Well-preserved medieval towns, picturesque villages, idyllic shores and captivating mountain landscapes. Ten wonderful destinations in Portugal to add to your list for your upcoming trips.
Lisbon is a wonderful city that offers everything you need from a getaway in Europe: culture, unique sights, intriguing architecture, and great food. But if you've already visited the Portuguese capital and want to see something different, the Portugal has many cities - gems and enchanting coastal and mountain places that can satisfy even the most demanding traveler. These are some of the country's best of.
Sintra
If you have an 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 lies a fairytale town - 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 Palácio de Monserrate with its beautiful botanical garden are its main highlights.
Porto
Portugal's second-largest city has so many charms that visitors never tire of the sights and endless strolls. Set along the mouth of the Douro River in the country's north, Porto is one of Europe's oldest 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 renowned Port wine wherever you are.
Douro Valley
One of Portugal's most beautiful regions lies east of Porto. Here, the Rio Douro flows between soaring slopes lined 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
An 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
Portuguese people hold a special affection 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 open-air cafés and restaurants. Another historic town in the region well worth visiting is Guimarães, often referred to as 'the cradle of the Portuguese nation,' as Afonso Henriques, the country's first king, was born here. The city's historic center is on UNESCO's 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 magical place to spend a few days. Within its 14th-century walls, narrow, winding alleys lead to impressive monuments and the town's picturesque square. But beyond being a city- museum, Évora is a lively university town, with many restaurants serving excellent local cuisine.
Coimbra
Portugal's most atmospheric university city. The beautiful medieval quarter of Coimbra is home to 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 the day at Portugal dos Pequenitos, a theme park with miniature Portuguese monuments.
Algarve
With dramatic coastlines, golden-red sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and excellent year-round weather, 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 towns 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 a family holiday, 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 extraordinary beauty, an ideal destination for nature lovers. This protected park has the country's highest peaks, glacial lakes, and rushing rivers. Hikers can choose from an extensive network of trails in areas with stunning views, while the region's captivating 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 Europe's most spectacular landscapes. Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores archipelago on the island of São Miguel, is renowned for its hot springs and verdant surroundings. It's a beautiful and charming city with narrow winding lanes, authentic restaurants, and unique local architecture.
