Traveling to Portugal

Portugal stole my heart on this week-long adventure. With a population of around 10 million, this Atlantic-facing nation packs incredible diversity into a relatively small territory - from the historic streets of Lisbon to the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve coast.

Fun fact: Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe, with borders largely unchanged since 1297!

What I Experienced

Exploring Portugal during October turned out to be perfect timing - the summer crowds had thinned, but the weather remained warm and pleasant. Lisbon's iconic trams, colorful tiles (azulejos), and hilly neighborhoods made every walk feel like a discovery.

The drone captured Portugal's dramatic coastline from above. Along the Algarve, golden limestone cliffs rise from the Atlantic, sculpted by millennia of waves into arches, sea stacks, and hidden coves. At sunset, the cliffs glow amber against the deep blue ocean - some of the most photogenic coastal scenery in Europe.

Porto, the country's second city, impressed me with its riverside charm and the famous port wine cellars across the Douro. The contrast between the historic Ribeira district and the modern architecture made for an interesting exploration.

Practical Notes

• October offers great weather with fewer tourists than summer
• The country is very affordable by Western European standards
• Public transport is excellent, especially the trains between major cities
• Pastéis de nata (custard tarts) are a must - eat them warm!
• Portuguese people are incredibly welcoming and many speak English

These high-resolution aerial panoramas of Portugal are available for purchase with commercial license - ideal for coastal travel marketing, Atlantic destination content, or dramatic cliff wall art.