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Portugal is a destination of sunshine and blue skies, but even here there are days when the weather plays tricks. The rain arrives without warning, and there goes your plans for the beach, outdoor walks or that perfect evening on a terrace. But calm down! Nothing is lost. There's plenty to do without having to stay cooped up in your room watching Netflix (as tempting as that sounds).

If you're in one of the WOT units in the north, centre or south of the country and you've been caught out by a cloudy day, we've got several suggestions for turning a rainy day into a memorable experience. After all, Portugal is still incredible - even when you swap the sun for a few raindrops.

Let's start in the north! Porto has that special charm that goes perfectly with a rainy day. The wet cobbled streets, the smell of coffee coming from the pastry shops and the sound of rain hitting the roofs create a cosy atmosphere. Instead of hiding out, take the opportunity to explore the city in a different way!

☔Port wine cellars - If it's raining, there's nothing like taking refuge in a cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and tasting good wine while learning more about the history.

☔Livraria Lello - Rain outside, books and architecture inside. A must-see, even if it's just to soak up the magical atmosphere of this place.

☔Casa da Música - Why not make the most of the day by attending a concert or taking a guided tour of this architectural icon?

The centre of Portugal is known as a paradise for surfers and nature lovers, but when the weather doesn't cooperate, you have to change your plans. Fortunately, there's no shortage of alternatives for a day away from the rain.

So, on the West Coast, there's nothing like visiting:

☔National Museum of Resistance and Freedom - Perfect for immersing yourself in the region's history and learning more about Portugal's past.

☔ West Climbing Center - An indoor climbing centre in Peniche for climbers of all levels.

☔ Visit the Chapels of Ericeira - The Chapel of São Sebastião is well known for its typical Portuguese tiles.

In Lisbon and Sintra you also have several options:

☔ Lisbon Oceanarium - One of the best oceanariums in the world, where you can spend hours watching sharks, rays and tropical fish without worrying about what's going on outside.

☔ MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology - The building is incredible from the outside, but it's also worth a visit inside, with modern and interactive exhibitions.

☔Explore the Palaces in Sintra - The Pena Palace impresses with its colours and luxurious interiors, while the National Palace of Sintra enchants with its iconic tiles and emblematic chimneys.

The Algarve may be synonymous with beaches and heat, but don't worry, there's always an alternative plan to enjoy the day without needing an umbrella:

☔ Centro Ciência Viva de Lagos - Perfect for those who like interactive experiences and want to learn something new while sheltering from the rain.

☔Portimão Museum - An opportunity to discover more about the region's history, especially the Algarve's fishing tradition.

☔Spas and wellness centres - If there's no sun to relax on the beach, there are jacuzzis and massages for a moment of pure relaxation, such as the Soul Spa in Portimão or even the Almond Tree Wellness Spa in Albufeira.

Rain can spoil plans, but never fun! Portugal has so much to offer that a grey day can be the perfect excuse to discover places you might not have visited otherwise. Whether it's exploring museums, wine tasting or relaxing in a spa, there's always a way to turn a rainy day into a day full of memorable experiences with learning in between.

So if the weather doesn't cooperate, don't let it ruin your trip. Go out, discover new places and make the most of it - because at the end of the day, it's the stories you take with you that count (with or without rain!).