Top UNESCO Heritage Sites in Portugal

Top UNESCO Heritage Sites in Portugal, by region… As of the close of 2021, there are officially 17 Unesco Heritage Sites listed in Portugal, with a further 19 on the tentative list. Clearly, that goes to show the wealth of fabulous destinations scattered throughout the country, indeed a noteworthy feat considering the relatively small size of Portugal. […]
Travelling with kids

Travelling with the kids: Four helpful tips to make family holidays memorable! Everyone knows that travel builds character, and that is doubly true for children. Through travel little ones have the opportunity to try new food, see new sights, create lasting memories, and to spent time with family in a different setting. However, as any […]
Must-dos in Parque das Nações in Lisbon

Must-Dos in Parque das Nações: Lisbon is known for its iconic narrow cobblestone streets, the charming Alfama Fado clubs, and its various landmarks like the Monument to the Explorers and the Castelo of São Jorge; postcard-picturesque attractions like these draw incredible numbers of tourists annually. But what about Lisbon’s more modern side? Is it worth […]
Why Portugal ranks highest for preferred travel destinations

Why Portugal ranks highest for preferred travel destinations… Portugal’s stunning but very different regions, their various histories, gastronomies, and of course, their wines make Portugal one of the most wondrous of places to visit, and the world is taking notice. From Condé Nast to TimeOut, publications and tourism organisations are naming it the best place […]
São Miguel 3 day travel guide

The Azores (Açores in Portuguese) is an autonomous region of Portugal and consists of nine islands, the largest of which is São Miguel. The islands of Pico, Terceira, São Jorge, Faial, Flores, Santa Maria, Graciosa, and Corvo are nearby, accessible by either ferry or small plane, but they require time and advance planning to get to. Here are some recommendations for three days-full of activities that […]
Meet the team!

Meet the team! Operating since 2003 and being locally based, AB Villa Rentals is proud of the knowledge and personal service it offers those looking for exclusive holiday rentals in Portugal. But as a pocket-sized setup, we also rely on a number of special people, who make it all come together behind the scenes. From the […]
The best 5 things to do in Lisbon!

The best 5 things to do in Lisbon! What you (surely) don’t want to miss on your trip to Lisbon, as recommended by Pats Madeira – author, cultural tour guide and the founder of “Lisbon with Pats”, which offers private tours of Lisbon tailored to the visitor’s interests and preferences. Pats is an expert on […]
Portugal’s national sandwiches!

Portugal’s national sandwiches! Ex-London chef David Eyre, thinks that Portugal’s national sandwiches are the perfect villa holiday poolside snack! This is how to recreate them… “I think that there is nothing more evocative than the smell and the taste of food, and as I spent my childhood in colonial Mozambique, I have had a life-long […]
Why now is a great time to plan your next family vacation in Portugal!

Covid-19 & current worldwide travel restrictions If you’ve just had to cancel a trip due to the threat of coronavirus and the unprecedented worldwide travel bans taking place since the start of spring 2020, you’re no doubt pretty disappointed! The lockdown most governments have imposed maybe well be for our wellbeing, but living in this […]
Sea, sun & sunsets on the Lisbon Coast!

Sea, sun & sunsets on the Lisbon Coast! The Lisbon Coast is blessed with excellent sandy beaches ideal for both families or water sports enthusiasts, located only a short distance away from our holiday villas and city centre apartment rentals. And whilst the Atlantic is somewhat colder than the Mediterranean, this also ensures that they […]