Portugal has the best sea holidays. The best holidays in Portugal, resorts on the ocean, prices. Best time for excursions

Portugal is located in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula. A country with a rich historical heritage, exquisite wines, excellent cuisine, a mild mild climate and first-class beach resorts.

Although Portugal is considered a year-round resort, those who like to conquer the depths of the Atlantic will not find it comfortable everywhere. On the west coast, the water warms up to only +18, which means that swimming here is not for everyone. On the southern coast, the water temperature rises to +25, which is very suitable for swimming.

That is why the best resort towns are mainly concentrated on the south coast, as well as the Madeira archipelago and the Azores.

Algarve is a province located in the very south of the country. The capital Faro is the largest city in the area and is often used by travelers as the main starting point for excursions in the south of the country.

Its history as a resort begins just a few decades ago. Although even the ancient Romans appreciated the nature and climate of this territory, and built their luxurious villas here. At the end of the twentieth century, the British “decided” to make the Algarve their most environmentally friendly resort. It is thanks to this attention that the tourism business here began to develop by leaps and bounds.

In fact, the holiday here is really good. The mountains located in the north protect the entire area from cold winds, and the warm Atlantic current creates a mild and unique climate. Summer here lasts from April to November, and the temperature is + 23–28 degrees. The amazing and unique fauna will not leave any heart indifferent. The hills on the horizon are thickly covered with orange and almond trees, and the small coves are surrounded by picturesque cliffs. The eastern part is famous for its excellent fine sand, and the western part surprises with its rocky beaches of incredible beauty.

The main resorts of the Algarve are Albufeira, Monte Gordo, Vilamoura and many other equally cozy and convenient ones.

Each of these towns is unique and truly divine in its own way, it’s up to you to choose.

Infrastructure

Everything is arranged for guests. Equipped beaches for parties, for nudists and for people with disabilities. There are also deserted wild corners on the coast, for secluded “relaxation”. There is only nature and you.

A huge amount of all kinds of entertainment for any guest. There are also shops, bars, restaurants, clubs and casinos.

Those who like to spend time actively can hunt sharks, learn scuba diving, go sailing or surfing, sail on a speedboat or a luxury yacht.

There is also a golf club here where you can play all year round.

Many people believe that “vacations” here are only for those who have a “Swiss bank” account. However, this is not the case. Indeed, you can choose an exclusive complex where everything is equipped to the highest class and the prices here are really not low. Again, there are many three-star hotels at your service with fairly reasonable prices, and the practice of renting housing for youth groups has been developed.

Extensive road systems allow you to quickly get to any necessary point. Many excursions in different directions are offered to visitors by various travel agencies. No one will be bored here.

How to get there

You can fly to the Algarve from Moscow by charter, which goes to Faro. You can take a flight to Lisbon, and from there either domestic flights to Faro, or a four-hour bus.

You can see current flight prices below:

Cost of living

The map below shows hotels in the Algarve region with accommodation prices. The numbers indicate the number of hotels near the mark. When you enlarge the map, prices become visible:

Azores

The Azores is an archipelago located 1,500 kilometers from the European coast, which is an autonomous region. They are of volcanic origin and consist of three main groups and many small ones, which are mostly uninhabited.

In the central part are Pico, Sao Jorge, Graciosa, Terceirai Faial. To the east belong Santa Maria and San Miguel. The western ones include Corvo and Floris. All of them are covered with lush greenery, for which they received the name “Green Islands”. There are researchers who claim that the “Azores” are just small mountain peaks of the lost Atlantis, which once sank to the bottom of the ocean. However, this statement has not yet received official recognition.

Each small “piece of land” will offer tourists its own unique beauty and entertainment.

San Miguel boasts an abundance of thermal springs, forests, emerald valleys and volcanic lakes. Some of the most magnificent pineapple plantations are located here. And in the Furnas Valley you will be offered to taste the national roast of meat and vegetables cooked in hot volcanic soil. Fans of active activities can take walks to the national park, where plants of tropical and northern countries are mixed, or watch cheerful dolphins and graceful whales. Try golfing, tennis and diving.

Faial is famous for its numerous historical sites and yacht port. Sailing and fishing are developed here. Numerous grottoes, caves and craters are amazing.

Santa Maria is ideal for those who love water sports. The entire coastline is indented with numerous coves, forming the most beautiful and comfortable beaches for swimming.

Pico is all about contrasts and crazy landscapes. This mountain seemed to have grown from the ocean depths and reached the very clouds. The houses of the indigenous population are built from dark volcanic lava and are surrounded by huge hydrangea bushes and grapes.

Infrastructure

Here you will not find a variety of restaurants, cafes and fun nightlife, but in terms of fantastic scenery, few corners on earth can compare with these amazing stretches of land, lost in the depths of the ocean. Although there are no “palace hotels” here, high-quality service, a moderate warm climate, and a lot of interesting entertainment activities will make your vacation unforgettable and comfortable.

The Azores, with their amazing landscapes and stunning views, fascinate and attract tourists who are tired of the crazy pace of life, the bustle of the city and want to be alone with nature.

How to get there

Cost of living on the islands

To understand prices in the region, let’s take two islands. You can see the rest using the maps below yourself:

Terceira Island:

San Miguel Island:

Madeira Island

A few hundred kilometers from the coast of Portugal and 700 km from hot Africa there is a unique nature reserve and the most “ancient” and popular resort, the “Island of Flowers and Eternal Spring” - Madeira. It is the very peak of a huge six-kilometer volcano covered with a lush carpet of flowers and green vegetation. The tourist season here lasts all year round.

Due to the fact that the island is “caressed” by the warm Gulf Stream and is cooled by the waters of the Atlantic in the summer, a warm subtropical climate prevails here. In summer, the air temperature rises to + 30, and ocean waters warm up to + 25 degrees. In winter there are often storms and temperature changes, but it still remains at a comfortable level for relaxation of + 20 degrees.

The rich flora amazes with its diversity. Bamboo thickets, mysterious groves of giant ferns, graceful forests of cypress trees and a huge number of flowers will delight your eyes. The fauna is not so diverse. Here you can only find waterfowl and nimble hares.

The unique beaches are formed from hardened lava and look like giant “baths” that are protected from the ocean by natural partitions. Ocean waves periodically flow smoothly through these fences.

Infrastructure

In Madeira you will find a huge selection of hotels in different areas and of different levels. The most fashionable ones are located in Funchal near the Atlantic Ocean. They have the appropriate infrastructure, entertainment centers, a large number of bars, restaurants and cafes. You can also stay in a “hotel-estate”, which is located quite far from Fushala and is quite expensive. But an exotic holiday in the former houses of the representative nobility of past times is really worth it. Quality service, divine surroundings and stunning views will be a great bonus on your holiday.

For those who love solitude, hotels are offered that are as close as possible to the unique nature, but you will have to get to them by taxi.

For lovers of active travel, many walking tours are organized through amazing and colorful “back streets”. Mainly the path runs parallel to water channels dug in the distant fifteenth century. All year round, ringing streams flow down them from incredibly beautiful mountain peaks, over which majestic eagles soar, and water reed plantations and wheat fields.

The main strip of the coast is a very steep rocky cliff, so the beaches are located in suitable places. It has everything you need for a civilized vacation. Comfortable modern sunbeds, cabins for changing clothes and clean toilets. Lifeguards are constantly on duty and tirelessly monitor swimmers.

If you feel drawn to city life again, you can stroll to Funchal and admire its tiny houses and luxurious palaces. Numerous museums, modern art galleries, cozy bars and a colorful market will bring you back to the bustling city life.

How to get there

Madeira Airport is located eighteen kilometers from Funchal, which can be reached by regular bus or taxi. The journey will take about 20 minutes. To reach this airport, you can take flights with transfers in London and Vienna. But it is better to fly to Lisbon and then to Funchal by domestic airlines. There is no direct flight from Russia.

How much does it cost to live on the island?

Prices will be shown on the map below when choosing your area of ​​residence:

Lisbon Riviera

The Lisbon Riviera is for the sophisticated and capricious traveler. Being very close to the capital of the country, but possessing beautiful nature and all the benefits of civilization, it has attracted crowned persons and the selected aristocracy for a long time.

There is everything you need for a wonderful pastime. The endless expanses of the Atlantic Ocean, the finest velvet sand, ample opportunities for any active activities, exquisite cuisine for any gourmet and many hotels of different categories are sure to “catch into their net” those choosing a destination for a voyage.

Numerous towns and villages located along the entire coastline are beautiful and unique in their architecture and living conditions.

Estoril is a port city, which is located in the Bay of Cascais and is washed by the gentle Atlantic waves. Quiet luxurious beaches, all kinds of entertainment and intoxicating clean air attract many people who want to have a luxurious holiday. A favorite place for the nobility, including Queen Elizabeth I of England, it offers all the amenities for a comfortable stay here.

Carcavelos is the real birthplace of Portuguese surfing, which began to develop there back in the sixties of the twentieth century. This town is a vibrant mix of ancient streets with incredible architecture and state-of-the-art sports facilities. It is also famous for its excellent dry wines, which are made from nine varieties of wonderful grapes.

Infrastructure

All corners of the Lisbon Riviera have excellent roads, many hotels of various price categories, wonderful restaurants and cafes, and endless conditions for a varied holiday. All this makes the Lisbon Riviera a real “pearl” of resort life.

How to get there

We fly to Lisbon, travel time is four hours and thirty minutes. Then you can take a taxi, the cost of which is 60–80 euros. Or go to the Orient metro station, and then change to a shuttle bus to Caparicú.

Cost of living

The cost of accommodation for tourists in hotels on the Lisbon Riviera can be seen on the map below:

Have a great holiday in beautiful Portugal!

Albufeira

Holidays in Aybufeira are recommended for those who are tired of intense life in the metropolis and want to be alone with their thoughts. Here you can find harmony with nature and enjoy the unique beauty of this amazing city. The azure sea, sun and beach will make your vacation unforgettable!

Algarve

The Algarve resort is, first of all, excellent beaches and a warm ocean. This Portuguese province will appeal to lovers of swimming, sunbathing and water activities; the Algarve also has good conditions for families with children.

Lisbon

One of the oldest cities in the world and at the same time a progressive European capital, a city on the Atlantic coast imbued with the spirit of historical heritage - this is Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. The resort of Lisbon is attractive to tourists for its beauty and attractions.

Porto

Porto is the northern capital of Portugal, where you can feel the atmosphere of a maritime city at every step. The clean smell of the ocean, the seagulls flying around the city, the mountainous terrain - all this is impressive and gives pleasant memories. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe, receiving UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1996.

Sintra

The Portuguese resort of Sintra is often called the treasure of Portugal, and this is deservedly so - the city is very beautiful, there are magnificent views of the coast, many attractions and picturesque nature. Sintra has all the conditions for a successful holiday, including for a family holiday with children.

Faro

The Portuguese resort of Faro is located on the shores of the Ria Formosa Gulf, in the south of the country. The city is small and cozy, Faro is quite suitable for a relaxed family holiday with children. The resort will appeal to lovers of ancient architectural monuments, hiking and southern Portuguese cuisine.

Cascais

The Portuguese resort of Cascais is considered a center of youth entertainment; life here is in full swing day and night. People rarely come to Cascais to relax with children; this place is more suitable for nightlife lovers. The city also has many attractions that will not allow tourists to get bored during the day.

Estoril

The popular Portuguese resort of Estoril is located on the coast washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Life here is rich, with many activities offered to tourists - from golfing and surfing to casino gambling and European-level racing.

Carcavelos

The prestigious Portuguese resort of Carcavelos is located on the Atlantic coast. This is a small cozy town, located just 12 km from the capital - Carcavelos, tourists often choose for a relaxing holiday with children and spend several days of their vacation walking around Lisbon.

Madeira

In guidebooks, the resort of Madeira is characterized as a picturesque corner of eternal spring with many colorful shades. The evergreen peaks of the underwater volcano, combined with bright floral arrangements on land, perfectly complement the rocky coastline and the azure surface of the Atlantic Ocean.

Description of resorts in Portugal

The resorts of Portugal, one of the sunniest European countries, are uniquely colorful, with a pleasant climate and good environmental situation. That is why resorts in Portugal by the sea, in the mountains and near thermal springs are so popular.
When you come to the resorts of Portugal on the Mediterranean Sea, you receive a powerful energy charge, only positive emotions and a great mood. The seaside resorts of Portugal are famous for their good hotels with a high level of service, amazing wines and luxurious cuisine.
The southern resorts of Portugal are located in the Algarve province, which stretches for one and a half hundred kilometers, which is famous for its variety of beaches - sandy, pebble and rocky. The most popular resorts of Portugal in the south are Portimao and Albufeia.
Want to splash in the ocean? There are more than enough resorts in Portugal on the ocean. After all, the length of the ocean coast in the country is almost 2 thousand kilometers. And you will definitely like the beaches of the so-called “Lisbon Riviera” - they are marked with the Blue Flag, velvety from the finest light sand, fresh from the breeze and caressed by a leisurely, crystal-clear wave. Fans of windsurfing, going on holiday to Portugal, choose resorts here - on the Riviera. The most famous of these resorts is Guincho, which hosts international competitions and championships.
If we list the beauties that Portugal is rich in, resorts on the ocean should be considered only the third part of the beach holidays offered. Two more are seaside and island resorts. What can Madeira be compared to? Its extinct volcanoes, small clean beaches, thickets of eucalyptus groves in which you can’t breathe. And what about Pico Island, beloved by divers? If since childhood you have dreamed of an underwater journey in search of whales, dolphins and treasures of sunken ships, this is the place for you.
But Portugal is not limited to beach holidays; resort cities also offer treatment, including thermal springs. There are just over thirty of them in the country. Among the most famous is Chaves, discovered in ancient Roman times, its thermal waters help get rid of problems with digestion, blood pressure, and high blood sugar. There is also Gerês, where bronchial asthma is treated.
The younger generation also likes Portugal, a youth resort in the mountains like Vodafone Sky is crowded all year round. In winter they go skiing and snowboarding, in summer they go paragliding.
For those who like Portugal, popular resorts will hospitably open their doors at any time of the year. Do you like sunny Portugal, resorts whose prices do not seem so high? Welcome - any resort of your choice!

One of the oldest states in Europe, famous for its rich historical heritage, Portugal is a quiet, sunny country on the southwestern “outskirts” of the Iberian Peninsula, stretching along the border with Spain on one side, and along the Atlantic coast on the other. Find out on the Tour Calendar why the most favorable time for a holiday in the “European province” is from the end of May to mid-September.

Portugal is the “provincial outskirts of Europe”, a favorite place for a measured, respectable holiday for tourists fed up with standard beauties

Tourist season in Portugal

Portugal is perhaps the most attractive European country for an environmentally friendly holiday. An excellent climate, picturesque landscapes, impeccable beaches, marked with the Blue Flag for the highest quality of water and the amenities of coastal areas, an abundance of unique antiquities, delicious cuisine, good shopping - all this annually attracts up to 10,000,000 tourists here. Such impressive figures give reason to conclude that Portugal, with its Azores and the Madeira archipelago, ranks 5th in Europe in terms of tourist flow. However, the measured, sedate holiday inherent in it is available only to real gourmets with incomes “above average”, who, as a rule, have already seen many countries, and are now looking for something unconventional and very interesting in Europe. Therefore, there is no talk of high demand for this tourist destination among Russians yet.

High season

The largest number of fans of Portuguese holidays come to the country in the summer, when the weather is moderately hot, favorable both for swimming in the waters of the Atlantic and for participating in various excursion programs. The two weeks of the New Year are also considered to be high season. Travelers book trips both to the continental part of the country and to the island of Madeira, where they vacation all year round due to its warm climate. By the way, a magnificent carnival takes place here in February, so air tickets are sold out several months in advance. Portugal is visited by travelers from absolutely different parts of the world, but at the moment the leaders are tourists from Britain (the Queen of England loves Portugal very much), America, Canada, Holland and Germany. There are never crowds in Portugal, even at the height of summer. There are quite a few Russians in the high season. The lack of regular direct flights is taking its toll.

Low season

The low season in Portugal runs from November to the last days of April, excluding holidays and religious weeks. Thanks to the warm climate, which is considered one of the most favorable in Europe, you can relax in this country even in winter. And Madeira is generally considered a year-round resort, but it is more suitable for eco-tourism, since there are practically no good beaches there. The main advantage of the low season is very affordable prices for accommodation, excursions and meals in restaurants. So, the same hotel room in winter will cost about half as much. Prices for SPA treatments are also being reduced. Therefore, if the cultural and historical heritage of Portugal and its gastronomy are more important to you than a beach holiday, which, in principle, can be replaced by a luxurious heated swimming pool, then do not waste time and book your tour now.

Beach season in Portugal

The beach season opens in mid-April. The sun's rays at midday are already quite hot, but at the same time they are quite safe. With patience, you can get a wonderful tan. But even the most seasoned holidaymakers do not dare to swim either this or next month - the water temperature is still about +14 °C..+16 °C. The swimming season in Madeira begins the earliest, since by mid-to-late May the coastal waters of the ocean warm up to +20 °C..21 °C. In general, for many, Portugal will not seem like a very suitable place for a beach holiday, because the maximum water temperature, usually reached at all resorts on its continental part, does not exceed +20 °C under the influence of the cold Canary Current passing along the western shores. In addition, a cool wind constantly blows along the entire coast, which is why it becomes quite chilly to go ashore after swimming. Well, if the desire to combine an excursion program with a beach holiday is great (it is summer after all!), then it is better to give preference to southern resorts or the Madeira archipelago, where the maximum water temperature during the season is approximately +23 °C.

Velvet season in Portugal

The velvet season, which occurs in September in Portugal, is a relative concept, since the ocean significantly cools the perception of temperatures that are quite high for this time of year. And the water is somewhat invigorating - +20 °C..+22 °C. If you are planning to make your children healthier during the velvet season, then this is unlikely to work; it is best to prefer the same neighbor Spain, where there are still a lot of holidaymakers in September. At the beginning of autumn, tours are mainly booked to the southern coast of the country, the Algarve province, or Madeira. In October, the ocean has not yet completely cooled down -19 °C..+20 °C, but more frequent rains and cold evenings can completely destroy hopes for a full-fledged beach holiday, so we advise you not to take risks and plan an appropriate vacation for more favorable months.

Windsurfing season

The long coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, which is rarely completely calm, is amazing for all types of surfing. Quite low prices, a safe underwater world, excellent surf spots and professional instructors, and most importantly, excellent weather conditions all year round have turned Portugal into one of the main centers of European surfing. Hundreds of thousands of fans of this sport visit the country every year. The advantages of boarding in this country are that the season here lasts all year round. In winter, Australians flock to the coast for “powerful pipes,” and in summer, residents of northern Spain flock to the coast in search of moderate waves. The only disadvantage of local windsurfing is that in winter the water temperature does not exceed +14 °C..+15 °C, but a special suit saves the situation. The instructors themselves say that the best conditions for windsurfing are from May to November, but for those who feel confident on big waves, it is more advisable to prefer September - November and February - April. Popular surf spots in Portugal include Sintra, Sagres and Guincho. In winter, wind speeds in Guincho reach 30 m/s, creating ideal conditions for advanced surfers.

Fishing season

Fishing in Portugal has long been elevated to the rank of a sport. Locals practically do not waste their time on small fish, but “hunt” for big ones. If names like blue marlin, blue shark, golden mackerel, bigeye tuna, swordfish tickle your ears, then you definitely need to take part in this exciting action. Night fishing, jigging, trolling - the season is open all year round. The peak occurs in July - October, when the catch is especially pleasing. When it comes to lampreys, underwater hunting for them begins in early spring.

Best time for excursions

Once upon a time, Portugal was a large kingdom that controlled half the world. Today it has a huge number of architectural structures and historical monuments taken under the protection of UNESCO. You will be amazed by the authentic atmosphere of ancient cities and the pristine natural beauty of the country. In our opinion, the most conducive time for sightseeing in Portugal is April - end of June and September - beginning of November.

Cruise season

In mid-spring, the navigation season opens in Portugal, during which cruise ships bring millions of tourists to the country's resorts. Portugal is one of the countries of call during cruises, most often carried out from St. Petersburg (via Denmark and the Netherlands), Copenhagen, Istanbul, Savona, Venice, Rome, Barcelona, ​​etc. Cruise companies also offer river travel on the Douro River, during which stops are made in many cities of the country.

Ski season

Today, Portugal can boast of only one ski resort, located almost in the very center of the country - Serra da Estrela. It is superbly equipped, but is mostly aimed at beginners, although there is plenty to do for advanced skiers as well. Four red and one black tracks await them. The skiing season does not last long - from January to March. The largest influx of vacationers is observed in February.

Wellness season

A magnificent climate, pristine nature, clear fresh air, intoxicated with the aromas of mountain herbs and flowers, an abundance of thermal springs, healing golden sands - all these countless riches of Portugal serve for the benefit of human health. The country has over 40 large balneological resorts and dozens of SPA complexes offering a wide range of services to restore health and beauty - from simple cosmetic procedures and anti-stress programs, to treatment courses for correcting the functioning of the musculoskeletal system and digestive tract. The best time to take care of your own health is early autumn and the second half of spring - early summer.

Religious season

The Portuguese, especially those who live in the north of the country, are very religious people. They celebrate all dates according to the Catholic calendar. Religious processions and masses throughout the country take place on such holidays as Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Corpus Christi (exactly 60 days after Easter), St. John - June 24, Dormition Day - August 15, All Saints Day - November 1, Immaculate Conception Day - December 8 and Christmas Day - December 25. Pilgrimage trips and walking tours to holy places and miraculous springs, of which there are quite a few, are very popular. For example, the city of Fatima is known throughout the world for the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary at the beginning of the 20th century, who predicted the near future of Russia. After this, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over the world began to flock here. Their largest influx occurs on March 13 and October 13 - these are the first and last dates of the appearance of the Blessed Virgin Mary. People also come here on the 13th of the summer months and September 19th. In July, the Orthodox of Portugal traditionally carry out a pilgrimage, walking in the footsteps of the Apostle James, in which believers from Russia and Ukraine also take part. Today, Russian tour operators are developing a wide variety of routes visiting the holy places of Portugal. As a rule, Spain is also included in them.

Football season

The Portuguese love football; there are a lot of football teams in the country. But the most titled are Porto, Benfica and Sporting, which form the Big Three. The next gaming season opens in September and ends in May.

Theater season

Theatrical art occupies special attention in the cultural life of Portugal. Ballet troupes and actors from around the world, including Russia, come to its capital on tour. The opening of the theater season occurs at the beginning of May, and the end occurs in mid-late October. In September, Porto traditionally hosts the International Puppet Theater Festival, which attracts tens of thousands of fans from all over Europe.

It's time for holidays and festivals

Portugal is famous for its noisy carnivals, and in each province the holiday has its own “color”

The most significant public holidays in Portugal include the following events: Carnival (“Fat”) Tuesday, preceding the day of the beginning of Lent, Freedom Day - April 25 (1st day of the anti-fascist revolution against the regime of Antonio Salazar), Portugal Day - June 10 (death day the author of the epic about the history of Portugal), the anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic - October 5 and Independence Day - December 1. Throughout the whole year, the Portuguese attend noisy carnivals, fairs, and dozens of festivals of all kinds. The most magnificent festivities take place during the February carnival, which captivates the entire country. Particularly loud celebrations take place in Funchal on the island of Madeira, in the province of Lule and in Lisbon: huge platforms decorated with flowers, garlands and crowned with huge papier-mâché dolls are moved through the streets, all this action is accompanied by a costumed procession, music and fiery dancing. In April, Madeira hosts a dazzling 4-day festival of exotic flowers, and a similar celebration is expected in Campo Mayor in September. The entire month of June is marked by a series of “Festas de Lisboa” events in honor of the Portuguese capital, which usually last until mid-July. In the middle of summer, one of the streets of Águeda turns into a real kingdom of colored umbrellas, where the fiery installation “Umbrella Sky” is staged, the beauty of which will take your breath away. The Portuguese know a lot about good cuisine. The country's famous gastronomic festivals include the April Lisbon Fish & Flavors seafood festival in Lisbon and the Óbidos chocolate festival in the second half of February.

Climate in Portugal

The weather in Portugal is dictated by its location in the zone of influence of the subtropical Mediterranean climate, but it has moderate features. This means that sudden temperature changes are not typical for the country. Summers in southern Portugal are dry and not very hot, while winters are cool and damp. In the north of the country, most of whose area is occupied by hills, average air and water temperatures are several degrees lower. There is often snow on the hills in winter. The climate of Madeira and the Azores is milder - there is no heat in summer, and very warm in winter. In general, the bulk of precipitation falls between November and April, with the northern regions of the country receiving it in greater quantities.

Portugal in spring

Spring comes quite early in Portugal - already in the last days of February. Nature is renewed with fresh greenery thanks to the earth, which has “drunk” enough during the winter from the abundance of precipitation, and the subtle, delicate aroma of almonds and the sweetish smell of acacia hovers in the air. Rains are happening less and less often, and the weather is more often pampered with sunny days. Although in the north of the country residual manifestations of winter are still possible. The best time to visit is Madeira, where the tourist season lasts all year round. There the thermometer easily reaches +20 °C. In April there is still enough rainfall, but it becomes much warmer, the first rays of the sun gently warm, gently sliding over the skin. Many people flock to the beaches to lie on the sand and sunbathe, while others devote a fine day to sightseeing. In May the weather is very warm. The piercing blue of the bottomless sky is only occasionally broken by fluffy clouds floating across it, and a light breeze blows. It may still rain, but it is extremely rare. The only thing that can cause inconvenience at this time is the sudden cold snap immediately after sunset.

Temperature and weather in Portugal in spring

	Weather in March	Weather in April	Weather in May
Lisbon	+17 +15	+19 +16	+22 +17
Madeira	+19 +18	+19 +18	+21 +19
Algarve	+18 +16	+20 +17	+22 +18
Porto	+16 +14	+18 +14	+19 +15
Coimbra	+17	+19	+21
Evora	+17	+19	+22
Faro	+18 +16	+20 +17	+22 +18

Portugal in summer

June is the most comfortable summer month in terms of weather with an average daily air temperature of about +25 °C. The sun shines up to 10 hours a day, its rays are already hot, but it is not at all hot, so, without any doubt, you can go on long excursion trips. The first days of summer are also marked by a decrease in precipitation and an increase in daylight hours. However, the ocean is still quite cool, so the bulk of tourists can be seen on land. On the islands the situation is somewhat different. There, thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, the water warms up to +20 °C..+21 °C, but due to the fresh ocean breezes blowing across the entire coastline, long swimming is not yet possible. At the height of the season, the air temperature on the Portuguese mainland warms up on average from +27 °C to +30 °C. Fortunately, these temperatures are well tolerated due to dry weather and low relative humidity levels. Madeira is less hot, making it an ideal holiday destination for those who cannot stand the summer heat. In the northern regions it is much cooler, and in the mountains (by the way, we recommend going on an excursion there) the maximum temperature of the thermometer does not exceed +18 °C. Please note that evenings throughout Portugal are quite cool, so bringing some warmer items into your suitcase is not crazy, but a reasonable necessity.

Temperature and weather in Portugal in summer

	Weather in June	Weather in July	Weather in August
Lisbon	+25 +18	+27 +19	+28 +20
Madeira	+22 +20	+24 +21	+25 +23
Algarve	+25 +19	+29 +21	+29 +22
Porto	+22 +17	+25 +18	+25 +19
Coimbra	+26	+28	+29
Evora	+27	+31	+31
Faro	+25 +19	+29 +21	+29 +22

Portugal in autumn

The first days of autumn in Portugal mark the beginning of the velvet season. Moderately warm weather, invigorating water and a predominant number of sunny days per month are the maximum you can count on in September. The ocean has a significant influence on the weather, due to which even the highest temperatures in the fall are felt quite moderately. As October approaches, the intensity of precipitation increases, fogs make themselves felt more and more often, and as the evening approaches it becomes noticeably cool. Unlike mainland Portugal, in Madeira the summer celebration continues. The weather here doesn’t even think about deteriorating, and many tourists still swim, however, the water and air temperatures at this time are the same - about +22 °C. In November, her whims appear more and more clearly, even on the islands where the massive beach season is coming to an end. cold rains and strong winds become frequent guests. If you come to Portugal in late autumn, choose central areas for your routes, away from the Atlantic coast, which is very turbulent during this period.

Having visited many regions of Portugal, I can note that the regions of this small country are really different: in architecture, mood and even climatic zones. Conventionally, Portugal can be divided into north, south, the capital region, the central part of the country and the islands - the Azores and Madeira. Resorts in different parts of the country are quite diverse.

They can be divided into beach, thermal, ski and diving resorts.

Algarve, Madeira, Lisbon Riviera: beach resorts

In Portugal, as is easy to see, there are many medieval cities, historical and architectural monuments, but the lion's share of vacationers come here for the sun and sea. Beach resorts traditionally come first for tourists.

This can be seen from the number of pale Germans, Swedes and other Northern European tourists who come to the sea already in April. The country's coastline stretches for almost 2 thousand kilometers. The possibilities for relaxation are varied and for every taste: for active and passive recreation, for lovers of water parks, diving, surfing, water skiing and fishing.

Algarve

This region is the absolute leader in popularity among tourists who come for a beach holiday. Unlike the rest of mainland Portugal, the climate here is not Mediterranean, but subtropical. It is noticeably warmer here by 3-7 degrees. In winter, the temperature does not drop below 15 degrees, often around 20, and in the summer in July and August the air warms up to 35-40.

In my opinion, local beaches cannot be confused with anything else! The Algarve is a riot of colors. The sand here is bright yellow, the ocean is very bright shades of azure, and lemon and orange gardens bloom throughout the region all year round. The beaches here are different. In the west they are rocky, with bizarre “cheese” holes in the grottoes, and in the east they are sandy.

One of the best beaches in the region, in my opinion, is Praia da Rocha in the city of Portimão. Before visiting, I looked at very bright photographs on the Internet and thought that they had been altered by filters, the colors were so saturated. However, it turned out that nature here is actually like this. The sand on this beach is yellow-gold, and the ocean plays with all shades of blue and green.

There are a lot of resort hotels around, some located directly on the seashore. Accommodation prices start on average from 60-80 euros per night, depending on the season. Tourists are offered boat and yacht trips, fishing, and a variety of water sports. The beach is very clean and comfortable. One of the unpleasant moments is that all sunbeds and umbrellas on it are paid for.

The tourist season in the Algarve is all year round. Even in winter, when it is already cold to swim, tourists come for boat trips and sunbathing. By the way, during the off-season, housing prices here fall by an average of 30 percent. During the Easter holidays in April, the Portuguese themselves flock here from all over the country, tired of the rainy season. And already in May the high season begins in the Algarve.

At first I was very surprised that there is a record number of golf courses here, as well as specialized resorts for fans of this game. It turned out that the whole point is that the Algarve is literally occupied by the British, who live here as tourists or permanent residents. The British are known to be fans of this sport.

Lisbon Riviera

This is an ocean coast area located an hour's drive from the city. According to my observations, the most popular are the beach areas - and Estoril. There is also a large concentration of resort hotels here. Almost all the beaches here are very compact and the closer you get to Cascais and the farther from the city, the more beautiful, azure and transparent the ocean becomes.

Those who like a relaxing holiday like Portinho da Arrábida beach. It is located in a quiet bay, not far from Lisbon, on the other side of the Tagus River. The place is famous for its oceanographic museum and some of the best seafood restaurants in the area. There are only a few resort hotels here, their prices are relatively low, starting from 60 euros.

One of the most beautiful beaches near Lisbon is Guincho (Praia do Guincho). World championships and international spectacular windsurfing competitions are held here. Locals love the place for its clean water and sand. Hotels here are quite expensive, prices start from 90 euros.

Madeira

Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago located in the middle of the ocean. It is of volcanic origin, so, strictly speaking, there are no beaches here, except for pebble ones.

However, it is worth mentioning the unique beach of Calheta with sand, which is brought here specially from. This is a calm, peaceful place, protected from sea winds and bad weather by a strip of breakwater.

Room rates at this resort are record high, ranging from 130-150 euros per room during the season. In general, Madeira has plenty of resort hotels with their own pools and rocky outcrops to the ocean. In terms of cost, they can be compared with hotels in. During high season, the cost of a night's stay in luxury hotels starts from 100 euros.

Many resorts offer access to the sea on pleasure yachts, water skiing, surfing and a variety of diving programs for beginners and advanced swimmers.

Algarve, Azores Dive Resorts

There are many options for divers in Portugal, as well as picturesque and interesting places off the coast.

Algarve

For example, the unique grottos, which I have already mentioned, where old warships from the Second World War are sunk especially for athletes. Regional authorities say that a separate park for scuba diving enthusiasts will soon appear on this site.

For beginners, there are schools where you can learn to dive into the depths of the sea from scratch.

Azores

The Azores are very popular among lovers of diving and sea fishing. This is an archipelago in the ocean, not far from Madeira.

The fact is that near these islands there is a diversity of marine fauna like nowhere else. You can meet whales, dolphins or rare sea creatures such as parrot fish and so on.

Northern Portugal: thermal resorts

Judging by the reviews of my friends in Portugal, Russian tourists love resorts with hot and healing thermal waters. Among the most popular are Caldas de Saude and Chaves. Usually, along with wellness procedures, clients are offered additional services.

Resort Chaves (Termas de Chaves)

This resort in the north of the country, a stone's throw from the border with Spain, has been known since the times of the ancient Romans. The mineral-rich water of local springs is said to relieve weight problems, and people suffering from diabetes and hypertension also come here.

Tourists value thermal pools not only for their healing properties, but also for their relatively low prices. A night's stay in the hotels of this resort costs from 40 euros.

Caldas de Saude

A resort in the north of the country, near the city. It is famous not only for the healing properties of hot springs, but also for its picturesque places. Spa centers specialize in treating various diseases of the joints and the respiratory system.

Wraps and a wide range of treatments are available to all guests. In addition to medicinal products, they offer cosmetic procedures. Prices per night start from 50 euros.

Monchique

This is a fairly large resort consisting of rustic-style houses, plunge pools and an outdoor pool. The complex is located next to the Serra de Monchique National Park. Guests can enjoy a variety of spa treatments, as well as activities such as mountain biking tours in the surrounding area.

The ocean is quite far from the resort, 20 kilometers. A day at this resort costs 50-80 euros, depending on the season.

Serra da Estrela: ski resort

I was in the Serra da Estrela mountains, on the slopes of which the only ski resort is located, in April. To be honest, I was not impressed by the Portuguese mountains. The slopes seemed very gentle to me, and the mountain was low, its highest point being 1993 meters. Of course, due to the low altitude and topography, the Portuguese resorts are not impressive and can hardly compete with neighboring French or Spanish ones.

However, they are characterized by relatively affordable prices and low hotel costs. The cost of living here starts from 20 euros per night. The cost of a ski pass for one person is 25 euros per day, or for 100 euros you can buy a 6-day pass. On the slopes of the mountain there are a total of 9 slopes for alpine skiing and snowboarding, both for beginners and professionals. For the latter there is a special track on an artificial slope.

Finally

In general, Portuguese resorts, with the exception of ski resorts, are quite diverse and provide guests with a truly wide range of additional services. A big plus is that prices for holidays in this country are sometimes several times lower than in neighboring Italian or Spanish resorts.

That journey to Portugal- what you need. This country is not yet on the list of the most visited vacation destinations, so there is no need to fear a massive influx of tourists.

Portugal is able to satisfy almost any request: there is delicious cuisine (both meat and seafood), the opportunity for beach and active recreation, excursion routes and interesting sights, rich nightlife. But it is worth considering that traveling to this country is not cheap. However, the impressions that Portugal gives from the days spent there are worth it.

Climate It is mild here, there are no strong temperature fluctuations. Dry and sunny summers are not particularly hot; in mountainous areas the air usually warms up to 17°C. The winter months are cool and with frequent rain. Due to the Gulf Stream, a maritime climate prevails in the north of the country. The water temperature in the south in summer can reach 22°.

The capital of Portugal is Lisbon. The city is famous for its architecture and abundance of attractions. The list of main cities and resorts includes, for example: Braga, Setubal, Madeira.

The hotel service here is excellent. Four and five star hotels predominate in the country. The most popular are those located in ancient castles. However, they are not at all budget-friendly. But you can also choose a hotel room in houses that are built in compliance with the surrounding architectural style of the area. There is no all-inclusive option in Portuguese hotels.

Perhaps the indescribable pride of Portugal are the ancient castles, cathedrals, churches and palaces that have survived to this day. The so-called “religious center” of the country is the city of Braga. Nowadays the bishop's residence is located here. Here is also the main shrine of Portugal - the Church of Bom Jesus do Monte, built in the 18th century.

The former capital of the country is the oldest city Porto. It is here that the oldest Portuguese botanical garden and the Port Wine Museum are located, and here you can also find cellars for storing this drink. Also in this place you can admire houses built in the 19th-20th centuries, go on an exciting “trip” through the markets, look into wine cellars and stroll in the coastal quarter of Ribeira.

In the current capital of Portugal, there is the longest city bridge among all European ones. It's called Vasco da Gama. You should definitely look at the statue of Christ and the arch that connects Augusta Street and Commerce Square. By the way, this particular arch with its bas-reliefs and statues is the calling card of the city.

Fatima- a favorite place for pilgrims. According to legend, it was here that the Virgin Mary revealed herself to the children. Therefore, this place attracts dozens of believers. Not far from Fatima is the city of Coimbra. On its territory you will find the remains of medieval fortress walls, and you can also look at the monasteries of Cunvento de Santa Clara a Nova and Musteiro de Santa Clara.

Fish is a popular cuisine in Portugal, but meat dishes are also available. Here they prepare delicious things from cod, perch and other types of fish. A local specialty in Madeira are dozens of types of dishes made from swordfish. But Portuguese cuisine also has a lot of other seafood, spices and fruits. And, of course, the selection of wines in this place will delight lovers of this drink. Port wine is considered a kind of calling card of the country; it is consumed both as an aperitif and for dessert.

In Portugal you can buy excellent quality clothes and shoes, gold jewelry and, of course, you should buy a couple of bottles of wine as a gift for friends and family.
The main souvenirs that are popular among tourists are: leather goods, traditional ceramics, hand-woven lace, and eye-catching various embroideries. When going shopping, remember that on weekends many stores close at 13:00. But some shopping centers with a rich selection of products, located in resort areas, keep their doors open until the night.

A trip to Portugal will leave everyone with only the most pleasant impressions and memories.

A varied landscape, grottoes, cozy bays, hefty cliffs, sand spits, raging ocean waves or a calm, quiet breeze can be found on the beaches of Portugal. Also, no one will be indifferent to the many restaurants for every taste, rivers flowing into the ocean, an amazing underwater world, a stunning microclimate, magnificent landscapes that touch the soul, and the unusual colors of the rocks create a certain contrast between the mirror-clear water and the stunning blue sky.
The water is very clean, but it may seem a little unusually cool. Although this is not surprising, because ocean water can rarely be above 23 degrees. But such cool water is exactly what is missing on a sunny day, when the temperature can rise to 40 degrees.
As practice shows, most people have a positive attitude towards a beach holiday in Portugal, because even the air here is saturated with a different smell, special, unique only to these beaches, which evokes an unforgettable experience. Combined with the stunning beauty of the scenery and the power of the ocean water, it is safe to say that the goal of having a great time and relaxation will be fulfilled.