cruise kayak portugal

• European Nature Adventures
• Paddling Portugal's River of Wine

Trip Highlights

A Rare Slice of Old World Europe

Paddle Through Nature & Time

Authentic Inns, Fine Local Food & Wine

Photo Departure

A Slice of Old World Europe You Won’t Find Anywhere Else!

• No One Else Offers This Trip! When we say there’s no other trip like this one, we mean it. We were the first to offer kayaking trips on Portugal's Douro River, and we have refined this unique itinerary over the years through personal connections with our friends who make wine in the Douro Valley. To paddle the sun-drenched river by day, then revel in food and wine with our hosts at historic  quintas each night…you can only enjoy this special opportunity with Natural Habitat Adventures!
• A Rare Opportunity to Experience the Douro River at Eye Level  You're not likely to see other paddlers on the Douro, since boat traffic in this little-visited region consists mostly of small local craft and the occasional sightseeing vessel on the lower reaches. Periodically, we pass a larger river cruise ship farther upstream. But no tourist  boats explore the uninhabited wild reaches of the upper Douro, with our quiet, water-level perspective on the shoreline, birdlife, orchards and ancient vineyards. 
• Travel with Just 12 Guests Our small group offers an intimate opportunity to explore more remote locales and stay in small, traditional settings that bus-based tour groups and river cruise ship passengers don't have access to. Far from the bustle of Porto and the lower Douro, which most visitors limit their travel to, we have a peaceful experience on and off the river, essential to rewarding nature travel.
• Visit Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites Our itinerary includes three very different World Heritage Sites of global distinction. We begin in the Historic Center of Porto, built along the hills above the mouth of the Douro River with a rich 2,000-year history marked by various conquests and numerous monuments. The majority of our time is spent in the second World Heritage Site, the Alto Douro Wine Region, which is the world's oldest demarcated wine region. And the third is the Prehistoric Rock Art Sites of the Coa Valley—see #5 below.
• Guided Tour of the Coa Valley Museum & Archaeological Park Learn from archaeology experts about the extensive Paleolithic drawings discovered in the Coa Valley in the late 1980s, which were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. Start with a guided tour of the museum, then travel by van and on foot into the Archaeological Park containing thousands of engraved drawings of horses, bovines and other animals, and human and abstract figures, dated from 22,000 to 10,000 B.C. With our local guide, we examine several rock art sites in detail, evidence of continuous human habitation in the valley for millennia.
• Fall Trips Visit Douro International Natural Park Our August–October departures paddle through this protected wild terrain with Portugal on one bank and Spain on the other. The region is home to numerous birds of prey, plus wild boar and elusive Iberian wolves, although they live inland and we do not expect to see them. (June departures do not visit this area because it is closed at this time for raptor nesting. )
• Stay in Authentic Quintas —the Vineyard Estates of the Douro Valley From luxurious manor houses to traditional farmsteads and boutique inns, the historic quintas of the Douro Valley are a highlight of our trip. Many are centuries old and still run by the farming families who have grown grapes and made wine in this region for generations. Some produce other local products as well, such as olive oil, nuts and preserves. Staying on a quinta is an experience well off the typical tourist track!
• Indulge in Fabulous Food and Wine We know most of our guests don’t choose our nature adventures for the food, although it’s generally excellent. On this trip, it’s a hallmark! Our hosts at each quinta take great pride in filling us with hearty repasts of homemade country fare and endlessly flowing local wines—in addition to its famous Port, the Douro Valley produces up-and-coming table wines, too. From fresh oranges, almonds, honey and olive oil to farm-raised lamb and pork and artisan cheeses, much of what we enjoy is raised right on or near the estates where we stay. If you’re an adventure traveler who’s also a bit of a gourmand, this trip will delight all your senses! (And...all the wine is included!  No extra out-of-pocket charges to worry about.)
• A Seasoned Expedition Leader & Outstanding Local Guides Natural Habitat Adventures is known worldwide for employing the best-trained, highest-quality guides in the industry, and that’s certainly the case in Portugal. Your Expedition Leader is an accomplished paddler and kayaking instructor, always at the ready to assist with your comfort, convenience and safety. And our local guides are resident experts when it comes to knowing the hidden corners and rich history of the Douro region, where they've worked for years—not to mention exceptionally hospitable and attendant to your every need. Read our Expedition Leader bios and traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Outstanding Portugal Experience With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee, clearly stating that we will meet the lofty expectations we set in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise for yourself!
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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The 5 Best Kayaking Tours in Portugal [2024 Reviews]

Portugal is often underrated, yet remains one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Aside from its fascinating history and rich culture, one of the reasons why it’s such a tourist hotspot is because of its stunning beaches. One of the best ways to take advantage of the Portuguese waters is by kayaking. We’ve taken on the task of checking out the best kayaking tours, so you are selecting among the cream of the crop. Let’s get started!

Best Kayaking Tours in Portugal

Quick answer: the 5 best kayaking tours in portugal [2022 reviews].

• Lisbon: Sesimbra Kayak Discovery Experience
• From Albufeira: Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP
• Algarve: Benagil Sea Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayak Experience
• Arrabida: Kayaking and Snorkeling Experience
• Benagil Beach: Kayak or SUP Coastline Caves Tour

Best Kayaking Tours in Portugal Reviews

#1. lisbon: sesimbra kayak discovery experience.

• Pickup optional
• Includes snacks and water, along with a pro instructor
• Meet at the Harbour of Sesimbra

To start off, the tour is very convenient as it offers various pickup points such as your hotel, the airport, or just about any other address in the Lisbon area. Just make sure you’re at the agreed upon pickup point one hour before the tour starts.

Once you’re picked up, you’ll start off at the Bork Outdoor Center in Sesimbra Harbour. The harbor itself is absolutely gorgeous, and has a charming, old-school feel to it. Your guide is there to offer help when needed. If you’ve never kayaked before, they’ll also show you the best techniques so you have nothing but fun!

Traveling along the breathtaking coast of the Arrabida Nature Park and Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, it’s been a protected area since the late 90s. Thanks to the help of local communities, they place huge importance on recovering and conserving these valuable marine ecosystems.

As you explore, your guide will fill you in on why it’s so important to protect these delicate ecosystems and animals. Not only that, but you’ll learn all about the cliffs, caves, and other wonders.

You’re sure to burn off some calories kayaking around, so the tour will make a stop at Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo to rest and snack.  Known for its milky-blue waters, it’s the perfect place to just relax and take it all in or get some photo ops. Once you’ve rested, you’ll then paddle back to Sesimbra Harbour. Afterward, the tour will drop you off back at your hotel or lodging.

For tour prices, transportation and availability:

#2. from albufeira: benagil hidden caves tour by kayak or sup.

• Pickup not included
• Meet at SeaAlgarve Ticket Office in Albufeira Marina
• Includes kayak/SUP/catamaran transport

We noticed that the SUPs and kayaks provided are of excellent quality, and are very well taken care of. The crew pays special attention to safety, and because of this, we also felt it was a great tour for older children all the way up to older adults.

The tour is overall very relaxing and educational, as opposed to high-energy and adrenaline-filled. Life vests are provided, which is essential, as you’ll be traveling to the caves by catamaran. The ride there is about 40 minutes, and once you arrive you’ll transfer to a single-person, 2-person kayak, or SUP, depending on which one you’ve selected.

This is your opportunity to paddle around and check out all the different caves and caverns. While there are countless boats and tourists in and around these caves, this tour is the chance to freely see them without all that distraction. The tour offers you quite a bit of time, so a lot of people enjoy taking a dip in the water before you start to head back. Once you board the catamaran to go back to shore, you’ll get a refreshing, ice-cold drink to replenish your energy.

#3. Algarve: Benagil Sea Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayak Experience

• Meet at Praia de Benagil Beach on side of O Pescador restaurant
• Includes kayak, life vest rentals

As you do travel by kayak, it’s recommended that all who partake in the tour weigh less than 243 pounds due to their weight capacity. This tour is quite short, so a pickup is not included. However, you will meet along with the rest of your group at Praia de Benagil Beach.

We absolutely loved this tour, due to the sheer beauty of the area, along with the fact that the water and caves are practically always empty at this time! This means that you’ll get to really explore instead of waiting for others – also great for taking timeless snapshots!

Before you head into the water, you’ll spend the first few minutes in a safety briefing with your guides. This is to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible and that there are no accidents. They’ll also provide you with a duffel bag so you can keep your valuables safe and bring them along with you.

While there are various times you can take this tour throughout the day, by far the best is just after sunrise? Why? First off, it’s a great way to start off your day. Secondly, there is hardly anyone out there at this time – no boats nor tourists to speak of. Once you get to the caves, you’ll get to just relax on the beach, take photos, or simply explore or swim around.

#4. Arrabida: Kayaking and Snorkeling Experience

• Meet next to Creiro Beach parking lot at Portinho da Arrabida
• Includes gear rentals, insurance

With certified instructors to guide you, you can rest easy knowing that you have professionals there to keep safety at the forefront. They are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making it a wonderful experience each time. You can feel confident in asking them just about any question and they’ll likely know the answer.

To start off, you’ll head to the Arrabida Natural Park and the Marine Park Luiz Saldanha. This area is a protected one, and places special importance on keeping their marine life and ecosystems safe. As you can imagine, it’s rich in all kinds of beautiful creatures. With nearly-transparent waters, you’ll be able to get incredible views of them, too.

While it’s never 100%, this area typically has ideal conditions for kayaking. You’ll spend a full 2 hours of paddling along the coastline, taking in the natural rock formations, hidden caves, and little beaches.

Later on, you’ll stop at Pedra da Anicha, or “anchor stone”, loosely translated. This zoological reserve is booming with all kinds of diverse plants and animals! The island is surrounded by crystalline waters, which are perfect for taking a dip and snorkeling with them! Some people enjoy checking out the underwater rock formations and cavities, though we only recommend this if you’re a more confident swimmer.

#5. Benagil Beach: Kayak or SUP Coastline Caves Tour

• Time varies
• No pickup included
• Meeting point varies
• Includes kayak/SUP rental

You’ll meet in front of the O Pescador restaurant, which is basically right in front of the Benagil beach. Once you check in, you’ll get started right away as there’s no time to waste! Hotel drop off/pickup is not an option due to the shorter tours.

You can expect small groups, gorgeous coastlines, and a great way to get your body moving! We experienced guides who explained just about everything you could want to know about the area, as well as the proper techniques for kayaking/paddle boarding. Not only that, but they know all the little nooks and crannies, and can show you all the best hidden caves.

The famous Benagil Cave is the star of the tour for most, but in our experience, there are many other caves. And hidden beaches that are just as captivating and fun to explore. There are tons of hidden gems along the Algarve coast, and you get to choose if you’ll venture along by either SUP or kayak. If you are tired, you’ll be able to just take a dip in the water or rest on a beach, so there’s a lot of variation here.

All in all, this is a beautiful experience that will make you feel like you’re living in some kind of fairytale. It’s definitely a tour worth repeating!

Portugal Travel Guide

Portugal’s importance in world history is often overlooked in favor of surrounding countries more prominent in modern history, such as the United Kingdom or Spain. However, Portugal formed the first global empire in history.

During the Age of Exploration, when European maritime nations raced to create colonies worldwide, Portugal was the first off the starting blocks and soon became the most powerful and influential country in the world.

Although its colonial ambitions began in north Africa, Brazil was by far its most successful colony. Today, Brazil is the largest Portuguese speaking nation in the world, and the largest country in Latin America.

Evidence of Portugal’s past wealth and power can be seen in the many monuments and structures surviving from its heyday. In Porto to the north and Lisbon to the south, impressive fortresses, grand palaces, and lofty cathedrals stand proudly and steal away their visitors’ breath.

But a fascinating history and culture are not the only features Portugal has to offer. Its unique position as the most westerly nation in Europe provide it with many unique natural landmarks, such as Peneda-Gerês National Park to the northeast of Porto, Arrábida Natural Park just south of Lisbon, and the Tagus River.

Dolphin and Whale Watching in Portugal

Portugal is an excellent country to indulge in whale watching and dolphin watching. The warm waters off the mainland coast provide a perfect environment for cetaceans (whales and dolphins) year-round. Whales and dolphins are often seen in the North Atlantic Ocean off the Portuguese shoreline.

The three places you can most easily watch whales and dolphins are off the mainland Portuguese coast, around the islands of the Madeira Archipelago, and around the islands of the Azores Archipelago. Over 25 cetacean species have been identified in Portuguese waters. Bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales can be observed year-round, especially in Madeira and the Azores. Other rarer species can be observed seasonally.

Off the Portuguese mainland, the Sado Estuary 25 miles south of Lisbon is renowned for its high population of bottlenose dolphins. Both common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins are also seen off the coastline of the Algarve. You may also see humpback whales, pilot whales, and harbor porpoise. The peak time for dolphin activity is from June through September.

Dolphins and whales are spotted year-round in Madeira, but the best time to see them is from spring through to the fall. You will see short-finned pilot whales, sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, and striped dolphins at any time of the year.

Other species, such as killer whales, Risso’s dolphins, minke whales, and humpback whales sometimes make an appearance. Some tour boat companies employ spotters to keep watch atop the high Cabo Girão sea cliffs and direct the boats to any whale pods that appear.

Traveling in the time of COVID

Like many destinations, some tours and visitor attractions in Portugal have adopted special precautionary measures during the pandemic.

Face masks are mandatory in some locations, notably in enclosed public areas such as travel hubs and shopping malls. You are expected to supply your own mask and wear it when you enter buildings.

It is in your own interest to keep your distance from other visitors who are not in your family group or bubble. You are expected to keep your distance inside boats, coaches, train compartments, and other vehicles and when seated in restaurants.

At the time of writing, Portugal welcomes visitors and visas are not required for US citizens. However, with the exception of children aged 12 and under, every person arriving in Portugal must provide a negative SARSCoV-2 test certificate of nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) or rapid antigen test (TRAg). This certificate must be time stamped within 72 hours for NAAT or 48 hours for TRAg before boarding.

You can obtain the most up-to-date information directly from the Portuguese government immigration department website . During these relatively uncertain times, it is wise to also consult the US Department of State website for current travel advisories .

Airports & Entry

You can enter Portugal by ferry, road, railway, or air. Except for air, all the methods of travel involve traveling through or from Spain. By far the easiest and quickest way to travel to Portugal is by airplane.

Most visitors fly to Porto Airport in the north, Lisbon Airport in the middle, or Faro Airport in the south. To compare, in 2017 Porto saw 10.8 million passengers, Faro 8.7 million, and Lisbon 26.7 million, making the capital by far the most popular entry point into Portugal.

If you are interested in beautiful scenery and wildlife, you’ll likely want to be in the north. For history and culture, Lisbon. And for “Mediterranean” beach vacations, Faro.

Lisbon International Airport (LIS, or Humberto Delgado Airport) is located inside the city and only 4.3 miles northeast of the historic center. Before the pandemic, the airport saw annual increases in passenger traffic, handling 31.2 million visitors in 2019. Because it is a travel hub for Ryanair, TAP Air Portugal, and TAP Express, it is the 20 th busiest European airport.

The airport’s 2 terminal buildings are dated and busy, but they do contain all the amenities you would expect from a major international airport. All arrivals and most international departures are handled by Terminal 1.

Note that passport control on departure is after the duty-free shops, and the queues for immigration control can be long. So, don’t get so excited in the stores hunting out last minute bargains that you miss your flight.

Just because you arrived in Terminal 1, it does not mean that you will depart from there. To avoid unnecessary complications on departure, check your ticket carefully and ensure you know which terminal you are flying from before heading for the airport.

By far the easiest way to transfer from the airport to any location around Lisbon is on the metro. The metro is affordable, safe, and efficient, with stations all around the city. To use the metro, you will need to purchase a reusable Viva Viagem card for €0.5 and then pay a €1.50 fare for your journey around Lisbon.

If you are in more of a hurry, or you have children to watch and luggage to carry, consider taking a taxi. The typical taxi fare for a 4-seat taxi to the historic center is between €10 and €15 during the day. In a larger vehicle or at night, fares increase by 20%.

Alternatively, you can hire a car at the airport. All the major international car rental companies are represented in the Terminal 1 arrivals hall. But be warned that the car rental car park exits immediately into a busy urban area, and accidents do happen.

Planning Tips

Portugal is a beautiful country that boasts a rich history and culture, which is why it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe. Here are a few specific tips to help you get the most out of your vacation in Portugal.

If you have tips of your own about this beautiful country, please share them with other readers in the comments below.

Tip #1: Travel Off Season

In high summer (July and August) the streets of Lisbon and beaches in the Algarve are crowded. Not only is this when many local schools break for summer, but it is also the time when the Portuguese think the weather is best for sea swimming.

If you delay a little and travel to Portugal in the fall, you will benefit from fewer crowds while there is still plenty of sunshine and the average seawater temperature in the Algarve in October is 70 0 F. You may also benefit from lower, off-season prices and tours are less likely to be fully booked.

Tip #2: Explore Beyond the Typical Tourist Traps

Most tourists head to Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve. However, there is much more to see in Portugal that’s off the beaten trail.

In the border regions between Portugal and Spain, historical tensions led to the construction of many picturesque fortified hill towns and castles, such as Estremoz and Marvão. And the north of Portugal around Porto is famous for its bountiful vineyards.

If you’re visiting off-season in the fall, the grape harvest typically occurs around September and October. At some vineyards, you can arrange to take part in the grape harvest and traditional foot stomping. Crush the grapes beneath your feet to assist the locals in their traditional wine manufacturing process.

Tip #3: Plan Ahead

Whenever you visit Portugal, the day trips are popular. Sometimes they become fully booked weeks in advance. To avoid disappointment, book before you travel.

If your main interest is history and culture, note many museums and art galleries that usually charge for admission typically have one free admission day each month, or sometimes each week. Do your research and decide which museums you wish to visit. You may then be able to organize your vacation around the free days and save a lot of money in entrance tickets.

Tip #4: Consider Surfing While you’re in Portugal

When you think about taking a surfing vacation, Portugal isn’t a country that immediately springs to mind. It should be.

You don’t have to be a genius to recognize that it offers an identical situation to southern California. It is the westernmost country in Europe, and its entire shoreline is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean.

Portuguese beaches boast rolling Atlantic waves perfect for surfing. Experienced surfers looking for a challenge should head to Nazaré on the central Portuguese coast. Beginners and intermediate surfers will be more comfortable surfing in the Algarve where the beaches are slightly more sheltered.

Tip #5: Buy Local Crafts

In Portugal, you’re spoiled for choice when selecting suitable souvenirs as gifts for your family and friends back home or as a memento of your vacation. Portugal is noted for its fine ceramics. For the finest traditional glazed pottery, visit the historic town of Caldas da Rainha on the central Portuguese coast north of Lisbon.

The town of Arraiolos in south-eastern Portugal is famous for both its picturesque castle and its fine hand-stitched rugs. However, you don’t need to take a special trip to buy Portuguese textiles. Throughout the country, you will discover unique textile products that make a wonderful keepsake to remind you of Portugal when you return home.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Given Portugal’s extensive coastline, it is no surprise to discover that seafood is an important food source. However, red meat and poultry are also important in many traditional dishes. In common with nearby Mediterranean countries, olive oil is typically used to fry and to flavor dishes.

Like France to the north, bread is important in Portuguese meals, and there are several traditional varieties found across the country.

Where Portuguese cuisine differs from neighboring countries is in its extensive use of exotic herbs and spices. Due to Portugal’s long-lasting colonial empire, cooking techniques and flavorings from its former colonies have become an important element of many popular dishes.

Dried and salted cold known as bacalhau is a staple part of many Portuguese diets. Historically, the drying procedure was a means of preserving the fish for consumption over the winter months. However, now it is done to create a revered taste and texture. This can be grilled, fried, boiled, or baked. You’ll see it served as a snack in paper pouches.

A thick seafood stew called cataplana is popular in the Algarve. It is cooked in a special, clam-shaped cooking pot and traditionally features the fish of the day.

A francesinha is a popular variety of sandwich. Multiple kinds of meat are piled between two slabs of bread. This provides a hearty meal that is often flavored with surprisingly spicy sauces using ingredients such as paprika, saffron, piri-piri, and black pepper.

Watch out for alheiras on menus across Portugal. These traditional sausages were originally made by members of secret Jewish communities using only kosher meats. Instead of pork fat, bread was used as a main ingredient. These bready sausages can be served grilled or baked and with a fried egg and a side of rice.

In bygone days, not everyone could afford large quantities of meat. Hence a cabbage and potato-based soup called caldo verde is popular in rural communities. However, vegetarians should beware. These soups are flavored using a small amount of chorizo spicy sausage. It is rare to find caldo verde without at least a little spicy sausage flavoring.

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be happy to hear that sweet and flaky pastries are important in Portuguese cuisine. Popular varieties include bolos de São Gonçalo and pastel de Nata , both involve generous amounts of custard as a filling or topping.

Nightlife & Entertainment

In northern and central Portugal, the nightlight is focused around the main cities of Porto and Lisbon. However, in the south, the Algarve region is noted for its lively nightclub scene, live music venues, and popular beach bars.

As with any city with a large student population, Porto is a wonderful destination for nightclubbing and music venues year-round. Portugal’s second largest city is also host to some wonderful cultural festivals that amaze visitors.

The university students traditionally celebrate the end of their exams in style during the first half of May. During this time, expect to find 50,000 students flooding the bars and nightclubs in search of fun. And in the Queimódromo square adjacent to City Park, you can attend live concerts every evening.

During the midsummer solstice, the São João Festival involves some quirky local traditions, such as displaying a vase decorated with a poem and eating sardines and potatoes alongside locally produced red wine.

As the cultural capital of the nation, you’ll find a broader range of options in Lisbon. It is twice the size of Porto and houses a more diverse, international population. The nightclubs are less aimed at students and more toward younger tourists.

You’ll find that the nightlife starts late but goes on until after dawn. The narrow labyrinth of streets in the Old Town contains many popular bars that fill with the younger crowd nightly, especially around the Avenida da Liberdade and Rossio .

The Bairro Alto is the heart of the Lisbon night scene. You’ll find traditional Portuguese folk music played in tiny tavernas neighboring live rock and jazz music venues. The bars don’t close until 2 am and the clubs remain open until around 7 am. The night spots in this area are always crowded and typically reach capacity soon after 11 pm.

The Algarve

In the Algarve, the city of Albufeira is renowned for its nightlife. In fact, although it is a small city when compared with Porto or Lisbon, it is reputed to contain the best nightclubs and bars in Portugal.

Young tourists from around Europe and the rest of the world flock to Albufeira to spend their days playing on the beaches and nights playing in the clubs. During the summer months, The Strip is a prime destination for hen and stag parties and students looking to get drunk and maybe get lucky, too.

The big name clubs that attract the famous DJs and crowds are Kadoc outside of town, Kiss on Rua Vasco da Gama, and Club Heaven, Club Vida, and Liberto’s Lounge Club on The Strip.

If you seek something quieter and more sophisticated, head for the pedestrianized old town center where the restaurants and cocktail bars cater for an older crowd with more refined tastes.

Getting Around

The strange thing about Portugal when compared to many other countries is that it’s often quicker to travel by bus than by train. My wife recently needed to travel from Lisbon to Porto, which is 195 miles. The time quoted for both long-distance coach and high-speed train was 3 hours 15 minutes, but the coach cost €5.00 and the train €23.31.

Hiring a car is a great option if you want to visit those remote fortified hilltop towns or vineyards around Porto. However, you must be a confident driver. The number of car accidents in Portugal is higher than average in Europe, though, to be fair, there are fewer road fatalities in Portugal than in the US . Note that driving while intoxicated is a problem in the evenings, so take special care if driving after dark.

Despite their lack of speed, Portuguese trains are modern. Some rail services pass through scenic areas and provide excellent views, such as the service from Porto to Pochinho. However, you should be aware that train stations are often a long distance from the town center or village they serve.

The services are divided into Intercidades (IC), Interregionais (IR), Regionais (R), and Urbanos. IC services are the fastest linking Lisbon to the major cities, but they are also more expensive. Urbanos services are aimed at commuters around Lisbon and Porto, which also both have underground metro systems.

Tickets are purchased from the station on the day of travel, but be aware that long queues form so you must arrive early to ensure you don’t miss your train. The tickets are affordable compared with other nations and you can choose between primeira classe (first class) and conforto (economy).

The bus services across Portugal reach more places than the railway, deliver you to the center of the towns, are cheaper than the train, and often faster. If you want to travel from one large city to another, you need a Rede Expressos coach.

Unlike with the trains, it’s a good idea to book bus tickets online in advance. You can also buy them at ticket desks in cafés near the bus stop or at central bus stations. You can get travel information from bus stations. However, note that many assistants outside of the Algarve speak poor English or none.

Portugal has surprisingly good main roads that have been improved and extended in recent years. That’s why the buses are as quick as the trains. These major routes are called Estrada Nacional (EN or N).

However, when visiting remote rural areas, you can expect poorly maintained and narrow roads. And you may need to share them with loose animals, so drive carefully.

There is a freeway network between major cities — Auto-Estrada (A). These are 4 or 6 lane roads, but they have toll gates, and you must pay to use them. DO NOT use the lane labelled Via Verde because this is for prearranged automatic payment.

Unlike most countries, the Portuguese police will accept foreign driving licenses, so you won’t require an international license to drive here. The Portuguese police are empowered to enforce on-the-spot fines for poor parking, speeding, and other misdemeanors.

Parking at cities is at a premium, so you may struggle to park near popular attractions. Consider using park-and-ride schemes where they are available.

Within cities, the taxis are relatively affordable. This is a good thing since railway stations are often a long way from the town center, so you may need a taxi.

Accommodations

If you plan to explore the Portuguese countryside, you’re in luck. Outside of Porto, Lisbon, and the Algarve, accommodation is very affordable. In towns and villages, you can find twin rooms in small hotels and guesthouses for around €40 per night. And if money is no object, there are many upscale hotels, historic manor houses, and even castles, such as the Pousada Castelo de Óbidos just 53 miles north of Lisbon.

Pousadas, such as the one in the castle above, are a class of comfortable hotels typically either located in beautiful historic buildings or situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty. No matter where you want to stay in Portugal, locating affordable and comfortable accommodation is not a problem.

However, if you plan to stay in Porto, Lisbon, or the Algarve, you need to plan ahead. All the best and most affordable accommodations in these areas are typically booked up days, if not weeks in advance. Reservations are essential to ensure you don’t end up staying in a crumbling dump and paying through the nose.

For travelers on a budget, Portugal has a great range of youth hostels and campgrounds to choose from. RVers are especially welcome. There are also many one-star hotels that offer the minimum of facilities but at a low, low price. Be aware that youth hostels and one-star hotels may not have air conditioning, which may become a problem in high summer.

Self-catering villas are an option for larger groups of family and friends. When the bill is shared between many, a large villa can prove more comfortable than a hotel but for a lower price. Note that for villas and hotels alike, it is a good idea to book ahead in high season to avoid disappointment.

Portugal’s weather is dependent upon two factors — its latitude and its position at the south-westernmost point of Europe sticking out into the Atlantic Ocean. The ocean moderates Portugal’s temperatures, resulting in relatively mild winters and warm summers.

There is a significant variance between the north and the south of the nation. Around Porto in the north, the annual average temperature is 55 0 F. In the Algarve in the far south, this rises to 64 0 F. While the mountains in northern Portugal do see snow, with a ski resort at Serra da Estrela, the rest of the country misses out completely.

The mild winters provide average temperatures of 49 0 F in Porto, 52.5 0 F in Lisbon, and 53.5 0 F in the Algarve. There are spells of poor weather with high winds and heavy rainfall. Occasionally, the winds grow to gale force. But overall, the weather is mild from December to February.

The warm summers are sunny with average temperatures of 70 0 F in Porto and 74.5 0 F in Lisbon and the Algarve. Some coastal areas in the west experience relatively cool weather because of the ocean breezes. Due to its more sheltered location, the Algarve avoids those breezes and maintains high summer temperatures.

Attractions

Though Portugal is a small country, it is packed with many wonderful natural and historic attractions. These are separated into three distinctive regions: the north, the central region, and the Algarve in the far south.

The most famous natural attraction in Portugal is found in the far north, and it is Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês. The rocky landscape of this beautiful mountainous area is noted for its lush vegetation, picturesque waterfalls, clear blue lakes, and breathtaking valleys.

This national park is popular with hikers and other outdoor pursuits enthusiasts. Watch out for golden eagles soaring over the tree tops while wild boar and wolves wander through the foliage. There are marked trails, designated campsites, and quaint villages with unique guesthouses.

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and the main tourist destination in the north. Some tourists come to view the unique architecture featuring fine Neoclassical and Baroque churches. Look out for the granite walls and pretty blue and white ceramic tiles used to decorate buildings such as the beautiful main railway station.

Other visitors come to visit the surrounding vineyards and take part in the harvests or sample the wines. River cruises are also popular and provide access to the beautiful Douro Valley where you can see traditional terraced hillsides and pretty hamlets.

Midway between Porto and Lisbon you can find Coimbra and its famous hilltop university. Founded in 1290, Velha Universidade is one of the world’s oldest educational establishments. The Baroque library is a particularly popular attraction containing over 250,000 books, some dating to the 12 th century. The whole university campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lisbon is the cultural capital of Portugal. The best way to explore the old city is by jumping on the historic tram #28 that takes you up the steep streets. This vibrant city is home to many world-class museums and fascinating historic buildings.

The most iconic building in the city is the ancient Torre de Belém fortress guarding the entrance to the city from an island close to the northern bank of the Tagus River. But if you are especially interested in history and architecture, it is worth taking a day trip to nearby Sintra .

Sintra is a renowned hilltop retreat containing palaces and other historic buildings. Its most popular attractions are the Palácio da Pena, the Castelo dos Mouros, and Palácio Nacional. Sintra is especially popular for walking tours because of its hills and the many breathtaking vistas they offer.

Most people who head down south are more interested in sunbathing on the beaches and partying at night than any historic or cultural attractions. But they are missing out on some amazing sights.

Faro’s old town is built on Roman foundations and is filled with a selection of medieval buildings gathered inside a 16 th -century city wall. The 13 th -century cathedral is noted for its tall tower providing panoramic views across the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa.

You may also enjoy the Museu Municipal de Faro, a fascinating museum inside a medieval convent. Those who love the macabre will be drawn to the infamous Igreja do Carmo, noted for its Bone Chapel decorated with the bones of over 1,000 monks who prayed here over the years.

If you want to explore beyond Faro, Tavira is a popular destination. This picturesque town in the Algarve contains a well-preserved castle, a grand medieval church filled with knights’ tombs, and a captivating riverside walk featuring a surviving Roman footbridge.

Tour Quality

There are quite a few kayaking options in Portugal due to its long coastline and varied terrains. We chose the Sesimbra kayaking tour as our Editor's Choice and it is accessible from Lisbon.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Histroy Portugal

• May 9, 2023

Our top seven scenic kayaking tours and adventures in Portugal

Are you looking forward to your upcoming family travels? Are you planning an adventure break in the Mediterranean? What about a holiday to Portugal ? Portugal 's landscape is diverse and invites you to plenty of adventure and outdoor activities , including kayaking . Portugal offers beautiful opportunities to paddle along the country's stunning coastline and explore its rivers and lakes inland. So, here we share our 7 favorite locations to kayak in Portugal .

1. The Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is a wine region in northern Portugal , known for producing Port wine. It is located along the Douro River and is characterized by steep hillsides and terraced vineyards that were built by hand over many centuries. The river Douro is an important highlight of the area allowing you to soak up the natural surroundings from the water, whether via river cruises or from your kayak. Besides, you can stop at local wineries and restaurants along the way, to sample the region's famous wines and cuisine.

2. Arrabida Natural Park

The protected Arrabida Natural Park is located in the Setubal district of Portugal , approximately 50 kilometers south of Lisbon. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as stunning landscapes from lush green fields, and vineyards, to limestone hills. But probably one of its main attractions is its dramatic and rugged coastline with stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters inviting for a range of water sports activities, such as kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling. On a kayak tour, you peddle around the breathtaking rock formations and past secluded beaches but can also observe marine life such as dolphins and sea birds. After an active morning, you can relax on the gorgeous beaches of the park, such as Galapinhos Beach and Portinho da Arrabida .

3. Kayaking on the Mondego River

The Mondego River is the longest river that flows entirely within Portugal , stretching over 200 kilometers from the Serra da Estrela mountain range to the Atlantic Ocean. The combination of its beautiful surroundings – with high cliffs, extensive forests, and river beaches – and the yearlong stable water level made the Mondego the preferred river for canoeing and kayaking in Portugal .

Kayaking can be done in several sections, depending on your level of experience and preferences. One is the stretch between Penacova and Coimbra , where the river flows through steep granite cliffs and forests of oak and pine trees. It is known for its calm waters and therefore suitable for all levels of kayakers. The stretch between Figueira da Foz and the river mouth , where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean is a more challenging experience, with faster currents and some rapids! It is recommended for more experienced kayakers. Apart from kayaking you can also enjoy hiking and cycling along the river's banks, and you cannot miss a visit to the historic city of Coimbra , which is known for its medieval architecture, museums, and old University (founded in 1290), with impressive historic campuses and libraries.

4. Peneda Gerês National Park

Peneda-Gerês National Park is a beautiful nature park located in the North of Portugal , near the Spanish border. It is known for its stunning landscapes, hidden waterfalls, rugged mountains, and numerous rivers and lakes that provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking.

There are several spots within the park where you can start your kayaking adventures, such as the river Rio Lima and the Caniçada Reservoir . The Rio Lima is a slow-moving river that meanders through the park's forests, offering a peaceful and scenic kayaking experience. The Caniçada Reservoir, on the other hand, is a larger body of water that offers more challenging kayaking conditions, with stronger currents and winds. Kayaking in Peneda-Gerês National Park is a great way to explore the park's natural beauty and enjoy an adventurous activity in the great outdoors.

5. Sea kayaking in the Algarve

Lagos is a historical coastal city located in the Algarve , in southern Portugal . Lagos is not only known for its picturesque old town and ancient walls, but also for its stunning coastline, with rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal location for kayakers of all skill levels . Departing from Lagos beach you’ll have the chance to see some amazing rock formations that rise from the sea - like Ponta da Piedade - up close, observe local wildlife, discover some amazing secluded beaches - including Praia da Batata and Praia Dona Ana - and take impressive photographs. You might also want to put the Benagil Cave on your kayaking list. It is a beautiful sea cave famous for its stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations.

6. Alqueva Lake night kayaking

The Alqueva Lake is the largest artificial lake in Europe, created by the construction of the Alqueva Dam on the Guadiana River, located in the Alentejo region in southern Portugal . The Alqueva Lake area has been designated as a Dark Sky Reserve for its exceptionally clear night skies that are free from light pollution. For this it is one of the best places in the world for stargazing , and what about doing this from your kayak? Night kayaking on Alqueva Lake provides a unique opportunity to experience the stillness and tranquility of the lake under the stars. The darkness allows you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area and the silence is only interrupted by the sound of your paddles in the water.

7. Douro International Natural Park

The Douro Internacional Nature Park is located in the northeastern part of the country, where the Douro River serves as the natural border between Portugal and Spain . The river flows in a deep valley of about 130 km long surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains, for which it earned the title of the “ Grand Canyon ” of the Iberian Peninsula. Kayaking is a popular activity in the Douro Internacional Nature Park. From your kayak, you can absorb the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and might even spot local fauna while you paddle through the river.

Contact us and discover more hidden gems of Portugal and find some inspiration for your next Portugal holiday in our Portugal Adventure Weeks , Portugal Family Adventures and Portugal Adventure Getaways .

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O Pioneiro - Kayak-tours on the Mondego

Every day, between penacova and coimbra, kayaking in portugal on the mondego river.

O Pioneiro do Mondego is a family owned company of adventure sports and eco-tourism in Penacova . Our main activities are the daily kayak-trips downstream the river Mondego between Penacova and Coimbra. The descents are a perfect activity for couples and families with children, for lone nature-loving travelers, for scouting summer-camps, for schools or as a teambuilding activity for companies, around Coimbra in the center of Portugal.

Our kayak tours are one of the main outdoor activities in Coimbra, Portugal

The main kayak river in portugal.

It was founded in 1988 by two Belgian teachers, Dirk and Kristien, and was one of the first companies in adventure tourism in Portugal. Over the years the company has grown and more than 100.000 people from all over the world have kayaked on the Mondego with us. Today O Pioneiro do Mondego is a national and international reference ; in 2014 our company has been nominated among the top-15 highlights of Portugal by the “Rough Guides”.

Cruises in Portugal: The Top 6 Cruise Holidays You Must Take

Are you looking for a way to explore Portugal just as the country’s famous explorers Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias did? Or perhaps you are looking for a luxurious and all-inclusive getaway abroad.

Today we’ll discuss what cruises are available in and to Portugal, which are the best ones to board and answer some common questions about cruise ships in Portugal.

Cruises in Portugal

Portugal is considered one of Europe’s top countries for both river cruises down the stunning Douro River and Mediterranean cruises that visit Spain, Italy and more.

Immune to the economic crises, the cruise industry continues to grow with more than 1.3 million cruise passengers entering the Portuguese ports just in 2017.

So, if you’re looking for a holiday where you can explore parts of Portugal without having to worry about anything else: accommodation, food, entertainment, are all taken care of, then this will be your kind of trip.

Should You Choose a Mediterranean Cruise or a River Cruise?

Choosing between the two types of cruises is not easy, it will all depend on how much time you have and what kind of experiences you’re looking for. Here’s a brief description of what you can expect from each type of cruise.

Mediterranean cruises in Portugal

A Mediterranean cruise from Portugal will take you along the coast from Lisbon to Porto and then onwards to other destinations like Spain.

These types of cruises are a comprehensive way to explore the Iberian Peninsula as they include accommodation, meals, and daily tours.

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River Cruises in Portugal

The Douro River is the main river where cruises depart from in Portugal.

It’s perfect if you want to wake up to incredible views each morning without repeatedly unpacking and packing your bags.

If you only want to visit Portugal, then riverboats offer journeys specifically designed for sailing the Douro River.

They don’t feature as many amenities as the big cruise lines, but you can be sure you’ll experience the same scenic views.

The boats also feature bars, lounges and dining areas, comfortable and even luxurious cabins, as well as the friendly and knowledgeable crew.

Take a trip down the Douro River with bePortugal’s tips .

The Best Cruises in Portugal

We’ve carefully selected the top cruises for travellers to Portugal and the Mediterranean – from tours through Porto to journeys reaching Portugal’s island archipelagos, and as far as France and Spain.

1. Porto’s Finest – Port Wine and the Douro River

A cruise in the douro river.

Spend eight days aboard the MS Amadouro, venturing the Douro River and embarking upon the best of Portugal’s wine regions.

You will get to tour the famous São Bento Railway Station and learn about its history, sample traditional Portuguese cuisine, soak in the beauty of the Douro River, and tour the Baroque-style Palácio de Mateus and its enchanting gardens.

Find more details about this trip here .

From €2.726 per person

2. Single Best of Port Wine and Flamenco

Cruise from lisbon to madrid.

A 14-day tour on board the MS Amavida , starting in Lisbon and finishing in Madrid. You will enjoy three days in the city of Lisbon, touring downtown and the historical centre of Belém.

The journey will then take you through some of Europe’s wildest and unexplored wine regions, then travel to Madrid, Spain’s capital and largest city for three nights.

If you like port wine and flamenco you will love this one! Check out more details here .

From €4.318 per person

3. Wine Lovers Unite – Gastronomy, Vineyards, and Grand Crus

A cruise in lisbon, porto and bordeaux in france.

Embark the L’Austral in Portugal’s capital city Lisbon for 10 days of gastronomy and the world’s finest vineyards.

You will depart the UNESCO World Heritage city of Porto, known for its traditional Port wine.

From there you will travel to Bordeaux, the world capital of wine, to not only drink delicious wine but also learn about the science and study of winemaking.

You will then explore medieval towns in France and enjoy stunning views from your ship before ending the tour in the United Kingdom.

This cruise seems like so much fun. You can click here to find more details.

From €4.399 per person

4. Cross the Atlantic – South America to Portugal

Cruise from south america to portugal.

All aboard the Le Champlain, a 12-day cruise leaving Cayenne (French Guiana) in South America, crossing the Atlantic Ocean and arriving in Lisbon.

This journey is the perfect opportunity for sea lovers to enjoy both the luxury and comfort of a cruise ship with the open sea.

You will spend 10 days at sea where you can admire the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean from the upper deck, relax in a spa or pool, learn sailing techniques, and above all enjoy a break from everyday life.

This seems like a perfect cruise for a honeymoon or if you’re just looking for some special time with your partner. You can find all the price options on their website .

Prices start at €2.120 per person

5. Wonders of Andalucia and the Algarve

A cruise in andalucia and the algarve.

For countless picturesque views, the MS La Belle de Cadix will take you across the southern regions of Spain and Portugal, highlighting the architectural jewels of both countries.

From Seville to Cadiz you will enjoy the UNESCO classified monuments and Guadalquivir River.

Then discover Faro, the capital city of the Algarve, boasting divine views of the coastline. You’ll then explore the rich architecture of Granada before disembarking the cruise in Seville.

All the details about this trip can be found here .

From €2.337 per person

If you’re going to have some time to explore Faro, we’ve made this guide to help you enjoy it to the fullest.

6. The Portuguese Archipelagos – the Azores and Madeira

A cruise in the azores and madeira.

Discover the charms of Portugal’s island archipelagos north-west of the mainland on an 8-day adventure aboard the Le Champlain.

You will first enjoy the beauty of the Azores, a stunning natural environment with hot springs, natural lakes and volcanic craters.

From there you will travel south to Madeira, an outdoor lovers’ paradise.

Here you will explore beautiful landscapes, vegetation, banana plantations, botanical gardens, ancient fortress and the city of Funchal.

The trip ends in Lisbon where you can discover the nation’s capital city.

From €2.600 per person

Both the Azores and Madeira are stunning. Check out what we had to say about each of these destinations.

All You Need to Know Before Boarding a Cruise Ship Your Destinations

• Your destinations

Refer to the itinerary of your cruise ship for its destinations.

Typically, river cruises in Portugal will stick to the coastline or the Douro River. If it stops in other locations, transport will be provided.

• Dining Aboard

No need to worry about fitting in all your food groups, all meals on your ship are prepared by excellent local chefs and every taste gourmet.

• Passports Required

Non-EU citizens travelling to Europe will need a valid passport for at least 6 months to board a cruise.

• Booking Promotions

There are often great deals and promotions offered through a variety of websites travel agents.

Once you’ve decided which cruise you’d like to board, be sure you land the hottest deal.

• Travelling with Kids

Portugal cruises are predominantly centred around sightseeing and wine tasting so are usually more fitting for older couples.

If you do plan to bring children, check what kid-friendly facilities like kid’s clubs or playgrounds are on board before booking.

Alternatives to Long-Stay Cruises – Day Trips

If you want to experience sailing along the Douro River but 12 days is too long, then there are plenty of tour companies offering day trips.

You can combine a wine tour and river cruise in Porto or simply sail along the Tagus River in Lisbon.

These day trips are also more budget-friendly for travellers, with prices starting from as little as €15.

Be sure to read up on your ship’s inclusions before booking and embarking.

Happy Cruising!

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Kayaking in Algarve: 5 Top Places (+Map), Best Tours & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 7, 2024

Looking for the best places to go kayaking in the Algarve region in southern Portugal? In this guide, you can read about the most scenic kayaking locations on the Algarve coast. For each place, we also include recommendations for the best kayak (or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)) tours or rental options, as well as some practical tips and useful info. Find out!

With its dramatic scenery, colorful sandstone cliffs, hidden caves, and crystal-clear waters, the Algarve coast is absolutely spectacular. While there are many ways to enjoy the scenery and gorgeous views, there is no better way to appreciate the beauty of the Algarve coast than by seeing it from the water. Indeed, no visit to the Algarve would be complete without taking at least one boat trip…

If you want to explore the stunning coastal landscapes from close by, there is simply no better way to do that than kayaking or standup paddleboarding. The good news is that the area offers plenty of opportunities for both seasoned kayakers and beginners alike and that it’s very easy to include a kayak experience into any Algarve itinerary .

But where exactly to go and what to expect? Should you book a tour or simply rent a kayak or a SUP? What to wear, what to take with you, and what to leave behind? When is the best time to go kayaking? Can everyone do it?…

In this article, we share the best (and our favorite) kayaking spots in the Algarve, coupled with practical tips and recommendations to help you plan an unforgettable experience of your own. We also include suggestions for the best Algarve SUP- and kayak tours. At the bottom of this article, you will find answers to all the frequently asked questions about kayaking in Algarve.

Important: Be sure to also read our practical tips at the bottom of this article when considering whether to rent a kayak or join a guided kayaking tour in Algarve.

Kayaking in the ocean – and especially entering sea caves – is much safer when done with local guides who have experience in these specific conditions. Even a seemingly simple thing like coming back to shore can be tricky in certain conditions.

But first, let’s dive in and take a look at the best spots to discover by kayak or SUP! For each place, we also include some useful information, practical tips, and our hand-picked selection of the best kayaking tours in that specific area.

These are the most beautiful places to go kayaking in Algarve:

1. Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave probably needs no introduction. If you have done any research for your trip, then you already know that this majestic natural wonder is the most popular place to see on the Algarve coast. It would be unthinkable to visit the region without seeing this impressive sea cave and the stunning coastline around it.

So it will come as no surprise that Benagil Cave is also the first place that comes to mind when people think of kayaking in the Algarve. As you will see further below, there are so many other amazing locations to discover by kayak, but Benagil Cave is certainly the best-known and most popular of them all.

Recognized as one of the most impressive sea caves in Europe, its sight will take your breath away. The moment you enter through the natural archway, you’ll be greeted by the grandeur of this cathedral-like cave hiding a tiny beach inside. What makes it even more special is the way the sunbeams light up the cave through a big hole in the ceiling.

It’s a magical place! However, since it’s extremely popular and boats go in and out all the time, it’s often difficult to appreciate just how special it is. Visiting Benagil Cave by kayak or SUP is definitely a more unique experience than by boat and you can admire the stunning interior from a more intimate perspective.

Good to know: The best kayaking tours in this area include much more than just Benagil Cave! They also continue further east, in the direction of Praia da Marinha , one of the most beautiful beaches in Algarve . More about it further below.

Practical Info & Best Kayak Tours at Benagil Cave

While you can just rent a kayak at the nearby Benagil Beach, we highly recommend going with a guided kayak/SUP tour. Local guides have experience and know the area, and it will be safer. Plus, most tours here explore more of the spectacular coastline bringing you to the nicest sea caves nearby as well.

Whatever you decide – renting a kayak/SUP or going on a tour, be sure to book at least a few days in advance! Benagil Cave tours are extremely popular and tend to sell out, not just in the peak season.

Since recently, the rules for visiting Benagil Cave have been strengthened. The biggest change is that it is not allowed to disembark or swim to/inside the cave. Boat tours and kayak tours operate as usual. For more information, please see our page “ Is Benagil Cave Closed? “.

Here are some of the best options for visiting the area around Benagil Cave by kayak or SUP:

• Kayak rental (self-guided kayaking, starting from Benagil Beach).
• Guided kayak tour from Benagil Beach.
• SUP tour from Benagil Beach.
• Guided kayak tour from Praia da Marinha.
• From Albufeira or from Portimao (you cover the big distance by boat and then visit inside the caves by kayak or SUP).

Good to know: Because Benagil Cave is so popular, it’s best to visit here as early in the morning as possible before too many boats arrive in the area. The sea is usually quieter, not even to mention that it will be safer to enter the cave.

Alternatively, consider a late afternoon/sunset kayak tour. The sea might be a bit rougher, but it’s incomparably quieter than during the day.

TIP: If you are staying not too far in the area, consider sunrise or sunset kayak tours and visit outside the busiest hours. As I said, Benagil Cave is the most popular excursion in the area. It’s difficult to imagine how busy a natural site can get unless you have experienced it.

READ ALSO: How to Visit Benagil Cave

2. Ponta da Piedade, Lagos

Located just near one of the most beautiful towns in Algarve – Lagos, Ponta da Piedade is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The coastline here is stunning, with towering cliffs and magnificent rock formations that adorn the shoreline.

If you are looking for the most beautiful places for kayaking in Algarve, Ponta da Piedade will not disappoint. This is our personal favorite spot to kayak in the region.

One of the highlights of kayaking at Ponta da Piedade is the opportunity to get really close to one of the most remarkable places on the Algarve coast and see its hidden caves and grottoes. With narrow passageways and impressive sea arches, kayaking is one of the best ways to explore this mesmerizing labyrinth created by the power of the ocean.

Kayaking here is more special than at Benagil Cave. At Ponta da Piedade, you can enter many more really impressive sea caves and the scenery here is more impressive. Plus, if you can avoid peak times – it’s not nearly as busy as kayaking at Benagil Cave.

READ ALSO: Complete Guide to Visiting Ponta da Piedade

Practical Info & Best Kayak Tours at Ponta da Piedade

While Ponta da Piedade is not far from Lagos town center by car, it’s quite a distance if you have to paddle all the way there. So there are two types of kayak tours to Ponta da Piedade: by kayak from one of the nearby beaches or by boat from Lagos Marina, followed by kayaking at Ponta da Piedade. The latter is less tiring.

Good to know: While not as popular as Benagil Cave, Ponta da Piedade is one of the top places to visit in Algarve , so expect it to be busy, especially in the summer. Also here, if you want to take a kayak tour, be sure to reserve in advance!

TIP: Also here, we highly recommend going first thing in the morning. Not only is the ocean usually calmer, but it’s also incomparably quieter. We recently did this amazing kayak tour starting at 8.45 am in July and there were just a few boats and kayaks at first. By 10-10.30 am, it got really busy already, and we saw even more boats heading toward Ponta da Piedade on our way back to Lagos. The guides told us that 10 am – 2 pm is the busiest time.

Alternatively, you may want to go late in the afternoon – starting at 4-5 pm. Just keep in mind that the wind is usually much stronger in the afternoon.

Here are some of the best kayak tours to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos:

• Boat + kayak – this is the most popular kayaking tour, starting from Lagos Marina. Because of the better schedule and slightly better reviews, we recently chose this tour . I think that they are practically identical. Anyway, the one we took uses rather small boats, so the groups were not too big – just 7 or 8 kayaks including the guide.
• Guided kayak tour starting from the beach next to the fortress in Lagos. You’ll have to paddle longer to get to Ponta da Piedade, but they do use a motorboat to help tow the kayaks on the way back, so it’s manageable even for beginners.
• Guided SUP tour starting at Dona Ana Beach, even closer to Ponta Piedade.

LEARN MORE: Kayaking at Ponta da Piedade

3. Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is a beautiful beach located very close to Benagil Cave. It’s well known as the starting point of the famous Seven Hiking Valleys Trail , but most people only explore this area from the shore. And because most kayak tours that visit Benagil Cave don’t go much further than that, it’s worth mentioning Praia da Marinha separately.

The coastline east of Praia da Benagil and west of Praia da Marinha is absolutely stunning! With towering sandstone cliffs, impressive rock formations, and hidden coves, kayaking here will leave you in awe at every stroke of your paddle.

This is definitely one of the nicest places to go kayaking in Algarve. If you ask me, I think it’s worth a visit just as much – if not more – as Benagil Cave itself.

So if you already plan on exploring this part of Algarve by kayak, we highly recommend booking a longer tour that brings you toward Praia da Marinha, and not just to Benagil Cave.

Practical Info & Best Kayak Tours near Praia da Marinha

As already mentioned, Praia da Marinha is located in the same area as Benagil Cave. So most kayak tours visiting the Cave will bring you to this area as well. However, it’s not always the case, especially for shorter tours, SUP tours, or tours that start further away.

So if you want to combine a visit to Benagil Cave with kayaking along this stunning coastline near Marinha Beach, be sure to read the tour description before you book. While it’s well possible that tours include a visit here too without mentioning it, if it’s not in the description, you can never be guaranteed.

Here are some of the best kayak tours to explore the coastline near Praia da Marinha + Benagil Cave:

• Kayak tour from Benagil Beach.
• Kayak tour from Praia da Marinha.
• Boat + kayak tour from Portimao.

4. Albufeira: Coastline Between Praia de São Rafael & Praia do Castelo

Praia de São Rafael and Praia do Castelo are among the most beautiful beaches in Albufeira , in the central Algarve. The scenery here is stunning, with limestone cliffs, sea caves, hidden coves, and lovely little beaches dotting the coastline.

This area is not as well known as the most popular kayaking locations in Algarve mentioned above. To us, that’s part of its charm. There are just a few companies renting kayaks/organizing kayak tours here, so it feels like a much more authentic kayaking experience compared to the ones listed above.

The pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a leisurely paddle along the coast. There are no big famous landmarks here, so there is not one place that you absolutely ‘have to’ see.

It’s more about the experience itself, kayaking along one of the most scenic coastlines in the world. If the sea conditions allow it, you can also enter a couple of sea caves.

Practical Info & Kayaking in Albufeira

The nicest stretch of coastline to explore by kayak in Albufeira is located between the beaches of Sao Rafael and Castelo, west of the city and past the Marina.

São Rafael Beach is located 5 km west of Albufeira town center, about 10 minutes drive by car. Castelo Beach is a bit further west, about the same driving time. Unless you take a tour directly from Albufeira, you will need a car, or taxi/Uber/Bolt to get to these beaches.

Good to know: There are several places where you can rent a kayak or join a kayak tour here. One option is to start directly at either Sao Rafael Beach or Castelo Beach. The second option is to come with a boat + kayak tour from Albufeira Marina. In that case, you cover the bigger distance by boat and then switch to kayaks when you get to the most scenic part of the coast.

Whatever you decide, be sure to book in advance. Albufeira is a very popular place and everyone is looking for nice things to do nearby, so kayak tours often sell out as well.

Here are the best kayak tours in Albufeira:

• Boat + kayak tour , starting from Albufeira Marina. Or a similar tour that also offers a SUP option.
• Kayak/SUP tour starting at Sao Rafael Beach.
• Kayak tour starting at Castelo Beach.
• SUP tour starting at Coelha Beach.

Good to know: No matter which of the above options you choose, you’ll be kayaking in the same area.

5. Ria Formosa

Ria Formosa is a nature reserve located in the eastern Algarve. Stretching for over 60 kilometers (40 miles), Ria Formosa Nature Park is made up of several barrier islands and peninsulas, with an extensive network of lagoons, channels, and marshes. The wetlands of Ria Formosa are also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, best known for a big variety of birdlife.

One of the main highlights of kayaking in Ria Formosa Lagoon is the incredible birdwatching opportunities. Depending on the season, you might be able to see flamingos here too. Just keep in mind that flamingos tend to be around in the colder months when kayaking may not be the best idea.

The scenery in this part of the Algarve coast is totally different than the best kayaking spots mentioned earlier. The waters here are somewhat more protected from the ocean, so the kayaking itself is quite different.

Good to know: Kayaking at Ria Formosa is more about the adventure than the scenery. While absolutely nice, it doesn’t have the wow effect that you have when kayaking next to the famous Algarve coastal cliffs.

This is more something fun to do if you are looking for a less touristy experience or a nice relaxing day out with the family. Depending on how much time you have, you can kayak to Faro Beach, where you can also go for a swim or have lunch, etc.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Faro

Practical Info & Kayaking in Ria Formosa

As already mentioned, Ria Formosa Nature Park covers a huge area. Most people visit here by boat , or just take a ferry to one of the islands and spend time at the beach. The best place where you can rent a kayak or join a guided kayak tour of Ria Formosa is Faro, more precisely Faro Marina.

Because kayaking here is easier than in central Algarve, you can also opt to just rent a kayak and explore on your own. But there is also a guided tour available if you rather go with a local guide who knows the area well.

Either way, keep in mind that the ecosystem here is fragile, so avoid disturbing wildlife and leave no trace behind.

Here are the best options for kayaking in Ria Formosa:

• Kayak hire from Faro (you can choose between 2.5 and 4 hours).
• Guided tour by kayak from Faro.

Map of the best kayaking spots in the Algarve

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the kayaking locations mentioned in this guide.

Keep in mind that you always have to double-check the exact location of your kayak/SUP tour or rental!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Info & Tips for Kayaking in Algarve

As already said, there are some things you may want to know before booking a kayak tour or renting a kayak or a SUP in Algarve. Below are some of our experience-based tips and information that you may find useful.

Should you book a tour or just rent a kayak?

Consider your skill level, location, and sea conditions when deciding whether or not to go kayaking in Algarve, and if you rather do it on your own or with a local guide.

Sea conditions permitting, kayaking in Algarve is generally suitable for all levels including complete beginners. However, there are some elements that can make it potentially dangerous, even if you have kayaked before. For example, even if the sea is seemingly calm, it can be unsafe to enter (certain) sea caves or grottos, or even to disembark at the beach without external help.

If in doubt, we recommend booking a tour. It’s hardly more expensive than kayak hire and you will be more at ease. Experienced local guides know the area, can provide valuable insights, and can better estimate how safe it is to enter the caves or stop at certain beaches, etc. Plus, the guides can take you to hidden gems that you might not discover on your own.

Good to know: When kayaking, be sure to take some breaks and just enjoy the scenery. Going on a kayaking tour, we were actually surprised at how relaxing it was; we never felt rushed.

Can everyone go kayaking in Algarve, also as a complete beginner?

First and foremost – if you have never kayaked before, we highly recommend that you go with a local guide!

For the rest, pretty much everyone in good physical shape can join a kayak tour in Algarve. However, there are a couple of things to consider.

First, you have to be able to swim. Second, you have to be able to get in and out of a kayak. Furthermore, sitting in a kayak for a longer time isn’t very comfortable so it can be tough for people who have back issues. They also don’t recommend kayaking to sea caves to people with claustrophobia.

Finally, there are maximum weight limits, usually 100-110 kg (220-243 lbs). If you are heavier than the weight limit provided by the company that rents a kayak or organizes kayak tours, do yourself a favor and respect that. If you are too heavy, you risk tipping over, and getting back into the kayak won’t be easy. Not even to mention that you may hit the rocks and hurt yourself.

TIP: If you are not sure about kayaking, but want to see the beautiful scenery and explore the famous sea saves in Algarve, there are plenty of small-boat tours that can also bring you inside some of the caves.

When is the best time to go kayaking in Algarve?

In principle – sea conditions permitting – you can go kayaking in the Algarve almost the whole year. That being said, most kayak rentals and tours don’t run in the coldest winter months.

Most kayak tours run between April – October, some from March to November.

The best time of the day is generally in the morning. That’s when the sea is usually calmer and conditions are better for kayaking. However, in the summer, the ocean is often as calm as a lake and you can go kayaking pretty much any time.

That being said, if you go kayaking at the most popular locations like Benagil Cave or Ponta da Piedade, you may want to avoid the busiest hours (10 am – 2 pm) as it can get crazy busy with hundreds of kayaks and boats trying to navigate inside the sea caves.

Kayaking in Algarve with kids

Yes, you can go kayaking in Algarve with kids. There are certain age limits, depending on the place and tour company. In most cases, kids under 5-6 years are not allowed. But some tours allow kids from 3-4 years as well.

You may want to know that most companies offer single and double kayaks. Double kayaks also have a small third seat in the middle, where – theoretically – a child could sit. While not the most comfortable solution, it could be done with 3 people in a kayak.

However, when we went kayaking with our three kids (so 5 of us in total), the guides advised us to take two double kayaks and a single kayak. This worked well for us as our oldest son could go on his own and we each took one of the younger kids with us. But I would be hesitant to let a kid younger than +-12 go on their own, mainly because kayaking for an hour or two in the ocean can get quite tiring if you have no one to help you paddle.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Algarve with Kids

What to wear and what to pack for kayaking

Normally, all you need for kayaking in Algarve is (swim) shorts and a T-shirt. In the colder months, some companies will provide wetsuits. You should always wear a life jacket as well (life jackets should be provided when you rent a kayak or take a tour).

In summer, a sun hat can be a good idea as well, just make sure that it sits tight and cannot blow away with the wind. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen lotion before you go kayaking – even if it doesn’t feel too warm.

Most people go kayaking without any footwear. Shoes would get wet and flip-flops could get lost, so the only footwear that is suitable is water shoes .

I personally always prefer to wear water shoes since you never know what you might step on, but it’s not a must.

For the rest, you will be asked to leave everything behind. Most companies usually have a place where you can safely store your belongings while you are kayaking. But ideally, you don’t bring anything that you don’t absolutely need.

If you really have to take something with you, make sure that you have a small waterproof bag . Some places might offer to borrow or rent them, but our experience in Algarve is that they simply ask you not to take anything.

READ ALSO: Algarve Travel Tips

Can you take your camera with you?

This really depends. If you have a waterproof camera like a GoPro or a very good waterproof phone case for your smartphone, normally, you should be able to take it with you. Most guides will tell you that – even with all precautions – too many accidents happen when people’s phones/cameras get damaged by seawater.

But if you have a waterproof case for your smartphone and can hang it over your neck, then normally, you can take it with you and take some nice photos. I wouldn’t take a phone without protection though because you can’t avoid seawater splashing on it.

When I take my smartphone on a kayak, I always use a waterproof case. I also have to remind myself to clean the lens area all the time – or all the pictures would turn out hazy like the one you can see below…

You may also want to know that even if kayaking itself goes really smoothly, the landing on the beach can be quite rough, and you (and your phone) risk getting wet.

This is normally not an issue if you are going on a tour where you launch directly from a bigger boat and not from the coast. For example, this boat + kayak tour from Albufeira to Benagil Caves or this Ponta da Piedade kayak tour from Lagos. Still, there is always a risk that a phone/camera will get wet on a kayak.

If you just want a few pictures to remember the moment, forget the camera and ask the guides to take some pictures of you. Most guides will offer to do that and they afterward send the pictures via WhatsApp or e-mail.

Without a camera, you can really just be there and enjoy the experience without looking for a perfect shot. But if you absolutely want to take your own pictures, then make sure that your phone/camera can handle seawater and/or is very well protected so that it can’t get wet or lost.

So, this is our guide to kayaking in the Algarve.

As you can see, the Algarve region offers plenty of amazing kayaking opportunities. From hidden caves and dramatic cliffs to pristine beaches and even wetlands, there is no shortage of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Happy paddling!

TIP: On our blog, you can find lots of guides for the Algarve region. See some of the highlighted articles via the links below. For more destinations all over the country including Portuguese islands, please check our Portugal travel guide .

More travel inspiration for the Algarve region:

• Best Places to See & Things to Do in Algarve
• Best Beaches in Algarve
• Best Towns to Visit in Algarve
• Seven Hiking Valleys Trail (best hike in Algarve)
• Best Things to Do in Lagos
• Where to Stay in Lagos
• Best Things to Do in Sagres
• Best Things to Do in Albufeira
• Most Beautiful Beaches in Albufeira
• Where to Stay in Albufeira
• Albufeira Restaurants: Our Favorites
• Zoomarine Algarve
• Slide & Splash Water Park Algarve
• What It’s Like to Visit Algarve in April
• What It’s Like in Algarve in November

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Portugal travel guide

Portugal tourism | portugal guide, you're going to love portugal.

With a vibrant and diverse culture, almost 300 days of sunshine a year, and mouthwatering cuisine, Portugal is one of the countries in Europe you can't miss.

What to do in Portugal

1. discover serra da estrela.

Regardless of the season, visit Serra da Estrela - mainland Portugal's highest mountain and home of the delicious cheese with the same name.

2. Drive Across the Country

Take a road trip down EN2. Dubbed as the Route 66 of Portugal, this road connects Chaves in the north to Faro in the south.

3. Enjoy Portugal's Biggest Street Party

Visit Lisbon during the St. Anthony's festivities in June to indulge in grilled sardines on bread in the streets of Alfama, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Portuguese capital.

4. Experience the Wonders of the Algarve Region

Explore the Algarve by hiking down the Costa Vicentina from Odeceixe to Burgau. Mingle with local fishermen, surf, and lounge on golden-sand beaches.

5. Take a Wine Tour

From the Alentejo in the south to the Douro Valley in the north, find out what makes Portuguese wine worldwide famous.

When to visit Portugal

From December to February, there are fewer tourist crowds but also fewer events happening in Portugal. June to September are the busiest months to visit Portugal, but also the best to enjoy the wonderful beaches and attend summer music festivals if you prefer a more active vacation.

How to Get to Portugal

Entry requirements.

Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Zone. Travelers from other countries need to apply for a visa, except citizens from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. For these countries, all you need is a valid passport to enter the country.

Mainland Portugal is served by three airports: Faro, Lisbon, and Porto. Three international airports serve the autonomous archipelagos: Funchal (on Madeira Island) and Ponta Delgada and Lajes, on the islands of São Miguel and Terceira respectively.

Portugal has regular train connections with Spain. Trains from Madrid arrive in Lisbon and trains from Vigo arrive in Porto.

You can travel to the two main cities in Portugal, Porto and Lisbon, from Madrid via the highways A25 and A5. Both routes take about 6h.

Portugal has regular connections to other European cities via Madrid, Sevilla, or Granada in Spain. Eurolines and Busabout are two of the Europe-based bus companies operating these routes.

Lisbon has the only cruise ship port in mainland Portugal, so this city is the only gateway into the country for passengers arriving by sea.

Popular airports in Portugal

Popular airlines serving portugal, where to stay in portugal.

In the main cities like Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Funchal, and Ponta Delgada, you will find a wide variety of accommodation types, from budget-friendly hostels to high-end luxury hotels. Short-term rentals are also a favorite option for accommodation in Portugal.

Where to stay in popular areas of Portugal

Most booked hotels in portugal, how to get around portugal, public transportation.

Most cities and towns in Portugal are served by an efficient network of local buses. Larger cities, like Lisbon and Porto, are served by trams, subways, and suburban trains.

There are three long-distance trains, all operated by CP - Comboios de Portugal: Alfa Pendular, which serves the main cities, InterCity, which serves some of the inland cities, and regional trains, which typically serve smaller towns.

All cities in Portugal are served by their local network of buses, usually city-run. For long-distance trips, book a ticket with bus company Rede Expresso.

Portugal has a mix of well-kept highways and toll-free secondary roads. In main cities like Lisbon and Porto, avoid driving during rush hours between 8:00-9:30 am and from 5:00-7:30 pm.

Connections between mainland Portugal and the archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira are exclusively made by plane from Lisbon, Porto, or Faro. TAP Air Portugal, Azores Airlines, and Ryanair are the companies operating regular flights. You can also take domestic flights from Lisbon to Porto or Faro.

Best car rental deals in Portugal

4 Adults, 2 Bags

2 Adults, 2 Bags

The Cost of Living in Portugal

Eating out is cheaper at lunchtime, with most restaurants serving special menus for approximately €10, on average, that includes a main dish, drink, and coffee or dessert. When using public transportation, a one-way ticket for a local bus or subway costs about €1.50 per person on average. Debit cards are widely accepted, while credit cards might only be accepted at local chains. In the main cities, ATMs are common, so you don't have to carry large sums of cash on you.

How To Visit Benagil Cave – Everything You Need To Know! (Best Tours, How To Get There, Top Tips & More!)

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

Benagil Cave is possibly one of the most famous places in Portugal, and for good reason.

It was made famous from a photo that went viral on social media, and it quickly became one of the most visited natural attractions of the Algarve.

We incorporated our Benagil Cave tour from Lagos with exploring other beaches in the area, and it was easily the best day of our Algarve itinerary.

I was afraid Benagil Cave would be an Instagram vs reality moment, where it looks stunning in photos but it wouldn’t be in person. I’m glad that I was proved wrong.

Benagil Caves in the Algarve is a huge sea cave with a hole in the ceiling and doors that open up directly in the sea. It’s a gorgeous natural formation, which deserves a place in your Portugal bucket list.

In this guide I put together everything you need to know about visiting Benagil Cave. Including how to get to Benagil Cave, the best Benagil Cave tours, the best time to visit, tips from my experience and more!

We visited Benagil Cave on a sunrise kayak tour, and it was the best decision we could have made. If you want to know everything about visiting Benagil Cave, read on!

• 1 What is Benagil Cave?
• 2 How to get to Benagil sea cave
• 3 Best time to visit Benagil Cave
• 4.1 Benagil Cave Kayak Tour
• 4.2 Benagil Cave Boat Trips
• 4.3 SUP tour to Benagil Cave
• 5 How much does a Benagil Cave tour cost?
• 6 Our experience visiting Benagil Cave
• 7 Where to stay to visit Benagil Cave
• 8 Visiting Benagil Cave FAQs

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

What is Benagil Cave?

Benagil Cave is a huge sea cave located on the southern coast of Portugal, in the Algarve region. It’s often described also as Benagil Cathedral, because of its huge size and imposing natural formation.

Benagil sea cave is characterised by two entrances facing the sea and a giant hole on its ceiling. Inside the cave there is also a small beach where you can walk around, dip your feet in the sea and enjoy this stunning sea cave.

From inside the cave you can see all the different shades of gold and amber rock that line the cave walls, telling the history of thousands of years of sea and wind erosion. It’s a sight of incredible natural beauty.

Kayaking into Benagil Cave from one of the grotto entrances on the sea

How to get to Benagil sea cave

You can only reach Benagil Cave by the sea. Despite being located along the Algarve coast on mainland Portugal, the entrances of Benagil Cave face directly into the sea.

If you walk along the coast you will be able to look into the distinctive hole of Benagil Cave, but you won’t be able to access the cave from there.

When I visited in summer 2021 they had placed a security fence around the hole, meaning you could look into Benagil Cave but without getting too close.

Our kayaks inside Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is just 200 metres from Benagil Beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in the Algarve .

You can only get to the Benagil Cave location by sea with a kayak, SUP or boat. Some people also swim to Benagil sea caves, as the distance is fairly short.

However this isn’t recommended unless you know the location and tides really well, and unless you’re a confident and strong swimmer. Joining a kayak , SUP or boat tour is the easiest and safest way to get to Benagil Cave.

The tours to Benagil Cave usually start directly in Benagil Beach, unless you book one specifically with a transfer. Since the town around it is fairly small, most people usually stay in either Lagos , Albufeira or Portimao to then visit Benagil.

These popular Algarve destinations are all within a 25 to 40 minute drive from Benagil. If you’re driving your own car to Benagil Cave, you can find a big free parking area here .

Click here to see prices and availability for your Benagil Cave tour, or check out the most popular Benagil Cave tours below!

Exploring Benagil Cave in the Algarve, Portugal

Best time to visit Benagil Cave

The best time to visit Benagil Cave is as early as possible in the morning. I’m not joking when I say that the time of visit could make or break your Benagil Cave tour.

We did a 7AM kayak tour to Benagil Cave and our group was the only one there. We spent half an hour wandering around the cave and taking photos, sharing this gorgeous natural rock formation with only 10 other people.

When we walked past the cave entrance later in the afternoon and peaked in, we were shocked by the amount of people and kayaks stacked inside the cave, to say nothing of the chaos that was Benagil Beach.

You should also check the tide times. We visited during low tide so there was a lot of sandy beach to sit and walk on. In the afternoon the tide had gone up, so besides there being more people, it also felt more crowded as the beach was smaller.

Me and my friend Martina on our Benagil Cave sunrise kayak tour

The best Benagil Cave tours

Being one of the most popular attractions in Portugal, it’s only natural that there would be hundreds of tours dedicated to visiting this one sea cave in the Algarve.

I always recommend booking your tour online beforehand, especially if you’re travelling in high season, as it will ensure you can do the tour you want and on your preferred date and time.

One of the cool things about doing a Benagil Cave tour is that there are loads of options to choose from. I have listed below some of the most popular tours to Benagil Cave.

Kayaking to Praia da Marinha during our Benagil Cave kayak tour

Benagil Cave Kayak Tour

We visited Benagil Cave on a kayak tour and loved it. The tour lasted 1.5 hours, of which around 30 minutes were spent inside Benagil Cave, taking photos and generally just admiring this gorgeous natural formation.

Besides Benagil Cave, we loved exploring this part of the Algarve coast by kayak, as it allows you to get really close to the huge staggering cliffs while also being close to the crystal clear sea.

There are lots of Benagil Cave kayak tours, so I have listed below some of the ones with the best reviews online.

Algarve: Benagil Caves 2-Hour Guided Kayaking Tour – The classic Benagil Cave kayak tour, starting in Benagil Beach for those who want to drive there alone and then explore the surroundings once the tour ends 

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak tour!

Kayaks ready for a sunrise tour to Benagil Cave

Algarve: Benagil Sea Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayak Experience – As I already mentioned the best time to visit Benagil Cave is as early as possible in the morning. Join this sunrise kayak tour for the opportunity to see Benagil Cave without the crowds!

Portimao: Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves – If you’re staying in Portimao and don’t have a car, this tour is a great way to visit Benagil, as it includes also the boat cruise there.

From Albufeira: Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP – Same thing for those who are staying in Albufeira, join this tour if you want both the boat cruise and kayak experience!

Check out prices & availability for your Benagil Cave kayak tour in the calendar below!

Getting ready for our kayak sunrise tour to Benagil Cave from Benagil Beach

One of the other sea caves we explored during our Benagil Cave kayak tour

Benagil Cave Boat Trips

If kayaking isn’t your thing, worry not! As there are also plenty of boat tours that can take you to Benagil Cave. I have listed below some of the most popular ones.

Portimao: Benagil Caves 2-Hour Speed Boat Tour – If you’re looking for a Benagil Cave tour from Portimao, this speed boat tour is a great choice! Besides Benagil Cave you will be able to explore also a large part of Portugese coast. 

Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour – For those who want a Benagil Cave tour from Albufeira, this boat tour also includes a dolphin watching experience! It’s like getting a 2-for-1 tour! 

Lagos: Benagil Sea Cave Tour – Last but not least, if you want to visit Benagil Cave from Lagos, this scenic cruise will allow you to do just that. 

Click here to book your boat tour to Benagil Cave,   or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Join a Benagil Cave boat tour

SUP tour to Benagil Cave

If you don’t fancy kayaking and you don’t want to be on a boat, you can also join a Benagil Caves SUP tour!

Algarve: Benagil Caves Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour – Discover the gorgeous Benagil sea cave, and the gorgeous coastline of the Algarve, by paddling out on your very own SUP! 

Click here to book your Benagil Cave SUP tour, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Exploring the Algarve coast by SUP

How much does a Benagil Cave tour cost?

Generally speaking, the tours to Benagil Caves range from 20 EUR to 50 EUR depending on what transport mode you choose and whether they include other services or attractions.

You should visit the page of the exact Benagil Cave tour you want to do to see their latest prices and availability.

If you want to save money you could try renting a kayak or SUP at Benagil Beach and making your own way to Benagil Cave, as it’s fairly close. However you would then miss out on the other sea caves the tours take you to visit.

Check out prices and availability for your Benagil sea cave tour here!

Benagil Beach – where most of the Benagil Cave tours start from

Our experience visiting Benagil Cave

I’ll be honest and say that before visiting Benagil Cave, I was convinced it would be one of those overhyped locations that became famous on social media but which is actually disappointing in real life.

I was very happy to be proved wrong. Benagil Cave in Portugal is a place of truly stunning natural beauty, which I believe should feature on everyone’s Europe bucket list .

Walking on the small beach inside the cave, looking up at the hole in the cave ceiling and admiring the layers of rock and erosion that brought it to look like that over millions of years, really has a way of making you feel small.

I also really enjoyed kayaking along the rest of the coast, exploring other sea caves and admiring the golden cliffs of Praia da Marinha. I thought it would be a lot of hype just for one cave, but there was actually more to it.

We did the 7AM sunrise kayak tour and were not disappointed. I heard from others who visited during the day that they hated it because huge number of kayaks, boats and people crowded into the cave.

Benagil Cave is a truly unique natural rock formation, which deserves its place on every Portugal itinerary . If you want to fully enjoy it, make the effort to wake up early and give it the attention it deserves.

Exploring Benagil Cave in the Algarve

Where to stay to visit Benagil Cave

The town surrounding Benagil Cave and Benagil Beach is fairly small and quiet. This is the reason why most travellers visiting Benagil Cave stay in other towns of the Algarve .

We stayed in Lagos and loved it, although it is the town furthest away. The drive from Lagos to Benagil Cave is around 40 minutes, but the town itself is very cute, as well as being close to Ponta da Piedade and other awesome Algarve beaches.

Albufeira is closer, only a 30-minute drive to Benagil, and a great place to stay for young travellers looking to party. The town has a beautiful beach right in front of it, and a reputation for being a party destination.

Portimao is also around a 30-minute drive from Benagil. It’s a great starting point for many of the boat and kayak tours to Benagil that I’ve listed above.

Some people try to visit Benagil Cave on a day trip from Lisbon but that’s not worth it in my opinion. You would spend longer driving back and forth than enjoying Benagil.

You should plan your Portugal itinerary to visit cities like Lisbon , Sintra and Porto on separate days from Benagil. 

Exploring the old town centre of Lagos in Portugal

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Here are some great accommodation options for every budget in each of these towns.

Budget in Lagos – Topcity Hostel & Suites :  This is the hostel we stayed at for two nights and a great choice for budget travellers. They have a rooftop pool, spacious terraces for every dorm and a fun sociable atmosphere.

Click here to see prices and availability at Topcity Hostel & Suites!

Mid-range in Albufeira – Casa dos Arcos :  This charming guest house is the perfect place to stay for those who want to treat themselves without breaking the bank. You can relax in their lovely courtyard after a long day of exploring the Algarve.

Check out prices and availability at Casa dos Arcos here!

Luxury in Portimao – Jupiter Marina Hotel : With its infinity pool with sea views, spacious rooms and spa, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself after an early morning kayaking to Benagil Cave!

Click here to book your stay at Jupiter Marina Hotel in Portimao here!

The rooftop pool at Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos

Visiting Benagil Cave FAQs

Conscious this article has become quite long, so I wanted to summarise the key points here!

How do I get to Benagil Cave? Benagil Cave is located 200 metres away from Benagil Beach, on the coast of mainland Portugal. You can only access the cave from the sea with a kayak, SUP or boat tour.

What is the best time to visit Benagil Cave? If you’re visiting in summer, the best time to see Benagil is at 7AM before the huge tourist crowds arrive. If you’re in Portugal in winter you can go also later during the day, although many tours won’t be running in low season so make sure to plan accordingly and book online beforehand.

Can you go to Benagil Cave without a tour? Technically yes. You could swim to Benagil Cave but it’s not recommended. You could also rent a kayak, SUP or boat and make your own way there, but you would miss on the explanation of how Benagil Cave was formed and the tour to the other nearby sea caves.

Is visiting Benagil Cave worth it? In my opinion yes. There is a reason this stunning natural cave became so famous in the first place, just make sure to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a pleasant experience at Benagil.

Where do I book a Benagil Cave tour?  I always recommend GetYourGuide as an online platform for tours. They offers loads of tours where you can read reviews, plus they have a very flexible cancellation policy.

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak tour, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

One of the entrances and the famous roof on the ceiling of Benagil Cave

Final thoughts on the best Benagil sea caves tours

There you have it, the ultimate guide to visiting Benagil Cave in the Algarve! I hope my article answers all the questions you might have about Benagil sea caves, and it will help plan your time there.

Whether you were wondering how to get to Benagil, whether it’s actually worth visiting or paying for a Benagil Cave tour, I tried to answer all your Benagil questions here.

While the enthusiasm around Benagil Cave is without a doubt a bit overhyped, this sea cave is truly beautiful and worth a visit. It was one of the highlights of our time in the Algarve.

We visited other seaside towns during our Portugal trip, such as Ericeira and Nazaré , but Benagil was special.

The Algarve is also a popular European winter destination . If you’re looking for a bit of winter sun , you can strike two birds with one stone and also get to enjoy Benagil Cave without the summer crowds.

If you have any questions about visiting Benagil Cave let me know in the comments below! Have you already been to Benagil Caves in Portugal? How did you find it? Tell me about your experiences in the comments below!

Looking for more Portugal travel tips? Check out my other Portugal travel guides!

• The perfect Azores 10-day itinerary
• Hiking in the Azores – Best trails, top tips & more!
• Sao Miguel, Azores – 10 best things to do
• Terceira Island, Azores – 11 amazing things to do
• How to see whales in the Azores

Enjoyed reading about how to visit Benagil Cave? Pin it!

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Home > Guide > Boat Tours

The Best Cruises and Boat Tours in Lagos

How to visit the grottoes and rock formations in lagos, on a cruise, boat tour or kayak.

Because Lagos' main attractions are its stunning rock formations and beaches, many of which you can only reach by sea, going on a boat tour is something most tourists end up doing. Departing from the marina or by the 17th-century fortress in the center of town, in speed boats or kayaks, these tours offer close-up views of the sculpted cliffs, islets, grottoes and caves , and the chance to experience beaches that few get to see. Other tours go all the way to other parts of Algarve, for dolphin-watching or sunset views . Below is a list of the most recommended tours in Lagos and surroundings.

The Best Lagos Tours

Catamaran Cruise of Lagos Beaches

You can explore the entire Lagos coastline on this cruise, admiring the famous and the secret beaches, and gaining insight from onboard commentary. Halfway through the tour, the catamaran stops in a secluded cove and you’re free to swim, snorkel, paddleboard or kayak. Need to share it all on social media right away? There’s onboard wifi! Book it here : Catamaran Cruise of Lagos Beaches

Ponta da Piedade, Caves and Grottoes Cruise

Although you can walk down the road or over the cliffs from central Lagos to the Ponta da Piedade headland, a cruise is the best way to see the spectacular rock formations, caves and grottoes, especially because many aren’t visible from above. Book it here : Ponta da Piedade, Caves and Grottoes Cruise

Kayak Tour of Ponta da Piedade, Caves and Beaches

A kayak allows you to access places that not all boats go through, tucking into even the smallest corners for close-up views of caves and grottoes. On this tour, you’ll discover those around Ponta da Piedade. Book it here : Kayak Tour of Ponta da Piedade, Caves and Beaches

Boat trip to Benagil Caves

The Benagil cave is now probably Algarve’s most iconic sight. Although it’s not in Lagos, this 2-hour tour of the coast takes you there. Book it here : Boat trip to Benagil Caves

Sagres Sunset Tour

Once known as “the end of the world,” Europe’s southwesternmost tip is also famous for its amazing sunsets. This tour shows you the dramatic coastline and stays until the sun disappears on the horizon. Book it here : Sagres Sunset Tour

Boat Tour of Ponta da Piedade Caves

Enjoy beaches only accessible by boat, and admire the beautiful cliffs and unique rock formations of Ponta da Piedade on this calm boat trip. Book it here : Boat Tour of Ponta da Piedade Caves

Boat Trip to Ponta da Piedade

Lagos’ natural wonders can be seen on this boat trip lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s perfect for those with a limited time in the city, and to gain an understanding of what you’re seeing through the commentary of a guide. Book it here : Boat Trip to Ponta da Piedade

Kayak Tour of Ponta da Piedade Grottoes

You don’t need to be an experienced kayaker to go on this tour. A guide gives you instructions and leads the way while telling you all about the beaches, caves and rock formations that you paddle past. Book it here : Kayak Tour of Ponta da Piedade Grottoes

Dolphin Watching Tour

Dolphins are a common sight in southern Portugal, and this tour with a marine biologist shows and explains these mammals in their natural habitat. Book it here : Dolphin Watching Tour

Complete Lagos Guide

Where to stay.

Top 10 Hotels

Beach Hotels

Romantic Hotels

5-Star Hotels

Hostels and Budget Hotels

What to See and Do

Top 10 Attractions

Ponta da Piedade

St. Anthony Church

Slave Market

Ponta da Bandeira Fortress

The Best Day Trips

Day Trip to Silves

Day Trip to Sagres

Cruises and Boat Tours

The Best Beaches

Praia do Camilo

Praia da Dona Ana

Praia da Batata

Praia dos Estudantes

Praia do Pinhão

Praia do Porto de Mós

Praia dos Pinheiros

Praia do Canavial

Praia da Luz

Beaches Map

Transportation

Lagos Transportation

From Lisbon

From Faro Airport

Bus from Faro

Bus to Sagres

Other Algarve Guides

Algarve Tourism

Albufeira Tourism

Faro Tourism

Tavira Tourism

Other Portugal Destinations

Lisbon Beaches

• Iniciar sessão
• KAYAK para Empresas NOVO

Onde queres ir?

• HI Lisboa - Pousada de Juventude 22 €+
• Hotel Excelsior 71 €+
• Holiday Inn Express Lisbon - Alfragide 82 €+
• Hotel Vip Executive Art's 85 €+
• Hotel Roma 89 €+
• Riviera Hotel Carcavelos 92 €+
• Omid Saldanha Hotel 98 €+
• Altis Park Hotel 98 €+
• Lagoas Park Hotel 99 €+
• Hotel Alif Avenidas 101 €+
• Turim Iberia Hotel 104 €+
• Hotel Borges Chiado 104 €+
• Tsar Hotel 106 €+
• Vip Grand Lisboa Hotel & Spa 107 €+
• Holiday Inn Lisbon 113 €+
• Voo Lajes - Lisboa (TER - LIS) 46 €+
• Voo Ponta Delgada - Lisboa (PDL - LIS) 50 €+
• Voo Funchal - Lisboa (FNC - LIS) 57 €+
• Voo Porto Santo - Lisboa (PXO - LIS) 60 €+
• Voo Porto - Lisboa (OPO - LIS) 68 €+
• Voo Faro - Lisboa (FAO - LIS) 75 €+
• Voo Horta - Lisboa (HOR - LIS) 122 €+
• Voo Ilha do Pico - Lisboa (PIX - LIS) 162 €+
• Safestay London Kensington Holland Park 23 €+
• Book A Bed Hostels 24 €+
• Generator London 30 €+
• Voo Faro - Londres (FAO - LTN) 31 €+
• Voo Faro - Londres (FAO - STN) 38 €+
• Voo Faro - Londres (FAO - LGW) 52 €+
• InOut Hostel Barcelona 24 €+
• Mellow Hostel Barcelona 27 €+
• Alberg Pere Tarrés 30 €+
• Bcnsporthostels 30 €+
• Voo Porto - Barcelona (OPO - BCN) 33 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Barcelona (LIS - BCN) 42 €+
• Voo Faro - Barcelona (FAO - BCN) 106 €+
• Voo Funchal - Barcelona (FNC - BCN) 189 €+
• Residencial Funchal 45 €+
• Residencial Colombo 49 €+
• Residencial Greco 49 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Funchal (LIS - FNC) 52 €+
• Voo Porto - Funchal (OPO - FNC) 57 €+
• Voo Porto Santo - Funchal (PXO - FNC) 80 €+
• Soneca Plaza Hotel 27 €+
• Hotel Dan Inn Planalto São Paulo 30 €+
• Gran Villagio Hotel SP by Castelo Itaipava 31 €+
• Voo Porto - São Paulo (OPO - GRU) 552 €+
• Voo Lisboa - São Paulo (LIS - GRU) 613 €+
• Voo Lisboa - São Paulo (LIS - VCP) 723 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Salvador (LIS - SSA) 643 €+
• Hotel Boustane 19 €+
• Washington Hotel 25 €+
• Hotel Imperial Casablanca 33 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Tânger (LIS - TNG) 31 €+
• Voo Porto - Agadir (OPO - AGA) 32 €+
• Voo Porto - Marraquexe (OPO - RAK) 38 €+
• Acqua Maris Balaia - Hotel Apartamento 32 €+
• Hotel Apartamento Paraíso de Albufeira 40 €+
• Janelas do Mar Apartamentos Turisticos 42 €+
• Voo Porto - Faro (OPO - FAO) 31 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Faro (LIS - FAO) 67 €+
• Voo Ponta Delgada - Faro (PDL - FAO) 141 €+
• 5 Bicas 35 €+
• Baga de Sal Wine Guesthouse 41 €+
• Patio79 Aveiro 42 €+
• Voo Faro - Porto (FAO - OPO) 31 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Porto (LIS - OPO) 61 €+
• Voo Funchal - Porto (FNC - OPO) 88 €+
• Supernova - Hostel 27 €+
• Monte Carlo Love Porto 39 €+
• ibis Porto São João 58 €+
• Hotel Star Inn 58 €+
• Voo Ponta Delgada - Porto (PDL - OPO) 92 €+

Nova Iorque

• Hi New York City Hostel 52 €+
• Central Park West Hostel 83 €+
• West Side Ymca 101 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Nova Iorque (LIS - JFK) 372 €+
• Voo Lisboa - New Windsor (LIS - SWF) 382 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Nova Iorque (LIS - LGA) 386 €+
• C&h Aravaca Garden 37 €+
• Toc Hostel Madrid 41 €+
• Vertice Roomspace Madrid 63 €+
• Voo Faro - Madrid (FAO - MAD) 31 €+
• Voo Porto - Madrid (OPO - MAD) 34 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Madrid (LIS - MAD) 39 €+
• Happy Village 49 €+
• Colony Hotel 61 €+
• Hostel Trastevere 62 €+
• Generator Rome 67 €+
• Degli Imperatori 68 €+
• The Romehello 69 €+
• Occidental Aran Park 74 €+
• Ibis Roma Fiera 79 €+
• Hotel Roma Sud 80 €+
• Hotel Philia 81 €+
• Gialel B&b 93 €+
• Hotel Cristoforo Colombo 94 €+
• Voo Porto - Roma (OPO - FCO) 63 €+
• Voo Funchal - Roma (FNC - FCO) 76 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Roma (LIS - FCO) 80 €+
• Voo Porto - Roma (OPO - CIA) 88 €+
• Voo Faro - Roma (FAO - FCO) 153 €+
• Voo Lajes - Roma (TER - FCO) 198 €+
• Voo Ilha do Pico - Roma (PIX - FCO) 372 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Roma (LIS - CIA) 465 €+
• Voo Funchal - Roma (FNC - CIA) 744 €+
• Voo Faro - Roma (FAO - CIA) 1 361 €+

Banguecoque

• Asia Hotel Bangkok 31 €+
• Ambassador Bangkok Hotel 32 €+
• Prince Palace Hotel 32 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Banguecoque (LIS - BKK) 545 €+
• Voo Porto - Banguecoque (OPO - BKK) 682 €+
• Voo Faro - Banguecoque (FAO - BKK) 766 €+
• Azores Youth Hostels - São Miguel 16 €+
• Out Of The Blue 29 €+
• A Casa Sousa 35 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Ponta Delgada (LIS - PDL) 36 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Nova Deli (LIS - DEL) 535 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Malé (LIS - MLE) 553 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Mumbai (LIS - BOM) 557 €+
• Mirachoro Praia da Rocha 36 €+
• Portimão Center Hotel 40 €+
• Clube Vilarosa 41 €+
• St Christopher's Inns The Canal Hostel 36 €+
• Generator Paris 40 €+
• Hotelf1 Paris Saint Ouen Marché Aux Puces 47 €+
• Le Regent Montmartre by Hiphophostels 48 €+
• Auberge Internationale Des Jeunes 57 €+
• hotelF1 Paris Porte de Châtillon 58 €+
• ibis budget Paris Porte de Montmartre 58 €+
• Voo Faro - Paris (FAO - BVA) 37 €+
• Voo Porto - Paris (OPO - ORY) 56 €+
• Voo Porto - Paris (OPO - BVA) 56 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Paris (LIS - ORY) 60 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Paris (LIS - BVA) 60 €+
• Voo Porto - Châlons-en-Champagne (OPO - XCR) 60 €+
• Voo Funchal - Paris (FNC - BVA) 73 €+
• The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel 46 €+
• Clinknoord Hostel 48 €+
• Generator Amsterdam 49 €+
• Tourist Inn Budget Hotel - Hostel 58 €+
• The Flying Pig Downtown Youth Hostel 58 €+
• New West Inn Amsterdam 81 €+
• Amsterdam Teleport Hotel 93 €+
• Volkshotel 98 €+
• Xo Hotels Park West 101 €+
• Xo Hotels Blue Tower 108 €+
• Best Western Amsterdam 110 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Amesterdão (LIS - AMS) 115 €+
• Voo Faro - Amesterdão (FAO - AMS) 128 €+
• Voo Porto - Amesterdão (OPO - AMS) 128 €+
• Voo Ponta Delgada - Amesterdão (PDL - AMS) 277 €+
• Voo Funchal - Amesterdão (FNC - AMS) 315 €+

Ponta Delgada

• Atlantic Home Azores 41 €+
• Residencial Alcides 49 €+
• Hotel Vip Executive Azores 55 €+
• Hotel Sete Cidades 60 €+
• Voo Porto - Ponta Delgada (OPO - PDL) 78 €+
• Voo Vila do Porto - Ponta Delgada (SMA - PDL) 83 €+
• Voo Lajes - Ponta Delgada (TER - PDL) 93 €+
• Voo Ilha do Pico - Ponta Delgada (PIX - PDL) 110 €+
• Voo Horta - Ponta Delgada (HOR - PDL) 114 €+
• Voo Funchal - Ponta Delgada (FNC - PDL) 120 €+

Los Angeles

• Freehand Los Angeles 36 €+
• City Center Hotel 85 €+
• Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles International Airport 99 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Los Angeles (LIS - LAX) 550 €+
• Voo Faro - Los Angeles (FAO - LAX) 556 €+
• Voo Porto - Los Angeles (OPO - LAX) 742 €+

Rio de Janeiro

• Hotel Atlântico Avenida 17 €+
• Hotel Atlantico Business Centro 33 €+
• Hotel Atlantico Prime 33 €+
• Voo Porto - Rio de Janeiro (OPO - GIG) 600 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Rio de Janeiro (LIS - GIG) 714 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Rio de Janeiro (LIS - SDU) 782 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Ponta Delgada (LIS - PDL) 31 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Madrid (LIS - MAD) 40 €+
• Sleep At Phuket Sha Plus 12 €+
• Acca Patong 13 €+
• Grand Supicha City Hotel (Sha Plus+) 25 €+
• Voo Lisboa - Phuket (LIS - HKT) 589 €+
• Le Penguin Hostel 24 €+
• Casa d'Alagoa - Faro Hostel 34 €+
• Hospedaria São Filipe 48 €+
• Voo Ponta Delgada - Faro (PDL - FAO) 142 €+

Perguntas frequentes acerca da KAYAK

There's a new option for a river cruise through Portugal's wine country

Editor's Note

Avalon Waterways is the latest river cruise line to launch sailings on the Douro.

The Denver-based brand on Thursday unveiled its first vessel on the vineyard-lined river in Portugal, which has been one of river cruising's fastest-growing destinations in recent years.

Dubbed Avalon Alegria, the 102-passenger ship will sail seven-night voyages on the Douro out of Porto, Portugal, starting next week.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Stops on the voyages will include the river towns of Regua, Pinhao and Pocinho, which serve as gateways for visits to the many wineries and historic sites that line the Douro River Valley.

Avalon executives unveiled Avalon Alegria on Thursday during a naming ceremony along the waterfront of Pinhao that included an appearance by former "Saturday Night Live" comedienne Cheri Oteri.

Oteri served as godmother of the vessel during the ceremony.

"It's like my wedding day. I've never been so honored and flattered," Oteri told nearly 100 invited guests at the start of the ceremony after being escorted into the event on the arm of an Avalon executive.

Sticking with the wedding analogy, the Primetime Emmy Award-nominated funny woman joked that "tonight, if the ship's a-rockin', don't come a-knockin'."

Later in the ceremony, Oteri cut a white ribbon that sent a bottle of sparkling Portuguese Cava smashing against Avalon Alegria's hull.

Avalon tapped Oteri to christen Avalon Alegria because of her work bringing happiness and joy into the world as a comedienne and actress, Avalon President Pam Hoffee said at the event.

"Alegria" means "happiness" in Portuguese, Hoffee noted.

"When we named our ship happiness ... we couldn't have thought of a better godmother than Cheri Oteri," Hoffee said.

The ceremony mostly took place inside the ship's main lounge due to pouring rain outside. It was followed by a reception and gala dinner on board.

Built at a shipyard in Portugal, Avalon Alegria is part of Avalon's popular Suite Class of ships, which began debuting in 2011 and features a large number of extra-wide cabins called Panorama Suites.

Related: Why I still think Avalon Waterways has the best cabins in river cruising

Avalon Alegria has 37 Panorama Suites, which offer 200 square feet of living space. That's about 30% more square footage than the standard river ship cabin.

Avalon has long touted the Panorama Suites as a key difference between its vessels and those of other river lines in Europe that cater to North Americans. The suites make up nearly 80% of the cabins on Avalon's Suite Class ships and have several unusual features. Among them: floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic windows that stretch 11 feet wide and open up 7 feet wide.

Founded in 2004, 20-year-old Avalon is known for a young fleet of ships with a stylish, contemporary design, and Avalon Alegria is no exception. Public areas feature modern furniture, clean lines and lots of glass walls that flood the spaces with light.

Among the standout features of Avalon Alegria is the line's first decktop pool.

Avalon Alegria is notably smaller than the typical Avalon ship, as it was designed specifically to fit into the locks and under the bridges that line the Douro River.

Like other river cruise lines that cater to North Americans, including AmaWaterways, Uniworld River Cruises and Viking, Avalon has grown notably over the past two decades. With the addition of Avalon Alegria, it now has 15 ships in Europe. It also operates one ship in Asia on the Mekong River.

Attendees at Thursday's unveiling included leaders of some of North America's biggest travel agency groups, local officials, the ship's designers and builders, and Avalon executives.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin