For a small country Portugal offers a diversity of holiday choices with immensely varied regions. Occupying the southwest part of the Iberian peninsula, Portugal shares borders in the north and east with Spain while to the south and west lies the Atlantic Ocean. Most holidays in Portugal include a trip to the country’s rocky coastline with its beautiful sandy beaches and coves. Beyond these resorts though lie a country well suited to touring. Portugal has unchanged countryside, sophisticated cities and country towns rich in history with strong traditions. Portugal’s interesting choice of accommodation suits all budgets and includes Pousadas, a network of converted historical buildings and bespoke establishments, and Quintas which are traditional manor houses. The hospitality they offer reflects the style and traditions of all the regions. The popular Algarve coast in the south is well known for its many hotels, villas and sports complexes and is ideal for a Portugal beach holiday.
Well looked after beaches with good facilities
Year-round warm temperatures in the Algarve
Family friendly holidays
Outdoor activities particularly riding and water sports
Top class golf courses
Villa holidays
Over-priced seafood in restaurants
Golf in the heat of a summer’s afternoon – you’ll need to book in advance for early tee-times
Portugal is a full member of the EU (European Union). EU citizens do not need a visa to stay for up to three months and offers free reciprocal health agreements with other EU states (holiday health insurance is recommended though).
Temperatures across the whole of Portugal in summer are around 30°C/86°F with the north being a few degrees cooler and the south a few degrees hotter. Winters are mild, around 15°C/58°F in central and south-east Portugal. In the far north snow is common along the mountainous border area in January and February and rainfall can be heavy between November to March.
Flights to Faro in the Algarve take just over three hours from the UK, Lisbon takes two and half hours.
Traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. Roads may have up to three different numbers; a road with an E (Estrada European) indicates it is also a direct international route. Tolls are payable on motorways and on Lisbon's bridges.