Summer in Portugal 2025: Ideas and Destinations for an Unforgettable Holiday
Are you looking for a charming place to disconnect, enjoy great food, and stunning landscapes? Portugal might be your dream destination this summer.
In recent years, the Portuguese nation has become one of Europe’s top travel destinations. It offers a unique blend of modernity, tradition, breathtaking scenery, and world-class cuisine, making it a perfect choice for a summer holiday.
But what is there to see in Portugal besides beaches? Where should you go if you’re travelling with children, as a couple, or alone? What activities should you plan in each place? Below is a list of some of the best destinations to enjoy summer in Portugal in 2025.
Why is Portugal the perfect summer destination?
Portugal is one of those places that has it all. During summer, the country transforms into a true paradise for travellers. With pleasant temperatures between 25°C and 30°C, it’s perfect for enjoying outdoor activities from morning until night.
There’s a wide variety of landscapes, from the wild cliffs of the Algarve to the green mountains of Madeira, the vineyards of the Douro Valley, and the volcanic beaches of the Azores.
Portugal also offers a calm, welcoming lifestyle, ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers. And let’s not forget an important detail: safety. Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world.
5 Ideal Destinations to Enjoy Summer in Portugal
The list of interesting places for a summer holiday in Portugal is as long as its coastline. However, some destinations shine especially bright in the summer months:
Lisbon
In summer, the Portuguese capital comes alive with festivals, terraces overlooking the Tagus River, and lively nightlife. Plus, it’s close to beaches like Cascais and Estoril—just 30 minutes by train—making Lisbon the ideal base to mix city tourism with beach days.
Porto
Porto has a bohemian charm that wins everyone over. In summer, its riverside area becomes a bustling spot filled with terraces, boats, and street performances. Sunset cruises on the Douro are magical, as are wine tastings in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the bridge.
Nazaré
If you’re looking for a different getaway, Nazaré is a great option for summer 2025. Known for its giant winter waves, it offers a more peaceful vibe in summer: family-friendly beach, traditional fishing, and a relaxed atmosphere.
A great place to stay for families or groups is Ohai Nazaré, a resort nestled in the forest just minutes from the beach. It features modern bungalows, pools, a water park, kids’ activities, and a unique natural setting.
Algarve
It’s impossible to talk about summer in Portugal without mentioning the Algarve. This region has over 150 stunning beaches—perfect for sunbathing or watersports.
Praia da Marinha is a classic, known for its breathtaking beauty, but if you’re after something quieter, don’t miss Tavira’s wild coast.
Madeira
Madeira is ideal for those seeking unspoiled nature. This subtropical island offers hiking along levadas, whale watching, and the famous Wine Festival in Funchal.
Must-Do Plans for Your Trip
Some say the best way to experience Portugal is to go with the flow. But there are a few plans that are simply unmissable if you want to get the most out of the Portuguese summer:
- Beaches for everyone: from hidden coves in the Algarve to natural pools in Madeira and dramatic coastal views in Costa Vicentina.
- Unique hikes: trails in Sintra, Serra da Estrela, and the Azores reveal landscapes full of forests, vineyards, and cliffs.
- Surf for all levels: Peniche, Ericeira, and Figueira da Foz are ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
- Wine tasting with a view: Portugal boasts over 250 native grape varieties. Douro, Alentejo, Gaia, and Madeira offer tastings among the vineyards.
- Whale watching: in the Azores and Madeira, you can spot whales and dolphins.
