Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Portugal recs for girls in their 20s
21
items A round up of the things I loved most in Portugal. Easy outfits, must try restaurants, spots that are actually worth visiting, and the little things that made traveling with friends feel fun and stress free. Perfect if you’re planning a girls trip or...
Sections
6
Where to stay on a budget
Activities
Travel essentials
Shops
Restaurants
What to wear
Where to stay on a budget
Hostels! I know they can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve never stayed in one, and being around strangers can feel a bit daunting. But they are one of the best ways to save money while traveling. Staying in the two hostels below was definitely...
Second time staying in a hostel and this one was clean and comfortable, but not as social as my last stay. People mostly kept to themselves, though the atmosphere was pleasant and the terrace was a lovely spot to relax. They also had dinners and happ...
The F tourists: Home
First time staying at a hostel and this one was the perfect introduction. It’s not super fancy, but it’s clean, the beds are comfortable, and the vibe is so welcoming. Everyone, from guests to staff, was friendly and open to sharing stories and meeti...
Banana Beach House
Activities
Free and paid activities that are must-dos while traveling in Portugal
Kayaking through the Benagil Caves was an unreal experience. The Brotherootz team was so kind and knowledgeable, and their kayaks and gear were clean and comfortable. I noticed other tours had gear that didn’t look nearly as nice. They even take phot...
Benagil Kayak & Sup Brotherootz
Lisbon and other parts of Portugal get big waves for surfing so this is a must do if you are here! Our instructor was very patient, helpful, and encouraging. This was a true highlight from our trip and would love to do it again. They provide the boar...
Surfing Lessons in Lisbon
Sintra was roughly a 40 minute train ride up from Lisbon and was so magical! There are many different castles you can visit and do tours in. We only had time to visit Pena Palace but want to go back and see the others. A lot of locals also recommende...
Explore Sintra
I was a little skeptical on how well these would be since they are free but I did two tours while on my trip and both times I had such a wonderful experience! You can give an optional tip to your guide afterwards (most people do) and it’s a great way...
Free Walking Tours
Another free activity you can do on your own, though there are also tours available. This hike was a little harder than people made it sound. The biggest challenge was following the trail because it gets unclear in some spots, but overall it was such...
Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys trail
Travel essentials
Only essentials that I think made my packaging easier and worth it
I know it may seem like a lot for a suitcase, but it’s worth the splurge. As someone who has always bought suitcases from TJ Maxx and Target, I wanted something that locked, was roomy, and actually felt high quality. I was hesitant to get the bigger ...
The Bigger Carry-On in Coast Blue
I fit 20 outfits in these things, need I say more?
BAGAIL 4/6/8 Set Compression Packing Cubes
The best hair dryer. It’s small, foldable, and light, so it fit perfectly in my suitcase, but it’s also powerful and gets hot enough. As someone who has to blow dry their hair after every shower, this was a must. The price is also a steal.
Conair 1600W Travel Hair Dryer, Dual Voltage
You’ll need this for anything that has a standard US plug. I liked this one the best because I could use my phone charger with the USB-C port.
HANYCONY EU Travel Plug Adapter USB C, 2 Outlets, 3 USB Ports
Shops
The best local shops to pop into
Really cute shop with many different handmade items and unique souvenirs.
Handmade Souvenir Shop - Casa da Bli, Lagos, Portugal
Another very cute store with unique souvenirs and handmade items.
A TOCA Lagos | Lagos
The Original Grater in Lagos sells the original greater plates and makes a great gift for other people. They do a live demonstration as well to show you how to use the plate.
This store in Lagos, Portugal sells the most amazing grater plates! 📍Av. dos Descombrimentos, 8600-663 Lagos #fyp #portugal #lagos #travel #trendingvideo #foryoupage #fypシ゚
Have a variety of cutely packaged soaps and perfumes. Perfect for a gift or souvenir.
Claus Porto
Whimsy shop for sardines! Has many different kinds and flavors.
The Fantastic World of The Portuguese Sardine
Restaurants
Probably one of my top 3 favorite restaurants while I was traveling. The views and food were incredible and the price point for the dishes were super reasonable. Highly recommend doing this after your kayaking tour or after your hike.
RESTAURANTE O STOP, Carvoeiro - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor
Best spot for Pastel da Natas!
A Arte do Sabor - Manteigaria - Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata
Very pretty view of the city and nice atmosphere. The food is pricey but this is one place where we splurged and the food was delicious and large portions. I liked how they had two different menus as well.
SEEN by Olivier - Lisboa
What to wear
Wore these all over Europe and they were very comfortable and went pretty much with everything.
Gola Badminton Metallic Sneakers
A white maxi skirt is a staple for any trip because you can wear it so many different ways and match it with different tops/shoes.
Open Edit Tiered Maxi Skirt