Portugal is a country layered with resilience, creativity and soul. Its beauty lies not just in the scenery, but in the stories it tells—of explorers, empires, artisans and ancient recipes passed down through generations.
A Country Rebuilt on History and Handcrafted Beauty
In 1755, Lisbon was devastated by a powerful earthquake, followed by fire and tsunami. The city was painstakingly rebuilt under the guidance of the Marquês de Pombal, introducing one of Europe’s earliest examples of earthquake-resistant architecture and city planning. From that moment, Lisbon rose – literally and figuratively – into the vibrant, cultured capital it is today.
Its famous mosaic sidewalks (calçada portuguesa) were hand-laid in decorative patterns that now line Lisbon’s boulevards, a striking symbol of the country’s artistry and resilience.
Portugal’s layered history is also tied to its global influence as a seafaring nation. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Portuguese ships launched from Lisbon to chart the Spice Route, forging trade connections with India, Africa and Asia. These voyages didn’t just change maps – they changed cultures. Spices like cinnamon and cloves became central to Portuguese cuisine and remain so today.
And then there’s the pastel de nata, the beloved Portuguese custard tart, created in the 18th century by monks at Lisbon’s Jerónimos Monastery. Today, it’s a national treasure, best served warm with a dusting of cinnamon and a view.
Lisbon – Culture, Colour, and Cobbled Charm
Lisbon is a city that rises and falls with the rhythm of its seven hills, where trams rattle through Bairro Alto and the soulful sounds of Fado echo through ancient alleyways in Alfama.
After checking into PortoBay Liberdade, a boutique hotel nestled in a leafy part of the city, I strolled toward the centre under the canopy of trees. The mosaic sidewalks guided me past chic boutiques to Marquês de Pombal Square, eventually revealing the wide-open beauty of Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s grand square along the Tagus River. Lisbon is far bigger and more majestic than expected. Hills are part of its charm and quality walking shoes are a must. After a fast-paced trip through Sintra to Cascais then back to Lisbon, this is where I must now confess, I did not put aside enough time to see this stunning country in its full. I took in all I could – the art, history, culture and the hospitality of the Portuguese people won me over. It is one of the finest European destinations, I will be back!
To help navigate Lisbon’s terrain, locals rely on historic elevators and funiculars. The Santa Justa Lift, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, connects the Baixa district to the ruins of Carmo Convent, with sweeping views over the rooftops. Funiculars like Bica, Glória and Lavra have been transporting passengers up Lisbon’s hills since the 1800s—charming, practical and iconic.
Lisbon Sightseeing Highlights:
Belém District
- Jerónimos Monastery
- Belém Tower
- Monument to the Discoveries
- Pastéis de Belém café
Historic and Cultural
- Santa Justa Lift
- Carmo Convent Ruins
- Lisbon Cathedral (Sé)
- Church of São Roque
- National Pantheon
Museums and Art
- National Tile Museum
- Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
- MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture & Technology)
Scenic Spots
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
- Eduardo VII Park
- Avenida da Liberdade
Shopping and Markets
- Time Out Market
- Feira da Ladra (flea market)
- LX Factory
Castles and Views
- São Jorge Castle
- Tram 28 ride through historic districts
- Tuk-tuk tours or sightseeing buses available via JLW Travel
Sintra – Palaces in the Mist
Sintra is a fairytale town set among misty hills and covered in forest. A UNESCO-listed gem just 40 minutes from Lisbon, it’s home to Portugal’s most romantic architecture.
Sintra Highlights:
- Pena Palace – A colourful hilltop fantasy
- Quinta da Regaleira – Mystical gardens, secret tunnels
- Castle of the Moors – Medieval ruins with panoramic views
- National Palace of Sintra – Twin chimneys and tiled interiors
Cascais and Estoril – Seaside Elegance and Glamour
JLW Travel recommends the elegant Hotel Albatroz, perched above the sea or the luxury of The Oitavos, which features world-class golf, horse riding, a peaceful spa and incredible seafood restaurants. Next door, the iconic Casino Estoril, said to have inspired Casino Royale, adds a splash of Bond-era glamour to this coastal escape.
Cascais and Estoril Highlights:
- Albatroz Hotel and The Oitavos
- Fresh seafood dining along the promenade
- Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth) sea caves
- Casino Estoril – Europe’s oldest casino
Source: The Albatroz Hotel
Douro Valley – Vineyards, Views and River Cruises
The Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, famous for Port wine, terraced hills and timeless scenery.
Douro Valley Highlights:
- River cruising from Porto to Régua or Pinhão
- Port wine tastings at family-run quintas
- UNESCO-listed landscapes
- Olive oil, honey and artisan produce
Source: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Porto – Soulful Streets and Storied Wines
In the north, Porto is full of character and colour. From tiled train stations to wine lodges and bookshops, this is a city with heart.
Porto Highlights:
- Ribeira District – Colourful riverfront
- Livraria Lello – One of the world’s most beautiful bookstores
- São Bento Station – Stunning tile murals
- Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
- Dom Luís I Bridge – Designed by a student of Eiffel
The Algarve – Sun, Sand and Seaside Charm
In the south, The Algarve dazzles with rugged cliffs, sea caves and whitewashed villages.
Algarve Highlights:
- Benagil Cave by boat
- Ponta da Piedade clifftop walk
- Towns like Lagos, Tavira and Albufeira
- Fresh seafood, almond cakes and chilled vinho verde
Let JLW Travel Tailor Your Portugal Experience
From boutique city stays to dreamy river cruises and beach retreats, JLW Travel offers tailor-made travel across Portugal. Whether you’re seeking local flavours, history, culture or guided group tours, we’ll make your journey seamless and unforgettable.
✈️ Tailor-made travel – curated just for you
🏨 Boutique and luxury accommodation – handpicked
🚘 All transport, sightseeing and meals – arranged seamlessly
📍 Local guides and exclusive experiences – elevate every step
Fully Escorted Tours Available with Our Preferred Partners:
JLW Travel proudly works with the best in the industry for Portugal:
- Insight Vacations – Premium escorted tours with local specialists
- Trafalgar – Immersive group travel with Be My Guest experiences
- Collette – Classic touring with thoughtful inclusions
- Luxury Gold – High-end small group touring with VIP access
- APT – Luxury river cruising on the Douro and beyond
- Scenic – All-inclusive river cruising with 5-star amenities
- Avalon Waterways – Contemporary, flexible river cruises
- Tauck – Seamless luxury journeys across Portugal
- Back-Roads Touring – Small-coach, off-the-beaten-path itineraries
Contact JLW Travel today to plan your bespoke Portugal escape or secure your place on one of these incredible guided tours.