Traveling in mid April. What is the most beautiful and not to miss in these areas. Which would you recommend and why
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
The Algarve is all about the beaches and golf and April isn’t the time for either. There are many purpose built resorts. Mid April means school holidays, so the touristy regions such as the Algarve will be busy.
The Alentejo covers about a third of Portugal and is less developed, which is where I would head for a more traditional experience. The spring flowers should be in bloom mid April. Evora is a great place for a couple of nights. Beja is worth a look for something traditional.
How many nights is your trip? What are you interested in? There’s some good walking, bird watching, coastline, interesting cities etc.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
We were planning on spending about three days down near the coast in Algarve. We like the beach no matter what time of year. We also like history and good food. Quintessential Portuguese experiences are of interest. I am traveling with my son who is 18. If we were to go to Algarve where would you suggest ?
We will be traveling from the portal area to the 12 historical villages and then heading south looping up and flying out of Lisbon again.I have a car
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Correction… Traveling from Porto.
Also suggestions for Alentejo
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
The most genuine place on the Algarve is Tavira, which hasn’t suffered as much over development as the rest of this coastline. Lagos would be my second choice, but there are too far many high rise tower blocks for my taste these days, which has detracted from its character.
Driving from the historic villages or Porto to the Algarve is a long tedious drive. Take whatever Google maps says and add a third. The motorway toll road is quickest at half a day, but boring. Taking the non toll roads will be a very full days drive. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it in April, when it could be cold and wet.
There are plenty of good beaches without having to visit the Algarve. The area around Comporta is stunning, with long sandy beaches. Zambujeira do Mar in the Alentejo is a beautiful beach spot, but there’s not much to do if the weather is inclement. The area between Foz do Arelho and Sao Martinho do Porto is another good coastal option.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Enough to do in Comporta for three days in April? Are the visitas in Allgarve beautiful?
Which is a must do?
Where to stay in Comporta?