This story was originally featured in Vogue.

On Seasonality

Portugal is increasingly becoming known as a year-round destination for the wide variety of experiences and attractions it offers, beyond the beaches and wine country. Winter, though the days are short and chances of rain are high, is a peaceful time to visit, with a cozy atmosphere in small towns. December through February are ideal for cultural trips, food and wine tours, spa getaways, surfing and city explorations without the crowds. Spring comes with wildflowers in the Alentejo and Douro regions, warmer days, and a reawakening of the landscape, perfect for hiking. It's also the time of pilgrimage to Fátima, a powerful spiritual tradition that lies at the heart of Portuguese devotion. Summer is, of course, the high season in Portugal as the Algarve offers excellent conditions for beach days, sailing, summer nightlife, and family travel. It’s crowded, but countryside hideaways can be booked in advance for intimate stays. However, the fall is one of the best times to travel to Portugal. It’s still quite warm at first, then quickly gets cooler (and wetter) as the season progresses. Vineyards turn golden with a particularly romantic mood due to harvest season in the Douro and Alentejo Valleys.

Keep in mind: seasonality is tricky in Portugal. Last July, I arrived in Porto, ready for a warm summer escape in my linen shorts. I drove down to Praia da Costa Nova from Porto for a secluded beach day, and little did I know that after my lunch of fresh fish at a local tavern, I had to buy a sweater to sit on the beach. The lifeguard was in a parka. It was July 15th! Expect strong gusts of wind from the Atlantic in Portugal, and always pack a sweater. I find this to be true in most Atlantic destinations in the northern and southern hemispheres.

Where to Go in Portugal in 2025: Places That Stir the Soul

Comporta: Just 1.5 hours south of Lisbon, 2 hours north of the Algarve, Comporta is evolving from a boho-chic beach retreat to a discreetly luxurious haven. Its landscape makes it unique with wild dunes, cork forests and emerging minimalist architecture (see the suites at Jncquoi Deli Suite and Quinta do Comporta)

Melides: Another escape on the Alentejo Coast, this quiet agricultural town breathes old Ibiza vibes from 30 years ago – especially with hotels like Vermelho that boast old traditional wooden doors and handpainted tiles.

Madeira: From June 2025, United Airlines will connect New York (EWR) to Funchal with direct flights, opening the island of Madeira to a new wave of popularity. Madeira’s unparalleled luxury, adventure, and charm and producing new hotel stays such as The Reserve (2024).

Lisbon: The city continues to evolve into a leading European hub for art, design and cuisine. The latest addition is MACAM (Museu de Arte Contemporânea Armando Martins). Open in March 2025, MACAM is Europe's first museum to include a luxury hotel, offering an immersive art experience in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace. There are also new speakeasy bars like Kissaten and more boutique hotels opening like The Ivens.

My top quintessential Portuguese Places & experiences

Listening to Fado in Coimbra: Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, Fado only exists in Portugal. Ideally, you would experience its heart-wrenching notes in a tavern in Coimbra.

Tasting Pastéis de Nata Fresh from the Oven in Belém: You have to go to the historic bakery where the creamy treat originated in 1837. The original recipe is safeguarded by the bakery.

Sleeping in a Castle: Portugal is home to a network of historic castles where guests can stay surrounded by ancient stone walls, suits of armor, and sweeping views of the countryside. While other European countries offer castle stays, Portugal’s pousadas are unique, like the 12th-century fortress in Óbidos.

The MAAT: In Lisbon, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is built along the riverfront. It is Lisbon's contemporary art institution, known for its striking architecture and innovative exhibitions. Enjoy exclusive private access to the museum during closing hours for an intimate experience.

Guimarães: If you’re going to the Douro Valley, stop by Guimarães on your way from Porto. This town in Northern Portugal is recognized as the birthplace of Portugal because it was here, in the 12th century, that Afonso Henriques declared himself the first King of Portugal. Guimarães has a beautifully preserved medieval old town (UNESCO) where you can wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional granite houses, quaint squares, and centuries-old churches. Don’t miss the 10th-century Guimarães Castle.

Casa de Chá da Boa Nova: With two Michelin stars, this restaurant seemingly hangs off of the cliff on the coastline in Leça da Palmeira. Designed by architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, it offers stunning sea views and innovative seafood dishes by Rui Paula.