North or South? Which Side of Portugal Should You Travel To?
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North or South? Which Side of Portugal Should You Travel To?

North or South? Which Side of Portugal Should You Travel To?

March 27, 2018

The places to visit in Portugal and the things to do are limitless. So, the dilemma begins: how to choose between North and South? Our travel advice will help you find the right decision!

Okay, now you know that’s a great time to visit Portugal. But, let’s admit it you’re a little bit confused about what to visit. Should you go North or visit the South?

It’s all about your personality. Let’s find out where should you start to travel to Portugal.

Do You Prefer To Be Inside or Outside?

Inside: Probably you’ll find the North cozier. Porto, for example, has a lot of places you can visit like museums, castles, markets and so on. At Alcobaça, Batalha and Obidos you’ll find beautiful castles and monasteries but also emblematic Portuguese sites.

Outside: Go South! As most of time the weather is fine, the south is perfect for those who enjoy a trip at the sun. There’s a lot of characteristic places you’ve to visit. Alentejo has the most beautiful plains panting with olives trees you’ll ever see. As well as Algarve, with its sapphire crystal sea.

When You’re on Holiday do You Prefer: Beaches or The Countryside?

Beaches: Algarve at the South will amaze you! Of course the North has a couple of naturally dazzling beaches but Algarve is famous by the white sand and warm waters. Tavira, Monte Gordo, Altura and Manta Rota are just a few of them that are truly well-known by their beauty. A lot of celebrities choose Algarve to Summer Holidays, why wouldn’t you?

Countryside: Go up to the North! Have you ever see a lovelier green than in the Douro Valley? Vineyards climb the hills of the valley to paint the most magical landscape you’ll ever see.

Do You Prefer Winter or Summer?

Winter: If you don’t like the heat, the North is your number one choice. The climate is Atlantic, which means the sea moderates the presence of the heat so it’ll never be too hot. And so, you can enjoy and visit monumental cities as Viseu, Aveiro and Porto without a drop of sweat.

Summer: So, you’re a Summer lover… Algarve is your best bet. It’s normal in the end of July and August to experience temperatures between 25-40º C. You’re able to enjoy bike rides and fly a kite whenever you want.

When The Food Arrives to Your Table do You Prefer to See a Tasty Fish or a Delicious Steak?

Tasty fish: down to the South! The fresh fish from the many markets of Algarve is served in a bunch of different forms. Octopus salad, grilled fish, marinated fish, tuna salad… The list goes on and on. Oh, and the famous “cataplana de peixe” which is a special way to cook rice and fish, similar to the Spanish paella.

Delicious Steak: North, north, north! The North is famous for its meats and ways to cook it. For example, in Porto you can try “Francesinha” which is a special sandwich with different meats and a juicy sauce. But also “cozido à portuguesa”, a bunch of different meats cooked with steam and chorizos.

Your Sport is Golf or Is It More Radical?

Golf: Algarve and the South are recognized for their golf courses. A lot of foreigners come to the South to try its green fields and to relax while playing golf.

Radical: The north part of the country is perfect for you to discover Portugal. A lot of adventure parks have water sports along with climbing and paintball. If you’re looking for an adventure try the Arouca Adventure park, for example.

And if you need more tips and useful information about Portugal, contact our experienced team and travel now!