Portugal is a destination that calls to travelers with its creamy natas, unique landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. However, like many popular travel destinations, it is facing challenges from overtourism, particularly in cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. High costs, crowded streets, and the commercialization of certain areas can sometimes overshadow the authentic experiences that made Portugal the place to go in the first place. 

By following these tips, you can enjoy an authentic Portuguese experience while helping to preserve the beauty of the country for future generations. Portugal is a place where tradition and history come alive, and by being a mindful traveler, you can enjoy it without contributing to overtourism or the depletion of local resources. Travel for good, and let Portugal’s hidden gems leave a lasting impression on your journey.

But don’t worry—there are ways to see the real Portugal while being mindful of the impact of your visit. Here’s how you can travel sustainably, enjoy the country’s hidden gems, and avoid the crowds and high prices. Just dump the selfish "must sees," get out of the worn out path - and see the soul of Portugal. Here is how!

1. Explore Beyond Lisbon and Porto

While Lisbon and Porto are undeniably beautiful, they’re also overrun by tourists, especially during peak season. To avoid the crowds, consider venturing off the beaten path to lesser-known regions of Portugal where the experience is real, and the flavor, local.

• The Alentejo: A vast region known for its rolling plains, cork forests, and walled medieval towns. The Alentejo offers a slower pace of life and authentic rural experiences. Visit towns like Évora, Monsaraz, and Marvão, where you can explore ancient castles, world-class vineyards, and olive groves without the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds. Here you find Atlantic hikes, dark skies, and a sustainable set of local hotels.
• The Dão Valley: Instead of the Douro Valley. Exploring through the Dão wine region is a real joy, with country narrow roads walled by vineyards and sweet  little towns and villages built from the granite. And the wine is dam good too!
• The Azores and Madeira: These two island groups offer incredible landscapes, volcanic craters, and lush green hills. They’re perfect for nature lovers looking to hike, explore, and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of Portugal’s islands.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

To avoid the crowds and high costs, plan your trip to Portugal during the shoulder seasons—spring (March to May) or fall (Late-September to November). During these times, the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists, which means more affordable accommodations, better availability, and a more authentic experience.

3. Stay in Local, Family-Run Accommodations

Avoid chain hotels and opt for smaller, family-owned guesthouses, pousadas (historic inns), or AL quintas (country estates) that offer a more intimate and personal experience. Not only will you support local businesses, but you'll also gain insights into the local culture and traditions. Many of these accommodations are located in stunning rural settings surrounded by nature.

4. Dine Locally and Seasonally

Skip the tourist-heavy restaurants and eat where the locals do. Portugal is known for its fresh seafood, hearty stews, and delicious pastries, not Italian food or kebabs.  In smaller towns and rural areas, you’ll find tascas—family-run eateries serving traditional Portuguese dishes at affordable prices. Opt for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to support the community and enjoy the freshest meals. Some local specialties to try include bacalhau (salted cod), porco preto (black pork), and açorda (a traditional bread-based soup).

5. Engage in Responsible Tourism

Traveling sustainably in Portugal means being mindful of your environmental and social impact. Here are a few ways how:

• Choose eco-friendly transportation: Portugal has an excellent rail network (www.cp.pt) and using public transportation is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint. Consider renting a bike or walking when exploring towns and cities to enjoy a slower pace while reducing your environmental impact.
• Respect local culture and traditions: While enjoying Portugal’s beautiful landscapes and cities, always be respectful of local customs. Learn a few words of Portuguese to show appreciation for the culture, and avoid visiting over-crowded areas that are overwhelmed by tourism.
• Avoid “Insta-famous” spots: Popular destinations like the Benagil Caves of the Algarve, the Pena Palace in Sintra, or the Livraria Lello in Porto may look great on social media, but they’re often mobbed with tourists. Seek out lesser-known alternatives that offer equally stunning views without the crowds. For instance, the beautiful Alentejo coast around Porto Covo is a quieter, more pristine option compared to the bustling beaches in the south. The University Library at Coimbra is amazing, and the royal palace at Vila Viçosa has no lines.

6. Support Local Artisans and Businesses

One of the best ways to experience the real Portugal is by supporting local artisans and buying handmade crafts, such as cork products, ceramics, and textiles. Explore local markets where artisans sell their goods, like each Saturday at Estremoz, allowing you to bring home a unique, meaningful souvenir while contributing directly to the local economy.

7. Participate in Local Experiences

Rather than booking large-scale tours, look for local guides who offer intimate experiences, such as wine tastings at family-run vineyards, cooking classes with local chefs, or walking tours that dive deep into the history and culture of a specific region. Or hire a local guide! But please, don't hire a tuk-tuk, they just are not local.... These experiences allow you to connect with the heart of Portugal while avoiding the large crowds often found on more commercial tours.

8. Embrace the Slow Travel Movement

Instead of rushing from one attraction to the next, slow down and savor the essence of Portugal. Spend a few days in one place, take long walks through the countryside, and get to know the locals. The slower you go, the more you’ll discover about Portugal’s true charm.