We invite you to follow the paths and traces of other travellers from the past: Romans, Celts, Visigoths, Moors and Christians – navigators, historians, discoverers have all left their mark on the Iberian nation. It was they and the beautiful culture and people of Portugal of today who turned this piece of land into one of the most exciting and intriguing countries in the planet. Now Portugal can leave a mark on you; an unforgettable memory long to be cherished – a personalised trip to Portugal designed by our passionate team of travel advisors at Lugarex, a unique and local travel agency.
There is no better way to get to Portugal than by interacting with friendly and knowledgable locals who are eager to share their life tales and stories with you. We work only with top professional tour guides, a reduced group of individuals who will undoubtedly enhance your journey by providing insider access – after all, it is all about who you know! Experience Lisbon’s sensual beauty and its vibrancy, stroll through its streets and sing their fados, learn about the rich history, travel by tram, gaze upon the sunsets over the rooftops of the Alfama. Get seduced by Porto and its historic centre, the sumptuous gastronomy and its world-renowned wine, and by the charismatic locals. Lose yourself in the beautiful corridors of Unesco World Heritage Sites in Tomar, Belém, Alcobaça or Batalha. Travel to Cabo de Roca, the most westerly point of mainland Europe or reach out to the end of the world at Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of Portugal. Visit Sintra, wherewith its Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira; you’ll feel like you have stepped into a fairy tale. Discover the finest example of a Portuguese walled city and traditional town at Obidos. Feel nature in its purest state at Ponta da Piedade or go hiking among the granite peaks of the Penada-Gerês National Park. Navigate the canals of Aveiro and enjoy a ride in a moliceiro (a type of boat unique to Aveiro). Or, simply laze peacefully on sandy islands fronting calm blue seas.
Are you also a great gourmet? ‘Petiscos’, ‘Pastéis de Nata’, Bacalao, ‘Francesinha’… are just a few examples of the range of possibilities to taste great dishes of Portuguese cuisine. Indulging in the Portuguese gastronomy means experiencing the richness of the country’s generous coastline and fertile countryside.
If you like to wake up to the buzz of a city, the tranquillity of cobblestone villages, the captivating beauty of medieval castles or the sound and view of exteriors bathed by the Atlantic Ocean – we will find the accommodation that is best aligned with your needs and preferences. Whether you are into stars, luxury boutique, resorts, refurbished castles or mansions – you are guaranteed to feel welcome and cared for when staying at our preferred hotels and lodging partners. Our hotels are always strategically and safely located and vetted by our team of experts.
With pleasant weather almost year-round, you can experience first hand the charms of the country, one that has as much beauty on the outside and what you see, as it does in the inside and everything that it will make you feel. With Lugarex’s customised tours and travel experiences and in the company of passionate, friendly and knowledgeable local guides you’ll be able to immerse in the culture and discover the history, unique architecture and cinematic scenery. Moreover, you’ll learn about the traditions, folklore and culture and the contributing factors that led to the Portugal of today.
Time is precious and helping you to make the most of yours is part of our commitment. Once we have planned the best possible travel route, our private drivers and high-end vehicles will accompany you during your adventures, your comfort and safety, always our priority. By selecting the best combination between private transfers, fast-speed trains or domestic flights, the programme that you will follow during your Portuguese journey will guarantee maximum optimisation of your time in the most comfortable of ways. We also serve the adventurous ones, those seeking self-driving road trips or who simply like to do things on their own. Setting up the right travel experience, one that fits your exact wishes and ideas, or those of your group, can be a difficult task – we aspire to make the process seamless and straightforward.
If you are dreaming of a place that thicks most, if not all, boxes and that awakens each one of your senses, follow our guide and discover Portugal today. If you can dream it, Lugarex, your local travel agency, will make it happen. We just can’t guarantee that you will want to go back home!
Discover the fantastic experiences that await you in Portugal, contact us and we will design your tailor-made trip.
Soulful songs, delicious meals, stunning buildings…the list of Portugal’s cultural beauty is endless.
Small wonder the country has 17 UNESCO World Heritage properties, including the historic center of the northern city Porto. And, whether you like music, art, history, architecture or food and wine, cultural experiences in Portugal are easy to organize with Lugarex’s tailor-made tours.
Picturesque tile in Alfama neighborhood, Lisbon
Architecture and art combine across the country, with Manueline, baroque and Romanesque styles reflected in churches, castles and other buildings and public spaces. An added touch comes from the typical Portuguese tiles, which you can spot on your travels, decorating spaces with anything from beautiful symmetrical patterns to traditional pastoral and religious motifs. Portugal is also a delight for epicureans, who can try some of Europe’s finest examples of cheese, olive oil and wine, with meals and tastings at family restaurants, artisan producers and vineyards along the way. And a bite of a Portuguese custard tart (called ‘Pastéis de Belém’) in the country that witnessed its creation is another unmissable experience. In Lisbon, Castelo São Jorge and its 11 towers and more than 1,000 years of history is a must-see for visitors. Or how about the World Heritage Site of the Jerónimos Monastery, which took a century to build? The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, with its 16,000 pieces of ancient and modern art, is a great museum to visit. Or why not reflect on the city’s 18th-century Pombaline architecture, a symbol of its re-birth after the great earthquake of 1755? And there’s no better way to end your cultural tours around the capital than by listening to some emblematic fado music over dinner in the city’s Bairro Alto. Meanwhile, two essential stops for culture buffs are Coimbra and Sintra. The former, a medieval town in central Portugal, is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, with its stunning baroque library and 12th-century cathedral. The latter, a millennial town in the Greater Lisbon area, is the location of myriad palaces and castles, where the extraordinary episodes of Portuguese history are crystallized in both the architecture and décor. Portugal’s endless list of cultural spots and experiences mean you can pick and choose what you’d like to see or do. Or why not leave it to travel specialists Lugarex to create a seamless and unique cultural tour of Portugal, especially for you? Contact us for more information on how we can prepare tailor-made cultural experiences in Portugal for you!
When the sun is shining, there’s no better place to be than Portugal. A refreshing breeze from the Atlantic Ocean combines with warm temperatures to create an ideal location for beach dwellers, water sports lovers, and leisure seekers alike.
Wooden footbridge to the beautiful Praia Camilo beach near Lagos
If you’re looking for tailor-made beach holidays to Portugal, Lugarex will use its local expertise to create a unique experience for you, adding a few relaxing days of sun, sea and sand to some sightseeing in Lisbon and Porto. Or if you prefer an unforgettable summer trip to Portugal, why not let Lugarex take you to some of the country’s most spectacular seaside locations? The southern region of the Algarve is the perfect destination for a beach vacation in Portugal. A warm climate all year round means the sun is always shining on the Algarve’s long sandy beaches and hidden coves dotted around the coast, many of which wave the European Blue Flag as a symbol of their quality. And remember, you don’t have to spend all your time on the beach. You can also contemplate the ocean from your hotel, as you dive off a luxury yacht, from the golf course or over a dinner of the freshest seafood you can find. Lugarex also provides you with the option of visiting the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores, in the Atlantic Ocean, where pristine beaches combine with natural sights that include amazing plant life and volcanic landscapes. And while relaxation, water sports and time well spent in the sun might be key elements of your beach trips to Portugal, don’t forget that great food and drink, local visits with knowledgeable guides, and a warm welcome from friendly locals is also part of the experience. Let us create a memorable experience of Portugal’s beaches for you, presenting the perfect combination of sun, sea, sand and sights, all in one.
When traveling, don’t you find you often spend too much time looking for places to eat and drink? You couldn’t possibly go home without trying this dish or sampling that drink, but there’s just one problem. Where do you start?
With such a long list of Portuguese dishes and tipples that you just have to try, why not let travel experts Lugarex set up some of the best culinary tours of Portugal for you? Our knowledge of authentic food and drink experiences in Portugal mean we have some great options available to you.
Boat trips on the Douro River
Petiscos are small plates made for sharing, making them the perfect format for an authentic night out, touring Lisbon’s bars with one of Lugarex’s experienced guides. From salt codfish (bacalhau) in its many guises and fresh clams to tasty cheese and cured meats and mouthwatering chouriço sausage, grilled in front of your eyes on a clay dish. Are you hungry yet? A visit to the city of Porto, with its infamous fortified wine, dovetails perfectly with a one-day Douro Valley wine tour, where not only will you see the wonders of the region’s terraced vineyards but also try a variety of wines at source. Lugarex can set up a personalized winery tour, tailor-made transport options to and from the area, and even an alternative view of the landscape from a boat on the Douro River. Lets Go! While eating the food is great, how about a chance to prepare it too? Ask us about organizing some personalized cooking workshops for you and your family. Not only will you hone your culinary skills, but you’ll also be able to wow your friends and family on your return. Every visit, every morsel and every mouthful make your experience and understanding of Portugal that little bit more authentic. So come with us, and sip and savor your way through this amazing country. Contact us for more information on Portugal Culinary Tours!
A gourmet journey through Lisbon
The best Portugal wine tours
A true cooking tour of Portugal
Portugal receives children with open arms. Families are welcome in a wide variety of locations, can vacation in a temperate climate in many parts of the country, and take part in plenty of fun activities.
A family walks hand in hand at sunset
As your expert travel curator, you just need to tell us what you and your kids love to do and Lugarex will find the place in Portugal for you to do it! As you look forward to your family trip to Portugal, here’s what our experience tells us they will love. Kids love places to run, play and have fun. And Portugal has plenty of those! In addition to many beautiful natural parks, the country also has dedicated theme parks that focus on water, combining aquatic animal shows with amazing water slides. There are also several venues for animal and nature lovers, with horse riding, rope walking and other outdoor activities. Natural history, science and art, both ancient and modern. A museum dedicated to football at the Benfica stadium in Lisbon. Or what about an interactive journey into the history of the Portuguese capital’s emblematic 25 de Abril suspension bridge? There are plenty of places to feed hungry young minds that can be woven into your guided tours of Lisbon with experienced local guides. Cycling trips, whether urban tours or mountain bike trails, will appeal to adventurous youngsters, as will water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding. The whole family can experience a family vacation to remember on some of Portugal’s sun-kissed beaches. Or what about a sailing lesson, or at least a boat trip, where you might catch sight of some amazing marine life? Other things that might be new to your children are Portuguese lessons or Portuguese cookery workshops. Or maybe they can tell you about something they’ve always wanted to try. You just have to pass that information on to us and we’ll do the rest! And remember, at Lugarex, we can help you experience traveling to Portugal with children in a stress-free way. If you need a room big enough for all the siblings, we’ll find it. If you have small children and lots of walking is a no-no, we can organize a panoramic tour with a driver. And if you need the right store to buy some family essentials, we’ll know where it is. Contact us to find out more how we can help you and your family travel to Portugal.For fun
For the mind
For the body
For first time
If you visit a country whose borders have not changed since the 12th century, it will come as no surprise that you will feel surrounded by history.
But it’s one thing to notice ancient buildings, beautiful palaces and ornate churches, and another to be guided around them by people who are truly passionate about their story.
When you decide to plan your vacation in Portugal with travel designers Lugarex, not only will you get a luxury stay, authentic experiences and some of the very best adventures; you will also access the history of Portugal through its buildings, landscapes and people.
The subway initiation well of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra
Thanks to our experienced and knowledgeable guides, historical tours in Portugal with Lugarex are an education. Not that you’ll be sitting in the classroom or forced to read a textbook, though! With us, you will experience the history of Portugal first hand. Share the views of the voyagers as they set out to the New World in the 16th century. See where the Celtic, Iberian and Lusitanian tribes roamed in the early days of the land we now know as Iberia. Walk in the footsteps of the Romans, from the ruins of temples and mosaics in Conimbriga to the Roman artefacts at the Teatro Romano museum in Lisbon. And see the influences in the architecture and language of the Muslims of Al-Andalus, who ruled large parts of Portugal from the 8th to the 11th centuries. A visit to Sintra will bring you to castles and palaces from the 8th, 15th and 19th centuries, all together in the same place, providing not just a window into Portuguese history but also the architectural styles that inspired the nation. Or how about a visit to Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal as we know it today? A destination that is easy to reach from Porto, let us organize a day trip for you to discover the 12th-century town, its 13th-century castles and medieval squares. Such a long and rich history needs time to enjoy. So make the best use of your time by planning your historical tours in Portugal with Lugarex. Whether it’s ancient history or recent history you’re interested in, we can help you enjoy the story of this fascinating country.
Art is often a key part of a visit to a European city. And Lisbon and Porto are no exception.
If you’re hoping to visit some art galleries and museums during your stay in Portugal, travel curator Lugarex can organize art-focused tours and museum visits so you can appreciate some of the finest pieces in Europe.
Lisbon has many different museums, where you can contemplate music, architecture and even football. But if it’s art you’re interested in, let’s see what we can recommend…
Famous Carmo church with its beautiful Azulejo art in Porto
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum holds 16,000 pieces of ancient and modern art, including examples from Ancient Egypt. Meanwhile, the MNAA is one of Portugal’s most popular art galleries and its collection includes works by Portuguese artists such as Sequeira or Gregorio Lópes, as well as the Europeans Tintoretto, Van Dyck, and Bosch. The Berardo Collection, just a stone’s throw from the architectural marvel of the Jerónimos Monastery, is another unmissable visit, with works of modern art by the likes of Picasso, Liechtenstein and Pollock, to name but a few. Portuguese art from the 19th century to the present day is showcased at MNAC, and MAAT brings together art, architecture and technology in two buildings in a large complex on the banks of the Tagus River. And for those looking for art expressed in other ways, how about the MUDE Design and Fashion Museum? Furniture, clothing, and other pieces abound, including those by famous names such as Philippe Starck, Vivienne Westwood, and Christian Dior. In Porto, the Serralves Museum holds an extensive collection of modern art and is also home to temporary exhibitions. Meanwhile, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis is Portugal’s oldest public museum, where prints, antiques, ceramics and, most importantly, sculptures can all be contemplated. And don’t forget, on our art-focused tours, not only will our expert guides take you to the big galleries and museums. We can show you some of Lisbon or Porto’s famous street art. Or take you on a visit of the buildings that are works of art in themselves. And why not let us help you discover smaller art galleries where you might purchase something to take home with you? There, your list of art galleries and museums is starting to take shape. Get in touch with your expert travel designers at Lugarex, so we can harness our expertise to help you discover the creative side of this fascinating country.
Jewish history and heritage in Portugal can be seen in myriad manifestations, whether in street names in former Jewish quarters, memorials to historical events, or small signs on buildings that only those in the know can show you.
So if you wish to discover more about Portugal’s Jewish history and heritage, why not let travel curator Lugarex create a tailor-made visit for you?
Not only will we take you to all the key locations during your Jewish-focused visit to Portugal. We will also provide you with experienced guides who can shed a light on the story of the Jewish people in the country.
Belem Tower, Lisbon
Many Jews fleeing persecution during the Second World War fled to Portugal and settled there. Others took advantage of the country’s strategic position to leave on ships to the Americas. But did you know that Jews were present in Portugal many hundreds of years before then? The Sephardi Jews resided on the Iberian Peninsula for centuries before their expulsion from Spain in the 15th century. Many were merchants, traders and diplomats and, indeed, when ordered to leave Spain by the Spanish crown, Portugal’s Jewish population grew. It was not long, however, until they were ordered to convert to Christianity or leave Portugal too. Persecution, deportation and emigration ensued. Today, a Jewish heritage tour in Portugal must include a visit to the area around the Alfama neighborhood and the location of Lisbon’s first synagogue and the city’s former Jewish quarter. Or how about visiting the memorial to the Lisbon massacre of 1506? If you’re planning on visiting Porto, don’t miss the newly opened Holocaust Museum, the first of its kind in the Iberian Peninsula. In addition to an immersive and emotional experience of the 20th century in Europe, the museum also highlights the efforts of the Portuguese citizens who helped many Jews escape to a new life. So as you can see, Jewish history and heritage in Portugal is a long and fascinating story. Now, you just have to let Lugarex help you discover it.
Anyone looking for a luxury tour of any Southern European country will encounter amazing history, beautiful landscapes and great food. And Portugal, in the westernmost part of continental Europe, is no exception.
Add to that a great climate for much of the year, a fascinating history of seafaring and great voyages, and unique cultural traditions, and you have the ideal destination for a luxury travel experience.
So, what should you aim to see on your tailor-made holidays to Portugal?
It all depends on taste, of course. And we look forward to discussing your preferences with you during our initial conversations. Moreover, as expert travel curators, Lugarex can suggest some unmissable destinations for anyone looking for tailor-made holidays to Portugal.
Lisbon, the nation’s capital, is a must-see. A place where visitors are warmly welcomed by friendly locals, proud of their stunning architecture, authentic local food and unique sights.
Day trips from Lisbon include Sintra and its pretty palaces, Cascais and its beautiful beaches, and the shrine of Fatima, where millions of pilgrims flock each year.
Porto, to the north, is Portugal’s second city and home to the world-famous port wine. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Porto’s historic center is unmissable, as is a boat ride on the Douro under the metal arch of the Dom Luís I bridge.
Day trips from Porto include a guided tour to the Douro Valley, where you can taste wines at source and take a boat trip to drink in the unique landscape of terraced vineyards. The small 12th-century town of Guimaraes is also a great option for a trip during your guided visit to Portugal.
Then, further south you will find the beaches of the Algarve. This is the ideal place to relax after a busy few days of sightseeing. Or if you want more action, how about organizing a boat trip, some water sports or a walking route for you to keep on enjoying this marvelous country?
It doesn’t stop there. These are just some ideas of what you can see in Portugal. But we’re also looking forward to presenting you with other suggestions for heading off the beaten track into some unforgettable experiences!
Now, you just need to get in touch with us so we can help you plan your tailor-made vacation in Portugal.
The best thing about Portugal is that you’re spoilt for choice when planning a vacation.
You have cities, countryside, beaches and mountains. You have history, art, water sports and amazing food and drink.
So, when asking about the best places to holiday in Portugal, it really is up to you!
Of course, we would advise you to work with us, expert travel curators Lugarex, to design a stress-free vacation where there’s room for everything.
If it’s a city break, Lisbon is the place to be.
If you want great food and drink, how about some time in the north, around the Douro Valley and its world-famous wines?
If you’re into history, we can arrange visits to Portugal’s many fascinating sites, with local guides who love sharing their subject.
And of course, if you’re looking for time on the beach enjoying the sun, sea and sand, we’ll know to send you south to the Algarve.
But the best thing of all is that if you want a combination of all those options, that’s fine too!
Just tell us how long you’d like to visit, who's in your party and what you love doing. The rest can be left to us!
Portugal is known for its quality wines, traditional cuisine, myriad international influences and excellent hospitality. That makes it an ideal place to try some amazing local gastronomy.
Luckily for you, we at travel curators Lugarex know exactly how to fulfill your epicurean wishes!
One day you might like to try a traditional Portuguese meal, made with great ingredients and simple tastes. On others you might want something more modern or a touch of fine dining to celebrate your trip.
You might want an intimate dinner to music (we’d suggest the unique sounds of Portuguese fado), or perhaps you need a restaurant that will cater to different tastes, including those of little children.
So, when you ask us, “Where shall we eat in Portugal?”, our answer is, “Wherever you like!”
The range of eateries is extensive. From bakeries and cafes for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee to lunch in a restaurante or tasca, where you can have an authentic experience of a busy Portuguese mealtime. A drink in a bar with some petiscos (similar to Spanish tapas) is a good way to start the evening. And if it’s great seafood you want, head for the marisqueira.
The timing of meals is important, to make sure you don’t turn up too early or too late. Lunch, for instance, takes place between noon and 3pm and dinner from around 7.30pm to 10pm.
Another handy hint is to be aware of meal sizes. Large portions are typical, so you might think about ordering to share as an option
As you plan your visit with us, we’ll be sure to discuss your gastronomic preferences. That way, we can work with our experienced local guides to make sure they take you to the hidden restaurants and bars that only the locals know about during your personalized tours.
So, start dreaming of fresh fish and meat, salt cod (bacalhau) in its many guises and more
Portuguese custard tarts that you can imagine! Portugal, its food and drink awaits.
For more insights into where to eat in Portugal and how to make the most of food and drink experiences in the country, get in touch with us at Lugarex now.
A família, as it’s known in Portugal, is one of the core elements of Portuguese life. So you’re in luck, because that means your family is welcome in Portugal!
As travel designers, we at Lugarex know that traveling as a family is not always easy. Different members want different things. Plus, your timetables may revolve around naps or meals.
But don’t worry. In addition to Portugal being a great place for families, Lugarex can also plan a tailor-made vacation for you and your loved ones that makes sure everyone is satisfied.
From start to finish, we will work with you to find out who you are and what you’re looking for out of your holiday in Portugal. Then, we can come up with a personalized schedule that integrates guided tours, activities and downtime.
As for the best places to go, family trips to Portugal can include visits and activities for the mind, for the body and for fun. So, we’re confident we can cover all your family’s needs. From museums to theme parks to a relaxing time by the ocean, you’re spoilt for choice.
So, whether it’s spotting dolphins in the Algarve, a taste of Portuguese life in Lisbon or some history and beautiful natural landscapes around Porto, we can get things organized for you.
And don’t forget that our hands-on approach to working with you means we can also help you sort out any last-minute requirements once you’re on your trip.
So come on, let’s get planning for your family vacation in Portugal!
There’s no denying it: Portugal is a popular country. It is a summertime destination for many Europeans, as well as the Portuguese themselves, who head for the countryside and coast mainly in August.
So, what does that mean for you? Well, let’s just say the summer months, from July to early September, are busy. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel to Portugal in summer, however. It’s just that your experience will be slightly different from visits at other times of the year.
One of the highlights of visiting in summer is that in tourist areas, everything is open, giving you a true taste of the vibrancy and energy of summers in Southern Europe.
And then, there’s the weather. For sun worshippers, average temperatures in summer are around 84°F, with Portugal getting more sunshine than California!
Despite the heat, which means cities and interior locations can feel even warmer, the good news is that the breeze from the Atlantic has a cooling effect not always felt in neighboring Spain or Italy in the summer months.
If the hot weather is not your thing, however, springtime is a great time of year to visit Portugal and May is especially pleasant, with average temperatures of 72°F in Lisbon.
The Algarve, which enjoys an average temperature of 78°F in summer also maintains an acceptable winter average of 60°F. Unlike the rest of the country, which tends to fall foul of the damp and cold Atlantic climate, the Algarve is a good choice for traveling out of season. And May in the Algarve is, like Lisbon, warm at around 73°F.
There’s always September too, with those end-of-summer benefits of unexpectedly warm weather and fewer tourists.
Of course, the cities of Lisbon and Porto are great places to visit throughout the year. You might need a coat and umbrella in the autumn and winter, in case of some showers or colder weather, but the wonderful sights and history on offer will delight you, come rain or shine.
So, there you have some tips about the best time to travel to Portugal. If you want more insights, get in touch with us, your luxury travel designers Lugarex. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
All temperature references obtained from the UK Met Office.