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Portugal

Portugal is Europe at its sunniest: azulejos, pasteis de nata, Douro wines and the cliffs of the Algarve, all 2h30 from Paris.

Region
Europe du Sud
Circuits from
890 €
Ideal duration
10 days
Best season
March-July, September-October
Flight
2.25-2.5h

Why Portugal on an organized tour?

Only a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Paris, Portugal offers Europe at its brightest. Lisbon and its azulejo streets, Porto and its vinho do Porto cellars facing the Douro, Sintra and its romantic palaces sprung up in the forest, the Alentejo and its white villages standing still in the cork plain: each region has its own personality, its own flavours and its own monuments.

The organized tour makes sense here: the distances between Lisbon and Porto are significant, local transport requires anticipation and a guide transforms a train station covered in azulejos into a living history lesson. It's the best way to discover Portugal without stress, with mastered logistics and the feeling of going to the essentials.

When to go to Portugal?

The best times are spring (April to June) and the late season (September to October). Temperatures are mild, the sites are less crowded and prices are more reasonable. Summer (July-August) is beautiful but very busy, especially in the Algarve. Winter remains mild (15°C on average in Lisbon) and pleasant for lovers of cities without tourists.

January★★★☆☆
8°-15°C100 mmShoulder season
Jour de l'An (1er janvier)
February★★★☆☆
9°-16°C85 mmShoulder season
Carnaval (dates variables, fév.-mars)
March★★★★☆
11°-19°C53 mmHigh season
Semaine Sainte (Pâques, dates variables)
April★★★★★
12°-20°C68 mmHigh season
Jour de la Liberté (25 avril) · Fête du Travail (1er mai)
May★★★★★
14°-22°C54 mmHigh season
Foire du livre de Lisbonne (mai-juin)
June★★★★☆
17°-26°C16 mmHigh season
Fêtes de Saint-Antoine et Festa dos Santos Populares (13 juin) · Jour du Portugal (10 juin)
July★★★★☆
18°-28°C4 mmHigh season
NOS Alive festival (Porto, début juillet) · Super Bock Super Rock (Lisbonne, mi-juillet)
Affluence maximale dans les grandes villes et à l'Algarve. Réservations indispensables plusieurs mois à l'avance. Températures élevées à Évora et dans l'intérieur.
August★★★☆☆
19°-28°C6 mmHigh season
Assomption (15 août)
Mois le plus touristique de l'année. Lisbonne et Porto très chargées. Algarve saturée. Prix au maximum. Risque d'incendies de forêt élevé dans l'intérieur.
September★★★★★
18°-26°C33 mmHigh season
Vendanges dans la Vallée du Douro (septembre-octobre)
October★★★★☆
15°-22°C101 mmHigh season
Jour de la République (5 octobre) · Web Summit à Lisbonne (début novembre)
November★★★☆☆
12°-18°C128 mmShoulder season
Toussaint (1er novembre) · Restauration de l'Indépendance (1er décembre)
Novembre est le mois le plus pluvieux de l'année à Lisbonne. Circuits culturels restent agréables mais prévoir un imperméable.
December★★★☆☆
9°-15°C127 mmShoulder season
Immaculée Conception (8 décembre) · Noël (25 décembre) · Marchés de Noël à Lisbonne et Porto
High seasonLow seasonShoulder season

Budget: how much does a tour in Portugal cost?

Portugal remains accessible compared to other destinations in Southern Europe. A meal in a local tasca costs 12 to 18 euros, a room in a 3-star hotel 80 to 150 euros per night in Lisbon and Porto. Organized tours of 9 to 10 days start at around 890 euros per person excluding flights. The euro is the national currency: no exchange is necessary from France.

LevelBudget
Budget70 €/day
Mid-range130 €/day
Comfort280 €/day
Portugal tour
Organised tour 10–14 days, from
890
Local meal: ~15 €Local transport: ~2 €/day

Must-see cities

Lisbon and Porto are the two engines of a Portuguese circuit, but the country really reveals itself between the two. Sintra and its fairytale palace, the Douro Valley and its terraced vineyards, Évora and its Roman temple, Óbidos and its flowery ramparts draw a territory of unsuspected richness.

LisbonneTour start

Lisbonne

3-4 days

Lisbon climbs its seven hills between the Tagus and the Atlantic, with a series of cobbled streets, azulejo facades and miradors (miradouros) from which the city stretches out to the estuary. The yellow tram 28 winds through medieval Alfama, the Jerónimos monastery watches over Belém and the terraces of Bairro Alto come alive until dawn. A charming capital 2h30 from Paris, accessible and surprising.

Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO)Alfama district and São Jorge CastleTram 28 and Miraduros (Graça, Santa Luzia)National Museum of Ancient Art and MAATPasteis de Belém à la Manteigaria
Sintra

Sintra

1-2 days

30 minutes from Lisbon, Sintra rises like a fairytale setting: the yellow and red Palácio Nacional da Pena crowns a forest of hundred-year-old pine trees, while the Quinta da Regaleira hides caves and an initiatory tower in its romantic garden. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape, Sintra is best explored for half a day from Lisbon or as an overnight stopover.

Palácio Nacional da Pena (Multicolored Castle, UNESCO)Quinta da Regaleira and its initiatory wellCastle of the Moors (medieval ruins)Palácio de Monserrate (Romantic Gardens)Historic village and its specialties (travesseiros, queijadas)
PortoTour start

Porto

2-3 days

Porto seduces without trying to please: the Ribeira, its colourful houses tumbling down towards the Douro, the São Bento train station covered with 20,000 azulejos, the vinho do Porto cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia just opposite. Awarded several times as the best European destination, the city has been able to reinvent itself without losing its working-class soul and its generosity.

Ribeira and the quays of the Douro (UNESCO)São Bento Station and its monumental azulejosPort wine cellars in Vila Nova de GaiaLello Bookshop and Cedofeita districtDom Luís I Bridge and Panorama from Serra do Pilar
Vallée du Douro

Vallée du Douro

2 days

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unfurls its terraced vineyards on the steep schist of the Alto Douro. A river cruise from Porto reveals quintas sleeping by the water, winegrowers' villages suspended halfway down the slope and an ochre light in the late afternoon that alone justifies the detour. September's harvest is a spectacle in itself.

Porto-Régua-Pinhão River CruiseTerraced vineyards (UNESCO) and wine quintasVillage of Pinhão and its train station tilesWhite Port Tasting in the CellarsHiking the vineyard trails in the fall
Coimbra

Coimbra

1-2 days

A university city since 1290, Coimbra vibrates to the rhythm of student fado that nowhere else can you hear so pure. The University (UNESCO) dominates the upper town with its golden Jesuit library, its azulejo amphitheatres and its clock tower. Descending towards the Mondego, the alleys of the Baixa district reveal a lively city, far from the tourist clichés.

University of Coimbra and Joanine Library (UNESCO)Coimbra A and Coimbra Fado (male tradition)Monastery of Santa Cruz and its Royal TombsMachado de Castro MuseumSerralves Park and Botanical Gardens
Évora

Évora

1-2 days

Surrounded by medieval ramparts in the heart of the Alentejo, Évora is a UNESCO-listed city-museum: a first-century Roman temple in the city centre, a Gothic cathedral, a Chapel of Bones (where the walls are covered with human bones), and a square lined with white houses with ochre borders. The Alentejo cuisine here is superb, between migas, açorda and Alentejo wines with generous tannins.

Roman Temple of Diana (1st century AD)Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)Gothic cathedral and cloisterHistoric centre classified UNESCOAlentejo market and gastronomy (migas, wines)
Óbidos

Óbidos

1 days

This fortified medieval village, given to the Queen of Portugal as a wedding gift in 1282, has remained intact in its twelfth-century ramparts. The white streets streaked with blue and yellow, the purple bougainvillea that spills over the roofs and the castle-turned-pousada make it one of the most beautiful villages in Europe. To be seized in the early morning, before the tourist buses arrive. Local speciality: ginja (cherry with alcohol) served in a chocolate cup.

Medieval ramparts of the twelfth century (rampart walk)Rua Direita and white houses adorned with flowersCastle-pousada de ÓbidosGinja d'Óbidos in a chocolate cupChurch of Santa Maria and its azulejos interior
Lagos (Algarve)

Lagos (Algarve)

2-3 days

Lagos reveals the cultural face of the Algarve, far from the mass beach resorts. The Ponta da Piedade, an ochre sandstone promontory carved by the Atlantic in spectacular arches, caves and needles, is one of the most photographed landscapes in Portugal. The old town retains its 15th-century fortifications, its São Sebastião church with azulejos and its authentic Portuguese animation.

Ponta da Piedade and its sandstone cliffs and archesPraia Dona Ana and hidden cliff beachesHistoric centre and fifteenth-century rampartsMunicipal Museum and Escravatura (Slave Trade)Kayak or boat trip to the sea caves

Photo gallery

Tom Byrom on Unsplash
Tom Byrom on Unsplash
Farnaz Kohankhaki on Unsplash
Farnaz Kohankhaki on Unsplash
Dimitry B on Unsplash
Dimitry B on Unsplash
mana5280 on Unsplash
mana5280 on Unsplash
Sergei Wing on Unsplash
Sergei Wing on Unsplash
Afonso Vieira on Unsplash
Afonso Vieira on Unsplash
Rui Amaro on Unsplash
Rui Amaro on Unsplash
Bernd Dittrich on Unsplash
Bernd Dittrich on Unsplash

Typical itineraries

These routes are educational examples to give you an idea of what is possible. They are not for a specific product. Use the questionnaire to find the tour that suits you.

Le grand classique : Lisbonne, Sintra et Porto

9 daysmars-juin, septembre-octobre
Lisbonne
3 nights
Sintra
1 night
Óbidos
1 night
Coimbra
1 night
Porto
2 nights
From ~1,200
Sample itinerary
culturearchitecturegastronomiephotographie

Grand tour : du Douro à l'Alentejo

13 daysseptembre-octobre (vendanges), avril-mai
Porto
2 nights
Vallée du Douro
2 nights
Coimbra
1 night
Óbidos
1 night
Lisbonne
3 nights
Sintra
1 night
Évora
2 nights
From ~1,700
Sample itinerary
vinculturepatrimoinegastronomiedecouverte

Portugal culturel et Algarve authentique

11 daysavril-juin, septembre-octobre (éviter juillet-août pour l'Algarve saturée)
Lisbonne
3 nights
Sintra
1 night
Évora
2 nights
Lagos (Algarve)
4 nights
From ~1,400
Sample itinerary
balneaireculturefamilleslow-travelpatrimoine

Practical advice

Formalities and visa

French nationals do not need a visa or passport to enter Portugal. A valid national identity card is sufficient. Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. No vaccinations are mandatory. In 2026, it is recommended to check your measles coverage before departure.

Getting around

Transfers are usually included in organized tours. For the self-employed, the railway network (Comboios de Portugal) efficiently connects Lisbon to Porto in 3 hours via the Alfa Pendular. Rede Expressos buses serve the Alentejo and the Algarve. Car rental is recommended for the Douro Valley and the Alentejo: the landscapes are experienced at your own pace.

Culture and uses

The Portuguese are discreet and hospitable. Service is not automatically included in restaurants: a tip of 5 to 10% is appreciated. The saudade, the bittersweet melancholy that permeates fado, can be felt everywhere: in the autumn light on the Douro, in a fado singer in Alfama, in the view from a miradouro at sunset.

Safety and risks

Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. The main risk in summer is forest fires: scrupulously observe the fire bans between June and September in wooded areas. Common crime is very low. Normal vigilance against pickpockets in the dense tourist areas of Lisbon.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a visa or a passport to go to Portugal when you are French?

No. Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. French nationals can enter and stay freely with a simple valid national identity card. A passport is also accepted but is not mandatory. No prior formalities are required.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_French_citizenshttps://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/portugal/
When to go to Portugal: when is the best time?

The golden months are April-May and September-October: mild temperatures (19-26°C in Lisbon), moderate crowds and affordable prices. June remains pleasant before the summer rush. July-August concentrates the maximum heat and record attendance (especially in the Algarve), with prices at the top. Winter (November-January) is mild but rainy, ideal for urban cultural tours at low prices.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climate_of_Lisbonhttps://www.evaneos.fr/portugal/
What budget should I plan for a tour in Portugal?

Count between 70 and 130 euros per day all inclusive (3-star accommodation, meals, travel, tickets). A 9-day organized tour starts from 890 euros per person (excluding flights). A Paris-Lisbon return flight costs between 60 euros (low season) and 220 euros (high season). Everyday life is reasonable: a meal in a local tasca costs 12-18 euros, a tram ticket 2 euros.

https://www.evaneos.fr/portugal/https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Lisbon
Is Portugal a safe country for tourists?

Yes, Portugal is regularly one of the safest countries in the world (top 5 of the Global Peace Index). The Quai d'Orsay classifies Portugal as on normal vigilance. Violent crime is very rare. Remain vigilant against pickpockets in the very touristic areas of Lisbon (Alfama, Chiado) and Porto. In summer, scrupulously respect forest fire bans: fires regularly claim victims.

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/portugal/
How long does the flight from Paris to Lisbon take?

The direct flight from Paris (CDG or Orly) to Lisbon (LIS) takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. There are also direct flights from Lyon, Bordeaux, Toulouse and Nantes. TAP Air Portugal, easyJet, Ryanair and Air France operate the route. Porto (OPO) can be reached from Paris in 2 hours 30 minutes. Faro (Algarve) in about 2 hours 45 minutes.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humberto_Delgado_Airporthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_S%C3%A1_Carneiro_Airport
Do I need vaccines to go to Portugal?

No vaccination is required to enter Portugal. The country is part of the European area and has a health level equivalent to France. It is recommended to be up to date on the DTP. In 2026, a resurgence of measles is reported in several European countries: check your vaccination status before departure.

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/portugal/
What currency is used in Portugal?

Portugal uses the euro. No exchange required from France. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, including in small shops and restaurants. ATMs are numerous in the cities. Some local markets and neighborhood tascas still operate in cash, bring some cash.

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Lisbon
How many days does it take to visit Portugal?

A classic Lisbon-Sintra-Porto tour can be enjoyed in 8 to 10 days. To include the Douro Valley and the Alentejo, allow 12 to 14 days. A long weekend (4-5 days) is enough for an immersion in Lisbon alone. If you add the Azores or Madeira, plan an extra week: these archipelagos alone deserve a dedicated trip.

https://www.evaneos.fr/portugal/
Can you do Portugal as a family with children?

Yes, Portugal is excellent for families. The beaches of the Algarve with their calm waters in the coves, the fairytale palaces of Sintra, the Douro River cruise and the Lisbon tram enchant children. Avoid July-August for inland cities (heat) and prepare comfortable shoes for the cobbled alleys. The Portuguese are very welcoming to children.

https://www.evaneos.fr/portugal/
What are the must-try culinary specialties in Portugal?

Pasteis de nata (caramelized cream tartlets, born in Belém) are the national symbol. Bacalhau (salted cod) is prepared in 365 different ways according to tradition. Francesinha (croque-monsieur with spicy Port sauce), seafood cataplana in the Algarve, açorda alentejana (bread, garlic, coriander, egg) and wines from Douro, Alentejo and vinho verde from Minho complete a generous and affordable gastronomic picture.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal
Organised stays

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