Well-preserved medieval towns, picturesque villages, idyllic shores and captivating mountain landscapes. Ten wonderful destinations in Portugal to add to the list of your upcoming trips.
Lisbon is a wonderful city that offers everything you need from a getaway to Europe: culture, unique attractions, intriguing architecture and good food. But if you have already visited the Portuguese capital and want to see something different, Portugalhas many cities - jewels and enchanting seaside and mountain places that can satisfy even the most demanding traveler. These are some of the country’s best of.
Sintra
If you have one extra day in Lisbon and want to take a romantic day trip, there’s only one answer: Sintra! Forty minutes by train from the Portuguese capital, you’ll find a fairytale town - a UNESCO World Heritage site- filled with palaces, gardens and mansions. The imposing Palacio Nacional de Sintra, the colorful Palacio Nacional da Pena, perched atop a sheer cliff, the Castelo dos Mouros and the Palácio de Monserrate with its beautiful botanical garden are its main attractions.
Porto
Portugal’s second-largest city has so much beauty that visitors never tire of the sights and endless strolls. Set along the mouth of the Douro River in the north of the country, Porto is one of the oldest European centers and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1996. Take your time enjoying walks by the river, cross the famous Dom Luis I bridge, discover Ribeira, the city’s most beautiful and historic neighborhood, and of course taste the famed Port wine wherever you find yourself.
Douro Valley
One of Portugal’s most beautiful regions lies east of Porto. Here, the Rio Douro flows between towering slopes with vineyards in Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. Whether you come by boat, train or car, in the Douro Valley you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views at every turn, especially as you approach the lovely village of Pinhão at the heart of the region.
Óbidos
One hour from Lisbon lies the fortified town of Óbidos. In the 13th century, the country’s Queen Isabella fell so in love with this place that her husband gave it to her as a gift. Today, Óbidos is a perfectly preserved medieval settlement, ideal for getaways in every season.
Minho
The Portuguese have a special love for Minho, a lush region of vineyards, wild mountain beauty, secluded beaches and picturesque riverside towns that have changed little over time. The gateway to the area is Braga, a city with Roman ruins, a legendary medieval cathedral and tranquil squares with outdoor cafés and restaurants. Another historic city in the region worth visiting is Guimarães, often referred to as «the cradle of the Portuguese Nation, since Afonso Henriques, the country’s first king, was born here. The city’s historic center is on the UNESCO list and is filled with outstanding examples of Portuguese architecture.
Évora
In the heart of the Alentejo region, Évora is one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval cities and a captivating place to spend a few days. Within its 14th-century walls, narrow, winding alleys lead to impressive monuments and the town’s picturesque square. Beyond being a city- museum, Évora is a lively university town, with many restaurants serving excellent local cuisine.
Coimbra
Portugal’s most atmospheric university town. The beautiful medieval quarter of Coimbra houses one of Europe’s oldest universities. You’ll appreciate the city’s nightlife and the medieval alleys of the historic center. If you’re with the family, you can spend your day at Portugal dos Pequenitos, a theme park with miniature Portuguese monuments.
Algarve
With dramatic coasts, golden-red beaches, picturesque villages and an excellent climate all year round, the Algarve is one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions and one of southern Europe’s most popular summer resorts. Portugal’s southernmost province includes the cities of Faro, Lagos and Portimão and is the birthplace of the great navigator Bartolomeu Dias. The Algarve is also one of the best places in Portugal for family holidays, with many child-friendly beaches, water parks and more.
Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela
The Serra da Estrela natural park is a place of exceptional beauty, an ideal destination for nature lovers. This protected park has the highest mountain peaks in the country, glacial lakes and rushing rivers. Hikers can choose among an extensive network of trails in areas with stunning views, while the region’s fascinating mountain villages make perfect bases for outdoor adventures.
Azores
Azores, also known as the «Hawaii of Europe». A cluster of nine volcanic islets off Portugal, with emerald waters, dazzling lakes, lush meadows, volcanic calderas, gorges and waterfalls. Tours in the Azores reveal some of the most impressive landscapes in Europe. Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores archipelago on the island of São Miguel, is famous for its hot springs and verdant surroundings. It’s a beautiful and charming city with narrow winding lanes, authentic restaurants and unique local architecture.
