Article Author: Jürgen Müller FREETOUR.com Data & Analytics Specialist

Marbella, the jewel of Spain's Costa del Sol, blends historic charm with Mediterranean glamour, making it one of Europe's most exclusive resort destinations. The atmospheric Old Town (Casco Antiguo) captivates with whitewashed buildings, flower-draped balconies, and the orange-tree-filled Plaza de los Naranjos, dating to the Reconquista era following centuries of Moorish rule. Just kilometers away, Puerto Banús Marina showcases superyachts, designer boutiques, and waterfront restaurants where the international jet-set congregates. The city's 27 kilometers of beaches stretch along the Mediterranean, offering golden sand, beach clubs, and water sports from the center to San Pedro de Alcántara. The promenade connecting Marbella to Puerto Banús provides scenic coastal walks past palm trees and luxury villas. The 16th-century Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación and remnants of Moorish walls demonstrate the city's layered history beneath its modern sophistication. Marbella combines cultural heritage, year-round sunshine, golf courses, and an upscale lifestyle, creating Costa del Sol's most glamorous destination.​

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of Spain's Balearic Islands, blends impressive Gothic architecture with Mediterranean beach life along one of Europe's most scenic waterfronts. The towering La Seu Cathedral, one of the world's tallest Gothic buildings, stands out on the seafront, while narrow medieval streets lead through the Old Town past ancient Arab baths, baroque palaces, and modernist buildings. In addition to its historic sites, Palma features lively markets, great tapas bars, beautiful beaches, and a dining scene that mixes traditional Mallorcan dishes with modern Mediterranean flavors.

Modern Portuguese cuisine is not only codfish and pastel de nata, although these are delicious. The local food scene is diverse, blending and mixing influences from Africa, the Middle East, Brazil, and Europe. At the same time, Lisbon managed to preserve its authentic tascas tipicas, small traditional taverns, known for homey ambiance, affordable prices, and Portuguese dishes. Millions of tourists visit the country every year to indulge in roasted octopus at the best Portuguese seafood restaurants, taste a variety of local queijos, or cheeses, and sip on the unique vinho verde. In this guide, you’ll learn more about the traditional Portuguese cuisine, discover the best restaurants in Lisbon with authentic dishes, and explore local dining etiquette.