Portugal’s fairly isolated location in the far south-western corner of Europe makes it the continent’s least visited and most underrated tourist destination. Fewer crowds make for a more relaxed, authentic experience. Pack your itinerary with visits to hilltop medieval castles, ornately decorated palaces, cobblestone villages and architecturally-stunning cities. The country abounds with fascinating culture, breathtaking natural beauty and a host of fun and varied activities. A single day can be spent hiking in lush green mountains, mingling with the friendly locals, and wandering through scenic vineyards sipping on famous, velvety port wine. Throw in plenty of fresh seafood, a coastline strewn with remote sandy beaches and an affordable price tag, and it makes for an ideal choice of holiday destination.
Set on Portugal’s coast in the southern Algarve region, the once-sleepy fishing village of Albufeira has evolved into one of the area’s most alluring and vibrant holiday destinations, thanks to its outstanding beaches and dramatic scenery and lively social scene. There are over 20 beaches to choose from in Albufeira, including the main beach’s vast, crescent-shaped expanse of fine, pink-gold sand fringing a turquoise bay and sheltered by rugged cliffs. The streets of the old town behind it are frequented by street performers and scattered liberally with shops, bars and restaurants. On the glittering Albufeira strip, you will find some of Portugal’s wildest nightlife venues, including the renowned Kiss club, which usually opens after midnight and pulsates till after dawn.
