When it comes to Portugal, the only image we get is beautiful beaches reflecting the history and evidence of the beautiful architecture. It is the perfect combination of white sandy beaches, architecturally beautiful cities, rugged coastlines and a booming restaurant scene. Not to mention, lots and lots of wine.

Portugal is one of the most incredible destinations for being affordable and incredibly safe, making a great getaway for solo female travellers.

When you visit Portugal for the first time, you will most likely be impressed by the friendliness, laid-backness of its people, affordable food and wine and diversity of the landscape, food and wine. So, what to expect when visiting Portugal and which season is the best to visit?

Let's check out our blog with a complete Portugal travel guide exploring Algarve, the best seasons to visit and the famous destinations in Algarve. Before starting, let's have a look at the history of Portugal.

Interesting facts about Portuguese history

No No No! I will not talk about the existence and incidents in Portugal that created history. But, I will explore some of the interesting facts about Portugal. Ever wondered why Portugal is the best travel destination? There is a reason and I am going to give you just that - and some crazy stories too. Come with me.

Oldest Country in Europe

And the award for the oldest nation-state in Europe goes to…..Portugal. Portugal got its amendment as a country in 1139.

Shortest and Longest-Reigning Monarchs

Portugal holds the record for the shortest and longest-reigning monarchs. Henrique of Portugal was the king of Portugal for more than 73 years. On the other hand, Luis Filipe was king for only 20 minutes.

Time for Pastéis de Nata

Portuguese are in love with Pastéis de Nata. A crispy, creamy and sweet-tart made in every house of Portugal. Fun Fact! The Portugal family has kept the original recipe a secret since the 19th century. Do not forget to visit the famous bakery in Belem.

Biggest Surf Spots

Portugal is one of the most prominent surf spots. All credit goes to Portugal's beaches and beautiful landscapes, making it the hub for surfing.

Largest Cork Producer

Shocked? Yes! Portugal is the largest cork producer and around 70% of the cork forest. Now, head to a street market for some cork coasters and extraordinary cork handbags.

Craving for more facts, click here for some more interesting facts of Portugal according to Google arts and culture.

Best Time to Visit

We all have our moods spoiled if we planned for that one destination, and after reaching, we have to look at the "CLOSED" banner. Least to consider, but planning during the best time to visit any destination is essential so you don’t have to come back empty-handed.

Spring is the best time to visit Portugal. Imagine waking up to a landscape where flowers bloom after a long snowy winter. That feeling is bliss. Nature just outside the balcony dancing it the most beautiful form.

Another good time to visit is September and October when the sun is still shining, the weather is warm and many of the crowds have dispersed.

I think we have enough information about Portugal, now let's have a tour of Algarve, Portugal's one of the most travelled destinations. Here are some of the best places to stay during your vacay to Portugal.

Decoding Algarve

Algarve is a famous tourist spot as most of the land is covered with beaches and sunny shores. It is in the southern part of Portugal. Algarve also offers famous historical attractions, including Moorish capital Silves and fascinating Tavira, great golf, fabulous beaches from Praia da Luz to

Armacao de Pera, and more.

Algarve offers the best.

Best Time to Visit Algarve

July and August can be a nightmare as Algarve is the most crowded at this time. But, if you are based at a country farmhouse with a pool and shaded woodland, then long, hot summer days are your treasure.

April and June are the best to visit if you plan trekking. While September and October are a bit cold and the sun is warm, making it the best weather to travel to Algarve. Sagres is the last strategic point for the birds migrating to Africa, and the festival in early October lets twitchers wave bon voyage to feathered friends disappearing into blue skies over the Atlantic.

Best Places to Visit in Algarve

These unique villages are dotted from the north to the south in Portugal. Some of them make great day trips, while some are the best spot to stay while you continue to explore other parts of the cities.

Monsanto- Rock Village in Portugal

Monsanto is very far from ordinary. High up on the mountain, you will be able to find this fantastic rock village. Houses in Monsanto are built between the narrow gaps of huge boulders, ladders and doors that sit within the rock. Monsanto is the perfect place to spend a completed day exploring the village by walking around the twisting streets and climbing the incredible valley viewpoints. While you are up there, do not forget to miss the hilltop fortress of Monsanto.

Getting to Monsanto

Start your day trip from Lisbon to visit Monsanto. There is only one train a day. We recommend spending one night at Monsanto exploring the evening atmosphere booking yourself for the night in the Rockhouse.

Ferragudo

Ferragudo is one of the cutest places to visit in the Algarve. This whitewashed fishing village is authentic, with hillside streets and boats on the river mouth.

Enjoy hikes to cliffside ruins, boat trips out to the famous Benagil caves, or take a ferry upriver to the ancient town of Silves.

Are you planning for a picnic? Nothing to add but Ferragudo has some fantastic camping and picnic spots. Choose yours and start camping.

Obidos

One of the most beautiful places in Portugal is Obidos. In 1210, the then King of Portugal gifted Obidos to his wife. Obidos is also known as 'the town of queens'. This place has enormous castle walls, stunning churches, and flower-covered houses. No wonder the queen was lucky to get a town as a gift!

Are you excited to decode Algarve and Portuguese Culture?

I am drooling over these places and have added them as my travel destination. I am sure you are looking for the best package deals and offers.

Another interesting fact about Portugal is that this country is exceptionally peaceful. Why not travel to Portugal to find your peace of mind?

Orbis has some best package deals and offers. Get in touch with contact@orbistravels.co.uk to get more information about the package deals and select your destination now!

We are coming right up soon with some more new blogs and destinations. Hang tight!