A Wonderful New Year's Eve Vacation on Madeira
The year-round mild climate and the famous New Year's Eve fireworks on Madeira convinced us to visit the "Flower Island." It sounded dull, yet we were pleasantly surprised. We spent nearly two weeks on this fabulous island in the middle of the Atlantic. Read the Madeira trip report.
Picturesque Porto — Portugal's Secret Capital
"Here, people don't live — they work," says an old Portuguese proverb about Porto, Portugal's second-largest city, also known as the "Capital of the North." Without a doubt, Porto is the country's productive heartland; this is where...read more
Photo: © Kai Hockenjos
The Perfect Day in ... Lisbon
Lisbon, once the wealthiest city in Europe, was reduced to rubble in just nine seconds by a devastating earthquake in 1755. Rebuilt under the Marquis of Pombal, the city presents itself today as a vibrant metropolis...
Photo: © Kai Hockenjos
There are many good reasons to spend your vacation in Portugal.
- Diverse landscapes: Portugal offers a wide range of scenery, from the stunning beaches of the Algarve to the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley and the breathtaking cliffs of the Azores and Madeira. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy.
- Rich history and culture: Portugal has a long and fascinating history reflected in its historic cities, castles, churches, and monuments. Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, and Evora are just a few examples of cities with a wealth of cultural heritage.
- Hospitable people: The Portuguese are known for their hospitality and warmth. Visitors often feel welcome and can easily connect with locals, leading to authentic and enriching experiences.
- Culinary delights: Portuguese cuisine is diverse and delicious. From fresh fish and seafood to hearty stews like Bacalhau and Feijoada — the traditional dishes offer a flavour experience not to be missed. Pair them with the famous Port wine from the Douro Valley.
- Sunshine and beaches: The Algarve is renowned for its stunning beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters. The pleasant climate makes Portugal an attractive destination for sun seekers.
- Activities and leisure: Whether surfing along the Atlantic coast, hiking in the mountains, or water sports on the Azores — Portugal offers a wealth of activities for the adventurous.
- Cultural events and festivals: Portugal has a vibrant cultural scene with music festivals, traditional fiestas, and events throughout the year. The Sao Joao festival in Porto or the Fado Festival in Lisbon are just two examples.
- Great value for money: Compared with many other Western European countries, Portugal often offers excellent value for money in both accommodation and cost of living.
- Sustainable tourism: Portugal is increasingly committed to sustainable tourism and environmentally friendly initiatives, making it an attractive destination for eco-conscious travellers.
- Easy accessibility: Portugal is well connected by air from many European cities, making travel straightforward. The Portuguese mainland is also easily reached by train, bus, or car.
All in all, Portugal offers a blend of history, culture, nature, culinary delights, and activities that make it a captivating vacation destination.
