Best Hotels In Paris: Understanding How They Are Supporting The City’s Tourism Today

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

Funchal, the capital of Madeira Portugal was recently in the news for hosting the European Aquatics Artistic Swimming Championships from 2nd to 5th June in 2025.  However, Madeira, the Atlantic gem, has always been in focus as the home to a unique culture, history, and a beautiful landscape. Furthermore, it is home to the oldest Laurisilva Forests.  Also, despite being a popular tourism attraction, Madeira Portugal has been able to retain its pristine charm. This archipelago has the main island of Madeira and Porto Santo. These two are inhabited islands of the region.  Furthermore, the other two smaller islands, Selvagens and Desertas, are uninhabited. Moreover, Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is the hometown of soccer giant Cristiano Ronaldo. It can’t be bigger and better than this.  So, as you can see, Madeira is the focus of this Tour and Travel Blog. The key areas we will be talking about are:Where Is Madeira Portugal? Is Madeira Part Of Portugal? How To Get To Madeira Portugal?What To Do In Madeira Portugal?1. Exploring The Iconic Levada Trails: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure 2. Feel The Ancient Connection In The Laurisilva Forest: A Precious Experience In Nature3. Enjoy The Thrill Of Walking On The Cabo Girão Skywalk4. Relax In Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools5. Wander Through Funchal’s Mercado Dos Lavradores And Buy Fresh Produce6. Tour Madeira’s Wine Cellars: A Unique Cultural Experience 7. Take A Cable Car To Monte For A Wonderful View Of The Funchal Coastline8. Go Whale Watching Or Dolphin Spotting: How About Some Marine Fun?9. A Food Tour In Madeira: This Is Something You Don’t Want To Miss10. Know About The Rural Heritage Of Madeira At The Town of SantanaWhere To Stay In Madeira Portugal? Madeira Wine Route: The Crown Jewel Of Tourism In Madeira Portugal 1. Between São Vicente And Seixal2. Estreito De Câmara De Lobos3. Experimental Viticulture Station4. Quinta De Santa Luzia5. Fajã Do Barro Viewpoint6. GinjasMadeira Portugal: Some Fun Facts That Truly Make This Atlantic Gem Special 1. The Largest Fireworks Displays In Madeira2. Flower Festival In Madeira Madeira, Portugal: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Where Is Madeira Portugal? Is Madeira Part Of Portugal?  Madeira, Portugal, is located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is an autonomous region of Portugal and a part of the Macaronesia region.  This archipelago has the Canary Islands to the South and Morocco to the east. Furthermore, despite being a part of a European country, it is closer to Africa (450 km) than the mainland of Europe (1000 km). It is also the outermost region of the European Union.  Moreover, you can reach this beautiful archipelago from Lisbon by air in 90 minutes.  How To Get To Madeira Portugal? The Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) in Funchal is the main access point to Madeira Portugal. It is well connected to major Portuguese cities such as Lisbon and Porto, and other European countries.  Furthermore, you can cruise to the Port of Funchal, the port city of Madeira, for a touch of luxury.  Once you reach Madeira, enjoy a ride in the local buses, rented cars, and cable cars to explore like a local.  What To Do In Madeira Portugal? Clichéd, it may sound! But truly, Madeira has something for every type of traveler. You can relax at the Madeira beaches, enjoy hiking, explore the charming towns, and soak in its unique culture.  Here are some unique things to do in this picturesque paradise.  1. Exploring The Iconic Levada Trails: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure  It is unique when ancient irrigation trails double as the most scenic hiking trails. Yes, I am talking about the “Levadas” network of trails.  Levada do Caldeirão Verde and Levada dos 25 Fontes are the two most popular trails in this route. Overall, the 2000-kilometer scenic route of Levada trails consists of waterfalls, greenery, and mountain peaks.  2. Feel The Ancient Connection In The Laurisilva Forest: A Precious Experience In Nature You can hike through the Laurisilva Forest and feel ancient times speaking to you. The trails here are suitable for hikers of all skill levels.  Also, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to diverse flora and fauna. So, with some patience, you will be able to spot wildlife here.  3. Enjoy The Thrill Of Walking On The Cabo Girão Skywalk Cabo Girão in Madeira is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The Cabo Girão Skywalk is located at a height of 580 meters, and as you walk through this transparent glass platform, you can see the stunning coastline of Madeira.  4. Relax In Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools Madeira is famous for its volcanic rock formations, and nowhere is this more evident than in Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.  These pools are filled with crystal-clear seawater and surrounded by dramatic black lava rocks. It’s the perfect spot to relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. 5. Wander Through Funchal’s Mercado Dos Lavradores And Buy Fresh Produce Funchal’s Mercado dos Lavradores, or the Farmers’ Market, is a place of bustling energy with exotic fruits, fresh produce, local cheese, and Madeira wine.  Don’t forget to buy specialties such as custard apples and passion fruits.  6. Tour Madeira’s Wine Cellars: A Unique Cultural Experience  Don’t miss a visit to the Madeira wine cellars and see the process of making fortified wine. You can even taste the best ones brewed and be a part of the guided tours conducted by some cellars.  7. Take A Cable Car To Monte For A Wonderful View Of The Funchal Coastline You can go for a cable car ride from the City Center to the town of Monte. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy a beautiful view of Funchal and the surrounding coastline.  The Monte Palace and Church of Our Lady of Monte are two notable attractions on this route.  8. Go Whale Watching Or Dolphin Spotting: How About Some Marine Fun? Madeira is one of the best places in Europe for marine wildlife spotting. April to October is the best time for these marine wildlife spotting tours.  Funchal is the main hub of these tours, and you can spot the adorable animals on a catamaran trip, sailing trips, and fast boats.  9. A Food Tour In Madeira: This Is Something You Don’t Want To Miss The local food of Madeira stands out with the use of exotic fruits, fresh seafood, and rich flavors. Try grilled meat on skewers or Espetada, salted cod or Bacalhau, and Madeiran flatbread such as Bolo do Caco.  Like Moroccan food, food in Madeira also has bread as a staple. Moreover, Madeira Cake is something that gives you a taste of the famous Madeira wine. It’s a dessert.  10. Know About The Rural Heritage Of Madeira At The Town of Santana The rural areas in Madeira still follow a lifestyle that speaks of the island’s history. The town of Santana is especially a place that preserves the rural heritage of the island at its best.  The houses here are triangular and they have thatched roofs. They are also colorfully painted.  Where To Stay In Madeira Portugal?  The best place to stay in Madeira Portugal depends on the kind of experience you want. Have a look at the table below to decide where to stay in Madeira.  Places to Stay in MadeiraExperience You Will Get Funchal• Vibrant Nightlife• Bustling Market• Cultural Exploration in the Historic Old TownPonta do Sol• Resort Experience• Beaches And Coastline• Ideal for RelaxationMachico• Local Experience• Peaceful and Ideal for Family Vacations• Conveniently Located for the Island ExplorationSão Vicente• Rural Experience• Traveling through the Central TunnelsSeixal• Natural Setting• Picturesque View of the North Coast Madeira Wine Route: The Crown Jewel Of Tourism In Madeira Portugal  The Wine Festival in Madeira in August-September is the pride of the local ethnographic and cultural identity. You never know when a wine cellar or brewer in rural Madeira will present you with a century-old elixir.  Nevertheless, irrespective of the time of your visit, you can visit the following places for a delightful wine tour in Madeira. 1. Between São Vicente And Seixal It is an iconic route filled with vine trails by the sea. So, it is ideal for a mixed experience of a coastal getaway and wine tourism.  2. Estreito De Câmara De Lobos Estreito de Câmara de Lobos covers an area starting from the coast to Jardim da Serra, which is at a height of 600 meters.  It is the largest vineyard area in Madeira.  3. Experimental Viticulture Station Located in Arco de São Jorge, the Experimental Viticulture Station is the best location to learn about wine production and the heritage of Madeira wine.  It has a vine and a wine museum. 4. Quinta De Santa Luzia Quinta de Santa Luzia belongs to the Blandy family, who still follow the traditions of Madeiran farms.  They still produce some grape varieties, which were used in the Madeira Wine Company’s wines.  5. Fajã Do Barro Viewpoint This viewpoint in Porto Moniz will present a never-ending stretch of vineyards in front of you. Moreover, from here you will see the vineyards of Fajã de Manuel and how the Atlantic embraces the coastal landscape of Arrudal da Ribeira da Janela.  6. Ginjas Enjoy the most fascinating view of the São Vicente valley from Ginjas. Here, you will notice vineyards on both sides of the mountain.  Madeira Portugal: Some Fun Facts That Truly Make This Atlantic Gem Special  Madeira has one of the biggest fireworks displays in the world, and during the springtime, it hosts one of the most vibrant flower festivals.  1. The Largest Fireworks Displays In Madeira Madeira celebrates New Year’s Eve with great pomp. Also, it once held the Guinness World Record for hosting the biggest firework display.  It took place at Funchal.  2. Flower Festival In Madeira  With its mild climate and volcanic terrain, Madeira gets an abundance of flowers such as orchids, bougainvillea, Bird of Paradise, etc.  The local markets also gear up during this festival, and traditional performances by children and adults celebrate the Madeiran tradition.  Madeira, Portugal: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Madeira, Portugal.  1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira, Portugal? April to June is the best time to visit Madeira. Along with being the season of the iconic flower festival, it is also the ideal time for spotting whales and dolphins.  2. How Far Is Madeira From Lisbon? It takes around 90 minutes to reach Madeira from Lisbon. There is no road connectivity. However, you can take a luxury cruise ride to the port city of Funchal.  3. Is Maderira Cheap or Expensive? Madeira is a more budget-friendly destination compared to other European cities and countries. There are many budget-friendly hotels, and local food here is also affordable. However, car rentals and short-term vacation rentals here can be a little expensive. A package for a person for a Madeira trip for 3 nights and 4 days can be around $1000.  4. Which Is Better, the Azores Or Madeira?  Your choice between Madeira and the Azores will depend on the kind of experience you want. The Azores, with its dramatic volcanic landscape, is more ideal for outdoor adventures. From a protected marine sanctuary to the hot springs, it also shows a massive geological diversity. Madeira, on the other hand, despite being a dolphin and whale spotting hub, has a more relaxed vibe. It is great for wine tasting, urban experiences, and cultural exploration.  Read Also: Lisbon To Porto Distance: Different Ways To Travel, Accommodation Options, And More “Winter Is Coming!” Where Is Hot In October? Explore Places To Visit In Europe Lisbon to Algarve Distance: Know The Best Ways To Travel And More

BY  Barsha Sep 24, 2025

The Algarve region in Portugal is home to some of Europe's best beaches - especially if you love to swim and go on epic hikes!  It took us only three hours to reach Lisbon. I’ll suggest renting a car and driving to the Algarve because that is the only way you will be able to explore the beautiful coastline. Moreover, parking here is pretty convenient. As a result, exploring the best beaches in Portugal was the perfect road trip.  On that note, I’ve tried listing down the best beaches in Portugal. My parameters? Well, I’ve got quite a few - check them out before jumping down to my list of Portugal’s best beaches! Does the beach come with a long coastline and a great view?  Is the water good for swimming? What activities can you try?  How’s the sand? Is there a restaurant to dine at? Does the restaurant offer takeaway? How’s the parking? Can you rent umbrellas and chairs?  Is there anything unique or rare about the beach? Stay tuned. 13 Best Beaches In Portugal: Keeping my parameters, let’s check out the best beaches in Portugal: 1. Centeanes Beach/Praia Do Vale Centeanes: Before I visited Portugal's beaches, I had no idea about the seaweed phenomenon here. Some beaches are home to so much seaweed (called Saguaro Seaweed) that you will only find small pockets with open water for swimming.  In contrast, Praia Do Vale Centeanes is perhaps one of the only beaches I found in Algarve that was entirely free from seaweed - the only beach that welcomed us with clear water and golden sand.  Surprisingly, we stumbled upon this beautiful beach on the same day we visited the iconic Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. And the next day, we were back! While you are here, you can visit the O Stop Restaurant overlooking the golden sand for a perfect dinner by the beach. I remember we had ordered a bottle of wine and some fried fish on the side. Also, you will find parking easily behind this restaurant - and that is one more reason to definitely check this beach out.  How Much Will It Cost You? So, visiting the beach will not cost you anything. Also, parking is free here, so no expenses for that as well. However, if you go on boat tours, it usually starts from $25 - of course, the pricing varies depending on the duration and type of boat you opt for. Also, rentals on the beach come for affordable rates but vary a lot.  2. Praia Da Marinha: While my favorite beach is definitely Centeanes Beach in the Algarve region, there is no competition to the view you get from Praia Da Marinha. For me, it was one of the iconic spots for a breathless view.  And once you are here, you will know why this stunning view is so famous, making Praia Da Marinha one of the best beaches in Portugal - and the world (I’m not kidding)! Moreover, there is a huge parking lot right above the beach, making it one of the most convenient places to spend time. How Much Will It Cost You? Again, access to the beach comes for free. Plus, parking is free here, but it has limited spots (32 free spots when we went) and fills up very fast. Coming to costs, kayaking starts at $35, and boat tours start at $24. Moreover, private boat tours are somewhat expensive - it will cost you around $294. Of course, the rates vary depending on the duration and the type of tour. Additionally, if you want to go for the famous Seven Hanging Valleys hike, then it will cost you around $42.  3. Rafael Beach, Albufeira/Praia De São Rafael: This small and sandy beach is great for reading under an umbrella and a few chairs for a day - it’s a very short drive from the town of Albufeira. I stayed here for a day with my partner, and it was a beautiful day!  The best part? The cove has calm waters - perfect to swim in, and you can even hunt for pink seashells. Right above Rafael Beach, you will find Restaurante da Praia de São Rafael. I recommend going here for a full-blown meal if you get hungry - the restaurant overlooks the water and beach. I had ordered several Spritzes to go while I was here - it kept us hydrated and somewhat tipsy! Also, I loved how the parking lot is not very far from the beach.  How Much Will It Cost You? Access to the beach is free, like most beaches on the list. Also, parking is free, but there are only two free spots that fill up pretty fast. We had parked on the street for free when we were here, but this area also fills up very fast during peak season.  To explore hidden beaches and caves in this area, you can rent kayaks from Albufeira Surf SUP - single kayaks will cost you $18/hour, and double kayaks will cost you $36.  4. Pirate Beach/Praia Dos Paradinha: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Simon Bob (@simonbob_) Pirate Beach is pretty underrated - so much so that you will probably miss it out (now, you won’t!) Just beside the beautiful Praia São Rafael, you will find this underrated gem. I found the beach has rock formations that are super cool - in fact, these appeared to be very interactive.  Then, you will spot mazes created by rock towers in the sand and caves in the far side of the beach - the best part? You can walk through the mazes and caves.  While you are exploring the rock formations on Pirate Beach, don’t forget to pause for some time and look closely around you. You will come across an endless number of fossils and seashells embedded in the rocks. I also found a lush (albeit small) waterfall tucked away right behind the cliff.  How Much Will It Cost You? Access to the beach is free. But parking is not always free here, especially during peak tourist seasons. Since we stayed in Albufeira, this beach wasn’t that far - only 6.1 kilometers from the town. It took us 12 minutes to reach via Uber - we paid the Uber $33.  For an underrated beach, kayak tours for exploring caves were somewhat expensive, costing around $45 per adult. 5. Point Of Mercy/Ponta Do Piedade: Ponta Do Piedade is not really a beach - it’s more like a cove. But this place has such a beautiful view that it would be a crime not to write about it. Plus, it's not very far from Lagos, the center - only a few minutes, TBH.  I had a great time exploring this area - on a kayak with my partner! You can also opt for a paddleboard or a boat, since there are many tours available here. Also, you can consider going on grotto tours via boats running from the grotto’s center. I didn’t opt for this tour because the grotto was 200 steps away. I don’t mind going downstairs - but coming up? That is very exhausting. How Much Will It Cost You? Like most beaches on this list, access to Point of Mercy is free. However, if you want to explore the sea caves and grottos, you can go on boat tours. It will cost you between $24 and $30 for a 75-minute to 120-minute boat tour.  Also, if you go kayaking (like we did), then you will have to shell out a little bit more. Guided kayak tours here will cost you $47 for a two-hour tour.  6. Camilo Beach/Praia Do Camilo: While Praia Da Marinha has the best view (without any competition), Camilo Beach comes a close second when it comes to iconic views.  Naturally, thanks to the stunning views, you can expect the area to get crowded on busy days. In spite of the crowds, I could spend time with my partner relaxing and having a fantastic day.  You can go swimming or just lie on the soft sand. Also, I want to mention how we found the calmest water in Camilo Beach - the calmest in the Algarve region.  You will see that the beach has been divided into two different sections. On the left, you will see a cave - walk through it and you will find another cove. And trust me, this one is better than the other cover outside. Having said that, I was really annoyed with the 200 or so steps we had to take just to reach this beach - but in the end, the view made it worth the physical exhaustion.  How Much Will It Cost You? Access to the beach is free, and the parking is free as well, but then again, there are only limited free spots available. In case you want to avoid dealing with parking issues, you can choose to walk - it’s a 5 to 10-minute walk from Lagos.  While it might seem expensive, think about the amount of money you spend on recreational purposes at any given time.  For instance, I bought this percolator bong with my disposable income, and while it doesn’t serve me a purpose every day, it makes me happy on the days I use it. Similarly, you can look at travel money as something that might not add value to your life every day, but it is certainly worth every penny when you think about it. 7. Praia Do Carvoeiro, Carveiro: Carvoeiro is a small fishing village that we had visited primarily because I am obsessed with fish (sorry, I love to eat fish and see how fish farming works)! At the heart of this fishing village, we found the picturesque beach of Praia Do Carvoeiro. Surrounded by whitewashed houses and golden limestone cliffs, Praia Do Carvoeiro offers a postcard-like setting. This sandy beach is beautiful and is known for boat tours to the well-known Benagil Cave. Apart from this beach, Carveiro is a charming village - so many cafés, restaurants, and shops. Also, definitely stop by the coastline and check out the Carvoeiro Boardwalk for the best views. How Much Will It Cost You? Access to the beach is obviously free. For rentals like umbrellas and sunbeds, it will cost you $36 for two. During peak summer months, costs for rentals can go up to $40.  Also, boat tours start at $42 - you can go for a two-hour-long Benagil & Marinha tour, or you can also go for the Benagil Long Boat tour. 8. Praia De Benagil: Only a while ago, I had mentioned the world-famous Benagil Cave - one of the most famous sea caves in the world.  The cave is home to natural sunlight and a stunning dome-shaped roof - you can access the cave by kayak, paddleboard, or boat. This time, we decided to go on a boat tour, ditching kayaking in the process.  And you cannot miss out on this spot - while you are here, you should definitely visit Benagil village.  Close to this village, we found a small beach, Praia De Benagil, protected from the world and tucked away behind towering cliffs. You can easily access the beach by car - plus, you will find nearby parking as well. How Much Will It Cost You? You can access this beach for free. However, to visit the popular Benagil Cave from this beach, you can opt for guided boat tours - it will cost you between $24 and $59. Moreover, you can rent equipment (SUP/kayak) from here - it will cost you $48. Also, guided kayak tours are available, ranging from $41 to $59 for an adult.  9. Praia Do Peneco, Albufeira Old Town: Algarve’s top party destination is hands down Albufeira. So, if you are planning a night of debauchery and staying out late, then you have to spend a weekend in Albufeira!  While we were here, we were super lucky - out of the two days I spent in this town with my boyfriend, I stumbled upon a crazy music festival on the beach! The next day, we visited the old town and parked outside just so that we could walk around.  While you are here, definitely check out Café Mané for some delicious breakfast and great coffee. I will also recommend Alfredo's if you love Italian food - this diner is super cozy and serves delicious food.  How Much Will It Cost You? The beach has free access, so there’s no cost to enter and access the beach. Parking is not free, and rates tend to vary during busy seasons. We had taken a taxi from Albufeira, and it cost us $10, which makes this commute alternative fast and convenient. 10. Falesia Beach/Praia Da Falesia: I loved Falesia - it was the Algarve’s longest beach with an uninterrupted coastline that goes for miles. We rented an umbrella (you can bring your own umbrella too) and spent time being lazy on the sand. Also, the beach is home to deep orange and red cliffs - something we had not seen before in this region. Moreover, if you get hungry, then you can check out the restaurant perched above the cliff - you can sit here for a meal or get some drinks and snacks on the go.  How Much Will It Cost You? Access to the beach is free. Of course, you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds at different spots on the beach, especially close to Vilamoura - this place is home to several fun beach clubs.  Also, you can go on various tours from this beach. The cave and dolphin tours will cost you somewhere between $49 and $55. Then, luxury boat tours will cost you $61, while paddleboarding is priced between $38 and $43. 11. Carvalho Beach/Praia Do Carvalho: Carvalho is a cozy, small cove, hidden between cliffs. I’ll tell you why it's one of the best beaches in Portugal. You can’t access this beach with a vehicle - you have to walk down stairs that have been carved into the stone, literally through a tiny cave.  Unlike most people who love lying under the sun, I am not a big fan of getting tanned - and this is precisely why I loved this beach so much. Most parts of the beach are free from the sun, but for people who like lying in the sun, there is a big rock peninsula.  However, we had ordered food from O Carcaca Truck located above the beach - it was terrible. So, avoid this food truck when you are here. How Much Will It Cost You? There’s no entry fee for entering Praia Do Carvalho - yep, you can access the beach for free. The problem is dealing with parking - parking is usually free with limited spots, but during peak months, you have to pay to park your car.  12. Burgao Beach/Praia Do Burgao: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Portugal (@visitportugal) The Algarve is home to another charming fishing village, Burgau. We fell in love with the blue-accented, white-washed buildings - it was like stepping into a movie. Moreover, my boyfriend and I are not fans of crowds, and Burgao was exactly that - free from crowds! The village and the nearby beach have a tranquil, calm vibe. Also, there are so many cute cafes and restaurants.  If you have time, spend time at Love Burgau, a lovely bar and cafe - you have to eat their specialty sourdough pizza. It was absolutely delicious - the best pizza I have had in months! How Much Will It Cost You? Access to the beach is free. However, the beachside parking has limited spots - so, arrive early if you want to avoid paying for parking.  Once the beachside parking fills up, people have to park in the surrounding areas and pay rates that vary locally regularly. We spent time relaxing in the comforting atmosphere - the beach’s natural beauty made us too lazy to explore much. 13. Praia Da Arrifana, Aljezur: The West Algarve is somewhat different from the rest of the region - the beaches certainly have a different vibe. Moreover, the area is actually even known as the California of Europe - and rightly so.  We drove to the western Algarve directly from Lisbon - and it certainly felt like a true Californian beach town! The crispy air, the agave, the cactus, the salty small - all felt like Southern California. Once we reached, we decided to stay in Aljezur, a town popular for its surfing culture and rugged beauty.  The largest beach near this town is Praia da Arrifana - and it’s a must-visit! Also, if you visit the beach, don’t forget to check out Cal Arrifana Restaurant. We really liked the food at this laid-back restaurant. Moreover, we visited a few places in Aljezur (because we love eating) - and our favorite was a yummy dinner at Tamrab Thai. How Much Will It Cost You? Again, like all beaches on this list, access to this gorgeous place is free, but parking here is not free - the rates vary locally. However, we didn’t take our car - we had taken a taxi, instead. Yep, taxis will cost you between $16 and $22, depending on your location in the Aljezur area. Also, public buses and shuttles are your other commute alternatives. Are Beaches In Portugal Safe? The best beaches in Portugal are safe, with available lifeguards during peak months and warning flags; safety is not an issue on these beaches. Having said that, it is vital to understand that your safety is always in your hands - you should be responsible, thanks to unpredictable dangers such as rip currents, falling rocks, jellyfish stings, and Atlantic currents.  On this note, remember to follow warning flags and local advice, since drowning incidents are not uncommon here. Also, the authorities can fine you for not following the rules. Frequently Asked Questions: Check out the most frequently asked questions about the best beaches in Portugal: 1. Which Part Of Portugal Has The Best Beaches? Portugal is home to some of the world’s best beaches. So, if you are looking for beautiful, sandy beaches in this country, then you have to explore the Algarve region. I was here for a whole month exploring the popular and underrated beaches - and the Atlantic has never looked more beautiful.  2. Where Is The Warmest Beach Water In Portugal? Praia da Barreta is the beach with the warmest water in Portugal. Yep! Located in Faro’s Deserta Island, this beach experiences average temperatures that range between 20°C and 24°C. While most beaches in the Algarve region buzz with crowds and activity, Praia da Barreta practically remains a deserted beach, albeit a tranquil one.  3. Are There Any Sandy Beaches In Portugal? Yes. Portugal is home to several long and sandy beaches, perfect for families. I’ve listed several beaches in my blog that have endless sand areas like Praia Do Vale Centeanes, Rafael Beach, and Praia Da Falesia.  4. What Is The Most Photographed Beach In Portugal? Praia da Marinha is the most photographed beach in Portugal - at least as per my Instagram feed and Google’s AI Overview. And once I reached here, I realized why - it is one of the most iconic beaches in Portugal, thanks to its golden sand, miles of coastline, and breathtaking view.  5. What Is The Most Beautiful Beach Town In Portugal? The most beautiful beach towns in Portugal are Albufeira, Lagos, and Tavira in the Algarve region. Also, you will find some beautiful and charming beach towns near Lisbon and the central coast, such as Sesimbra, Cascais, and Ericeira. Read Also: Beaches In Spain: Playing Important Roles In Leisure And Beach Tourism In The Country 9 of the Best Beaches in Perth that You Must Visit Uluwatu Beach: The Prettiest Beach In Bali

BY  Sibashree Nov 25, 2025

My trip to Kotor, Montenegro, is filled with memories of the cats, who are the guardians of the city, and the smell of dew-drenched leaves as I went for a sunrise hike.  Also, along with being a hidden gem in the sustainable tourism scenario after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), it has also emerged as the ultimate budget-friendly location of Montenegro.  In this blog, I will discuss a 3-day travel itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro, including hidden gems and essential tips. Why Visit Kotor, Montenegro? The International Trade Administration has confirmed that the tourism sector in Montenegro contributes 30% to the country’s GDP. In addition, ReportLinker predicts that the number of visitors to Montenegro will reach 3.4 million by 2028.  The same report anticipates that the tourism industry will reach a revenue of $95 million by 2028.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, With Great Food, Community, Beauty, And Historical Charm Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the crown jewel of tourism in Montenegro. The deep bay waters here resemble the Nordic fjords. On the other hand, the coastal cliffs create the perfect backdrop for the city, exuding a medieval charm.  Now, Kotor and Montenegro as a country are planning to diversify their tourism portfolio, with a greater focus on cultural, ecotourism, and rural tourism.  In addition, the budget-friendly hostels in Kotor are more than cheap accommodations. They are the base for developing a backpackers' community.  Many of these hostels help you join pub crawls, hikes, local events, and more. As a result, Kotor, Montenegro, has become a favorite among backpackers, budget travelers, and solo travelers.  In addition, the rugged beauty of the Dinaric Alps meets the calmness of the Adriatic Sea in Kotor, Montenegro. So, every nook of Kotor is ideal for a photo-op.  Moreover, for me, exploring the maze of medieval lanes and the Venetian architecture was like time travel. Also, St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, stands as the eternal witness of human history in Kotor.  Furthermore, the family-run taverns here serve the most delicious yet simple food at an affordable price. Try the savory pastries! What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor Montenegro? July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor, Montenegro. However, if you want to travel to Kotor, Montenegro, on a budget, you need to plan a trip between November and February.  You will enjoy watersports and skiing in these months, and accommodations are available at a much more affordable price.  How To Get To Kotor & Move Around On A Budget? The Tivat Airport, 7 km away, is the gateway for Kotor to the rest of the world. You can travel this 7 km distance by road.  Other nearby airports to Kotor, Montenegro, are Dubrovnik Airport (Croatia, 44 km) and Podgorica Airport (40 km). In addition, Podgorica and Kotor get regular flights from countries such as Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia.  Once you reach Kotor, you can explore the city and its surroundings in a boat. Don’t miss Perast on the route, as this village has fewer than 300 people, and it stands out with amazing scenic beauty.  Taxis, shuttles, and car rentals are other options if you want to explore Kotor by road. 3-Day Budget Itinerary For Kotor, Montenegro Here is a brief 3-day budget itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro. I will first share the days and activities, and then discuss why these attractions are special.  DaysActivitiesDay 1 - Exploring Kotor Old Town• Wandering through cobblestone streets.• Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral.• Climbing the City Walls for panoramic viewsInsider Tip: Visit the City Walls early for a discounted entry. Day 2 - Visiting Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks• Taking a local bus to Perast.• Boat ride to the iconic island church.• Enjoying budget-friendly seafood at a local konoba.Day 3 - Visiting Lovćen National Park & Njeguši Village• Hiking or taking a shared taxi to Lovćen.• Visiting Njeguši for a traditional prosciutto and cheese tasting. 1. Exploring Kotor Old Town And City Walls Here are some interesting and unknown facts about Kotor Old Town and City Walls.  The Old Town's fortification system stretches 4.5 km. So, it is one of the longest fortification systems in Europe. It only follows the Great Wall of China.  You have to climb 1350 steps to reach the San Giovanni Fortress. The entry fee is €8. However, you can also take the secret route via the old trade path outside the northern gate. It’s free.  The Sea Gate Inscription above the main gate is a quote from Tito: “We don’t want others’, we don’t give our own”, commemorating liberation from Nazi occupation in 1944. Furthermore, the Pillar of Shame, hidden in a square, reminds us of a brutal activity in the city in the past. Criminals were tied to this pillar, and everyone used to throw stones and rotten food at them as a mark of punishment.  2. Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral Built in 1166, the St. Tryphon Cathedral is even older than the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is one of the most ancient cathedrals on the Adriatic Coast. The cathedral has a 14th-century ciborium, which depicts the life of St. Tryphon. It is made of a red stone from Đurići. The goldsmiths of Kotor made the golden altarpiece of the cathedral in the 15th century. It has the figures of Christ, Virgin Mary, and 16 saints.  A devastating earthquake struck Kotor in 1667. Then, the bell tower of the cathedral fell, and it could not be rebuilt fully. Thus, the current cathedral structure is shorter by 2 meters than the original one.  In 2009, the St. Tryphon Cathedral got the status of a Papal Basilica. It is a rare honor for churches in the Balkan region. 3. Visiting Perast The 2-km-long main street of Perast was once a cultural hub during the days of the Venetian Republic.  The bell tower of St. Nicholas Church was built at a cost of 50000 Ducats in the 18th century. It was an unbelievable amount in that era.  Perast once stood as a reflection of the wealth in the Venetian Era. It had 16 palaces and 19 churches.  4. Knowing Our Lady Of The Rocks Rocks have piled up for centuries, and those rocks, along with sinking ships, have formed Our Lady of the Rocks, the only artificial island in the Adriatic Region.  The Fašinada festival is a popular ritual here, with its history dating back to 1452. It is a tradition to celebrate the island's foundation. Every 22nd July, the people of the island gather in decorated boats and they throw stones into the sea, as a symbolic exercise.  Furthermore, the Catholic church here has a tapestry made by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović. It was made using human hair, and Jacinta Kunić-Mijović made this tapestry while waiting 25 years for her fiancé to return from the sea.  The church also has the Death of the Virgin. It is a masterpiece by Tripo Kokolja. In total, the church has 68 paintings from Tripo Kokolja. 5. Visiting Lovćen National Park The Njegoš Mausoleum at Jezerski Vrh is one of the main attractions of the Lovćen National Park. Located at an altitude of above 1,660 meters, it is allegedly the highest mausoleum in the world.  200,000 Gilded tiles cover the dome of the mausoleum, and 13-ton granite statues of Montenegrin women guard the entrance of the national park.  Once you climb 461 steps and reach the top of the Mausoleum, you will enjoy panoramic views stretching toward Italy.  6. Exploring Njeguši Village It is the cradle of the royal Petrović-Njegoš dynasty of Montenegro. This family ruled over Montenegro from 1696 to 1918. Furthermore, it has the birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš and many other 19th-century buildings. The birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš is now a museum housing the first edition of his poem, Mountain Wreath, and original furniture. How Much Does A 3-day Trip To Kotor Cost On A Budget? Here is a detailed breakdown of the budget for a 3-day trip to Kotor, Montenegro.  CategoryBudget Cost (EUR)DetailsAccommodation (Hostel)€15–€25 per night, meaning €45–€75 for 3 nightsHostel prices are even lower from November to FebruaryLocal Transportation€6–€12 total• Local buses (€1–2 per ride). • Short taxi/shared rides within the bay (€3–5). • Free walking inside Old Town.Airport Transfers€8–€15 each way, meaning €16-€30• Airport transfer from Tivat is the cheapest.• From Dubrovnik/Podgorica, it will be at least €20-€35. Food (Budget Travelers)€15-€25 per day. So, it will be €45 to €75 in total. Choose Konobas & bakeries: • Pastries (€1–2), • Seafood Meals (€7–10)• Wine/Beer (€2–3)Activities and Entry Fees€20–€35 total• City Walls (€8, discounted early)• St. Tryphon Cathedral (€3)• Perast boat (€5–10) • Lovćen shared taxi/hike (€5–10)Day Trip to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks€7–€12• Bus to Perast (€1–2), boat (€5–10)Lovćen National Park Day TripFree–€10• Free if hiking; €5–10 for shared taxi. • Mausoleum entry ~€5.Miscellaneous (water, snacks, souvenirs)€10–€20• Refillable water recommendedCollect small souvenirs €3–5.Total Estimated Budget for 3 days €139–€239• This is a cost breakdown for budget travelers. However, the budget for mid-range and luxury travelers will be different.  Day Trips & Hidden Gems Near Kotor Gornji Stoliv: It is a quiet coastal village. Vrmac Ridge: You will enjoy this scenic hike, and it is less crowded.  Church of Our Lady of Health: This chapel has a serene ambiance, and because of its location on a hilltop, it is often overlooked by tourists.  Vrmac Ridge: It is famous for the WWII bunkers, and it offers a beautiful panoramic view.  Blue Cave: It is a natural wonder of Kotor, Montenegro, and this natural sea cave has the most beautiful sapphire light and glow. You can reach the cave only by boat.  Secret Wine Bars: These secret wine bars are in the alleys of the Old Town. These places serve the best rakija and Montenegrin wines. Final Tips For Your Montenegro Getaway Kotor, Montenegro, gets busy in the summer season. Furthermore, early mornings are the busiest with the cruises docking in heavy numbers.  Also, there are some tips about the weather and travel you need to keep in mind.  Carry offline maps, as network connections may not always work.  Keep cash and small coins ready, as card transactions may not be accepted in local shops.  You must start hiking the steep route of the San Giovanni Fortress early in the morning to avoid the heat.  Use local buses for transportation, as they cost only €1–2 per ride.  Evenings are cool even in the summer season. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.  Dress modestly in churches, avoid loud behavior in Old Town squares, and learn basic Montenegrin greetings like “Hvala.” meaning Thank you. Choose konobas or local taverns for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are way affordable than the posh restaurants in the Old Square.  Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary.  1. Is Kotor, Montenegro, Worth Visiting For 3 Days? Yes, three days are perfect to explore Kotor Old Town, Perast, Lovćen National Park, and enjoy hidden gems without rushing.The budget for your three-day travel in Kotor will be around €139–€239, and Kotor is safe for solo travelers if you follow the basic travel precautions.  2. Can I Visit Kotor On A Day Trip From Dubrovnik? Yes, you can visit Kotor on a day trip from Dubrovnik. However, if you want to at least try its best food and soak in the vibe of the Old Town, you must plan for an overnight stay.  3. Do I Need A Visa To Visit Montenegro? If you are from the USA or a country that is part of the European Union, you will not need a visa to visit Montenegro. If you are from any of these countries, you can enter Montenegro and stay there for 90 days without a visa. You must check the visa requirements of your country.  4. Are There Budget-Friendly Accommodations In Kotor? Yes, the guesthouses in Dobrota and hostels such as the Old Town Hostel Kotor are some of the most budget-friendly accommodations in Kotor, Montenegro. The hostel prices will be around 15-25 Euros per night.  5. What Are The Must-Try Local Foods In Kotor? Kotor is famous for its seafood, and you can have it at local taverns or konobas. Furthermore, if you are in Njeguši, you must try prosciutto, a dry-cured ham with a lot of flavors. Moreover, burek, or the savory pastry, is the highlight of the delicacies of Kotor.  6. Do I Need To Rent A Car In Kotor?  No, you don’t need to rent a car in Kotor, Montenegro if you are a budget traveler. Local buses and shared taxis are easily available, and they are even suitable for day trips to Perast and Lovćen. Otherwise, you can take the boat rides, which are also quite affordable.