It’s no secret that this summer is going to be an extremely busy time to travel to Europe. Still within the top 10 most popular destinations, but further down on the list, is Lisbon, Portugal. While Portugal has certainly been increasing in popularity in current years, it remains a somewhat underrated spot for American travelers.
Here are the best reasons to visit Portugal this summer:
Affordable Prices
Portugal is by far the most affordable country in Western Europe. Compare that to other popular destinations like France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and even Spain, and it’s clear that Portugal is a much better option for budget-conscious travelers.
You can save money on hotels, food, and transportation in Portugal compared to other Western Europe destinations. While summer is still the most expensive time to visit Portugal, you’ll find it’s considerably cheaper than neighboring countries this summer.
Great Cities
Lisbon is one of the top destinations in Portugal. This capital city has lovely and ornate architecture, incredible views, and a laid-back atmosphere. You can explore Lisbon’s hilly streets by tram or check out historic attractions like castles and monasteries.
However, there’s more to Portugal than just Lisbon. Porto is another one of the best cities in the country that should not be missed. Located in the northern part of the country, this city is famous for its port wine. Porto is another beautiful and historic city with tons of things to do.
Great Beaches
Outside of its fantastic cities, Portugal is famous for its beautiful beaches. If you’re searching for a classic European summer getaway, Portugal is the best place.
The Algarve region in the south is one of the best beach destinations in Portugal. Lagos is a fantastic place to base yourself to explore nearby beaches. The beaches in the Algarve are known for their sandy shores and clear blue waters.
For surfers, the beaches north of Lisbon, including Peniche and Ericeira, are best for catching some great waves.
Summer Weather
If you value sunshine, Portugal is the place to be. It’s one of the sunniest countries in Europe. Summers in Portugal are long, sunny, and warm. While it certainly gets hot in Portugal, many parts of the country enjoy a milder climate compared to destinations that are scorching during the summer. Cities like Lisbon and Porto benefit from being on the Atlantic coast, which means they enjoy a nice sea breeze that keeps things cooler.
Great For “Workcation”
If you like to extend your summer travels in Europe, Portugal is a great place to work remotely. Portugal is the top destination in Europe for remote workers due to its affordable prices and fast Internet connection speeds.