Located along the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal faces out across the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Millennia of ocean waters lapping against its shores have created an array of spectacular coastlines that would amaze even the most seasoned sun-seeker. Top of these are the beautiful beaches of the Algarve in the south, where sparkling waters caress stretches of white sand, rugged rocks and idyllic coves. The region also lays claim to a number of other features that have helped to make Portugal the tourist hot spot it is today. Golf is one of these, with thousands of enthusiasts flocking to Algarve hotels each year to test out the region's championship courses. Wine is another, and when coupled with the delectable sea food offered up by the Atlantic each day it is an ideal companion to the perfect meal. While there's plenty to rave about in the south, Portugal's west coast and northern regions should not be underestimated. The country's capital, Lisbon, offers a quaint and relaxed setting in which visitors can experience Portuguese life past and present. There's plenty to keep the culturally minded entertained both here and along the rest of the west coast, whether it's visiting the Roman influenced Porto in the north or the magical town of Sintra – home to one of Portugal's many UNESCO world heritage sites. Meanwhile, sports lovers are catered for across the country with numerous activities, ranging from horse riding and trekking, to sailing, surfing and kayaking.
Our Portugal hotels are ready and waiting to welcome you and ensure you experience the very best this beautiful country has to offer.
Fact file
Language: Portuguese
Capital: Lisbon
Currency: Euro
Religion: Majority of the population is Roman Catholic
Time difference: GMT +0 hours
Things to do in Portugal
Soak up the culture in Lisbon
Portugal's laid back capital, Lisbon, offers meandering backstreets and attractive plazas overlooked by the Gothic facades of towering cathedrals. Visit a pavement cafe or bar to enjoy some traditional food and �fado' music or take a trip around the city on a yellow tram for a unique taste of everyday Portuguese life.
Relax in the enchanting Algarve
Pretty fishing ports, delicious wine, over 20 championship golf courses and the best beaches in Portugal await visitors to the Algarve. Situated along the south coast this region benefits from excellent weather all year round, making it a particularly popular tourist choice. The history, stunning scenery and many cultural and sporting attractions accessible through a wide variety of Algarve hotels that never fail to keep people coming back again and again. Karting, water parks, Jeep safaris and dolphin watching are just some of the extra activities on offer to keep you entertained.
Adventure into Peneda Geres national park
Peneda Geres holds the privileged position of being the official national park of Portugal. With its incredible landscape of lush forests, majestic peaks and winding rivers, the park offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in nature, explore its traditional stone villages and learn more about the many protected species living there, including the wolf and royal eagle.
Explore the magical town of Sintra
Travelling north along the Estoril Coast from Lisbon leads to the beautiful mountainous region that is Sintra. A UNESCO world heritage site, this picturesque town transports visitors back in time with its romantic 16th century streets and fairytale castle on the hillside. For the perfect base from which to explore this area take a look at our Lisbon and coast hotels.
Why not try...
• Enjoying an evening of traditional �fado' music performed at a specialist bar in Lisbon or Coimbra
• Testing your skills on the water with surfing in the Algarve – or head to the coast near Lisbon for a more challenging experienc