Trip to Portugal. Advice? Experiences? (1 Viewer)

[Ilov80s]

So spring of 2017 or 18, I am going to spend about 10 days in Portugal. I'm not sure why we chose Portugal. It looks pretty, we like wine and that's about it. Anyone been? Anyone have thoughts, experiences, recommendations?

Don't try to talk me out of Portugal. I've been to a bunch of other European places, so Portugal is the destination. I didn't see an existing thread, if there is one, link it to me and we can shut this one down.

TIA

 

[comfortably numb]

Lots of family there been there several times. Was there last 3 years ago and plan to head back next July.

If you're heading in the spring you'll wanna go south (Algarve) for the beaches as the beaches further north may still be a tad chilly.

Being Portuguese,  I am obviously biased but the country is very beautiful and lots to see and do. It doesn't get the clamour like the other big European countries but in the summer the country balloons with tourists from said bigger Euro countries. 

Did you plan to stay in 1 location for all 10 days? Or split the 10 days in a few areas?

Since Portugal entered the 21st century they actually have good roadways and such so when we used to travel from the south to the north to go see family it used to be a 20 hour excursion.  Now it's about a 5 hour tour.

You will have no traffic whatsoever and will be able to head to alot of places with little to no tourism. 

 

[Ilov80s]

Lots of family there been there several times. Was there last 3 years ago and plan to head back next July.

If you're heading in the spring you'll wanna go south (Algarve) for the beaches as the beaches further north may still be a tad chilly.

Being Portuguese,  I am obviously biased but the country is very beautiful and lots to see and do. It doesn't get the clamour like the other big European countries but in the summer the country balloons with tourists from said bigger Euro countries. 

Did you plan to stay in 1 location for all 10 days? Or split the 10 days in a few areas?

Since Portugal entered the 21st century they actually have good roadways and such so when we used to travel from the south to the north to go see family it used to be a 20 hour excursion.  Now it's about a 5 hour tour.

You will have no traffic whatsoever and will be able to head to alot of places with little to no tourism. 

How's the language situation? My English is ok, I can speak so-so Spanish and French. Am I going to get by everywhere with English? Will the Spanish be more useful? Should I learn some Portugese before going?

 

[Ned]

One word....

picadinho

You will thank me later. 

 

[comfortably numb]

You should be fine for the most part. Obviously the bigger cities will be easier and most younger or middle aged Portuguese have some basic English skills. 

It won't hurt to brush up on Portuguese and yes Spanish will help you get by.

If you plan to move stay in 1 place and do day trips I can give you some ideas. If you plan to do 2/3 nights in different areas I can offer some better suggestions that way.

Plan to rent a car? When you say we....any kids? With another family or couple?

 

[comfortably numb]

One word....

picadinho

You will thank me later. 

Although, it would be very different there than what you have had.

Kinda like going to Italy and getting a pizza. Looks nothing like what the delivery dude brings to your house on Friday nights.

 

[jon_mx]

English in Lisbon is all you need.  People super friendly and the city is beautiful.  You will get use to walking up hills quickly.  We lucked out and our trip was around their huge festival for St. Anthony which is June 12-13 every year.  Big parades, everyone cooking out on the streets, music and dancing everywhere. Lots of fun for families and adults. 

 

[Ilov80s]

Thanks so far. Plan is to do 2/3 days in a few places. We haven't decided on renting a car, but we might. I've rented and drove in other Euro countries so I'm open to it. It will be 6-8 adults, no kids. All friends and family. All are into food and drink. I'm into history, others are in for shopping. We split up or compromise, so open to any kind of activities or sight seeing. Hills or heavy walking isn't an issue, maybe even a plus. 

 

[comfortably numb]

What airport are you departing from?

Are beaches a must?  Meaning do some or all of you expect to spend a couple days at the beach/beachtown? Or wouldn't care if you missed beach all together?

 

[Ilov80s]

What airport are you departing from?

Are beaches a must?  Meaning do some or all of you expect to spend a couple days at the beach/beachtown? Or wouldn't care if you missed beach all together?

Wouldn't care if we missed the beaches. We love the beach, but that's not why we are flying to Portugal. The trip will be early April do I don't even really expect it to be beach weather. What is the weather like in spring?

We would be originating from Detroit. 

 

[jon_mx]

June was a tad warm.  80's mostly and maybe touching into the low 90's at times.  April should be very pleasant.  

 

[comfortably numb]

Small tidbit for April

Easter is a big holiday there. On Sunday lots of places will be closed. I personally would avoid it if possible as even flights might spike for the holiday. Wouldn't say its a deal breaker just something to keep in mind.
2017 Easter is 4/17 and 2018 Easter is 4/1

Also, 4/25 is their Independence Day

If beaches aren't THAT important you don't HAVE to make a 2/3 day trip to the Algarve. While it is very nice it's not the same in April as it would be in July anyway.

 

[cstu]

Drugs are decriminalized in Portugal.