Portugal

Welcome to your cosy little corner of the internet for everything you need to explore Portugal with confidence as a solo female traveller! Here you’ll find all of my best Portugal travel tips, detailed itineraries, and travel guides to help you plan your trip.

Planning A Trip to Portugal? start here:

KEY FACTS ABOUT PORTUGAL

→ Language: Portuguese (but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas)

→ Currency: Euros (€)

→ Capital: Lisbon

→ Timezone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)

→ Plug Type: Type C and F (European 2-pin)

→ Emergency Number: 112

→ Solo Travel Vibe: Relaxed, welcoming and easy going. Portugal is a great first-time solo travel destination!

The best time to get that iconic photo of the yellow trams and Lisbon cathedral is early in the morning – before the trams are covered in advertising and the crowds make it impossible to get an uninterrupted shot.

WHY PORTUGAL IS PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVEL

Portugal has been stealing the hearts of solo female travellers for decades, and it’s not just because of the delicious pastel de nata (although, let’s be honest, they definitely help!) It’s manageable in size but packed with character, culture and history, plus it’s the perfect balance of relaxed and lively.

Portugal’s also has very well-developed infrastructure. Trains and buses are frequent, safe and relatively affordable, so getting around doesn’t feel like a logistical headache. You can go from Lisbon to Porto to the Algarve without needing to drive, and the stations are generally walkable from central areas.

Safety-wise, Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe. I felt comfortable walking alone in cities like Lisbon and Porto. Petty theft can happen in tourist-heavy areas, but violent crime is rare, and the general vibe is low-stress and respectful.

Plus, Portugal is one of the more budget-friendly destinations in Western Europe. That matters when you’re travelling solo and paying the whole bill yourself. Food, accommodation and public transport all stretches a bit further here, and that gives you more room to enjoy the trip on your own terms!

Beautiful blooms in the heart of the city of Braga!

MY TOP PORTUGAL SOLO TRAVEL TIPS

  1. Stay central, but pick the right neighbourhood: In Lisbon, avoid staying right on the party strips of Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodre if you value a good night’s sleep! Instead, try Alfama, Principe Real, or Graca – still central but with a more laid-back feel. Same for Porto – Ribeira looks lovely but is touristy and overpriced. Try Cedofeita or Bolhão for better solo travel vibes.
  2. Be cautious around tuk-tuks and tourist traps: Tuk-tuks are everywhere in Lisbon and some parts of Porto now. They’re not necessarily dangerous, but they’re often overpriced and unnecessary, especially when public trams and walking are cheaper, safer and more authentic. Also, beware of restaurants in main tourist squares with laminated menus and pushy staff – walk inland and you’ll find better food for half the price!
  3. Mind the hills and cobbles: Portuguese cities are hilly, and the traditional stone pavement looks pretty but can be slippery and uneven. Bring comfortable, grippy shoes – especially for Lisbon and Porto, where the steep, polished streets can be a real hazard. And for walkers: don’t underestimate how tiring the hills get after a full day!
  4. Don’t skip the smaller cities: Places like Coimbra, Évora, Tavira, or Guimarães are ideal for solo travel – walkable, affordable and full of local charm. These towns give you a breather from the big city crowds and a chance to enjoy Portugal’s quieter side. Plus, they’re safe, and accommodation tends to be cheaper and more personal.
This iconic but somewhat secret view was my favourite during my visit to Pena Palace!

FAQS ABOUT SOLO TRAVEL IN PORTUGAL

Is it safe to travel alone in Portugal as a woman?

Yes, Portugal is widely considered one of the safest countries in Europe for solo female travellers. In fact, solo travellers are very common in the country, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto, so you won’t draw much attention walking alone. Public transport is also safe, punctual and easy to use, especially in the cities. Just make sure you keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist areas like Lisbon’s trams or popular viewpoints as pickpocketing is the most common issue, especially in the summer.

Is Portugal good for first-time solo female travellers?

Yes! Portugal is safe, friendly, affordable and very easy to get around thanks to its great public transport links. There are also loads of guided tours and excursions to get you to the hidden gems if you don’t have a car. It’s actually one of my top picks for beginners solo travel.

Is Portugal expensive?

Portugal is actually one of the more budget-friendly countries in Western Europe. You can enjoy amazing food, transport and accommodation all across the country – without breaking the bank.

What’s the best time of year to visit Portugal?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are still warm but much, much less crowded. July and August can be very hot and busy.

Where should I base myself if I’m travelling Portugal solo?

Lisbon or Porto (or both!) are both fantastic solo travel bases. From either city, you can take easy day trips or connect to other regions by bus.

Ah, Porto! Still beautiful, even under the heat haze of late June!

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PORTUGAL

Wondering where to travel as a solo female in Portugal? These are some of my personal favourite spots:

Lisbon: Portugal’s capital is truly one of a kind – packed full of charm, hills and quaint yellow trams. You’ll also find endless viewpoints (miradouros), cute cafes, a crazy amount of cool day trips (Sintra, Cascais, Belem…) plus a big solo travel culture.

Sintra: I can only describe Sintra as a real-life fairytale – and it’s just 40 minutes from Lisbon! Home to palaces, forests, castles and follies, exploring this magical part of Portugal is a bit surreal and completely magical.

Porto: Porto has it’s own unique vibe going on – and I love it! It’s quieter than Lisbon but still full of life. Think of it as Lisbon’s artsier little sister. Porto sits on the Douro River and is known for its wine, history and seriously cool tiles (yes, tiles – I’m not kidding!)

Douro Valley: Portugal’s famous wine region is all storybook rolling hills and river bends. You can visit from Porto or base yourself in a quiet vineyard town for full main-character solo trip energy!

Coimbra: Often overlooked Coimbra is Portugal’s university city. It’s smaller and less touristy than Lisbon or Porto, but still full of its own unique personality and charm.

The hidden gem of Amarante is so close to Porto but feels like a whole world away.

A FINAL NOTE

I hope this little Portugal hub has helped you feel excited (and well prepared!) to plan your own Portugal adventure. If you’re looking for a country that’s easy to navigate, full of character and perfect for easing into solo travel as a beginner, Portugal might just be your perfect match!

→ Still have questions? You can always send me an email. 💌

Arrabida National Park is truly Portugal’s treasure!