10 Best Places to Solo Travel In Portugal

Are you looking forward to solo travel in Portugal? This is the correct place to find out the most important information about solo travel in Portugal.

Portugal is a dream destination for solo travelers! I found it to be safe, full of vibrant culture, and packed with solo-friendly destinations.

Whether you’re into exploring cities, relaxing by the coast, or immersing yourself in nature, this country has it all. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to navigate, making it a fantastic place for solo adventurers.

Best Places to Solo Travel In Portugal

Here are some of the Best Places to Solo Travel In Portugal.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city with a perfect mix of history and modern charm.

As a solo traveler, I loved wandering through the Alfama district, with its maze-like streets and traditional fado music echoing through the alleys.

You can explore Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and ride the famous Tram 28 through some of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Lisbon is lively, and I found it easy to meet other solo travelers in hostels or on free walking tours.

Porto

Porto, known for its stunning riverside views and rich history, is a great place for solo travel.

I enjoyed strolling along the Ribeira with its colorful houses and crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge for a panoramic view of the city.

Don’t miss the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.

As a solo traveler, I found the vibe relaxed, and it’s easy to join a Port wine tasting tour or a river cruise on the Douro River.

Sintra

A short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

The highlight for me was exploring Pena Palace, with its vibrant colors and sweeping views over the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.

Quinta da Regaleira was also magical, especially the mysterious Initiation Well.

Sintra’s landscape, dotted with palaces and forests, makes it a peaceful and safe destination for solo travelers looking for a day of exploration and wonder.

Algarve

The Algarve region in southern Portugal is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back coastal towns.

As a solo traveler, I found Lagos and Faro to be welcoming and easy to navigate.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, from kayaking through the Benagil caves to hiking along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

The Algarve’s stunning coastline is perfect for relaxing or trying water sports, and the locals are super friendly.

Coimbra

Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Coimbra is a hidden gem for solo travelers who love history and culture.

I enjoyed visiting the Joanina Library, which is breathtaking, and walking around the Botanical Gardens.

The city has a laid-back vibe, and you can easily spend a few days exploring its historic streets.

Coimbra is less crowded than Lisbon or Porto, making it a peaceful retreat for solo travelers who prefer a slower pace.

Évora

Located in the heart of the Alentejo region, Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage city full of fascinating historical landmarks.

I was captivated by the Roman Temple of Évora and the eerie Chapel of Bones.

The city’s compact size makes it perfect for solo exploration, and it’s easy to spend a day or two immersing yourself in the quiet charm of this ancient city.

The peaceful streets and slower pace made me feel at ease as a solo traveler.

Cascais

Cascais is a coastal town that’s ideal for a relaxing solo getaway.

It’s just a quick train ride from Lisbon, but it feels worlds away with its beautiful beaches and charming streets.

I enjoyed walking along the seaside promenade, visiting the Boca do Inferno cliffs, and spending a day lounging at Praia da Rainha.

Cascais is a safe and welcoming spot for solo travelers who want to unwind by the sea.

Madeira

An island paradise for nature lovers, Madeira offers solo travelers a chance to escape into lush greenery and rugged cliffs.

The island is perfect for hiking, with trails like the Levada Walks offering stunning views.

I also loved visiting the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The island’s unique landscapes and friendly locals make it a fantastic destination for solo travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Azores

The Azores, a group of volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for solo travelers.

I was blown away by the natural beauty here, from the Sete Cidades crater lakes to the geothermal hot springs of Furnas.

The islands are perfect for solo adventurers who love hiking, whale-watching, and exploring remote landscapes.

The Azores are quiet, safe, and full of opportunities for self-reflection and connection with nature.

Aveiro

Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a charming coastal town with picturesque canals and colorful moliceiro boats.

As a solo traveler, I found Aveiro easy to explore by foot or by taking a relaxing boat tour through the canals.

The city’s Art Nouveau architecture and salt flats give it a unique character.

It’s also home to some of Portugal’s best seafood, which I loved trying at the local restaurants.

Best Hostels in Portugal for Solo Travelers

Portugal has some fantastic hostels that cater to solo travelers. Here are a few:

• Selina Lisbon – Starting at €20/night, it’s a trendy spot with a great community vibe. Perfect for meeting other travelers.
• Yes! Lisbon Hostel – Around €25/night, offering free walking tours and group dinners, making it easy to make friends.
• The Passenger Hostel, Porto – Located in an old train station, prices start at €18/night. It has a social atmosphere and stylish rooms.
• WOT Lagos Montemar – Prices from €30/night in the Algarve, great for budget travelers.
• Home Lisbon Hostel – Around €22/night, with “Mamma’s dinners” that make you feel like part of a family.

How to Get Around Portugal as a Solo Traveler

Getting around Portugal is easy and affordable. I mostly used trains and buses, which are reliable and connect all major cities.

For short distances, Uber is available in most cities, and it’s a safe option for solo travelers.

If you plan to visit multiple cities, the comboios (trains) are your best friend.

Renting a car is also an option, especially if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path spots like the Algarve or Sintra.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Portugal?

Yes, I highly recommend having travel insurance when traveling to Portugal.

It gives you peace of mind in case of emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

Medical care is excellent in Portugal, but insurance ensures you’re covered for unexpected expenses.

When is the Best Time to Visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal for solo travelers is spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower.

Summer can be very hot and busy, especially in Lisbon and the Algarve, so I personally avoid it.

The Best Travel Apps for Solo Travel in Portugal

Here are some travel apps that helped me navigate solo travel in Portugal:

• Maps.me: For offline maps. It’s great for solo travelers who might not always have internet access.
• Google Translate: Though English is widely spoken, this app helped with Portuguese phrases.
• Moovit: For navigating public transportation in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
• Uber: It’s widely available and safe for solo travelers.
• Revolut: A great app for managing travel money and avoiding fees.

Tips for Solo Travel in Portugal

• Learn basic Portuguese phrases – Though many people speak English, locals appreciate when you make the effort.
• Pack light – Portugal’s cobblestone streets and hilly terrain, especially in Lisbon, make it easier to travel with a small suitcase or backpack.
• Stay in social hostels – It’s a great way to meet other travelers.
• Explore beyond the cities – Portugal has beautiful countryside and coastal areas.

Is Portugal Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Absolutely! Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe for solo female travelers. I always felt comfortable walking around both during the day and night.

The locals are friendly, and I didn’t encounter any major safety concerns. Like any destination, use common sense and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas after dark.

Yoga Retreats in Portugal

Portugal has become a hotspot for yoga retreats, especially along the Algarve coast. One great option is Vale de Lama Eco Retreat in Lagos, which offers week-long retreats starting at €800.

Quinta Da Luz, also in the Algarve, combines yoga with surf lessons starting at €600 per week.

FAQs

• Do people speak English in Portugal?
  Yes, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few Portuguese phrases is helpful though!
• Is Portugal expensive for solo travelers?
  Portugal is quite affordable compared to other European countries. You can easily travel on a budget.
• What should I pack for Portugal?
  Comfortable walking shoes, especially for Lisbon’s hilly streets, and layers for cooler evenings.

Conclusion

Solo travel in Portugal is an amazing experience! The country offers a perfect blend of safety, beautiful landscapes, and solo-friendly destinations.

Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Lisbon or relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve, Portugal has something for every solo traveler.