Trapped, Museu do Oriente, Lisbon

Like most cities, Lisbon is steeped in history and even has an interactive museum dedicated to its story. While the Lisbon Story Centre certainly helps you understand the background to the enticing blend of old and new that shapes Portugal’s capital, it’s not one of the best Lisbon museums. There are many others thatRead More →

Lisbon seen from the river

I’m often asked about the best things to do in Lisbon, so I’ve drawn on my experiences of countless visits over the years to put together what’s actually worth your time – a mix of classic sights and a few under-the-radar favourites. One quick note before we start: I getRead More →

Best places to stay in Sintra Portugal. Best boutique hotels, Sintra guesthouses and other accommodation

Updated 4th February 2026 Looking for the best place to stay in Sintra? Whether you want a historic palace hotel, a quiet countryside retreat or somewhere walkable to the old town, choosing the right base makes a big difference to your visit. This guide focuses on well-rated, characterful hotels inRead More →

Cascais beach and waterfront buildings

I, along with many other people, love Cascais, and for good reason. This pretty coastal resort town is easy to get to by train from Lisbon and there are loads of things to see and do. If you want to spend a few days there, perhaps using it as aRead More →

Praça do Bocage, Setubal

There are loads of things to see and do in Setúbal and the surrounding area, so much so it’s worthwhile staying a few nights to make the most of the opportunity. This guide offers you my top tips for Setúbal hotels, guesthouses and apartments, from glamourous to quirky, unconventional toRead More →

Palácio da Pena, Sintra

The enchanting UNESCO World Heritage landscape of Sintra is an understandably popular destination. Although it’s less than an hour from Lisbon, it’s a world apart. We’re talking forested hills filled with fanciful palaces, romantic gardens, centuries-old castles and convents, all contained within a natural park fringed by beautiful beaches. InRead More →

Meat dish. Gourmet food at the Midori restaurant , Penha Longa Resort

Our golf travel expert, Andy Waple, has not only been enjoying his golf in Portugal but seeking out the best golf course restaurants that offer the most memorable cuisine dining experiences. Over to Andy… Most golfers I know put the quality of the course as their number one priority whenRead More →

Aerial view of Mafra Palace and the surrounding grounds.

Mafra Palace or Palácio Nacional de Mafra is certainly something to behold. Visitors to Portugal flock to Sintra to enjoy the delights of Pena Palace but they probably don’t realise that a mere 28 kilometres north of Lisbon there’s a far less touristy option. Mafra National Palace is home to oneRead More →