Date of publication 09/12/2022
Bohemia, culture, nature and beach From Lisbon to Algarve: a trip for the senses
Two destinations to discover and disconnect without leaving Portugal
Did you know that the city of Lisbon is older than Rome? Or that Portugal is a world leader in the production of renewable energy? Its History, traditions and proverbial Portuguese simplicity will make you feel that you have landed in the right place. May it be a romantic getaway, a business trip or a holiday with friends, Lisbon and the Algarve beaches are two destinations that never deceive. Ready to enjoy them while staying at the best hotels in Portugal?
Viewpoints, bohemia and secret pastries
Steep, labyrinthic and coloured. This is what the streets of Alfama are like, one of the most unique in Lisbon and located between the castle of San Jorge and the shore of the river Tagus. Bringing a map with you will not be of much help: it is always better to wander around, allowing yourself to be surprised, soaking in the vibe and mixing in with the locals…
Puertas del Sol is one of the most majestic lookout points in the neighbourhood. An ideal place to contemplate Lisbon’s rooftops while enjoying an exquisite pastel de Belém cake. These cream-filled delicacies have a 200-year-old history and a secret recipe that not many people know.
At sunset, the mirador de Graça is one of the trendy places to be to drink some Portuguese coffee or a refreshing beer on one of the terraces you will find there. However, we also could stick to the elegant atmosphere at Bar Boalma, at the Iberostar Selection Lisboa. This central and exclusive 5-star hotel with spa is just one step away from the main landmarks in the Portuguese capital.
Monasteries, music and restaurants in Lisbon
Chiado, La Baixa and Barrio Alto are unmissable spots to get to know Lisbon. Strolling around their streets full of history will take you on a tour around the most amazing buildings, such as the Jerónimos Monastery, located in the Belém neighborhood.
The legend goes that the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama prayed in this World Heritage temple before leaving for his trip to India in 1497.
The most bohemian and traditional night lights its candles in the old quarter. Esquina de Alfama and el Café Luso are two of the venues that will take you to 1900s Lisbon. Listening to a Fado, the musical genre in Portugal par excellence, is a unique experience.
If you like Fado, you will love to visit the Casa Museo Amália Rodrigues museum and discover more than 30.000 objects related to the most celebrated Portuguese singer of all time.
Lisboeta gastronomy is varied and surprising. A combination between the traditional and the sophisticated. Último Porto is a good example, located in the nightly Alcântara neighborhood, and its exquisite cod with potatoes and turnip greens. Or Bel Canto, the only restaurant with two Michelin stars, led by José Avillez, one of Ferran Adrià’s disciples.
In Restaurante Luz by Iberostar Selection Lisboa, you will be able to enjoy traditional codfish recipes as well as other types of fresh fish and shellfish. Its menu pays tribute to Atlantic flavors and traditional Portuguese cuisine in which delicious meat and rice dishes also stand out.
A lookout point towards the Atlantic Ocean
The Algarve beaches were the starting point for sailors that dreamt of crossing the Atlantic Ocean to get to America. At the Algarve 5-star hotel Iberostar election Lagos Algarve you will be able to contemplate the same sunsets that these adventurers were fascinated by.
On Praia de Mera and right in front of the train station that will take you to the historic center of Lagos, you will be able to enjoy its 4 pools and relax in this spa hotel with a futuristic vibe.
An excursion to the nearby island of Tavira will allow you to discover a magical spot, accessible only by boat. Sail on the canals of the Natural Park of Ria Formosa and forget about routine by strolling on its deserted beaches.
The city of Porches, between Lagos and Albufeira, is popularly known as the city of pottery. Along its calm streets you will discover shops devoted to this type of craft, one of Portugal’s icons.
The most striking natural beauty can be found at the Benagil cave. Created due to the sea’s erosion, it resembles a stone cathedral with a beach in its insides. From the beach of Carvoeiro you can get to this cave by boat, canoe, or even swimming!
Portugal’s golf hotspot
Golf aficionados will find their very own Paradise near these hotels. In the area there are more than 30 courses, some of which have been designed by great sporting personalities such as Nick Faldo, Severiano Ballesteros or Christy O’Connor Jr. The World Travel Awards have chosen this enclave as the best destination in Europe to play golf.
Do you know which is the most photographed hole in Europe? It is possibly number 16 at the Royal Golf Course. Three cliffs over the sea stand between the tee and the green of this classic hole. An unforgettable postcard to take home with you.
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