It would be hard to refuse, given that you would usually wake up to sunshine and the peculiar Portuguese light. Its warm rays dapple the soft limestone cliffs bordering the Atlantic Ocean, cast chiaroscuro on the walls of whitewashed historic towns, and reflect off the tiled façade of the cities.

These sun-drenched regions are home to really pleasant people who are proud to share their country and use their normally fluent English. Knowing that children are welcomed, treasured rather than tolerated, and showered with attention and goodies in restaurants allows families to unwind. Even during the busiest seasons of the year, the summer, motorways frequently remain rather empty, making it simple to travel to numerous locations, each of which has a unique personality.

Granite and vegetation in the north The stunning Douro Valley, where port wine is made, is the source of Portugal’s fame. The country’s center is home to several Unesco World Heritage Sites, including the Alcobaça Monastery, the riverside city of Coimbra, and the ancient villages of Tomar and Sintra. Fortified, medieval hilltop towns can be seen in large expanses of the landscape to the east, closer to Spain, where storks nest on the chimney tops. The Algarve is home to golden coves and sand-covered islands.

Everywhere you go in Portugal, you’ll discover eateries serving traditional dishes; pair them with mouthwatering local wines. Despite being distant from the mainland, Portugal’s islands are worth the trek. 

The Azores, sometimes described as Europe’s equivalent to the Galapagos Islands, are endowed with a wealth of natural beauty, from volcanic craters to dolphins swimming through the Atlantic. In addition to expanding, Madeira is a popular destination for half-term vacations due to its small size and comfortable climate.

Portugal gives it everything, whether you want an active break or a more relaxed vacation. Surfers will love the west coast, above Lisbon at Peniche or Ericeira, while golfers should head to the Algarve for the largest number of courses. Your location decision should be influenced by your tastes. Portugal’s good weather and geography make it a popular choice for walking holidays, whether they are self-guided or part of a group tour.

In addition, it has a superb assortment of affordable hotels and bed and breakfasts, especially when compared to the mostly concrete-covered structures in the city center. Wine is a common drink in Portugal, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip around seeing vineyards in the regions of Alentejo, Do, and the Douro, with a stop in Porto for a sample of its famed fortified wine.