7 Best Girls Getaways in Portugal

Portugal , with its sun-drenched beaches and picturesque towns, is the perfect destination for a girls’ trip with a mix of adventure and relaxation. 
Imagine sipping on fine Portuguese wine in the Douro Valley, catching up over coffee in Lisbon’s trendiest cafes, or basking under the Algarve sun. 
This guide zeroes in on Portugal’s gems – Lisbon , Casais, Sintra, Porto , Douro Valley, Lagos, and Albufeira – each offering its unique appeal. We’ll explore why these spots are fantastic for a girls’ trip, from their vibrant nightlife, picture-perfect settings and serene beaches to their culinary delights. 
Plus, we’ll dive into where to stay in Portugal , from chic boutique hotels nestled in bustling neighborhoods to tranquil retreats offering breathtaking views.
Alright, let’s dive into the best Portugal girls’ getaway destinations.
Best Girls Trips in Portugal
Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal’s charismatic capital, stands as the ultimate starting point for a girls’ getaway, blending historical appeal with a pulsating contemporary scene. Its dynamic mix of traditional architecture, modern art, and lively nightlife provides a backdrop for every kind of adventure. 
Spend your days meandering through the colorful streets of Alfama, catching the vintage tram 28 for a city tour, or indulging in pastéis de nata tasting sessions at Belém.
Top things to do include a visit to the Time Out Market, where you can sample a wide array of Portuguese dishes under one roof, or a sunset sail along the Tagus River, offering unparalleled views of the city. For those culturally inclined, the Berardo Collection Museum showcases modern and contemporary art in Belém.
Stay in the best Lisbon neighborhood of Chiado, where boutique hotels like the Lisbon Carmo Hotel offer cozy accommodations amidst bustling cafes, shopping, and nightlife.
Don’t miss a chance to listen to live Fado music in one of the traditional restaurants of Alfama or Bairro Alto, where the emotional performance of Fado singers adds an unforgettable touch to your Lisbon experience. 
Cascais
Cascais, once a quaint fishing village, is now a sophisticated seaside escape, perfect for a girls’ getaway. This town combines glamour with traditional Portuguese charm, offering sun-kissed beaches, elegant shopping, and waterfront dining. 
This coastal gem is the ideal spot for friends looking for both relaxation on stunning beaches like Praia do Guincho and cultural exploration in the heart of the village.
Top activities in Cascais include strolling along the charming cobblestone streets, exploring the vibrant market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings for local crafts and food, or taking a bike ride along the scenic path that leads to the nearby town of Guincho. 
For art lovers, the Paula Rego House of Stories is a must-visit, showcasing the unique works of the renowned Portuguese artist.
When it comes to where to stay, the Albatroz Hotel offers breathtaking sea views and luxury accommodations right on the water’s edge. Its location is unbeatable, within walking distance to both the town center and the beach.
Make a reservation at Mar do Inferno, a seafood restaurant with views over the dramatic Boca do Inferno cliffs. The fresh seafood and the sunset view provide a perfect setting for an unforgettable dinner. 
Sintra
Sintra is a real-life fairy tale, nestled amidst lush forests and dotted with pastel-colored palaces and ancient ruins. It’s a dreamy escape from the hustle and bustle, making it perfect for a girls’ trip focused on enchantment and exploration. Sintra’s appeal lies in its unique blend of natural beauty and architectural wonders, offering a serene backdrop for bonding and adventure.
Top things to do in Sintra revolve around its UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmarks. Explore the whimsical Pena Palace, perched atop a hill with breathtaking views and vibrant colors that seem out of a storybook. Wander through the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, with its gothic facades, underground tunnels, and enchanting gardens. 
Don’t miss the chance to taste traditional Portuguese pastries, such as travesseiros and queijadas, in the village’s quaint bakeries.
For accommodations, consider staying in the historic center for easy access to Sintra’s main attractions. 

 Beat the crowds by starting your day early, especially if you’re visiting the Pena Palace. The morning mist surrounding the palace adds to its mystical allure, providing a serene and slightly cooler experience. 
Porto
Porto , with its rich history, stunning riverside landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, is a dynamic city perfect for a girls’ trip. It’s where tradition meets trend, offering everything from wine tastings in historic cellars to contemporary art galleries. Porto’s charm lies in its ability to embrace its past while presenting a youthful, modern vibe.
Dive into the heart of Porto by exploring its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ribeira district, where colorful houses line narrow cobbled streets. A visit to the famous Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, is a must. 
For a taste of Porto’s renowned port wine, head to the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia for a tour and tasting session. Another highlight is cruising down the Douro River, providing a unique perspective of the city’s stunning architecture and bridges.
Stay in the trendy neighborhood of Baixa/Sé, where you’ll find the NH Collection Porto Batalha , situated in a beautifully renovated 18th-century palace. This area is bustling with cafes, bars, and shops, making it a convenient and lively base for your stay.
For an unforgettable dining experience, book a table at Cantinho do Avillez, where renowned chef José Avillez blends traditional Portuguese flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. 
Douro Valley
The Douro Valley, celebrated for its terraced vineyards and scenic river valleys, offers a tranquil retreat for a girls’ getaway focused on wine, nature, and relaxation. This region, the birthplace of Port wine, combines breathtaking landscapes with rich culinary traditions, making it a haven for those seeking a serene escape with a touch of luxury.
Embarking on a wine-tasting tour through the Douro’s esteemed vineyards is a must-do activity. Discover the intricate process of wine making, from grape to glass, and indulge in tastings of the valley’s world-renowned wines. 
For a unique experience, take a traditional rabelo boat tour along the Douro River, allowing you to absorb the stunning vistas of vine-clad hills from the water.
For a picturesque stay, Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House offers an exquisite blend of comfort and elegance amidst the vineyards. This boutique hotel not only provides luxurious accommodations but also offers wine-related activities and a farm-to-table dining experience showcasing the region’s culinary delights.
Visit in September or October to witness the grape harvest, a pivotal and vibrant time in the valley. Participating in the harvest can provide a hands-on experience and deeper appreciation for the wine-making process.
Lagos, Algarve Coast
Lagos, nestled in the Western Algarve, is a blend of stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant town life, making it an ideal spot for a girls’ getaway seeking sun, adventure, and relaxation. Its appeal lies in the diversity of experiences it offers, from laid-back beach days to lively evenings in the old town.
Top activities in Lagos include exploring the mesmerizing rock formations of Ponta da Piedade by kayak or boat tour, offering an up-close look at the caves and grottos that dot the coastline. 
Relax on the pristine sands of Meia Praia or take a surf lesson at one of the many surf schools. The town’s cobbled streets, filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, provide a lively atmosphere for evening entertainment.
Stay at the Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda for a luxurious retreat with stunning sea views and easy access to the beaches and town center. This hotel combines charm and elegance, offering a tranquil base with top-notch amenities.
Albufeira, Algarve Coast
Albufeira, in the heart of the Algarve, is the go-to destination for friends looking for a blend of beautiful beaches and a buzzing nightlife scene. This lively town offers a wide range of activities, from sunbathing on golden sands to dancing the night away in vibrant clubs and bars. 
Begin your adventure by lounging on the famous Praia dos Pescadores or exploring the hidden coves and stunning cliffs along Praia da Falésia. For those seeking thrills, water sports and boat tours to see dolphins are readily available. 
As the sun sets, head to the old town, where cobbled streets are lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, offering a taste of local cuisine and culture.
The EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel provides a luxurious haven with direct access to Falesia Beach. 
Visit the beachside bars in the evening for live music and cocktails with a view. For an authentic experience, dine at Vila Joya, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, for an exquisite meal that will be a highlight of your trip. 
Portugal Girls Weekend Final Thoughts
So there you have it, the top destinations for a girl’s trip to Portugal. From the historic streets of Lisbon and Porto to the serene beauty of the Douro Valley, the chic coastal vibe of Cascais, and the sun-soaked beaches of Lagos and Albufeira in the Algarve, Portugal promises a perfect blend of culture, adventure, relaxation, and nightlife. 
Each destination has its unique charm, ensuring that a girls’ trip here will be filled with memorable moments, laughter, and the joy of exploration. 
Guest Author: Haley Blackall the founder of Where to Stay Portugal .
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