While no longer the best-kept secret in the Iberia Peninsula, Portugal still offers the kind of escape that made it so popular in the first place. Even if you’re staying at one of this charming country’s most popular resorts, you’re never further than a short walk through the countryside away from the feeling of discovery, at one of the multitude of rarely visited places just off the tourist trail.
Portugal has a somewhat old-fashioned feel about it – it’s dominated by a somewhat medieval charm (with castles to boot) and a vast coastline strewn with the kind of picture perfect villages you see on postcards. Throw in some pristine beaches, rolling hillsides blanketed with flowers and a climate blessed with sunshine, and it’s not hard to see why so many have made Portugal their second home.
By the Sea
Most visitors come to Portugal for its beaches and nothing else. And why not? Its dramatic cliffs, protected coves and sandy beaches have long enticed visitors from the rest of Europe. The Algarve is the epitome of the package holiday, choc-a-block with families from across the continent eagerly soaking up the sun and splashing in the sea. And with sun-kissed resorts such as Sagres and Cascais offering the kind of hedonistic pleasures that the rest of us dream about, Portugal’s appeal is as strong as they come.
And we must not forget its two world famous cities; Lisbon, the capital, and Porto, home of the country’s most famous export – wine. Both cities, despite modernization, have retained their old world authenticity, with their cobblestone streets, riverside views and architectural treasures on every corner.
And Island Paradises Too
Lastly, we shouldn’t forget that Portugal also includes Madeira and the Azores. Although these are located more than one thousand kilometers from the continent and maintain some independence, these two islands remain very much Portuguese. Their volcanic landscapes and lush vegetation are a totally different face of Portugal, yet equally appealing in their own way.
No matter what your vision of Portugal has been, a visit will always enhance anyone’s vision of this marvelous place. If ever there were a land where tourists should flock, the first time visitor will surely wonder just how they ever missed this jewel. Paradise found, in many ways, is spelled Portugal.
Budget for one week: More than 500 Euro ($750)
Taxes and gratuities: Gratuity is recommended
Local currency: Euro
Spoken language and/or official language: Portuguese
Area: 92,090 km2 (35,645 sq mi)
Population: 10,647,763
Sanitary requirements: You can drink tap water throughout most of Portugal
Major cities: Lisbon, Leiria, Santarém, Setúbal, Beja, and Faro.
Main images, Ljupco Smokovski - Fotolia.com; and Wikipedia
Report an error
Pick from among 21 holiday destinations in Portugal.
Compare 799 reviewed hotels and guest houses in Portugal before booking your holiday.
Most popular holiday destinations in Portugal
Holiday destinations in regions of Portugal
If your destination is not listed, you will find a complete list of regions in Portugal in alphabetical order below.
