The best spots in Portugal for over 50s travellers

Portugal is home to some of Europe's most impressive natural vistas, sprawling hubs of Iberian culture and countless first-class resorts, but which areas stand out?

Portugal is a dream destination for seniors who are looking for an unforgettable trip. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating culture and friendly people, it's the perfect destination where you can both enjoy adventure and a spot of relaxation.

This delightful Iberian country really does have something for over 50s, with its beautiful scenery, delicious food and rich history, and it's no wonder that Portugal is quickly becoming one of the top travel destinations for older people. You can spend one day hitting the beaches, and the next, wandering through the ancient city streets. From sun, sea, to sights, here are some of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Five top picks for a Portuguese holiday

1. Porto

Offering the ideal introduction to Portugal, the country's second city, Porto, is one of the best places to holiday for newcomers and seasoned travellers alike. It's a beautiful city with a lot to offer. From its stunning views of the River Douro and the old city streets to its delicious wine and breathtaking sunsets, Porto is one of the best destinations to visit in Portugal for a city break.

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or just wish to explore the city's culture and history, over-50s travellers simply love a jaunt in this vibrant Portuguese port town. Primarily, it's the place for wine enthusiasts. With its rich history, stunning vineyards and unique cuisine, it's the perfect place to explore the world of wine tasting. The region produces some of the best wines in all of Europe, each with its own unique flavour and character. From the dry whites to the intense reds, there's something for every palate.

2. Sintra

With its pretty cobblestone streets and panoramic mountain views, the city of Sintra is a must-see destination for anyone after a Portuguese holiday with a difference. Located just outside of Lisbon, this exquisite resort town has served as a royal retreat thanks to its cooler climate and coastal views. Across its thousand-year history, Sintra has also become home to some of Portugal's most impressive palaces, colourful gardens and panoramic views.

While here, be sure to pay the National Palace of Peña, a pastel-coloured building set high in the mountains, and the Quinta de Regaleira a visit for an unforgettable introduction to the city's regal highlights. The National Palace of Sintra is another breathtaking highlight and overlooks the town's UNESCO-listed historical centre, making it one of the easiest landmarks to tick off your Portuguese wish-list.

3. Cascais

If beach holidays are more your speed, Cascais is one of the best choices. This elegant port town, nicknamed the 'Town of Kings and Fishermen', has served as both an upscale resort and maritime hub since the 14th century and showcases the best scenery on the Portuguese Riviera. From its breathtaking sand dunes to the crystal-clear waters, the beaches of Cascais are one-of-a-kind.

With year-round sunshine, it's no wonder why the Portuguese coastal town of Cascais has become the place to be for Brits abroad. The local cuisine is another major highlight in the region and is sure to keep you well-fuelled for your exploration. From sumptuous fish dishes to traditional street-food specialities, you can find it all in the town of Cascais.

4. The Douro Valley

If food and wine are high on your wish-list, look no further than the rolling hills of the Douro Valley. Home to some of Portugal's richest vineyards and several charming medieval towns, it's also the world's oldest officially defined wine region, having produced ever-popular vintages for more than 2,000 years. With that in mind, no tour of this delightful Portuguese haven would be complete without a tasting or two and there's no better place to do so than on one of the region's vineyards.

With its rolling hillside vistas, winding waterfront and scenic country roads, there's no shortage of ways to experience the Douro Valley and scenic journeys along the river are often just as impressive as more direct routes. Train enthusiasts can enjoy a number of truly spectacular heritage railways across the region, taking in lush farmland and quaint rural quintas (wine estates), and it's no surprise that the best views can be found on a river cruise. However you'd prefer to explore it, there's no denying that the idyllic Douro Valley is the ideal choice for a slower-paced escape.

5. The Algarve

When it comes to relaxation, and the slower-paced way of life that can only be found on Europe's southern shores, the Algarve stands out as one of the continent's finest spots. With its untamed coastline, which is most dramatic around Cape St. Vincent, the Algarve is also a region of striking natural beauty, which is the perfect backdrop to laid-back days spent in the sun. Whether you're sunbathing by the sea or taking a tour of the region's 40 premium golf courses, there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained either.

No trip to Portugal's south coast would be complete without venturing out to the bustling local towns that line its shores, either, and the likes of Faro, Tavira and Lagos offer the ideal introduction to everyday life in the region. Try fresh local seafood at Tavira's famous red-brick markets, soak up the magnificent Neoclassical architecture of the Algarve's historic capital, Faro, and embrace the rural charm of Lagos with a stop at a traditional tasca (tavern).

Discover the best of Portugal with Newmarket Holidays

Ready to make lifelong memories in Portugal? Our friendly holiday planners are on hand to help with any questions you might have and to get the ball rolling on your next dream European escape. Give them a call today or visit our Portugal page for more information on each of our featured itineraries. If your heart lies elsewhere, we also have a wide range of worldwide tours, across Asia, Africa, the Americas and Oceania, and you can view them all on our dedicated destinations page.