Winter’s gentle embrace makes February an opportune time for budget-friendly travel to Portugal. Explore captivating cities and stunning natural landscapes without the summer’s sweltering heat or overwhelming tourist throngs.
Celebrate romance in February, and discover why Portugal is the ultimate Valentine’s Day escape. Let’s uncover the best holiday destinations in Portugal this February.
Portugal’s Most Romantic Getaways
From ancient castles to serene boat rides, enchanting vineyards to fairytale palaces, find endless inspiration for couple’s retreats. These destinations perfectly meld culture, delectable food, and dreamy backdrops, creating unforgettable moments.
Sintra
Nestled near Lisbon, Sintra is a true haven for lovers. Immerse yourselves in history, culture, and nature’s splendour . Wander hand-in-hand through the grounds of the Quinta da Regaleira, tour the lavish chambers of Pena Palace, take in sweeping vistas from the Moorish Castle, or have a delightful picnic at Lagoa Azul.
A visit to Monserrate Palace and its exotic gardens is an experience not to be missed. Conclude your day with an intimate dinner in the heart of the town, sampling the region’s culinary treasures. Try the local specialities , such as Negrais roast suckling pig and Mercês-style pork, and indulge in Sintra’s iconic queijadas and travesseiros.
Douro
The Douro Valley, the soul of Port wine, oozes romantic charm at every turn. Its jaw-dropping landscape, with terraced vineyards stretching as far as you can see, provide an extraordinary backdrop for a couple’s escape.
Start with a cruise along the Douro River, admiring the banks adorned with century-old wineries. If you prefer land, hop on a train ride along the Douro Line. Cap the day off at a local winery, indulging in world-class wines and learning about the production secrets. Some even feature outdoor dining, letting you savour regional dishes as you watch the sunset over the vines.
Aveiro
Dubbed the “Portuguese Venice,” this city is celebrated for its canals. The colourful moliceiro boats offer an incredibly romantic ride. Hold hands as you meander through the Costa Nova district. Should weather permit, try the sandy shores of Aveiro’s best beaches.
Spend the weekend taking in the city’s architecture, notable for its Art Nouveau flair . Furthermore, be sure to check out the Friendship Ribbon Bridge. And don’t forget the local cuisine, including lagoon eels and the famed ovos moles for dessert.
Reconnect with Nature on the Portuguese Islands
Portugal boasts island gems where you can embrace nature. Three stand out with their unparalleled beauty. These island destinations offer a special charm even in February with milder temperatures so you escape the intensity of the winter.
Madeira Island
A February weekend in Madeira Island is enchanting, with pleasant weather and many activities. Enjoy lovely weather around 17°C average, reaching highs around 20°C, especially near Funchal.
The climate lets you ride the Monte Cable Car. Enjoy incredible scenery of the island. You can hike Levada do Caldeirão Verde, crossing paths leading to a stunning waterfall. Treat yourself to Madeira’s famed cuisine, including espetadas, grilled limpets, poncha, bolo do caco, and honey cakes.
São Miguel
February is a good time with weather around 17°C in São Miguel, perfect to discover the island. Spending a weekend, discover the Sete Cidades Lagoon, a renowned location, and relax at Terra Nostra Park, with thermal pools for a unique experience. Make time for Lagoa do Fogo and Gorreana Tea Plantations, first of their kind in Europe.
São Miguel has a food culture, where local restaurants offer Furnas stew, slowly cooked with geothermal heat. Fresh tuna and chicharro are fish highlights. Make sure you taste regional cheeses and traditional sweets like Vila Franca do Campo queijadas.
Flores Island
Flores Island is among the Azores Archipelago’s western gems, a natural paradise. Visit in February and discover Poço Ribeira do Ferreiro, known for waterfalls, and volcanic lakes like Lagoa Comprida and Lagoa Negra. For hikers, the trail to Lajedo in Fajã Grande has southwest coastal views.
The cuisine here is delicious. Try stewed octopus, island cheese and honey. In February, high temperatues average around 16°C, with lows about 13°C, for discovering nature.
Budget-Friendly Escapes in Portugal during February
Portugal offers budget-friendly city destinations in February. It’s off-season when prices are lower, so visitors tour culture for less. Whether seeing monuments, having cuisine, or relaxing, discover cities for experiences.
Póvoa de Varzim
Near the northern shore of Portugal, Póvoa de Varzim is among affordable cities in February. Accommodation falls during the month with discounts of 33% relative to peaks. It is economical for relaxing.
During the stay, explore beaches with peaceful landscapes. The Municipal Museum of Ethnography and History is a look into heritage.
Palmela
In February Palmela is budget-friendly, with places to sleep from €37. Temperatures average between 10°C and 19°C, so explore the town around mild weather.
A must-try is the Palmela Castle, for regional views to be into culture. Casa Mãe da Rota dos Vinhos is tasting wine around flavors. Sweeten your visit with Azeitão tortas.
Castelo Branco
In Castelo Branco, visit the Jardim do Paço Episcopal, a historic green space. Manuel Cargaleiro Museum shows modern art. Also, have the Castelo Branco Embroidery Interpretive Centre.
The local cuisine offers maranhos, with goat to try local herbs and ham. As well, you can also go for tigeladas.
