Portugal is an ancient country with a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by a series of invasions throughout its history. As one of the twelve million visitors to Portugal each year, I had the opportunity to explore three different cities: Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos.
In Lisbon, the capital city, I started my exploration by visiting the iconic café, Pastéis de Belém, which is famous for its Pasteis de Nata pastries. Fueling up with a delicious pastry, I then walked along the Belem promenade, where I encountered a series of impressive monuments that pay tribute to Portugal’s maritime history. The highlight of my visit to Lisbon was exploring the historic town center and making my way up to São Jorge Castle. The castle, with its fortifications dating back to the 1st century BC, offered stunning views of the city. After a long day of exploring, I treated myself to a well-deserved rest at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol terrace, where I enjoyed the beautiful views and indulged in an Aperol Spritz.
To enhance my Lisbon experience, I stayed at the Wine & Books Lisboa hotel. This five-star hotel, located close to the tourist center of Belem, provided luxurious accommodations and a curated interior design. The automated curtains in my room were a thoughtful touch, and the hotel’s sauna, Turkish bath, and shower circuit were a welcome treat after a day of walking.
Continuing my journey, I visited Porto, another historic city in Portugal. Like Lisbon, I explored Porto on foot, discovering its diverse and beautiful architecture around every corner. One of the highlights of my visit was the Lello Library, renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops. Though crowded, the library was a must-see, and I recommend buying entrance tickets in advance to avoid long queues. For dining, I enjoyed traditional Portuguese dishes at Congo, a restaurant that offers excellent food at reasonable prices. For a more upscale experience, I secured a table at the Majestic Café, a Belle Epoque era establishment that left me impressed with its grandeur.
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Crossing the iconic Luís I Bridge into Gaia, a neighboring city, I found myself surrounded by the famous Port Houses. Tasting my way through the different varieties of Port wine was a delightful experience. For an exceptional stay in Porto, I chose the Yeatman Hotel located in the heart of the cellars district. This Relais & Châteaux listed hotel offered unparalleled views of the city and the Duoro River. The hotel’s spa and its two Michelin-starred restaurant added an extra touch of luxury to my stay.
After exploring the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto, I was ready to experience the postcard-worthy beaches of the Algarve. Lagos, a city known for its beautiful coastline, served as my starting point. The Ponta da Piedade peninsula in Lagos offered breathtaking scenery with its cliffs tumbling into the ocean and unique rock formations. I explored this stunning landscape via a catamaran net, catamaran, which allowed me to witness the beauty of the rock formations and hidden beaches. Getyourguide offers four-hour-long excursions that include sightseeing, swimming, and water sports, complemented by refreshing Mojitos on board.
For a luxurious retreat in Lagos, I stayed at the Cascade Wellness Resort. True to its name, this five-star resort emphasized wellness and provided a peaceful escape after a day of beach exploration. The resort’s proximity to the beaches and hidden coves made it an ideal base for outdoor activities. Additionally, the resort boasted a driving range, pitch, and putt overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, as well as football pitches and tennis courts for those seeking a little fitness.
In conclusion, my visit to Portugal allowed me to immerse myself in the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. From exploring the historic cities of Lisbon and Porto to relaxing on the picturesque beaches of Lagos, every moment in Portugal was filled with awe and delight. Whether indulging in traditional pastries, sipping Port wine, or experiencing wellness in luxurious resorts, Portugal offers a diverse and unforgettable travel experience for all.
