Vacation in portugal where to go. Holidays in Portugal: sea, beaches, cities, beautiful places, hotels
The resorts of Portugal, one of the sunniest European countries, are uniquely colorful, with a pleasant climate and good environmental situation. Therefore, resorts in Portugal on the sea, in the mountains and near thermal springs so popular.
Coming to the resorts of Portugal on the Mediterranean Sea, you get a powerful energy boost, only positive emotions and a great mood. Sea resorts Portugal are famous good hotels with a high level of service, amazing wines and luxurious cuisine.
The southern resorts of Portugal are located in the province of Algarve, which stretches for one and a half hundred kilometers, which is famous for its variety of beaches - sandy, pebble and rocky. The most popular resorts of Portugal in the south are Portimão and Albufeya.
Want to splash in the ocean? There are more than enough resorts in Portugal on the ocean. After all, the length of the ocean coast in the country is almost 2 thousand kilometers. And you will definitely like the beaches of the so-called "Lisbon Riviera" - they are marked blue flag, velvety from the finest light sand, fresh from the breeze and caressed by a leisurely, crystal clear wave. Windsurfers, going on vacation in Portugal, choose resorts here - on the riviera. The most famous of these resorts is Guinshu, which hosts international competitions and championships.
If you list the beauty that Portugal is rich in, resorts on the ocean should be considered only the third part of the proposed beach holiday. Two more are sea and island resorts. What can Madeira be compared to? Her extinct volcanoes, small clean beaches, thickets of eucalyptus groves, in which to breathe, not breathe. What about Pico Island, beloved by divers? If you have been dreaming of an underwater journey in search of whales, dolphins and the treasures of sunken ships since childhood, you need to come here.
But Portugal is not limited to beach holidays; resort cities also offer treatment, including in thermal springs. There are a little over thirty of them in the country. Among the most famous is Chaves, discovered in ancient Roman times, its thermal waters help to get rid of problems with digestion, pressure, high blood sugar. There is also Geres, where bronchial asthma is treated.
The younger generation also likes Portugal, a youth resort in the mountains, like Vodafone Sky, is crowded all year round. In winter people go skiing and snowboarding, in summer they go in for paragliding.
For those who like Portugal, popular resorts will hospitably open their doors at any time of the year. Do you like sunny Portugal, resorts, the prices of which seem not so high? Welcome - any resort of your choice!
In the old days, almost all travels crowned with a great geographical discoveries, began off the coast of Portugal. Nowadays, the opposite is true - thousands of tourists come here every year to touch it. great history, to see with your own eyes the architectural splendor of the country and the natural diversity.
Nature of Portugal
The Portuguese simply cannot help but envy, because in their very small country countless natural wealth is concentrated. First, Portugal is located on the coast Atlantic Ocean, in the immediate vicinity of it, the Gulf Stream keeps its way, so in summer the ocean gives coolness, and in winter it warms with its warmth. Also in the north and northeast of the country there are mountains of incredible beauty, covered with centuries-old trees. Moreover, in Portugal there are a lot of forests with the richest flora. All sorts of flowers and exotic fruits grow here, which are not found anywhere else in the world. Even bananas and pineapples from the Portuguese islands, which are familiar to all of us, have unique taste qualities.
Holidays in Portugal
Climate
The climate of the country can be described as subtropical, it is greatly influenced by the ocean. The period from the beginning of summer to the end of September is considered especially comfortable for a beach holiday, there is little precipitation at this time, and the average daily temperature in the coastal regions is about +25 ° C, while in the central part of the country it can be several degrees higher. The winter here is very mild, with a lot of precipitation and average temperature about +11 °C. But the island part of Portugal can delight tourists with sun and warmth all year round, in particular, in Madeira, even in January, the air warms up to +18 ° C, and coastal waters - up to +16 ° C.
The beaches of Portugal
In general, for those who are aimed at a full-fledged beach holiday, it is better to go to the Algarve - resort region in the extreme south of Portugal, Madeira or the Azores. The Algarve is distinguished by its beaches, developed infrastructure, and, most importantly, excellent conditions for family vacation. Along with all kinds of bars, restaurants and nightclubs, there are a huge number of water parks and all kinds of children's attractions.
The Algarve is distinguished by its beaches, developed infrastructure, and, most importantly, excellent conditions for family holidays.
The Azores are separated by an ocean from mainland Portugal by a distance of almost one and a half thousand kilometers. If you want to briefly change the frantic rhythm of the metropolis with its traffic jams, deadlines and stresses, for a leisurely, easy vacation surrounded by almost wildlife, but with a consistently high level of service, you should definitely go there.
Since the end of the 15th century, Madeira has become a favorite vacation spot for almost all European monarchs. Today, all world celebrities come here to relax with their soul and body. Indeed, from the natural beauties of this island, literally, it takes your breath away. Primordial forests alternate with majestic mountains, at the foot of which the ocean quietly laps. In addition, there are probably no such luxurious hotels and SPA centers anywhere in the world.
Monasteries and castles
Fans of architectural sights will be delighted with the ancient monasteries, temples and numerous castles-fortresses of Portugal. Almost every city can boast of several unsurpassed monuments of past eras at once.
Gastronomy
Portugal is also beautiful place for gastronomic tourism, because the cuisine of this country is very original. The close proximity of the ocean could not but determine the predominance of fish dishes in the menu of the Portuguese, the main of which is cod in a special marinade (there are more than one hundred and fifty recipes for this marinade). Such salted fish is invariably served with boiled potatoes or eggs. There are relatively few meat dishes, but they are all incredibly tasty, because they are prepared with the addition of a huge amount of spices, marinades and sauces.
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In the Azores, you can taste truly unique meat, and the thing is that it is stewed over the steam of a natural hot spring. Rice is also often served with meat and fish; by the way, it is even used to prepare sweet dishes. In general, the local desserts deserve admiration. Be sure to try the world-famous Madeira wine and quality Portuguese beer.
The intricacies of travel
You can travel within the country both on a rented car and through a developed railway communication. It should be noted that it is better to buy a round-trip ticket at once, as in this case you may be given a small discount. In order to get from mainland Portugal to the Azores and Madeira, there are special flights. For a more comfortable and economical movement in the city, it is best to use travel cards for tourists, which are sold at kiosks at bus stops.
The entire population of the country communicates in Portuguese, but most people are fluent in English.
As a souvenir from Portugal, you can bring Madeira, porcelain dishes, handmade leather products and embroidery.
That journey to Portugal- what you need. This country is not yet on the list of the most visited vacation destinations, so there is no need to fear a massive influx of tourists.
Portugal is able to satisfy almost any request: here is delicious cuisine (both meat and sea), the possibility of beach and outdoor activities, excursion routes and curious sights, rich night life. But keep in mind that traveling to this country is not cheap. However, the impressions that Portugal gives from the days spent in it are worth it.
Climate here is soft, there are no strong fluctuations in temperature. Dry and sunny summer does not differ in heat, in mountainous areas the air usually warms up to a mark of 17 °. The winter months are cool and with frequent rains. Due to the current of the Gulf Stream, a maritime climate prevails in the north of the country. The water temperature in the south summer period can reach 22°.
Capital of Portugal - Lisbon. The city is famous for its architecture, an abundance of attractions. The list of main cities and resorts includes, for example: Braga, Setubal, Madeira.
The hotel service is top notch. Four and five star hotels predominate in the country. At the same time, the most popular are those that are located in ancient castles. However, they are not at all budget friendly. But you can also choose a hotel room in houses that are built in compliance with the environment. architectural style terrain. There is no all-inclusive option in Portuguese hotels.
Perhaps the indescribable pride of Portugal are the ancient castles, cathedrals, churches and palaces that have survived to this day. The so-called " religious center» country is the city of Braga. Now here is the residence of the bishop. Here is the main shrine of Portugal - the church of Bon Jesus do Monte, built in the 18th century.
The former capital of the country is ancient city Porto. It is here that the oldest Portuguese Botanical Garden and the Port Wine Museum, where you can also find cellars for storing this drink. Also in this place you can admire the houses built in the XIX-XX centuries, go on an exciting "journey" through the markets, look into wine cellars and take a walk in the coastal quarter of Ribeira.
In the current capital of Portugal, there is the longest urban bridge among all European ones. It bears the name Vasco da Gama. You should definitely look at the statue of Christ and the arch that connects Augusta Street and Commerce Square. By the way, it is this arch with its bas-reliefs and statues that is calling card cities.
Fatima is a favorite place for pilgrims. According to legend, it was here that the Virgin Mary revealed herself to the children. Therefore, this place attracts dozens of believers. Not far from Fatima is the city of Coimbra. On its territory you will find the remains of medieval fortress walls, you can also look at the monasteries of Cunventu de Santa Clara a Nova and Musteiro de Santa Clara.
In Portuguese cuisine popular destination is fish, but meat dishes are also presented. Here they cook mouth-watering things from cod, perch and other types of fish. A local delicacy in Madeira are dozens of dishes made from swordfish. But Portuguese cuisine also has many other seafood, spices and fruits. And, of course, the choice of wines in this place will delight lovers of such a drink. Port wine is considered a kind of visiting card of the country, it is used both as an aperitif and for dessert.
In Portugal, you can buy excellent quality clothes and shoes, gold jewelry and, of course, you should buy a couple of bottles of wine as a gift to friends and family.
The main souvenirs that are popular among tourists are: leather goods, traditional ceramics, hand-woven lace, eye-catching various embroidery. When going shopping, remember that on weekends many shops close as early as 13:00. But individual shopping centers with a rich selection of products that are located in resort areas keep their doors open until the night.
A trip to Portugal will leave everyone with only the most pleasant impressions and memories.
A varied landscape, grottoes, cozy bays, steep cliffs, sandy spits, raging ocean waves or a calm quiet breeze can be found on the beaches of Portugal. Also, no one will be indifferent to the many restaurants for every taste, rivers flowing into the ocean, an amazing underwater world, a stunning microclimate, magnificent landscapes that touch the soul, and the unusual colors of the rocks create a certain contrast between the mirror-clear water and the stunning blue sky.
The water is very clean, but it may seem a little unusually cool. Although this is not surprising, because ocean water can rarely be above 23 degrees. But such cool water is just what is so lacking on a sunny day, when the temperature can rise to 40 degrees.
As practice shows, most people have a positive attitude towards a beach holiday in Portugal, because even the air here is saturated with a different smell, special, peculiar only to these beaches, which causes an unforgettable experience. Combined with the stunning beauty of the landscape and the power of the ocean water, it's safe to say that the goal of having a great time and relaxing will be fulfilled.
Portugal - European country with very rich history. Even though it's on the map the globe it occupies a very small area, its tourist opportunities are great. This and a large number of resorts oriented to completely different audiences, beautiful cities with interesting sights. Great opportunities for eco-tourism.
Portugal has a well-developed transport network, so for those who want to travel around the country on their own, there will be no problems in movement. These are buses, Alfa express trains, which move passengers between cities in a short time. Another very pleasant thing in this country is the hospitality of the locals, who are always ready to meet halfway, help, and suggest. A feature of the mentality of citizens is politeness, goodwill, and the motto is to always smile in any situation. Therefore, it is always a pleasure to come to Portugal, most tourists who have visited this beautiful country come back here again.
Map of Portugal.
Resorts of Portugal and their features.
Algarve- the most popular and respectable resort in the southern part of Portugal. Most often, tourists choose it as a vacation. Here are the most luxurious beaches and clear water in the ocean compared to all of Europe. There are never strong waves in the Algarve, so lovers of calm swimming and families with children are here real paradise. The advantage of the resort is its excellent climate, there is no strong heat here. In the Algarve, tourists will find a large selection of hotels from the simplest to luxury.
This place is perfect for families with children of all ages. The beaches in the Algarve are sandy, where many are equipped with playgrounds. The rich infrastructure of the resort will offer a lot of entertainment such as water parks, boat trips, bullfighting, show of marine animals, shark hunting, hiking, grottoes, ancient fortresses, the opportunity to visit countries such as Spain and Morocco.
Coast of the Algarve.
Madeira Island- very interesting place perfect for relaxing active tourists who love to learn something new. And also for sports lovers, such as: paragliding, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, tennis. Also in Madeira you can go surfing, scuba diving, fishing, as well as ride a water skiing. There are practically no isolated beaches on the island of Madeira, almost everywhere there are rocky shores, and the depth begins directly from the shore. Therefore, most hotels have pools with sea water. Madeira perfect place for hiking, there is a rich potential in terms of nature, mountains, waterfalls, all kinds of caves, narrow paths along panoramic cliffs. Going here even in summer, if you plan to climb up, take a warm sweater with you.
Madeira Island.
Lisbon - Lisbon Riviera- tourists love to relax in this place, there are several resorts related to the Riviera, but Cascais and Estoril are considered the best. Here are the luxurious sandy beaches with clean sea water. A large number of restaurants for every taste and budget, hotels of any star rating. Young people love to visit these places, as the nightlife here is very active. In Lisbon itself, the capital of Portugal, I do not advise you to stop, it is better to visit it during the tour. The city is large, crowded, in the midst of summer there is definitely nothing to do here.
Lisbon.
Lisbon Riviera.
Azores - recent times they have become popular with tourists, while the truth is with European ones. Rest here is exceptionally quiet and peaceful. The Azores are made up of 9 islands. Here you can also go diving, watch dolphins and sperm whales. Teysera Island is famous for its natural, healing geysers, there are ancient forts and castles. Pico Island attracts tourists with its volcano (height 2350 meters), as well as the presence of ancient churches of historical value.
The Azores is a quality beach holiday mixed with eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
Portugal is located in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula. The country with the richest historical heritage, fine wines, excellent cuisine, temperate gentle climate and first-class beach resorts.
Although Portugal is considered a year-round resort, lovers of conquering the depths of the Atlantic will not be comfortable everywhere. On the west coast the water warms up to only +18, which means that swimming here is an "amateur". At south coast the water temperature rises to +25, which is very suitable for swimming.
That is why the best resort towns focused on south coast, as well as the Madeira archipelago and the Azores.
The Algarve is a province located in the very south of the country. The capital of Faro is the most Big city in the area and is often used by travelers as the main starting point for excursions in the south of the country.
Its history as a resort begins only a few decades ago. Although even the ancient Romans appreciated the nature and climate of this territory, and built their luxurious villas here. At the end of the twentieth century, the British “decided” to make the Algarve their most ecologically clean resort. It is thanks to this attention that the tourism business began to develop by leaps and bounds here.
In fact, the rest here is really good. The mountains located in the north protect the whole area from cold winds, and the warm Atlantic current creates a mild and unique climate. Summer here lasts from April to November, and the temperature is + 23-28 degrees. Amazing and unique fauna will not leave any heart indifferent. The hills on the horizon are densely covered with orange and almond trees, and the small bays are surrounded by picturesque cliffs. The eastern part is famous for its excellent fine sand, and the western part surprises with rocky beaches that are insane in their beauty.
The main resorts of the Algarve are Albufeira, Monte Gordo, Vilamoura and many others no less cozy and comfortable.
Each of these towns is original and truly divine in its own way, you choose.
Infrastructure
Everything is arranged for the guests. Equipped beaches for parties, for nudists and for people with handicapped. There are also deserted wild corners on the coast, for a secluded "relaxation". There is only nature and you.
A huge number of all kinds of entertainment for any guest. There are also shops, bars, restaurants, clubs and casinos.
Those who like to spend time actively can hunt sharks, learn to scuba dive, go sailing or surfing, sail on a boat or a luxury yacht.
There is also a golf club where you can play all year round.
Many people think that "holidays" are only for those who have a "Swiss bank" account. However, this is not the case. Indeed, you can choose an exclusive complex where everything is equipped according to upper class And the prices here are really not small. Again, at your service there are many three-star hotels with fairly reasonable prices and the practice of renting housing for youth groups has been developed.
Branched road systems allow you to quickly get to any desired point. Many excursions different directions offer visitors a variety of travel agencies. No one will be bored here.
How to get there
You can fly to the Algarve from Moscow by charter, which follows to Faro. You can take a flight to Lisbon, and from there or domestic airlines to Faro, or four hours by bus.
You can see the current flight prices below:
Cost of living
The map below shows hotels in the Algarve region with accommodation prices. The numbers indicate the number of hotels near the label. When the map is enlarged, the prices become visible:
Azores
The Azores is an archipelago located 1500 kilometers from the European coast, which is an autonomous region. They are of volcanic origin and consist of three main groups and many smaller ones that are mostly uninhabited.
In the central part there are Pico, Sao Jorge, Graciosa, Terceirai Faial. To the east belong Santa Maria and San Miguel. To the west are Corvo and Florish. All of them are covered with lush greenery, for which they received the name " Green Islands". There are researchers who claim that the "Azores" are only small peaks of the mountains of the lost Atlantis, which once went to the bottom of the ocean. However, this claim has not yet received official recognition.
Each small "piece of land" will offer tourists its own unique beauty and entertainment.
San Miguel boasts an abundance of thermal springs, forests, emerald valleys and volcanic lakes. Some of the most magnificent pineapple plantations are located here. And in the Furnas Valley you will be offered to taste the national roast of meat and vegetables cooked in hot volcanic earth. Fans of active pursuits can take walks in national park, which mixed plants of tropical and northern countries, or watch funny dolphins and graceful whales. Try golf, tennis and diving.
Faial is famous for its numerous historical sights and the marina. Sailing and fishing are developed here. Numerous grottoes, caves and craters are amazing.
Santa Maria is ideal for those who love water sports. The entire coast is indented with numerous coves, forming the most beautiful and comfortable beaches for swimming.
Pico is all about contrasts and crazy landscapes. This mountain seemed to have grown from the depths of the ocean and reached out to the very clouds. The houses of the indigenous population are built of dark volcanic lava and buried in huge hydrangea bushes and grapes.
Infrastructure
Here you will not find a variety of restaurants, cafes and a fun nightlife, but in terms of fantastic landscapes, few places on earth can be compared with these amazing land lost in the depths of the ocean. Although there are no "palaces-hotels", but high-class service, moderate warm climate, and a lot of interesting entertainment events will make your vacation unforgettable and comfortable.
The Azores, with their amazing landscapes and stunning landscapes, fascinate and attract tourists who are tired of the crazy rhythm of life, the bustle of the city and want to be alone with nature.
How to get there
The cost of living on the islands
To understand the prices in the region, let's take two islands. The rest you can see using the maps below on your own:
Terceira Island:
San Miguel Island:
Madeira Island
A few hundred kilometers from the coast of Portugal and 700 km from hot Africa, there is a kind of reserve and the most "ancient" and popular resort, "Island of flowers and eternal spring» - Madeira. It is the very peak of a huge six-kilometer volcano covered with a lush carpet of flowers and green vegetation. The season for tourists here lasts all year round.
Due to the fact that the island is “caressed” by the warm current of the Gulf Stream and cooled by the waters of the Atlantic in summer, a warm subtropical climate prevails here. In summer, the air temperature rises to + 30, and ocean waters warm up to + 25 degrees. In winter, there are often storms and temperature changes, but still it stays at a comfortable level of + 20 degrees for relaxation.
The richest flora is striking in its diversity. Bamboo thickets, mysterious giant fern groves, graceful cypress forests and a huge number of flowers will delight your eyes. The fauna is not so diverse. Here you can meet only waterfowl and nimble hares.
The unique beaches are formed from solidified lava and look like giant "baths" that are protected from the ocean by natural partitions. Ocean waves periodically flow smoothly through these fences.
Infrastructure
In Madeira you will find a huge selection of hotels in different areas and different levels. The most luxurious are located in Funchal near the Atlantic Ocean. They have the appropriate infrastructure, entertainment centers, a large number of bars, restaurants and cafes. You can also stay in the "hotel-estate", which are far from Fushala and are quite expensive. But exotic vacation in the former houses of the representative nobility of past times, it's really worth it. Quality service, divine environment and stunning views will be a great bonus on your vacation.
For lovers of solitude, hotels are offered that are as close as possible to the unique nature, but you will have to get to them by taxi.
For adherents active travel organized a lot of hiking through the amazing and colorful "back streets". For the most part, the path runs parallel to water channels dug in the distant fifteenth century. All year round, ringing streams descend along them from insanely beautiful mountain peaks, above which majestic eagles soar, and water cane plantations and wheat fields.
The main strip of the coast is a very steep rocky cliff, so the beaches are equipped in suitable places. It has everything you need for a civilized holiday. Comfortable modern sunbeds, changing cabins and clean toilets. Lifeguards are constantly on duty, who tirelessly monitor the swimmers.
If you are drawn to city life again, you can walk to Funchal and admire its tiny houses and chic palaces. Numerous museums, modern art galleries, cozy bars and a colorful market will bring you back to the bustling city life.
How to get there
Madeira Airport is located eighteen kilometers from Funchal, which can be reached by regular bus or take a taxi. The journey will take about 20 minutes. To fly to this airport, you can use flights with transfers in London and Vienna. But it is better to fly to Lisbon and then to Funchal by domestic airlines. There is no direct flight from Russia.
How much does it cost to stay on the island
Prices will show the map below when choosing the area of residence:
Lisbon Riviera
The Lisbon Riviera is for the sophisticated and capricious traveler. Being very close to the capital of the country, but possessing beautiful nature and all the benefits of civilization, it has attracted crowned persons and elected aristocracy since ancient times.
It has everything you need for a wonderful pastime. The boundless expanses of the Atlantic Ocean, the finest velvety sand, ample opportunities for any active pursuits, gourmet cuisine for any gourmet and many hotels of different categories will definitely “catch in their nets” those who make a choice for a voyage.
Numerous towns and villages located throughout coastline beautiful and unique in their architecture and living conditions.
Estoril is a port city, which is located in the bay of Cascais and is washed by the gentle Atlantic waves. Quiet luxurious beaches, all kinds of entertainment and heady clean air attract many who want to have a luxurious rest. A favorite place of the nobility, including the English Queen Elizabeth I, offers all the amenities for a comfortable stay here.
Carcavelos is the real birthplace of Portuguese surfing, which began to develop there back in the sixties of the twentieth century. This town is a burning mixture of ancient streets with incredible architecture and state-of-the-art sports facilities. It is also famous for its excellent dry wines, which are made from nine varieties of wonderful grapes.
Infrastructure
In all corners Lisbon Riviera excellent roads, many hotels of various price categories, wonderful restaurants and cafes, and unlimited conditions for a varied holiday. All this makes the Lisbon Riviera a real "pearl" of resort life.
How to get there
We fly to Lisbon, travel time is four hours and thirty minutes. Then you can take a taxi, the cost of which is 60-80 euros. Or get to the Orient metro station, and then transfer to shuttle bus to Caparico.
Cost of living
The cost of accommodation for tourists in the hotels of the Lisbon Riviera can be viewed on the map below:
Have a great holiday in beautiful Portugal!
