If you're dreaming of sunny days, custard tarts, and a glass of vinho verde, Portugal should be right at the top of your slow travel list. It’s the kind of place where lazy beach days blur into spa afternoons and wine-fuelled evenings, tricking you into thinking you’ve retired early and moved to the coast.
The Algarve coast is ideal for anyone in desperate need of a lie down and a strong coffee. It’s got the lot: golden beaches, sleepy towns, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting. Every day feels like pressing pause on real life to do something more fun—like deciding between another beach walk or your second pastel de nata of the day.
Portugal is all about taking it slow, with plenty of time for naps, snacks, and doing absolutely nothing. Your biggest decision? Beach or café. Spa or market. That linen dress or the other linen dress. From cobbled street strolls to long lunches under the sun, it’s the kind of break that leaves you wondering why you don’t move here.
So, what’s there to do? Where should you stay? And most importantly, what do you pack when you want to look great and be comfortable while doing next to nothing? Let’s get into it.
Where To Stay
The beauty of Portugal is that it’s easy to get around, whether you want to visit all the major cities or explore the quieter towns. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, but if you want a bit more freedom, renting a car is a better option. This makes choosing where to stay a whole lot easier—you don’t have to stress about being too far away from anything.
Renting a luxury villa in Carvoeiro is a solid choice if you’re after a laid-back holiday with plenty of things to keep you busy. This little fishing village may have a chilled vibe, but everything you need is within easy reach: supermarkets, waterparks, golf courses, and clubs. And when it’s time to unwind, the stunning beaches, dramatic rock formations, and hidden caves will have you feeling like you’re starring in your very own adventure film.
If you want to really spoil yourself, Portugal’s medical spa retreats are where it’s at. These all-inclusive wellbeing escapes offer everything from personal training and lifestyle coaching to green juice, indulgent massages, and facials that’ll have you glowing for weeks. It’s the kind of place where you can vanish from the world for a bit, reset your routine, and come back feeling like the best version of yourself.
What To Do
Take a Scenic Train Ride
If you want to feel like the main character in your own travel movie, catch the train from Lisbon to Cascais. This coastal route will have you staring out of the window in awe, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic beach cliffs, and quaint fishing villages dotting the shoreline. Once you reach Cascais, you’ll be greeted by a charming seaside town, where fresh food and ocean views are served up daily. It’s the perfect blend of laid-back adventure, ideal for anyone embracing the art of slow travel.
Admire the Street Art
Forget guided tours—get lost in Lisbon's neighbourhoods and you’ll find yourself in an impromptu street art tour. The city’s walls are covered in murals and modern art, making every corner a surprise. It’s a great way to explore the city while sneaking in some culture. But the real benefit is that you’ll also discover indie shops, local markets, and bakeries serving up the all-important pastel de nata.
Explore the Caves
If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to explore a secret underground world, the Grutas de Mira de Aire is your answer. As Portugal’s largest cave system, it’s a labyrinth of rock formations and underground lakes that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. So, if you’re into discovering places that are a little off the beaten track, these caves are worth visiting. You might leave a little dirtier, but you’ll definitely leave amazed.
A Travel Capsule for Portugal
- Blazer
- Cardigan
- Knitted Vest
- Sheer Shirt
- Print Shirt
- Milkmaid Blouse
- Linen Trousers
- Slip Dress
- Midaxi Dress
- Sandals
- Trainers
- Handbag
- Sun Hat & Sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Birth Flower Necklace
What To Pack
Depending on when you visit, temperatures in Portugal can easily soar to over 40ºC—so, don't plan any high-energy activities during the hottest part of the day! In fact, many locals don’t even venture out around midday. Nights stay warm, but the breeze can sometimes be a bit too much, so keep that in mind when planning your evenings.
Light, breathable clothing is your best friend here. Think dresses, t-shirts, tanks, and flowy blouses that you can layer if needed. But a word of warning—when you’re near the coast, the wind can pick up, so pack a pair of bike shorts for extra comfort under your outfits.
Portugal’s beaches are legendary, so don’t forget your swimsuit. If you’re hitting the Algarve, the water will be pleasantly warm. But the south can get surprisingly chilly, even in summer. The best time for a refreshing dip is at sunset, when the water’s had time to warm up and the sand is cool enough to walk on without roasting your feet.