Portugal for Older Travellers

Portugal is a superb destination for older travellers. It’s safe and welcoming, with good food, gentle weather and a slower pace of life, and it’s easy to get around without a car. Winter stays in the Algarve and Madeira are especially popular. Here’s how to plan a comfortable trip.

Quick answer: choose a comfortable base and take day trips rather than moving every night. The flattest, easiest places are the Algarve resorts, Cascais, Madeira’s Funchal seafront and Aveiro. Lisbon and Porto are steep, so use taxis, trams and tours. River cruises on the Douro are a relaxing way to see wine country. Look out for senior discounts on trains and at sights.

The best places

• The Algarve: mild winters, flat promenades and resorts. Popular for long winter stays. See the Algarve in winter.
• Madeira: spring-like weather all year, gardens and an easy seafront in Funchal. See Madeira in winter.
• Cascais and Estoril: a seaside base with a flat promenade and a direct train to Lisbon. See the best hotels in Cascais.
• Lisbon and Porto: wonderful, but hilly. See below.
• The Douro: best seen from a boat or the train. See Douro river cruises.

Lisbon and Porto without the hills

• Take a tuk-tuk or a hop-on hop-off bus up the hills. See Lisbon tuk-tuk tours.
• Taxis and Uber are cheap. See Uber vs Bolt vs taxi.
• Stay low: the Baixa in Lisbon and Ribeira or Aliados in Porto.
• Boat trips are relaxing. See Lisbon sunset cruises and the six bridges cruise.

Guided tours

Small-group and private day tours handle the driving and walking at a comfortable pace. They’re ideal for Sintra, the Douro and Fátima. See the best Lisbon tours and the best Porto tours.

Practical tips

• Discounts: many museums and trains offer reduced fares for over-65s. Carry ID.
• Pavements: wear shoes with good grip, as the stone pavements are slippery.
• Health: pharmacies are excellent. Bring your prescriptions and travel insurance.
• Heat: avoid July and August inland. Spring and autumn are ideal. See the best time to visit.
• Priority: older people get priority in queues in shops and public services by law.

More: accessible travel in Portugal, the train guide and 7 days in Portugal.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.