Lisbon

Get lost in the beautiful and traditional area of Alfama, in a maze of winding streets and alleyways nestled between the hills and coastline. Admire the blends of Roman, Moorish and medieval architecture in this historical part of the city. Visit the São Jorge Castle perched on top of the hill, then amble along to the enchanting Sè Cathedral. When you’re feeling peckish, break at a traditional tavern and tuck into barbecued sardines on toast, covered in lemon citrus drips. Book a trip here and stay at the boutique Memo Alfama, for its glorious rooftop terrace with breathtaking panoramic river views.

Explore the boulevards, plazas, arcades and avenues of Baixa. Sit beside the glistening fountain in Rossio Square, unwind in a café and nibble on crumbling egg custard tarts or enjoy a spot of shopping in this eye-catching area. Wander alongside the mosaic cobbles and pastel-yellow walls of Praça do Comércio – check out the selection of exhibitions and outdoor concerts held here throughout the year. Stay in the heart of the action at the luxurious Altis Avenida. Dine in the hotel’s top floor restaurant and sip wine on the terrace for unforgettable city views.

The bohemian district of Bairro Alto is a contrasting area. By day, it’s a laid-back place to be, but come sundown the neighbourhood comes alive with hip bars and sophisticated fado clubs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals and tourists mingle, as restaurants serve up a variety of mouthwatering seafood and bars open their doors. The incline is pretty high around here, but you can hop on the famous Gloria Funicular to make your journey that bit easier. A top tip – catch a glowing sunset from The Miradouro de Santa Catarina.

Discover the beauty of Belém – a neighbourhood situated alongside the Atlantic Ocean, bursting with maritime history, striking museums and attractive riverfront. Meander beside the banks of the Tagua River and marvel at the Monument of Discoveries, before visiting the mesmerising 16th century Belém Tower, on the water’s edge. Make a move to see the Jerónimos Monastery, then pop along to the world-famous Pastéis de Belém for the very best egg custard pastries in Portugal. Take a break at the Altis Belém Hotel & Spa for an opulent waterside retreat.

Make your way to Parque das Nações, the Park of Nations – created for the Lisbon Expo. It’s a popular place for weekend excursions, just outside of Lisbon. With its abundance of parks, water gardens, cafes and a cable car that glides above the Tagus River, it’s easy to spend a day unwinding here. If you’re looking for a little adventure, stroll along to the marina and take part in windsurfing, sailing and canoeing. Prefer to stay dry? Hire a bike and cycle around.

Jump on a train or hire a car and travel west along the coast to the alluring towns of Estoril and Cascais. Recline on one of Estoril’s golden beaches, perhaps Praia da Torre or Praia de Carcavelos, and explore the town’s balance of tourist hot spots and Portuguese tradition. A little further along, the dazzling red-tiled town of Cascais is a top pick for sandy beaches, a glistening marina and pedestrianised old town complete with upmarket boutiques. If you’re thinking of booking a break outside of Lisbon, the five-star InterContinental Estoril offers a sensational beachfront location.

Visit Sintra, a captivating Portuguese landscape. With its verdant valleys, emerald forests, rolling mist-soaked peaks and fairy-tale architecture, it’s easy to see why day trippers make the journey here. Start by exploring the Palácio da Pena, it’s bursting with beauty. Then wander through the palace gardens of the quirky Quinta da Regaleira, which was created by Italian architect Luigi Manini – where you will also find the mystical Initiation Wells. Alternatively, head to the coast and see the Moorish hilltop fortress, Castelo dos Mouros and make tracks to the coastal viewpoint of Cabo da Roca. Why not stay the night at the four-star Pastrana Sintra Golf Resort & Spa? It has a secluded location and 18-hole golf course.