Portugal holiday travel guide: Where to stay in the green list country and what to do
FAMOUS for its beautiful beaches, proverbial pastries and rich history, Brits have really struck gold with Portugal being added to the green list.
As swarms of holidaymakers look to jet off to the stunning country, we take a look at exactly what it has to offer.
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Where can I stay in Portugal?
The southern European country has lots of different regions to choose from, all of which are varied and offer something for everyone.
There's of course lots of opportunities for families looking for beach holidays and plenty of lively city breaks, but there are also adventures for more active types and lots of interesting foodie landscapes to explore.
Albufeira
If you're looking for sandy beaches, family fun and a lively atmosphere, Albufeira might just be the place for you.
This once peaceful fishing village is now home to a modern marina, a waterfront promenade and a bustling strip of restaurants, bars and clubs - making it one of the Algarve's most sought-after holiday destinations.
Favoured by Brits, it boasts an energetic nightlife scene - with a large number of boozers being run by expats. It's like a home away from home, with a lot more sunshine.
- Travel Republic 7-night Albuferia holidays
- TUI 7-night Albuferia holidays
Lisbon
Postcard perfect Lisbon is the country's capital and considered to be one of the coolest cities in Europe.
As one of the world's oldest cities, Lisbon's historical roots are at the forefront of its most popular attractions - from their iconic wooden trams that take you up and down its steep hills, to local cafes serving up fresh, warm egg custard tarts, or pastel del nata as they're known in Portugal. The city has bags of character, with striking modern architecture and brightly coloured buildings.
With a buzzing nightlife, enough shops for you to drop, cheap beer and delicious food, the busy capital is the perfect place for a break.
- Easyjet Holidays 3-night Lisbon breaks
- LoveHolidays.com 3-night Lisbon breaks
Madeira
The birthplace of Madeira wine is the perfect place to soak up the sun.
The Portuguese island is renowned for its lustful landscapes and extensive network of hiking trails, such as the Levadas.
There's something for every kind of traveller here, whether you fancy taking a long hike, playing a relaxing round of golf, or simply indulging in the region's fantastic seafood while sinking a few glasses of Madeira wine.
If you enjoy a bit of lowkey luxury, this is the place for you.
Porto
Porto is quickly becoming one of Europe's most popular cities, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, brilliant weather and its famous exports, such as port wine.
The city's stunning Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits on the picturesque Douro River, which is dotted with stately bridges.
The second largest metropolis after Lisbon has plenty of port wine cellars to explore and lots of culture to boot. Don't forget to squeeze in a trip to the extraordinary 14th-century São Francisco church.
What is there to do in Portugal?
Apart from sinking your feet into the sand and catching some rays, what else can you do in Portugal?
Whether you want to take a ride through Lisbon on a rail tour, cycle through the city streets of Porto, or head for a wine tasting at one of the country's amazing vineyards - there is so much to do.
The country is full of culturally treasured landmarks - many of which are in its cities - and fantastic shopping, but there's beautiful landscapes and nature, too. Just take a look at Madeira's lovely waterfalls and peaks.
Portugal attracts many golfers too, drawn to the country due to it having some of the most beautiful courses in the world.
And most importantly, try the delicious food Portugal has to offer. Whether it's a Portuguese tart or fresh grilled fish one on the barbecue - the country's authentic food is its international calling card.
What is Portugal's green list travel status?
Portugal is on the UK's green list for travel thanks to its low numbers of Covid cases.
Last week the country reported no new daily Covid deaths over 24 hours, the first time since August.
Non-essential travel is now permitted, and Brits can swerve the 10 day isolation period upon returning from abroad.
Tests will still be required, with a pre-arrival test before returning to the UK, and a second test on day two.
Travel agent Thomas Cook said bookings for the country had gone "through the roof" after Friday's announcement.
What are the coronavirus travel rules in Portugal?
Portugal requires a negative PCR test for all British arrivals.
This has to be booked through a government-approved provider and the test taken up to 72 hours before your flight.
You might also have to fill in a Portugese locator form online detailing where you will be staying and for how long.
Anyone returning to Britain must take pre-departure tests up to 72 hours before travel, which can be a lateral flow or PCR test.
Quarantine or additional testing is not needed upon return, unless the post-arrival test is positive.
The next UK review is set to take place in three weeks - on May 28.
A statement from the Portuguese National Tourist Office last week said: "The Portuguese Minister of State for Foreign Affairs announced that British Tourists will be allowed to enter Portugal as of the 00:00 of 17th of May, next Monday.
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"This decision, will revoke the essential travel restrictions, that is in place until the 16th of May. Any person entering Portugal will have, in any case, to have an RT-PCR test done 72hr before the departure."
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