Best for: Beaches, surfing, nightlife, family resorts Highlights:
Golden cliffs and turquoise waters at Praia da Marinha
Charming towns like Lagos , Tavira , and Albufeira
Great weather, golf courses, and fresh seafood
Ideal for both relaxation and parties
FOOD & CULTURE
FIRST:
Restaurante O Marinheiro - Albufeira
Why go: A cozy spot with Mediterranean-Portuguese fusion and a rustic interior that reflects Algarve's seafaring roots.
Try: Grilled octopus, cod (bacalhau), and Algarve-style cataplana.
SECOND:
Casa do Prego – Lagos
Why go: Vibrant and modern yet deeply rooted in local flavors. Live Fado music some nights.
Try: Tuna steak with passion fruit glaze, Portuguese tapas, and vinho verde.
Tip: Rooftop terrace has beautiful old town views.
Lisbon & Cascais
Best for: City life + beach day trips Highlights:
Explore Lisbon's historic neighborhoods (Alfama, Bairro Alto)
Day trips to the beach town of Cascais or the palaces of Sintra
Sunset views from Miradouros and river cruises
Trendy food markets and bars
FOOD & CULTURE
FIRST:
Time Out Market Lisbon - Lisbon (Cais do Sodré)
Why visit:
A cultural and culinary hub that brings together Lisbon's top chefs, traditional Portuguese dishes, and modern gastronomy under one roof. The market is set in the historic Mercado da Ribeira , blending food with art, design, and music.
Try:
Bacalhau à Brás (shredded codfish)
Biffana sandwiches
Pasteis de nata from Manteigaria
Regional wines and craft cocktails
Extra: Occasional live Fado shows and pop-up exhibitions.
SECOND:
Mar do Inferno – Cascais (near Boca do Inferno cliffs)
Why visit:
A family-run seafood restaurant loved by locals, set by dramatic coastal cliffs. Combines fresh Atlantic seafood with the cultural charm of Cascais' maritime heritage.
Try:
Grilled tiger prawns and lobster
Seafood rice (Arroz de Marisco)
Grilled sea bream
Bonus: After lunch, stroll the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães or the historic Cascais Citadel nearby.
Madeira Island
Best for: Nature lovers, hiking, and scenic beauty Highlights:
Volcanic beaches and natural swimming pools (Porto Moniz)
Mountain hiking along Levada trails
Whale watching and stunning viewpoints like Cabo Girão
Year-round good weather (a cooler, lush option for summer)
Restourant
First:
Armazém do Sal – Funchal
Type: Fine dining with a focus on Madeiran and Portuguese cuisine Why it's great:
Set in a beautifully restored 200-year-old salt warehouse
Creative dishes using local ingredients (like espada fish, limpets, and Madeira wine sauces)
Elegant atmosphere and excellent service
Tasting menus available
📍 Location: Rua da Alfândega 135, Funchal
⭐ Tip: Book in advance for dinner—it’s popular!
Second:
Restaurante do Forte – Funchal
Type: Upscale romantic restaurant in a historical setting Why it's great:
Located in the old fortress of São Tiago by the sea
Combines local flavors with international flair
Stunning ocean views from the terrace
Live music some evenings
📍 Location: Esplanada da Fortaleza de São Tiago, Funchal
🍷 Tip: Try the Madeiran black scabbardfish with banana and passionfruit sauce.
Highlights:
Try: Grilled octopus, cod (bacalhau), and Algarve-style cataplana.
Highlights:
A cultural and culinary hub that brings together Lisbon's top chefs, traditional Portuguese dishes, and modern gastronomy under one roof. The market is set in the historic Mercado da Ribeira , blending food with art, design, and music.
A family-run seafood restaurant loved by locals, set by dramatic coastal cliffs. Combines fresh Atlantic seafood with the cultural charm of Cascais' maritime heritage.
Highlights:
Armazém do Sal – Funchal
Why it's great:
⭐ Tip: Book in advance for dinner—it’s popular!
Why it's great:
🍷 Tip: Try the Madeiran black scabbardfish with banana and passionfruit sauce.
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