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Camping in Portugal
60 campsites in Portugal
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Located in the Peneda-Gerês National Park amidst spectacular mountain scenery, this excellent, well-run site offers modern facilities in a truly natural area. The national park is home to all manner of flora, fauna and wildlife, including the roebuck, wolf and wild boar. There's plenty of scope in the immediate area for fishing, riding, canoeing, mountain biking and climbing, so outdoorsy types take advantage of the quality mountain hospitality and enjoy the clear, fresh air and activities amidst the dramatic scenery.
Here's a charming, well-run site, close to bustling Faro and with a bus service to the resort of Albufeira from the gate. There's space for 1400 touring units on generally flat ground with some terracing on the upper area and trees and shrubs giving reasonable shade in most parts. Pitches are not marked or numbered; you can take as much space as you wish. Electrical connections (10A) are available throughout. Winter stays are encouraged, including a pool and the main facilities remaining open.
Arriving at this large site in the suburbs of Lisbon, first impressions are good. Beyond the wide entrance with its ponds and fountains, the trees, lawns and flowering shrubs lead to the attractive swimming pool area. Positive impressions continue: on sloping ground, the site’s many terraces are well-shaded by trees and shrubs, and all 189 touring pitches are on concrete hardstandings with grass and a picnic table. All have 10A electricity connections, water and a drain.
Yelloh! Village Turiscampo is an outstanding site run by the friendly Coll family. The site provides 240 pitches for touring units, mainly in rows of terraces, 216 of which have 6/10A electricity, some with shade. There are 75 deluxe pitches with water and drainage. One hundred thirty-eight bungalows for rent occupy the upper terraces.
Not far east of Faro, Camping Ria Formosa is situated very close to a true natural paradise, the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. This is one of the few in Europe to be so well-preserved, and the beaches here are magnificent. The campsite is just a 20-minute walk from the local village of Cabanas with its shops, bars and restaurants. Here you can take a ferry across to the island, which is essentially a long spit of stunning soft, white sand.
A pleasant little seaside village, Angeiras has a good beach with the occasional restaurant and bar, several shops and a small supermarket. The campsite is close to the heart of the village and is probably the most attractive Orbitur site we have visited. It is well kept, and pitches are under trees, separated by neatly trimmed hedges. Manoeuvring larger units might be tricky in places, but some areas are not marked where you can find a spot under pine trees or in the open. There is space for some 404 touring units among the many seasonal caravans. Electrical connections (6A) are available throughout.
Picture beautiful beaches, warm sunshine and the Atlantic stretching away into the distance. It really is appealing, and Costa Do Vizir is the perfect spot for a family-friendly holiday. Located in Porto Covo on the west coast of Portugal, this site has an aquatic area, a beach a few metres away, varied activities, top-end accommodation and high-quality facilities. There is an exceptional fine dining restaurant on-site, and you will find the site's other restaurant on the beach, where you can watch the sunset.
A tranquil, lakeside site in an unspoilt setting, this will appeal most to those nature lovers who want to ‘get away from it all’ and to those who enjoy country pursuits such as walking, fishing and riding. There are 130 casual unmarked pitches on undulating grass and sand with ample electricity connections (16A). The site is lit but a torch is required. The friendly Dutch owner has carefully planned the site so each pitch has its own oak tree to provide shade. The open countryside and lake provide excellent views and a very pleasant environment.
Monte das Louzeiras is a family-run campsite with Swiss and Portuguese roots, where guests are invited to connect with the way of rural life. This is not a typical campsite, but rather an immersive experience on a sprawling 40-hectare estate, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. There are 25 spacious touring pitches available to choose from, situated among olive trees that provide shade and seclusion from other campers.
Quinta do Retiro is a charming, small campsite located in a l valley in on the outskirts of the village of Covas, it offers a peaceful escape from everyday life, far from tourism. The name "Retiro" itself means "a place to retreat," which perfectly encapsulates the essence of this destination. The campsite is well kept with many fruit trees with a small stream that runs across the campsite. It's particularly popular with nature lovers, hikers, and cyclists seeking peace and quiet. On site there are 29 spacious, unmarked touring pitches with electric hook up points, allow for privacy and seclusion. The owners, Linzi and Jeroen, are praised for their friendly and welcoming approach when staying here.
Parque de Campismo Cepo Verde is a quiet and family-oriented campsite with an extraordinary landscape within the Montesinho National Park. Its beautiful surroundings make it an ideal site for keen hikers, with clearly marked walking trails nearby and maps available from reception. The site has around 40 touring pitches with 6 amp electric hook-up points available. Choose to rest your head at this peaceful and tranquil site, and you will be treated to quiet pitches in the open woods, shaded by impressive chestnut, cherry and oak trees.
An hour from Lisbon, Huttopia Lagoa de Óbidos is your beachfront base for endless water adventures. With the stunning Óbidos Lagoon on your doorstep, it's the perfect spot for surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The comfortable accommodations and peaceful atmosphere provide the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Nestled in green hills near two pretty white villages, close to the beautiful Praia Odeceixe (beach) is the attractive camping park São Miguel. The site works on a maximum number of 700 campers and there are no defined pitches; you find your own place under the tall trees. There are ample 6/10A electrical points and the land slopes away gently. The impressive main building with its traditional Portuguese architecture is built around two sides of a large grassy square. There are Lisbon arcade-style verandas to sit under and enjoy a drink, coffee or meal while taking in the view across the square to the attractive pool.
Within easy reach of an extensive beach, Orbitur Camping Vagueira is a large site shaded under tall pine trees behind the dunes. Pitches are on sandy soil with sparse grass, and the central area is fairly level. Elsewhere pitches are on sloping ground between the trees. Electrical connections (6A) are available throughout, although long leads may be needed.
Attractively laid out among low pine trees, some twisted by the wind into interesting shapes, Orbitur Camping Guincho is located behind dunes and a wide, sandy beach. With a railway and motorway connection to Lisbon, the site provides a good base for combining a seaside holiday with a sightseeing visit to Portugal’s fascinating capital.
This very attractive and well-kept site is situated under tall pines on the edge of the rather select, small resort of São Pedro de Moel. It is a shady and peaceful place in low season but can be crowded in July and August. There is space for some 400 touring units, including a few small marked pitches; otherwise you choose a place between the trees in one of two large camping areas; one has plentiful 6/10A electrical connections, the other a very limited provision.
Parque de Campismo Colina do Sol is a spacious and well-appointed site situated close to a beach, and the village of São Martinho do Porto. It has around 320 touring pitches on grassy terraces, some marked by fruit and ornamental trees. Electricity (6A) is available, and there are numerous seasonal caravans. The attractive entrance, with its beds of bright flowers, is wide enough for even the largest of units.
Salema EcoCamp is an attractive and peaceful valley site. The campsite was formerly known as Parque de Campismo Quinta dos Carriços. On arrival, a traditional tiled Portuguese-style entrance leads you down a steep incline into this excellent, well-maintained site, which has a village atmosphere. Much of the site has been recently redeveloped, along with the introduction of environmental elements such as solar heating for the water, using locally sourced, organic produce in the restaurant and selling eco-products in the shop. The campsite is spread over two valleys (which are real sun traps), with many of the 500 partially terraced pitches marked and divided by trees and shrubs (oleanders and roses). Others are less well defined among trees. There are 6/16A electricity connections to over 300 pitches. A small stream (sometimes dry) meanders through the site.
Anyone who likes a simple, well-run campsite in the depths of the countryside will love Quinta Valbom. Surrounded by wooded slopes with mountains in the distance, the site has been created from a deserted wine-producing farmstead by its enthusiastic Dutch owners, Els and Herman. It is primarily a place for campers; of the 30 pitches, 20 are for campers. All pitches 10A electricity available, on several terraces reached by a steep cobbled road. Those on the upper terraces are suitable only for tents. There is space for nine caravans (maximum length 6 m) and one motorhome on the lower terraces (Herman will meet caravanners and tow you up the extremely steep approach road and onto your pitch).
This peaceful inland site is attractively located on the edge of the village of Sarzedo, some three kilometres from the town of Arganil. It is on a hill among pine trees above the River Alva, where you can paddle, fish or canoe. A spacious and well-planned site, it is of high quality for a municipal, and prices are very reasonable. There are no marked pitches, but young trees define where you can park, and there is space for about 120 units, mainly on a flat, sandy grass terrace. There are 75 electrical connections (5-15A). The site is beautifully clean and neat, and access roads are tarmac.
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Portugal Blogs
Alternative Portugal
Russell Wheldon | 31 Oct 2022 | Read time: 9m 51s
The Alentejo forms around a third of Portugal's landmass, yet it has just 6% of the population, and few visitors can claim to know much about it. This is one of Europe's least densely populated regions and a sorely overlooked holiday destination.
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Although stretches of its coast around the best beaches are very developed, there are plenty of places to go for...
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Read MoreCamping in Portugal
Our assessors have approved over 50 campsites throughout Portugal, from basic campsites through to four-star full-service family campsites with excellent facilities. Tents, touring caravans, campervans and motorhomes are welcome, though it’s worth checking in advance if planning to arrive with a large unit.
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Wild camping in Portugal is permitted, but there are restrictions, as well as the obvious usual responsibilities to adhere to. Some keen surfers set up camp near their favourite beach or park up together in informal groups on the cliffs to make the most of the atmosphere and be sure not to miss the best waves.
Regions of Portugal
Portugal is the westernmost point of Europe, situated on the Iberian peninsula, bordered by Spain in the north and east, with the Atlantic coast in the south and west. Despite its relatively small size, Portugal is a powerhouse of cultural and historical variety, with a rich cuisine, unique wines and distinctive traditions.
The Algarve is the annual destination for some ten million sun seekers and water sports enthusiasts who love its sheltered sandy beaches and clear Atlantic sea. Check out our Exploring Southern Portugal road trip for more inspiration. In contrast, the lush hills and forests of central Portugal are home to historic buildings and magnificent monuments, particularly Lisbon, set on the River Tagus estuary and the capital city.
Lisbon’s history can be seen still in the Alfama Quarter, which survived the devastating earthquake of 1755. By night the city is alive with vibrant cafes, restaurants and bars.
To the southeast, the land stretches out into vast landscapes of undulating plains with cork plantations and hilltop forts. Évora is a popular destination for its stunning ancient history, convents, marble fountains and Roman temple. There is so much cultural wealth here that the whole town is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To the north lies the Minho area, one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions, home to a glorious National Park and not far from the famous vineyards producing port wine.
The Algarve
The popular destination of choice for beach holidays is traditionally the Algarve. With turquoise waters and long sandy beaches backed by cliffs, it is also known for its golf courses and balmy weather. There are plenty of decent Algarve campsites.
The Algarve coast runs for over 150 miles and features golden beaches and weather-beaten rock formations. The regional capital is Faro, with the fishing port of Lagos an important city too. The 1755 earthquake caused huge damage, but the character of the streets and elegant squares remains intact.
Within easy walking distance are superb beaches, including Praia do Dona Ana, one of the most picturesque, and the smaller coves of Praia do Pinhão and Praia Camilo. The hills to the north mark the edge of the lush interior region where fig trees, orange groves, and almond trees thrive.
Here there are ancient villages full of rural traditions and the walled town of Silves with its Moorish fortress and 13th-century cathedral. Monchique is an old spa town perched on a steep hillside with narrow streets and marvellous views.
Lisbon and Vale do Tejo
Lisbon is a great world city, with deep-rooted cultural traditions and many influences from all over the world. It has been the capital since 1255 and includes the characterful quarters of Alfama, Belem and Mouraria, bustling streets and villages within the city. Nearby is Sintra, backed by the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Cabo da Roca is Europe’s westernmost point, and nearby are attractive little towns like Peniche, Nazaré and Obidos, with tiny streets of white-washed houses and balconies brimming over with flowers. History dominates, with brooding castles at Santarém, Leiria and Tomar and monasteries at Alcobaça and Batalha.
The Alentejo
With its four key districts of Beja, Évora, Setúbal and Portalegre, this is a region of epic proportions. With 30% of the country’s land mass, yet only 6% of the population, this is a vast, sparsely populated area. It is dominated by endless plains of sunflowers, a carpet of wildflowers in spring, cork oaks and olive groves. Ancient hilltop villages bask in the sun, narrow little cobble lanes linking white-washed houses with the castle and cafés where old men sit and talk in the shade.
The Alentejo is a region steeped in history, from Neolithic man who created the numerous dolmens and standing stone formations that litter the countryside, some older than Stonehenge, to the Romans, Moors and Spanish.
The Alentejo coast is wild and beautiful to the south, with some of Portugal’s best and emptiest, beaches – try Santiago do Cacém or around Vila Nova de Milfontes. The surfing here is world-class, attracting serious surfers and surf competitions from around the world.
Beiras and Centre
Flanked by Portugal’s two main rivers, the Douro and the Tagus, this is a region of fine, sandy beaches, fishing villages and pine forests along the coast and an interior of some of Portugal’s wildest terrain and highest mountains. Coimbra is the capital, one of Europe’s oldest university towns.
Porto and the North
Renowned for its stunning scenery, with the river Douro meandering slowly towards the Atlantic coast, Oporto is renowned for its wines. The home of port, as well as Vinho Verde, the region has long had an affinity with Britain. Porto city is the centre of the port wine trade, and there are terraced vineyards across the Douro Valley. It’s a place for walking, canoeing and relaxing in spa towns like Carvalhelhos, Chaves and Pedras Salgadas. Vidago is well worth visiting, while the mountains of Peneda, Soajo and Gerês form the Peneda Gerês National Park.
A brief Portuguese history
Portugal’s history is a colourful mix of settlers from the Celts, Phoenicians and Romans who constructed important tools of empire like the temples and important farming estates.
From 711, the Moors left a hugely important legacy which persists today in the language, architecture and cuisine. In the 14th century, Portugal became a major power in the Age of Exploration. Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Dias were pivotal in raising Portugal’s international profile and ensuring lucrative access to gold, trade and minerals.
The cuisine of Portugal
The best of Portuguese cuisine is often when it is at its simplest: incredible breads made with grain from the Alentejo plains, fresh grilled sardines, cheeses from Serpa, olives and sensational wines. The Moorish influence is pronounced with almonds and citrus, and there is an amazing array of rice-based puddings (often with cinnamon and other spices), tempting cakes and pastries – not least the pastel de nata, the irresistible custard tarts.
Portugal at a glance
Climate
The country enjoys a maritime climate with hot summers and mild winters with comparatively low rainfall in the south, heavy rain in the north.
Language
Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in cities, towns and larger resorts. French can be useful.
Finance and currency
Currency: The Euro (€)
Bank Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 08.30-11.45 and 13.00-14.45. Some large city banks offer a currency exchange 18.30-23.00.
Shop Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 09.00-13.00 and 15.00-19.00. Sat 09.00-13.00.
Public Holidays
- New Year: 1st January
- Carnival (Shrove Tuesday), Good Friday, Corpus Christi
- Liberty Day: 25th April
- Labour Day: 1st May
- National Day: 10th June
- Assumption: 15th August
- Republic Day: 5th October
- All Saints: 1st November
- Immaculate Conception: 8th December
- Christmas: 24-26 December
Please note Some dates are moveable, so please check before travelling.