Solo Travel in Portugal: The Ultimate Guide (2025)

My solo trip to Portugal was a powerful reminder of how much beauty truly exists in Europe. The further south you travel from the UK, the more wild and epic the scenery seems to become, with Portugal being a southern jewel with more sun than California! Along with plenty of vitamin D, visitors can soak up the rugged coast off Lisbon and Porto, unwind on glorious Algarve beaches, or head inland to experience Portuguese countryside life.

Even though Portugal is a small country (even smaller than the UK), there are so many exciting opportunities. In the north lies the ancient town of Braga boasting an array of churches and neighbouring Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês– picture lagoons, green hills, elusive wildlife like deer and eagles, and Roman ruins.

Deciding to solo travel Portugal will be one of your best decisions. The country and the people will welcome you with open arms, with locals offering Pastéis de Nata and a sweet, fruity glass of Medronho. Every second of my Portuguese adventure was full of magic. From absorbing the bustling energy of Lisbon to venturing to Madeira in search of Europe’s Hawaii, my solo Portugal trip is one I’ll remember forever.

Planning a solo trip to Portugal? Here's where you'll find:

1. Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Portugal
2. How To Get To Portugal As A Solo Traveller
3. Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Portugal
4. Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Portugal?
5. How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Portugal?
6. How To Book Hostels and Hotels in Portugal
7. Can I Get Around Portugal Without Knowing Portuguese?
8. Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Portugal
9. SIM Cards in Portugal
10. Is Portugal a Good Place to Travel Solo?
11. How Much Does A Solo Trip To Portugal Cost?
12. Is Portugal Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?
13. Best Places For Solo Travel In Portugal
14. How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Portugal?

Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Portugal

If there’s one thing I recommend doing before your solo Portugal trip, it’s learning a few Portuguese words! Locals are amiable and love nothing more than chatting and bonding with tourists. Even in remote villages, Portuguese people will always stop for a chinwag, so it’s useful to know words like Bom Dia, obrigada, and por favor so you can at least speak a little of the language and connect with locals. 

It’s also a good shout to make a budget to stick to. I wanted to go everywhere and do everything in Portugal but this wasn’t possible. By mapping out a budget for my trip, I allocated a certain amount on activities and sightseeing keeping me in check with spending so I had enough for the whole trip. This meant I could enjoy treating myself to restaurants and bars in Lisbon, cross over to Madeira for an epic adventure on the side, and relish unimaginable beaches in the Algarve to the soundtrack of waves and Fado music.

How To Get To Portugal As A Solo Traveller

Most times when I travel overseas, flights and accommodation take the biggest dent out of my budget. Luckily, flights from the UK to Portugal aren’t atrociously expensive, and using shortcuts to get cheap flights to Portugal is a must for making things even more affordable. Portugal has a few main airports including Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), Porto Airport (OPO), and Faro Airport (FAO) in the Algarve. Each offers different opportunities for travellers and varying costs, so work out the arrival location that best suits your onward travel plans. 

As you can see from the flights I found above, flight prices range substantially depending on where you fly. Short and sweet, the journey from the UK to Portugal only takes a couple of hours, so choose an airport close to where you want to start your Portuguese journey! Early morning flights are ideal as you still have time left in the day after landing to explore and set up in a hostel or hotel. 

Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Portugal

Over a decade, I’ve experienced all forms of travel from planes and boats to trains and buses, and I’ve learned a thing or two about how to bag the best prices. I’ve put together a detailed guide for finding cheap flights but read on for a few of my essential money-saving hacks. 

Use Comparison Websites

Comparison websites are a must. Taking next to no time to scan the web for the best deals, comparison websites do the work that would take travellers hours to complete. I’ve always relied on Skyscanner to find the cheapest flight prices. The site is easy to use and finds so many deals in literal moments– it’s a lifesaver. 

Be Flexible 

When hunting around for the best flight options, keep your plans flexible. You’ll probably have a rough idea of the time of year you want to travel and places you want to see, but don’t make concrete plans until you’ve checked out flight prices. It may make more sense to fly into a different airport than you originally planned and start your trip in a fresh location. Buses and trains are common methods of affordable transport so once you’ve landed it won’t take much of your budget to get around the country. 

Travel Off-Peak

Portugal has epic weather year-round, so there’s no bad time to visit. What does this mean? You aren’t restricted to just summer for sun, so there’s no need to travel during peak season. The height of summer comes with higher prices for flights and accommodation, not to mention a busier experience with more tourists. Instead, opt for off-peak travel where prices are much cheaper and flights quieter. 

Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Portugal?

When travelling as a tourist, you can visit Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days in 180 days in the Schengen area. Your passport must be valid and in date for at least 3 months after your planned departure from Portugal. Capping your time in Portugal due to Brexit isn’t ideal, but 3 months provides plenty of time for exploring this magnificent country. Find out more about travel requirements for Portugal on the UK GOV website here.

How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Portugal?

Have you considered the type of solo trip to Portugal you’d like to experience? The country has everything from the world’s biggest waves in Nazaré to endless vineyards and wineries in Porto to suit every traveller. A fully booked trip ensures you don’t miss out on anything and have limited stress, group trips offer a fun, dynamic opportunity for meeting other travellers, and arranging as little as possible means diving into spontaneity head first!

Entire Planned Trip

Planning the entirety of your trip provides structure and dependability– ideal for beginner solo travellers. Knowing the hostels you’re staying at and the activities you’ll be doing each day is comforting and reassuring, especially for those with little solo travel experience. Jet2 has some exciting package holidays at affordable prices to give you a nudge towards what a solo Portugal trip can look like – don't forget to use the code SOLO30 to save money on your solo trip!

Group Trip

Reminiscing about the awesome people I’ve met on my worldwide travels brings up some incredible memories. Group trips are the answer for travellers wanting to meet other backpackers and what better way to bond than over a fun activity or group tour? If you're after a group trip, I recommend G Adventures Portugal tours – they have lots of great options from city breaks to adventure.

Flight and One Night Accommodation  

I prefer having less structure for my trips as I like changing plans and being open to recommendations I may not have thought about from other travellers and locals. If this sounds like you, and you’ve already got travel experience under your belt, consider booking just an outbound flight and one night of accommodation. You can fill in the rest of your schedule as you explore the abundant southern gem. 

How To Book Hostels and Hotels In Portugal

Accommodation is plentiful in Portugal. Imagine quaint hotels on the outskirts of towns and bustling hostels in the heart of Lisbon. Sourcing the best accommodation deals for Portugal can take a lot of time, so I put my faith in Hotels.com, Booking and Hostelworld. Both websites have changed the way I book trips, offering deals that are impossible to find elsewhere online. 

I can set date ranges and explore various locations in moments and each site displays accommodations suitable for my trips with honest ratings and reviews from other travellers, and exceptional detail about amenities, proximity to key locations and more. I’ve got plenty more tricks for cutting hotel costs.

Currency, Plugs And The Best Ways To Get Around

The currency used in Portugal and Madeira is the euro. When packing, I find it useful to bring a mixture of cash and a prepaid travel card with additional funds so I’m covered if one option gets lost, stolen, or misplaced. Knowing what you need to pack vs what you want to pack is how I’ve become a pro at arranging my luggage and not bringing useless items. Explore my top tips for packing so you don’t have to wrestle with zipping your suitcase or backpack!

What about the adaptors to take on your solo trip to Portugal? The country uses plug types C and F, so bring the correct adaptors for charging cameras, laptops, and more. Once you’ve landed, set up in the hostel and are ready to take to the streets, the best ways of getting around are buses, trains, cars, and bikes unless you have the budget for a boat tour which provides a unique look at parts of the country like the Douro River.

Can I Get Around Portugal Without Knowing Portuguese?

Speaking Portuguese isn’t a must, but taking time to learn a few words or phrases can help with conversations in remote areas. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, English is commonly spoken, and it’s a similar story in the Algarve. In more rural areas, this isn’t the case which is why it’s helpful to know some of the language. 

Best Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Portugal

I don’t want to put a damper on things, but things don’t always run smoothly, especially with travelling. Accidents happen, flights get delayed, and sickness doesn’t wait for anyone. That’s why I rely on travel insurance to keep me safe while I’m away from home. Read my in-depth guide on travel insurance, but check out my favourite options below:

Arranging plans for your solo Italy trip is an exciting time, but it can be easy to skip the important stuff. Travel insurance isn’t a must, but I can only describe the comfort and peace of mind it gives me overseas. Being covered for unexpected events like flight delays, lost baggage, and illness means I’m more relaxed and become a yes person. 

I thrive on adventure, but when it comes to my well-being, I don't compromise. If you need travel insurance for a solo trip to Greece, SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance Essential provides coverage in 175+ countries, and you have complete control over when your policy starts and stops at any time. They've recently expanded coverage to include adventure sports and electronics theft too. Think of it as your safety net, if something goes wrong its great to have back-up in case you get sick, injured or your kit gets damaged. I know how frustrating travel can be sometimes, so it's good to know that when things go wrong I've got a good insurance policy in my corner.

They also cover:

• Meals & accommodations if you have a travel delay over 12 hours
• Emergency dental care up to $1000
• Medical care including prescriptions, emergency care and hospital stays
• Coverage for lost checked luggage
• Flights home if something bad happens
• Continued coverage for visits back home
• Coverage for motor accidents
• Coverage for injuries from leisure sports & activities

If you need coverage for a longer period, you might consider looking at their Complete plan - includes all Essential features, plus comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, most countries in the world, including in your home country.

Best eSIM For Travelling To Portugal

Unless I’m relaxing in a body of water, I’m unashamed to say I keep my phone on me pretty much all the time! It’s ideal for safety, navigation, and so much more, so I need the option of being connected overseas.

To beat roaming charges, I use Holafly. The company boasts a range of data plans in over 200 countries and regions including Italy. Plans are super affordable and start from just €6 for Italy!

My number one solo travel safety hack is eSIMs – they're a lifesaver for solo female travellers who want to feel confident when travelling alone. Why does this make solo travel safer? Because the second you touch down in a new destination you have access to the internet and can text/make calls. An eSIM is invaluable for solo travellers to be able to navigate & look up directions, find their hotel, book an Uber and stay connected with friends and family. Holafly are my go-to eSIM provider and I have a special discount code ABSOLUTELYLUCY for 5% off at Holafly – get yours now to prepare for first time solo travel. 

Read my full blog post on the Best eSIM For Solo Female Travellers To Beat Roaming Charges for more information.

Is Portugal A Good Place To Travel Solo?

So, let’s get to it, the question so many people ask– is Portugal a good place for solo travellers? ABSOLUTELY! I and lots of other solo backpackers rank Portugal as one of the safest locations in Europe. The locals are unbelievably friendly, there’s so much to do, and as a favourite destination for tourists worldwide, it’s also a haven for travellers.

The laid-back vibe flows throughout the country from the Algarve to the mountainous north. Even in the heart of Lisbon, I felt safe and like a local, sipping espressos and watching the world go by. Petty crimes like pickpocketing happen in high tourist areas, but that was the only concern I had during my stay! But I’m always vigilant wherever I’m travelling, avoiding walking streets in the dark and keeping my phone on me in case I need to search for directions or make a call. 

For solo travelling, there’s no better place than Portugal. Explore Oceanário de Lisboa in the capital city, marvelling at sharks, sting rays and a host of other sea life or head to Torre de Belém to explore the spectacular monument. Head away from the major Portuguese cities and wild nature will transport you to another land. Termas de São Pedro do Sul awaits with hot springs offering therapeutic effects in the most serene setting. 

Should I Go To Portugal On My First Solo Trip?

Choosing to solo travel Portugal is the first step of a very exciting journey! It’s a dreamy location for first-time solo travellers looking for a country with everything. The bustling cities and historical monuments are a nod to Portuguese culture and history, and crystal waters and award-winning beaches in the Algarve are the ideal settings to relax and refresh. As a relatively small country, it doesn’t take long to travel around Portugal, and buses and trains are affordable for getting around. 

Along with the rhythmic Portuguese language, you’ll also hear English as it’s commonly spoken. This is comforting especially for travellers on their first solo trip, as there is likely someone who will be able to understand you. Staying in hostels over hotels is a better way to meet other travellers, and who knows, maybe you’ll continue some of your Portuguese ventures together? 

Is Portugal Expensive For A Solo Traveller?

In terms of European prices, Portugal is a pretty affordable destination, especially for those travelling from the UK. Down the narrow, cobbled (and VERY hilly) streets of Lisbon and Porto prices are a little higher, but it’s understandable as both cities are famous worldwide for their beauty, history, and abundant culture. 

How Much Does A Solo Trip To Portugal Cost?

Working out the cost of a solo trip to Portugal can be a little tricky as it depends on your budget and holiday plans. I like to experience overseas adventures year-round which means I stick to tight budgets enabling more trips! But this doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences. For Portugal, I just made smart decisions like staying in hostels over hotels, travelling off-peak, and trying not to stop at every pastelaria I saw!

One Month in Portugal

The volume of free entry attractions blew my mind in Portugal and my purse was happy about it too. Add Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Time Out Market Lisboa, and Praia da Nazaré to your list of must-sees that don’t cost a cent. Opting for a balance of free and paid entry sites is just one of my budget travel tips.

Is Portugal Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?

When judging if places are safe to explore as a solo female, I research other women’s experiences, tourist infrastructure, culture, and common religious beliefs and attitudes toward females. I couldn’t have felt safer in Portugal. Every interaction was met with warmth and openness, and locals even gave me plenty of recommendations of what to do and see in particular areas. The country has a low crime rate but it’s still wise to be cautious and trust your gut if you feel uneasy. 

Adventuring around the planet far and wide over the last decade has given me confidence and understanding like never before. My intuition is strong, so if I feel something is off, I remove myself from the situation and return to a safe, reliable place like my hostel dorm. I didn’t experience any moments like this in Portugal, and the kindred souls I met on my journey only had praise for the country too. Read my guides for solo female travellers so you can feel equipped and ready before setting off. 

Which Part Of Portugal Is Best For Solo Female Travellers?

Due to the sheer volume of travellers, approachable locals, and abundance of things to do, Lisbon is my top choice for solo female travellers. I wish you could feel the energy of the city through the screen because it is infectious! Not to mention the bakeries, museums, galleries, cafes, and proximity to the stunning Parque Florestal de Monsanto. 

Lisbon

If the weather alone isn’t enough to entice you to Lisbon, maybe the delectable cuisine, eclectic nightlife, and picturesque cobbled alleyways will do it! I left a piece of my heart in the city and would go back just to feel the calm vibe and taste Queijo on freshly baked bread. 

• Best Hotel: WC by The Beautique Hotels
• Best Hostel: Safestay Lisbon Bairro Alto
• Best things to do in Lisbon

Where Are The Best Places For Solo Travel In Portugal?

I could go on and on about my passion for Lisbon, but there are plenty of other glorious spots in Portugal you simply can’t miss. I’ve picked six locations based on the availability of things to do, comfortability as a solo female, and tourist infrastructure. Let’s get to it!

Porto

Full of rich history and hills to give your quads the ultimate workout, Porto is a close second to Lisbon for my favourite spot in Portugal. Neighbouring the Douro River, Porto is a scenic and romantic city boasting incredible structures like Torre dos Clérigos, Catedral do Porto, and the spectacular Igreja e Museu de São Francisco do Porto.

• Best Hotel: Predicados do Douro Palace
• Best Hostel: Lost Inn Porto 
• Best things to do in Porto

Madeira

Where do I even begin with the spectacle of Madeira?! The island is a tropical escape for any traveller wanting to breathe the cleanest, freshest air, and surround themselves in a luscious green landscape. The island is a stark reminder that we Brits don’t have to travel the world in search of otherworldly beauty– it’s just a few hours away on a trip through the sky!

• Best Hotel: Dom Pedro Madeira
• Best Hostel: Residencial Colombo
• Best things to do in Madeira

Azores

Nine islands make up the Azores– an array of mountains, volcanoes, beaches, and more to infuse natural wonder into every visitor. São Miguel Island is one of my favourites as it’s super easy to reach from the mainland and is a hiking heaven. Lagoa do Fogo, Caldeira das Furnas, and Miradouro da Boca do Inferno are unmissable, offering scenes that I thought only belonged in Jurassic Park movies!

• Best Hotel: Casa do Castanheiro - Nordeste, Açores
• Best Hostel: Azores Youth Hostels São Miguel
• Best things to do in Azores

Algarve

It goes without saying that every beach in Portugal is beautiful, but the dramatic cliffs and rock formations in the Algarve take things up a notch. The water may be chilly, but how can you complain when paddling and watching the sunset on the horizon? I experienced nothing but bliss in the Algarve, with Algar Seco and Benagil Cave and the Old Town of Albufeira City being a couple of my favourite spots. 

• Best Hotel: Al Casa Grande
• Best Hostel: Sandy Bottoms Hostel
• Best things to do in Algarve

Sintra

The municipality of Sintra is ideal to visit before or after heading to Lisbon and is home to elaborate, brightly coloured castles, historic ruins, magical nature, and unique gardens sculpted with native and exotic plants. If possible, try to spend a couple of days in Sintra, as activities are very budget-friendly and you’ll want to immerse yourself in everything– trust me! 

• Best Hotel: Monte da Lua
• Best Hostel: Oasis Backpackers' Hostel Sintra Surf
• Best things to do in Sintra

Douro Valley

Wine is one of the biggest reasons tourists flock to the Douro Valley in search of full-bodied Port wine with rich, fruity undertones and stunning views to enjoy every sip. Nestled in northern Portugal, the Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world, blending the finest nature with Portuguese culture.

• Best Hotel: Quinta Vale do Cabo
• Best Hostel: Des Arts
• Best things to do in Douro Valley

How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling To Portugal?

One of the hurdles for solo travellers is making friends. Hopping around the world on planes is an epic adventure for sure, but even after 10 years, I still have moments when I feel a little lonely. Bonding with other travellers creates such a humbling, connected experience, where solo backpackers can get together, share stories and even go on group adventures. Voyaging the globe alone can be tough, so I wrote a guide full of tips for solo travelling, and below are my top tips for making friends when you solo travel Portugal!

Fake It ‘Till You Make It

Confidence isn’t always on tap for everyone (me included!) but my confidence and self-assurance have sky-rocketed over the last few years. Speaking to new people can feel overwhelming so I fake it ‘till I make it! I wear a smile and start a conversation over a topic I’m familiar with like travelling so I have plenty to share. Nerves soon disappear and I’m left with the beginning of a blossoming friendship. 

Take Part In Group Activities

What better way to make friends than to bond over a group activity? Think of a wine tour, water sport, or guided group hike through some of Portugal’s stunning natural environments. Group tours bring like-minded people together to bond over a shared experience. Particularly useful for beginner solo travellers, group tours in Portugal are the ideal answer to break the ice and get you interacting with new people. 

Speak To Locals

You don’t just have to make friends with other travellers when visiting Portugal. Locals are chatty, friendly and most of the time would love to talk about Portugal over a coffee or Sagres. Striking a conversation can feel intimidating, but with social clubs, bars, and clubs spread throughout the country, there’s no need to let nerves win, and you can enjoy some tasty liquid courage too!