Enjoy Perfect Portugal All Year Round

Whether you want to enjoy the attractions in Algarve away from the summer crowds, hire a car in Madeira or visit Aveiro in the centre of Portugal, now is the perfect time to visit this warmly welcoming nation. It’s more relaxed than in high season, but the weather will still be balmy.

If you fancy the coast, the Estoril area has a lot to offer. Near enough to Lisbon for a day trip to the Portuguese capital, Estoril was once a significant fishing port. Check out the local famous casino, the beautiful hilltop town of Monte Estoril and, for history buffs, there are Roman mansions dating back 2,000 years.
The Algarve isn’t just for summer! Its mild autumns and springs make it an ideal destination any time of year. Attractions in Algarve range from world-class golfing to visits to historic sites and delightful towns like Faro, Lagos and Tavira. Or visit Silves, a Moorish town, with its imposing castle.

If it’s a city break you’re after, give Portugal’s second city, Porto, some serious thought. Any Porto map will show you the main attractions of this World Heritage Site, which dates back to the fifth century. Take in the Gothic or Roman styles of the San Francisco church, or the nineteenth century Stock Exchange Palace. The twelfth century cathedral, in the oldest part of the city, is also a firm fixture on any Porto map.

For something a little less urban, Madeira is a delight in any season. Stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, forests, an abundance of flora and fauna, and pathways make it a huge hit with hikers of all abilities. Hire a car in Madeira and you’ll see so much more of this beguiling island. Car hire in Madeira is available from the airport, where six major care hire companies operate. Reserve in advance, or just pick up your vehicle on arrival. Car hire in Madeira is also available from the capital Funchal or most of the bigger resorts, so there’s plenty of choice.

If it’s an island holiday you’re after, how about taking in some of the mesmerising Azores geography? This bewitching archipelago of nine islands in the Atlantic between Lisbon and the US extends for nearly 400 miles, and the unique Azores geography means that most of these islands are volcanic, although some of Santa Maria is also reef. Pico island is home to Pico Mountain, a volcanic peak which, at well over 2,300 metres, is the highest in Portugal.

Each Portuguese region has its own distinct feel, and there are so many different kinds of great holiday to choose from! Alveiro, in the centre of Portugal, is another wonderful destination.

Aveiro, in the centre of Portugal, is known for its enchanting canals and brightly coloured boats called moliceiroswhich collect seaweed. Nicknamed the Venice of Portugal, and dating back to the tenth century, Aveiro can provide the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. But the area also plenty of beaches to choose from, so fun by the sea is a shore thing!

Aveiro in the centre of Portugal also has a full range of guesthouses, villas and hotels, so you won’t be short of somewhere to stay.

But, wherever you go in Portugal, don’t leave home unless you’ve booked through a member of the Association of Travel Organisers to Portugal (ATOP), the Portuguese travel experts.