Holidays with lifestyle photographer

Our second passion is traveling. I think it is even more settled in our hearts than photography, maybe because we always wait for that whole year. We do tend to have short breaks, however busy schedule allows one proper family holidays a year. This year long waited destination – Portugal! We are lucky to have Portuguese friend, who found time to travel with us. Because it was our first time, we wanted to see as much as possible, considering two little monkeys, who traveled with us. And we loved Algarve beaches, Porto and Amarante vineyards but there were few disappointing stops as well. Have a look below and go through our little journey.

As our little girls go to school already, we only can travel when school breaks. Anyone who have kids know, that usually this time the flights tickets prices are double than usual. So the best deal we found was Easyjet flight to Faro in Algarve. We decided to spend there four nights and enjoy some sun and lovely beach life. We absolutely loved the scenery, views and beautiful sand. Also we have to admit, that only the small villages further out from the coast stole our hearts. Especially one, famous from pottery and great wine celar Porches Velho near Praya de Marinha, where looking for some nice dinner we end up having great local cuisine. We visit Portimão, Albufeira and Lagos at the coast. Definitely for us the most amazing views we found was at the “end of the world” – at San Vincent and Sagres. You could really spend there whole day just watching the waves.

Three nights in Lisbon

After four great beach days we drove to Lisbon. We decided to spend there three nights booked with Airbnb – thanks Paulo for a great hospitality. Our apartment was in the very center with walking distance to the most famous historical sightseeing points. We spent two days walking around the city, loved the St Georges Castle and Torre the Belem. Girls loved the Oceanarium, despite the enormous queue we stand. However the most beautiful part of Lisbon for us was Sintra with old historical town. We got to the coast as well with stunning ocean view at Azenhas Do Mar. While we were walking through Lisbon we didn’t really feel the atmosphere of Portugal. There was something missing. We had absolutely fun using old style trams in central – used a tip from our friend Kate to catch the tram on very first stop so we could have best seats in this crowded attraction! The name of the stop was Campo de Ourique – jump on tram number 28 or 25.

We love Porto

With little bit of disappointment with Lisbon, we moved on to our next destination which was Porto. How great compensation we found there!! I so regret I only booked one night in this amazing and beautiful city. Porto absolutely stole our hearts. The minute we arrived, could feel the atmosphere of joy and relaxation. Loved every little street of that place. We had great tour at Port Wine Calem museum, not only because it included the wine tasting lol. In the evening the both sides of Porto Vila Nova de Gaia and Ribeira, were full of people dancing, drinking and having great time. Porto I am coming back soon!

Last few days we spent in Amarante, where our dear friend comes from. We travel around vineyards and had great boat trip in Douro. It was definitely fantastic and relaxing time before departing from Portugal. Our flight back was from Faro as well, so we had around 400 miles drive from Amarante. We have to admit, that Portugal has great motorways and in a short time you can travel from one to other side of country. Unfortunately it is a little bit pricey as well.

We did have have great time in Portugal. Also it is great to see different places so you can pick the one where you like the most and be happy to return one day.

Holiday family photographer