Why Portugal Should Be Your Next European Adventure
- Luna Blake
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
Welcoming rich culture and now easier than ever to reach
As a travel advisor who’s helped countless clients find their dream European getaway, I’ve seen trends come and go—but Portugal’s recent rise in popularity is more than a trend. It’s a rediscovery of a gem that blends soulful culture, stunning scenery, and affordability in a way few destinations can match.
And now, for West Coast travelers especially, there’s one more reason to pack your bags: new direct flights from Los Angeles to Lisbon, thanks to TAP Air Portugal. It’s easier than ever to begin your Portugal European adventure—no East Coast layover required. With additional flights already running from San Francisco, New York, Boston, Miami, and beyond, Portugal is becoming one of the most accessible European countries for U.S. travelers.
Here’s why Portugal is one of our top picks right now, and how you can make it your own.
Lisbon: Portugal’s Vibrant Capital
Lisbon is a city that wraps its arms around you. Steep cobblestone streets lead to rooftop views, pastel buildings hide cozy wine bars, and the echo of Fado music drifts through alleyways. It’s a seamless blend of timeless charm and modern energy.
Ride the iconic Tram 28 through the historic Alfama district.
Taste your way through Time Out Market, where chefs serve up elevated takes on traditional Portuguese dishes.
Explore Belém, home to the Jerónimos Monastery and original pastel de nata.
Stay in the heart of it all at places like Martinhal Chiado or Martinhal Oriente—ideal for families, couples, and multigenerational groups seeking stylish, apartment-style comfort.
The Algarve: Golden Cliffs and Coastal Calm
Down south, Portugal’s Algarve region feels like a sun-soaked secret. With dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and charming fishing villages, it’s the kind of place where you lose track of time—in the best way.
Take a boat tour through Benagil Cave, one of Europe’s most iconic sea grottoes.
Wander the streets of Lagos or Tavira, soaking in local shops and slow lunches.
Relax at a seaside resort, where wellness, wine, and waves come standard.
The Douro Valley: Wine, Scenery, and Soul
Just a few hours from Porto, the Douro Valley feels worlds away. Terraced vineyards hug the river, and boutique wineries invite you in for tastings and stories passed down through generations.
Cruise the Douro River past UNESCO-listed vineyards.
Sip world-famous Port wine where it’s been made for centuries.
Stay in a vineyard estate, where mornings begin with birdsong and fresh-baked bread.
The Azores & Madeira: Islands of Adventure
For the explorer-at-heart, Portugal’s islands deliver. The Azores offer volcanic landscapes and natural hot springs, while Madeira charms with lush greenery and cliffside views.
Whale-watch in the Azores, one of the best spots in the world to see these majestic creatures.
Hike along levadas in Madeira, a network of irrigation paths that double as scenic trails.
Take a stopover in Terceira—thanks to TAP Air Portugal’s newly added connection from San Francisco.
And here’s the best part: once you land in Lisbon, the entire country opens up to you. Whether you’re sipping vinho verde by the sea, wandering castle towns, or hiking through island jungles, Portugal offers incredible diversity within a compact, drivable landscape.
Let’s Plan Your Portugal Story Together
At Toastable Travel + Events, we specialize in crafting journeys that reflect you—your pace, your interests, your dreams. Portugal has become one of our favorite destinations to design because it’s so rich with possibilities. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or gathering your favorite people together, we’ll help you create a Portugal European adventure that feels personal, seamless, and full of heart.
Let’s toast to your next adventure—Portugal might just be the one.
Source: TravelAge West – “Why Portugal Is the Next Big European Escape for West Coasters”