Portugal The Perfect Summer Getaway

There’s a reason why Portugal has been voted as the 'Best Tourist Destination in Europe' for the fifth time in a row in the World Travel Awards 2022, also known as the Oscars of tourism. The welcoming nature and the spirited culture of the Portuguese is felt instantly, as you travel through its beautiful cities and coastline. Aside from its natural and artistic allure, Portugal also enjoys an excellent reputation for being one of the world’s most globalised and peaceful nations.

[ by Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty ]

Centred at the confluence of routes coming from Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Portugal is a diverse, vibrant country: both geographically and culturally. Bordering Spain on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal has it all: from idyllic sandy beaches and snow-capped mountains to golden plains and buzzing metropolitan cities. Despite facing the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal’s climate is like most Mediterranean countries, enjoying days that are reliably sunny. The weather is hot in the summers and temperate in the winters. With autumns that feel like spring, Portugal is a popular tourist destination for people in search of winter sunshine. Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, rated one of Europe’s coolest cities, hangs in the balance between old and new, grand and charming, historic and modern. This city of duality has luxury stores, 17th Century monuments, and house music. It is a city truly teeming with life, full of character and colour. Known for its food, architecture, and nightlife, Lisbon boasts the sophistication of a great metropolis. Its stunning coastal geography is sensational, perfect for water sports, sunbathing, seafood, and scenic walks. In fact, the beaches in Lisbon often host national and international windsurfing and kite-surfing competitions. The city has a unique ‘vinho verde’ culture and the best way to experience it is to order some clams with white wine, and savour it at sunset. The magic of Lisbon is bewitching to all who experience it.

Just 30 minutes from the capital lies the beach town of Cascais. Known for its stunning bays, unparalleled beaches, and upscale restaurants, Cascais offers so much more. It has something for everyone: from its charming Sintra landscapes to its traditional commerce. Home to an entrepreneurial fishing community, Cascais’ harbour buzzes every morning as dozens of boats take to the sea and return with full nets. The fresh catch is sold at its 70-year-old market. Visitors can return in the evening to a town centre bustling with restaurants and bars. One of its prime tourist landmarks is the Boca do Inferno, which is a great spot to marvel at

Cascais’ scenic sunsets.

Stretching across the meandering Douro river, the district of Porto is known globally for its port wine cellars, medieval monuments, and cobblestone lanes. The delightful maze-like neighbourhoods, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and incredible culinary adventures will leave you in awe of Porto. Art aficionados will find heaven in Porto’s avant-garde architecture and parks strewn with sculptures. Also perfect for taking in the seaside atmosphere, this district is a place to discover small treasures and pockets of authentic Portuguese life.

Algarve has some indefinable quality about it which keeps you there forever. Its heavenly beaches, well-kept golf courses, and inspiring views make it worthy of mention. Algarve has the ability to wow its visitors and residents, whether it be through its picturesque fishing villages or in its sophisticated resorts. This spot adds one more feather to its cap in the form of its open-air nightclubs and bars. Home to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Algarve is a network of reefs, islands, and lagoons. This has created a diverse ecosystem for flora and fauna, including flamingos, foxes, and turtles. Algarve is dedicated to leisure and the art of living well and its eternal glamour is sure to strike you.

Madeira’s gently lapping turquoise sea is what makes it such an exciting region in Portugal. This island is known as the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic,’ and it unequivocally lives up to its name. Surrounded by dolphins and whales, Madeira is unforgettable. This island experiences an eternal spring, with flowers blooming everywhere. Its capital city, Funchal, is Madeira’s historic heart. Full of bars, restaurants, and shops, there is never a dull moment in this city. From here, a cable car will take you to one of the world’s most impressive botanical gardens: Monte Palace Gardens. Madeira also hosts a carnival and people visit from all over the globe to see traditional Samba troupes fill the streets of Funchal with dance and music. Madeira is also a paradise for hikers interested in exploring different landscapes. All in all, Madeira is an enthralling visit for people of all tastes. For Portugal, a rich centuries-long history, warm and hospitable people, and delicious food are just the opening credits of a chartbuster movie.

The welcoming nature and the spirited culture of the Portuguese is felt instantly, attracting tourists and immigrants alike. Aside from its natural and artistic allure, Portugal also enjoys an excellent reputation for being one of the world’s most globalised and peaceful nations. v