Portugal in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Portugal in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Duoro Valley vineyards without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Lisbon felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best Port wine I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

fado music was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.