When most people think of Europe, they picture cobblestone streets, café terraces, and museum-lined boulevards. And while that version of Europe absolutely has its place, there’s another side—one that’s wilder, more active, and just as refined.

Portugal has quickly become one of Europe’s most talked-about destinations—and for good reason. It’s beautiful, welcoming, and offers a level of luxury that feels refreshingly approachable. But here’s what many travelers don’t realize: the best Portugal experiences look very different from the typical Lisbon + Porto itinerary.

Here are 12 extraordinary journeys, one for each month, to inspire your next great escape.

Portugal is by far one of our most popular destinations and there’s so many reasons our clients are flocking to this country. It’s one of the closest parts of Europe to the US making it an easy to reach destination. It's known for an incredible food and wine scene in its major cities of Porto and Lisbon. And it’s relatively easy to navigate due to its small size.  

And while Portugal has a lot to offer besides food and wine, those are the two primary reasons our clients want to go there. So what can you expect on a culinary and cultural trip to Portugal’s gems: Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley?