Portugal Travel Guides

For holidays filled with sights, sand and sunshine, Portugal is hard to beat. It may be less visited than neighbouring Spain, but the country certainly isn't lacking when it comes to old world charm and fantastic experiences. With postcard-worthy vistas abound, this is a country full of colour. From the long stretches of golden sand and white-washed fishing villages to green rolling countryside and the meticulously hand-painted tiles adorning many of the country's buildings, Portugal's scenery is as inviting as its superb cuisine.

As one of the oldest countries in Europe, there is a wealth of fascinating history to explore across Portugal. From exquisite historical architecture and imposing monuments to fairytale-like palaces and impressively grand monasteries, there is evidence of Portugal's long past seemingly at every turn. This history comes to life in the country's rural regions, where locals use centuries-old traditions to make their own bread, cheese and wines. It's not all about the past, though. A pleasing blend of old and new, the country has a modern edge that provides it with a quaint yet cosmopolitan feel. Nowhere is this more visible than the country's vibrant capital city, Lisbon, where the old winding streets of the Alfama neighbourhood and the dramatic hilltop Castelo de Sao Jorge, or St George’s Castle, sit next to the plush designer boutiques of Avenida da Liberdade and the revamped waterfront area of Expo.

The country's 'second city', Porto, is equally full of charm. Home to riverside eateries, scenic boat rides and, of course, plenty of port wine lodges, it's another favourite destination for those visiting the country. Most Portugal holiday guides also recommend a visit to Sintra, and justifiably so. This former royal town boasts a number of picturesque palaces, villas and castles, with its breezy hillside location giving it a cooler climate than nearby Lisbon. If, on the other hand, its sunshine you're longing for, the stunning Algarve coast, with its cliffside beaches and turquoise waters, is the perfect place to soak up some rays.

If you're considering a holiday to this extraordinary country and are in need of a little inspiration, look no further. We've put together a number of Portugal holiday guides to provide you with everything you need to know for your next sun-filled getaway. Whether you're keen to explore the country's hidden villages or sip vinho verde in one of its cities, you'll find plenty of tips and ideas to start planning an incredible trip.