Portugal

Fully revised and updated and now with new Discovery Tours chapter. Portugal that is the southern way of doing things, with fizzing vinho verde, fine port wine and stunning scenery. Like a large garden, lush green and full of blossom, resplendent with color and wonderfully fragrant, the country is a feast for all the senses. With Marco Polo Portugal you will discover a land full of interesting variety and sometimes even exciting contradictions. In an area about one sixth the size of France, stunning beaches alternate with cliffs and mountains, pulsating cities with with remote villages and magnificent palaces with battlemented storybook castles. This practical, pocket-sized guide whisks you across the fertile plains and the lush wine-growing areas of the north, through the cork forests and orange groves of the Alentejo, to the sun-drenched Algarve and the legendary Cape Sao Vicente, so often buffeted by Atlantic storms. Lisbon is a great place to visit at any time of year. And everywhere you go you will meet friendly and open-hearted people: Portugal thrills, excites and leaves you gazing in awe. Get infected by the Mediterranean joie de vivre The Insider Tips reveal, among other things, how to experience a different side of the Algarve and where you can get a free massage. The 'Best Of' pages point out some experiences unique to Portugal, recommend things to do for free, and have tips for rainy days and where you can relax and unwind. You will be kept abreast of what's trendy in Portugal, whether it be the new sport of skim-boarding or the numerous electric vehicles that have recently started flitting though the narrow alleyways. For the adventurous, Portugal's remote stretches of coast and mountainous regions are perfect places to head for: Excursions & Tours take you to hidden beaches and splendid palaces. But the perfect wave or a wipe-out can also be experienced here. Portugal keeps you on the move and in shape, whether in the mountains, on the coast, on the golf course or in the saddle; the Sport & Activities chapter will give you some good tips. Finally the Dos & Don'ts highlight a few things you need to be aware of when visiting the country. MARCO POLO Portugal provides comprehensive coverage of all parts of the country. To help you find your way around there is a detailed Road Atlas, a useful map of Lisbon in the cover, plus a separate pull-out map. Discover fabulous hotels, restaurants, night spots and other trendy places to go; there are also tips for those on a budget plus ideas for shopping, travelling with children and sports and activities. Further sections include: Festivals and Events, Travel Tips, Links, Blogs, Apps & more, Portuguese phrase book and index.