Portugal is an ideal destination for friends, honeymooners, couples and young families seeking a trendy luxury holiday. If you’re holidaying in Portugal this year, let us help you seek out the best the country has to offer.
Head South
If it’s hip and luxurious places you’re after, you’ll find them in Lisbon and the southern half of the country. Porto, in the north, has seen regeneration in recent years, but while there is definitely a growing buzz about nightlife in the north, if you are looking for sun, sand and luxury, you’ll probably want to head south.
The Best Beaches
The beaches in Portugal are arguably the best in Europe. Promoted by Portugal’s Tourist Board as ‘Europe’s West Coast’, the country’s spectacular sandy beaches stretch from the Douro Valley to the idyllic Algarve.
Visit in the summer months and you can expect to enjoy warm sunshine and little rain, especially if you base yourself in the Algarve. Being so compact, it is possible to explore many of the country’s best beaches and wonderful scenery, without needing to check in and out of different hotels. Enjoy the warm waters of the Algarve in the area’s most luxurious beachfront accommodation, or explore the vast unspoilt beaches of the rugged Alentejo region by car or organised excursion.
Balaia
Balaia offers an exciting mix of fabulous restaurants, cosmopolitan bars and stylish clubs in a charming setting amongst whitewashed buildings and terracotta roofs, within easy reach of the bright lights of Albufeira.
Local specialities include Feijoada, a pork and bean stew and Caldeirada, a fish stew.
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| Feijoada |
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| Caldeirada |
Grilled fish is also excellent in the area and you will want to sample the local aguardiente, a fiery drink made from the berries of the arbutus tree, as well as the best Portuguese wine.
As premier golf destination, one of Europe’s most spectacular courses is less than an hour away and you can also enjoy a day windsurfing or horse-riding.
Lisbon and Évora
The captivating Lisbon, Europe’s second-oldest capital, is an essential stop on any tour. Take a vintage tram through the city to uncover its majestic beauty and rich heritage and enjoy a magnificent vista from a hilltop viewpoint. Or just sip a coffee and watch the world go by in one of the city’s many hip cafes.
The impressive city of Évora, with its Roman temple, medieval walls and Moorish alleys, also makes for an exciting day trip.
Local Events
In the cities and by the beach, you’ll find there is loads going on, with events and exhibitions of art, film, music and dance regularly held. Check local listings to ensure you get to enjoy all that Portugal has to offer.
