Cheap Holidays to Portugal

Enjoy Portugal's beaches and golf courses for less

Within a short haul flight of under three hours, you can be discovering Portugal’s varied charms, from fishing villages and secret coves to nature reserves, golf courses and waterparks.

The Algarve region is well-known for its Blue Flag beaches, world-leading golf courses and glorious coastline. With moderate temperatures even in the winter months, this is the best time to book a cheap holiday to Portugal.

Another part of Portugal where winter sun means cheap holidays is the island of Madeira. It offers a black sand coastline and, known as the ‘floating garden’, it’s home to lush green valleys and steep peaks with waterfalls and caves.

Another island which makes up the Madeira archipelago is Porto Santo. Here the pace of life is relaxed, whether you choose to stroll along the volcanic sandy beaches or practise your swing at the golf course, designed by golf champion Seve Ballesteros.

Cheap days out in Portugal

With 88 Blue Flag beaches in the Algarve and so many stretches of sand to choose from, it’s little wonder that the most popular and cheapest activities for holidaymakers are sunbathing and snorkelling. The famous rock formations at Praia da Rocha or the backdrop of yellow sandstone cliffs at Praia da Marinha are probably best viewed by boat – hop on a catamaran cruise or a speedboat tour to fully appreciate their natural beauty.

But away from the beaches, the Algarve also offers a huge choice of attractions from gliding down waterslides, like the ones at Slide & Splash at Estombar, to befriending animals or off-roading across the region’s hilly landscape.

The mountainous island of Madeira is also popular with hikers, and levada paths follow watercourses through the mountains or the UNESCO-rated Laurel Forest, with routes to suit all abilities. One of the best ways to view the island’s volcanic beauty is to take a cable car to the top of the village of Monte, from Funchal. The 15-minute ride passes hillsides abundant with banana plantations, fruit trees and vineyards and will also take you to the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens. Thanks to Madeira’s subtropical climate, these gardens house thousands of plant species, set against fountains and lakes.

Other cheap holidays to look at

Cheap holidays aren’t just limited to Portugal. Take a look at our bargain holidays in mainland Spain – with six Costas to choose from, each with a different character, you’re sure to find a holiday that matches your budget. Or sample the variety of the Canary Islands – from the mountainous Lanzarote and Fuerteventura to the nightlife of Tenerife, these islands offer an affordable getaway all year round. The island of Malta is also a popular year-round destination for a cheap holiday. From snorkelling and scuba diving, to historical sites and island cruises, Malta has plenty to keep you occupied.

However, if you’re set on a holiday to Portugal, take a look at our travel guide for more holiday advice, and take a look at some of the country’s top hotels for a cheap break.

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Saccharum Hotel Resort and Spa

Set into the cliff, in a peaceful spot with a seafront location, this 4* hotel is perfect for a quiet getaway. Contemporary in design, it boasts modern furniture and an infinity pool on the 8th floor offering sea views. There’s another outdoor pool and two indoor pools in the spa area, with a sauna, Turkish bath and massages, charged locally. Other activities available are a gym and a squash court, both paid locally. In the evenings you can relax in the cocktail or entertainment bar or dine in the buffet restaurant. Other dining options to enjoy for an extra charge are the a la carte and barbecue restaurants.