With a 1,800-kilometre-long coastline, one thing is already clear before you arrive: Portugal has countless dream beaches! Discover not only the most beautiful beaches in the country during your beach holiday in Portugal, but also get to know the country, old traditions and Portuguese cuisine. An unforgettable travel adventure lies ahead of you – what are you waiting for?
Round trip Portugal
At the western end of the Iberian Peninsula lies Portugal. Founded in the 12th century, the kingdom is located on the Atlantic Ocean. In the 15th century, Portugal was one of the most powerful colonial empires in the world. Until the middle of the 17th century, the Kingdom of Portugal included possessions in South America, Asia and Africa. In the early 20th century, the kingdom finally fell: after a military coup, Portugal became a republic. However, the country slipped into an authoritarian dictatorship. In 1974, the Carnation Revolution opened the way to democracy. Portugal joined the European Community in 1986. Today, tourism is one of the country’s most important sources of income. Every year, 17 million people visit the Western European country. This makes Portugal one of the most visited countries in the world!
Beach holiday in the Algarve
The Algarve is the most popular holiday region in Portugal. This is not only due to the many dream beaches that the region offers visitors, but also to many typical accommodations and the hospitality of the Portuguese, which make a beach holiday in Portugal an unforgettable experience. Relax away from the crowds, on unknown beaches like in Costa Vicentina, or plunge into the hustle and bustle on the beaches around Faro.
Holidaymakers are always offered something new here: whether it’s water sports, beach volleyball, boat trips or a nap in the warm sand. There are also day trips to the hinterland. Visit Ria Formosa – one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal – or go hiking. Hiking trails lead along rugged steep slopes past small coastal villages, nice restaurants and lonely beaches. In different daily stages you can explore the Algarve on foot. In the afternoon, a new stretch of beach awaits you again and again and in the evening you can fortify yourself with Portuguese delicacies.
Beach holiday in Portugal on the Silver Coast
The coastline that stretches from Portugal’s capital Lisbon up to Porto is called the Silver Coast. This is where the most famous surf spots in Europe are located. Surfers from all over the world love the beaches, and especially the fantastic waves, of Nazaré, Peniche and Furadouro. But the Silver Coast also has a lot to offer culturally: In the small town of Sintra you can visit Palácio Nacional da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira – the magnificent castle complexes are among the most beautiful in the country, tell an interesting story and have well-kept parks. The Castelo dos Mouros is a Moorish fortress with a fantastic view over the Silver Coast. Fátima, on the other hand, is a well-known pilgrimage site of the Catholic Church. There is a magnificent cathedral in the city: The Basilica of the Holy Trinity is the fourth largest church in the world and stands on the largest church forecourt in the world. Inside the basilica there are 9,000 seats.
Beach holiday on the Alentejo coast
Between the mouth of the Sado River and Zambujeira do Mar lies the coast of Alentejo. The region is quieter, more natural and very romantic. There are picturesque seaside resorts here. Immerse yourself in the traditional life of the Portuguese and enjoy the sight of the white sandy beaches. A special natural spectacle is offered by the steep coast of Sines. Visit the pile dwellings of Carrasqueira and the ruins of Troia. In the evening you can enjoy the sight of the setting sun in the sea and with a little luck, you can see dolphins on the horizon – a very special holiday experience that cannot be paid for with any money in the world.
Portugal’s capital
Is a pure beach holiday too boring for you? Then spend the first few days of your Portugal holiday in the capital Lisbon. Afterwards, enjoy relaxing days in the Algarve. Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal. It is located at the mouth of the Tagus River, not far from the Atlantic coast. At the beginning of the 16th century, Lisbon was one of the most glamorous trading and port cities in the world. On a city tour, you will learn exciting details about the development of Lisbon, for example how an earthquake destroyed large parts of the city in 1755. In the 19th century, the resurgence finally began.
New industries settled and the first holidaymakers were interested in Lisbon and its history. Stroll through Lisbon’s center, called Baixa. It was built in the 18th century. Characteristic of the old town are the small alleys and tiled façades, on medieval houses. Visit the city’s most famous landmark: Torre de Belém is a monastery that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike up to the Castelo de Sao Jorge and visit the impressive fortress of the former royal castle. In addition, you have a gigantic view of the rooftops of the city from the castle complex. After exciting days in Lisbon, you can now enjoy your beach holiday in Portugal in the Algarve in peace and quiet. Go swimming and enjoy sunny hours on the beach. In the evening, small taverns invite you to eat.
