Our 12-day adventure in Portugal took place in April, a month when the weather can be unpredictable. We experienced a mix of cool temperatures and occasional rain, but overall, it was a fantastic time to explore this beautiful country.
Arrival in Lisbon and the Journey to Porto
We flew with Iberia, stopping in Madrid before landing in Lisbon. After a smooth arrival, we rented a car and embarked on our drive to Porto. Along the way, we made a pit stop in Obidos—a charming town that’s definitely worth a visit. This quaint village is filled with delightful shops and cozy eateries, making it an ideal spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the local culture.
Exploring Porto and the Douro Valley
In Porto, we settled into a comfortable 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment we found on Airbnb. Porto immediately won us over with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture.
The day after our arrival, we ventured into the Douro Valley, where we spent a memorable day at Quinta do Crasto. The winery tour was incredible, and the full lunch provided was a culinary delight. The drive through the valley was breathtaking, though I must mention that the roads are quite winding, so be prepared for a bit of an adventure!
On Day 3, we joined a free walking tour of Porto, which was an excellent way to see the city through the eyes of a local. https://www.hiportowalkingtours.com/ We capped off the day with dinner at Porta 4, an intimate restaurant where the chef prepares your meal right in front of you. It’s a small, private venue, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time. Trust me, it’s
worth it! https://linktr.ee/porta4
The Algarve: Sun, Sea, and Scenic Views
After three wonderful days in Porto, we headed south to the Algarve. Our base for this part of the trip was Casa Luisandra, a charming boutique B&B in Luz. The accommodations were lovely, and the hospitality was top-notch. https://casaluisandra.com/om-oss/
We had our hearts set on a boat tour along the Algarve’s stunning coastline, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate, and the waters were too rough for a safe excursion. Instead, we visited Fortaleza de Sagres, a historic fortress with breathtaking ocean views, and enjoyed a delightful dinner at Restaurante Reis—a spot we highly recommend for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.
One of the highlights of our time in the Algarve was a photo shoot at Camillo Beach with Garrett Walsh. Garrett is an Irish photographer who speaks English fluently, and he was fantastic to work with. The beach itself is stunning, with its golden sands and dramatic cliffs, making it the perfect backdrop for our photos. https://algarvephotography.com/
Lisbon: The Grand Finale
Our final stop was Lisbon, where we stayed at the Hyatt Regency. The hotel exceeded our expectations with its spacious suites, complete with a kitchen and in-room washer/dryer—a much-appreciated convenience after days of travel.
In Lisbon, we had a remarkable dining experience with a local host, Luis, who treated us to a meal that was both authentic and delicious. https://www.withlocals.com/host/luisc5145fdb34/
We also enjoyed dinner at Solar Dos Nunes, an affordable Michelin-rated restaurant located right in the heart of the city—a must-visit for any foodie. https://www.solardosnunes.net/
To round off our time in Lisbon, we joined a walking tour that allowed us to take in the city’s rich history and vibrant neighborhoods.
Final Thoughts
Our 12 days in Portugal were filled with unforgettable experiences, from the scenic drives and delicious meals to the warm hospitality and beautiful landscapes. It’s a country that offers something for everyone, and we can’t wait to return. Whether you’re a fan of historic cities, stunning coastlines, or world-class wine, Portugal has it all. Traveling with friends made the trip even more special, and we left with memories that will last a lifetime.