Portugal: A Trip I Didn’t Expect to Fall in Love With
Portugal was never at the top of my list to visit, and boy, what a mistake that was.
A Country I Didn’t Expect to Fall For
From the second I arrived, it felt like a second home — the kind of place I wanted to keep returning to, forever. I wasn’t expecting to feel that way about a country I’d barely planned for, but Portugal has a way of pulling you in fast.
Color, Tile, and the Influence of Morocco and Spain
The influence from nearby Morocco and Spain meant Portugal was full of color: beautiful tiles on every building, rich textiles in the markets, and a visual texture that made even a simple walk down the street feel like sightseeing. The beaches were all nice sandy coves beneath grassy cliffs, sheltering you from any breeze — some with a relaxed, clothing-optional culture, and I always felt safe.
From Lisbon to the Coast
We traveled from Lisbon down south a few hours and explored several cities along the way, staying at a farm a couple hours south of Lisbon and making daily trips to local beaches. Rooftop seafood, shopping, and exploring the tile building exteriors were a few of my favorite things here — simple pleasures that added up to one of my favorite trips.
If Portugal isn’t already on your list, let this be the nudge. It wasn’t on mine either, and now I can’t stop thinking about going back.
Frequently asked questions
Is Portugal worth visiting?
Absolutely — between the colorful tiled architecture, sandy coastal coves, and easy day trips south of Lisbon, it’s a country that tends to exceed expectations.
What’s a good home base for exploring southern Portugal?
Staying outside Lisbon, a couple hours south, makes it easy to reach several coastal towns and beaches on day trips.
What food should I try in Portugal?
Rooftop seafood is a must — fresh, simple, and usually served with an incredible coastal view.
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