Portugal has recently emerged as a sought-after destination, drawing the attention of numerous travelers from the United States. Many are discovering that this European gem, situated on the western edge of the continent, not only serves as the nearest gateway to Europe but also stands as one of the most captivating, beautiful, and historically rich destinations to explore. What’s even more enticing is the TAP Air Portugal Stopover program, which now allows travelers to extend their stay for up to ten days, essentially offering the opportunity to visit “for free” as an add-on before or after heading to another European destination.
The allure of this stopover program extends beyond North Americans traveling to Europe, as it encompasses a wide array of flights connecting Europe, including cities like London, South America, and Africa. In essence, if you’re traveling from any of the major cities served by TAP and book a flight that connects through Lisbon or Porto, you are likely eligible for the enticing TAP Stopover program, permitting you to enjoy a few nights in Lisbon, a weekend in Porto, or any other part of Portugal at no extra cost.
However, you may have questions or concerns. Perhaps you’ve heard mixed reviews about TAP, or you’re uncertain about how a stopover program functions. You might even be wondering if a stopover in Portugal is worth your time and what you can realistically accomplish during a two- or three-day visit.
In this comprehensive exploration, we will address these questions and delve into the TAP Air Portugal experience, with a special focus on their enticing new onboard menu crafted by some of the country’s finest chefs. Embarking on a journey to Portugal has just become even more delightful!
Is a TAP Stopover a Valuable Deal?
Considering that it is essentially a “free” addition to your journey, the answer might seem quite obvious. However, it’s essential to bear in mind that TAP’s stopover program does not include complimentary accommodations like some other airlines, such as Air Asana. Nonetheless, it provides excellent value for your money, especially if you’re eager to explore two countries for the price of one. This becomes particularly advantageous when you’re connecting between continents and are likely to embark on an extended vacation.
Keep in mind that while adding a stopover to your booking is cost-free, it may impact the overall cost of your flights, potentially increasing the price, depending on the dates you select. For instance, if you’re flying from JFK to London with a connecting stopover in Lisbon on the same day, the price for each leg of the journey may be $200. However, if you add a stopover, your onward flight could be scheduled for a different date, possibly on a popular Saturday, leading to an increase in the price for that segment. Despite this, in the grand scheme of things, this price variation is unlikely to significantly alter the overall deal.
Moreover, the TAP Portugal Stopover program has now been extended to accommodate stays of up to 10 days. It can be utilized on either leg of your journey (but not both), and notably, it can also be applied to one-way flights. When you arrange your stopover, you’ll have the option to book accommodations, receive discount cards, and arrange other tours directly within your booking. Some of the featured hotels, available via booking.com, reportedly offer special stopover discounts. However, if these discounts are not applicable, it may be advisable to book your hotel separately, granting you more control over this aspect of your stay.
Additionally, you become eligible for various experiential benefits, such as discounts on the Lisbon Card or Porto Card, along with numerous advantages at partner restaurants and similar establishments. It’s essential to note that the stopover destinations are limited to Lisbon and Porto, as TAP offers very few flights to the Algarve. Nevertheless, due to Portugal’s manageable size and the fairly robust train network, you can essentially enjoy your stopover in any part of the country. Should you choose to visit other Portuguese destinations like the Azores or Madeira Islands, you can benefit from a 25% discount on those additional flights through the TAP Portugal Stopover program.
What to Expect Onboard
Although I have not personally utilized the TAP stopover program – since I reside in Portugal – I have had the opportunity to fly with TAP on several occasions, primarily for European travel. During these journeys, I have consistently experienced great service. TAP’s cabins have always been clean, and the paid food, beverages, and, significantly, the wine, have been of high quality. The airline operates a fleet of modern Neos, characterized by efficient performance and contemporary cabin design. TAP is also recognized as one of the world’s safest airlines.
Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that the airline has faced its share of challenges in recent years, particularly in relation to flight cancellations and refunds. To be fair, these issues were largely driven by the global pandemic, and TAP was not the only airline affected. Strikes have also occasionally disrupted operations, but these occurrences are not unique to Portugal and have been prevalent in several countries. Some travelers have voiced complaints about Lisbon’s relatively small and somewhat outdated airport, although personal preferences vary, and many visitors appreciate its compact nature. One of the more frustrating aspects of dealing with TAP may be their website, which at times may require a bit of patience.
In terms of the in-flight experience for travelers in economy class on medium and long-haul flights, you can expect a service that aligns with many legacy carriers. However, TAP stands out in terms of the quality of its food and service, often surpassing that of its competitors. Luggage and meals are included in the advertised Basic price, while seat reservations come at an additional cost. Wi-Fi is available for purchase, with a complimentary two-hour connection exclusively for messaging apps.
Is Upgrading to Executive Class Worth It?
TAP’s Executive Class, which corresponds to Business Class (as the airline does not offer a First Class option), offers a significant upgrade in service, particularly appealing for long-haul travelers. It’s important to note that many of the perks associated with Executive Class may not extend to shorter connecting flights.
Executive Class passengers enjoy exclusive access to TAP or partner lounges, enhancing their pre-flight experience. Onboard, they can expect a host of additional amenities, including state-of-the-art Airbus aircraft with modernized cabins featuring new fabrics, soft lighting, and sound reduction measures. These upgrades are designed to provide a more comfortable environment, ideal for enjoying a restful night’s sleep in Reacro lie-flat seats designed in a true-bed style. The inclusion of duvets, rather than blankets, as standard, aligns TAP with competitors who prioritize passenger comfort. Executive Class passengers benefit from amenity kits, dedicated service, and a wider selection of wines, with the Portuguese wine selection typically standing out.
One of the most notable distinctions between standard and Executive Class on long-haul flights is the culinary experience, particularly now that some of Portugal’s top chefs have contributed to the menu.
Taste Portugal with the ‘Local Stars’ Menus by Top Chefs in Executive Class
Through a partnership with “The Art of Tasting Portugal,” the TAP Portugal Stopover program has elevated the onboard dining experience. This collaboration, known as “Local Stars,” features 12 renowned local chefs over a two-year period, running until April 2025. These chefs curate the menus for Executive Class long-haul flights, with a strong emphasis on their favorite local ingredients.
This partnership is a remarkable initiative that aligns with TAP’s existing focus on promoting local culture and products, such as the use of porcelain from renowned Portuguese producer Vista Alegre and the extensive selection of Portuguese wines and spirits available onboard.
I had the privilege of sampling the menu for July and August, crafted by Chef Noélia Jerónimo, who also serves as a judge on “Master Chef Portugal.” She is one of my favorite traditional chefs in Portugal. Chef Noélia’s menu pays homage to her region, particularly the protected Ria Formosa lagoon system, featuring the starring ingredient of polvo (octopus) from her hometown of Tavira/Santa Luzia. Having dined at her restaurant in the past, I can attest to the excellence of her dishes, and I am delighted that her delectable creations will serve as many passengers’ introduction to the flavors of Portugal. In September, another esteemed chef and region will take the culinary spotlight, and we eagerly anticipate this announcement.
Fortunately, you don’t need to fly with the TAP Portugal stopover program to experience the culinary prowess of the country’s chefs and cuisine. “The Art of Tasting Portugal” provides a platform that enables you to book unique and intimate culinary experiences upon your arrival in Portugal. Whether you desire an intimate private dining experience with the head chef of a Michelin-starred restaurant or wish to embark on a market tour with a local expert, “The Art of Tasting Portugal” team will assist you in crafting the perfect culinary journey within Portugal.
Where Does TAP Fly?
The TAP Portugal Stopover program covers a wide range of the airline’s medium and long-haul flight options, including select partner airlines. To determine if your flight route is eligible for the program, perform a flight search, and if the “add a stopover” option appears, you’re in luck. I tested various combinations, such as London to São Paulo, New York to Frankfurt, and Boston to Cape Verde, and the option popped up for all of them. However, it’s important to be flexible with your departure date, as some routes may not have daily connections.
Choosing Your Stopover Destination: Lisbon or Porto?
Deciding between Portugal’s two major cities, Lisbon and Porto, can be a delightful but challenging task. In fact, both cities offer unique and compelling reasons for a visit. If you have only a few days to spare, Lisbon is a fantastic choice for immersing yourself in Portuguese culture, and it’s likely the more convenient option for a Portugal stopover since it boasts a greater number of flights. Moreover, Lisbon and Porto are well-connected by a train journey of less than three hours, making it feasible to explore both cities even during a five-day stopover. If you opt for the full ten-day stopover, you’ll have the opportunity to traverse a substantial portion of Portugal, particularly if you decide to rent a car.
Here’s a recommended itinerary for a Portugal stopover, with one to three days allocated to each of the major cities:
Lisbon Stopover:
Day 1: Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll through the Alfama neighborhood, Lisbon’s oldest and most storied district. Savor fresh fish, perhaps a serving of sardines, for lunch, and then embark on a tram or train ride to the Belém district, where you can explore the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. Don’t forget to sample a Pastel de Belém from the original cafe. As the day winds down, watch the sunset from a miradouro (viewpoint) in Barrio Alto, where a vibrant nightlife scene awaits.
Day 2: Kick off the morning with a visit to a museum, either the National Museum of Azulejos, renowned for Portugal’s hand-painted tiles, or the exceptional collection at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Both museums offer unique insights, and if you have a penchant for art and history, they are worth exploring. In the afternoon, delve into Lisbon’s modern side with a street art tour. Conclude the day with sunset views across Lisbon in Graça, and for an authentic experience, consider taking the popular Tram 28 to reach your destination. Cap off the evening with dinner at one of the cozy, family-run restaurants nestled into the city’s hills.
Day 3: Venture beyond the city limits on a day trip to Sintra. Depart early to make the most of your time exploring the magnificent and whimsical palaces that define this enchanting destination. While it is possible to navigate Sintra independently, be aware that the uphill walk from the train station to the palaces can be quite challenging, so you may opt to rent a tuk-tuk for a convenient ride.
Porto Stopover:
Day 1: Immerse yourself in the historic Ribeira district, a picturesque area characterized by its narrow streets and steep slopes. Visit attractions such as the Palacio de Bolsa, Mercardo do Bolhao, and the Clerigos Tower. If you plan to explore the famous Livraria Lello (bookstore), consider booking tickets in advance, as it tends to be crowded. For dinner, make a reservation at one of Porto’s innovative new restaurants, as the city’s food scene has garnered significant attention, even from Michelin.
Day 2: For those with an affinity for museums, begin the day with a short journey to the Serralves Museum, an institution dedicated to modern art located in a wooded park. If you prefer the beach, head a little further to Foz do Douro. In the afternoon, cross the river to Gaia and visit one of the historic port lodges. Additionally, you can explore the WOW museum complex, with the ‘Wine Experience’ being a particularly impressive option.
Day 3: Set out on a captivating journey to the picturesque Douro wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its terraced vineyards and world-class wines. You can reach this destination by train, boat, or car, and there are various ways to plan your visit for an unforgettable experience. If you’re interested in exploring the Douro Valley from Porto, you can refer to my guide for tips on planning the best day trip to this remarkable region.
A Portugal stopover through TAP Air Portugal offers an exceptional opportunity to explore a beautiful and culturally rich country, all while enjoying the convenience and benefits of a top-tier airline. With diverse options for destinations, you can choose between the enchanting Lisbon and the charming Porto, or even venture beyond these cities to discover the captivating Portuguese islands. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Portugal’s diverse landscapes, historical treasures, and delectable cuisine promise an unforgettable experience during your stopover. Ultimately, a TAP Portugal stopover is an enticing way to make the most of your journey and create lasting memories in this captivating corner of Europe.
