Located by the gates of a European capital - and according to many one of the most beautiful of all - this is the ideal destination for family holidays with different programmes for whatever the age.

Judged one of Europe’s best for this sport, Guincho beach hosts windsurfing championships every year. Diving and kite flying are some of other activities.

In contrast, around the coast at Carcavelos, surfing and bodyboarding rule the waves. Still others prefer the saltwater pools of Estoril. And as an alternative, how about a coastal boat trip?

Younger members of the family will love a visit to the oceanarium and the chance to see the sea lions Eusébio and Amália at play. And there is also the Lisbon Zoo with its dolphin show.

And Sintra is a must-see. The ideal way to tour this heritage-town, nestling among the hills, is by the traditional horse and carriage. Also belonging to times gone by are the exhibits at the town’s Toy Museum or the tram that still takes bathers down to the beach at Praia das Maçãs.