Best Places

Visitors to Portugal should not overlook the Algarve, a region renowned for its golden beaches, impressive cliffs, and abundant sunshine. Beyond its reputation as a summer retreat, the Algarve offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. Picturesque whitewashed villages, historic Moorish castles, rich culinary traditions featuring fresh seafood, and expansive natural parks make it a destination of exceptional diversity and appeal. 

Central Portugal is a land of contrasts — from wild mountain parks and thermal springs to medieval towns and Atlantic beaches — and its eco-hotels reflect that same diversity. Whether nestled in schist villages or set on organic farms, these sustainable stays offer a quiet alternative to mass tourism, rooted in local culture, nature, and slow travel values.

Setúbal, Comporta, and the Arrábida Natural Park form one of Portugal’s most enchanting coastal regions — where sustainability meets barefoot luxury. From solar-powered boutique hotels to nature lodges hidden among pine forests and rice fields, these eco-friendly stays reflect the region’s balance between sophistication and simplicity. Ideal for slow, conscious travel.

The Algarve is revealing a new side of itself — one where eco hotels, nature retreats, and off-grid stays coexist with golden beaches and dramatic cliffs. From solar-powered lodges in the countryside to sustainable guesthouses near protected lagoons, this southern region is redefining sun-and-sea escapes with purpose. For travelers seeking a low-impact, high-reward journey, these green stays offer the perfect balance of nature, comfort, and authenticity.

Discover Lisbon in its entirety: explore historic neighbourhoods, breathtaking viewpoints and savour the city's typical cuisine. Discover the best restaurants, enjoy Fado experiences and follow 1, 2 or 3-day itineraries. Book exclusive tours with Cooltour Oporto and enjoy excursions to Sintra, Cascais and Ericeira for an unforgettable trip.

Discover Northern Portugal on a day trip from Porto, exploring the Minho region’s rich history, faith, and traditions. Visit Guimarães, Braga, and charming towns like Barcelos, Ponte de Lima, and Viana do Castelo, or taste authentic wines on a Vinho Verde tour. With Cooltour Oporto, enjoy small-group or private guided experiences that bring the birthplace of Portugal to life.

Discover the best way to explore the Douro Valley from Porto — by scenic train or guided wine tour. This guide compares both options with updated prices, pros and cons, and insider tips, helping you choose the experience that suits your travel style.

The Lisbon region is where history meets innovation — and sustainability. From eco-certified city hotels in Lisbon to forest retreats in Sintra and surf-friendly eco-lodges in Ericeira, this area blends urban charm, cultural heritage, and coastal nature with a growing commitment to conscious travel.

Northern Portugal is where the country’s deepest roots still thrive — from the green wine traditions of Minho to the rugged beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. In this unspoiled region, eco hotels, sustainable vineyards, and off-grid retreats offer travelers an authentic, low-impact way to explore mountains, rivers, and centuries-old villages far from mass tourism.

The Douro Valley is emerging as a model for sustainable tourism, where eco-friendly hotels, boutique wine estates, and nature retreats are deeply connected to the region’s landscape and heritage. From regenerative farming to solar-powered design and organic vineyards, these stays offer conscious travelers a low-impact way to experience the beauty, culture, and wine traditions of Portugal’s most iconic valley.