In recent years, Portugal has rapidly been evolving from Spain’s often-overlooked neighbor to a travel hotspot. This is in large part because of its stunning beaches, fine wine, impeccable cuisine, charismatic cities, and countless other gems. This variety also makes this segment of the Iberian Peninsula a wonderful choice for punctuating a new marriage, and these Portugal honeymoon destinations only begin to uncover a myriad of possibilities.
1) Porto and the Douro Valley
Porto and the Douro Valley are the ideal Portugal honeymoon destinations for wine aficionados looking to start their marriage off by sampling varietals amid stunning scenery. Some days that scenery will be the monumental metal bridge and red roofs of Porto, and some days it will be the Douro River snaking its way through hills of terraced vineyards.
Port wine is a must-try while in Portugal, and this is absolutely the region for tastings above and beyond that popular export. You may not have many beaches at your disposal here, but when you’re sitting poolside and toasting to your new life together with some of the best wine in the world, you won’t even miss them. This area is also popular for wellness retreats, meaning it’s the perfect location to leave you feeling refreshed before returning to your regular lives.
2) Lisbon and the Silver Coast
As the capital city, Lisbon is a fantastic introduction to all that Portugal has to offer. Feel the breeze from the coast as you navigate the seven hills on foot or by its famous colorful trams, and end your day watching a delightful sunset over the city from the Alfama District. Once the sun has set, head to Bairro Alto y Chiado for a romantic seafood dinner followed by a thumping nightlife scene.
When you’re in need of some alone time spent sprawled out on the beach together, the Silver Coast is ready and waiting nearby. While the beaches of the Silver Coast may not be lined with glamorous clubs like you might find in other European countries, there are so many small villages with beaches that it’s easy to find somewhere to hunker down in private serenity. Or if you’re a more adventurous couple, Nazare is home to one of the top beaches in the world for surfing.
3) Algarve
If you’re all in on a beach honeymoon, look no further than the Algarve. Contrary to the Silver Coast, this is where you can find a plethora of resort-style hotels for pampering. Think easy access to golden sandy beaches with awe-inspiring rock formations during the day, afternoon couples’ massages, and evenings at the pool bar with refreshing cocktails in hand.
For a little adventure, you can set out on aquatic excursions like dolphin watching or join a cooking class to learn some local specialties. And if hitting the links is your favorite brand of unwinding, the Algarve is one of the best golf destinations in the world, as a home to plenty of gorgeous championship courses.
4) The Azores
Once considered Portugal’s best-kept secret, the Azores, situated 900 miles away from the mainland, are slowly being uncovered. This island chain has everything you could hope to find in Portugal; craggy beaches, lovely architecture, rich local wine and delectable seafood. However, the most exciting parts of the islands are those unique to this region, such as the volcanic activity that has painted evergreen craters, geothermal hot springs, and black sand beaches across the land. Lounging in the hot springs together is sure to be a romantic honeymoon memory you’ll treasure for a long time.
While it’s easy to spend your time here simply relaxing amidst the gorgeous scenery, the Azores are also an amazing option for those with something a little more active in mind. The seafaring can take to the waters for whale watching or scuba diving, and those that feel more comfortable on their land legs can hike dormant volcanos or the rims of crater lakes.
5) Madeira
The island of Madeira shares a lot of similarities with the Azores, including endless greenery and mountainous terrain never far from the coast. Unlike the Azores, Madeira is somewhat more frequently traveled, meaning it’s home to a number of luxurious resorts where a spa or restaurant are only steps away from the pool or beach. This middle ground is what makes it one of the best Portugal honeymoon destinations. You can spend your day out walking behind waterfalls or around volcanoes with the knowledge you’ll be ending your day in a haven of pampering.
Some truly unique experiences include walking along the levadas (small channels that transport water throughout the island), perusing the painted doors of Funchal’s Old Town and even riding through city streets in a wicker basket on skis. Yes, you read that last part right. You and your new spouse winding down a curvy road in a wicker basket pushed by two men in straw hats is certainly a honeymoon memory you won’t forget anytime soon.
