Guerin® Blog
Tourism in Portugal
Group travel: ideas, destinations in Portugal and planning tips
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Travelling with friends is about much more than choosing a destination, packing a bag and hitting the road. Group trips strengthen friendships, create lifelong memories, multiply the fun and also bring real benefits for mental health.
If you are thinking about organising a trip with friends, this guide will help you plan with greater clarity. It covers Portuguese destinations that work especially well for groups, practical organisation tips and the advantages of hiring a car to travel together with the flexibility this kind of experience requires.
Why are group trips always a good idea?
Travelling in a group means sharing moments, decisions, laughter and discoveries. There are also many benefits that go beyond what first comes to mind:
- Double the fun: experiences take on a whole new dimension when they are shared
- Shared costs: accommodation, fuel, car hire and activities become more affordable
- A personalised pace: the group decides where to stop, how long to stay and what to visit
- Mental health benefits: a break from routine, reduced stress and improved emotional wellbeing through social connection
When they are well planned, group trips strike a healthy balance between personal freedom and team spirit, and this is where choosing the right transport becomes essential.
Destinations in Portugal that are perfect for group travel
Portugal is a small but very diverse country and ideal for exploring together. To make planning easier, here are some suggestions organised by region.
The North: nature, history and great food
The North is ideal for groups who enjoy welcoming atmospheres, beautiful landscapes and generous tables.
- Gerês: walking trails, waterfalls, natural pools and rural houses ideal for group trips
- Porto and the Douro: an immersive experience with city life, wine, sightseeing, river cruises and viewpoints
- Guimarães and Braga: history, culture and excellent spots for a short group getaway
Groups who enjoy combining outdoor activities with urban culture will quickly feel at home in this region.
The Centre: city life, mountains and tradition
The Centre of Portugal is one of the most versatile regions for group travel.
- Coimbra: a combination of history, culture and academic life
- Serra da Estrela: perfect for groups who enjoy mountains, snow or hiking
- Village of Piódão: tranquillity, nature and accommodation designed for groups
This is an excellent choice for groups who want to slow down and enjoy quality time together.
The South: sun, beaches and relaxation
The South is always a safe choice for groups of friends looking for rest and enjoyment.
- Algarve: beaches, coastal trails and nightlife
- Costa Vicentina: wilder landscapes, ideal for groups seeking nature and authenticity
- Alentejo coast: peaceful beaches and large houses suitable for group stays
Travelling south with flexible schedules and easy transport makes a real difference to the overall experience.
Inland Portugal: group trips beyond the obvious
If the aim is to avoid the most crowded places, inland Portugal has plenty to offer.
- Monsaraz and Alqueva: star filled skies, wide open landscapes and maximum tranquillity
- Castelo Branco and Beira Baixa: culture, nature and excellent local gastronomy
- Trás-os-Montes: authenticity, historic villages and close contact with nature
These destinations are perfect for groups who value different and more intimate travel experiences.
How to plan a trip without complications
Organising a group trip can be challenging, but with good planning everything becomes easier.
- Decide on the type of trip, whether beach, nature, city or a mix of several styles.
- Choose the dates well in advance to secure better prices.
- Set a shared budget that feels comfortable for everyone.
- Create a flexible itinerary that leaves room for spontaneous decisions.
- Book the car early.
Hiring a car: the best option for group travel
For group trips, rent a car makes everything simpler. Instead of relying on public transport or inflexible tours, your group gains full control of the journey.
- Complete freedom: over schedules and routes
- Easy access: to more remote locations
- More comfort and space: for luggage and equipment
- A fully personalised experience
Guerin’s fleet offers solutions designed for different types of group travel.
Vans and minivans: Ford Transit Custom Kombi or similar
Ideal for larger groups. They offer nine seats, generous luggage space and comfort on longer journeys.
SUV: Nissan Qashqai or similar
A good option for medium sized groups, combining comfort with enough space for passengers and luggage.
Estate cars: Peugeot 308 SW or similar
Suit smaller groups, with a good size boot, efficient fuel consumption and comfort for long trips.
Extras that make a real difference on a trip with friends
When travelling in a group, small details can completely change the experience. For those who want to travel without worries, the Pack Platinum is the ideal choice. It brings together a range of benefits that provide peace of mind from the very beginning of the journey, allowing the group to focus entirely on enjoying the trip with confidence and flexibility.
Group travel is about creating stories that last forever
Group trips are built on shared moments, spontaneous decisions and unforgettable stories. With the right destination, a solid plan and the right car, travelling with friends becomes simpler, more flexible and more memorable. With Guerin, every group can create its own adventure, at its own pace, with complete freedom to explore every corner of Portugal.
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