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Walking in Portugal

From the expansive sandy beaches of the south to the wilder western coast, and from bustling coastal resorts and historic towns to pretty fishing villages, Portugal is an excellent destination for a walking vacation.

Small group walking tours to Portugal

Here at Explore, we’re big believers that traveling on foot is one of the best ways to discover a destination, and Portugal is no exception. We offer small group walking tours in Portugal, graded from Easy through to Moderate and covering a range of terrains, from the islands of the Azores to the Levada trails of Madeira. Our small group vacations are led by a local leader, an expert in the area who is on hand to guide you on the routes and introduce you to the flora and fauna, and local culture along the way.

Our most popular walking tours in Portugal

Portugal Walking and Trekking Trip code POR
Discounted
Best Seller
Center-based
8 Days From US$1380 without flights
Madeira, Portugal Walking and Trekking Trip code TM
Best Seller
8 Days From US$1380 without flights
Azores, Portugal Walking and Trekking Trip code AZ
Best Seller
14 Days From US$3320 without flights
Portugal, Spain Walking and Trekking Trip code MWW
12 Days From US$2900 without flights

Best hikes in Portugal

The Algarve
Walking in the Algarve offers something for everyone. Inland, trails wind through rolling hills and pretty villages while the flatter eastern coastline is in stark contrast to the more dramatic, wilder west coast. Little known by tourists, the Via Algarviana stretches some 300km in the easternmost part and is characterised by traditional agricultural villages and farmland – a different Algarve altogether from the beautifully-preserved coastal Rota Vicentina path.

The Azores
The unspoiled archipelago of the Azores is characterised by volcanic landscapes, lush vegetation and charming fishing villages. Walk around a volcanic crater on Sao Miguel Island, explore the vineyards of Pico or spot whales and dolphins off the coast on our Azores Island Hopping trip.

Madeira
This lush volcanic island is known for its year-round climate, making it ideal for a walking break throughout the year. Discover the island’s levadas (a network of narrow irrigation channels) and coastal paths that overlook the dramatic Atlantic coastline.

What to expect on a walking tour in Portugal

Can I join a walking trip in Portugal as a solo traveler? 
Our small group trips are ideal for traveling solo, and you’ll be in good company – around half of travelers on our trips are traveling on their own. Our walking itineraries are designed with solo travelers in mind so that you can meet and socialise with other like-minded hikers, sharing your experiences along the way. 

When is the best time to go walking in Portugal?
The best times of year to visit Portugal are in spring and autumn, and this is particularly true for walking vacations. The climate is pleasantly warm outside of summer and so more comfortable for walking and exploring. There’ll still be plenty of sunshine, and you can swim in the still-warm sea, while the cooling Atlantic breezes mean it’s not too hot - perfect for hiking. 

How challenging are walking vacations in Portugal?
Our walking tours in Portugal are graded from easy through to moderate, and walks vary from three to six hours in a day. Landscapes and terrains are varied, from cobbled streets to ancient woodlands and coastal paths. Our small group trips all stop and regroup regularly, with plenty of rest breaks to take in the views along the way. 

What will I eat on a Portugal hiking tour? 
Portugal is well known for its delicious cuisine. Dishes are typically hearty - ideal for fuelling a walking tour - and packed with fresh local ingredients. Food varies between different regions. In southern Portugal try cataplana, a flavoursome seafood stew cooked in a clam-shaped copper pot. The Azores are known for their seafood, particularly tuna, and traditional cozido (slow-cooked Portuguese hot pot), cooked in the volcanic fumeroles. In Lisbon, the custard tarts are a must. Throughout Portugal you'll find delicious wines, while in Madeira poncha is the cocktail to order, made from distilled sugar cane juice. 

Where will I be staying on my Portugal walking tour?
Our small group tours to Portugal stay in small comfortable hotels. Wherever possible we stay in locally-owned and run hotels, and always choose the best locations for exploring the area. On our Azores walking tour, accommodation on Horta Island is premium standard as is the centre-based accommodation on our Eastern Algarve trip. Elsewhere, accommodation is a comfortable standard throughout.   

Need some inspiration for walking in Portugal?