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Portugal is a gorgeous European country that attracts visitors from all across the globe with its sunny climate, World Heritage Sites, charming cities, pristine coastline, top-class golf courses, and vineyards. For such a small country, Portugal has a large choice of leisure attractions and experiences, and it’s less than a 3 hour flight from the UK, so it’s ideal for a short-haul getaway. Brightsun Travel has a great choice of holidays to Portugal from the UK.
Portugal is culturally diverse, especially when it comes to food; the country’s cuisine has a variety of European influences. Here you can sample signature dishes such as salted codfish, grilled meat, casseroles and Portuguese custard tarts. Portuguese wine is also worth noting; the country is renowned for its port wines, though its whites and reds are just as mouth-watering, especially when sampled at the wine region of Douro amidst a backdrop of lush vineyards and hillsides.
Holiday Inn Porto – Gaia
Tv. Salitre 7, 1269-066 Lisboa, Portugal
Aldeia da Falésia, 8200-593 Albufeira, Portugal
Rua Imperatriz D.ª Amélia, 9004-513 Funchal, Portugal
Rua do Pau de Bandeira 4, 1249-021 Lisboa, Portugal
The Algarve is a beautiful region in the southernmost part of Portugal, known for its stunning coastline and rich culture. This region attracts millions of tourists every year with its warm climate, picturesque beaches, and charming towns. The region offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including water sports, golfing, hiking up Mount Foia, and cultural experiences such as visiting historic sites and trying local cuisine. The Algarve is a popular destination for families, couples, and solo travellers alike, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests and budgets. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, the Algarve is sure to offer an unforgettable holiday experience.
Lisbon is the vibrant capital city of Portugal, located on the Atlantic coast in the western part of the country, on the banks of the Tagus River. It offers visitors a unique blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication. Lisbon is famous for its beautiful neighborhoods with narrow streets and colourful houses, as well as its iconic landmarks such as the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the Castle of Sao Jorge. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Lisbon, including exploring museums and galleries, dining in trendy restaurants and cafes, shopping in local markets, soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, or enjoying the nightlife scene. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or simply relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean climate, Lisbon is an ideal holiday destination.
Madeira is a stunning archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Portugal. Known for its year-round mild climate, lush vegetation, and breathtaking scenery, Madeira is a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. The island is famous for its hiking trails, levadas (irrigation channels), and natural parks, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the island's unique flora and fauna. Madeira is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, local wine, and traditional dishes. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, culture, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Madeira is an ideal holiday destination.
Currency: You’ll be spending Euros.
Language: The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.
Local Time: Same as GMT.
Flight Time from the UK: Approximately two-and-a-half to three hours from London.
Tourist Information: Visit the official Portugal tourist information site for lots of helpful information regarding upcoming events, where to go, what to do, and how to get around.
Health/Travel Restrictions: To travel to Portugal, British citizens need a valid passport. For up-to-date travel advice and health recommendations visit the government’s travel advice for Portugal.
A: No, you won’t need a visa to visit Portugal for less than 90 days.
A: Yes, it’s generally safe to drink tap water in Portugal.
A: There are no mandatory vaccinations for visiting Portugal.
A: Portugal is generally considered to be one of the least expensive holiday destinations in Western Europe.
A: Yes, Portugal is considered to be one of the safest places to visit with some of the lowest crime rates in the world.
The Algarve’s stunning coastline is one of the main draws, with picturesque beaches and hidden coves waiting to be explored. Water sports such as surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are popular, and visitors can take boat tours to spot dolphins and other marine life. Inland, visitors can hike or bike along scenic trails, explore charming villages and historic sites, and sample delicious local cuisine. Golf is also a major draw, with numerous world-class courses scattered throughout the region. For those seeking relaxation, the Algarve offers luxurious spas, hot springs, and peaceful retreats.
Lisbon is known for its historic landmarks, such as the iconic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, which offer a glimpse into Portugal's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the narrow cobblestone streets of the Alfama district, listen to traditional fado music, and sample delicious Portuguese cuisine in local restaurants and cafes. Other popular activities include riding the iconic yellow trams, visiting the lively markets and museums, and soaking up the sun on nearby beaches. Visitors can also take in breathtaking views of the city from the top of the São Jorge Castle or the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Lisbon is also a great base for day trips to nearby attractions like the charming town of Sintra or the coastal town of Cascais.
Madeira is a nature lover's paradise, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can explore the stunning natural parks, like the Laurissilva Forest or the Pico do Arieiro mountain peak, or take a scenic drive along the coastline to admire the views of the Atlantic Ocean. Madeira is also home to charming towns and villages, like Funchal, the capital city, where visitors can stroll through historic streets, visit museums and art galleries, and sample local cuisine at traditional restaurants. Adventure-seekers can enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and surfing, while those looking for relaxation can indulge in spa treatments or simply lounge on the beautiful beaches.
Generally, the summer months from June to September are the hottest and driest, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) in many areas. In contrast, the winter months from December to February are typically cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F) in many areas. Spring and autumn are pleasant with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making them a good time to visit for those who prefer cooler weather.
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