Portugal
Solo Travel

Portugal’s cities were made to be explored on foot, a mode of transport which lends itself to solo travel. Lisbon’s bohemian neighbourhood of Bairro Alto truly comes to life as darkness begins to fall, so you’ll seldom feel alone if you spend your evenings exploring the bustling boulevards. Authentic Fado music (a form of Portuguese singing) will provide the soundtrack for the balmy evenings and one of the city’s many rooftop bars would be a suitable location to set up shop.

In Porto, the nation’s second-city, the walkways are particularly enchanting and a form of artwork in themselves. Admire the eclectic street art and intricate azulejos (hand-painted tiles) on a city tour, alongside an expert local guide. Portugal also boasts art of another variety, with its authentic – yet innovative – culinary traditions, a treasured element of the cultural landscape; so settle into a seat at a world-class restaurant and sample bacalhau (the national dish of salted cod) or porco preto (Iberian black pork).

Equally, if you fancy some solo relaxation time, Portugal is equipped with astounding coastline and peppered with picturesque villages. Take travel at a slower pace, content in the knowledge that you’re only answering to your own itinerary. Wander through the abundant markets of Cascais and Aljezur, where you’ll find a plethora of organic produce and fresh seafood, or spend an afternoon lounging on the honey-hued beaches in solitude, stirring only to take a dip in the cobalt ocean.