I’ve called Portugal home since 2012, spending time across different regions—before I moved to Copenhagen in 2022. Now, as a Copenhagen-based expat, I’m excited to share my insights in this solo travel guide to Portugal 2025. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a spot to work remotely or an adventurer eager to discover new places, Portugal’s got a lot to offer. It’s safe, affordable, and packed with diverse destinations, from vibrant cities to stunning coastlines. With over a decade of experience in the country, I’m here to walk you through my favorite spots and share some practical tips to make your solo trip amazing.
Portugal has a special charm that makes it ideal for solo travelers. In 2025, it’s gaining even more popularity—solo travel searches are up significantly, and the country’s known for being safe and welcoming. I’ve traveled across Europe, Southeast Asia, and beyond, and Portugal always stands out. You’ve got bustling cities like Lisbon, quiet coastal towns like Aveiro, and so much more, offering something for everyone.
Digital nomads will find a lot to love here too. Lisbon and Porto have fantastic coworking spaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and the Digital Nomad Visa makes it easy to stay longer. Plus, it’s budget-friendly compared to many European destinations. Whether you’re here to work with a view or explore on your own, Portugal in 2025 is a great choice.
My Top 5 Destinations for Solo Travel in Portugal
1. Lisbon – A Lively Hub for Digital Nomads
Lisbon’s energy is infectious. The city’s full of colorful streets, old trams, and a nightlife that’s always buzzing. You can wander through Alfama’s narrow alleys, listen to fado music in a local tavern, or grab a coffee at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte with a stunning view. It’s a safe place to explore on your own, even at night, which is perfect for solo travel.
If you’re a digital nomad, Lisbon’s got you covered. Coworking spaces like Second Home Lisbon and Betahaus offer fast Wi-Fi and a community vibe where you can connect with others. LX Factory is another great spot—it’s a creative hub with galleries and cafés, ideal for meeting fellow travelers. Want to find more workspaces? Check out Lisbon’s digital nomad guide on Nomad List.
2. Porto – A Cozy City to Explore at Your Own Pace
Porto has a more intimate vibe than Lisbon. The Ribeira district along the Douro River is a highlight, with colorful houses lining the water. You can walk across the bridges or visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Porto’s easy to navigate on foot, and it feels safe to explore solo, even in the evenings.
Digital nomads will enjoy Porto’s relaxed pace. Selina Secret Garden is a coworking space with a rooftop terrace, perfect for working while soaking in the city’s charm. If you have a day to spare, I recommend a trip to the Douro Valley for wine tasting—it’s a short trip and absolutely worth it. Find more tour ideas on Visit Portugal.
3. Lagos (The Algarve) – Coastal Adventures Await
Lagos in the Algarve is a gem for nature lovers. The town boasts golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, like those at Ponta da Piedade, which are perfect for exploring. The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail offers a scenic hike with breathtaking ocean views. Kayak tours to the sea caves are another fun option, and they’re a great way to meet other travelers if you’re feeling social.
For digital nomads, Outsite Lagos provides a coworking space with ocean views, making work feel a bit more relaxing. The Algarve is also budget-friendly—meals cost around €10—and the sunny weather makes it an excellent spot to visit in 2025, whether you’re working or just enjoying the coast.
4. Aveiro – A Quiet Coastal Escape
Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal” for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats, is a smaller town that’s perfect for a peaceful getaway. You can take a boat ride through the canals or visit Costa Nova beach nearby, known for its striped houses. It’s a calm place to wander around on your own, and the locals are friendly, which makes it feel welcoming.
While Aveiro isn’t a major digital nomad hub, you can find cafés with decent Wi-Fi for remote work. It’s also just an hour from Porto by train, so you can easily head there if you need a city fix. It’s similar to some quieter spots I’ve found in Copenhagen, like the ones I wrote about in my blog on hidden gems in Copenhagen, if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe.
5. Madeira – An Island Full of Adventure
Madeira is a bit of a journey, but it’s a paradise for solo travelers who love nature. Stay in Funchal and hike levada trails like the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, which takes you through lush forests to a waterfall. It’s a safe spot to explore, and group activities—like jeep tours to Pico do Arieiro for sunrise views—make it easy to meet others if you want company.
Digital nomads will appreciate Madeira’s growing scene, thanks to the Digital Nomads Madeira Islands program. They’ve set up coworking spaces in Ponta do Sol with ocean views, blending work and adventure seamlessly. It’s a destination to watch in 2025. Learn more on Digital Nomads Madeira’s website.
Practical Tips for Solo Travel in Portugal
Stay Safe: Portugal is one of Europe’s safest countries. You can walk around Lisbon and Porto at night without worry, but it’s wise to stick to well-lit areas and keep your belongings secure, especially in touristy spots.
Get Around Easily: Public transport is reliable. Trains from Lisbon to Porto cost about €25, and buses work well in the Algarve. In Madeira, renting a car for €30 a day gives you more freedom. Check train schedules on CP Railways.
Find a Workspace: Digital nomads have plenty of options—Lisbon and Porto offer spots like Second Home Lisbon and Selina Secret Garden, while Madeira’s program in Ponta do Sol is fantastic. Browse Coworker for more ideas.
Keep Costs Low: Portugal’s affordable. Meals are €8–15, coworking spaces around €15 a day, and hostels go for €20–40 a night. Apps like Bolt can help you save on rides.
Meet People: If you want company, join a tour or coworking event. Kayak tours in Lagos or group hikes in Madeira are great for connecting with others. Apps like Meetup can help you find local events.
Pack Smart: Bring layers for Madeira’s weather and comfy shoes for hiking. If you’re working, don’t forget your laptop, and a power bank is handy for long days.
Consider the Digital Nomad Visa: Planning a longer stay? Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live here for up to a year.
Dive Into the Culture: Learn a few Portuguese phrases like “obrigado” (thank you) to connect with locals. A cooking class to make pastéis de nata is a fun way to get involved.
Portugal is a fantastic place for solo travelers, whether you’re working remotely in Lisbon or hiking in Madeira. My time in the country—starting back in 2012—has shown me how versatile it is, from digital nomad-friendly cities to quiet coastal towns. I hope this solo travel guide to Portugal helps you plan an amazing trip. What’s your favorite solo travel destination in Portugal? Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!
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