Some of the best examples of Portuguese architecture can be found in its stunning palaces. They are known for their grandeur and beauty, with several having been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Many of the palaces in Portugal are influenced by a range of styles; an eclectic mixture from Neo-ManuelineRead More →
The heartbreaking tale of Pedro and Inês, Portugal’s famously ill-fated lovers inspired me to visit Alcobaça, a pretty town in the Silver Coast of Central Portugal. The theme of love is a strong part of Alcobaça’s identity and you’ll see it reflected throughout the town, which is also known forRead More →
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 →
You can see quite a lot of the country without a car on this 2-week Portugal itinerary. The focus for this Portugal trip is on the areas around and in between Lisbon and Porto and there’s plenty of variety including some off the beaten track highlights as well as theRead More →
One thing you need to know about getting around Porto is that it’s hilly. Fascinating and beautiful too, but be prepared for some steep slopes and steps. Maps don’t show where these sneaky inclines are so unless you’re very familiar with the city, your sightseeing route could easily involve anRead More →
Tacky tourist traps make me want to run screaming back to the countryside. Thankfully, Tavira has managed to avoid such horrors despite being in the Algarve, i.e. Portugal’s most popular region for tourists and expats. Although unspoilt and decidedly laid back, there are still plenty of things to do in Tavira.Read More →
The Douro valley in northern Portugal has more than just the perfect climate and soil for cultivating grapes and a wine-producing culture that dates back centuries. The undulating curves of the Douro wine region’s hillsides create a beautiful and dramatic landscape which changes with the seasons and is so specialRead More →
When thinking about things to do in Ericeira, a small coastal town just 35km northwest of Lisbon, what immediately comes to mind are surfing and beaches. However, although Ericeira has the distinction of being Europe’s first world surfing reserve and surfers travel from far and wide to enjoy the wavesRead More →
When planning a trip to Portugal, many people look at Lisbon and see that the second largest city, Porto, doesn’t seem very far away. In fact, the distance from Lisbon to Porto is 197 miles by car, 170 if you fly, although that’s not the best way to travel fromRead More →