Holidays in Portugal

Portugal Holidays - Destination Profile

A country of uniquely diverse and exciting landscapes and culture, Portugal has something to offer everyone. From the sun-drenched white sands of the Algarve, through the breathtaking beauty of the interior to the tropical atmosphere of the floral covered Madeira islands and the verdant cliff tops of the Azores, there is so much to savour. And with some of the best golf courses in Europe complemented by fabulous hotels, including the world-renowned Pousadas, it is no wonder Portugal has become a firm favourite among British holidaymakers.

Away from the endless beaches, historic cities such as Porto and Coimbra offer museums and monuments galore; the capital, Lisbon is steeped in the country's cultural heritage as well as being a shopper's paradise. But if your aim on holiday is to avoid cities, the untouched, natural countryside has plenty on offer, too. Perhaps best known are the national park in Geres or the Douro Valley near Porto. Look for the small villages scattered over the rolling hills, inside old castle walls; try the magical town of Sintra with its hilltop, fairytale palace and ancient castle.

It can't be denied though, that it is the 100 or more long, languorous beaches of the Algarve, surrounded by amazing cliffs and crystal clear waters for which Portugal is best known and, with the highest amount of sunshine in Europe, it is easy to see why it has retained its position among the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. Holidays here are great for families offering perfect conditions for sunbathing and swimming and a variety of resorts many of which were formerly fishing villages, retaining authentic charm in the whitewashed houses and cobbled streets.

Value Holidays to Portugal with Olympic Holidays

Book your holidays to Portugal with Olympic Holidays the leading specialist tour operator to Cyprus and Greece with over 40 years expertise in offering quality holidays at great value. As well package holidays to Portugal we also offer an excellent range of flights the Algarve in Portugal. For great savings on holidays to Portugal book online.

Holidays in Portugal - Things to see

Holidays to the Algarve region of Portugal are filled with opportunities to explore the fantastic towns and villages.

Cape St Vincent: Europe's most South Westerly point and is still an important shipping landmark, with it's very own lighthouse that is visible from 50 miles away. The history of Faro is there for all to see if you visit this lively town. Some of the old town is still surrounded by the old Roman walls that date back to the 9th Century.

Lagos: A major port and was the home of Prince Henry the Navigator. There are still many architectural signs of its ancient past and even a building dating back to around 1445.

Loule: A historical town. The walls of it's 12th Century castle still stand, and now surround the town's museum, displaying yet more treasures of this beautiful town's past.

Ponta de Sagres: The fortress of Henry the Navigator. It is here that he once collected the the greatest minds of his day to aid him with his voyages.

Tavira: Escape the more 'modern' resorts of the Algarve and surround yourself in the history and architecture of probably the Algarve's most elegant town.

Things to do on a Holiday in Portugal

There's no doubt that the Algarve is perfect for long lazy days in the sun and relaxing strolls into town and along the coast. But what if you prefer to break up your days with a bit more action?

Golf: Well the Algarve can offer you that too, Probably the most popular pursuit in the Algarve is golf. The Algarve is home to many of the world's top courses and has played host to many international tournaments and competitons. Whether you are a skilled-amateur looking for new challenges, or just a beginner looking for a relaxing break from the stresses of everyday life, the golf courses of the Algarve are the place for you.

Bowls: There can be few things more relaxing on holiday than a spot of outdoor bowls... and there are few more relaxing settings for the sport than the algarve. The beautiful climate, glorious sunshine, calm sea views and cooling sea breezes make the Algarve the ideal surroundings for your game.

Watersports: With the beautiful coastline and beaches that the Algarve has to offer tourists... it's no wonder that some of the most popular and enjoyable pursuits are water sports.

Eating/Drinking During Portugal Holidays

Food and drink is one of the pleasure when taking holidays in Portugal, the country is popular for its cafes serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. Many people assume Spanish and Portuguese cuisine to be very similar but in fact the food and style of cooking is very different. Portugal is well known for good wine so for those of you who enjoy good wines, Portugal holidays are a must. Areas such as Lisbon as very popular for seafood, the Algarve popularity for holidays means the cuisine is much more international.

Getting Around on Portugal Holidays

Travelling to and around the Algarve is a very simple process. Flights into the region arrive at Faro airport and are available from most major airports around the world, making it the quickest and easiest way to travel.

Once in the Algarve, getting around is just as simple. There is a wide range of public transport which is reasonably priced and very efficient. There is a train service from Vila Real de Santo to Lagos that stops off at all the major towns along the way. There is also a comprehensive network of buses that cover the whole region, including the smaller villages.

And if that's not enough, the mini-cabs are well priced and easily found in all major town centres and resorts. But for those who prefer to travel around without the hustle and bustle of public transport, car hire is a viable option.

Driving in the Algarve isn't too difficult to get along with, as long as you remember the cars drive on the right hand side of the road.

Portugal Holidays Shopping

Holidays to Portugal offer the perfect opportunity to pick up bargain wine, liqueurs, spirits, cigarettes and tobacco. As long as your purchases are for personal consumption there is no limit to how much you can take home.

Locally produced arts and crafts make wonderful gifts with items such as pottery, crystal, copperware, embroidery and jewellery widely available. Leather goods are particularly cheap in Portugal and bags, belts and shoes are available are a fraction of the cost at home.

Weather and climate information

The weather in Portugal is perfect for holidays, this is because Portugal is one of Europe's driest and warmest countries. The summers are hot and dry with some areas reaching 45°C, winters are colder but still very mild.