Je viens d'arriver à Porto pour une durée de 9 jours et je ne peux qu'exprimer ma déception ! La ville semble frappée de sinistrose aigüe, des quartiers entiers sont en ruine, la pauvreté est omniprésente, (queues de centaines de personnes attendant l'aide alimentaire dans tous les quartiers, gens dormant à même le sol partout dans la ville) tout est abandonné ! En tant que voyageur régulier un peu partout en europe et en amérique du nord, je suis extrêmement déçu de mon premier séjour au Portugal. Malheureusement, la crise n'est certainement pas étrangère à cette impression générale ! Le premier jour, j'ai sillonné le centre ville ainsi que le quartier de cedofeita, qui transpirent la joie de vivre (ironie). Puis le second je suis allé me promener le long du douro, sur les quais de la ribeira. Ces quais sont très jolis, comme un rayon de soleil au milieu de cet océan de tristesse. Les jours suivants, direction l'océan, grâce au métro qui est de très bonne facture, d'ailleurs. Géographiquement, le lieu est joli, mais quelle idée d'installer toutes les usines pétrochimiques au bord de la plage la plus fréquentée ? La promenade au bord de la mer est d'un autre temps, on peut y côtoyer de grands espaces vides bétonnés, des immeubles d'architecture brutaliste, une voie rapide aérienne surplombe même une partie de la promenade et un étang. Un taxi m'a même affirmé qu'il fallait faire très attention dans les rues du centre apparemment truffées de pick pockets et de gens peu fréquentables. Bref, je pense ne plus revenir dans ce coin. J'ai cherché des avis sur cette ville avant de venir, mais je n'ai rien trouvé. A bon entendeur...
Ah bon? j'y suis allée cet été, et je n'ai pas du tout ressenti ça..peut-être que l'époque, le beau temps, les touristes plus nombreux ont joué sur tout ça..mais j'ai trouvé une ville douce à vivre, agréable, dans laquelle on se sent bien. Je ne me suis jamais sentie en insécurité. Nous logions près du haut de la Rua Santa Catarina et c'est sûr que de nombreuses maisons sont à l'abandon, mais je trouve qu'il reste quand même du charme à cette vieille ville;
Bonjour
Je ne suis pas portugais; mais il y a plus de 20 ans que je vais
a Porto et ses environs en été, et ce que vous dites me fait réagir,
je n'ai jamais rien trouve de ce que vous dites avec toutes les belles
choses qu'il y à a voir a Porto et ses environs, naturellement si vous
êtes resté 8 jours a Porto même cela vous a peut-être paru monotone.
Il y a la vallée du Douro(100Km), Braga et ses environs Guimaraes ..etc
tous ces sites méritent le déplacement naturellement il faut louer une
voiture, si vous aviez pris le métro pour aller a Povoa de Varzin une plage
magnifique et propre de 5 Km de long jusqu’à Vila do Conde avec pistes
cyclables et piétonnes pavées.
Des gens que dorment par terre malheureusement il y en a dans toutes
les grandes villes même en France, et je tiens a vous signaler qu'il n'y a
pas plus de voleurs au Portugal qu'en France ou ailleurs.
Le Portugal a peut-être bien changé depuis septembre dernier.
Ceci n'est qu'une mise au point et n'engage que moi.
Sans rancune, a chacun ses idées.
Oui je suis d'accord avec vous; nous étions en voiture, et avions fait un peu de la vallée du Douro, Barcelos, Guimaraès aussi..c'était vraiment super, et Porto aussi, avec tout ce que nous avons vu....J'espère que vous passerez néanmoins de bonnes vacances!
Je pense que la crise n'est pas étrangère à tout ça, j'ai lu des articles disant que les magasins fermaient les uns après les autres. De plus, la TVA dans la restauration est passée de 13% à 23%, ce qui n'aide pas pour mettre de l'ambiance. Autrement, c'est sûr qu'il y a des coins magnifiques: le bord du douro, les petites rues pleines de charme de la ribeira...
Je veux juste dire que je ne m'attendais pas à sentir une telle chape de plomb. Je tiens juste à souligner l'ambiance lourde due à la crise (même si j'ai été surpris par la plage de Matosinhos qui est certe jolie mais malheureusement bordée d'usines pétrochimiques).
Je passe néanmoins du bon temps à Porto et j'attends impatiemment l'arrivée du printemps.
Bonjour, c'est effectivement l'aggravation de la situation économique qui provoque cela, c'est la meme chose en Espagne, j'étais très surpris lors de mon dernier passage a Valencia de trouver la ville morte a 11 heures du soir, tout était déja fermé, restos , bars,
mon ami local m'a dit "plus de sous, tout le monde reste a la maison". Pas d'affolement cela risque bien d'etre la meme chose en France bientot, la crise ne fait que commencer.
Content de voir l'ensemble des réponses car nous avons réservé 3 nuits à Porto cet été et le but était de servir de Porto pour justement rayonner autour et entre autre aller dans la vallée du douro, aller vers Guimaraes et passer une journée à visiter Porto et Gaia.
Est-ce que cela fait du sens?
Êtes-vous sûr que ça n'est pas la misère qui vous a gêné plutôt que la ville d'Oporto en elle-même ?
Pour information, un ancien collègue Portugais qui était serveur m'a dit que son meilleur salaire à Oporto était de 600 € par mois. Et le coût de la vie n'est pas grandement différent avec celui de la France...
C'est dommage, j'ai l'impression que vous n'avez vu que cet aspect là. N'allez jamais en dehors des pays Occidentaux alors...
Pour être déjà allé dans des pays plus pauvres que le Portugal, je suis "malheureusement" déjà conscient de l'effet que peut avoir la pauvreté sur l'appréciation d'une ville. Ce qui me marque ici, plus que la pauvreté, c'est la sinistrose, la tristesse, l'ambiance !
Je pense que ça doit être du à la déception. Le Portugal était en pleine croissance avant la crise, ça doit expliquer la morosité ambiante.
Aillant moi-même visiter des pays bien moins riches que ceux d'Occident, les habitants de ces pays étaient bien plus accueillants. C'est dommage de dire ça mais on est mieux accueillit dans un pays moins riche que dans un pays très riche.
J'espère que cette ambiance n'a pas gâché vos vacances en tout cas.
We're heading to Genoa and the Cinque Terre in mid-October for a full week. We're planning to spend two and a half days—three nights—in the Cinque Terre. The idea is to hike between the villages and use the train (or boat) for the trip out (or back). We're thinking of staying overnight, and I was wondering which village to prioritize.
We’re traveling next summer with our three kids, ages 9 to 15. We’ll arrive in Cork by ferry with our car. We’d like to stay several nights at each stop to settle in, take our time, and stay flexible depending on the weather!
What do you think of this 18-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival around 9:30 AM, drive to Kinsale to visit the village and Charles Fort, then accommodation
- Day 2: Blarney Castle + Cork, then accommodation
- Day 3: Travel to Kenmare (stopping at Gougane Barra?)
- Day 4: Glengariff and surrounding area
- Day 5: Healy Pass + southern Beara
- Day 6: Gap of Dunloe + Kenmare and Reenagross Park
- Day 7: Dursey Island
- Day 8: Killarney National Park
- Day 9: Travel to Clare (stopping at Bunratty)
- Day 10: Kilkee + Loop Head
- Day 11: The Burren
- Day 12: Aran Islands
- Day 13: Travel day to Connemara (stopping at Roundstone and Dog’s Bay or via Galway?)
- Day 14: Clifden + Sky Road + beach
- Day 15: Diamond Hill
- Day 16: Kylemore Abbey + Killary Fjord
- Day 17: Drive back to Cork (stopping at Cahir)
- Day 18: Departure
Hi there, after reading a well-known travel guide, it seems like there’s a lot to see and do in Valletta (I’m only talking about Valletta itself). That’s why I’m thinking of spending 2 days there. I don’t want to rush and would like to get a complete overview. However, I’ve noticed that some travelers only spend one day there. For those who know the city well, what do you think? (I’ve also planned the Three Cities for another day, by the way).
Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
Our accommodation for 5 days will be near a "Carrefour by Deliveroo Hop." There doesn’t seem to be anything else nearby (it’s a very residential area).
I can’t figure out if it’s delivery-only or if you can also do your grocery shopping there. Does anyone know this type of store and could help me out, please?
Thanks in advance!
PS: I called, but I don’t speak Italian and the store doesn’t speak English—so they hung up on me.
Hi,
I’ve found my upcoming trip for February, and now I’m looking for a one-week getaway in April—somewhere not too far with generally nice weather. Any tips?
Best,😉
Hi everyone, we’re a group of 11 people (including 3 kids under 4) who’d like to do a wine tasting tour starting from Florence (we haven’t rented a car) in Chianti.
We’re looking for an organized tour that leaves from Florence and lets the adults do some wine tasting (and olive oil tasting if possible).
For those who’ve done this tour, do you have any suggestions for tour names that organize these kinds of events? What should we look out for before booking these tours?
Hi, who’s familiar with the Algarve?
Lagos—should I go for a rental or a hotel? How do I get from the airport to the seaside, and how do I get around the city? What’s there to see and do?
Thanks for your ideas and tips!
Hello, VoyageForum friends, and happy holidays!
I’m planning a trip with my 19-year-old grandson to Milan for Easter Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in 2025.
I’d love your insights on what we can visit in Milan that would interest both my grandson and me (I’m 75). Of course, I’m thinking of the must-sees, but not just those—cozy little restaurants, trendy neighborhoods, and anything else you’d recommend. I’m also looking for a comfortable hotel in the city center that isn’t too expensive!
I’m sure the VoyageForum community will help me uncover some hidden gems! Looking forward to your replies.
Summer 2027 is going to be Norwegian for us!
We’re heading to the Lofoten Islands first, then Senja, near Tromsø, and finally the North Cape.
We’ll likely start from northern Finland (flight tickets and car rentals are more affordable there).
I’d like to book accommodations early to have more options.
Good value-for-money places go fast in these pricey Nordic destinations...
But where should we book?
We’re planning to stay around ten nights in the Lofoten Islands.
What’s the best approach?
One place in the central part and explore from there?
One place in the south and another in the center?
Or one in the south, one in the center, and one in the north (3-4-3 nights)?
Hi there, my husband and I are planning a trip to Iceland in mid-October 2026.
Would you have any advice on the best places to visit for a first trip to this destination? Thanks
Hi, I'm heading to Italy soon and I wanted to know if Italian banks charge fees when you withdraw cash at an ATM, or if, like in Spain or Greece, it's better to avoid taking out money and bring cash instead. Looking forward to your replies... Thanks
We’re planning a short trip at the end of July to explore the legendary mountains and valleys of the Bernese Oberland: round trip from Nancy (Swiss highway vignette planned), 2 nights in a room with a small kitchen in Adelboden, then 2 nights in a hotel at the Gletscherblick in Grindelwald, both with half-board included.
Could you share some tips on the best road routes to take, as well as some walking hikes (we’re not as fit as we used to be, so nothing longer than 2-3 hours)? Maybe also 1 or 2 cable car rides—I was thinking of Oeschinensee Lake above Kandersteg and the First gondola above Grindelwald for better panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau... all while keeping it doable with our schedule. We’ve ruled out the "premium" trip up to the Jungfraujoch for this time.
I’m also guessing that paying to access Wengen or Mürren only makes sense if we’re staying there for a few days, right?
- Is the road through the narrow valley of the White Lütschine toward Lauterbrunnen and beyond still worth it in terms of views and scenery?
On the way back, if we have a little time to explore Bern’s historic old town, what’s the best parking plan for a 1- or 2-hour stop?
Thanks in advance for your advice, fellow travelers familiar with this beautiful region! 😉
Hi,
I’ll be in Barcelona at the end of October.
I can choose to be there over the weekend or during the week. Probably 4 nights.
Is there a big difference in terms of crowds in the city and in the museums?
Little or no difference would simplify my itinerary on the way.
Hi there,
I’ll be in Rome from April 1st to 13th, 2026—it’s coming up fast!
I’ve been searching online for tickets to visit the Borghese Gallery, but either there’s no availability or the tickets offered are ridiculously expensive.
Could someone guide me to a website where I can book 2 skip-the-line tickets (I’ve heard you have to reserve in advance online)?
Hi everyone,
I rented a car through Klaus Wagen, picking it up in downtown Porto and returning it in downtown Lisbon.
After paying, I read some pretty negative reviews about them.
So, can anyone reassure me with positive experiences they’ve had with them?
Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Setúbal at the end of June with my granddaughter, and I can’t seem to find clear info on the best way to get from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal. It looks like there’s a train or bus, but I can’t find the exact names of the bus (or train) companies or the precise departure points. Thanks if anyone can help me out! 😉 Just to clarify, I’m on a tight budget and have already ruled out taxis or similar options.
Hello,
We’re heading to Puglia at the end of May. We’re a senior couple. We arrive in Bari, where we’ve booked accommodation for 2 nights. We’ve rented a car.
Day 1: Bari
Day 2: Polignano a Mare – Monopoli
Day 3: Ostuni – Brindisi
Day 4: Lecce
Day 5 & 6: Exploring the coast from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca
Day 7 & 8: Gallipoli area
Day 9 & 10: Matera
We’re considering renting a place near Lecce for 5 days and using it as a base to explore the region.
Hi there,
I visited the Faroe Islands in late March 2026 for about ten days. I was invited by a friend who lives near Tórshavn, so I don’t have any info on tourist accommodations or car rentals. Still, I’d like to share a few thoughts about my trip:
- Before leaving, I consulted travel guides and blogs. I was surprised by how repetitive and unoriginal the featured sites were. This leads hurried travelers to follow the same overcrowded routes, which can annoy locals. I found that all Faroese villages were interesting—they reflect the country’s identity, even without the iconic grass-roofed houses. Those are indeed harmonious and beautiful, but they feel like an exotic cliché. For activities, I loved the lively ports that keep the country running.
- I was annoyed by the paid trails in tourist spots. Locals explained that these paths cross private land, and owners are responsible for maintenance and safety. There are plenty of free trails, too—signs at the start detail their features. While not alarmist, the extreme and unpredictable weather is a key factor to consider before setting out.
- The wind’s strength really impressed me. The architecture, with doors and windows opening outward to prevent gusts from blowing roofs off, speaks to the harsh climate. Some days, relentless rain and squalls made going outside unappealing. I realized that in this country, it’s best to plan for flexible indoor days.
- Distances are relatively short. I was happy to be based near Tórshavn because it was easy to explore one or more places in a day. The roads are in great condition. In late March, diesel was 2 €. Tunnel tolls can add up (~26 € per crossing), making a fixed base less practical than I’d thought.
- Everyone agrees: the landscapes are breathtaking. Nature feels untamed here—except for the short grass, thanks to all the woolly sheep.
- The flight from Paris to the Faroe Islands (and back) was long in March—11 hours with three legs: Paris-Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Copenhagen, Copenhagen-Vágar. In bad weather, Vágar Airport can close, causing delays. During tourist season, Atlantic Airways offers a direct Paris-Faroe Islands flight, which is more comfortable and cheaper.
- I found a book recommendation in a guide that fascinated me after my trip: *Les collectionneurs d'images* by Joanes Nielsen. Through its sometimes caricatured characters, it offers a glimpse into Faroese mentalities from the 1950s to 1970s—attitudes that likely persist today.
In conclusion, I’ve traveled a lot and I’m tired of destinations that all start to look the same. The Faroe Islands were a delight—a country stunning in its landscape, climate, and culture, where tourism has barely altered its authenticity.
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip for October to visit Naples (6 nights) and the Amalfi Coast (5 nights). We’ve already got the historic center and the Lapis Museum in Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Procida, Sorrento, and Ravello on our list. Any suggestions, addresses, or tips?
Thanks for your help.
Hello,
We’re heading to Rome from 21/09, arriving in the early afternoon, and returning on 28/09, leaving in the morning. We’ve already booked our flight tickets and our accommodation in the city center: Via Ezio.
I’d love to get your feedback on our itinerary and if there are any visits we should book right now:
Monday 21 afternoon:
Largo di Torre Argentina: a sacred spot for cats.
Tuesday 22:
The Vatican: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in the morning. Afternoon: St. Peter’s Basilica, the dome, and if possible, the necropolis.
Wednesday 23:
Morning: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Afternoon: Trastevere neighborhood and the Monumento a Garibaldi.
Thursday 24:
Piazza Navona, Church of St. Louis of the French, the Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Venezia, Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, Trevi Fountain.
Friday 25:
Villa Borghese, Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps, Quirinale, Piazza della Repubblica, and Santa Maria degli Angeli.
Saturday 26:
Aventine and Testaccio neighborhoods, the Capuchin Crypt.
Sunday 27:
Ostia.
Monday 28:
Departure.
Are any days too packed, or should we add more visits?
Thanks for your input and help!
Cheers!
Anne
Hi there,
I’m looking for some great tips for a stay in Palma de Mallorca this summer.
I need cheap flights departing from Toulouse and affordable accommodation for 4 people.
What do you recommend?
Best regards,
I’d love to get your thoughts on the following itinerary (late May). I like to take my time in ruins and museums, and beaches don’t interest me. I’ll be staying in hostels and using public transport. Do you see any major omissions or things that aren’t worth it?
Thanks!
Day 1: Arrival in CATANIA
Day 2: Catania – visit (fish market, cathedral, Biscarri Palace, etc.)
Day 3: Mount Etna (day trip)
Day 4: Morning trip to TAORMINA, visit the town
Day 5: Alcantara Gorge (day trip) + more time in Taormina
Day 6: Trip to SYRACUSE, visit Ortigia
Day 7: Ortigia
Day 8: NOTO (day trip) (or another Baroque town?)
Day 9: Syracuse Archaeological Park + more time in Ortigia (or leave for Enna?)
Day 10: Transport via Enna? TO BE RESOLVED (long, 2 or 3 changes, limited accommodation in Enna...)
Day 11: AGRIGENTO: town and Scala dei Turchi (optional)
Day 12: Valley of the Temples + archaeological museum
Day 13: Departure for TRAPANI (4h), afternoon: town (+ salt flats?)
Day 14: Segesta (day trip) + town/Erice
Day 15: Monte Cofano Nature Reserve (hike + summit) (day trip)
Day 16: Zingaro Nature Park (coastal route out, ridge route back) (day trip)
Day 17: Departure for the AEGADIAN ISLANDS: Levanzo and Favignana (bike), overnight if possible
Day 18: Egadi Islands
Day 19: Departure for PALERMO + first visits
Day 20: The city
Day 21: The city (Monreale?)
Day 22: Options:
- Capo Gallo hike (3.5h round trip) (via Mondello)
- Cefalù (45 min by train)
Day 23: Return flight
