WAC Travel

Postcards from Portugal: My Week Exploring Porto, the Algarve & Lisbon

 

I just got back from Portugal, and I’m already dreaming of going back! My husband and I spent an incredible week immersed in everything this stunning country has to offer—meeting with our trusted local partners, touring handpicked properties, and uncovering that old-world magic around every corner.

This is what we call a familiarization trip (or “fam trip” in travel industry speak), and honestly? It’s one of the most exciting parts of what we do at WAC Travel. These trips aren’t just about checking boxes—they’re about experiencing destinations the way you will, connecting face-to-face with our vendors abroad, and making absolutely certain that every experience we recommend is nothing short of extraordinary.

Over seven unforgettable days, we explored Porto’s labyrinthine streets and port wine cellars, drove along the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve Coast where the Atlantic crashes against golden rocks, and got delightfully lost in Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods pulsing with culture, fado music, and the irresistible scent of pastéis de nata.

Each region revealed its own distinct personality, and I cannot wait to share what we discovered.

 

Gaby & her husband, Robert, in Porto

 

Porto – Streets, Wine & Hidden Gems

We started our journey in Porto, and within hours, we were in love! The city’s old-world charm hits you the moment you wander its cobblestone streets—lined with colorful tiled buildings, locals chatting outside cafés, and the faint sound of church bells echoing over the Douro River. Porto feels timeless yet alive, with an energy that’s both laid-back and full of heart.

And the food? Absolutely incredible. Porto isn’t just about port wine (though trust me, it’s worth every sip). The local dishes are rich and comforting, the kind that make you want to linger over every bite. We joined a food tour where we sampled traditional Porto favorites and, of course, indulged in the city’s famous Francesinha sandwich—so good, we had it twice! Pair that with fresh seafood and cozy family-run taverns tucked into narrow lanes, and you’ll quickly understand why food is such a huge part of the city’s soul.

 

Left: Francesinha sandwich | Right: Port Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia

 

Everywhere we turned, Porto surprised us—vivid street art splashed across alleyways, quirky galleries hidden behind unassuming doors, and locals eager to share stories about their city.

 

Must-Sees & Dos:

• Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge: The views of Porto’s skyline and the Douro River are unforgettable—especially from the upper level.
• Tour the Port Wine Cellars: Head across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit historic cellars like Taylor’s, where you can sip port while overlooking the city.
• Visit Bolhão Market: A sensory overload in the best way—fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and the famous canned sardines, a Portuguese delicacy that makes a perfect souvenir.
• Take a Private TukTuk Tour: We toured with Ricardo, who customized our route, shared personal stories, and gave us fantastic local tips. It was such a fun, memorable way to see the city.

 

View of Porto from Vila Nova de Gaia

 

Algarve Coast – Sun, Sea & Coastal Wonders

Then we flew down to Faro, picked up our rental car, and hit the road along the Algarve coast. After the buzz of the city, it felt like a deep breath — open skies, rugged cliffs, and the endless turquoise Atlantic ahead.

We spent our days soaking up the sun, walking the scenic boardwalks, and dipping our toes into the ocean. One of the absolute highlights? A boat tour of the caves along the coastline. Seeing the cliffs and hidden grottoes from the water was pure magic—the sunlight bouncing off the rock formations, the sea spray on our faces, and that feeling of being somewhere truly special.

The Algarve is also a paradise for seafood lovers. Every meal was fresh, simple, and impossibly good—grilled sardines, tender shellfish, and crisp white wine to wash it all down. There’s something about dining outdoors with the sound of the waves nearby that makes food taste even better.

 

Must-Sees & Dos:

Take a Boat Tour of the Coastal Caves: Don’t miss seeing the Algarve from the water—it’s the best way to truly appreciate its beauty.
Walk the Boardwalks & Beaches: The cliffs and beaches are breathtaking at every turn.
Try the Local Seafood: From casual beach cafés to elegant restaurants, everything tastes like the ocean—in the best way possible.

 

Beach in the Algarve Coast

 

Lisbon – Hills, History & Vibrant Streets

From the coast, we drove through the Portuguese countryside to Lisbon, our final stop. The city instantly felt alive — the yellow trams clattering up steep hills, locals chatting outside cafés, and the sound of fado spilling out of tiny taverns. Lisbon is effortlessly cool yet deeply rooted in its history; every hill reveals a new perspective, both literally and figuratively.

We spent our days wandering through the city’s neighborhoods, getting lost on purpose, and tasting way too many pastries (no regrets). Pastel de Nata quickly became our daily ritual—flaky, golden perfection filled with creamy custard.

 

Must-Sees & Dos:

• Visit Praça do Comércio: Lisbon’s grand riverside square where locals and travelers gather to soak up the sunshine and sea breeze.
• Climb to a Viewpoint at Sunset: We visited Jardim do Torel, a peaceful little hideaway overlooking the city. We went up to catch the sunset and stumbled upon a local DJ playing music — it turned an already beautiful moment into something unforgettable.
• Join a Food Tour: We explored with Camila, who guided us through different neighborhoods, shared her favorite local bites, and gave us a deeper appreciation for Portuguese culture.
• Take a Jeep Day Trip to Sintra with Mário: An adventurous, off-road way to see a more local side of Portugal—complete with ocean views and hidden spots most visitors never find.
• Day Trip to Cascais: A charming seaside town that’s perfect for an easy, relaxing afternoon.

Lisbon was the perfect finale—vibrant, soulful, and full of life. Between the views, the music, and the people, it’s a city that makes you feel like you’re part of it, even if just for a moment.

 

Viewpoint from Jardim Júlio de Castilho in Lisbon

 

Reflections on the Trip

Portugal completely stole our hearts — in every city, every street, and every bite of food. Each region had its own personality: Porto’s soulful charm, the Algarve’s laid-back beauty, and Lisbon’s creative buzz. But what tied it all together was the warmth of the Portuguese people—their pride in their cities, their cuisine, and their culture is truly special.

If Portugal’s on your list (and it should be!), WAC Travel can help plan your perfect trip — filled with local charm, meaningful connections, and unforgettable experiences.