Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Portugal (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip is a crucial step when considering a move to a new country. It allows you to experience firsthand the culture, lifestyle, and practical aspects of living in Portugal. This exploratory trip can help you make informed decisions about where to live, work, or retire, ensuring a smoother transition into your new life abroad.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Lisbon, then visiting Cascais, Sintra, Porto, and the Algarve region. For a 20-day trip, include additional stops in Coimbra, the Douro Valley, Évora, and the Silver Coast. These itineraries combine vibrant cities, charming towns, and scenic regions to give you a comprehensive overview of Portugal.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city, is known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and affordable cost of living. With a population of around 500,000, it offers the amenities of a big city while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the thriving startup scene, numerous coworking spaces, and the proximity to beautiful beaches. The city is also known for its Fado music, historic trams, and delicious Pastel de Nata.

Travel Tip: Visit the Time Out Market for a variety of local food stalls under one roof.

Cascais

Cascais is a charming coastal town located just a short drive from Lisbon. Known for its beautiful beaches, promenades, and marina, it offers a high quality of life. The town has a population of around 35,000 and is popular among expats for its safety, excellent schools, and outdoor activities such as golfing and surfing.

Travel Tip: Dine at Mar do Inferno for fresh seafood with a stunning ocean view.

Sintra

Sintra, a picturesque town set amidst the pine-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra, is known for its romantic architecture and stunning landscapes. With a population of around 33,000, it offers a tranquil lifestyle with easy access to Lisbon. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the town's cultural richness, numerous hiking trails, and cooler climate.

Travel Tip: Visit the colorful Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is renowned for its historic center, port wine, and the Douro River. With a population of around 237,000, it offers a vibrant cultural scene, a growing startup ecosystem, and a lower compared to Lisbon. Expats and digital nomads enjoy the city's authentic character, friendly locals, and delicious food.

Travel Tip: Visit the iconic Livraria Lello, one of the world's most beautiful bookstores.

Algarve Region

The Algarve region, known for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and golf courses, is a popular destination for expats and retirees. Consider visiting towns such as Lagos, Tavira, and Albufeira. The region offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and a large expat community. It is also one of the safest regions in Portugal.

Travel Tip: Explore the Benagil Cave, a stunning sea grotto, by boat.

Coimbra

Coimbra, a historic university town, is known for its ancient buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant student life. With a population of around 100,000, it offers a mix of history, culture, and youthful energy. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the city's authentic atmosphere, affordable living costs, and central location in Portugal.

Travel Tip: Visit the historic University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and port wine production, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Consider visiting towns such as Pinhão, Peso da Régua, and Lamego. The region is ideal for those seeking a rural lifestyle, with a lower cost of living and a strong sense of community.

Travel Tip: Take a scenic boat tour along the Douro River.

Évora

Évora, a charming city in the Alentejo region, is known for its well-preserved historic center, Roman ruins, and whitewashed houses. With a population of around 55,000, it offers a relaxed pace of life, affordable living costs, and a rich cultural scene. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the city's authentic character and the surrounding countryside.

Travel Tip: Visit the Chapel of Bones, a unique and hauntingly beautiful chapel.

Silver Coast

The Silver Coast, stretching north of Lisbon, is known for its beautiful beaches, quaint fishing villages, and historic towns. Consider visiting places such as Óbidos, Peniche, and Nazaré. The region offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and a variety of outdoor activities. It is also less touristy than other coastal regions in Portugal.

Travel Tip: Explore the medieval town of Óbidos and its well-preserved castle.