Portugal holidays

Portugal is a beautiful country, known for its natural beauty, historic cities, and delicious seafood and wine.

Alongside 1,700km of golden coastline, you’ve got forests, mountains, vineyards and charming villages to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit in Portugal:

• Lisbon: One of the oldest cities in Europe, Portugal's capital, Lisbon is a must-visit for its rich history, afterdark scene, and beautiful beaches. From famous landmarks like the Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery to the vibrant nightlife in the Bairro Alto district, Lisbon is a vibrant and culturally rich metropolis.

• Porto: Porto is another popular city in Portugal, known for its wine, historic centre, and iconic bridges. A visit to Porto would not be complete without tasting its famous port wine.

• Algarve: The Algarve region in the south of Portugal is known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and picturesque coastal towns. The region is packed-full of hidden gems, and a popular destination for sun-seekers, surfers, and hikers. 

• Madeira: A lush, volcanic island off the coast of Portugal, known for its natural beauty and subtropical climate. Madeira is popular for its hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The best time of year to visit Portugal depends on what you want to see and do.

The weather in Portugal varies by season, but like most Mediterranean countries, you can expect to enjoy some of the warmest weather in Europe. The shoulder months, in spring and autumn, offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Sun worshippers, however, will want to head out over summer.

Here’s a handy rundown of what to expect from each season:

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit Portugal, especially in April and May when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. This is a great time to explore the historic cities and charming towns, visit the beaches, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C in the north and 12°C to 24°C in the south. The sea temperature is a refreshing 16°C to 17°C.

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak holiday season in Portugal, as the weather is hot and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor festivals and events. The beaches are busier, but it's still a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the lively atmosphere and nightlife. In the north, temperatures hover around 12°C to 22°C. While in the south you can expect averages of 18°C to 33°C. The sea temperature is a pleasant 19°C to 20°C.

• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Portugal, as the weather is still warm, and the crowds are smaller. It’s perfect for exploring the countryside, wandering the charming towns, and visiting the wineries. The average temperature in the north ranges from 11°C to 19°C and, in the south, 15°C to 25°C. On the warmest days, you can expect sea temperatures to reach 20°C, while they’re around 17°C on cooler days.

• Winter (December to February): Winter is the off-season in Portugal, but it's still a great time to visit if you don't mind the cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Ideal if you’re more into museums and galleries than beach life. In the north, the average temperatures range from 6°C to 14°C. In the south, the mercury hovers around 10°C to 18°C. Sea temperatures drop to a refreshing 17°C in December on warm days, and tend to drop to a 15°C in February.

• Beaches: Portugal has some of the most scenic beaches in Europe, especially in the Algarve region, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and cliff-backed sandy stretches like Praia De Marinha.

• Natural beauty: Portugal is home to a rich biodiversity and fascinating geology, with diverse landscapes, from mountains to forest and wetlands, unique rock formations, cliffs, caves and grottos. Some of the most popular spots include the nature reserves in Madeira, Algar Seco, the Madeira mountains, and Ria De Alvor. 

• History and culture: Portugal has a long maritime history and was a major player in the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries. Explore the ports and seafaring towns along the coast, such as Lagos, Cascais, and Portimão. Or visit the Maritime Museum in Lisbon. It’s also a deeply Catholic country with must-see religious sites like the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower in Lisbon, the Church of St Anthony in Lagos, and the Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima in central Portugal. Then there are the Moorish fortresses, such as the beautifully preserved castle in Silves.

• Seafood and wine: Portugal is home to world-renowned wine regions, including the Douro Valley, Alentejo, and Dão. If you love a tipple, booking a tasting or tour is a must. As a coastal country you can expect incredible seafood, like their traditional grilled sardines and salt cod. And there’s nothing better than tucking into a flaky, buttery Pastel de Nata (custard tart) with a good cup of coffee.

• Architecture: Portugal is famous for its colourful decorative tiles, also known as Azulejos. Explore the tile-covered streets of Porto's Ribeira neighbourhood, or make a trip to the National Tile Museum in Lisbon. Look out for Manueline architecture too - where maritime motifs like ropes, anchors and shells can be seen on the Jeronimos Monastery and the Belem Tower.

In general, Portugal is a very affordable holiday spot, especially compared to other Western countries. Accommodation, food, and transport costs are generally lower than in other popular European destinations like France, Italy, or Spain. Prices can be higher during peak season, typically from June to August, so it does depend on the time you visit. 

Here are some tips to help you save money:

• Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to October) when the weather is still warm, but prices are generally lower.

• Look for All Inclusive hotel packages, where your food, drinks and entertainment are part of your deal. Paying upfront means you can fill your boots without worrying about unanticipated expenses.

• Take advantage of the free attractions and activities such as visiting museums, exploring historic neighbourhoods, and hiking in the countryside.

• Eat like a local and avoid touristy restaurants by seeking out small cafes and local eateries.

• Use public transport or walk instead of renting a car or taking taxis, which can be expensive during peak holiday season.

Portugal is famous for its beaches thanks to its rich biodiversity. They’re also known for their safety and cleanliness which is why they're so popular with families.

Here are some of the top beaches on Portugal’s gorgeous Algarve coast:

• Praia da Rocha: This popular beach is known for its insta-worthy rock formations and clear turquoise water. Praia da Rocha is also home to a lively town and old sea fort overlooking the sea.

• Praia do Carvoeiro: This small fishing village is home to a secluded cove. Carvoeiro is loved by those seeking something a little quieter.

• Meia Praia, Lagos: One of the largest beaches in the region, Meia Praia is another peaceful spot, with a 4km stretch of golden sand, surrounded by cliffs and rolling hills. The waters are shallow and calm enough for a paddle with the kids 

• Ponta Da Piedade, Lagos: Known for its dramatic scenery, Ponta Da Piedade is a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers. You can take a boat trip to explore the hidden caves and grottos - only accessible by water.

• Praia Gale: A long wide beach, with calm water and a gentle slope, Praia Gale is a safe and enjoyable spot for children to play and swim. It's also surrounded by beautiful cliffs and dunes.

• Praia Da Coelha, near Albufeira: Situated in a sheltered cove, Praia Da Coelha is a popular destination for snorkelling and peaceful beach days. Its calm waters also make it another paddle-friendly spot for little ones.

The number of days you should spend in Portugal depends on what you want to do and where you want to go.

Portugal is a relatively small country, but it offers a wide range of attractions and activities that could keep you busy for weeks. 

Here are some suggestions to get you started:

• Lisbon: If you plan to visit Portugal's capital city, you could easily spend at least 3-4 days exploring the historic sites, museums, and cultural landmarks.

• Porto: There’s plenty to see in this UNESCO World Heritage site, so give yourself at least 2-3 days to explore the city centre, sample its famous port wine, and take a boat ride along the Douro River.

• Algarve: With all those beautiful beaches to relax on, lovely towns to visit and spectacular attractions, the Algarve is made for laid-back escapes lasting a minimum of 5-7 days 

Yes, English is widely spoken in Portugal, especially in major cities and popular resorts.

It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese to help you communicate with locals. Here are some basic phrases that you might find helpful:

• Olá! - Hello!

• Obrigado (if you're male) or obrigada (if you're female) - Thank you.

• Por favor - Please.

• Desculpe - Excuse me/Sorry.

• Sim - Yes.

• Não - No.

• Adeus - Goodbye.

• Bacalhau à bras: A dish made with salt cod, potatoes, onions, eggs, and olives.

• Caldo verde: A soup made with kale, potatoes, and sausage.

• Cataplana: A seafood stew made with clams, shrimp, and sometimes fish, cooked in a copper or steel clam-shaped pot.

• Pasteis de bacalhau: Fried codfish cakes that are a popular appetizer.

• Sardinhas assadas: Grilled sardines, a staple of Portuguese cuisine, especially during the summer months.

• Pastéis de nata: A custard tart with a crispy case that is a beloved Portuguese pastry.