3 significant reasons why so many Americans visit Portugal

By TravelWiseMar 4, 2024 20:10 PMNews
Share:
3 significant reasons why so many Americans visit Portugal
Portugal's irresistible charm, safe streets, and great weather have made it one of the most popular international travel destinations. Source: Freepik

Portugal is a beautiful country located on the Iberian Peninsula. Its irresistible charm, safe streets, and great weather have made it one of the most popular international travel destinations for Americans over the past few years.

According to Reuters, nearly 140,000 travelers from the United States visited Portugal in November, bringing the number of foreign tourists to the country to a record high, The Manual writes. But what makes Portugal so special?

Inexpensive hotels and affordable restaurant prices

Portugal stands out as an extremely affordable destination, and the country offers a budget-friendly haven for travelers looking to get a quality experience without breaking the bank. In fact, the city of Lagos recently made our list of the most affordable vacation destinations in 2024. You'll find cheap hotels, charming guesthouses, and inexpensive hostels without sacrificing comfort and authenticity. Eating out in the country will also be wallet-friendly, and you can find delicious meals at local markets and eateries at very affordable prices.

In addition, public transportation, including buses and trains, makes it easy to explore all that the country has to offer without having to worry about spending money on renting a car or hailing a taxi.

3 significant reasons why so many Americans visit Portugal
Magnificent views of Lisbon. Source: Freepik

The golden beaches of the Algarve and the volcanic landscapes of Madeira

No matter what you are looking for, Portugal has something for you. If you are interested in city life, you can visit Porto. This coastal city is known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife, and excellent shopping opportunities.

If you want to enjoy the warm weather, head to the Algarve, where there are golden beaches and rugged cliffs where you can soak up the sun all year round. The Douro Valley, adorned with terraced vineyards and a sparkling river, is a paradise for wine lovers who want to enjoy the local harvests.

Nature lovers can head to the lush forests of the Azores or explore the incredible volcanic landscapes of Madeira for a vacation like no other. Whether you want to go hiking, birdwatching or water sports, Portugal's natural beauty promises unforgettable moments. Other top places to visit in Portugal include Lisbon, Minho, and Sintra.

Warm hospitality, friendly people and amazing food

Portuguese hospitality is known for its warmth and authenticity. Visitors are welcomed with open arms, creating a strong sense of home away from home. The country's cuisine is no less appealing, with a wide variety of dishes. You can feast on fresh seafood along the coast, savor the iconic Pastel de Nata pastries, and enjoy the taste of Portuguese wines and cheeses. The combination of friendly locals, great food, and a relaxed atmosphere adds an extra charm to a visit to Portugal.

When to go to Portugal

Are you ready to plan your trip to Portugal? Fortunately, any time of year is a great time to visit this incredible country. However, one of the best tips for visiting the country is to choose the season based on what kind of experience you are looking for. In the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) you will find milder weather as well as fewer crowds. Spring offers vibrant landscapes and fall offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.

If you're visiting in the summer (July-August), keep in mind that this is the peak tourist season, so you're likely to encounter larger crowds as well as higher temperatures. Winter (November to March) is characterized by milder temperatures and is the perfect time to explore the country's historical sites in peace.

Earlier, Travel Wise wrote about vegetarian dishes worth trying in Portugal. The cuisine of this country is famous for its rich palette of flavors and aromas.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Seating area inside Dublin Airport lounge overlooking runway with international aircraft in view

Dublin Airport Broadens Global Reach for Summer 2025

Mar 29, 2025 13:43 PM
A passenger taps their card at a train station ticket barrier using contactless payment

Ticket Office Cuts Raise Travel Concerns

Mar 29, 2025 11:27 AM

Brussels Airlines Unveils Refined Inflight Dining

Mar 29, 2025 09:36 AM

Southern Italy Rail Upgrades to Disrupt Travel

Mar 29, 2025 07:41 AM
flydubai aircraft on runway with mountain backdrop

flydubai Restores Pisa Flights Ahead of Summer

Mar 29, 2025 05:29 AM
Man participating in a public protest or demonstration, facing another person in conversation

Easter Travel at Risk Amid Heathrow PRM Staff Strike

Mar 29, 2025 03:34 AM
Silhouettes of travellers waiting at an airport terminal during sunset

Edinburgh Airport Unveils Passenger-Focused Upgrades for Summer

Mar 28, 2025 23:42 PM
A quiet British railway station with footbridge and empty platforms on a cloudy day

Historic Rail Celebrations Unlock New Travel Routes Across the UK

Mar 28, 2025 20:38 PM
Tail fins of Iberia aircraft parked at Madrid-Barajas Airport on a clear day

Airline Alliance Expands Travel Options Between Spain and Argentina

Mar 28, 2025 18:24 PM

Benidorm Reinvents Itself as Eco-Friendly Holiday Destination

Mar 28, 2025 16:43 PM

Air France Adds Hotel-Style Bedding to Business Class for Long-Haul Flights

Mar 28, 2025 14:37 PM
Passengers at London King’s Cross station beside LNER and other trains under a large arched roof

LNER Opens Advance Ticket Sales for Summer 2025 Travel Across the UK

Mar 28, 2025 12:26 PM
Jet2holidays airplane flying low over a coastal road near a populated area with parked vehicles and scenic green hills

Jet2 Adds Norway Fjord Trips from Newcastle and Leeds Bradford

Mar 28, 2025 10:50 AM
Dark storm clouds forming in the sky before heavy rainfall

Polar Vortex Raises Storm Risk for UK Travelers

Mar 28, 2025 02:41 AM
easyJet aircraft parked at airport gate on a sunny day

easyJet Expands Inflight Services for Summer Travellers

Mar 28, 2025 00:39 AM

Delays Expected on Northern Italy Rail Routes

Mar 27, 2025 22:45 PM

Jet2 Opening New Travel Horizons With Expanded Winter 2025/26 Routes from Newcastle

Mar 27, 2025 20:28 PM
People walking along a historic street in central Torino at sunset

Torino Opens to Travelers as 2025 European Capital of Smart Tourism

Mar 27, 2025 18:33 PM
Ryanair plane landing at sunset at Manchester Airport

Manchester Expands African Flight Options

Mar 27, 2025 16:46 PM
Young woman using smartphone at a European train station

Interrail Booking Becomes Effortless with New Digital System

Mar 27, 2025 14:29 PM
Emirates A380 aircraft taxiing at Sydney Airport during sunset

Emirates Marks 25 Years with Enhanced Sydney Travel

Mar 27, 2025 12:31 PM
A First Class train operated by Transport for Wales approaching a station through a residential area

Michelin-Level Dining on Welsh Rails

Mar 27, 2025 10:44 AM

Travel Disruptions Expected as Helsinki Airport Protest Approaches

Mar 27, 2025 08:27 AM

Heavy Fog Disrupts Transport in Southern England

Mar 27, 2025 06:32 AM
Airplane with Star Alliance livery parked at gate at the airport

Star Alliance and ÖBB Partner to Boost Train-Flight Integration

Mar 26, 2025 23:37 PM
Dark railway tunnel with visible train tracks leading to a lit station exit

Weekend Rail Works to Disrupt Derbyshire Routes

Mar 26, 2025 21:41 PM