By Introduction
Portugal is a diminutive nation but full of places you wouldn’t want to miss. From lively cities to sleepy coastal towns, there is something for everyone. I have been around Portugal and wish to share some of best places to visit in portugal
Lisbon: The Capital City
Lisbon is the heartbeat of Portugal. On my initial visit, I was flabbergasted by the vibrant streets and aging trams. For example, Belém Tower as well as Jerónimos Monastery are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Strolling throughout the Alfama neighborhood with its tiny lanes and traditional Fado songs was like going back in time.
Porto: The Wine City
Porto is famous for its wine, especially Port wine. The city lies on Douro River where one can take a boat trip to see the beautiful scenery. Ribeira which refers to the old town abounds with charming roads while Dom Luís I Bridge offers panoramic views over the city.I loved visiting wineries where you can try out famous Port wines.
The Algarve: A Beach Too Much
When you are a beach fan, the Algarve is your destination. Portugal’s southern coast is lined with gold beaches and high cliffs. For instance, I was in Lagos for a few days, sunbathing on the beach and visiting Benagil caves. The water is clear and good for swimming while the sunset views are stunning.
Sintra: The Land of Fairy Tales
One could say Sintra is like a real fairy tale. The town has palaces and gardens all over. My favorite palace was Pena Palace because of its bright colors and the hill it stands on. Another place to visit is Moorish Castle which has secret tunnels and hidden treasures such as Quinta da Regaleira.
Coimbra: University City
One of the oldest European universities is found in Coimbra. Especially, there are many beautiful aspects to the university including Joanina Library with its highly ornate decorating style. Like most ancient places, history remains within city boundaries where you can walk through the old streets as well as visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha.
Madeira: The Island Getaway
The Atlantic Ocean has made Madeira a green and lush island. It is a destination for those who love nature. I hiked through Laurisilva Forest, which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, and walked on the Cabo Girão Skywalk seeing the view from there. Madeira is also renowned all over the world for its wines and flowers, while Funchal, its capital, features a vibrant market selling tropical fruits.
Évora: A Step Back in Time
While Évora is small it has an interesting history. You should visit the ancient city walls as well as the Roman Temple which is still in good condition. When you are walking around this town, you will feel like you are back in time. Moreover, I went to see Chapel of Bones which turned out to be quite scary yet captivating at the same time. Situated in Portugal’s Alentejo region and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal
Aveiro is often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal” because it has canals with policers – brightly colored boats sailing them. This city has its own charm and if you have time, take part in a boat tour across these channels to explore more about Aveiro. Wandering through narrow lanes filled with sweet aromas and tasting local delicacies such as ovos moles was my favorite thing to do there.
Braga: The Pious Heart
It is one of the oldest cities in Portugal, and it’s noted for its numerous churches. The most popular is Bom Jesus do Monte which has an attractive staircase leading up to the church. This city also harbors Braga Cathedral which is Portuguese’s oldest one. I found Braga peaceful and highly historical.
The Azores: A Nest for Adventurers
Azores are a group of volcanic islands located in the Atlantic Ocean. They are perfect for thrill-seekers. I had done whale watching, walked through volcanic landscapes, and swam in natural hot springs.Nazare: Surfers’ Eden
Nazare: A Surfer’s Dream
Nazare is renowned for its gigantic waves that lure surfers from all over the globe. Even if you are not a surfer it is fantastic just observing waves as they crash against the shore. There are also beautiful beaches within its environs as well as a funicular ride that takes you up a cliff with stunning views of the area..
Cascais The Coastal Gem
If you plan to have just a day trip near Lisbon, then Cascais is your ideal destination. There are lovely beaches in this town, an open-air market full of life, and streets that have interesting shops and cafes along their sides. At that time I had spent on the beach and visited Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliff hanging over the sea.
Guimarães: The Birthplace of Portugal
It has been referred to as the birthplace of Portugal because it was where the first king of Portugal was born. In Guimaraes, there are historical spots such as the Castle of Guimaraes and the Palace of Dukes of Braganza. Wandering through its medieval streets, and past ancient landmarks gave me an impression I’d traveled back in time.
Conclusion
From historical towns to stunning beaches, Portugal is a country full of amazing places to explore. Every place has its unique characteristic and I can’t wait to return for more visits. History buffs, natural admirers, or those who just want to relax will find something special for them in Portugal. So pack your bags and prepare yourself for an adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time to visit Portugal?
The springtime (April – June) and fall (September – October) are the best seasons to visit Portugal because they have good weather and low numbers of tourists.
- Is Portugal good for families?
Portugal is extremely family-friendly, having many activities and attractions that are suitable for kids.
- Which language do Portuguese people use?
Portuguese is the main language spoken in this country although English is generally used by many people, especially in tourist areas.
- Do I need a visa to go to Portugal?
It depends on your nationality. People from EU countries, the USA and others don’t need visas for short periods of stay.
- How long should I spend in portugal?
I would say you should allow at least 7-10 days if you want to see all the highlights of Portugal.
