travel fashion girl portugal

2022 Women’s Packing Guide: What to Wear in Portugal this Summer

I have a love affair with Portugal and because my husband is Portuguese, I have had the pleasure of visiting many times. For my first trip, I spent a ridiculous amount of time wondering what to wear in Portugal. Now, I have it nailed. I can go for 2 or 3 weeks in a carry-on suitcase and have the clothes for all of our activities.

What to Wear in Portugal: A Trip to Lisbon, Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Algarve

Like all my trips I start with the 54321 Travel Capsule. (Check out this method of packing and get a free printable HERE ).

The four primary steps of planning this type of capsule wardrobe are:

Know what types of activities you will be doing
Research the weather
Choose a color palette and plan your mix and match capsule
Add in your toiletries and other necessities

Portuguese Style: What to wear in Portugal

Portuguese style for day-to-day is “Snappy Casual”, meaning Portuguese people are very put together and have an elegant sort of style, but don’t dress super formally. (Unless is it a fancy occasion, in which case they take “formal” very seriously, but that’s a whole different post). In Lisbon you will see people dressed for city life. Suits if they are going to work, and well put together if they are just out and about town and casual. Beach towns like Porto Santo and the Algarve are quite casual, sundresses and Birkenstocks can be seen everywhere, at every time of day.

Lisbon Activities

Lisbon is my favorite European city, it has so much to do and see. Regardless of the season, your visit will include a lot of walking so make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes. You may find yourself visiting the Castelo de Sao Jorge, wandering the cobblestone streets of Chiado and Bairro Alto, exploring the waterfront near Belem, or taking day trips to Sintra or Cascais. You will certainly enjoy the delicious food, and maybe even an evening of fado.

Madeira Activities

Madeira is about a 90-minute flight from Lisbon, and it is where I truly began to love Portugal. Madeira is both the name of an archipelago and the name of the primary island in the group. It was formed by volcanos, and so has extremely hilly terrain. Your activities may include exploring the vibrant capital city of Funchal, taking a gondola up to the Monte church, and a toboggan ride down the hill. You may do a day hike on the extraordinary system of Levada trails, and you will likely have some good ole pool or ocean time.

Levada Walk in Madeira Portugal | ShePacksLite.com

Porto Santo Activities

Porto Santo is an additional island in the Madeira archipelago and a summer destination with a 7 mile stretch of beach on one side of the island. Madeirensas flood to Porto Santo in the summer, mainly August, but you also run into other nationalities when you are out and about. There is a small city center, which is most hopping after dinner with families meeting up to socialize. The island itself has a seven-mile stretch of beach, and many people consider the sand to be healing.

A quick note on timing for your days: The Portuguese don’t go to the beach before 2 or 3 in the afternoon because the sun is so intense, and it is not uncommon to stay at the beach until 7 or 8. At that point you had back to your rental, shower and head out to dinner around 9 or 9:30. And, they go to the beach on both sunny days and cloudy days. They simply bring a good book and enjoy the sea. The island itself is casual, so your days will be chill, and your clothes reflect that. Beach clothes during the day and a sundress or casual summer outfit at dinner are the norm. Evenings can sometimes become cool so it is always good to have a light jacket.

Algarve Activities

The Algarve has a variety of beach towns complete with miles and miles of beautiful beaches. When you are there you may find yourself relaxing on the beach or doing any number of water sports so a bathing suit or two is an absolute necessity. You may explore one of the many villages or towns, horseback ride, or play golf. You can find marinas with restaurants and Blue Flag beaches. Really, the possibilities are endless.

Portugal typically has good weather in the summer months, with slight regional differences. You will find lots of days of sunshine, very few, if any rainy days. That said, I always bring a nice lightweight raincoat just in case. Before your trip, I always recommend checking the weather .

Summer days in Lisbon can be HOT. You will find the average daytime temperatures to be 80 degrees f or higher. There are very few days of rain, if any. The evenings can cool to the mid 60s at this time of year as well. I always have a light cardigan or wrap in my travel wardrobe. The evening often cools off so it is good to have one in your bag.

Funchal, the capital city of Madeira is often in the mid 70s and has that same cooling off in the evening. If you venture out of the city and into the hilly terrain, you will find microclimates where it can be cooler and maybe even a little rain. Bring an extra layer and a light rain jacket on those excursions just in case.

Porto Santo

Expect warm days in Porto Santo during the summer. The average temperature in July and August is ranges from high 70s during the day to high 60s in the evening. The evening breeze brings cooler temperatures than the day, but it is still quite mild. I like to have a nice lightweight raincoat/windbreaker in case the wind picks up.

The summer months are hot and sunny with daytime highs in the 80s. Evenings are milder and can be breezy, so like the other areas, having a light jacket is a good idea.

Portugal Packing List: What to Pack for Portugal in July

First things first, let’s start With Your 54321 Travel Capsule Wardrobe

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Some of the items in the image are no longer available so these links represent similar finds

Start Your Packing: Choose your color Pallette

As I am thinking through what to wear in Portugal, or any trip for that matter, I choose a palette for the colors of my clothing. I also plan to pack in a way that I can have light layers for temperature changes and different activities.

5 Tops: For this trip, bring 2 sleeveless tops that match your bottoms, a graphic tee, a white and navy striped top with 3/4 or long sleeves, and a denim shirt for layers.

4 Bottoms: Crop Pants, long skirt

3 Dresses or Jumpsuits: One black and lightweight jumpsuit, one breezy sundress and one maxi that can be dressed down for the beach and up if you need a nice dress

3 Shoes: A pair of sandals or flip flops, comfortable shoes like sneakers that go with all your outfits, and some neutral flats are all you need.

2 Swimsuits: One you can wear and one can dry for the next day

2 Bags: One crossbody purse for sightseeing and a beach bag

2 Hats: One sun hat and one baseball cap, both that match your color pallette

1 Each: Cover Up, Scarf, Sunglasses, Earrings

Other Travel Necessities

Hopefully, with the list above, you have a solid idea of what to pack and what to wear in Portugal in summer. Now let’s turn to the rest of your packing. In addition to your Travel Capsule Wardrobe, you will need the following items:

Workout wear
Running Shoes if Necessary: I usually bike in the gym or walk while traveling. Therefore my Taos sneakers are all I need
Electronics and Cords
A book or Kindle
Day Bag: No need to take an extra one, your personal item from your flight is your day bag

Finally, do not forget the sunscreen. I take a small tube that will fit in my carry-on and then buy a bigger bottle there. Use this list as a great jumping-off point and customize it to your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions: What to Wear In Portugal

What clothes to wear in lisbon.

In the cities, Portuguese style for day-to-day is “Snappy Casual”, meaning Portuguese people are very put together and have an elegant sort of style but don’t dress super formally. (Unless is it a fancy occasion, in which case they take “formal” very seriously, but that’s a whole different post). In Lisbon, you will see people dressed for city life. Suits if they are going to work, and well put together if they are just out and about town and casual. Because of the cobbled streets, I advise you to leave the heels at home. A pair of sturdy sandals is a better bet.

What should I wear in Porto?

The same “Snappy Casual” style you find in Lisbon will be in Porto as well. Portuguese people are very put together and have an elegant sort of style but don’t dress super formally. (Unless is it a fancy occasion, in which case they take “formal” very seriously, but that’s a whole different post). In Porto, you will see people dressed for city life. Suits if they are going to work, and well put together if they are just out and about town and casual. Like Lisbon, pack shoes that can handle uneven surfaces. Comfortable sandals or comfortable walking shows will help you get through long days of sightseeing.

What clothes to take to the Algarve?

The Algarve is a beach destination, and therefore much more casual than the larger cities of Lisbon and Porto. There are a huge variety of activities in the Algarve besides the beach, so before you pack have a good idea of what activities you will do. Then, pack a beachy travel capsule that will allow for whatever other activities you decide to do. If you need help with creating a travel capsule wardrobe, you can check out this post for help! Whatever you do, do not forget to pack sunglasses!

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Ultimate Girl’s Guide to Portugal Travel!

by Noelle Bertram | Aug 12, 2019

Ultimate Girl’s Guide to Portugal Travel

Portugal is one of my favorite countries in the world . And it’s one of the most under-rated. Within the geographically-blessed continent of Europe, Portugal often takes a back seat to the pleasures of Italy , the famous landmarks of France , & Spain’s exciting cities. But Portugal offers much of the same: with more down-to-earth charm & a lower price tag. And with regards to solo female travel, Portugal is the #3 safest country in the entire world !! Which is great if you’re setting out on your first solo adventure ~ or simply if safety is a concern to you. Let’s get more into specifics in this “ Ultimate Girl’s Guide to Portugal Travel!”

Portugal takes the cake for being one of the most relaxed, unpretentious, & beautiful countries in Europe (photo above is of Lisbon). And it’s also the third safest country in the world, making it ideal for female travel.

**Author’s Note : Article updated as of December 2022.

When I think of Portugal, I think of bright yellow buildings & white cathedrals, & the seven hills of Lisbon ~ a place that reminds me of San Francisco, with its steep hills & breathtaking views. Yet it’s significantly cleaner & definitely has more charm . Then there’s Sintra, about 45-minutes from Lisbon, with its beautiful views & sumptuous palaces. You may want to stay awhile, unless you feel like heading to the beach…in which case, the Algarve is where you’ll want to go ~ Portugal’s famous southern coast line. Or if wine-tasting is more to your liking, head up to the Porto region, & visit some of its wine cellars or the many vineyards in the surrounding Douro Valley.

All of this & more awaits you in underrated & laid-back Portugal!

Portugal was one of my first trips as a young college-age girl ~ & I found it very non-intimidating for female travel (minus trying to drive a stick shift thru Lisbon)! I HIGHLY recommend Portugal for female travel, as its people are very pleasant & unassuming.

Map of Portugal

The algarve, temple of diana in evora, portugal travel overview.

Safety = VERY Safe! In fact, Portugal is the #3 Safest Country in the World! 99% 99%
Cost = One of the cheapest destinations in Western Europe 40% 40%
Adventures = Plenty ~ though most are of the more relaxed variety: wine-tasting, beach-combing, castle-gazing, etc. 85% 85%
How Safe I Felt as a Female Traveler = VERY Safe 99% 99%

Portugal Travel Quick Facts

Portugal in One Word = Underrated.
Portugal in One More Word = Bright.
Wi-Fi = Wi-Fi is available in Lisbon & major cities, but is harder to find in more rural & off-the-beaten path places.
Global Peace Ranking = #3 out of 163 countries (U.S. is #103) = One of the SAFEST countries in the entire world, & the safest country in all of Europe ~ except for Iceland.
Hotels = Considerably cheaper than most of Western Europe, & generally cheaper than the U.S.
Must-Do’s = Wander Lisbon’s colorful streets. Listen to Portugal’s signature fado music in Lisbon’s lively Barrio Alto. Marvel at the beautiful yellow Pena Palace in Sintra . Fly out to the Azores. Sip wine & admire the beautiful tile work in Porto . Find the Temple of Diana in Evora. Rent a car with Auto Jardim & meander your way through the peaceful countryside. Stay in a Portuguese castle, called “Pousadas” ~ such as the stately Pousada Castelo Alvito .
Is Portugal Good for Solo Travelers = YES!! Portugal is at the top of my list for solo travel ~ in terms of both safety and price. And typically, it’s not overwhelmed with tourists, which is a plus for the independent traveler. The only detractor is that Portuguese is a difficult language to pick up, & most locals don’t know English.
What to Expect as a Female Traveler = Expect bright buildings, a laid-back vibe, & friendly locals who are helpful, even if they don’t fully understand you! You may experience rowdy youngsters in the Barrio Alto (Lisbon’s lively, central bar district) ~ but other than that, Portugal has a very relaxed, non-machismo vibe.
Would I Go Back = Yes!!! I could see myself retiring here…

Photos of Lisbon, Portugal

I’ll never forget the first moment I set foot in Lisbon : my friend Lea & I disembarked from a local train, & literally felt the city vibrating beneath our feet. It felt like there was a stampede going on. We looked at each other in confusion: what the heck was going on??! The year was 2004, & there was a minor little event called the Euro Cup taking place (which we knew nothing about)….& the city was absolutely vibrating with pandemonium & excitement.

What I learned : Portugal is pretty much always relaxed ~ except when it comes to football (aka soccer)!! That trip still remains one of the best & most serendipitous trips I’ve ever taken, where everything seemed to fall exactly into place….

Literally STumbling into the Euro Cup, which was being hosted by Portugal, was one of the most fortuitous travel “mistakes” I’ve ever made…& we also stumbled into these killer seats somehow!

Lisbon is a city of many hills, & the views you get from hilltop perches are phenomenal.

If you don’t feel like walking uphill ~ hop on one of Lisbon’s many cable cars…

Bustling restaurants with sweeping sea views abound in Lisbon…

Taking a Trip Around Portugal….

Now, let’s leave the capital of Lisbon & venture further out: to the whimsical Pena Palace in Sintra, then up north to Portugal’s wine capital, Porto. Next, we’ll head down south to Portugal’s glamorous beach resorts in the Algarve, & finally, travel even further afield to the island of Madeira ….which has an otherworldly beauty all its own.

And keep in mind while you’re making your Portugal travel plans: something particularly unique to Portugal is their network of pousadas throughout the countryside. Pousadas are historic properties ~ some were former monasteries, others were castles or palaces in the past, & the wonderful news is: you can STAY in them now!! I’ll never forget, my friend & I booked one in a remote part of the country, & as we drove our rental car up the major hill to reach it: we looked at each other like, “ Where are we ??!” The grand property is still one of my most memorable, if slightly haunted, European hotel memories!

About 45 minutes from Lisbon, the hilltop Pena Palace in Sintra is a MUST day-tour from the city, with its distinctive bright yellow & red, Moorish exterior.

Everywhere we went, we enviously ogled the exquisite Portuguese tile work. Save room in your bag to bring some home!

Quaint Porto is known for its seaside location, cobble-stoned streets, & world-famous port wine. It’s a charming stop worth at least two days of exploring. And something about it reminds me a little bit of Venice!

Ultimate Girl's Guide to Portugal Travel, Girl Who Travels the World, Portugal

Albufeira, Portugal is one of the most popular cities in the region known as the Algarve, which encompasses most of Portugal’s southern, coastal region.

Ultimate Girl's Guide to Portugal Travel, Girl Who Travels the World, Madeira, Portugal

Stunning Madeira, an archipelago comprised of four islands, is a 90-minute flight from Lisbon.

Madeira isn’t the only island chain off of Portugal: so are the exotic Azores…

Thanks for reading this “ Ultimate Girl’s Guide to Portugal Travel !” Whether you’re looking for a safe, relaxed place to embark on your first solo travel journey, or you’re a couple looking for a romantic & understated adventure ~ Portugal is sure to delight. Ask me any questions in the comments below!

Read Next: Where Did Colton The Bachelor Stay in Portugal?

Photos to Inspire Your Portugal Vacation, Girl Who Travels the World

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The Fashion Girl’s Guide To Lisbon, Portugal

Situated west of Spain and along the Atlantic ocean, Portugal is a European country that should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Lisbon, the capital, is a hilly, seaside city adorned in Portugal’s famous ceramic tiles (called azulejos )—these tiles feature prominently on the pastel buildings that span the city, and are also used as decoration on street signs and in railway stations. Cobblestone streets, Gothic-style architecture and sweeping ocean views complete the aesthetic allure of this European city. And it has more to offer than just looks—the city is steeped in culture and history, from the museums to the food to the fado (the country’s beautiful, melancholy music).

Here, where to eat, stay, drink and visit in Lisbon, Portugal.

Travel Guide: Lisbon, Spain

Where To Stay

Memmo Alfama : A neutral color palette (think beige and gray) and natural wood accents decorate this hotel, located in Lisbon's historic Alfama quarter. The outdoor bar and stunning views of the city from the rooftop are not to be missed.

Palacio Belmonte : The building dates back to 1449 (it was the home of a noble family), and the 11 luxurious suites are decorated with antiques from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Santa Clara 1728 : This hotel used to be a palace (sold)—so, obviously, the building is dreamy. Each of the six suites are spacious and romantic, the staff is friendly and the breakfast is, in a word, delicious.

Where To Eat

Belcanto : José Avillez's wildly creative, yet refined, menu makes this Michelin-two-starred restaurant a can't-miss when you're in Lisbon.

Augusto Lisboa : This unpretentious tapas bar/bistro is nestled in the back streets of the city. Stop in here for a casual breakfast or lunch.

A Taberna da Rua das Flores : Arrive right when this tiny restaurant opens to ensure you get on the list (they don't take reservations). An ever-changing menu of small plates made with seasonal ingredients, local wine selections and creative cocktails make the wait totally worth it.

Where To Drink

Ginjinha Sem Rival : Go to this small, traditional bar to taste ginja, a classic Portuguese sweet cherry liquor.

Pensão Amor : Enjoy an array of expertly-mixed cocktails in this intimate bar. The elaborate decor nods to the building's past as an 18th century bordello.

Pharmacia : Technically this is a restaurant, not a bar, but the cocktails are amazing. Each one is named after a drug (morphine, LSD, etc), and served in a beaker.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos : This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the top attractions in Lisbon. The ornate monastery is done in Manueline-style architecture, and is breathtaking to look at.

Museu Nacional das Coches : Transport yourself back in time, to when people (mostly really rich people) travelled by ornate coaches. This museum is dedicated to those, and here you can gaze upon the coaches actual kings and queens rode in. Sr. Fado : Fado (meaning "fate") is a type of beautifully melancholy Portuguese song, that features a singer typically accompanied by mandolins or guitars. The best place to experience it is in this intimate house, owned by fado singer Ana Marina and fado violinist Duarte Santos.

What To Pack

May to August and November to February are the best times to travel to Lisbon. Sunny temps and festivals abound in the former; in the latter, you'll find mild temperatures and lower prices for airfare and hotels.

What to Wear in Portugal

Top style tips for portugal.

Portugal has so much to offer and what you pack will depend on when and where you go . A week in the Algarve in the summer requires a different approach to a city break, so see below for specific advice on popular locations.
In the cities you will find the locals dress in a smart, casual and understated elegant style. Opt for a smart casual look with nice shoes.
Jeans are very popular everywhere in Portugal, especially with younger people, but they are always smart and clean.
Also In the cities , unless you are staying at a hotel with a pool, leave your swimming costume at home – as you are unlikely to use it.
On the coast and especially in the tourist resorts of the Algarve , dress is far more casual. Shorts, t-shirts and camisoles are perfectly acceptable.
In the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) and a sunhat.
Pack sunglasses whatever time of year you go.
If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we recommend the SCOTTeVEST range. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.

Shoes to pack for Portugal

Make sure you take comfy footwear for daytime – we love Hotter shoes , for total comfort with style.
Ladies take your heels, but save them for evening dining or nightclubbing .

Clothing tips for women

Our advice would be to save your shorts and sarong for the beach , as wearing them elsewhere will label you as a tourist and skimpy tight-fitting clothes may lead to unwanted attention.
We would suggest that you pack a smarter outfit for more up-market restaurants and some great sparkly sandals. We love the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.
A pashmina is a versatile item that will dress up any outfit.
If you are going to visit any religious sites then be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs – your pashmina can come in handy for this too.

Clothing tips for men

Apart from opting for a smart casual look away from the beach there are no specific things to bring to your attention. Check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe .
If you're looking for versatile and stylish beachwear , try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts, polos and swimwear.
For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.

Pack for the weather

The winter months of November, December, January, February and March can be cool and wet , so pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella .
Remember that even if the winter months are warmer than you are used to at home, they won't feel that way to the locals. Pack warmer clothes and shoes if you want to fit in and feel comfortable, but do take your sunglasses whatever the time of year.
Dressing in layers will help you with any temperature changes.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂

Regions of Portugal

What to Wear in Lisbon
What to Wear in Porto (Oporto)
What to Wear in The Algarve

Other things to pack

If you tend to buy bottled water , consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug , and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V) .
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Shoes and cork products are great buys in Portugal, as of course are wine and olive oil – but you will need to pack these liquids in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.
A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials .

Community photos of Portugal

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Your Perfect Portugal Packing List For Women – 34 Essentials You Should Bring Along

No matter if you start packing for a trip weeks ahead of time or prefer to throw some stuff in your suitcase an hour before you have to leave, it’s important to know exactly what you need to bring to your destination. Sure, if you forget some essentials, say toothpaste or tampons, you can always buy them once you get there. But oftentimes these items are more expensive or harder to find, not just in destinations off the beaten path, but even in touristy places. The one and only surefire way to not have this happen to you is to make a list. Heading to Portugal for the first time? We did the work for you! Here’s our perfect Portugal packing list that will help you have a vacation in this beautiful country in western Europe without any frantic shopping for necessities. No matter if you are going to Portugal for a city break, or to visit the beautiful beaches, we’ve covered it all.

This post contains affiliate links. This means we make a small commission at no cost to you if you click through and make a purchase. All prices listed are accurate at time of publication.

Portugal Packing List

The best time to visit Portugal is the spring or early fall, when temperatures are more moderate than during the summer months. Pleasant temperatures make for an ideal vacation! Visiting during that time is also a good idea to avoid the crowds that storm Portugal as soon as school’s out. Portugal’s temperate climate lasts all year, so a trip there during the winter months is not a terrible idea. Few European countries can boats about such mild winters! Let’s have a look at the things you will need to bring no matter when you go, and then at the extras required for each season. We will also cover things that you should consider in advance. How much of it you pack depends on the number of days you’ll be there.

Looking for the perfect 10-day Portugal itinerary ? We covered that for you as well!

Before you go

There are certain things you should consider after you booked your trip. These are the most important ones:

1. Travel insurance

You can’t put it in your suitcase but you NEED to bring it with you! There are many important reasons to buy travel insurance , not just to secure your trip, but also to cover yourself in case of emergency. There are several ways to protect yourself and your trip. When you book flights and accommodations through a third party website, you almost always have the option to buy insurance.

However, if you want to include medical coverage, or even medical transport, you are better off booking your trip insurance with a company who provides just that. Allianz is one of the big providers for travel insurance. Here are examples of what you can get for your money:

Basic coverage includes: epidemic coverage, trip cancellation or interruption up to $2,000 USD, emergency medical/dental coverage up to $10,000 USD, emergency transportation up to $50,000 USD, baggage coverage up to $500 USD, baggage delay up to $200 USD, travel delay up to $300 USD, 24 hour assistance, and rental car protection.
Prime coverage includes: epidemic coverage, trip cancellation (up to $2,000) or interruption (up to $3,000), trip change protector up to $500 USD, emergency medical/dental coverage up to $50,000 USD, emergency transportation up to $500,000 USD, baggage coverage up to $1,000 USD, baggage delay up to $300 USD, travel delay up to $800 USD, 24 hour assistance, concierge services, a cancel anytime option, and rental car protection.
Premier coverage includes epidemic coverage, trip cancellation (up to $2,000) or interruption (up to $3,000), trip change protector up to $1,000 USD, emergency medical/dental coverage up to $75,000 USD, emergency transportation up to $1 million, baggage coverage up to $2,000 USD, baggage delay up to $600 USD, travel delay up to $1,600 USD, 24 hour assistance, concierge services, a cancel anytime option, and rental car protection.

Which option you choose depends on your comfort level, but to guarantee a headache-free trip, spend the extra money on travel insurance. Another great option (but only if you reside in the United States) is to buy travel insurance from World Nomads .

2. Credit Cards

Gone are the days when traveler’s checks were the way to go. Credit cards are a much easier and more convenient way to pay. In Portugal, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted and are both good options. You will find some places that accept American Express as well. Before you go, find out about the fees that may occur when you use your credit card in a foreign country. For us travel enthusiasts, it’s advisable to acquire a credit card that doesn’t charge these fees. Inform your bank of your travel plans. If they see unusual charges, say for a dinner in a European city such as Lisbon, they may shut off your card.

Like a lot of the European countries, Portugal is still very cash-centric. It’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller expenses. For your peace of mind, and to avoid having to immediately find an ATM upon arrival, get some Euros before you travel. In the US, the major banks will be able to provide you with Euros for a small fee. Smaller banks generally charge large fees, so if you are not with a large bank, you are better off just going to an ATM once you get there. Just be aware that withdrawing cash from an ATM will incur a fee.

Essential items for your Portugal trip

Travel documents organizer

Maybe you want to leave your wallet at home and take just the essentials needed for travel, or maybe you just leave everything you do not need at home and take your wallet. But if you want your essential documents neatly organized, consider getting a travel document organizer . It’ll be much easier to keep track of your passport, credit cards, vaccine cards, health insurance card, and all the other things you should bring along.

Never keep all your money, credit cards, and important documents in one place. A money belt is a good place to tuck away some cash etc, so in case you lose your purse or fall victim to pickpockets, which can be found basically in all big cities, you have a backup. On that note, you should opt to leave original documents in the hotel safe and carry a copy on you.

Packing cubes

No matter if you go to Portugal or elsewhere, packing cubes will be your best friend! If you travel around and live out of your bag, there’s nothing worse than clothing chaos. Every time you need something you’ll have to dig through everything, making a great big mess in the process – unless you use those neat little packing cubes to organize your things.

Toiletry bag

Get one full size toiletry bag rather than a few smaller ones. That way you know where all your toiletries are located without digging in your bag and making a mess. Get one with a hook so you can hang it up in your hotel bathroom for easy access.

Laundry bag

The one thing you want to avoid is mixing up clean and dirty clothes, because soon enough all your clothes will be smelly! A laundry bag is the only way to have peace of mind AND keep the smell in.

Cable organizer

A cable organizer is one of the most overlooked yet most useful travel accessories. It’ll not just keep all your cables in one place, but keeps them from getting tangled up and damaged as well.

Hand luggage

In order to bring just a little bit more luggage along, get a small hard side roller bag that’s suitable for hand luggage. While hard side ones are often more expensive, it’s worth it: if you sit in the back of the plane, the overhead compartments may fill up and you could be forced to check your hand luggage. If that’s the case, you can rest assured that the hard sides will protect your belongings.

Travel backpack

The perfect travel backpack is a necessity when you are out and about exploring. You need room for snacks, sun blocker, maybe a light jacket, your water bottle, and souvenirs you may buy along the way. You can also use your backpack as a carry-on bag.

If you don’t like backpacks, bringing a larger day bag is also a good option. In order to store all your belongings safely, choose an anti-theft bag .

Comfortable walking shoes

Sure, wherever you go sightseeing you’ll want good walking shoes . But Portugal has lots of old cobblestone streets, making more sturdy yet comfy footwear a must!

Bathing suit

While a dip in the Atlantic Ocean may not be an inviting idea in the winter in Portugal, your hotel may have a heated pool you want to take advantage of! Make sure you pack at least one, but better two, one piece bathing suit or bikini .

Beach cover up

No matter if you go to the beach or are just looking for a proper way to get from your hotel room to the pool, a beach cover up will do the trick!

If you are intending to swim in the ocean, it’s a good idea to protect your feet. Beaches can have pebbles or rocks that are quite painful when you step on them. A pair of swim shoes or aqua socks will keep your feet healthy.

The beach, the pool… flip flops are simply an essential item to pack!

Water bottle

Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you go to Portugal during the summer months! The one way to ensure you always have something to drink at hand is to get a water bottle with a filter , even if grocery stores left and right are selling cold bottled water. It’s not just good for the environment, but you can fill it anywhere without worrying about potable water – you just make your own! Pick one made of stainless steel that can keep your water cold on a hot day. One filter replaces 450 single-use plastic bottles! It saves you from the extra cost and hassle of constantly buying bottled water. Ideal for long days at the beach or sightseeing!

You may prefer a baseball cap or a bucket hat , but a straw hat makes you look oh so polished! And it is vitally important to keep your head cool on sunny days.

You can’t make it through a summer vacation in Portugal without a decent pair of sunglasses. Even in the off season, Portugal has plenty of sunshine, so whenever you go, pack sunglasses !

If I could tell my 20 year old self anything, it would be this: ALWAYS wear sunscreen. It protects you from skin cancer, sun burn, and premature aging of the skin. On an every day basis it’s fine to wear a face cream with SPF (choose at least SPF 30), or a tinted moisturizer , also with SPF, but in the summer time or on vacation in a sunny country, it’s crucial to up your game to a good sunscreen with SPF 50 .

Dry shampoo

If you’ve been baking under Portugal’s relentless summer sun all day, your hair has most likely turned from a beautiful mane into a hot mess. Pack dry shampoo to avoid washing your hair every day.

Small microfiber towel

Getting sweaty is unavoidable in Portugal during the summer months. Bring a small microfiber towel to wipe off that excess sweat every once in a while.

Light summer dresses

Light dresses are easy to pack and look extra cute, especially for going out to dinner at night. If you find a light dress is too chilly in the evening, pair it with your shawl (you’ll learn about that next).

The dress code in Portugal is more on the conservative side, and visiting churches or even some other monuments may require more than a tank top and shorts. But on those hot days you really want to wear light clothing to avoid overheating. One good workaround is to bring along a shawl you can use to cover up bare shoulders and cleavage. A shawl or scarf will be your best friend, helping you to respect the cultural norms and guaranteeing entry to certain places!

Thin layers

If you tend to get cold when the sun goes down, you may want to pack thin layers. A wrap or shawl is a good start. Consider also bringing a long sleeve shirt and a light cardigan .

Wrinkle remover spray

Wrinkles are the enemy of any cute outfit. No matter what you wear, if it’s wrinkled you look like you just took a nap in your clothes. Pack some wrinkle release spray to be on the safe side.

Reading material

If you have planned some time at the beach, or are traveling around the country using public transport, or if you just love to read, a good book is a must! Check out our list of the 22 best books about Portugal for a chance to get acquainted with the country you are visiting.

Keep your memories alive and fresh and write them in a travel journal !

Travel adapter

If you come from another country in the European Union, you can skip right over this. But for travelers from different continents, make sure to check if you need a travel adapter . There’s nothing worse than being on vacation and unable to charge your devices.

Small first aid kit

No matter if you head to Portugal or elsewhere, a small first aid kit should always be in your luggage!

Must-haves for off-season travel

If you do not travel during the time of year when it’s a million degrees every day, make sure to pack the items from the list below.

Light jacket

A light jacket is essential for cooler or windy days, as well as crisp evenings in the spring or fall. Bring one that’s easily packable yet stylish to enhance your outfit.

Rain jacket

If you bring a stylish light jacket, make sure to also pack a rain jacket if you plan to visit Portugal in the winter, when rainy days can occur, or if you are heading to northern Portugal. There’s a reason that part of the country is so green. A light weight rain jacket is a great option to cut down the weight in your luggage.

Light sweater

A light sweater is a good idea to supplement your light jacket.

Warm clothes

Average temperatures during the winter months (December – March) are around a chilly 50 degrees Fahrenheit (that’s 10 Celsius). Therefore, bring some warmer clothes such as jeans and sweaters . Together with your light jacket, those will keep you plenty warm.

This concludes your comprehensive Portugal packing list! The best way to make sure you have every item on your packing list is to print out the list, lay out everything you are planning to pack, and check the items off on the list.

Jenny grew up in Germany. All she ever wanted out of life was to leave and have adventures. Jenny always traveled as much as the budget would allow, and when she met her husband traveling became a full-time thing. You can follow Jenny on her blog and Facebook.

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How to Dress Like the Portuguese

They Said April 18th, 2013

By They Said

When travelling to Portugal , you’ll want to blend in with the locals as much as possible. That’s going to require you to dress like the Portuguese. If you’ve never travelled to the country before, it can be challenging to know what to wear and what not to wear. Consider this your own personal style guide so you can focus less on your wardrobe and more on what you’re seeing and experiencing in Portugal. Modern Portugal is much like other parts of the Western World. People follow fashion trends and take great care to choose fabrics and styles that fit well, flatter, and last a long time. Shopping for apparel is very important to Portuguese people. In fact, many of them save money to take vacations where they can purchase the things that they want inexpensively.

Here’s what you should wear if you’re male:

• Suit Jackets or Sports Coats • Ties • Jeans • Dress Shirts • Shorts • T-Shirts

Here’s what you should wear if you’re female:

• Dresses • Suits • Pantsuits • Blouses • Jeans • Shorts • T-Shirts • Pashmina Shawl (for covering legs and shoulders when entering a religious site)

Don’t forget comfortable footwear . This is especially important if you plan to get around the city by foot. Walking in a new pair of shoes is a recipe for disaster. You’ll have blisters before you know it and this will significantly impede the place you go and the things you do.

A good sunscreen and hat are ideal as well. The sun can be brutal in Portugal. Having protection for your skin will prevent heatstroke and sunburn. If you’re going to the beach, it doesn’t hurt to wear a cover-up and carry extra water as well. It’s the perfect accessory for warmer climates because it quenches your thirst and keeps you hydrated.

Note what other people are wearing in Portugal and then adjust your wardrobe accordingly. Although it’s very easy to spot a tourist in any foreign country, you don’t have to make it that obvious. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and flashing around your camera or cell phone.

Even after careful research, you could travel to an area of Portugal where security is lax. It’s best to be prepared by blending in with the locals. Don’t carry oversized bags or waist packs. Make sure your money and credit cards are safely kept in a place where they won’t be taken from you.

Dressing like the Portuguese is easier than you think. Refer to magazines and online fashion websites for inspiration. Don’t forget to pack the necessities when travelling to Portugal. Make sure that you have sunscreen, a good hat, and comfortable shoes. They’re essentials if you want to have an enjoyable time in Portugal.

About the Author : Terrance Richardson is a keen writer, explorer and musician. He is particularly interested in music in different cultures but is also a big food lover.

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4 responses to “ How to Dress Like the Portuguese ”

Thanks very much for sharing! I have seen visitors from the US and Central Europe who really ignored every rule of decency in Portugal.

Seriously— shorts????

Don’t wear sneakers especially the females

Thank you – the sneaker / sports shoes look was my #1 question.

Made in Portugal: 28 sustainable Portuguese fashion brands

While I talk a lot about food, travel and tiles here, I’m also passionate about sustainable Portuguese fashion and ethical brands producing things here in Portugal.

This small, highly educated country is one of the world’s top 10 shoemaking countries and is pushing innovation in textile technology and clothing. But of course, it takes more than simply making something in a European country for a brand to be sustainable and ethical. It’s why I’ve tried to include Portuguese fashion brands with strong ethical values or who are transparent about costs and their impact on people, the planet and animals.

A lot of big brands choose to manufacture some lines of clothing or use jersey, cotton and linen fabrics made here in Portugal, but it’s not always easy to find local brands with a great consumer-facing front. It’s taken quite some time for me to discover my favourite sustainable Portuguese fashion brands who make incredible clothing, shoes, bags and more right here in Portugal.

A note: Sustainable and ethical fashion principles vary from person to person. Pick your values, ditch fast fashion and shop what works for you. For example, I care about the human impact, the environmental impact and I want to buy things of a high quality that will last. It means I like bags and shoes made of real leather because it lasts a long time and isn’t made of plastic. It means I shop vintage and second-hand when I can. I also want to support the local community, so I try to buy from small makers and artisans. Your sustainable fashion principles might be different to mine. It’s trendy to be sustainable, so beware of greenwashing like when big brands say things like “vegan leather” when all they did was rename PVC or plastic. If animal leather isn’t for you, there are some cool Portuguese brands using new, more sustainable plant leathers like pineapple leather or apple leather.

Clothing brands made in Portugal

My favourite T-shirt is an ISTO tee . This Portuguese brand pins itself on transparency and tells you the cost of producing each of its luxury essentials. The range of organic cotton T-shirts has expanded to timeless linen shirts, chinos, jeans, jackets, sweaters and pull-overs for both men and women. The quality is so nice and they have a few physical stores in Lisbon too.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ISTO. (@isto.pt)

This Portuguese brand produces classic and cosy, basic clothing for men and women in mostly natural fibres like recycled wool, linen and cotton. Last year they released their first sustainability report which goes as far to detail CO2 emissions, local supply chains and the impact on communities around Portugal. They have big ambitions to become even more transparent.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Näz – Sustainable Fashion (@naz.fashion)

Inspired by life here by the Atlantic Ocean, +351 is a great Portuguese-made option for casual T-shirts, sweatpants, pull-overs and more. Founded by Ana Penha e Costa in 2015, this relaxed brand produces everything in the north of Portugal.

Read next: Made in Portugal: 32 best Portuguese Menswear Brands

Raised by two professional seamstresses called Maria, Marisa grew up impacted by her grandmothers. Her project Sienna started as a hobby and has grown into one of Lisbon’s favourite fashion brands. As far as I know she still creates all her gorgeous designs and pieces herself.

Shop Sienna

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SIENNA (@siennainspo)

Martine Love

As someone who loves all things handmade and artisanal I certainly lust after the high-quality vintage-inspired linen shirt dresses by Martine Love. Each piece in a huge range of colours is hand embroidered using traditional techniques. The result? A super personal dress unlike any other. The brand now does shirts for men and women and kaftans too.

Shop Martine Love

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Martine Love (@martine_love)

Two childhood friends – Vera Caldeira and Pedro Ferraz – fell in love with the ancient art of block printing on the trip to India. Soon after they launched this small Lisbon-based brand making shirts from the stunning fabric. Now they’ve added sweaters and pants, but everything is still made here in Portugal.

Shop Mustique

Made in Portugal sustainable Lisbon shopping at Mustique

This environmentally conscious brand creates feminine, timeless and versatile dresses, tops and pants for women. They primarily use natural fibres like linen, wool, cotton and silk to produce a limited number of garments.

Shop Mirakaya

View this post on Instagram (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); A post shared by M I R Λ K Λ Y Λ ®️ (@mirakayastore)

Created by two sisters and their mother, Guaja keeps the focus on high quality, timeless pieces. Launching an atelier in 2019, they’ve grown quite fast and have recently moved from producing everything themselves to working with local Portuguese seamstresses. They aim to create pieces that are made to last using natural fibres and no plastic packaging. Guaja garments are known for being detail oriented and well tailored – their pants are amazing.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by GUAJA. ® (@guaja.studio)

Behind Siz is two sisters with a mission. From their atelier in Sesimbra, a seaside town 40 minutes south of Lisbon, they produce seasonal collections using deadstock and leftover fabrics from local factories. Every collection comes with a message, the latest is about marine noise pollution, and all pieces are made-to-order.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕊𝕀ℤ Ethical and Sustainable (@sizbrand)

Read next: Where to find the best vintage and second-hand shops in Lisbon (2024)

Light Years Away

This Portuguese activewear brand owned by two young sisters has a focus on sustainable production and creates classic tights, shorts, tops and swimwear with fabrics made from ocean plastics. Light Years Away uses Econyl, a regenerated nylon fabric made from industrial plastic waste, fishing nets, fabric scraps and more, for its basic activewear range. Everything is made in a small, local studio.

Shop Light Years Away

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LYA | Sustainable Sportswear (@lightyearsaway)

Related Blog: Made in Portugal: Where to shop for Portuguese ceramics

Shoes & socks made in portugal.

Mixing art, travel, and fashion – these sneakers have such a great story. As the name suggests, Shoevenir creates sneakers with designs linked to Portuguese destinations. You can pick the ‘Lisboa’ pair to celebrate memories made in the capital, or the ‘Azores’ one to remember wild times on the islands. Each pair starts with an illustration from a local artist that represents the destination, then that piece of art inspires the shoes. These sneakers are made 100% in Portugal using vegan leather, cotton laces, and a recycled cork insole. Shop Shoevenir – use code ‘oladaniela’ for 15% off Ships worldwide (free)

Zouri Shoes

If you’re looking for sneakers, look to Zouri. This vegan footwear brand rescues plastic trash from the Portuguese coast and uses it along with natural rubber in the soles of its shoes, which are made in Guimarães. Beyond using canvas, they’re playing around with special vegan leathers like apple, pineapple and pine leather. When you receive your shoes you’ll also get a letter telling you where exactly the ocean plastic was collected from (by volunteers, schools and NGOs) and the person that made your shoes.

Shop Zouri Shoes

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZOURI (@zouriveganshoes)

Nae Vegan Shoes

Nae stands for No Animal Exploitation, so as you’d expect this Portuguese footwear label is entirely vegan. Founded back in 2008, the well-established brand produces men’s shoes and accessories in certified and ethical factories in Portugal. With the environment and durability in mind, Nae explores materials such as piñatex, cork, organic cotton, recycled PET, and vegan leather.

Shop Nae footwear – 15% off with code NAE15

Lemon Jelly

This Portuguese shoe brand makes gumboots here in Portugal using 100% renewable energy. Of course, gumboots are made of plastic but they do have a number of lines that close the loop on production waste and use recycled plastic waste. Lemon Jelly’s goal is to do even more environmental good, getting down to zero percent waste. The brand is PETA-certified vegan and you can send your old Lemons back and they’ll recycle them into new ones.

Shop Lemon Jelly

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lemon Jelly (@lemonjellyshoes)

This renowned Portuguese footwear brand is known for its elegant and sophisticated designs, with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and detail. You’ll find two chic boutiques in Lisbon where women can shop everything from classic pumps to trendy sandals. The majority is produced in Portugal, with some shoes made in Brazil. The price point is around €100.

Shop Zilian

There are so many amazing sock brands produced in Portugal, so I won’t list them out brand by brand. For both men and women, look to VOLTA who work with local artists and support charities with every sale. Sir Tile is another favourite – they make azulejo inspired socks locally.

For fun souvenir socks try Chule , for fun and plain business socks made in Portugal look to Captain Socks and My Travelling Socks , and for classy business socks try WestMister .

Pedemeia is a historic brand from Braga that produces a huge range of everyday and special socks, and has physical stores in big cities around Portugal and Spain.

Read next: Where to shop for vintage and second-hand clothing in Lisbon

If you love straw bags and artisans, look to Toino Abel. Nuno has been breathing new life into the old Portuguese tradition of basket weaving, fighting for fairer wages and respect along the way. Each bag starts as wild reeds collected by a river. They’re cut, dried, dyed and then woven into mats that become these box-shaped bags, completed with leather finishes.

Shop Toino Abel

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António – handmade story.

Two sisters from a Portuguese leather-making family joined forces to craft António, a brand making high-quality leather goods. Their bags are made in Portugal using vegetable tanned leather and nickel free accessories.

Shop António – Handmade Story

Victoria

This historic family business produces stunning Portuguese basket bags. The style is quite different to Toino Abel as Victoria lacquers the outside, which further protects the bag and gives them a shiny look. They also have designs that incorporate leather and sustainable vegan leathers.

Shop Victoria

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Victoria Handmade ® (@victoriahandmade.portugal)

Related Blog: 10 best souvenirs to buy in Portugal

This list of sustainable and ethical Portuguese fashion brands is really just the beginning. If you know and love a brand that makes things in Portugal, let me know in the comments below. I’ll be updating this article and creating more guides.

Keep reading about…

Portuguese-made ceramics
Vintage shopping in Lisbon
Where to shop sustainably in Lisbon
Best Portuguese Menswear Brands
Best Portuguese Sneaker Brands
Where to shop for tiles (azulejos)

Enjoyed this article? Support my work and buy me a coffee to say thanks!

February 2, 2024

Daniela Sunde-Brown

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12 responses.

I just loooved this post! Thank you!

Hey Daniela , Big thanks dear for sharing your knowledge with us. You saved my precious time. It’s a good summary of Portuguese market.

Glad it was helpful!

Great post! We’ve been getting to know Portugal a littke bit more over recent years. I used to buy coats and gilets from a UK brand that prided itself in kit made within the EU, but then they started making most stuff in China. I know my last Gilet was made in Portugal and it woukd be great to replace it – in time for winter – with another made in Portugal. Do you or your followers have any ideas? I tried looking around when last in Tavira, but no luck.

I’ve had a quick search myself after seeing your comment and I can’t find anything. I know there is some great sportswear produced here, but I’ll have to dive deeper in. I’ll keep looking and let you know if I find anything! The quality here is always better

Martin, I’ve finally come across a Portuguese-made gilet – https://www.la5emehomme.com/vestes.html Let me know if you’ve found one!

I can confirm Impetus sports range of underwear are very good quality – I use them when out walking (hiking) https://www.impetusunderwear.com/en/impetus-group/about-us_641.html In the UK they can be found here https://www.deadgoodundies.com/mens-underwear/shop-by-type/sports-underwear

Sorry, forgot – Impetus is of course Portuguese produced!

Hi Daniela, a big thankyou for all the great brands you researched for us afficionados of Portugal. Would you know of a menswear brand with a goose logo embroidered in black, on the sea green linnen shirt. A couple just back from their holidays, him wearing the nailed-it pop-over in linnen, reported they bought it in Portugal, with the goose logo on it. Eager to know if you’d extend your knowledge in vegan organic restaurant in Lisbon and share?

Hey Joe, Thanks for your comment! I think that might be this Spanish brand, El Ganso – https://www.elganso.pt/pt_pt/men/camisas/camisa-de-linho.html I’d need to do deeper research.Not sur ethey are totally sustainable, but it seems they produce some pieces in Spain/Portugal at least.

For vegan, organic, I’ve heard amazing things about Arkhe if you want a slightly fancier meal. Senhor Uva is also great

I would like to know about cork. I have heard they make shoes but I don’t know where. I have a cork handbag.

HI Elke, yes, they use for so many things. I think anywhere that sells cork bags will sell cork shoes. I’m not sure where you’re based, but I know Nae uses cork in footwear. I’d try google-ing “sapatos de cortiça” (cork shoes) and see where will ship to you. Hope that helps!

Olá, I'm Daniela

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A Portugal Travel Guide For Women: Diverse, Intriguing, Delightful

The first thing that struck me about Portugal was how safe I felt just wandering around on my own. Admittedly, I’d spent the previous year living in Caracas so the contrast was stark. Twelve years later, I still feel it’s the safest country I’ve travelled in and that sentiment is echoed by female friends who come to stay with me.

It’s also quite easy to get around, especially the more populated areas, and public transport is relatively cheap, clean and comfortable.

Oh, and did I mention how beautiful and fascinating it is? And the wine, people and food?

EXPERIENCING PORTUGAL OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Portugal may be a relatively small place but it’s so diverse that it’s hard to choose a handful of experiences.

The best time to visit Portugal is in spring or autumn. Summer is lovely weather-wise but a little crowded. Winter in Portugal can be rainy and cool but you won’t have to battle the crowds and you will definitely get SOME sunshine, especially in the South.

I would definitely go on a winery tour and start experimenting with Portuguese wines. The terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley wine region are a UNESCO site so if you can, visit one of the quintas – or wine-producing estates – with a view of the river. Even if you don’t make it up north, there are wine regions all over Portugal so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get acquainted with both table and fortified wines such as port and moscatel.

Another of Portugal’s UNESCO World Heritage sites is the Convent of Christ in Tomar . Built as the headquarters for the Knights Templar in the 14th century and subsequently enhanced with Manueline (Portuguese Gothic architecture) doorways and windows, it’s a stunning example of Portuguese architecture and much quieter than the famous Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon. I particularly like the Charola , the circular chapel with arched entrances that meant the knights didn’t need to dismount to attend mass or meetings.

Lello Bookshop in Porto: Stairway to Heaven?

Repeatedly classified as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, this lovely haven with the neo-gothic facade has two claims to fame.

The first comes from its tenuous association with J.K. Rowling, über-successful author of the Harry Potter series.

Before she became a billionaire, Rowling taught English in Porto and was briefly married to a Portuguese journalist here. As a young struggling writer, she may well have spent time in the bookshop, although she’s never confirmed it herself.

It’s easy to believe that Porto provided some inspiration; one look at Lello’s fantastic spiral staircase is a convincing argument, as are the dark suits and capes worn by the city’s students – another Harry Potter source of inspiration?

The second bit of notoriety is more recent: in 2009 the bookshop was named the third most beautiful by The Guardian, and a year later received a similar distinction from Lonely Planet.

Lello’s Notoriety: A Blessing or a Curse?

Lello & Irmão, located in central Porto on Rua das Carmelitas, has been a local institution since it was designed by engineer Xavier Esteves in 1906.

“We would spend hours here, remaking the world. It was an island of serenity, away from the busy world of Porto. But now it is ruined,” said tour guide Leonora, as shared her memories of afternoons spent in this magical place.

Ruined? Yes, she insists, because its notoriety has come at a price.

Busloads of curiosity-seekers have replaced ardent debaters, crowding the narrow steps to the point of distraction; not many are there to browse the stacks.

Initially, the bookshop battled with its newfound notoriety. While hordes of tourists milled about taking photos without buying anything, patience wore thin until angry clerks began raising their voices: “No photos!”

While the bookshop became somewhat of an unwilling cultural icon, it has adapted. It now charges a modest entry fee which can be applied to the purchase of a book. This may have helped ease the burden of fame, allowing book lovers and tourists to share the unique and enchanting beauty of this lovely venue.

―Leyla Alyanak

Porto’s Palacio da Bolsa, Where Empires Once Traded

Portugal was once a majestic trading empire with global reach, and a visit to Porto’s Palacio da Bolsa, the former stock exchange, will plunge you right back into a world of wealth and abundance.

From the outside, it doesn’t look like a stock exchange at all but more like a palace or a wealthy monastery. Started in 1842 on the ruins of a burned-out Franciscan convent, the interior was completed only in 1910, so it went through a number of architects and artists, which contributes in part to the sometimes whimsical mixture of styles.

The Palacio da Bolsa blends neo-classicism with Greek and Roman influences. There are even palladian elements, courtesy of Andrea Palladio, a 16th-century Italian architect.

The Hall of Nations is one of the Stock Exchange’s most spectacular rooms. Around the edges, you’ll find coats of arms of the many countries with which Portugal had trading relations. Whether you look at the domed ceiling, the walls or the ornate mosaic floor, your head will spin with colors and shapes.

The official descriptions talk of “a sensation of indescribable glory,” and while this may be over the top, I did get a sense of Portugal’s majestic past by looking up at the sweeping spaces.

One of the most astounding rooms – and my personal favorite – is the Arabian Room, inspired by Granada’s Alhambra, they say, but inescapably Moorish and ornate.

Although the Palacio da Bolsa hasn’t been used as a stock exchange since the 1990s, dignitaries enjoy receptions under this room’s glittering lights.

Another room that still serves a practical purpose is the General Assembly room, where the Porto Trade Association holds his annual meetings, a testimony to this once powerful trading center.

Porto was the home of Prince Henry the Navigator, whose farsightedness and financing allowed explorers to round the Cape of Good Hope and establish a sea route to the Indies, introducing Portugal to an era of discovery (and of slavery and colonialism). In these rooms, that sense of empire is all around.

―by Leyla Alyanak

Serra do Pilar Monastery in Porto is another unique building with a circular church and adjoining cloisters that form a figure eight. It’s now owned by the military so the guided visit to the dome is conducted by uniformed soldiers. You won’t get better views of Porto than from up there

Guimarães, Portugal: Women, Hearts and History

What is that saying again… Behind every great man stands a great woman?

At first sight, Guimarães is a typical town of the North: massive Catholic churches dedicated to Mary, orange-tiled roofs, stone houses and winding cobblestone streets (thankfully filled with outdoor cafés).

Already a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Guimarães was named 2012 European Capital of Culture, a title shared with Maribor in Slovenia. Both cities, coincidentally I’m sure, are staunchly Roman Catholic, societies in which women should know their place – and stay home.

Except things don’t always happen the way they’re supposed to.

Guimarães, it seems, was home to two historically outstanding women, who did anything but stay home.

The first was the powerful wife of the Count of Portuscali, Countess Mumadona Dias, who ruled Portugal’s Northwest for more than two decades after her husband’s death. Around 950 AD she founded the Monastery of Our Lady of the Olive Tree and built the Castle of Guimarães to fend off a vast assortment of threats. By commissioning a street to connect the castle and the monastery, she also gave birth to the town.

No countess, no Guimarães.

The second historically vital woman of Guimarães was Teresa, wife of Henry of Burgundy, Count of Portugal. Teresa was still young when her husband died (the women do seem to outlive their illustrious husbands) but she had already given birth to the man who would become the country’s first king.

Like Mumadona before her Teresa became a leader. She built armies and fought – and won – wars. She also took a Galician lover, whose interests she would defend (this would get her into trouble).

Teresa’s penchant for war would eventually pit her against her own son: he dreamed of an independent Portugal, while she (and her lover) wanted no such thing. (At the time the country of Portugal was ruled by the Kingdom of Leon in what is now central Spain.)

Mother and son fought and Henry won, declaring himself King of Portugal, the first of a line of monarchs who would rule for eight centuries. The date of his victory, 24 June 1128, is celebrated annually as the day Portugal was born.

Without Teresa, there might well have been no Portugal. Two women, two histories.

―by Leyla Alyanak

If you like the sound of a multi-day hike through gorgeous scenery and historical towns, you could follow the ancient pilgrim route that runs from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, known as the Portuguese Way of St. James , although I’d start in Barcelos, which is where the route gets more scenic. You can follow it to the border town of Valença or continue all the way through Galicia to the cathedral in Spain.

The beauty of this walk is that it’s well-signposted so you shouldn’t get lost and popular enough that you should meet other walkers. Local people will also understand why you’re out there walking alone and will help if you run into difficulties.

One of my favourite towns is Ponte de Lima in the Minho region of northern Portugal. Its historical centre is pretty, compact and full of interesting architecture while the surrounding countryside fills me with joy. It hosts an annual international garden festival, a wine festival and other events although I prefer it when the streets are quiet.

At the other end of Portugal, everyone raves about Portugal’s beaches , especially the ones backed by dramatic sandstone cliffs in the Algarve region . My favourite beach is actually on the west coast where the Algarve and Alentejo regions meet at Odeceixe . The river runs across the wide sandy beach and forms a lagoon at high tide and the cliff-top walks are spectacular. You’re far less likely to run into the package holiday crowd here than on southern beaches.

Here is a perfect three-day Algarve itinerary for the solo traveler – spending 3-5 days in this region will be the ideal.

An under-explored area of the country is Central Portugal. Tourism is still in its infancy so it’s easy to escape the crowds.

Go to one of the many river beaches during summer months to swim in the company of dragonflies in the shade of overhanging trees or with a backdrop of magnificent mountains. Or venture into the Lousã Mountains to discover the hidden schist villages of Talasnal and Cerdeira. If possible, try to visit Cerdeira mid-July during the Elementos à Solta outdoor art festival.

I’m also a huge fan of Sintra , the magical palace-filled town near Lisbon. Backed by woodland and full of mystery and romance, it attracts many tourists but there are ways of avoiding the crowds, such as visiting Monserrate Palace or the Capuchos Convent.

For natural beauty, the island of São Jorge in the Azores has won me over completely, especially the north side of the island which is green, unspoilt and heart-stoppingly beautiful. Lagoons, waterfalls, rock formations, tropical plants and very few people make it an ideal place to escape from the stresses of everyday life. When I’m feeling frazzled, I yearn to be able to spend a few days there alone with a book and a camera.

WHAT TO WEAR IN PORTUGAL

Packing for Portugal is similar to packing for the rest of Europe.

Whatever you do, bring comfortable, non-slip footwear . The cobbled pavements that brighten up Portuguese streets are attractive but uneven, often with gaps, and alarmingly slippery when wet. Leave your stiletto heels at home as they will get ruined.

I always carry a cotton scarf with me to help transition between changes in temperature and to cover my shoulders if visiting churches in the summer.

Another essential item throughout the year is a pair of sunglasses . You’ll be unlucky not to need them at some point.

Spending the night in spectacular Sintra? You should!

You MUST stay in my favorite guest house: São Miguel . The owner is a writer, a true artist. The interior is chock full of taste and antiques – no wonder, because her son is a world-class antiques dealer. There are NO better places to stay in Sintra! Click here to book (and say Hi from Women on the Road!)

Essentially, you can wear what you like. Skimpy tops and shorts are fine in summer, except perhaps in religious buildings. That said, if you are travelling alone in rural areas, you may feel more comfortable if you’re not baring so much flesh . Men do stare and some will make comments that you probably don’t want to understand and should ignore. Other (older) women will likely be more sympathetic towards you if you have less on show.

There’s no need to bring dressy clothes unless you are attending a special event or going to the poshest of restaurants. Smart casual or casual is fine for most situations. Scruffy is not looked upon kindly though. People here take pride in how they dress and look; they notice other people’s appearance and judge them accordingly. Some dreadlocked youths in shorts and t-shirts attended a communal lunch in my village hall and were repeatedly referred to by my neighbours as “the dirty English” even though I’m sure they had showered before coming.

CORK, CERAMICS AND PORT

You won’t be able to walk down any heavily-touristed street without seeing a plethora of cork products including purses, belts, jewellery and caps. Some of it is really well-made – just avoid the tacky stuff. There are quality crafts available everywhere if you look for them.

Portugal is also famous for its azulejos , the hand-painted or printed ceramic tiles that decorate the inside and outside of many buildings. Beautiful though they are, beware of anyone trying to sell you antique tiles – they belong on the buildings and you shouldn’t encourage anyone to remove them by buying them, especially from flea markets.

If you have check-in luggage, don’t go home without a bottle of aged tawny port , or perhaps moscatel wine. If you’re subject to hand-luggage restrictions, go for the sheep’s cheese – Azeitão or Serra da Estrela, amanteigada (gooey) if you can get it vacuum packed.

CULTURAL DO’S AND DON’TS

In cities and busy towns that are used to tourists, the normal precautions about keeping an eye on your valuables and not putting yourself in vulnerable or risky situations will suffice. Portugal is quite a conservative country so overtly flaunting yourself will attract frowns or worse.

In remote rural areas, roles for men and women are clearly defined and may appear old-fashioned and chauvinistic. As a foreigner, you will not be expected to know or respect all of these norms but at least try to greet a woman before approaching their man to avoid unintentionally alienating anyone.

Kissing is a typical way of greeting friends and family and you may find people leaning in for two cheek kisses from you when you are introduced to them. Even after 12 years, I’m uncertain about the kissing rules, which vary according to social class (snobby women tend to air kiss) and more. My rule of thumb is to go along with it but don’t initiate.

It might surprise you to know that however close the two languages, Portuguese people don’t appreciate you speaking Spanish to them unless it’s the only way you can communicate. Try to learn a few basic phrases before you go, even if it’s just please (por favor) and thank you (obrigada).

And one must of course talk about food…

The idea of eating octopus wasn’t one that initially appealed to me but somehow I was persuaded to try polvo à lagareiro , baked octopus with garlic, olive oil and tiny baked potatoes. I scrape the suckers off the tentacles unless they’re crispy but that’s a small price to pay for the delicious, slightly sweet, tender octopus meat underneath.

Something that often catches visitors unawares is the custom of bringing small dishes of appetisers to your table unbidden. If you don’t want to be charged for them, politely send them back or find out how much they cost before tucking in if you’re sticking to a tight budget. Olives and bread are usually cheap but cured ham, cheeses and octopus salads can add a lot to your bill. By law, you can refuse to pay even if you ate the food but didn’t order it but it’s better to avoid an altercation by simply waving it away.

This guest post is by Julie Dawn Fox , a British writer and Portugal travel expert who moved to central Portugal in 2007 and swiftly fell in love with the country. Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal is a valuable resource for people planning to travel or relocate to Portugal. She also offers personalised Portugal itinerary coaching and design services for discerning cultural travellers. Follow Julie on Pinterest and Facebook .

Please don’t forget your travel insurance! Women on the Road recommends World Nomads if you’re under 66 (70 in some countries). If that birthday has come and gone, click here for travel insurance recommendations that cover you at any age.

PORTUGAL AT A GLANCE

Top 5 portugal must-sees.

Pastel de Nata custard tarts in Lisbon
Francesinha in Porto
Fado music in Lisbon and Coimbra
Port wine from the Douro Valley
Colorful ceramic tiles

Top 3 off-the-beaten track

Schist villages in Central Portugal
The beautiful riverside town of Ponte de Lima in the Minho region
Palacio dos Marqueses da Fronteira in Lisbon

Women need to be aware that…

Male (and female) attitudes towards women are still outdated in some communities, especially among the older generation who lived through the Salazar dictatorship which regulated the length of women’s skirts and under what circumstances they were allowed out unaccompanied. In general, though women traveling alone should not experience problems.

You can’t leave Portugal without buying…

A replica painted tile (don’t buy the antique originals as it encourages theft) and a bottle or several of Portuguese wine.

You can’t leave without trying these 3 foods

Polvo à lagareiro (baked octopus)
Naco na pedra (steak on a hot stone)
Cabrito (roasted kid)

For even more information on Portugal

Visit Portugal – Portugal’s official tourist office
One of the best ways to visit Portugal is by renting a car – check low prices here
The Serious Eats guide to vintage port
The Rough Guide overview of Portugal and Portugalist
Check out these accommodation options in the Algarve and in Madeira , or compare prices across Portugal with booking.com

Guest Contribution by Julie Dawn Fox.

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Chic one bag travel: an interview with Travel Fashion Girl’s Alex Jimenez

9 March 2013 by Jo

Hi Frugalistas! One of the things I love to do is read other blogs about packing light. I’m particularly fond of specialist packing websites. One of my very favorite sites is www.travelfashiongirl.com , a brilliant website that combines packing light with current fashions in a mouthwateringly colourful and aspirational combination. The editor and owner of Travel Fashion Girl, Alex Jimenez, very kindly agreed to an interview for frugalfirstclasstravel to share some of her favorite tips with us.

What are your top tips for traveling light & stylish?

Plan your travel outfits in advance and choose items you can mix and match. Once you play around with the various combinations you can make, you’ll realize it’s not quantity, but quality. You can make up to 3 weeks’ worth of outfits with just ten items if you choose each piece carefully.

You don’t have to stick to one color but sticking to one color story helps you mix and match and also allows you to use prints with ease.

As far as style goes, so long as you pack clothing you feel great wearing then you will be stylish. Style is a matter of confidence, not fashion.

Many women who read my packing posts seem to struggle terribly with the shoe question. What is your strategy for choosing the minimum amount of shoes for max impact?

Shoes are always the worst because everyone’s needs vary and activities on trips differ. The magic number for shoes really is three: one for comfort, one for function, and one for fun. Then you decide what type of shoe falls into these categories depending on your itinerary.

Comfort should be the pair of shoes you can use to sightsee and walk for hours at a time. There seems to be a general consensus with Travel Fashion Girl readers that the new style friendly Crocs such as the Carlie Flats are the way to go for comfort.

The second pair of shoes should be for function and more purpose driven such as trainers or hiking boots. Merrells are very popular as they offer a trainer/boot hybrid type shoe.

Lastly, there is always room in every bag for a thin pair of flats or pretty sandals that you can wear when you want to dress up a bit for a nice dinner, nightlife, meeting, or just when you’re tired of looking like a traveler.

Find out more about these travel shoes in Alex’s post: Fashionable Travel Shoes .

What are your favorite choices for multitasking pieces that can be worn for different occasions or climates?

My favorite multi-tasking piece is a basic but chic button up top in a vibrant color like royal blue because it can be dressed up in the city, worn as a light jacket by the sea, used as a shield from the sun, and worn with a long sleeve top underneath in the cold. You can also wear it over dresses, tucked into skirts, loosely over leggings, and casually with jeans.

What is the one thing I will always find in your bag regardless of your destination?

My NARS multiple makeup stick, St Ives Apricot Face Scrub, and Abba Leave-in Conditioner. I never leave home without them. If I only had three beauty items, these are it.

What are the outfits or garments that make you cringe when see them on other travellers?

No outfit is cringe-worthy so long as the traveler is happy wearing it. If you love the way convertible pants look on you, that’s awesome. If not, then you should know it’s okay to wear regular clothing on your travels, too.

That’s why I created Travel Fashion Girl – because 5 years ago there were only travel technical clothing lists available that misled me to believe I needed $50 quick dry shirts that I never wore or that I had to buy convertible pants in order to travel. I was in for a big shock when I wanted to have drinks at a nice bar in Auckland or walk around in Sydney.

Pack clothing you feel great wearing especially because you have to wear it all the time and remember you can replenish your clothing on the road practically anywhere in the world!

What is your dream destination and your dream outfit to wear there?

My dream destinations all consist of beaches and Bora Bora is at the very top of that list! My dream outfit would be an ivory, lace trimmed shift dress with brown leather studded sandals, a fedora, and a new wedding ring to match ha-ha! 😉

Photo: destinationtour.blogspot.com

Thanks so much to Alex for sharing her experience and ideas. Do check out her site, have a drool, and be inspired to not only travel light, but right on trend!

About Alex:

Originally from Los Angeles, Alex has been traveling around the world since 2008. 36 countries and 6 continents later, she’s travelled as a tourist, a backpacker, and a vagabond.

Learn how to travel stylishly and practically on her website Travel Fashion Girl . Like Travel Fashion Girl on Facebook ; follow on Twitter ; and Pin on Pinterest .

Photo credits: Travel Fashion Girl unless otherwise credited

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Packing list for winter

Five common packing mistakes and how to avoid them

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One bag travel: the 5 things I never pack – and things to pack instead

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10 March 2013 at 9:03 am

Lovely interview!

12 March 2013 at 6:02 am

Great interview and great tips! I like that she considers no outfit cringe-worthy if the traveller is happy.

12 March 2013 at 6:24 am

Yes, I love that too! One of my 2013 not-resolutions was to not be judgmental of others’ travel choices, so I think Alex has suggested a good place to start.

12 March 2013 at 8:25 pm

I love this! I’m a big fan of Travel Fashion Girl, too. And it’s my life’s work trying to master the packing light art, as you know! I’m going solo for almost a week to Holland soon, and I’ll be packing carry on only with no husband to carry my bag, so I need to get it right!

12 March 2013 at 8:35 pm

Glad you enjoyed the post. Yes, there’s nothing like having to travel independently to hone those light packing skills!

12 March 2013 at 9:36 pm

Thank you so much for the interview! I really enjoyed doing it and I hope your readers find the tips useful 🙂 Thanks again Jo!

13 March 2013 at 6:19 am

Thanks to you too Alex! From the feedback here and on Twitter I think readers have really enjoyed the piece and love your ideas

8 February 2014 at 8:10 am

Awesome, I live there. Let me know if you need advice and if you haven’t already been in the meantime 🙂

On topic: I love this interview, her motto on outfits is my motto on travel: no form of travel is wrong as long as you’re happy (and it’s not harmful). I follow her website, and it opened my eyes really. Planning for a long backpackingtrip is very stressful for a fashionista that also wants to be practical 🙂

8 February 2014 at 12:30 pm

I’m doing much better on the ‘no judging’ thing!

Stay tuned, as I’ve got a fab post coming up of travel blogger packing tips that’s going to be awesome!

5 September 2016 at 8:52 pm

You know, I personally hate packing light and all that hype around it. I like to be prepared for everything. Now mind you, I am no backpacker, so there really is no need for it. I like to pack smart, so it really makes no sense to take 10 undies on a 3day trip.

But I basically never travel without at least one suite and chic shoes, swimwear and one sportswear outfit – no matter where i go. But then again i like to travel so much more versatile than most other people do *shrug*

10 September 2016 at 4:36 pm

How you pack is entirely your choice Norman. Personally I love to pack light, but if that isn’t your style, then more power to you.

[…] Frugal First Class Packing […]

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24 Hours in Porto: The Ultimate Girls’ Day Out

Insider Itineraries

Portugal travel expert (and long-time resident) Emily McAuliffe gives a shout out to the ladies on how to spend a perfect day in Porto. Hint: It involves cafes, beautiful sunsets, and a healthy dose of fun.

There’s only one way to see out a perfect day in Porto, and that’s by watching the sun slide into the Atlantic from Jardim do Morro. Emily Mcauliffe

On my first trip to Porto I remember dumping my bag on a hostel bed before making polite small talk with the girl I’d be sharing a bunk with. She hesitated when I asked how she liked the city. “Well, it doesn’t feel that safe here,” she replied. “At night?,” I asked. “No, even during the day,” she said. “The backstreets are creepy.”

As a solo female traveller myself, I wondered if those introductory comments were cause for concern as I looked out at a craggy, abandoned building across the street. Retrospectively, I realize how imprudent those first thoughts were, given a year later I would return to Porto to live. Porto felt so friendly and safe that I decided to move there. This feeling isn’t arbitrary, either, given Portugal was rated as the third-safest country in Europe in last year’s global peace index.

Ambling the city day after day, I quickly realized those “creepy streets” (which are rapidly diminishing with gentrification) are part of Porto’s fascinating story of riches, ruins and revival. The streets and the people are nothing but welcoming, and the city’s pace is pleasantly unhurried, making Porto the ideal destination for a girls’ trip abroad. I know you’ll find the major sights on your own with the help of a guidebook, so here are my local suggestions for spending a girls’ day out in Porto.

Morning through Lunch

Porto, like the rest of Portugal, is a little slow to get going in the morning. Breakfast isn’t a huge affair and many locals opt for a simple espresso and pastry from one of the many local cafés. If a bitter shot of caffeine doesn’t appeal, start your day at specialty coffee shop such as Mesa 325 (Avenida Camilo 325 R/C) and sit with a creamy cappuccino or smoothie and a bagel.

This cute café borders the neighborhood of Bonfim, which is a shy contender on the tourist trail, but is worth the wander for its leafy streets and Instagrammable azulejos tiles. If you’re itching to get Portugal’s iconic Insta-shot posing in front of a blue and white tiled mural, carry on to Capela das Almas on the main shopping street, Rua de Santa Catarina. Grab lunch at A Loja dos Pastéis de Chaves (Rua da Firmeza 476) to try traditional Portuguese pastries.

An Artful Afternoon

Porto is a magnet for creative types, so take some time to browse the wares of local artists and fashion designers. Your best bet is to head to the artsy hub of Miragaia and wander streets dotted with galleries and concept stores, such as Rua de Miguel Bombarda and Rua do Rosário.

Look to the streets themselves for outpourings of creativity too, as local artists freely use Porto’s cityscape as a canvas. This includes female artist Berriblue , a local Polish/Irish artist who uses bold, and often confronting, installments to publicly explore sexuality, religion and mental health issues. (Her work is regularly exhibited locally—and she’s created a luxury series of scarves using her artwork.)

If you’d rather spend the afternoon relaxing, hotfoot across town to the business district of Boavista and buy a guest pass to the underground spa hidden beneath the Porto Palácio Congress Hotel on Avenida Boavista 1269.

In my opinion, there’s only one way to see out a perfect day in Porto, and that’s by watching the sun slide into the Atlantic from Jardim do Morro. Portugal is blessed with magnificent light so sunsets are a daily attraction for locals and tourists alike. Pick up some local cheese and tremoços (lupini beans) from a traditional grocer like A Pérola do Bolhão (Rua Formosa 279) and grab a bottle of vinho verde (green wine) then roll out a picnic on the grass. The views of Porto’s staggered cityscape across the river are spectacular.

Dinner, Drinks, Dancing

Come dinnertime, there’s no shortage of places to eat in Porto. Sample typical Portuguese cuisine at Museu d’Avó (Travessa de Cedofeita 54/56), the ideal spot to try a bit of everything, as the food is served as small share plates called petiscos . Another delicious option is Taberna Santo António (Rua das Virtudes 32), positioned near a popular viewpoint along Passeio das Virtudes (wander over for a peek at the river if it’s still daylight). This place packs out fast, so make a booking or get in early.

After dinner, let the girlie fun continue at local fado show or at the elegant chapel-turned-wine bar Capela Incomum (Travessa do Carregal, 79-83). This little hideaway is tucked down a side street and is run by ex-fashion designer Francisca Lobão. Passionate about Portuguese wines, Francisca and her team will help you differentiate your Dãos from your Douros.

Ready to spin your dancing shoes? (Ideally flats, as the cobblestones aren’t friendly.) Then follow the flock to the parallel streets of Rua da Galeria de Paris and Rua de Cândido dos Reis to party. Don’t be too eager, as peak energy doesn’t strike until after midnight.

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Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are Amazon’s best-selling travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 – Learn more here
Fodor’s Paris 2024 – Learn more here

Travel Gear

Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack – Learn more here
Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage – Learn more here
Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle – Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Anna was born and raised in Paris. She studied Languages in Paris and Social Communication in Lisbon. Anna also lived in Madrid for a year. She has been to many places and hopes to go places. Wherever she goes, she always tries to experience each city as locals do. Anna usually has croissants for breakfast in Paris, takes a walk in Camden Town in London, eats lunch in Chiado in Lisbon, and enjoys Madrid's nightlife.

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What to Pack for Spain Vacations: Year Round Packing List

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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Updated in 2024: If you’re wondering about what to wear in Spain, these three travelers have the inside scoop! We have expat Brandy from It’s One World Travel who’s lived in Spain the last seven years; Lola from Miss Filatelista lived in and explored the country for nearly a year; and seasoned traveler Sebrin from The Clumsy Traveler . Read on to find out the essentials on their packing list when traveling to Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian, Valencia, Seville and other parts of Spain.

What to Wear in Spain: Packing List

Written By: Lola Mendez and Sebrin Elms

What to wear in Spain will vary based on the season and the autonomous community that you’ll be visiting. While Spanish weather and scenery may vary local style choices are based on comfort, color, and coordination. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe .

If you ever get the chance to witness a Spanish wedding you’ll see women in fashionable fancy ensembles, often combined with tocados, like a British fascinator.

Everyday style isn’t quite as avant-garde but Spanish women do like to have fun with fashion and express their personalities through their outfits. Keep this in mind when deciding what to wear in Spain.

If you forget to add something to your Spain packing list, don’t worry; most cities have a Zara or Mango where you’ll be able to stock up on Spanish duds for a fraction of the cost at home.

Spain Packing Tips

Pack comfortable, durable items that can be mixed and matched into cute outfits. Some of Spain’s most historic sites like the Moorish Alhambra palace in Granada, trekking along the seaside cliffs in San Sebastian, and visiting Gaudi’s masterpiece Parc Guell, require hours of walking.

Comfortable footwear is a must for Spain, but you can also pack a low chunky heel that can be worn out at night or for less strenuous activities.

These experts are giving you the inside scoop on their twenty-one top picks for the most comfortable shoes . Take a look!

Weather in Spain varies and it’s never a bad idea to have a lightweight scarf in your bag and on your Spain packing list. The temperature is different throughout the country. You’ll need cold weather accessories in Madrid, the central mountain areas, and the far north. In the south, you’ll need a lightweight jacket and an umbrella.

If you’re traveling to various climates in Spain, you’ll want to think of layers while building your Spain packing list. A tee shirt and jeans with low heeled booties are a great option during spring, but in the fall you may need a thick pair of socks and knit hat in the Basque Country, or a chunky cardigan layered with a heavy scarf in Galicia and an umbrella, it rains a lot there!

Read to find out how to choose the best and warmest long underwear for women !

When creating your Spain packing list, choose one base neutral colored pair of shoes–black or brown. Organize the rest of the items around what would look good with those shoes and function for the activities you’ve planned.

Having a minimalist travel wardrobe is key for a light Spain packing list. Spain is full of mainstream and unique mom and pop shops so bring fewer accessories so you have room to buy new wearable souvenirs during your trip.

Which luggage accessories and packing organizers will work best for you?

I always include aromatherapy oils on my Spain packing list. I use the natural scents instead of perfume and choose mood boasting aromas that help keep me calm and relaxed during hectic travel situations.

I also keep one in my bag and sniff it if I ever come across something foul smelling or want to smell nice unexpectedly–like when meeting a handsome Spanish barista. I use ADORAtherapy as they’re all natural, wearable on the skin, and come in travel size containers with easy to use roll-on applicators.

These are the best travel containers because you pack only what you need!

Spain Clothing Style

Style in Spain is similar to any western country, so that makes it easier to choose what to pack for Spain. Trends are no longer unique to countries due to fast fashion stores, like Spanish brands Mango and Zara.

Whatever you’d wear at home is probably equally acceptable here, but you’re on vacation so you’ll want to pack fun, memorable outfits that will photograph well.

In major cities, like Madrid and Barcelona, you’ll see women who are incredibly stylish and look like they’ve walked right out of a photo shoot. But you’ll also see lots of bohemian, preppy, punk, and conservative looks.

Personal style in Spain can vary and you’re sure to find all sorts of fashions, be inspired by your surroundings. Don’t be afraid to compliment a Spanish woman if you like something she’s wearing. She’ll probably tell you where you can get it!

When in doubt, a safe choice is wearing jeans paired with a nice top and classic flats. When visiting cathedrals, bring along a shawl or scarf to cover up and respect local religion.

If you’re planning to go out at night, then plan to dress up a bit. If you’re staying in a beach town, you can go for a more casual look.

The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video!

Plan for what to wear in Spain with this packing guide:

What to Wear in Spain in Fall

Fall is the perfect time to discover the great outdoors in Spain. The country has many mountain ranges boasting beautiful hikes! Warm tapas are made for this season and the weather will still be warm enough to enjoy your meal outdoors and watch the changing leaves.

Temperatures drop in Spain during autumn, which is from September to November, but it varies according to the location. In the north in Galicia, it can be very cold this season; in Madrid and the south, you can feel the heat until mid-October. That’s when it starts to be cold again.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
How to Layer Clothes
Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall
Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

Spain Packing List for Fall

Fall is much brighter than gloomy winter in Spain and a perfect time to wear warm hues like orange, reds, and yellows and layer with cozy separates like flannel shirts, leather pants, and denim jackets.

You likely won’t need a full hat-gloves-scarf set but a floppy wool hat and stylish blanket scarf should be enough to keep you cozy, especially at night.

Here are eight different ways to wear a scarf when you travel!

Avoid adding a bulky winter jacket to your Spain packing list by wearing lots of layers instead. A faux fur vest will keep you warm and stylish as you explore Spain.

You’ll miss out on lots of beautiful sites if you skip out on walking to and from your destinations due to the cold. Pack appropriately and always bring more layers than you think you’ll need. Don’t forget comfy shoes!

Discover our top 10 brands for the best thermal underwear for women !

When choosing what to wear in Spain, go for a tee as your base with a cardigan or button up shirt as a layering item. If it gets too warm you can wear your jacket just with the base, or if it gets too cold you can wrap up the layering item and close up your coat for extra warmth.

It is not practical or comfortable to wear heels in Spain, regardless of the season. Most local women don’t wear them out at night either so you still feel stylish and appropriate in booties or flats. Keep this in mind for your Spain packing list!

Shop the best ankle boots for fall and travel with them for just about any cold weather destination all year long!

What to Wear in Spain in Winter

Winter in Spain occurs from December to mid-March. There is a misconception that Spain is always warm. I was even told I wouldn’t need a winter jacket in Madrid. This is not true! Temperatures may not get crazy low in Madrid, and snow is really rare, but wind chill and rain call for weatherproof accessories.

Not only does it snow in parts of the country, but in January to February there’s a lot of rain showers in the north. Occasionally dry and drafty, you’d better layer up if you’re visiting in winter. A sturdy and travel-sized umbrella can quickly become your best travel mate, so add these to your Spain packing list.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
How to Pack for Cold Weather
How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

Spain Packing List for Winter

When deciding what to wear in Spain, pack at least a pair of jeans and a pair of thick leggings. If you plan to explore the north of Spain where some of the most fantastic cities are – like Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Asturias you may even want to layer your leggings underneath your jeans. Barcelona around the holidays can be so mild that you might only need a trench coat and thin wool scarf in the morning but just a sweater in the afternoon.

Spain’s many islands, like Ibiza, Mallorca, and the Canary Islands, also stay quite moderate in the winter, and can even be warm at times. You may not exactly need to add a swimsuit to your Spain packing list but you can probably at least take a walk on the beach or have dinner at an outdoor terrace near the sea.

These tips on how to stay warm in cold weather are a must-read!

Andalusia’s many historic cities are wonderful to explore in the winter due to mild temperatures but the weather can fluctuate a lot during the day, especially if you’re traveling to higher altitudes, so having a scarf in your bag is never a bad idea. And it makes for a fashionable accessory.

The cold weather accessories that you need to pack for a comfortable and cozy winter trip to Spain will depend entirely on your destination. If you aren’t sure about the weather, or are visiting multiple climates, pack a basic set of hat, scarves, gloves.

Accessories can be both practical and stylish and we’re going to show you how with these fashionable winter accessories for women !

If you like to wear shorts, skirts, or dresses, make sure to add at least one pair of thick tights to your Spain packing list to keep your legs from freezing at night. You can always buy warmer items once you are in Spain if the weather calls for it. It can be wet throughout the country in the winter months you may want to avoid packing your favorite pair of sneakers. Faux leather ankle booties with sturdy soles that can be worn for both daytime explorations and nights out and make a great addition to your outfit.

If you plan to spend time outdoors hiking, or exploring Spain’s many vineyards, a stylish pair of hiking boots will make it easier to tread through mud. Rain boots are an option too but generally a pain to pack and not really necessary as you can seek shelter indoors during bursts of rain.

Find out how to choose hiking boots and the five styles TFG readers voted as their favorites!

Thick socks are a lifesaver when trying to keep feet warm in damp weather. Pack a few pairs as they make take time to dry after a good soak and have fun by packing a few different style lengths, knits, patterns, and colors. Your socks sometimes may be the only variety in your daily outfits if you’re wearing the same coat and accessories every day!

Depending on your destination will determine what kind of outerwear you need to add to your Spain packing list. Women can be seen wearing fur jackets, while down jackets are popular for younger people. In Madrid and the north of Spain, you will need a long wool coat or down jacket.

In the south of Spain, you’ll be fine with a trench coat or military style coat worn over layers. Even if you’re coming to Spain from a warmer climate, wear your jacket on your flight to save space in your luggage.

Need a coat? Here are the best down jackets to wear over your layers!

What to Wear in Spain in Spring

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Spain. The weather is warm, but not too hot, flowers bloom in abandon, and the streets come to life with music and delicious farm fresh foods. It’s a great season for upping your style.

If you have the chance to visit a feria in Andalucia or see the patios of Cordoba you’ll get to immerse yourself in the Spanish celebrations of spring.

Madrid is also amazing to visit in the spring with trips to the famous art museums, Rastro market, and boat rides at Retiro park.

While March and April can still be chilly, it starts to warm up in May. It will still be cold during the first weeks of the season, so make sure you have a warm jacket on your Spain packing list. Warmth comes with the sun, but as soon as it disappears you can feel the draft, so it’s best to layer your clothing when choosing what to wear in Spain.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
How to Pack for Europe in Spring

Spain Packing List for Spring

Have fun with your travel outfits in the spring. Bright colors, pastels, and florals are appropriate for this season, as everyone mimics nature’s vivid colors. Long tunic tops are paired with leggings, replacing trousers and denim.

Florals are always a good idea for your Spain packing list. Try pairing a floral skirt with a striped blouse or Flamenco inspired polka dot skirt with a sheer tank to play with textures, fabrics, and patterns for a truly Spanish inspired ensemble.

Here’s what TFG readers voted on the best leggings for women who travel!

A versatile maxi dress is an ideal look for spring for exploring La Rioja vineyards, historic Granada, or the many medieval pueblos like Ronda, Toledo, Avila, and others.

Weather may be wet so opt for plastic or rubber sandals over leather goods so you don’t destroy your favorite pair. Ballet flats or converse are also super comfortable for sightseeing all day in Spain.

We’ve got a round up of cute and comfortable ballet flats to wear at home and abroad!

Dining out is popular in this fair weather, but make sure you bring along a scarf or a jacket. March can still be quite chilly so a denim jacket or blanket scarf can be a lifesaver when the weather gets crisp.

By May, the weather is already heating up and you won’t need a jacket, but will want to make sure you’ve included a swimsuit on your Spain packing list, especially if you’re heading to Malaga or Valencia!

Find out why we love these lightweight jackets for travel !

What to Wear in Spain in Summer

Spain is a vast country with different cities, vibes and ideals. But one thing is for sure: Spain in the summer is hot, hot, hot! Pair that with the millions of tourists visiting this season and it is near stifling.

Cities in the center of the country, like Madrid and Seville, can reach up to 113º F, while coastal cities are closer to 90’s. It’s also not completely unheard of to experience some rain in the beginning of June. If you have flexible travel dates, aim to go around this time. August is definitely the hottest month with record-breaking temperatures, no rain, and lots of crowds. Your Spain packing list will feature a lot of light pieces.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

Spain Packing List for Summer

Spain is a very playful and colorful location, rich in culture and traditions that are reflected in modern fashion. During the summer, you’re going to want to choose breathable and comfortable clothing to beat the heat.

But have fun with it! Wear a flirty sun dress, some cute cut off shorts, off-the-shoulder tops or a bright, colorful tee. Your wardrobe should be fun and frisky to reflect your destination.

For added versatility, these are popular convertible travel dress styles!

Sun dresses, shorts, tank tops and even crop tops are perfectly acceptable ways to dress throughout Spain. If you plan on going into any museums or churches, just be sure your stomach and shoulders are covered so as not to offend.

The evening brings a reprise from the heat, but you still won’t need any pants. Dresses or shorts with a blouse is commonplace for the club or bar scene. Again, be sure to cover up based on your surroundings.

Take a look at these sundress outfits that transform an everyday summer dress!

Sunglasses | Travel Guide | Cross Body Bag | Scarf

Spain Travel Essentials

The perfect accessories to add color to any outfit are a handbag and a scarf. You can use your handbag, belts, and scarves to brighten up an otherwise neutral outfit. Don’t forget the perfect daytime accessory: sunglasses.

The perfect travel bag for your Spain packing list is a crossbody bag . To take your look from day to night, use a removable chain or strap to transform it from a crossbody into an elegant clutch.

You must add sandals to your Spain packing list for casual beach/city days and sneakers for active wear or additional support. If you’re planning on going to a nice dinner or dancing flamenco, bring appropriate fancy shoes.

Spain Luggage Tips

So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your travel wardrobe and created a Spain packing list, now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use packing organizers , which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.

As you’re headed to fashionable Europe, use an equally stylish carry-on , such as the Osprey Ozone , which is a personal favorite. Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

Spain Accommodations

Like any major tourist destination in Europe, accommodations are aplenty here in Spain. From villas and luxury hotels to hostels and homestays, you have plenty of options to choose from. If you want to make it a real summer trip, try staying on a boat and travel from one beach city to the next.

We love Airbnb for accommodation in Spain. Sign up here for a free $40 credit! I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb.

Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com . Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers . Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.

Spain Transportation

Major cities like Madrid, Seville and Barcelona have incredible public transportation. From taxis to buses, you will find affordable transportation throughout. It’s also very easy to get from city to city. Road tripping in your own car, trains, buses and even airplanes fly to several destinations within the country.

What To Do in Spain

History and beautiful beaches are just about everywhere in Spain. And with such a diverse range of landscapes, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. If you’re looking to escape the typical tourists traps, try a day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat or Lloret de Mar.

A trip to Avila or Toledo is the perfect spot to visit from Madrid. You can even fly to the less known Canary Islands for your very own private adventure. Or you can drive from Barcelona to Gibraltar and see where the wind takes you!

If you’re looking to have a typical Spanish-style experience enjoy a flamenco show, run with the bulls in Pamplona, throw tomatoes at La Tomatina, go surfing in Mundaka, see Gaudí in Barcelona or party it up in Ibiza.

The nightlife scene in Madrid is vibrant, with most clubs getting busy around 1 AM and partiers staying until 6 AM dancing and socializing. Some clubs may have dress codes but you’ll see your fair share of locals dressed super casually, even in tee shirts and sneakers. Barcelona tends to be a bit more upscale and Ibiza is the place to see and be seen in your most stylish dresses.

If clubs aren’t your scene, don’t worry there are endless Spanish tapas and wine bars where you can spend lazy nights enjoying delicious food and beautiful Spanish guitar music. Here your outfit can be what you’ve worn sightseeing all day, or more dressed up, it’s really up to your personal preference.

More often than not you may feel overdressed but as long as you feel good in what you’re wearing and have a good time, that’s all anyone will care about.

These are a few popular Spain guidebooks:

Lonely Planet Spain
Rick Steves Spain
Fodors Essential Spain

Spain Safety Tips

Petty theft in Spain is very prevalent. In fact, the country is ranked #1 in the world for travel insurance claims. Always keep an eye on your things, and remember to pack them securely.

Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Stash Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list.

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front.

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

What is on your packing list for Spain? Share in the comments!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

Lonely Planet Spain (Country Guide)
Travel Shoes for Europe
The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate Packing List for Europe featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

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We hope this Spain packing list helps you plan your packing list for Spain. Don’t forget to share the love on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Lola Méndez is a full-time traveler sharing her adventures on Miss Filatelista as she adds to her collection of passport stamps. She travels to develop her own worldview and has explored 50+ countries. Passionate about sustainable travel she seeks out ethical experiences that benefit local communities. You can follow her on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , and Pinterest .

Author Bio: Sebrin is a newlywed, flower child, and travel-obsessed blogger. When she isn’t traipsing the globe with her husband, you can find her curled up with a book, snuggling with her kitty babies, or binge-watching Netflix. Follow along her travels on her blog or instagram !

44 Comments

I am leaving for a 6 week trip including Spain, Portugal, France, and Morocco. These articles were EXTREMELY helpful in planning my capsule wardrobe. I was so overwhelmed when I started thinking about what to pack for such a long journey, but no more 🙂

We’re visiting Andalusia in January. I loved the reminder to pick a neutral like brown or black and then one other color to build a capsule wardrobe around. But the most helpful reminder is that I can buy things there too! I don’t know I I feel like I need to bring so much when it’s fun to shop there too! Thank you!

I can’t wait to use this to start planning my capsule wardrobe for Spain next summer!

Thanks so much for providing this super useful info for travel in Spain. My husband and I will be going there mid- October and will certainly use these tips! I’ve got my travel capsule covered and am ready for adventure!

This is going to be so helpful for my upcoming trip! Thank you!!

Our Spain trip is still 3 months away but this was definitely helpful. I always appreciate advice and suggestions from those who are familiar with faraway places – and who have more fashion sense than I! My husband and I are headed to the Costal del Sol in late December/early January. (We’ve previously spent time in Catalonia and central Spain.) We plan to explore the area from Nerja to Estepona, as we’re thinking about spending the winter months there when he retires (in under 2 years!). I realize it won’t be bikini or snow suit weather, but otherwise there seems to be a very wide range of potential weather scenarios. I want to be comfortable and casual but still look nice. I’m thinking that versatility, layering, and comfortable shoes seem likely to be my best fashion strategies. Of course, I’ll also check the forecast right before our trip and adjust as needed. Thank you for all of the ideas and suggestions –

PS – I second Ávila and Toldeo. Also recommend a day in Cadaqués (north of Barcelona near French border).

Thanks for the great packing tips! I’ll be in Spain in October and hoping for some cooler temperatures!

Going to Spain in October’s, this info is all so helpful!

Super helpful general guide. Thanks!

Love being able to get detailed descriptions and suggestions for what to wear in Spain. I’m travelling to San Sebastian in October and realizing it’s definitely the shoulder season there. And that’s I’ll need booties as well as flats. Yikes, that means more to pack!

So helpful! I’m shopping for a trip to Spain in Oct-Nov. This post helped me choose LAYERS!

We are planning on visiting Seville end of March/Beg April. Are the nights cooler then and should I bring a cardigan etc Thank you very helpful website

Hi Olivia, the best advice we can offer you is to check the weather forecast at weather.com nearer to your departure dates to ensure that you have the most appropriate clothing and footwear packed for the temperature.

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their advice and experiences.

Have an amazing time! ?

Can you please tell me where I may be able to purchase the blue/grey gauzy long-sleeved v-neck shirt?

Hi Suzanne, thank you for reaching out! Are you talking about the long-sleeved v neck shirt in the capsule wardrobe for Spring, if so it looks that it is sold out. You can find some similar products here: https://amzn.to/2TOHXlh If this is not the shirt you mean, please let know? Sorry I could not have have been of more help. 🙁

These tips in the Packing for Spain list were super inspirational and helpful as I packed not only myself but my two sons (and advised my husband) for our recent trip to Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia & Barcelona. I was shocked at how perfect my soft, broken in denim jacket was for this trip, and I never would have packed and worn it, if not for your tips. I actually think I could have gotten away with two dresses, as long as one was black, but I went a bit crazy with prints…not necessary. The best accessory, aside from my scarf, was my hat (I wore it all the time, even though I’m not a hat girl at home). THANK YOU for these fantastic tips!

Hi, I read these tips with great interest but as a woman of a certain age I’m struggling with excessive heat!! We are planning to go to northern Spain where it’s slightly cooler than southern Spain -would you recommend something like a cardigan/shawl for evenings still? Then it can be taken off easily! Thanks very much

I’m making my first trip to Europe (primarily Spain) and in researching appropriate clothes for the time of year along with social / cultural norms for fashion, I stumbled upon TFG and have successfully packed for a 3-week trip carry-on only!!!

Thank you for your great tips and tricks; I can’t wait to see how it all works out (although admittedly, I did throw in just a couple extra tops and bottoms because I was having a hard time making a choice between between things like black ankle pants, black leggings OR black linen)!

I’m getting so excited for my trip and so thankful for these guides to help me from over packing! Thank you

Hey! I’m visiting Spain in the month of Novemeber,what type of clothes should I carry?

My daughter and I are planning to travel back to Salamanca, Spain next summer. This list will definitely be of good use. Wish I had found this blog before we went.

The important thing is that you’ll have it for next time 😉

Thank you for mentioning that women in Spain wear fall colors. I have been trying to decide whether my summer white pants would be appropriate in late September/early October. I guess I will stick to light weight pants in dark colors.

Hi! I am going to the Andalucia region May 16th. I’m wondering about what to wear for daytime sight seeing. We are touring Rock of Gibraltar, Malaga, Ronda, and staying in Marbella. Would fashionable capri jeans be appropriate for daytime sightseeing? I’d just like to be comfortable, while doing a lot of walking, and not overthink the fashion. I’m there to enjoy the beauty and history of the area. ?

Hi I’m going to travel to Madrid n Barcelona in the beginning of march so I should pack my stuff for winters right? Please advise should I pack some heels, long coat and tall boots or leather jackets n flats are better?

The best tip is to check the weather before you go. Heels might be tricky if you plan to walk on the cobblestone streets so you may want to save them for taxi rides in the evenings 🙂 Have fun!

Planning to travel to Spain in Oct 2017. I should be packing for Autumn right? Family of 3 with an active toddler. I will be bringing one big suitcase and one backpack. Thanks for the tips. It helps a lot to decide what to bring.

Hi Adila, make sure to check the weather forecast on weather.com now and right before you travel so you know the best way to pack. I’d assume it would be Autumn but if it happens to be hot or cold you might need to use the summer or winter tips 😉

I’ll be in Andalucia for 10 days in late Sept.(23rd) till early Oct.(4th). I’m only taking one carry-on suitcase with it’s matching mid-size carry-on bag. What are my “absolute musts” to take along for this trip? Should I be thinking to pack Spring or Fall clothes? I await your reply eagerly. Thank you.:-)

This sounds like such an exciting trip 🙂 The best thing to do is to keep checking the weather to get an idea of the climate during that time 🙂

I’m heading to Ibiza for my second trip this April (it will be my third time in Spain) and so nervous about the weather. My body and soul wants summer temps- but I’m fearing it will only be in the upper 60s. Thanks for your spring packing tips!

Have fun Farrah!

A few comments — we were in Andalucia in May, and it was 24-39 degrees Celsius the whole time we were there — hot hot hot. Espadrilles were everywhere! As were maxi dresses and jumpsuits for women.

Great tip thanks!

Great post! I’m going to be in Andalucia from the end of March to the beginning of June, and these packing tips are super helpful, so thanks! I could use a little advice though – bring my comfy tall black boots, or my not as comfy nude ankle boots? My capsule is mostly black, white and grey, with a couple splashes of color. My preference would be to have the black boots with me, but I don’t want to feel out of place with tall boots on in the Spring in southern Spain. Thoughts?

Hi Dominica, great question! ALWAYS bring the comfy shoes or you won’t be doing much sightseeing from the inside of your hotel room 😉 Bring your tall black boots especially if the weather permits it and maybe buy some new ankle boots there? Shopping is cheap in Spain!

“that’s no reason for you to walk outside in flip flops – they’re only worn inside the house here.”

Having just returned from a tour of Spain, I can honestly tell you that this is not strictly the case. Both locals and tourists alike from the north to the south, city to village, wear flip-flops outdoors … we even saw people wearing them in restaurants in the evenings (inc. men with trousers). In fact, we saw people wearing flip-flops all over Europe, including a fruit farmer in Austria! It may seem like a fashion faux pas but everyone was wearing them and nobody batted an eyelid. I was mad because I had just spent a fair few quid on a pair of wedges. It is nice to make the effort, and sandals certainly look less casual but don’t worry too much (students) if you’ve spent so much on your Global Pass/decent luggage that you can’t afford a swanky pair of sandals. It’s what you wear with them that matters. I still love you TFG 🙂

Thanks for your feedback! Sorry it didn’t work out for you.

No worries on my end – I’m just the messenger 🙂 In an attempt to offer the most accurate packing advice, I prefer to interview locals on the packing lists as I did in this case. “That’s no reason for you to walk outside in flip flops – they’re only worn inside the house here.” came directly from someone that lives there, not me 🙂

A Spaniard here. If you saw someone wearing flip-flops out of the very, very, very informal occasions, swimming pool and beach settings or houses… what you saw were foreigners (for the most part).

Right, Ella, I should have been more clear in saying that one “can” wear flip flops out in Spain – I did my first few weeks living here, but it definitely identified me as a foreigner and once I swapped them out for ballerina flats it’s been much easier to blend in.

Good point, L. I forgot to mention that wearing flip flops in beach towns is generally acceptable all summer long, until the sun sets, that is!

Thank you again, Alex for having me on here. If it’s alright with you, I am going to link this article to my AFAR Spain guide, too! 🙂

So helpful as I’m planning my trip to Spain in October!

thank you for interviewing me alex – hopefully these tips will hope ladies on their way to Spain! just love your Spring board, it’s perfect Euro-chic 🙂

Your tips are amazing!! Family of 4 packed into 1 medium size case for 2 weeks. Really helpful & money saving too as less baggage to take, thank you!

Wow Melanie!! That’s awesome!

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Authentic Stories Displayed In Style

Lisbon-Portugal girlstrip with @AuthenticChica and 10-11 travelsistas

Explore Lisbon, one of the most beautiful cities of Europe, with me as a local in comfort, with a lot of fun and a bit of luxury!

As you might know I love exploring cities and sights and really enjoy doing this with a group of girls. Last year I explored the National Parks of Croatia and Zadar with 3 likeminded travelsista’s. I regularly go on presstrips with other bloggers and ig-ers and just came back from an epic girlstrip to Istria in Croatia.

Because I also give Instagram marketing workshops and traveled to 41 countries and many cities already, for which I usually organize everything myself, I decided to combine all this in a girlstrip of my own to one of my favourite cities in Europe so far: Lisbon in Portugal!

Why Lisbon?

Because Portugal is a unique and amazingly beautiful country. It is very photogenic, diverse, safe, the people are friendly and the food is delicious.

I have been to Portugal 4 times already, but during my visits Lisbon and nearby Sintra really captured my heart, and I would love to share this with you.

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with origins even older than Rome!

Sintra is a Unesco town nearby filled with palaces and so many unique sights, making it a dream for every Instagram and photography lover!

See for yourself in this gallery, click on the arrows to slide through and get an impression of the beautiful sites we will be visiting:

Why go on a girlstrip?

Because it’s fun to travel with likeminded girls and meet passionate travel sista’s and fellow igers,

You can share to cost of a 4 star city apartment with a friend by sharing a room or make new friends by sharing,

We can share Instagram secrets with each other and practice together,

Get a 1 on 1 consult with me, in which we will discuss everything you want to know about Instagram, focus on your account and create your own unique brand,

Boomerangs are allowed all day every day😊

And everything will be arranged for you, except your plane ticket!

You don’t have to organize anything, I will find all the nicest restaurants and most Instagrammable spots for you, we will take pics of each other and together, and there is a room waiting for you in a fabulous apartment in one of the most beautiful and oldest neighborhoods of Lisbon.

Come with us and we will take many pics like this together and individually to use for your Instagram account or blog!

The focus of this trip

Practicing social media skills and photography together, incl. private sessions with me to help you with your account strategy and anything else you want to know,

Enjoying Lisbon like a local,

Discovering the most Instagrammable spots and viewpoints of Lisbon and Belem,

Visiting the Unesco town Sintra, with many palaces and photogenic sights,

Enjoying local food and drinks in quaint restaurants and on rooftop terraces with unique views over Lisbon,

And you can even have a professional photoshoot on several spots of your choosing, with at least 10 personal pics in high resolution sent to you afterwards, free to use for your own promotion.

We will be staying in Alfama , in the historic center of Lisbon, safe and characteristic, buzzing with music and life, as this is the birthplace of Lisbon and Fado music . Here we have a spacious and modernly decorated apartment to ourselves, with all the amenities you might need. Of course free WIFI, and a spacious living room from which you can admire the river Tejo from the 4th floor of a traditional Portuguese building , get an impression through this picture gallery:

We will be conveniently located within walking distance of the castle and many other authentic sights, and have space for a maximum of 10-12 girls , staying in 6 bedrooms with single beds, 5 bathrooms, 2 fully equipped kitchens, and a comfortable living with balcony and dining room.

The perfect place for a group of travelsista’s who want to experience the REAL Lisbon in comfort with a bit of luxury.

Please note that this apartment has free WIFI , but unfortunately no lift.

This is a 4 day and 4 star luxury trip, including photography and Instagram guidance from the 27th until 30th of September.

The IG part can be seen as a workshop, so if you have your own company you can give this up as deductible costs, but is optional and the trip can be personalized to your needs.

What’s included?

Transfers to and from the airport,

3 nights in a 4 star apartment in Alfama including breakfasts,

A fabulous welcome dinner on the 27th of September,

Lunch and dinners on 28 and 29 September

2 days of all-inclusive tours of Lisbon and Sintra on 28 and 29 September where we will visit several Unesco sights, viewpoints and the most instagrammable spots of Lisbon and Sintra,

1 private Instagram consult with me, and editing and photography guidance,

Group Instagram practices (optional),

And of course a lot of surprises and extra’s to make this a trip of a lifetime!

Not included

Plane tickets

Breakfast and lunch on the arrival day 27 September

Lunch and dinner on the departure day 30 September

Alcohol and extra snacks outside the provided lunches and dinner

Going out and extra party-ing outside our planned schedule

You are welcome to come earlier and stay an extra night in the apartment on the 26th for a surcharge, although food and drinks for that day will be at your own expense.

Payment info

The cost for this trip is:

€899 per person for a shared room and

€1,099 for a private room

Both get 10% off if you sign up before 15 Aug. and bring a friend!

You will receive an official invoice through my company: Authentic Chic Travel and Lifestyle PR & Marketing and your spot will be reserved upon payment of the first 50% in advance through bank transfer.

The second half of the payment is due latest one month before departure on the 27th of August through bank transfer.

Cancellation policy

Your spot and room reservation will be guaranteed after you transfer the first 50% payment, first come first served.

In the worst case that you can not attend the trip you have the right to cancel up to 1,5 months in advance.

Of course I will do my best to fill your spot to be able to give you a refund.

If you yourself or I can not find a replacement for your spot you will be required to pay 100% of the total price.

There are only limited spots available, to secure your spot please send me an e-mail to [email protected] or find me through social media via the icons at the bottom of this page.

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Portugal Girls Trip Itinerary

I don’t know how we landed on Portugal for our girls trip, but it was truly the perfect destination! We split our time between Lisbon and Porto with a few day trips sprinkled in-between. Below you’ll find our 7 day itinerary in Lisbon & Porto!

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Where To Eat

Brunch & Breakfast

Dear Breakfast – adorable brunch restaurant in Biarro Alto. Find delicious egg dishes, fresh juices, and boozy espresso martinis here!
Graviola – acai bowls, pancakes, pastries, and omelettes…all the brunch options you could ask for.
Comobia – great option for coffee and pastries to go! We stopped here a few times before catching early morning trains.
Ateneia – quick service and a full breakfast menu.
Miss Pavlova – don’t skip the pavlova! This Barbie-core breakfast spot had classic brunch offerings and decadent pastries.
Zenith Brunch & Cocktails – a classic brunch with delicious cocktails and excellent service! Located in the trendy Cedofeita area of Porto, there is a market set up in the square next door with great local artisans.

Portugal Girls Trip Itinerary Porto and Lisbon Things to Do Restaurants

Hifen (Cascais) – awesome cocktails and a great view of Praia da Ribeira from the top floor.
Pastéis de Belém (Belem) – the origin of Portugal’s famous Pasteis de Nata!
O Melhor Croissant da Minha-Rua (Sintra) – grab a pastry and espresso here before your palace tour.
Incontro Cafe Bistro – this tiny Italian bistro was the perfect lunch spot after our train ride from Lisbon. If you plan to visit for dinner, make a reservation, the space only seats 14.

Atira-te ao Rio Restaurant – the ultimate sunset dining experience, Atira-te ao sits on the shore of the Tagus with ample outdoor seating and traditional Portuguese cuisine. Reservations here are much easier to get than Ponto Final (located next door) and the food is incredible! We ate here on our first night in Lisbon and it was truly a meal to remember.
Ponto Final – also located on the Tagus, Ponto Final is the more famous of the two restaurants here. You’ll need to book at least 1-2 months in advance or be prepared to wait up to 3 hours for a table.
Fabbrica di Pasta Fresca – fresh pasta with delicious sauces and located near the Rossio train station. A great option after your day trip to Sintra or Cascais!
Time Out Market – “the best of Lisbon under one roof” find Lisbons top restaurants and chefs at Time Out Market in Cais do Sodre.
Restaurante “Avella” Belem – select a fish for your table and have it prepared in traditional Portuguese fashion. This was a no frills, but delicious meal!
Puro 4050 – you must try the mushroom risotto! Maybe one of my favorite meals from the trip. Be sure to make a reservation or show up before 7pm to wait in line – this spot fills up quickly! Listen to live music if you are seated outside!
Mistu – asian fusion cuisine with excellent service! Located slight off the tourist path, Mistu has cool girl vibes and delicious food to match. Would make the perfect dressy date night during your time in Porto.
Praia de Luz (beach bar & restaurant) – order an Aperol spritz and watch the sunset at Praia de Luz beach bar. Slightly hidden from the main road above, after walking down a few steps you’ll find yourself feet from the ocean at this trendy beachfront club. This spot is about 15-miuntes from the historical center of Porto, but offers the best sunset views!

Portugal Girls Trip Itinerary Porto and Lisbon Things to Do Restaurants Cascais

Cocktails & Dessert

Espaco Porto Cruz 360 lounge (Cais De Gaia) – rooftop lounge with Port wine cocktails and an incredible view of the Rio Douro and Porto’s historic center.
Rooftop Flores (Porto) – a true hole in the wall, this scenic outlook has a panaramic view of the beautiful city.
Scoop ‘m Dough (Cascais) – vegan ice cream and pastries.

Where To Stay

In Lisbon we stayed in Bairro Alto near the Cais do Sodre station. We rented a charming Airbnb off the main road that was perfect for our group of 6. Bairro Alto is best known for its nightlife and numerous bars. Proximity to the train station was a huge perk and allowed us to reach both Cais do Sodre and Rossio Station by foot. This location was also near Pink Street, Time Out Market, and the Bica Funicular.

Portugal Girls Trip Itinerary Porto and Lisbon Things to Do Restaurants Airbnb

For the second leg of our trip we stayed in this modern Airbnb with an incredible view of Porto! Just minutes from Rue das Flores, Luis I Bridge, and dozens of bars and restaurants. We loved our stay here!

Travel Hair Necessities

Day Trip to Cascais – visit this small fishing village and check out the sandy beaches near Lisbon. About a 1-hour train ride from Cais do Sodre in Lisbon. This is not a large town and you only need a half day to see the sites and enjoy a meal by the ocean.
Calem Wine Tasting – learn how port wine is made in a brief 30-minute tour followed by a tasting.
Sunset Cruise on the Tagus – this was the highlight of our trip and such a memorable night for our girls trip! We booked through Rent a Boat Tours and got very lucky to be the only ones on board (max seating is 12 guests so still a small group regardless!). Our crew, Pedro & Joao, were so kind and taught us a lot about Lisbon. We also tried green wine/vino verde for the first time while we sailed up and down the Tagus. This excursion was a great value for the cost!

Sunset sail on the Tagus

Azulejos Tiles & Cascais

Portugal Girls Trip Itinerary Porto and Lisbon Things to Do Restaurants Sintra

Pena Palace in Sintra

Check out the Azulejo tiles – these decorative blue & white tiled murals are located throughout Porto on monuments, churches, and historic buildings. This blog post was helpful in finding them!
Livraria Lello – we unfortunately didnt have a chance to visit this stunning book store in Porto, but I would highly recommend. You’ll need to purchase an entrance ticket in advance.
Day Trip to Sintra – this is a full day trip and a must while you are in Lisbon! Take a 45-minute train to the town of Sintra to see the stunning Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. I suggest going to Quinta da Regaleira first to avoid lines at the Initiation Well and give yourself time to explore the grounds before going to Pena Palace. We spent the second half of the day at Pena Palace and the crowds cleared as it got closer to closing time (better for photos!).
Visit the Miradouros in Lisbon – these viewpoints are located throughout the city.
Jardim do Morro – gorgeous video of Porto and the Douro River from Cais de Gaia.

view from Jardim do Morro

Most restaurants and shops take cards, but AMEX is not always accepted.
Don’t book Alfa Pendular tickets from a third party (like Rail Ninja) book at the station or directly through Comboios de Portugal . Rail Ninja will come up first on google search when you look up the Alfa Pendular – do not book through it!
Ubers are very affordable and plentiful! Coming from NYC I was blown away at how inexpensive Uber was in both Porto and Lisbon.
Make reservations for large groups and on Friday and Saturday evenings. We noticed this mainly in Porto, but many restaurants in the main tourist area are quite small. Accommodating 6 without a reservation AND during peek dinner hours was nearly impossible (we learned the hard way on day 1 in Porto).
Don’t pack heels…I promise you will not wear them! Both Porto and Lisbon are hilly and have cobblestone roads. Even in sneakers were were struggling on some of the hills. I cannot even imagine doing any of the city walking in heels.
Pack for a variety of temperatures. Mornings and evenings in September were crisp (think sneakers and a light jacket), but by midday the sun is warm and you’ll want to be in sandals and a sun dress. This is your written permission to overpack!
Food and drink are reasonably priced throughout Portugal. A full meal including starters, main dishes, 1-2 bottles of wine, and dessert for 6 people was under 200 euro at most restaurants.

I hope this helps you plan your next trip to Portugal! It’s an incredible destination for a girls trip and 7-days was just enough time to enjoy each city. Feel free to DM me on Instagram (@melissa.frusco) with any questions or recommendations!

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Before you go

1. Travel insurance

2. Credit Cards

Essential items for your Portugal trip

Travel documents organizer

Packing cubes

Toiletry bag

Laundry bag

Cable organizer

Hand luggage

Travel backpack

Comfortable walking shoes

Bathing suit

Beach cover up

Water bottle

Dry shampoo

Small microfiber towel

Light summer dresses

Thin layers

Wrinkle remover spray

Reading material

Travel adapter

Small first aid kit

Must-haves for off-season travel

Light jacket

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Light sweater

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