Portugal City Breaks

Portugal city breaks offer the best of both worlds. Lisbon, the country’s enigmatic capital, is a maze of cobblestoned alleyways and colourful dwellings, cradled within a collection of seven hillsides. Wander through the steep streets, which have bestowed Lisbon with the nickname ‘The City of Seven Hills’, and admire the pastel-painted houses from one of the city’s many viewpoints, such as Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro do Chão do Loureiro. Indulge in croquete tradicional de carne (meat croquettes) at the well-loved Croqueteria or sample the national dish of salted bacalhau à Brás. History buffs will enjoy exploring the Torre de Belém, once the ceremonial gateway to the city, and Castelo de São Jorge, with fortifications dating back to the first century BC. Head to charming Chiado for shopping afternoons and theatre trips, and the bohemian neighbourhood of Bairro Alto for authentic Fado music and trendy bars.

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is Lisbon’s laid-back sibling and the perfect place for exploring on foot. Stroll through the street art-filled centre, admiring the intricate azulejos (hand-painted tiles), and stop at one of the city’s petiscarias (Portuguese-style tapas bars) for bite sized gastronomic delights. The cutting-edge architecture adds to the artistic feel of the city and beyond its historic centre, you’ll find an intriguing mix of more contemporary edifices. Make sure to sample a glass of the city’s namesake wine (port wine), and come evening, watch Porto transform into a hub of high-energy nightlife.