Tell me about your trip
Tell me what you enjoy and what you’re still deciding. I’ll reply personally.
Or email hello@portugalplanned.com
Before we plan
Which service should I choose?
The planning session is for talking through your route, food recommendations, and questions. Choose the personal trip plan if you’d like a daily itinerary, map, and booking links. The session is included in the trip plan.
Can we meet in New York?
Video calls are available, and we can also discuss meeting in New York. Mention your preference when you send your request, and we’ll agree on the location, timing, and any additional fee beforehand.
Do you make the travel bookings?
You choose, book, and pay your travel providers directly. My fee covers planning and advice before departure. Flights, accommodation, meals, transport, and activities are additional. Live travel or emergency support is not included.
What happens after I send a request?
I’ll reply personally about your trip and availability. We’ll agree on the service, scope, delivery date, and terms before payment. Sending a request doesn’t reserve a date or commit you to anything. All prices are in US dollars.
Which airport should I fly into for Portugal?
For a mainland trip, compare Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO), and Faro (FAO). Lisbon can suit a Lisbon-focused route, Porto a northern trip, and Faro the Algarve. I’d choose around your first and last overnight stops, then compare flights and the onward journey. Portugal’s airports.
Where should I go on a first trip to Portugal?
Start with what you enjoy. Lisbon and Porto are good starting points for food and history; Aveiro can fit a northern or central route, the Algarve brings coastal time, and Gerês adds mountains and nature. For seven days, I’d usually focus on one region or two overnight bases, with time for meals and nearby outings.
Where are the best beaches in Portugal?
The best fit depends on whether you want swimming, surf, long walks, or a beach close to town. The Algarve has sandy stretches and cliff-backed coves; its south coast can be more sheltered than the exposed west coast. Access, season, and daily conditions matter too. Choose supervised beaches and follow local flags and lifeguards. Explore the Algarve’s beaches.
Can I combine mainland Portugal with Madeira or the Azores?
Yes, with time set aside for the extra travel. Madeira and the Azores are separate Atlantic island regions, so plan flights and connection time alongside your mainland route. Give each its own stay. For a short trip, I’d choose a focused route; mention any island plans in your request so we can confirm the right scope. Portugal’s regions and geography.
When is the best time to visit Portugal?
For city exploring, spring or autumn is a useful starting point. The right time depends on your route and the weather you enjoy. Inland summers can be hot and dry, northern winters are cooler, and coastal conditions vary. I’d choose your dates around the places and experiences that matter most to you. Portugal’s climate.
Do I need to rent a car in Portugal?
A city-focused trip can work without one. Lisbon and Porto have public transport, and trains connect many major destinations, including Aveiro and Coimbra. A car can be useful for rural villages, trailheads, and places with limited connections. Choose the route first, then decide which days need a car and check current timetables. Traveling Portugal by rail.