while September still commands higher prices, October and November will definitely offer better value for accommodation and rental cars. 

Olá to fall foliage

While Portugal isn’t famous for its crazy autumnal colours like parts of North America, there is plenty of foliage that puts on a show. I think the Douro Valley is beautiful any time of year, but it’s particularly stunning in October or November when the terraced landscape turns to vivid hues of red, gold and amber. Up on the northern border with Spain, you’ll find Peneda-Gerês National Park, where you can wander along scenic forest trails carpeted in fallen leaves, through a landscape dominated by oaks as well as pine, holly, and arbutus.

The ocean is still warm

July? The Atlantic is icy, icy cold. But thanks to the summer sun warming the ocean, sea temperatures often peak in September and stay somewhat pleasant through early October. You can still comfortably swim or surf in the Algarve or on the west coast. Just note that the Atlantic is a notoriously cold ocean to begin with, so you’ll have to keep your expectations in check.

Read next… Fall in Portugal: 8 places to visit this autumn

What’s Portugal *really* like in autumn? 

The weather varies a lot from north to south (it’s a long, skinny country after all).

• September: Feels like a continuation of summer – autumn does, after all, only kick in from the autumnal equinox around September 22. Expect hot, sunny days, especially in the south – this is the time of year I take a summer vacation. 
• October: This is when fall starts to creep in. Some years I’ve had hot, sunny beach days as late as October 26, others the crisp air sneaks up sooner. One thing I find is that it’s humid. The locals will dress like it’s autumn, but some fall evenings in Lisbon are warmer than in summer, so I strut about in a T-shirt, sans jacket. The north will be cooler, and you should mentally expect rain, but hope for clear skies!
• November: The transition month into winter. This is when you should definitely pack a waterproof jacket and an umbrella, especially in Lisbon and Porto. That said, the famous São Martinho’s Day (November 11) often brings a short, glorious spell of sunny weather known as Verão de São Martinho (St. Martin’s Summer).

Autumn weather in the Algarve

The warmest destination is the southern Algarve coast. I often travel here mid-September for balmy nights and beach days – this time of year, the ocean is at its warmest! I’ve even escaped for a long weekend down here as late as Portugal’s October 5 bank holiday, and it feels like the true end of summer. While other parts of Portugal are starting to get chilly, the Algarve is still perfect for beach days and coastal hikes. Expect mostly clear skies, with very little rain until late November.

Autumn weather in Lisbon

Lisbon is glorious in autumn – but as with any shoulder season, you roll the dice with the weather. Usually, September is gorgeous; however, this year we did have some late September rain. October is often crisp and clear, although cloudy skies and some occasional, light showers make the air humid, and evenings sometimes feel warmer than summer! Regardless, you’ll need to pack a light jacket or sweater plus an umbrella. Rain is possible in October and becomes more frequent in November. On wet days, take care with the beautiful but notoriously slippery calçada portuguesa (cobblestone sidewalks). Only bring flat shoes with gooooood grip.

This was the final week of October in Lisbon. Monday was balmy, hot T-shirt weather, while Thursday was chilly!

Autumn weather in Porto & the North

The North is where you’ll find the most dramatic change and the most intense autumn colours. Porto is a wetter, cooler city than Lisbon – but the moody vibe is part of the charm. Expect more rain from mid-October onwards. The cooler weather is perfect for touring the Port wine cellars in Gaia, enjoying a francesinha, and taking a scenic train ride through the Douro Valley to see the vineyards in their autumnal glory.

Read next… My guide to winter in Portugal

What to wear in Portugal in autumn

I notice the Portuguese often dress to the season, not the weather – but I’d say the key to packing a suitcase for fall in Portugal is layers. Plus, if you come in September, you’ll need a swimsuit and summer dresses, while November calls for a jacket and umbrella.

• Light coat or jacket: Bring at least a denim jacket or blazer. You’ll only need a warm coat in late November in the North, but a light waterproof layer will save you from the sudden autumn showers in Lisbon and Porto.
• Sweater: Sim, it’s sweater weather – particularly in the North and towards the later half of the season. You might start the day in a sweater, shed it for a t-shirt at noon, and put it back on after dark.
• Raincoat or umbrella: ideally, your light coat might be waterproof too; otherwise, pack an umbrella..
• Layers: Bring layers. That September sundress might need a jacket layer for the evening, or a sunny late October day might turn to sweater weather the next day. In general, two layers – a T-shirt and a jacket – should be sufficient. 
• Trousers: For men, jeans and long trousers are standard in Europe, but if you’re visiting the Algarve in September, you’ll still be fine with shorts.
• Accessories: Never underestimate the power of a scarf – and don’t forget that umbrella.
• Boots or waterproof sneakers with grip: if you’ve seen pictures of Lisbon’s notorious yet beautiful cobblestone footpaths, you’ll understand – difficult in summer, dangerous when wet. 

The best things to do in Portugal in autumn

Now for the fun part – let’s dive into all the best things you can do in Portugal in autumn, month by month, from late beach days to cosy chestnut season. Here’s why it’s one of the best times to travel to Portugal.

Portugal in September: Things to do & places to visit 

September is the golden month – it has the best of summer without the peak crowds (though I’ll admit, people are cottoning onto Portugal for late-summer sunshine). The water temperature is perfect, and the cities are breathable again. I suggest:

• Head to the Algarve or the Costa Vicentina (Alentejo Coast) for sublime, late-summer beach days. European students head back to school, so the thick summer crowds are gone, but the sun is still reliable.
• Surf season kicks off – yes, the swell returns, so it’s a good time for keen surfers to visit spots like Peniche and Ericeira.
• Go for the Vindima – travel to the Douro Valley or wineries across the Alentejo to participate in the grape harvest. Many quintas (wine estates) offer unique harvest programs, including stomping the grapes.

Weather in Portugal in September (average temperatures)

Faro, Algarve: Average highs of 26°C (79°F), with minimums of 18°C (64°F).
Lisbon: Average highs of 26°C (79°F), with minimums of 17°C (63°F)
Porto: Average highs of 24°C (75°F), with minimums of 14°C (57°F)

September events in Portugal

• Chef’s On Fire, Cascais
• Alma do Vinho, Alenquer
• Festa das Vindimas, Palmela
• Feira de São Mateus, Elvas

Find more events in Portugal here.

Portugal in October: Things to do & places to visit 

October is an underrated sweet spot for Portugal-in-autumn travel. The temperatures are ideal for exploration, and the crowds have genuinely thinned out. 

• Explore Sintra’s misty magic – this microclimate is Lisbon’s top day trip, and the often misty weather adds drama and romance to the many palaces like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
• Hike the Portuguese Caminho – milder temperatures make October the perfect time to walk the Camino de Santiago from Porto, passing through stunning northern landscapes. Go early in the month for better weather!
• Madeira Island is gorgeous in October – the island’s subtropical climate means temperatures stay mild year-round. Ideal for dinner outdoors and hiking!

Weather in Portugal in October (average temperatures)

Faro, Algarve: Average highs of 22°C (72°F), with minimums of 15°C (59°F).
Lisbon: Average highs of 22°C (72°F), with minimums of 14°C (57°F)

Porto: Average highs of 20°C (68°F), with minimums of 12°C (54°F)

October events in Portugal

• Birdwatching & Nature Festival, Sagres
• International Puppet Festival, Porto
• Pilgrimages to Fátima
• Feira Nacional dos Frutos Secos (National Dried Fruit Fair)
• AngraJazz, Terceira Island
• Festival Nacional de Gastronomia (National Gastronomic Festival)

Find more events in Portugal here.

Portugal in November: What to do & places to visit

You’ve heard the saying about Saint Martin’s summer? Well, each November São Martinho falls on November 11 – and honestly, the weather around that date is usually brilliant with blue sky and sunshine. Towards the end of the month, Christmas lights start going up, and the cities are buzzing with festive cheer. 

• Celebrate São Martinho (St. Martin’s Day) – On November 11, Portugal celebrates Magusto. The tradition involves tasting the new year’s wine (água-pé) and eating roasted chestnuts (castanhas). Locally, you’ll find little festas in town squares or at restaurants. Or head to a wine-making area, like the small Alentejo village of Vila Alva, when the locals crack open the talhas (terracotta vessels) to taste the season’s wines.
• Chase the monster waves at Nazaré – winter swell starts to arrive on the west coast. Check the surf reports for Nazaré to see if there are any early-season giants on the forecast. Waves can reach record-breaking heights!

Weather in Portugal in November (average temperatures)

Faro, Algarve: Average highs of 19°C (66°F), with minimums of 12°C (54°F). But it does reach up to 25°C (77°F) during the day with around 9 hours of daylight.
Lisbon: Average highs of 19°C (66°F), with minimums of 12°C (54°F)
Porto: Average highs of 17°C (63°F), with minimums of 7.3°C (45°F)

This is the weather in Lisbon during the final week of November. Not bad, hey?

November events in Portugal

• São Martinho or Magusto
• Monchique Walking Festival, Algarve
• Feira Nacional do Cavalo Golegã (National Horse Fair), Ribatejo
• Festival da Batata-Doce (Sweet Potato Festival)
• Marvão Feira da Castanha (Chestnut Fair)

Find more events in Portugal here.

FAQs about autumn in Portugal

Is Portugal worth visiting in October?

Absolutely, yes. If you have flexibility, this is one of the best times of year to visit. You get the benefits of (usually) beautiful weather without the peak summer prices, crowds or extreme heat. The combination of wine harvest activities, comfortable city exploring and late-season beach days is unbeatable.

Do I need to book accommodation far in advance for the autumn?

For September, yes, especially in popular spots like the Algarve, Lisbon and the Douro Valley. For October and November, you can be more flexible, but book any special quintas or resorts in advance.

What to wear in Lisbon in October?

When in doubt, wear jeans and a T-shirt with sneakers or ankle boots to fit in with the locals. In October, add a light jacket like a trench coat or denim layer for cooler days. Sunny October days are super warm, while cloudy ones are humid and mild.

Where is the best place in Portugal to see fall foliage?

I think the Douro Valley is the best location. It’s just such a unique landscape to start with, then when the vines turn deep red and gold, it becomes something else entirely. You can easily jump on the train or (if you’re short on time) join a Douro Valley guided day trip from Porto. For deep forest colours, head north to Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Any questions about what autumn in Portugal is like? Drop me a comment below… or I can help plan your trip with a private call.

Read next…

• Best Festivals & Cultural Events in Portugal
• Food Festival Guide: Best Gastronomic Events in Portugal
• 23 Best Medieval & Historic Events in Portugal
• Sardines & pimba: Your guide to Lisbon’s Santo António Festival
• Devil on the loose: 7 traditional pagan carnivals to attend in Portugal
• 22 most beautiful castles in Portugal
• My 10 favourite Portugal trips in 2024

The post Guide to autumn in Portugal: Where to go, things to do & more appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Each summer, I return to the Algarve to revisit old favourites and uncover new corners of the coastline. The east is where I tend to gravitate – it’s slower and calmer, and the water is warmer than the busy west. Based on years of exploring, here are the very best beaches in and around Tavira.

Praia da Ilha da Tavira (Tavira Island Beach)

From downtown Tavira, you can jump on a small ferry for loose change and reach this island paradise. It’s one of the easiest and most popular sand bars to reach from Tavira. After a short boat ride across the Ria Formosa, you’ll land on a long sweep of soft sand. Amble from the estuary side past a campground and across to the open ocean, where Praia da Ilha da Tavira awaits. 

On this little island getaway, you’ll find a couple of beach shacks that serve food or rent loungers and umbrellas for the day. Beachfront bars Xiri Beach Club and Costabeach bar are good for a drink, but for lunch I’d try one of the restaurants set further back, like Pavilhão da Ilha or the island outpost of a Tavira favourite of mine, Come na Gaveta.

How to get there: Ferries run regularly from Tavira town (summer only) and from Quatro Águas (where there is easy parking). Ferries are organised by Silnido (check the timetable and latest prices with them) and the trip takes about 10-20 minutes. Water taxis are also available if you want more flexibility.

What to expect: Easy island escape from Tavira – A wide sandy beach backed by dunes, sun loungers and parasols to rent, and plenty of cafés and restaurants for a long lunch or sunset drink. Walk further west from the main area and you’ll find quieter stretches.

Facilities at Praia da Ilha da Tavira

Blue Flag beach: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes
Parking: Yes, it is easier to park at Quatro Águas then take the ferry
Restaurant or bar: Loads of options
Toilet: Public toilets
Sunbeds: Yes
Activities: Watersports

Read next… Guide to the best beaches in Lagos, Portugal

Praia de Cabanas (Cabanas Beach) – east of Tavira

Praia de Cabanas is a narrow strip of golden sand set across the lagoon from the fishing village-turned resort town of Cabanas. Very small boats shuttle visitors across the Ria Formosa in a few minutes. Cabanas town (just a 10-minute drive from Tavira) is filled with great eating and laidback crowds. Expect the beach vibe to be quieter too, plus you’ll have more opportunity to find quiet pockets of sand (if you don’t mind walking).

How to get there: From Cabanas’ waterfront at Cais de Cabanas (close to Restaurante O Monteiro), small boats run continuously across the lagoon (just a few minutes). There is almost never a wait. Parking in the village can be tight in the peak of summer, so arrive early. Ferries run from April to October.

What to expect: A long, narrow beach with calm waters, sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, and a couple of small beach cafés. The sea is usually gentle here, making it good for swimming and families.

Good to know: Trek east of the beach to find the more deserted sands of Praia da Casa Branca. If you head west, you’ll hit Praia Cabanas Poente, which has sun loungers and is serviced by a small shuttle owned by two beach resorts – Golden Club and AP Cabanas Beach & Nature.

One summer, I stayed in a private apartment at the former, and the beach access was amazing – next time I’d try AP as the resort looks insanely beautiful and new.

Facilities at Praia da Cabana

Blue Flag beach: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes
Parking: In Cabanas town, then a short ferry
Restaurant or bar: Two restaurants and a kiosk
Toilet: Public toilets
Sunbeds: Yes
Activities: Watersports

Read next… Where to stay in the Algarve: Ultimate guide to choosing your base

How to find wild beaches around Tavira

There are several ways to unlock hidden, deserted beaches around Tavira. If you’re a solitude seeker who doesn’t mind a lack of facilities, there’s so much coastline to explore.

One way to find the best, quiet patches of sand is to take one of the ferry services mentioned on this list and then walk east or west until you find somewhere no one goes. Another is to look for water taxis in town – usually they’re not too expensive. You can ask the captain to drop you somewhere more secluded and exclusive. The final option is to rent a kayak or SUP and take yourself on an adventure where you can pull up wherever you like.

Praia da Terra Estreita (Terra Estreita Beach) – west of Tavira

Wedged on the same sand bar between Praia da Ilha de Tavira and Praia do Barril, Terra Estreita is a narrow island beach that feels wonderfully peaceful and a little off the radar. With just one café and plenty of open sand, it’s the kind of place where you can stretch out without crowds. Spend the day with nothing but sea, sky and dunes around you. After a day in the sun, return by ferry to the cute village of Santa Luzia, which is famously Portugal’s octopus capital. 

How to get there: Ferry boats run from the small fishing village of Santa Luzia across the ria (about 5 minutes) from late April to early October. Once on the island, the walk from the boat to the beach is the shortest of all the options.

What to expect: Golden sand, calm water for swimming, one seasonal beach café serving snacks and drinks and parasols/sunbeds for rent. 

Facilities at Praia da Terra Estreita

Blue Flag beach: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes
Parking: In Santa Luzia town, then a short ferry
Restaurant or bar: One restaurant-bar
Toilet: Public toilets
Sunbeds: Yes
Activities: Watersports

Praia do Barril (Barril Beach) – west of Tavira

Praia do Barril is one of Tavira’s best and most interesting beaches – and one of the few you can walk to in the east. Once the heart of a tuna-fishing community, today its dunes are lined with rows of rusted anchors – the striking “Cemetery of Anchors” – left as a tribute to the fishermen. Here you’ll find a gorgeous, wide beach with endless golden sand and clear water. The anchor graveyard makes it one of the Algarve’s most photogenic beaches.

How to get there: Drive to the uncanny resort village of Pedras d’el Rei (suddenly there’s green grass and houses in the dry, dusty summer weather) and try your luck for a parking spot (there’s a big public lot, but this is a popular beach). Then cross the pedestrian bridge and either walk 15-20 minutes across the salt marshes or hop on the little tourist train that runs to the beach (a fun ride, especially for kids).

What to expect: Long stretches of sand, safe swimming, cafés, restaurants, sunbeds and umbrellas for hire and lifeguards in summer. Despite its popularity, the beach is so wide that it rarely feels overcrowded.

Looking for a nude beach? West of Praia do Barril is Praia do Homen Nu (which translates to Naked Man Beach). There’s a legend about a shipwreck connected to the name, but it is also a wild beach that welcomes naturists.

Facilities at Praia do Barril

Blue Flag beach: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes
Parking: In Pedras d’el Rei at the parking spot, then a 15-minute walk or little train ride
Restaurant or bar: Handful of options
Toilet: Public toilets
Sunbeds: Yes
Activities: Watersports

Praia da Fábrica – east of Tavira

Often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal (let alone Tavira region), Praia da Fábrica is a wild, windswept strip of sand close to the whitewashed village of Cacela Velha. Take a small boat across to reach the beach. After, I’d suggest visiting the charming village – it’s one of my favourites in Portugal. From the village’s cliff-top, you’ll see panoramic views of the Ria Formosa lagoon opening out to the ocean. At 4.30pm my favourite restaurant, Casa da Igreja, opens for late afternoon seafood feasting.

How to get there: From the hamlet of Fábrica, small boats shuttle visitors across the lagoon in minutes. At low tide, you can wade across the shallow water on foot (be mindful of currents and tides). Parking in summer is limited, so arrive early.

What to expect: A vast, natural beach with no built-up facilities. Bring your own shade, snacks and water if you plan to stay long. The sea can also be rougher here.

Facilities at Praia da Fábrica

Blue Flag beach: No
Lifeguards: No
Parking: Near the ferry stop
Restaurant or bar: No
Toilet: None
Sunbeds: No

Read next… Where to eat in the Algarve

Bonus beach: Praia dos Tesos (easy-access family beach)

While I’ve shared the best five beaches to visit around Tavira (above), I thought I’d add Praia dos Tesos to the list. With the Ria Formosa blocking the open ocean, very few beachfronts are accessible by car. Besides Barril Beach (which still requires a 15-20 minute walk), Praia dos Tesos is one that you can easily drive up to, as it sits close to the mouth of the Tavira Passage, set in the gap between Cabanas and Tavira islands. While it’s not the most spectacular sand, it’s super easy to reach and ideal for families.

➼ Wish someone could shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls to help cut through the noise and plan your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

Map of the best beaches around Tavira, Algarve

Extra tips for visiting beaches around Tavira, Algarve

Do you need a car to visit the beaches in Tavira?

Not always. If you don’t have a car, the easiest to reach beach is Ilha de Tavira – which you can access via a ferry from downtown Tavira. Others require a car or short taxi ride to reach the ferry port.

When is the best time to visit Tavira’s beaches?

The high season is July and August, when ferries run frequently and all cafés are open – but beaches can get busy. For warm weather and fewer crowds, late May–June and September–early October are ideal. The ferries tend to run from April to October.

Are Tavira’s beaches family-friendly?

Yes. Most beaches have calm, flat waters and lifeguards during summer, and facilities like sunbeds, parasols and restaurants make it easy to spend a day on the island. Praia do Barril and Ilha de Tavira are especially popular with families because they’re easy to reach and have facilities close by.

Which beach is the quietest near Tavira?

Praia da Terra Estreita or Praia da Fábrica would be the most peaceful on this list. The first has just one café and plenty of space. The second has no facilities at all – just sand, sea and sunshine. If you walk east or west from any ferry drop-off point, you’ll also find stretches of sand where hardly anyone goes.

What should I bring to Tavira’s beaches?

At a minimum bring sunscreen, water, towel, swimwear and a hat. Add to that snacks and an umbrella if you visit less-developed beaches like Praia da Fábrica.

Are Tavira’s beaches accessible year-round?

Yes, though ferry services run mainly from late spring to early autumn. In winter, you may need a private water taxi.

Are you planning to visit the Algarve soon? Beyond the best beaches in Tavira, don’t miss my 7-day Algarve itinerary, and tried-and-tested Algarve restaurant guide.

Read next… 

• Itinerary: My ideal 7-day Algarve road trip
• 14 best things to do and see in the Algarve
• Where to eat in the Algarve
• My favourite towns in the Eastern Algarve
• What to eat in the Algarve
• Best tile painting workshops in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve
• 22 most beautiful castles in Portugal
• 16 most beautiful villages and small towns in Portugal
• The average person’s guide to A-list Comporta: Portugal’s luxe beach town

The post Best beaches in Tavira, Algarve appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Alternatively, head to the north or inland seeking cosy autumn vibes. Think a weekend sipping wine by the fire in the Douro Valley, wandering a misty and mysterious Sintra, or eating roasted chestnuts at hilltop Marvão.

Fall is a season of contrasts in Portugal, so pack a sweater for moody northern mornings and sunglasses for southern afternoons. September, October and November are among my favourite months to explore Portugal as the weather is generally good with sunny or crisp, clear skies. Based on a lot of my personal experiences, here’s where I’d visit to make the most of autumn in Portugal.

Read next… Ultimate guide to autumn in Portugal

Douro Valley, for harvest and fall colours

Best time: late September through November for foliage, peaking in October. Go earlier for potential grape harvest fun.

Autumn in the Douro Valley is harvest time. The “vindimas” begin in early September (sometimes late August, depending on the summer heat) as the terraced landscape comes to life with workers hand-picking grapes on the steep slopes. Wineries open their doors for tours, tastings and long-table harvest lunches, where you’ll see the process up close and perhaps get to pick and stomp some grapes yourself.

By October and into November, those same terraces shift from green to deep gold, copper and plum red. It’s a dramatic landscape that really shifts with the seasons, and while you can take a guided day trip to the Douro Valley from Porto, I’d suggest a slow stay at a dreamy quinta to embrace sweater weather and sip deep reds by a fireplace.

Best things to do in the Douro Valley this autumn

• Join the vindimas (grape harvest) at a local vineyard and stomp grapes the traditional way.
• Board a traditional rabelo boat in Pinhão to see the landscape from the water.
• Ride the Linha do Douro train from Porto to Pocinho – Portugal’s most scenic rail journey.
• Visit a wine estate or three for tastings and cellar tours – try Quinta do Crasto, Quinta do Seixo, Quinta da Pacheca.
• Hike to the São Leonardo da Galafura viewpoint for sweeping views of the valley and river.

Where to stay

• Six Senses Douro Valley – Top-tier ultra-luxe retreat and a bucket-list stay with epic vineyard views
• Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo – Historic 4-star wine estate
• The Vintage House Hotel, Pinhão – Elegant riverside location 
• Quinta da Pacheca Wine House Hotel – Famous for its barrel-shaped rooms and wine experiences

How to get there

From Porto, the Douro Valley is a two-hour drive or a three-hour scenic train ride along the Douro River to Pinhão – check out my Porto to Douro Valley guide suggesting extra stops along the way. Renting a car gives you more flexibility to explore wineries and viewpoints, but the train is excellent.

Read next… Portugal Road Trip: Where to stop between Porto and the Douro Valley

Sintra, for moody, misty fall vibes

Best time: October to December

Sintra is just half an hour from downtown Lisbon, but it’s a world apart in vibe and climate. Kissed by the icy Atlantic Ocean, the Sintra region is almost always 5°C cooler than downtown Lisbon. It’s a place where fog rolls off the ocean and mist gathers around the palaces. Expect moody beach days, atmospheric hikes through Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, and extra fall magic adding to Sintra’s fairytale vibe. 

Best things to do in Sintra this autumn

• Ride the Sintra tram to Praia das Maças through a corridor of autumnal leaves.
• Tour Palácio da Pena and its park, without peak-season queues (though it will still be busy).
• Hit off-road trails in an open-top UMM jeep with Flamingo, and explore foliage across the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
• Hike up to the Moorish Castle, without breaking a sweat, for misty morning views.

How to get there

Sintra is just 40 minutes by train from Lisbon’s Rossio station, with departures every 30 minutes. Driving is possible, but parking is super limited in town – I don’t recommend it if you’re only visiting the historic village. 

Read next… 31 best things to do in Sintra

Marvão, the hilltop Alentejo border village

Best time: during the two autumn festivals

I audibly gasped the first time I saw Marvão, a tiny village and defensive castle set high on a rocky outcrop in the Serra de São Mamede. Autumn or fall is an atmospheric time to visit – from the moment you step out of the car, you’ll spot chestnut trees heavy with those distinctively spikey fruits.

In early October, the Al Mossassa festival celebrates the town’s Moorish origins with markets, music and street performances inside the medieval walls. A few weeks later, November brings the Chestnut Festival, which has been running for more than four decades and celebrates fall produce from the region. Expect plenty of roasted chestnuts, local wines and live music.

Best things to do in Marvão this autumn

• Join the Al Mossassa festival (early October) with markets, concerts and medieval re-enactments.
• Celebrate the Chestnut Festival (early November) with roasted chestnuts, wine, music and local crafts.
• Walk the castle walls for sweeping views across the Serra de São Mamede and over the Spanish border.
• Visit the Municipal Museum, housed in a 15th-century church, to learn about Marvão’s layered history.
• Wander the whitewashed streets lined with granite houses and flowerpots.
• Hike or drive through São Mamede Natural Park, rich in autumn colour.

Where to stay

• Pousada de Marvão – Historic hotel with unbeatable views
• Varanda do Alentejo – Family-run hotel with hearty regional food and views

How to get there

Marvão is best reached by car. From Lisbon, it’s a 2.5-3 hour drive via the A23. There’s no direct train, though buses run to nearby Portalegre. 

Porto, for perfect autumn light

Best time: late October or November

Porto might be my favourite Portuguese city to visit in autumn. I’ve caught the train up from my home in Lisbon in November on a number of different years, and I find the city has such a great fall energy. It’s cooler and moodier, and though I arrive expecting mediocre weather, I’ve often been met with sunny days, soft light that’s beautiful for photography, and a smoky glow from the roasting of seasonal chestnuts on every street corner. It’s a good time of year to explore without the summer crowds and to visit another port wine cellar or two.

Best things to do in Porto this autumn

• Wander the Ribeira neighbourhood at sunset, when the riverfront glows in autumn light and the terraces are filled with people sipping wine.
• Warm up with a tawny port tasting at a Gaia wine cellar on a guided tour.
• Go on a self-guided tile crawl past Porto’s many churches and through São Bento station.
• Buy roasted chestnuts from street vendors.
• Spend an afternoon at the Serralves Museum and Park, where autumn colours transform the gardens.

Where to stay

• Torel Avantgarde – Boutique hotel with art-inspired rooms and river views
• The Rebello Hotel & Spa – Luxe modern-yet-warm hotel on the Gaia side, with amazing views back to Porto’s skyline
• Moov Hotel Porto Centro – Budget-friendly and central pick

How to get there

Porto is served by Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, 20 minutes from the city by metro, bus or taxi. Fast trains from Lisbon arrive at Campanhã station in around three hours.

Baixo Alentejo, for wine, wine, wine

Best time: around November 11 – Saint Martin’s Day!

Summer in the lower Alentejo is hot, so there’s more life in the streets in autumn when the community comes together for festivals and rituals – and almost all revolve around wine. As seasons shift and the harvest is long past, the agricultural region’s many wine-loving towns celebrate by tasting the young wines. 

There’s always a big celebration around Magusto of São Martinho on November 11. Locals mark the day with roasted chestnuts and Jeropiga wine. November brings the Festa da Vinha e do Vinho to Borba. In December, Vitifrades in Vila de Frades celebrates both wine and the Roman heritage of winemaking in clay amphorae, known as talhas, a practice still alive in this corner of the Alentejo. 

Best things to do in Baixo Alentejo this autumn

• Don’t miss the wine events! Visit Borba during the Festa da Vinha e do Vinho (11-16 November 2025), where streets fill with wine tastings, craft stalls and regional food.
• Join Vitifrades in Vila de Frades (5-7 December 2025) for wine and Roman wine heritage.
• Explore Beja, the regional capital, with its medieval castle.
• Wander the whitewashed lanes of Serpa, famous for its cheese and olive oil.
• Stop in Mértola, on the Guadiana River, and explore layers of Islamic and Christian history.
• Join a local Magusto for roasted chestnuts and new wine.

Bucket-list worthy stays in Baixo Alentejo

• Pousada Convento de Beja – A former Franciscan convent turned into a grand hotel
• Herdade da Malhadinha Nova  – Luxury wine estate with vineyards, spa and fine dining
• São Lourenço do Barrocal  – Countryside retreat with design-led comfort and wine experiences

How to get there

You’ll need a car to explore the Baixo Alentejo. From Lisbon, it’s just over two hours to Beja, the regional capital. Public transport is limited, and a rental car gives the flexibility to explore villages, vineyards and the countryside at your own pace.

Algarve, for super late summer sun

Best time: September to mid-October

Portugal has one of the longest summers in Europe, and down south on the Algarve coast, you can chase warm rays of sunshine into early November. October 5 is a public holiday here, and last year I rented a big house with friends and spent the long weekend tanning by the pool, wearing shorts and kayaking around Ponta da Piedade. A last hoorah for summer!

Autumn also brings fun festivals to the south: the Birdwatching & Nature Festival in Sagres (October) attracts nature lovers from across Europe, with guided tours and coastal hikes. In Faro, the Feira de Santa Iria fills the city with food stalls, concerts and fairground rides in late October. While at the end of November, the Festival da Batata-Doce celebrates sweet potatoes in Aljezur.

Best things to do in the Algarve this fall

• Enjoy a final pool or beach day – October often still feels like summer.
• Kayak around the golden cliffs of Ponta da Piedade – I did this tour, and we didn’t even touch the icy ocean.
• Join the Birdwatching & Nature Festival in Sagres (October) for guided walks, boat tours and lectures.
• Chase the party in Faro during the Feira de Santa Iria (late October).
• Catch the sweet potato festival in Aljezur, usually the final weekend of November.
• Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, spectacular under softer autumn skies.

How to get there

Faro Airport is the Algarve’s main hub, with flights from across Europe. From Lisbon, it’s about three hours by car or train to reach the coast. Driving is the easiest way to reach Sagres, Aljezur and coastal trails, but regional trains and buses connect major towns like Faro, Lagos and Portimão.

Peneda-Gerês National Park, to peep leaves and hike

Best time: September and October

Portugal’s only national park, Peneda-Gerês, might be at its prettiest in autumn. The nature reserve, which sits on the northern border with Spain, is filled with oak and chestnut forests that turn shades of gold, amber and deep red in the fall. While summer brings big crowds to the park, autumn is quieter and the trails of Peneda-Gerês are even better after the first rains when some waterfalls start flowing again.

Best things to do in Peneda-Gerês this autumn

• Visit the pretty villages of Lindoso and Soajo, with their granite granaries.
• Drive or walk the N304 scenic route for autumn colours.
• Visit Arado and Tahiti waterfalls, especially after early autumn rains.
• Spot wild horses and deer, or grazing cows, along the remote mountain paths. Keep an eye out for wolves too!
• Walk to Miradouro da Pedra Bela for sweeping vistas over the Cávado River valley.
• Explore the castle at Castro Laboreiro – pack a picnic and take in the sunset.

How to get there

From Porto, it’s about 1.5-2 hours, depending on where you want to visit. Public transport is limited, so having a rental car or joining a guided day trip is essential to explore remote trails, waterfalls and villages scattered across the park.

Madeira Island, to extend the summer

Best time: September – November

When I visited Madeira last October, I still swam in the sea and dined outdoors at night without a jacket. The island’s subtropical climate means temperatures stay mild year-round – yes, it’s called the island of eternal spring for a reason. While autumn had a full grip on Lisbon, we flew to the island and swapped sweaters for shorts as summer was still kicking. The weather forecast sounded cool on paper, but in reality, a thick layer of toasty humidity kept us cosy.   

Best things to do in Madeira this autumn

• Hike one of the amazing levadas – especially Levada do Caldeirão Verde or Levada das 25 Fontes – for lush greenery and waterfalls.
• Or hike the Ponta de São Lourenço trail for dramatic coastal cliffs and ocean views.
• Explore Funchal’s farmers’ market (Mercado dos Lavradores) for tropical fruits and local crafts.
• Taste Madeira wine at Blandy’s Wine Lodge or other Funchal wine cellars.
• Enjoy dinner outside on a terrace in the humid evening air in Funchal or Câmara de Lobos – I loved our meal at Gavião do Ilhéu.

Where to stay

Madeira Island is popular all year, so it pays to book early.

• Belmond Reid’s Palace (Funchal) – Historic and iconic oceanfront luxury hotel that forms part of my Portugal bucket list
• Quinta da Casa Branca (Funchal) – Boutique hotel set in a lush garden estate
• Casas da Levada (Ponta do Pargo) – I stayed at this gorgeous guesthouse set across restored stone cottages with an infinity pool, epic honesty bar and ocean views
• Saccharum Hotel Resort & Spa (Calheta) – Beachside, modern design with pools
• Hotel Quinta do Furão (Santana) – Countryside retreat with cliffside ocean views and a pool encircled by grape vines

How to get there

You’ll fly into Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (Funchal) from Portugal or other European cities. Once on the island, renting a car is the easiest way to reach coastal trails, levadas and remote villages. Buses and taxis are best around Funchal, or the main city is a good base for guided day trips if you want to avoid a rental car.

That’s where to go this autumn in Portugal. Anywhere else I should add to the list? Leave me a comment…

Keep reading….

• Guide to autumn in Portugal: Where to go, things to do & more
• Where to eat in Porto
• It’s worth a flight to Madeira just to eat these espetadas
• 20 best things to do in Évora, the Alentejo capital
• 22 most beautiful castles in Portugal
• 48 hours in Monsaraz
• The average person’s guide to A-list Comporta: Portugal’s luxe beach town
• Best boat tours in Lisbon
• What to eat in the Azores Islands

The post Fall in Portugal: 8 places to visit this autumn appeared first on Olá Daniela.

The islands are surprisingly easy to reach, and you can hop between these nine small worlds – where sometimes it feels like there are more cows than people – with ferries and small planes.

Here I’ll answer some common questions about the Azores and then dive into the character of each island, what you’ll find there, and how many days to spend on each.

What you need to know about the 9 islands of the Azores

First, some facts. The nine islands of the Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal, which mostly means they have their own government and different taxes. The islands are located in the mid-Atlantic and are divided into three groups: eastern, central and western.

The eastern group includes São Miguel and Santa Maria; the central group is made up of Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial; and the islands of the far-flung western group are Flores and Corvo.

Portuguese navigators first discovered Santa Maria Island back in 1427, and settlers from mainland Portugal arrived on the uninhabited islands around 1439. For the past (almost) 600 years, these sub-tropical islands have been Portuguese territory, and the locals speak European Portuguese, with each island having its own slightly different accent.

Where are the Azores located?

They’re in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,500 km (900 miles) west of Lisbon – the perfect halfway point between Europe and North America. Technically, the nine islands are part of Portugal, but geographically they’re a world apart – like a Portuguese Hawaii with cows.

Don’t confuse the Azores for the Canary Islands or Madeira – those two archipelagos are much further south and closer to Africa.

How do you get to the Azores?

You fly. Direct flights take off from Lisbon and Porto daily, usually landing on São Miguel or Terceira, two larger islands. There are also direct flights from the UK and other parts of Europe, such as Denmark, the Czech Republic, Germany and Spain. If you’re coming from North America, seasonal direct flights leave from cities like Boston, Toronto, Montreal and New York.

The Azores has its own airline – SATA – which runs international and inter-island flights. From Portugal, budget airline Ryanair and national carrier TAP fly to the islands – but on my last island-hopping trip, I noticed SATA had the best deal when booking direct. Price-wise, it meant the inter-island flight was practically free, plus it included luggage, so scout around.

Another flight tip is – if you’re flying from North America to mainland Portugal, you might be able to snag a free stopover in the Azores.

Read next… 4-day itinerary for São Miguel Island, Azores

How do you get around the Azores and between islands?

Once you land on an island, you’ll want a rental car. Public transport is limited and not built for sightseeing, and renting a car gives you the freedom to chase viewpoints, visit crater lakes, and get stuck in cow traffic jams. If you can’t drive, the larger islands have great options for guided small-group day tours.

To get between islands, pay attention to the three island groups. The primary way to travel between the islands is with a local SATA flight, but seasonal ferries also run between the five central islands, and one connects the two western islands of Flores and Corvo. 

What is the best time to visit the Azores?

May to October is prime Azores season – the best time for warm(ish) weather, lush landscapes and minimal rain. July and August are the busiest (and priciest), but they’re also packed with festivals, blooming hydrangeas and more chance of sunshine. 

Spring (May-June) is ideal if you want to avoid summer crowds, and winter is quieter, cooler and moodier. In the off-season, it’s harder to island hop as some ferry services stop – but the hot springs hit differently in the cool weather!

Which is the best island to visit in the Azores?

It depends on what you’re into. São Miguel is the easiest to reach, the largest and the most popular. It offers hot springs, crater lakes and enough ‘wow’ moments to fill your camera roll. For mountain and wine lovers, visit Pico, where you can climb Portugal’s highest peak and drink volcanic vinho. Each island offers something different, so there’s no wrong choice. I’ll dive into each character just below.

Suggested multi-island Azores itineraries:

• For first-timers, I’d start with São Miguel and maybe pair it with one or two other Azorean islands like Terceira or Santa Maria. 
• Hop the central triangle – the most popular island-hopping route is in the central group, where you can fly to Terceira, then take ferries between Pico, São Jorge and Faial with ease. 
• If you visit the far-flung Flores, you can take a day trip to Corvo.

Is it expensive to travel in the Azores?

Surprisingly, no – at least not compared to most island destinations. On my last trip in June 2025 (semi-peak season), we paid €75-€150 a night for accommodation and about €140 for a 4-day car rental. Flights from Lisbon to São Miguel, then Terceira and back to Lisbon were €250ish all up.

Once you’re there, food and activities are pretty reasonable. The Azores has different tax rates, meaning food prices and fuel are often comparable to mainland Portugal – sometimes even cheaper. 

If you want to save more, travel outside summer months and book early. You’ll still get the epic views, just with fewer people and more affordable rates. Island paradise without the island price tag.

The 9 Islands of the Azores 

Let’s take a look at the unique character of each island, the local population, and how to get there.

São Miguel – the biggest island

Location & population: Eastern group – largest island in the Azores, around 140,000 people
Main city: Ponta Delgada (the regional capital)
Vibe: Accessible, adventurous and surprisingly diverse
Best for: First-timers, hikers, hot springs, road trippers, lush nature
Days: 5 days or more
Access: Easy – direct flights from Europe and North America

São Miguel is an amazing introduction to the Azores. Most people start here – it’s the biggest island and easy to reach with direct flights. But most importantly, it’s packed with some of the Azores’ greatest hits. Think dramatic crater lakes like Sete Cidades, steaming hot springs in Furnas, black sand beaches, waterfall and coastal hikes, and beautiful tea plantations.

You could easily spend five action-packed days exploring the lush, photogenic landscape without getting bored. Despite being the biggest island, nothing is ever more than 30-60 minutes away.

Read next… Where to eat on São Miguel Island, Azores

Santa Maria – the tiny island

Location & population: Eastern group – southernmost island, ~5,500 people
Main town: Vila do Porto
Vibe: Sunny, quiet and a bit off the radar
Best for: Sunny, quiet escapes and geology geeks
Days: 2-3 days
Access: Medium – direct flights from São Miguel (short hop)

Santa Maria is the Azores’ sunny island. It’s the warmest and driest, with golden sandy beaches (rather than black volcanic sand), and a mellow, slower pace of life. It was the first island discovered by the Portuguese, and geologically it’s the oldest island.

Visit the white sand beach at Praia Formosa, the red desert-like Barreiro da Faneca, and explore little villages. Santa Maria is off the beaten path, so it’s a spot to slow down and avoid the crowds.

Terceira – the patchwork island

Location & population: Central group – third-largest island with 56,000 people
Main city: Angra do Heroísmo (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Vibe: Laidback, historic and festive with unique traditions
Best for: History lovers and relaxed road trips
Days: 3-4 days
Access: Easy – direct flights from Europe and North America

The third-largest Azorean island brings some unique culture to the mix. Terceira is known for its colorful impérios, lively festivals, bull-fighting traditions, deep historic roots, and a meaty dish called alcatra. The island capital, Angra do Heroísmo, is a beautifully preserved UNESCO city with the nickname Little Lisbon, but venture beyond its cobblestone streets and you’ll find volcanic caves like Algar do Carvão, an endless rolling green patchwork of pastures, and dramatic volcanic coastlines and swimming spots.

From Angra, nothing is ever more than 30-40 minutes away by car.

Read next… 3-day itinerary for Terceira Island

Pico – the wine island

Location & population: Central group – around 14,000 people
Main town: Madalena
Vibe: Hiking and wine
Best for: Overnight sunrise hikers, wine enthusiasts, whale watchers
Days: 3-5 days
Access: Medium – direct flights from São Miguel and Terceira; ferry connections between central group

Pico, the mountain island, is instantly recognisable from afar. The second-largest island is the newest, being formed around 300,000 years ago. Pico means peak, and Portugal’s highest mountain – Mount Pico – dominates the landscape. Adventure seekers come to summit the 2,351-metre (7,713 ft) mountain.

But Pico’s volcanic landscape is also all about wine. The island is dotted with UNESCO-listed vineyards growing on lava fields, giving Pico whites a salty, mineral note. Pico is also a top destination for whale-watching, with tours departing from Madalena harbour. Add natural swimming pools and lava tubes for a top island break.

Faial – the sailor’s hangout

Pictures by Cristina from Choice of Magic

Location & population: Central group – around 15,000 people
Main town: Horta
Vibe: Sailors, ahoy!
Best for: island-hoppers and sailors
Days: 2 days
Access: Flights from São Miguel and Terceira; ferry from Pico

Faial’s main draw? Capelinhos – a surreal, moon-like volcanic landscape. The island gained 3km of land in this 1957 eruption, a reminder that the Azores are alive. In summer the island is covered in hydrangeas, and there’s also a stunning caldera crater hike if you’re up for a bit of altitude. Hang out at Horta’s marina where Peter Café Sport is the spot for sailors and globetrotters, who bring a serious vibe to the small city.

Faial is petite but packed with personality and pairs perfectly with Pico and São Jorge for a central group island-hopping adventure.

São Jorge – the cheese island

Location & population: Central group – about 9,000 people
Main town: Velas
Vibe: Cheese and hiking
Best for: Nature fans and cheese lovers
Days: 3 days
Access: Medium – Ferry from Pico and Faial; small airport with limited flights

São Jorge is nicknamed the sleeping dragon, as the island is long with a dramatic landscape. It’s famous for its cliffs and fajãs – flat coastal plains formed by landslides or lava flows. 

If you’re a cheese lover, São Jorge’s namesake cheese is reason enough to visit. Between raw, untouched green landscapes and waterfalls, happy, happy cows graze on pastures that determine the flavour of the island’s sharp, bitey export.

Graciosa – for dwarf donkeys

Location & population: Central group – smallest in the group, around 4,000 people
Main town: Santa Cruz da Graciosa
Vibe: Quiet and a little quirky
Best for: Slow travellers and geology fans
Days: 2 days
Access: Medium – Small airport with flights from Terceira and São Miguel

Graciosa is the northernmost of the central group of the Azores archipelago and is classified by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Here you’ll find whitewashed houses and red Flemish-inspired windmills straight from a fairy tale.

The big draw is the Furna do Enxofre, a massive underground volcanic cave with a sulfur lagoon and an eerie, otherworldly vibe. The other draws for me are donkeys and volcanic wines. Graciosa has a dwarf donkey breed, and you can meet them at the Associação de Criadores do Burro Anão da Ilha da Graciosa.

Flores – the flower island

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Location & population: Western group – around 3,800 people
Main town: Santa Cruz das Flores
Vibe: Wild waterfalls and remote hikes
Best for: Nature lovers and hikers
Days: 3-4 days
Access: Medium

Flores might be the most dramatic island in the Azores – a green, mountainous isle bursting with waterfalls, crater lakes, and flowering cliffs that drop straight into the ocean. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and you come here to hike, swim in natural pools, chase waterfalls, and soak in the remote stillness. 

You’ll want three to four days to see it all and relax, and add an extra day for a day trip by boat to neighbouring Corvo island.

Read my friend Cristina’s guide to Flores on Choice of Magic

Corvo – the remote island

Location & population: Western group – smallest island, around 470 people
Main town: Vila do Corvo (the only town)
Vibe: End-of-the-world remote
Best for: Solitude, day-trippers from Flores
Days: 1-2 days
Access: Hard – small flights or short ferry from Flores (very weather dependent)

Corvo is the quietest, least populated island, and the most off-grid you can get in Portugal. The main attraction is the Caldeirão – a massive volcanic crater that looks like something out of a fantasy novel and is the spot to hike.

There’s not much else here… which is the point. One town, a few friendly locals, cows outnumbering people, and peaceful isolation. Go birdwatching, take gentle walks and breathe out. Most people pop over from Flores for the day, but you could camp or stay overnight.

Extra FAQs about the 9 islands of the Azores

Do you need a car in the Azores?

Yes. Public transport is limited, and many of the best spots are in remote areas. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore crater lakes, hot springs and tiny villages at your own pace. Without a car, you could join private or small-group day tours, or call taxis.

Can you visit multiple islands on the one trip?

Definitely. Many travelers visit 2-3 islands in one trip, especially within the same island group. Ferries and local flights make it doable – just keep weather delays in mind, especially in the western group.

Are the Azores safe for tourists?

Very. The Azores are one of the safest places to travel in Europe. Crime is low, locals are friendly and solo travellers are common. The biggest hazards? Cow traffic jams – take care.

What should I pack for the Azores?

Layers, waterproofs, hiking shoes and a swimsuit – you’ll probably need all four in one day. The weather changes constantly, so think “prepared but casual.” Bring a light jacket even in summer, and don’t forget a power adapter (same as mainland Europe).

Is English spoken in the Azores?

The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist spots. Many locals speak at least some English, but a few basic phrases in Portuguese go a long way and are always appreciated.

That’s my guide to the 9 volcanic islands of the Azores, what you’ll find there, and how many days to spend on each. Any more questions I should answer? Leave a comment…

Keep reading

• 4-day itinerary for São Miguel Island, Azores
• Where to eat on São Miguel Island, Azores
• What to eat in the Azores Islands
• 3-day itinerary for Terceira Island
• Where to eat on Terceira Island, Azores
• 10 perfect days in Portugal: A fast-paced classic itinerary
• 8 best poncha bars on Madeira Island

The post 9 islands of the Azores: what you need to know appeared first on Olá Daniela.

From steamy rainforest pools to oceanside thermal baths, I’ve done the difficult task of soaking in them — more than once — in the name of research, and I have my favourites. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know before you slip into one of São Miguel Island’s mineral-rich baths.

What makes São Miguel’s thermal pools special?

São Miguel’s thermal pools are connected to the island’s volcanic origins. The nine islands of the Azores archipelago sit on a tectonic boundary between the Eurasian and North American plates. Geothermal activity has shaped the landscape of these islands – and continues to bubble to the surface on São Miguel, especially around Furnas and Ribeira Grande.

São Miguel’s hot springs and pools are fed by water naturally heated underground, with the baths commonly reaching temperatures between 30°C and 40°C (86°F-104°F). The waters are rich in minerals like iron, sulphur and silica, and some are said to help with circulation, joint pain and skin conditions.

What makes them truly special is the variety of choice. You can soak in a rust-coloured thermal bath inside a botanical garden, float beneath a jungle waterfall, or feel the Atlantic crash around you in a natural ocean hot spring. Each one has its own character!

Read next… 4-day itinerary for São Miguel Island, Azores

Things to know before you go

Some quick tips for visiting hot springs on São Miguel Island.

• No nudity – Hot springs are mixed gender, and you must always wear a bathing suit.
• Pack a dark coloured bathing suit – the high iron content (especially at Terra Nostra) can stain your swimwear and towels.
• BYO everything: swimsuit, towel, flip flops, water bottle. Some places have towel rental, but it’s better to have your own.
• Expect a sulphur smell – Some pools have that “eggy” scent, but it soon disappears once you’re used to it.
• Shower before and after – Beyond hygiene reasons, a rinse is good for your skin and hair due to the high mineral content.
• Avoid wearing jewellery – some pieces in silver or gold may tarnish. Some hair colours (especially grey) may change too, so take care and avoid getting it wet.
• Book tickets at least one day ahead – especially in peak season. Mornings will be quieter than afternoons or evenings. Rainy or cool days are best!
• Check opening hours – Some springs close mid-afternoon, while others (like Poça da Dona Beija) stay open very late.
• Pay for a locker – lots of people stash their belongings near the pools, but mist and rain frequently come through, so just pay the extra €1-2 for a locker!
• Respect nature – rinse off sunscreen, don’t litter, and (for goodness sake) don’t watch TikToks on your phone with the sound on (I should have splashed his phone….)
• Don’t use if pregnant or with open wounds – check with your doctor if you should avoid thermal pools for any other reason.

No rental car? Join a small-ground tour. To access these pools, you’ll need wheels – but there are a number of guided tours that include stops at thermal springs across the island. I’ve linked a couple below, and suggested some under each hot pool (where relevant).

Best hot springs and thermal pools on São Miguel Island

From spa springs to wild natural parks to ocean pools, here’s where to dip into São Miguel’s thermal springs.

Caldeira Velha 

Close your eyes. Listen to the high-pitched chorus of frogs, the soft rush of water, the layered calls of birds. At Caldeira Velha, you’ll be simmering in warm thermal waters in the middle of a rainforest, buzzing with life. On the last misty morning that I visited, the heady smell of sulphur mixed with that of petrichor as rain droplets bounced off the fuzzy layers of moss all around us.

One of my favourite thermal springs on São Miguel is easily Caldeira Velha. The rocky thermal pools set in an ancient protected rainforest are a full sensory experience. I suggest you start with the upper waterfall pool, where warm water spills over basalt rock into a wide basin. It’s cooler than the others – better for that initial refreshing dip and a cute photo under the warm waterfall. Closer to the entrance, the other two pools hover around 39°C (102°F) – ideal for soaking among Jurassic-sized tree ferns, trailing vines and thick moss, with steam rising all around you.

Tips for visiting Caldeira Velha:

• You must, must book the springs the day ahead – and it does sell out. Book the full ticket to gain access to the pools.
• You can monitor how many spaces each session has left when you book online. When I looked in July, it had sold out three days ahead!
• Go first thing in the morning for the quieter session. I believe they allow 100 people in at a time.
• You have a 90-minute session, then you have to leave.
• This is more of a nature reserve or government-run park. The facilities are therefore limited, so I recommend showing up in your swimsuit.
• You can pay €2 for a locker – show your ticket inside at the interpretation centre.
• After, explore the small interpretation centre to learn more about the island’s geothermal areas, flora and fauna.
• There are only two toilets and two showers, so finish up 5-10 minutes early if you have to get out of there fast.
• Parking is free at this car park. I did notice they have blocked the EN5-2A road between here and the car park at Rota da Água – Janela do Inferno – you have to take a shuttle bus to explore the sights in between, including Lagoa do Fogo.

Nearby: After the springs, you could swing by Salto do Cabrito, a waterfall very close by. From the car park, a round trip takes about 45 minutes on foot.

Address: Park here
Opening times: 9am – 6.30pm daily
Tickets: Book here – Adults €10; Children 7-14 & Seniors 65+ €5; Kids under 6 free
Water temperature: 23ºC – 38ºC (73ºF – 100ºF)

Go guided: Explore Lagoa do Fogo and trek through nature before soaking in the thermal baths at Caldeira Velha on this guided tour. Check your dates here.

Read next… Where to eat on São Miguel Island, Azores

Poça da Dona Beija

At the centre of the Furnas Valley caldera lies a world of geothermal activity, bubbling and hissing its way to the surface. My favourite spring here is Poça da Dona Beija, where entry gains you access to a series of four open-air pools, set within manicured tropical gardens along a creek. 

Each of the pools is around 38-39°C (100-102°F) – the perfect temperature to rest and relax after a day of exploring. The pools have slightly different depths, and one includes a waterfall feature that is fun to immerse yourself behind. But best of all, these pools are open until 11pm, so you can enjoy an evening soak under the stars, surrounded by ferns.

The only negative about Poça da Dona Beija is the strict rules around ticketing – you should book ahead to avoid missing out, but also be aware that there are no refunds or possibilities to change your slot. 

Tips for visiting Poça da Dona Beija

• Be decisive when you book tickets – there are no refunds, and they are strict with timings.
• You can pay for a locker after you arrive.
• The gift shop offers towel rental and will even sell you a bikini (or a souvenir mug)
• Leave time to park – you’re right in Furnas town, so there is not a huge amount of parking nearby.

Address: Lomba Das Barracas s/n, 9675-044 Furnas – Google Maps
Opening times: 8.30am – 11pm daily
Tickets: Book here – Day price €12; after 6pm €16 – children under 6 get a slight discount
Water temperature: 39ºC (102ºF)

Visit at night with a guide: This top-rated evening guided thermal tour from Ponta Delgada to Furnas includes dinner, where you’ll try the famous cozido das Furnas cooked with thermal heat, and a relaxed after-dark dip at Poça da Dona Beija beneath starry skies. Check your dates here.

Terra Nostra Park

This ginormous hot spring is set within the lushest botanical garden in Furnas. Parque Terra Nostra’s massive, iron-rich, orange-tinged pool is fed by a volcanic spring with a temperature that ranges between 36°C – 42°C (97°F – 108ºF). The pool was first built in the early 1780s by American merchant Thomas Hickling. He wanted to create a place of relaxation, and originally, the ‘tanque’ or tank was intended for fishing and boating.

In the 1930s, the rejuvenating iron-rich thermal pool you see today was expanded, and now it’s one of São Miguel’s most popular attractions. More recently, two smaller thermal jacuzzi baths have been built nearby. The water here has a distinctive orange hue, deeper than others, and is rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, iron and silica.

The challenge with Parque Terra Nostra is the short opening hours. This fantastic property is also home to the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, so hotel guests have exclusive use of the pool and gardens outside the public opening hours of 10.30am – 4.30pm each day.

Honestly, it would be a dream to stay at the property, which Condé Nast Traveler called one of the world’s best ‘Green Retreats’ – so see if your dates are within your budget.

Terra Nostra Park has a higher entry fee, but it’s more than a thermal pool. Leave time to explore the expansive exotic gardens. Within you’ll find an avenue of Ginkgo Biloba trees, a bamboo grove, a giant lily pond, camelia gardens, caves and plenty of lush hidden gems and romantic wanders.

Tips for visiting Parque Terra Nostra:

• The orange, iron-rich waters might stain your swimsuit or towel – wear a darker or older one. Don’t take white towels! 
• The thermal pool and gardens are free for guests of Terra Nostra Garden Hotel.
• The visiting hours are very limited: only 10.30am – 4.30pm for the public. Hotel guests have access 24 hours a day.
• Make time to explore the garden before or after swimming in the thermal pool. 

Address: Largo Marquês da Praia e Monfort, 9675-061 Furnas – Google Maps
Opening times: 10.30am – 4.30pm daily
Tickets: Book here – Adults €17; youth or seniors €14.50 (or look at the hotel)
Water temperature: 36°C – 42°C (97°F – 108ºF)

Go guided: No rental car? Join this top-rated guided tour that includes stops at the Gorreana tea plantation, Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, and Furnas. Check your dates here.

Or better yet, this small-group guided tour that carves a lap of the lesser-frequented Nordeste part of the island, stopping at insane lookouts and following old roads before reaching Furnas. Check your dates here.

Octant Furnas Spa

There’s a third thermal pool experience in Furnas on offer at the 5-star Octant Hotel. It’s the sort of space where you book a spa treatment and sip on local tea between dips while wondering how the masses are doing at the more mainstream human soup hot springs.

This beautiful hotel offers a premium and more exclusive hot spring experience, with an indoor and an outdoor thermal pool. Water from the “Quenturas” spring gushes from the earth at 59°C (138°F), which they cool closer to 30°C (86°F) for the pools, using the excess heat for hot water at the hotel. 

If you’re looking for a thermal water experience that offers more than a pool, here you can enjoy a hydrotherapy circuit with Furnas thermal water. It includes a sauna, Turkish bath, aromatic showers, and the two pools – free for hotel guests, or €40 for outsiders (unless you book a massage or treatment).

Sadly, I’m yet to visit the Octant Furnas spa. If I win the lotto, there will be signs – maybe you’ll see me doing woga (that’s water yoga) at this hotel on São Miguel.

Address: Avenida Dr. Manuel de Arriaga, Furnas – Google Maps
Opening times: 24/7 if you stay there
Tickets: Book spa treatments with the hotel (or better yet, check your dates and stay there)
Water temperature: 36°C – 42°C (97°F – 108ºF)

Go guided: This exclusive tour takes you on a tour of the island, ending with a thermal massage at these pools. Bliss. Check your dates here.

Read next… What to eat in the Azores Islands

Ponta da Ferraria (Hot Ocean Pool) & Termas da Ferraria 

At one corner of São Miguel Island, down a very steep hairpin road, these free-to-visit natural volcanic rock pools kiss the ocean and are heated by geothermal power. At this ocean pool, hot thermal water seeps up through volcanic rock, mixing with the waves, for a one-of-a-kind hot springs experience. 

A visit can be chaotic or calm, depending on the ocean. Plus Ponta da Ferraria is all about timing. Go at high tide and you won’t feel the warmth from the thermal spring. So, I recommend going within two hours either side of low tide. My last visit with rough surf meant low tide was even a little cooler, until we found the source and floated near that. It can be a bit of a washing machine experience, but there are ropes to hold onto so you don’t get smacked against the rocks. 

This is one of São Miguel’s most surreal swimming spots, and definitely somewhere for your very Azorean bucket list.

At the same location, you’ll find the Termas da Ferraria, a recently renovated thermal pool set close to the car park. Access to this pool is paid, and while I prefer the free natural pool, if you have young children, I’d recommend this option. The Termas often have sunset music in the summer and a lunch buffet deal that includes pool access as well.

Tips for visiting Ponta da Ferraria:

• Drivers beware: the road down to the car park is incredibly steep, with hairpin turns that aren’t for the faint-hearted. At the bottom, you’ll find plenty of easy parking. Use first gear the whole way up and you’ll be fine
• Check the tides – each day is different and I’d say you want to be within a few hours either side of low tide. Don’t bother at high tide
• The walk from the carpark to the natural pool is mostly paved, but you will need to walk on volcanic rock – quite rough on bare feet, so bring flip-flops or water shoes
• There are change-room facilities and toilets on the path to the free ocean pool
• Near the car park is a café, and the restaurant offers a lunch buffet and thermal pool deal for around €20

Sunset tip: Nearby, Mosteiros is a coastal village with a relaxed vibe and a huge black sand beach. Around Ponta dos Mosteiros, there are also natural ocean pools in the volcanic rock, along with bars where you can knock back grilled lapas (limpets) with a sunset ale. 

Address: Google Maps
Opening times: Natural ocean pool is always open – check the tides; Termas da Ferraria pool is open Wed – Sun 10.30am – 5.30pm
Tickets: Ocean pool is free without limited access; paid pool is on the spot
Water temperature: Paid pool is about 36°C (97°F); the free ocean one is cooler 

Go guided: This top-rated off-road tour takes around the spectacular Sete Cidades volcano rim, you’ll stop for lunch and enjoy a swim at Ferraria. Check your dates here.

This sunset tour takes you for a thermal dip at Ponta da Ferraria, and then a local dinner with a view in Mosteiros. Check your dates here.

Termas das Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande

At a tiny destination near the second city of Ribeira Grande lie São Miguel’s two smallest thermal pools. Fed by hot springs – one at around 38°C (100°F) and the other at 40°C (104°F) – with 8-10 people, they feel full!

The Termas das Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande don’t take reservations, which is fine most of the year when this location attracts more locals than tourists. But in the summer, you might have to wait for space to free up. Due to their small size, these pools get very mixed reviews. If you like soaking in hot water, you’ll have a good time; but if you need entertainment or more than a warm bath, you’ll be done in 20 minutes. 

What sounds cool is the evening experience, where, after 9pm you can enjoy the pools with sparkling wine and volcanic face masks. Thermal baths are especially gorgeous at night with the contrasts of cool evening air and warm water. This location also offers massages with oil, mud and hot stones.

Tips for visiting Termas das Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande:

• You won’t need more than an hour, unless you book spa treatments
• Don’t come expecting a huge area – there are two small pools, so it is all about soaking slowly in peace
• If you want a massage or facial, there’s a spa menu with options
• They have hot and cold showers, plus changing rooms

Address: Ribeira Grande – Google Maps
Opening times: 10am – 11pm daily
Tickets: No reservations – Adults €6; massage and treatments extra
Water temperature: 38°C – 40°C (100°F – 104ºF)

Map of hot spring locations

That’s my guide to São Miguel’s top hot springs. Let me know in the comments which pool is your favourite….

Keep reading

• 4-day itinerary for São Miguel Island, Azores
• Where to eat on São Miguel Island, Azores
• 9 islands of the Azores: what you need to know
• What to eat in the Azores Islands
• 3-day itinerary for Terceira Island
• Where to eat on Terceira Island, Azores
• 10 perfect days in Portugal: A fast-paced classic itinerary
• 8 best poncha bars on Madeira Island

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The post Guide to São Miguel’s hot springs and thermal pools appeared first on Olá Daniela.

This Azores itinerary packs the best of Terceira Island into three days, blending wild nature with history, coastline with cows, and wine with volcanic rock. This road trip itinerary dives into the rhythm of island life, so you can hike lush trails, swim in lava ocean pools, taste local treats, and explore the best of the island at Terceira’s easygoing pace. 

3-day Terceira Island itinerary overview

I think three days on Terceira is the perfect amount of time to explore the Azorean island, its food, trails, and slower pace of life. If you’re in a hurry, you could compress it into two days – or better yet, have a real vacation and slow down the pace to 5-7 days on Terceira Island.

Day 1 

• Drive the scenic north coast, stopping at viewpoints and ocean pools
• Eat at a local restaurant that raises and dry ages its own cattle
• Swim at the incredible Biscoitos natural pools
• Taste volcanic wines at Materramenta
• Take a dreamy sunset boat ride

Day 2 

• Hike the Trilho dos Mistérios Negros (solo or guided)
• Walk the Gruta do Natal lava tube
• Visit Algar do Carvão (if open)
• Explore the west side of the island and its viewpoints (with a rental car, or this half-day tour)
• Taste cheese at a local factory

Day 3 

• Explore the UNESCO core of Angra do Heroísmo, solo or with a walking tour
• Boat trip to snorkel around the Ilhéus das Cabras
• OR introductory scuba session
• Visit Miradouro da Serra do Cume, the patchwork blanket view

Read next… 4 Days on São Miguel Island

Should you rent a car on Terceira Island?

Obviously, a rental car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace – plus, as you can imagine, an island with a population of around 55,000 people doesn’t have the most frequent public transport network. But there are also some good options to explore without a car.

This three-day Terceira Island itinerary has been written with the assumption that you will rent a car. I’ve used both Ilha Verde and Autatlantis car rental in the Azores and have had a great experience with both local companies. I booked both rentals through discovercars.com – a site I use to compare companies and prices – and it was cheaper than direct. I think it meant they gave me an older rental, but I prefer to receive a car with scratches! 

Check your dates for a car rental

Go guided: I’ll include links for some guided day trip options within the article, but I wanted to highlight one that caught my eye – this top-rated, full-day tour manages to tick off the highlights of Terceira Island’s landscapes in just one day, and it’s great value.

Where to stay on Terceira Island

For most visitors, Angra do Heroísmo is the ultimate base – a small, lively city full of charm. I stayed two nights at the Palácio Santa Catarina, a hotel set within a historic quinta dating from 1758 and featuring a panoramic pool. It was a 10-minute walk to the heart of Angra, yet it’s easy to park. 

Another option is the small city of Praia da Vitória, where hotels offer more bang for your buck.

Alternatively, you might opt for a rural farmstay or coastal guesthouse in a smaller village anywhere across the island. I absolutely loved our stay at ALLuar Lodge in Porto Judeu, where each morning began with a homemade breakfast hamper and stunning views of the offshore islets. The seafront property (its saltwater pool and fluffy bathrobes) were only a 10-minute drive from Angra, and our host, Alberto, was fantastic and very caring. I will return!

Check your dates for Palácio Santa Catarina or ALLuar Lodge, OR search all accommodation in Angra do Heroísmo

Read next… 9 islands of the Azores: what you need to know

Day 1 – Northern scenic drive, lava ocean pool swims, & wine tasting

Total driving distance: 52km \\ 75 minutes (Google Maps)

Morning: Arrive at Lajes Airport, drive the scenic north coast

You’ve touched down on Terceira, the Azores’ third-largest island. After landing at Lajes Airport, grab your rental car (you’ll need it to reach the island’s hidden corners), roll down the windows, let the humid sea air in, and set off along the quiet roads of the northeast coast. This stretch is peaceful, lush, and full of little surprises, so take it slow and leave room to wander.

Here are a few scenic stops en route to lunch worth pulling over for:

• Miradouro de Alagoa – A worthwhile viewpoint where you’ll admire unique volcanic cliffs. Wild and windswept, in the best way
• Trilho da Ribeira da Agualva – A short 2km (1.2-mile) forest loop through ferns, trickling waterfalls, and stone bridges. Magical after a bit of rain
• Quatro Ribeiras Beach – A local favourite with natural lava rock pools and turquoise water. Perfect for a quiet dip if the sun’s out. There’s a café by the water, too

Terceira Tip: Stop to photograph impérios – Keep an eye out for these brightly painted religious halls scattered through the villages of Terceira. Each is a mini-masterpiece, like a tiny dollhouse dedicated to Espírito Santo (Holy Spirit). The Impérios star during the Festas do Espírito Santo (mostly in spring and early summer), a centuries-old celebration of faith, community, and charity. During this time, expect music, processions, and free communal meals called Sopas do Espírito Santo. These are unique to the Azores, and there are around 70 on the island, some more beautiful than others.

Lunch: Restaurante A Caneta

A Caneta was my favourite place to dine on the island. The restaurant actually breeds and dry-ages its grass-fed Aberdeen Angus cattle, and the steak here is insane. It’s also a great place to try the island’s famous alcatra (beef stew).

Read next… Where to eat on Terceira Island, Azores

Afternoon: Swim at Biscoitos, taste volcanic wines at Materramenta 

After an epic lunch, backtrack slightly to Biscoitos, a small coastal village famous for two things: wine and volcanic ocean pools.

The natural swimming area of Biscoitos is carved into the black basalt cliffs. A combo of cooled lava flows and concreted zones and steps has turned the craggy landscape into a popular swim spot – complete with multiple sets of lifeguards. The pools vary in size and depth, and I felt like a kid again, staring at the crystal-clear water, watching crabs and colourful fish dart about. Bring goggles or a snorkel!

If you can peel yourself away, make a short drive to Materramenta, a family-run winery that produces volcanic wines in salty air on Terceira, Pico and Graciosa islands. The protected wine region of Biscoitos is super tiny, and here, winemakers mostly grow verdelho and arinto varietals. With the tour and wine tasting, you’ll get to see one of Materramenta’s three Terceira Island vineyards (totalling just 2.5 acres of grapes).

Here, they’ve painstakingly rebuilt some of the vineyard in the traditional Azorean style with volcanic rock walls and built-up bases that trap the heat. At the relaxed tasting, we tried three Azorean whites – one from each island – plus a local style of red called vinho de cheiro (smelly wine) as it’s made from the fragrant American Isabella grape.

You can also visit the Museu do Vinho (Wine Museum) nearby to learn more about traditional winemaking practices on the island.

Afterwards, check into your hotel (as mentioned, I genuinely loved and highly recommend both Palácio Santa Catarina or ALLuar Lodge) and venture out for dinner.

Sunset boat: Get out on the water at sunset and see the island from a new perspective with a wine in hand on this top-rated aquatic experience.

Day 2 – Trilho dos Mistérios Negros Hike, Gruta do Natal, Algar do Carvão, cheese factory & seafood feast

Total driving distance: 75km \\ 1 hour, 45 minutes (Google Maps)

Morning: Misty trail, lava tube, and volcano fun

I confess, we visited Terceira Island during the June Sanjoaninas festivities, where late nights and the slow, relaxed vibe of the island meant we cut one of Terceira’s most enchanting hikes from our itinerary in order to laze by the pool and lean into the holiday feeling. Regrets? None. But when I return, the Trilho dos Mistérios Negros forest trail is top of my list.

This 4.9-km (3-mile) loop winds through a dense, mossy forest and otherworldly volcanic terrain – twisted trees, lava fields, and lush greenery from another planet. The trail takes around 2.5 hours and is apparently muddy, so bring the right shoes.

Go guided: You can trek this challenging trail with a local guide who will share stories and facts, too. Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.

At the car park, you’ll also find the entrance for the Gruta do Natal, a lava tube cave you can walk through in about 30 minutes. The floor is literally lava, and you’ll have to wear a hard hat (necessary due to some low ceilings in the final part). A fun geology adventure.

Nearby, one major site that you’ll have to skip for now is Algar do Carvão, a dramatic volcanic chimney with a subterranean lake.  The entrance is closed for renovations until at least summer 2026, but it’s worth checking their website in case things open up earlier. Instead, you can make a quick stop at the Furnas do Enxofre – a steaming, sulphur-scented field where volcanic gases rise from the earth. A boardwalk trail takes around 15 minutes.

Go guided: You can explore Terceira’s volcanic wonders on a guided lava caves tour that includes plenty of geological facts. Or, join a geologist on a private tour. 

Lunch: Ti Choa

After an active morning, head to this traditional Terceiran tavern for lunch. A budget-friendly tasting menu at Ti Choa gives you the chance to try a few different meaty specialities of the island, or you can just opt for the speciality alcatra.

Afternoon: Forest park, viewpoints, & cheese tasting

The western side of Terceira feels like a whole different island – untamed, wild and wonderfully quiet. Driving by the Mata da Serrata was one of those unexpected surprises for me – within the natural reserve lies this dense, green forest park. Locals were setting up charcoal grills at the public barbeques among the trees, and the whole area felt like a secret retreat. Nearby, find lookouts and a few trails.

Otherwise, backtrack and wind your way up to Miradouro da Serra de Santa Bárbara, the highest point on the island. On a clear day, you’ll see rolling hills, volcanic craters, views of other islands, and the deep Atlantic all around you. 

Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to Queijo Vaquinha, a family-run dairy farm and cheese factory. At the tasting room, you can try a handful of cheeses for free and order cheese boards and simple snacks.

Go guided: Explore the west end of Terceira Island with this top-rated half-day van tour.

Dinner: Beira Mar or Quebra Mar

Terceira Island is surrounded by water, so venture over to the fishing village of São Mateus da Calheta. Here, two no-frills seafood restaurants from the same owner have fresh fish waiting to be grilled and ocean views. Call and book for sunset.

Terceira and its bulls: This Azorean island has a long-standing love affair with bulls, especially during summer when bull-running events (known as touradas à corda) pop up across island villages a few times a week. This unique tradition is deeply rooted in Terceira’s identity. A bull, with brass balls on its horns, is released on a rope through the streets for locals to dodge, taunt, and spectate, using jackets and umbrellas as capes. While it might be a bit stressful for the animal, the bull is never killed. There’s a good explanation of Portugal’s bullfighting traditions (and controversy) here.

Day 3 – Angra do Heroísmo, boat to Ilhéus das Cabras, & Miradouro da Serra do Cume

Total driving distance: 34km \\ 55 minutes (Google Maps)

Morning: Explore Angra do Heroísmo

I’d heard the island’s capital, Angra do Heroísmo, called “Little Lisbon”, so I expected it to be pretty, and it is. The small city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled streets, pastel facades, and leafy plazas. In town, you can:

• Explore downtown streets solo, or on a guided walking tour that weaves in stories, history, and a pastry stop 
• Try the famous Dona Amélia cake at O Forno bakery
• Grab ice cream by the marina at Quinta dos Açores
• Walk through the Jardim Duque da Terceira, founded in 1882
• Visit the Museum of Angra do Heroísmo for a crash course in the island’s maritime past
• Swim at Prainha, a little black-sand beach at the marina
• Visit Olaria de S.Bento, a terracotta pottery workshop on the edge of town

The museum is really worth a visit. It’s set in the Baroque-era Convent of São Francisco, and the permanent exhibition – Do Mar e da Terra: uma história no Atlântico – covers the whole upper floor with information in both Portuguese and English. Plus, it’s only €2 to enter.

For views over town, take a walk up to the Alto da Memória viewpoint for a sweeping look over the terracotta rooftops and harbour of Angra. Or, jump in the car and drive (or jog) up Monte Brasil, a dormant volcano-park that shadows the city. 

Lunch: Tasca das Tias or somewhere in town

Afternoon: Boat trip and snorkel or dive a shipwreck, dairy farm, & one final viewpoint

In the afternoon, make your way to Angra Marina and choose your adventure:

• Hop on a snorkelling boat trip to Ilhéus das Cabras, two wild little islets just off the coast, home to nesting seabirds and dramatic volcanic cliffs. The ride is short and scenic, and you might spot local dolphins
• Or, explore the underwater remains of sunken vessels with an introduction to scuba diving tour. See how marine life makes a new home among the rust and coral in an underwater crater. No experience? No worries – this introductory dive will get you out there. 

To wrap up your trip, make time to swing by the Miradouro da Serra do Cume on the way back to the airport. This might be Terceira’s most famous viewpoint, with vistas of the island’s interior stretched out like a green patchwork blanket of stone-walled fields and farmland. You could take a more scenic route there, passing by more impérios such as the Império do Divino Espírito Santo do Galinho in Porto Judeu and the Império do Espírito Santo de Fonte do Bastardo.

Extra tips for planning your itinerary for Terceira Island

• Terceira Island is fairly small, so nothing is ever too far away if you have a car. If you want to visit one side of the island in the morning and the other side in the afternoon, it’s totally doable
• If you want tables at popular restaurants, you’ll have to call. Call in English, most will have staff who can speak to you, or ask your concierge if you’re shy
• Local Azoreans go for dinner earlier than mainlanders: between 7pm-8pm is most common
• Supermarkets are open on Sundays, but small shops will likely be closed
• Museums are closed on Mondays
• Tipping is not essential, but rounding up the bill or leaving some change is polite
• Pack layers – the weather can shift quickly, so bring both swimwear and a raincoat

Terceira Island weather

If you’re thinking tropical islands, then you’ve not quite understood the Azores. Like the other islands, the Gulf Stream keeps the climate on Terceira Island temperate year-round, with cool, misty winters and warm but not-too-hot summers (think 22-26°C or 72–79°F).

My five days on Terceira Island in late June were brilliantly warm and sunny the whole time, with enough humidity to feel like a sub-tropical summer. But I know from three trips to São Miguel that the forecast can’t be trusted – it’s easy to go from sunshine to drizzle to sunshine in a few hours as clouds pass over the island.

The best months to visit are May through October, but note that August may be too hot and muggy, and you’ll be competing with European students on summer vaycay.

Read next… Where to eat on São Miguel Island, Azores

Will you use this three-day itinerary to plan your visit Terceira Island? Leave me a comment! I’d genuinely love to hear what you get up to…

Keep reading

• What to eat in the Azores Islands
• 9 islands of the Azores: what you need to know
• Azores Itinerary: 4 Days on São Miguel Island
• Guide to São Miguel’s hot springs
• 10 perfect days in Portugal: A fast-paced classic itinerary
• 8 best poncha bars on Madeira Island

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