More for Portugal - Know the winners of 2018 World Travel Awards

For the first time, the cerimony for the World Travel Awards occurred in Portugal, on its capital city, Lisbon. Not that we need it, but it must have brought good fortune, since Portugal won multiple awards!

Passadiços do Paiva

Here are some of the categories on which Portugal won the 2018 World Travel Awards:

World's Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction - Passadiços do Paiva World's Leading Airline to Africa - TAP Air Portugal World's Leading Airline to South America - TAP Air Portugal World's Leading City Break Destination - Lisbon World's Leading City Destination 2018 - Lisbon World's Leading City Hotel - Corinthia Hotel Lisbon World's Leading Classic Hotel - Olissippo Lapa Palace Hotel World's Leading Conservation Company - Parques de Sintra - Monte da Lua World's Leading Design Hotel - The Vine Hotel World's Leading Destination - Portugal World's Leading Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant - Vila Joya Hotel Restaurant @ Vila Joya World's Leading Inflight Magazine - Up Magazine (TAP Air Portugal) World's Leading Luxury Leisure Resort - Conrad Algarve World's Leading Tourist Board - Turismo de Portugal

Get to know the whole list of Awards here.

And congratulations for all the winners!

What is the best time to travel to Portugal?

The weather in Portugal is mild all year round, so it is always a great time to visit! There are, however, the best times of the year to enjoy the sun and have less chance of rain.

Destiny	Recommended Season	Temperature
Lisbon	From April to September	Summer - maximum:  35°C [95°F]; minimum: 16°C [60.8°F]. Winter - maximum: 16°C [60.8°F]; minimum: 8°C [46.4°F].
Porto	From May to September	Summer – maximum: 25°C [77°F]; minimum: 15° C [59°F]; Winter – maximum: 13°C [55.4°F]; minimum: 5°C  [41°F].
Braga	From May to September	Summer – maximum: 25°C [77°F]; minimum:  14°C [57.2°F]; Winter – maximum: 15°C [59°F]; minimum: 5°C [41°F].
Coimbra	From May to September	Summer – maximum: 29°C [84.2°F]; minimum: 15°C [59°F]; Winter – maximum: 13°C  [55.4°F]; minimum: 5°C [41°F].
Évora	From April to June / in September to October	Summer – maximum: 30°C [86°F]; minimum: 16° C [60.8°F]; Winter – maximum: 12°C [53.6°F]; minimum: 5°C [41°F].
Guimarães	From May to September	Summer – maximum: 25°C [77°F]; minimum: 15°C [59°F]; Winter – maximum: 13°C  [55.4°F]; minimum: 5°C [41°F].
Algarve	Spring and Autumn	Summer – maximum: 29°C [84.2°F]; minimum:  15°C [59°F]; Winter – maximum: 18°C  [64.4°F]; minimum: 8°C [46.4°F].
Azores	From May to September	Summer – maximum: 25°C [77°F]; minimum:  18°C [64.4°F]; Winter – maximum: 17°C [62.6°F]; minimum: 11°C [51.8°F].
Madeira	Spring and Summer	Summer – maximum: 25°C [77°F]; minimum:  19°C [66.2°F]; Winter – maximum: 19°C [66.2°F]; minimum: 13°C  [55.4°F].
Porto Santo	All year	Summer – maximum: 25°C [77°F]; minimum:  20°C [68°F]; Winter – maximum: 18°C [64.4°F]; minimum: 13°C  [55.4°F].

Best destinations for November - and Lisbon is one of them

November has arrived and is usually a quiet month to travel. After the summer holidays and before Christmas' break, it is not a regular time to travel. But that is just another reason to come to Lisbon, Portugal, at this time of year. It is also less crowdy, the temperatures are lower (but even so, pleasant) and by the end of the month, you will feel a sense of Christmas, with all the lights and Christmas' trees.

Lisbon is on Travel+Leisure list of destinations for November, along with other great destinations

And it also gives some ideas on what one should do in our great city.

Our capital Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills

If you climb each one of them, you will get a wonderful sight of the city and of the Tagus river, along with its southern margin. It mentions Alfama, one of the historic districts, where you can listen to fado music on many restaurants and wonder through the narrow streets. Our marvelous cuisine is never unnoticed, and the online magazine refers to seafood and fish, namely bacalhau (cod fish), which we cook in more than 100 different ways.

Photo by Tom Byrom on Unsplash

November is also a month of several cultural and business events

Vodafone Mexefest brings music to Lisbon's downtown, offering concerts in different locations, such as churches and train stations. Also, Lisbon and Sintra Film Festival brings to town many people related to the movies' industry, such as directors, writers and actors. On a business note, the Web Summit is in Lisbon for the 3rd year in a row, bringing Lisbon many entrepeneurs and techies. Travel+Leisure didn't forget our "São Martinho" celebration, on which we eat roasted chestnusts and drink Jeropiga (a delicious sweet wine). Check out the other destinations for November by Travel+Leisure.

Best Urban Hotels Shortlist by Wallpaper - and Lisbon is on it

Wallpaper magazine just announced the shortlist for Best Urban Hotels. And Portugal has one name on it.

The competition in the hotel business has never been stronger

And the same goes for the opportunities, with the travel business always increasing its numbers. These days, it is simply not enough to have great rooms, warm reception and exquisite restaurant. It is all about the experience. So, hotels are constantly introducing new services, thinking outside the box. The devil is all in the details.

This is what Wallpaper went looking for

A hotel that cultivates a sense of belonging and community... It’s all about the vibe without the starchy formality and fussy five-star frills, the current brief is for hotels to ‘drop any attitude’. Wallpaper is looking for simplicity, instead of good old glamour. In a nutshell. To help them, they surrounded themselves with six globetrotters, from diverse areas, all linking to style and beauty. A beauty entrepeneur, a creative director, an art consultant, a designer, an architect and a design curator. All looking for the Best Urban Hotels.

The shortlist has 39 names on it

But one which really stands out is our own Verride Palácio Santa Catarina hotel, in Lisbon. We could tell everything about it... but really this is a case on which the images will speak on its own. We are looking forward for January 2019 for the winner announcement!

For the first time, there are eight hotels distinguished by the Forbes Guide

Lisbon premieres this year at the Forbes Travel Guide Awards with eight distinguished hotels. Bairro Alto Hotel was the only Portuguese to receive four stars, a threshold reserved for "exceptional properties".

Source: Fugas - PÚBLICO 

Each year, Forbes Travel Guide inspectors anonymously visit dozens of hotels, restaurants and spas, scrutinizing them through a thin sieve of "up to 800 objective criteria." At the podium of the Star Rating Awards comes only the crème de la crème of the sector, divided between five-star properties ("extraordinary, often iconic, with a virtually perfect service and incredible facilities"); four stars ("exceptional, offer a high level of service and corresponding facilities"); and recommended ("excellent, with consistently good services and facilities").

This year, the prizes awarded by the international publication have expanded to 20 new destinations, including the Portuguese capital. Lisbon premieres with eight distinguished hotels. None reached the top of the podium, but the Bairro Alto Hotel won the four-star label.

In addition to Bairro Alto Hotel, seven other Lisbon units were "recommended" by the international travel guide. The Corinthia Hotel Lisbon - a good choice for those who want a "quiet place" to stay in the city; The InterContinental Lisbon - with "vast views" over the capital; The Olissippo Lapa Palace - one of the outstanding features is the "exceptional collection of hand-painted Portuguese typical wall murals"; The Penha Longa Resort - a "picturesque hideaway" between the mountains of Sintra; The Pestana Palace Lisbon Hotel - where "palatial luxury and history meet"; The Pousada de Lisboa - "a luxurious look at the past" of the city; And the Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade - "French sophistication in elegant Lisbon".

Besides to Lisbon, new cities such as Bali, Barcelona, Bogotá, Budapest, Cartagena, County Kildare, Dublin, Kyoto, Lima, Manila, Melbourne, Monte Carlo, Munich, Osaka, Santiago, Seoul, Saint Tropez, Sydney , Venice and Zurich premiered in this guide made by Forbes. 

Direct flights from and to Lisbon

It’s not a huge new that Lisbon has received more and more prizes and tourists in the last years. But now Lisbon also has more and more direct flights departing and arriving to the capital’s airport.

China will have direct flights to Portugal this summer, from Beijing. In North America, direct flights are available to Toronto, Canada and, in the United States, it is possible to fly to New York, Boston and Miami.

The weekly intensity of flights to São Paulo, Brazil, was also strengthened; in the samba country, you can also fly directly to Brasília, Porto Alegre, Salvador or Recife, among others. Still in South America, Lisbon is directly connect by plain to Venezuela. 

African destinations such as Senegal, Angola and Mozambique have not been forgotten. You can also find direct flights to some popular tourist destinations such as Morocco, Sao Tome and Principe, Tunisia and Cape Verde; Or, if you prefer something less cliché, enjoy and do not stop in your flight to Ghana, Guinea Bissau and Algeria.

In Europe, flights to classic destinations such as London, Madrid, and flights to Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany and Ireland remain available. If you want to go East, the options are extend to Turkey, Romania, Moldavia and Poland. You can still choose between Czech Republic, Croatia, Greece, Austria and Dubai, since every destination has its own direct flight to Lisbon. In addition to those already mentioned, we have the destinations of the Benelux (Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Belgium) and a Scandinavian Peninsula, with direct flights to Denmark, Sweden, Norway or Finland.

After all the options, the most difficult right now is to choose where to go!

Lisbon is the third funniest city in the world

Dynamism, inspiration, food and drink, community, sociability and accessibility (in monetary terms) are the six parameters analyzed to reach the list of the most fun cities in the world. Lisbon appears in third place.

The index is prepared by Time Out, which asks its readers to evaluate each one of the mentioned aspects regarding the cities in which they live. The Portuguese capital achieved 55.6 points, becoming the city with the best score at European level. "They did not evaluate the city with high scores solely for the ability to make friends and find love, they are the inhabitants most likely to meet neighbors and meet friends by coincidence, turning them into those less likely to describe the city as 'solitary' or 'overwhelming', "reports Time Out London on its website.

The first place is occupied by Chicago, followed by Melbourne. After Lisbon, there are New York, Madrid, Mexico City, São Paulo, Los Angeles, Barcelona and London.

Source: Marketeer

2017 Michelin Stars in Portugal

Nine new Michelin Stars in Portugal for 2017! Let’s add those to the existing 14, and we have some excellent fine dining across the country.  One star chefs earning a second star this year is Ricardo Costa at The Yeatman in Porto, and Benoit Sinthon at Il Gallo d’Oro in Funhcal. They join the “two star club” with existing members José Avillez of Belcanto in Lisbon, and Hans Neuner of Ocean and Dieter Koschina of Vila Joya in the Algarve. New single stars have been awarded to Rui Paula at Casa de Chá da Boa Nova and Vitor Matos at Antiquum in Porto, Henrique Sá Pessoa at Alma and Alexandre Silva at Loco in Lisbon, Sergi Arola at LAB in Sintra and Luís Pestana (under the signature of Joachim Koerper) at William in Funchal.  Miguel Laffan earns back a star for L’And in Alentejo.  Retaining their one star for another year are: Pedro Lemos at Pedro Lemos in Porto; André Silva at Casa da Calçada in Amarante, Joachim Koerper at Eleven and João Rodrigues at Feitoria in Lisbon; Miguel Rocha Vieira at Forteleza do Guincho in Cascais, and Rui Silvestre at Bon Bon, Willie Wurger at Willies, Henrique Leis at Henrique Leis, and Leonel Pereira at São Gabriel, all in the Algarve. See below for more details and contact information for the 20 Michelin Star restaurants of Portugal 2017.

DOURO VALLEY & PORTO

Largo do Paço

Hotel Casa da Calçada - Amarante 

Chef: André Silva

ONE STAR. Just minutes away from Porto in northern Portugal is this cozy restaurant tucked away inside the elegant Casa da Calçada hotel. In the past year, Chef André Silva has taken the reigns of the kitchen from Vitor Matos. Chef André won the Nobre Young Chef Trophy in 2007. He was invited to by Matos to join the Largo do Paço kitchen in 2009. And, he was named Portugal Chef of the Year in 2013. Silva’s cuisine is traditional Portuguese with contemporary creativity. Regional ingredients change with the season, meaning you need to return again and again. Book in advance and ask for the eight-course Largo do Paço menu, or the 11-course Prestige menu. 

Largo do Paço, 6, Amarante, Douro Valley

Reservations: +351 255 410 830 

Learn more: Largo do Paço website

Antiqvvm 

Chef: Vitor Matos 

ONE STAR  Chef Matos has a passion for the use of the freshest seasonal products harvested from the region. His cuisine leans towards Mediterranean influences, embracing both traditional and contemporary techniques. Matos started out studying confections and pastries in Neuchâtel., Switzerland, and later worked his way through the kitchens of some of Portugal’s top hotels, such as Vidago Palace and Tiara Park. He earned his first Michelin star while head chef at Largo do Paço in Amarante. His high-quality cuisine is enhanced by stunning views over Porto from the refurbished 19th century.

Quinta da Macieirinha. 

Rua de Entre-Quintas 220, Porto

Reservations: +351 22 600 0445 

Learn More: Antiqvvm Website

Casa de Chá da Boa Nova 

Chef: Rui Paula 

ONE STAR Rui Paul is one of Portugal’s most beloved and respected chefs. Known for restaurants DOP in Porto and DOC in Douro, Paula also hosts Portugal’s Master Chef. And finally, Paula receives recognition for his masterful work at Casa de Chá da Boa Nova. Paula takes inspiration from the restaurants location overlooking the ocean to create amazing Portuguese dishes with fish and seafood. Popular dishes are coastline fish and lobster stewed rice, cataplana of fish and shellfish and salted bass. Three themed tasting menus are also available. 

Avenida da Liberdade Leça da Palmeira, Matosinhos Porto 

Reservations: +351 932 499 444 

See Our Story Casa de Chá da Boa Nova – Álvaro Siza & Rui Paula Create an Instant Classic 

Learn more: Casa de Chá da Boa Nova website 

Pedro Lemos 

Chef: Pedro Lemos

ONE STAR Pedro Lemos may be new to the list of Michelin star chefs, but he is not new to foodies in Porto. His popular restaurant in the Foz do Douro or Porto has been pleasing guests and generating praise since its opening in 2010. Lemos’ cuisine is inspired by memories of his grandmothers: one working the fields in Bragança; the other selling fish at the markets in Matosinhos. These simple and genuine cuisines of land and sea, blended with his own innovative techniques and creativity, make for a unique gastronomic experience. Menu items, therefore, range from devil fish and octopus, to rabbit loin and roasted lamb. Tasting menus are available. 

Rua do Padre Luís Cabral, 974, Foz do Douro, Porto 

Reservations: +351 220 115 986 

Learn More: Pedro Lemos website

The Yeatman 

Chef: Ricardo Costa

TWO STARS Within the first year of opening, the restaurant at the Yeatman Hotel earned its first star; and just a few years later, its second.  All credit must be given to Chef Ricardo Costa, formerly of Largo do Paço (see above). At the Yeatman, Costa puts his own contemporary spin on traditional Portuguese dishes. Yet, the Michelin judging panel may have also been swayed by the extraordinary views from the dining room that stretch across the Douro River to the cityscape of Porto. Or, perhaps they were impressed with the selection of 25,000 bottles of old and new world wines in the Yeatman wine cellar. Most likely, all are reasons to rank this exquisite restaurant among the world’s finest. 

Rua do Choupelo (Sta. Marinha), 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto 

Reservations: +351 22 013 3100 

Learn More: Yeatman Website

LISBON  |  CASCAIS  | SINTRA

Alma – Lisbon 

Chef: Henrique Sá Pessoa 

ONE STAR  Alma (Portuguese for “soul”) is a restaurant created from the passion of Portuguese celebrity chef Henrique Sá Pessoa. The mantra of Alma is “to serve much more than a meal: we serve emotions, identity, knowledge.” With this in mind, the team, headed up by Sá Pessoa prepares Portuguese cuisine straight from the heart fused with Asian-inspired techniques. Having trained in acclaimed kitchens as Evo Santi Santimara in Barcelona, El Cellar de Can Roca in Girona and Tippling Club in Singapore, Sá Pessoa considers his travels as the greatest influence over his cooking. 

Rua Anchieta 15, Lisbon 

Reservations: +351 213 470 650 

Learn More: Alma Website

Belcanto – Lisbon 

Chef: Jose Avillez TWO STARS José Avillez received his first Michelin star while head chef at the historic Tavares restaurant in Lisbon. His career has since skyrocketed with books, TV appearances and a flurry of restaurant openings across the country. Yet, his own personal pride and joy is Belcanto. Avillez refurbished this historic building and designed a menu that has won him much acclaim and two Michelin stars. Avillez likes to say, “each dish tells a story and stirs the emotions of those willing to try it.” And with names of dishes like “the Garden of the Goose that Laid the Golden Egg,” “Dip in the Sea,” and “Suckling Pig Revisited,” we can’t wait to experience his book. 

Largo de São Carlos, 10, Lisbon 

Reservations: +351 213 420 607

Learn More: Belcanto Website 

Eleven 

Chef: Joachim Koerper

ONE STAR Set high on a hill in Parque Eduardo VII, this sophisticated and contemporary restaurant features beautiful views of Lisbon. In the kitchen, Chef Joachim Koerper prepares Mediterranean cuisine that can be described as “luminous and elegant, modern and innovative.” Koerper, who has worked in such noteworthy restaurants as Moulin de Mougins, Guy Savoy, L’Ambroisie and his own Girasol, prides himself on his philosophy of keeping it simple. Locally grown, fresh and natural ingredients are the basis for his harmonious dishes. 

Rua Marquês Fronteira (within Parque Eduardo VII), 1070-051 Lisbon 

Reservations: +351 21 386 22 11 

Learn More: Eleven Website

Feitoria at Hotel Altis Belêm 

Chef: João Rodrigues

ONE STAR The theme of modern Hotel Altis Belém is the heritage of Portugal’s global discoveries. This concept carries over into the kitchen of Chef João Rodrigues. His unique take on Portuguese cuisine involves embellishments of exotic flavors and textures found in former Portuguese colonies in South American, Asia and Africa, such as hamachi salad marinated with prunes, radish and fresh aromatic herbs, and roasted Royal pigeon with mushroom, summer truffle and rich salsify sauce. Tasting menus of three and five courses allow diners a choice of gastronomic discoveries. Yet, for something very special, make reservations 48 hours in advance and ask for the chef’s “Creative Menu.” 

Doca do Bom Sucesso,1400-038 Lisbon 

Reservations: +351 210 400 208 

Learn More: Feitoria Website

Fortaleza do Guincho – Cascais

Chef: Miguel Rocha Vieira 

ONE STAR The stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean from this former 17th century fortress transformed into boutique Hotel Forteleza do Guincho are reason enough to visit this restaurant. However, it’s the extraordinary cuisine of Cascais-native Miguel Vieira that receives a star. At 19, went to London to train in gastronomy at the prestigious cooking school “Le Cordon Bleu”. Afterward, Chef Miguel worked in numerous venues across England, France and Spain before opening Costes restaurant in Budapest, earning the first Michelin Star for Hungary. The cuisine at Forteleza do Guincho is traditional French, with local Portuguese flavor, and now, with the added creativity of Chef Miguel. 

Estrada do Guincho, Cascais 

Reservations: +351 214 879 076 

Learn More: Forteleza do Guincho Website

LAB – Sintra 

Chef: Sergi Arola 

The small 22-seat restaurant is intimate, yet an ideal showcase for the fine art and flavor of Chef Sergi Arola’s cuisine. Mentored by renowned chef Adriá Ferran, Arola has made a name for himself by leading the kitchens at Hotel Miguel Ángel in Madrid and Hotel Arts in Barcelona, as well as his self-named restaurant Arola already at Penha Longa. He adds this star to the two Michelin stars he has collected for Gastro restaurant in Madrid. At LAB, three tasting menus and à la carte selections offer innovative and emotional gastronomy. For oenophiles, LAB has more than 550 labels from around the world. Penha Longa Resort, 

Estrada da Lagoa Azul, Sintra 

Reservations: +35 1 219 249 011 

Learn More: LAB Website

Loco – Lisbon

Chef: Alexandre Silva 

ONE STAR In the last decade, Chef Silva has wound his way around Portugal hitting numerous culinary milestones. His studies ranged from kitchen and pastries, to F&B Management and molecular gastronomy. He was at Lisbon’s Bocca restaurant before winning TV’s Top Chef for 2012. He opened the restaurant at the exclusive Alentejo Marmóis Hotel and later became Executive Chef at the trendy Bica do Sapato. At Loco, Silva embraces “micro seasons” by selecting local organic products at the peak of freshness, to prepare Portuguese cuisine using experimental and innovative techniques. 

Rua dos Navegantes 53-B, 1200-730 Lisboa

+351 21 395 1861 

Learn More: Loco Website

ALENTEJO

L’And Vineyards 

Chef: Miguel Laffan 

ONE STAR  It is no surprise to followers of Miguel Laffan that he has achieved a star for his superb cuisine at the L’And Vineyards and Resort. Laffan’s inspirations are Luso-Asian and Mediterranean cuisine prepared using fresh local produce with a nod to traditional Portuguese flavors. Dishes such as red mullet and squid “açorda,” and roasted tenderloin pork from Alentejo, accompanied by cauliflower gratin with asparagus, peas and black sausage pudding, express his love for the region. Having trained at Forteleza do Guincho (above), Les Jardin des Ramparts and Le Clous de la Violette in France, Laffan no doubt is on track to lead L’And to international acclaim. L’And Vineyards Resort. 

Herdade das Valadas, Montemor-o-novo 

Reservations: +351 266 242400 

Learn More: L’And Vineyards Website

ALGARVE

Bon Bon – Carvoeiro 

Chef: Rui Silvestre 

ONE STAR Not a surprise to fine dining aficionados in the western Algarve, Bon Bon has had their attention for the last couple of years. Now, Michelin agrees. The guide awards the recognition to the cuisine of young Chef Rui Silvestre, stating in the press release “interesting” kitchen “surprised by the technical level,” and, “based on selected raw materials and cutting-edge dishes, with distinctive flavors and careful presentation. “. 

Urb. Cabeco de Pias, Carvoeiro 

Reservations: +351 282 341 496

Learn More: Bon Bon Website

Henrique Leis – Almancil 

Chef: Henrique Leis 

ONE STAR This Swiss-chalet inspired restaurant provides an ambiance of sophisticated elegance and rustic charm. It is the perfect setting for the mastery of Brazilian Chef Henrique Leis who embraces French cuisine enhanced by flavors of his South American homeland. Having set his roots in the Algarve in 1993, Leis is now a gastronomic leader in the region. Seasonal menus can include creations such as noisettes of venison with poivrade sauce and chestnut bonbon, and duo of red mullet and sea scallops with celeriac mousseline. The extensive wine list is equally impressive. 

Vale Formoso, Almancil 

Reservations: +351 289 393 438

Learn More: Henrique Leis Website 

Ocean Restaurant at Vila Vita Parc – Porches 

Chef: Hans Neuner 

TWO STARS Having trained with Michelin star chefs in Berlin, Hamburg and Mallorca, Austrian Chef Hans Neuner was hungry for a star of his own. In 2006, he arrived at Ocean Restaurant in the beautiful VILA VITA Parc resort and immediately set out on his mission. He began utilizing innovative haute cuisine techniques on fresh, locally-produced food products. Within three years, Neuner earned his star, and two years later is was awarded with a second star. Season dishes such as Miral Pigeon with blackberry, chicory and black walnuts, and John Dory served with “burned” artichoke, zucchini flower and rock octopus, have the gastronomy community singing his praises. Neuner’s “culinary moments” come in four-, six- and seven-course menus. 

VILA VITA Parc, Alporchinos, Porches 

Reservations: + 351 282 310 100

Learn More: Ocean Website

Sao Gabriel – Almancil 

Chef: Leonel Pereira 

ONE STAR For years, the classic cuisine of São Gabriel impressed the palates of guests and critics, and always placed the restaurant on the list of Portugal Michelin stars. In 2013, São Gabriel changed owners and Algarvian-native chef Leonel Pereira took over the kitchen. His training at the Alain Ducasse Academy, Le Nôtre and the Institute of Culinary Arts, lead him to positions at the Hotel Quinta do Lago, Niko in Paris, Cipriani in Venice, Alexandra Palace in Switzerland and Panorama at the Sheraton Lisbon.  Helming the kitchen at São Gabriel, Pereira’s “creative and contemporary cuisine” has brought a fresh new attitude to the tried-and-true establishment, as well as earning Michelin recognition. 

Estrada Vale do Lobo, Quinta do Lago, Almancil 

Reservations: +351 289 394 521 

Learn More: São Gabriel website

Vila Joya at Hotel Vila Joya – Galé 

Chef: Dieter Koschina 

TWO STARS In addition to being honored with this Michelin distinction, Austrian Chef Dieter Koschina’s Vila Joya has been selected as one of San Pellegrino’s “World’s 50 Best Restaurants.” He credits this recognition to his staff’s dedication to a high level of excellence in technique and service, as well as use of the freshest ingredients from regional farms and sea. Although, ultimately, it is Koschina’s innovative European cooking techniques that win over the hearts of guests and pallets of critics. His guinea fowl is stuffed with black truffles and artichokes, roasted goose liver is served on a broccoli purée with smoked eel, and Portugal’s emblematic bacalhau is confited and paired with beetroot coulis and yogurt. Vila Joya is located in the multi award-winning 

Vila Joya boutique hotel. 

Praia da Galé, Galé, Albufeira 

Reservations: +351 289 591 839

Learn More: Vila Joya Website

Willie’s – Vilamoura 

Chef: Willie Wurger 

ONE STAR German-born Willie Wurger has left a trail of Michelin stars across the Algarve. Since he arrived in the early 1980’s, Wurger cooked at La Reserve, the first restaurant in the Algarve to be designated with a star. He followed with seven years at São Gabriel, contributing to the star designation it has today. And, since 2000, Wurger has helmed his own restaurant in Vilamoura, which has been awarded a star every year since 2006. His specialty is cuisine from central Europe, and he prides himself on his hand-made seafood ravioli in a Vermouth cream sauce, pan-fried saddle of monkfish on mustard crème-sauce with potato-mousse, and lemon crème in sugar basket with berries. The restaurant is quietly tucked away behind the Hilton Resort in the residential area of Vilamoura. Rua do Brazil, 2, Vilamoura 

Reservations: +351 289 380 849

Learn More: Willie’s Website

MADEIRA

Il Gallo d’Oro at the Cliff Bay Hotel 

Chef: Benoît Sinthon

TWO STARS  French born Benoît Sinthon credits his Italian grandmother for awakening his passion for cooking. From his days in Marseille, he mastered the art of Mediterranean cuisine. After stints at several European restaurants, Sinthon settled at the Cliff Bay and quickly reorganized the kitchen of Il Gallo d’Oro. Four years later, his efforts paid off with a Michelin star. Distinguished dishes include: Foie Gras Triolgy with bicolor pear compote and 10 year Blandy’s Madeira Wine verdelho jelly; Langoustine XL, with couscous of cauliflower and mango, granny smith apple and wasabi; and Premium Wagyu Filet, accompanied by veal cheek confit, black truffle juice. Il Gallo d’Oro is a formal dining room (gentlemen wear jackets) with superb ocean views.

The Cliff Bay Hotel, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Reservations: +351 291 707 700 

Learn More: Il Gallo dÓro Website

William Belmond Reid’s Palace 

Chef: Luís Pestana 

Executive chef Luís Pestana is at the helm and Michelin Star chef Joachim Koerper is responsible for the direction at this fine dining restaurant at the iconic and exclusive Reid’s Belmond Palace. Modern European cuisine prepared with innovative flavors and contemporary techniques is provides a “wow factor”. Cannelloni of foie gras with Madeira wine, chocolate and coffee financier, and pear chutney, rivals the lobster with cauliflower textures, beetroot and caviar. Tasting menus from €77-168, or order a la carte. 

Estrada Monumental 139, 9000-098 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal 

Reservations: +351 291 717 171 

Learn more: William website 

Source: Portugal Confidential

Trivago elects the 10 best infinity pools of Portugal

Trivago has made a ranking of the 10 best infinity pools - or infinity edge pools - in Portuguese territory. And the first place is occupied by Conrad Algarve, in Almancil, whose pool is described by the hotel search engine as "one of the most impressive."

The second place is occupied by Memmo Alfama, in Lisbon, where the highlight goes to the infinity edge pool, with red mosaic, and the view over the Tagus and the district of Alfama. Closing the podium is the infinity pool at The Yeatman, in Porto, from which guests can appreciate the city of Porto and the Douro river.

In the ranking of trivago appear as well the infinity pools of Pestana Casino Park (Funchal), Vidamar Resorts Madeira (Funchal), Eurostars Rio Douro (Castelo de Paiva), Rocamar Exclusive (Albufeira), Areias de Seixo (Torres Vedras), Pestana Palácio do Freixo (Porto) and Douro Royal Valley (Baião).


Source: Welcome

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - BELCANTO

Dating back from 1958, Belcanto has been satisfying its customers for a long time. The restaurant was taken over by one of the most prominent chefs of Portugal’s culinary scene, Michelin-starred chef José Avillez. 

Portugal’s rich culinary tradition and fresh ingredients serve as inspiration for the menu, so it exceeds your expectations if you are looking for traditional food.

With a superb location, being placed near the São Carlos Opera House, it is the go-to place for a great dinner after a show or simply to enjoy a bottle of one of the 300 Portuguese wines you can find here.

It has been considered as one of the best restaurants in the World by the acclaimed "The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List” and is one of the finest places to savour a sofisticated meal in Lisbon. 

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - BICA DO SAPATO

Owned by the acclaimed actor John Malkovich, Bica do Sapato is one of the best restaurants in town. It was designed to appeal to a wide array of customers and, as such, you can find several different styles in here. 

By the ground floor, you can find beautiful, 70's inspired decoration to go with the traditional portuguese cuisine, with just a tad of other mediterranean flavors. 

The upper floor, though, is an entirely different story. In it, you can taste what is probably some of the best sushi in town.

Having been a portuary building, deactivated in the meantime, Bica do Sapato offers vast amounts of space, high-ceilinged rooms and - of course- an absolutely terrific view of the Tagus river through its plate-glass windows. 

With chef Manuel Bóia, one of the best portuguese chefs of his generation, this restaurant near the Santa Apolónia train station will surely be appreciated by all visitors of fine taste.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - FEITORIA

Feitoria Restaurante & Wine Bar is located within the fabulous five-star Altis Belem Hotel & Spa with a stunning view over the riverfront. The Kitchen is taken care of by one of the most respected portuguese chefs, Michellin starred chef João Rodrigues. In Feitoria you will find the true essence of portuguese author cuisine, where all the ingredients are treated with the utmost respect for its quality and origin. Prepare yourself for a great culinary journey where bold portuguese flavours meet the most exotic cuisines in the world, reinventing the maritime Discoveries golden era. Authentic flavours that are complemented by an extensive wine selection, including moscatels and ports.

Remember to make a reservation as this amazing restaurant is normally bustling with gourmet enthusiasts and fine dining lovers.  

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - ELEVEN

This modern Michellin starred restaurant is located over a hilltop on Parque Eduardo VII, which gives the place a certain calmness in the middle of the city's buzz. Up there you are surprised with one of the most  fantastic views over Lisbon, framed by the gardens. On the outside, the building shows minimal and straight lines, using organic elements as iron, wood and stones, with great wide windows over the Tagus River. The interior decoration take on traditional elements such as cork, xyst and wood to give it a modern elegant switch exuding timeless chicness.

The restaurant’s Kitchen is runned by chef Joachim Koerper, a german chef that made Lisbon his home. The restaurant’s signature dishes are cooked with high quality and local seasonal ingredients, presenting a new menu each Season. The food is as cosmopolitan as the location it is served, with modern mediterranean interpretation of flavours. On the restaurant’s terrace, in the summertime, it is possible to enjoy a nice time on its Bistro Bar.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON – CASA DO ALENTEJO

This restaurant right in the center of Lisbon, in Baixa neighborhood, located in a noble house formerly known as Alverca Palace, is more than a place to have delicious food, it is a cultural institution where you can get to know more about the biggest region in all Portugal, the Alentejo region. Get dazzled by the Moor inspired décor on the patio and the fabulous dinner rooms upstairs, one beautifuly decorated with portuguese tiles and the other exuding classic lavishness.  Right when you enter the building you are transported to a scene from a tale from some ancient Arabian book, with a beautiful patio and mosaics all over. The food is very flavorful, typical of the rural roots from Alentejo, with great chorizos and blood sausages, great variations of pork dishes and superb wine that you can savor while listening to representative dances and cantares alentejanos, that recently have been listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - OLIVIER AVENIDA RESTAURANTE

A local favorite, you better make a reservation if you want to go to Olivier Avenida Restaurante. Located on a side street near cosmopolite Av. Da Liberdade in Hotel Tivoli Jardim, with a classic luxurious interior design, with pink satin décor inspired by Marie Antoinette and teardrop chandeliers and mirrors, this restaurant by chef Olivier serves a mixture of Portuguese, French and Mediterranean dishes. They are also famous for their brunch and gourmet snacks served on the counter while having a drink in the trendy oval bar.

It is a place to see and be seen, as it is a common choice amongst local celebrities. 

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - TÁGIDE

With over 30 years of experience, Tágide is still a sound name amidst trendy gastro pubs and traditional restaurants. The restaurant is located within a magnificent 18th-century townhouse in Chiado quarter and the first-floor terrace offers a panoramic view over the city, with the River Tagus on the horizon.

Beside the great variety of food you can taste on the degustation or seasonal menu, with a perfect marriage between Portuguese and French flavors, you can enjoy a lighter meal on the Tágide Wine & Tapas bar on the ground floor.

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - FORTALEZA DO GUINCHO

Fortaleza do Guincho, housed in a five-star hotel with the same name, opened in 1998 and since then it received many awards, including a Michelin Star in 2001. The menu changes according to the season, with a strong French cuisine influence, favoring local and fresh ingredients. The wine cellar is one of the most varied and exclusives in the country.

From the presentation of the dishes to the service, everything is thought up with great care and designed to offer a luxurious experience, exuding refinement and sophistication.

Probably the most dramatic location of any place to eat in the Lisbon area, with an outstanding view to a wide expanse of the Guincho beach, the restaurant is a superb location for an unforgettable experience. 

TOP 10 LUXURY RESTAURANTS IN LISBON - VALLE FLÔR

Valle Flôr is considered the most luxurious and high class dining experience to have in the city of Lisbon. The restaurant is located in the Pestana Palace, in one of Lisbon’s seven hills, it was built in the 19^th century for the Marquis of Valle Flôr.

It is in itself an attraction for the many tourists that come nearby to visit the Belém neighborhood. The lavishing Louis XV inspired décor will instantly leave you breathless.

There is a dress-code, though, no shorts, sneakers or sweats are allowed and gentlemen should wear a jacket for dinnertime. 

LISBON - MUSEUM OF ELECTRICITY

O Museu da Electricidade, overlooking the Tagus River, in Lisbon, is housed in an old power plant that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of its contents. Discover the history of electricity, sciences and industrial archaeology through especially kid-friendly interactive exhibits. Rotating photography and contemporary art installations are added to the museum's surprising offerings. 

LISBON - BEST OCEANARIUM OF EUROPE

The oceanarium of Lisbon, located in the Parque das Nações, which was the exhibition grounds for the Expo 98. It's the largest indoor aquarium in Europe. The Lisbon Oceanarium has a large collection of marine species like: penguins, seagulls and other birds, sea otters, sharks, rays, seahorses, starfish, sea anemones, corals, octopuses, amphibians, jellyfish, among others. In total it is about 16.000 individuals of 450 species. In winter the oceanarium is open since 10.00 a.m until 6.00 p.m, and in summer is open since 10.00 a.m until 7.00 p.m.