The beauty of the south of Portugal

About the destination: Lisbon is recognized as the city of seven hills due to its geographical position, with the city sprawling across steep hillsides that overlook the Rio Tajo. The city, both romantic and cosmopolitan, showcases its characteristic red rooftops to visitors eager to explore every corner. Lisbon astonishes with its natural beauty and laid-back ambiance. The capital of Portugal boasts numerous museums, libraries, a vast port, churches, palaces, and breathtaking views of the Rio Tajo. Once considered a poor and chaotic city, Lisbon has undergone a revival reminiscent of the 14th and 15th centuries when it was part of a vast empire stretching from Brazil to India. This resurgence was sparked by the World Expo held in 1998, which led to the construction of a new bridge over the Tagus and the remodeling of the city's subway system. The city's revival continued when it hosted several matches during the 2004 Euro and the MTV Delivery Music Awards in 2005. Many of its most beautiful buildings date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, particularly those in the Belem district. There are also many 18th-century buildings, primarily located in the Baixa area of central Lisbon, which were almost entirely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake struck the city in 1755. The city's historic center, situated on Las Siete Colinas, features steep streets and charming alleys. On the city's west side is Monsanto Forest Park, known as Lisbon's lung, which spans 10 km and is one of the largest in Europe. The capital's impressive port has three docks frequently used for various cruises and is currently the busiest port on the European Atlantic coast. Lisbon is a city with centuries of history and an ambitious outlook, blending the historical with the modern, the traditional with the avant-garde. As you wander through the old quarters, you can hear the traditional Fado music being sung and played in small local restaurants. In the hilltop district of Bairro Alto, dozens of restaurants and bars line the narrow streets, with the sounds of jazz, reggae, and electronica filling the air and party-goers celebrating until dawn. Nightclubs scattered throughout the city creatively utilize old spaces, whether on riverside docks or tucked away in 18th-century mansions. Lisbon presents itself to the world as a cosmopolitan and vibrant city, offering something for everyone, especially during the summer months when its many bars, terraces, and restaurants are bustling with people.

About the destination: Sesimbra is a municipality in Portugal, located in the Setúbal District, nestled at the base of the Serra da Arrábida, a mountain range between Setúbal and Sesimbra. Its unique location near the Setúbal Bay, close to the mouth of the Sado River and its natural harbor, makes it a significant fishing town. Sesimbra is one of the best beach towns in central Portugal and is an excellent destination for either a brief visit or a longer vacation. Sesimbra is fortunate to have a beautiful coastline with stunning beaches and towering cliffs, while the breathtaking scenery of the Arrábida National Park is found inland.

About the destination: Sagres is located within the Algarve at the most southwestern point of Portugal and Europe. It is found in Barlavento, western Algarve. Arriving in the Sagres region is like entering a mystical atmosphere, enveloped by a wild, uncharted dramatic landscape, where the sea and mountains converge to form a unique natural heritage. The allure of its beaches, many of which are nearly deserted, and towering cliffs overlooking the sea, combined with its historical significance, are its main attractions. Visitors can also engage with nature by braving the waves, admiring the ocean floor, climbing cliffs, and discovering new trails. Sagres is one of the few places in the Algarve where wild nature, along with a rich historical and cultural heritage, remains untouched.

About the destination: Tavira is a city and municipality, located in the eastern part of the Algarve on the southern coast of Portugal. The Gilão River flows into the Atlantic Ocean in Tavira. Tavira is a stunningly elegant town and somewhat surreal in some aspects. Visitors can be excused for forgetting where they are, or even what year it is, as they step into this unique Algarve fishing town. The stretch of riverfront along the Gilão River is an excellent spot to sit at one of the cafes and appreciate the incredibly picturesque setting. The Roman Bridge (Ponte Romana) crosses the river with low arches, creating gentle reflections on the water, and at low tide, you can see the fishermen looking for clams in the shallows. The gardens (Jardim do Coreto) near the bridge provide a pleasant shady place to sit. Tavira itself is a picturesque, relaxed, peaceful town with everything within reach and is an ideal vacation spot for couples and families. There are also plenty of fantastic places to visit if you want to explore a bit further afield.