Portugal is a country rich in history as well as society, with stunning architecture, gorgeous beaches, as well as tasty food. From discovering the enchanting roads of Lisbon to sunbathing on the Algarve coast, there's no shortage of amazing things to see and do in Portugal. Here are the 25 best things to experience in this gorgeous country.
1. Visit the Belem Tower
The Belem Tower is one of the most renowned landmarks in Lisbon, located at the mouth of the Tagus River. The tower was built in the 16th century as a symbol of Portugal's maritime power and also expedition, and also today it is a UNESCO Globe Heritage Website. Take an assisted excursion to discover the history of the tower as well as delight in spectacular views from the top.
2. Explore the Alfama Area
The Alfama area in Lisbon is just one of the earliest as well as most picturesque in the city. With its narrow patched roads, conventional tile-fronted buildings, and vivid ambience, it's simple to see why it is among Lisbon's most popular tourist locations. Take a stroll with the winding streets, stop in among the many standard taverns for some scrumptious Portuguese food, as well as soak up the enchanting ambience.
3. Go To the Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Abbey is a sensational example of Portuguese Gothic style as well as a symbol of the nation's Age of Discovery. The monastery was constructed in the 16th century to honor Vasco da Gama's voyage to India and also is now a museum. Make certain to take a directed tour to learn more about the history of the structure as well as admire the detailed carvings and also lovely stained glass home windows.
4. Take a Stroll With Sintra
Sintra is a charming community located simply outside of Lisbon, recognized for its gorgeous royal residences as well as castles. See the Palácio Nacional de Sintra to see its strikingly ornate inside, or explore the hilltop Castelo dos Mouros to absorb scenic sights of the surrounding countryside. Sintra is a preferred outing location, but it's well worth investing a few days to completely explore all it has to supply.
5. Delight in the Beaches of the Algarve
The Algarve is a magnificent region in southerly Portugal, known for its lovely beaches as well as crystal-clear waters. Whether you favor a quiet, private beach or a busy visitor resort, there's something for everybody in the Algarve. Several of the best coastlines to see include Praia da Rocha, Praia do Vau, as well as Praia do Camilo.
6. Discover the Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is a stunning area in north Portugal, well-known for its wineries and also stunning surroundings. Take a breathtaking drive through the valley, stopping at numerous vineyards to sample the neighborhood wines, or book a watercraft trip for a special viewpoint of the wineries. Whether you're a wine lover or just seeking a peaceful outing, the Douro Valley is a must-visit location.
7. See the Sanctuary of Porto
The Cathedral of Porto is a spectacular example of Romanesque design, situated in the heart of the city. The sanctuary goes back to the 12th century and also is known for its ornate carvings as well as stunning discolored glass home windows. Take a led scenic tour to learn about the history of the building and admire its beauty from the inside.
8. Explore the Streets of Porto
Porto is a lovely city with a rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the beautiful architecture, including the traditional azulejo-tiled buildings. Visit the Ribeira area for a preference of typical Portuguese life, or drop in among the many cafés as well as bars for a drink and a bite to eat.
9. Visit the National Royal Residence of Queluz
The National Royal Residence of Queluz is a magnificent baroque royal residence located just outside of Lisbon. The royal residence was constructed in the 18th century as a summer season home for the Portuguese royal household and is now a gallery. Make sure to take a directed trip to learn about the background of the royal residence as well as admire its beautiful insides, consisting of the grand hall, the elaborate dining room, and also the sensational yards.
10. Explore the Bairro Alto Neighborhood
The Bairro Alto area in Lisbon is understood for its vibrant night life and also bohemian environment. Take a stroll through the streets and also appreciate the colorful structures, or stop in one of the many bars and also clubs for a drink and some real-time music. Bairro Alto is the perfect area for a night out in Lisbon.
11. Visit the São Jorge Castle
The São Jorge Castle is a magnificent fortress situated in the heart of Lisbon The castle goes back to the 11th century and supplies awesome views of the city. Take a led trip to learn about the background of the castle and appreciate its well-preserved wall surfaces, towers, as well as parapets.
12. Take pleasure in a Pastel de Nata in Lisbon.
A visit to Lisbon would not be complete without attempting a pastel de nata, the city's well-known egg sharp pastry. Made with half-cracked puff bread, creamy custard dental filling, and a cleaning of cinnamon and sugar, pastéis de nata are the best sweet treat. Make certain to try one (or numerous!) from one of the city's lots of traditional pastelarias.
13. Check Out the Roman Ruins of Conimbriga
Conimbriga is a historic website in central Portugal, house to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the nation. The site includes an unspoiled vacation home, bathhouses, and also a forum, in addition to numerous mosaics and various other artefacts. Take a directed excursion to learn about the history of the website and also admire the unspoiled damages.
14. Explore the Streets of Coimbra
Coimbra is a historic city situated in main Portugal, known for its sensational style and rich social heritage. Take a stroll via the streets and admire the stunning structures, website consisting of the stunning Biblioteca Joanina, one of the earliest and also most beautiful libraries on the planet.
15. See the Abbey of Batalha
The Monastery of Batalha is a spectacular example of Portuguese Gothic architecture, situated in main Portugal. The monastery was built in the 14th and 15th centuries to celebrate Portugal's success in the Fight of Aljubarrota as well as is currently a UNESCO Globe Heritage Website. Make certain to take a led tour to learn about the history of the building and admire its gorgeous stained glass windows, elaborate makings, as well as detailed rock work.
16. Explore the Alentejo Region
The Alentejo region is a backwoods located in southerly Portugal, recognized for its moving hillsides, enchanting towns, as well as standard lifestyle. Take a picturesque drive with the countryside, stopping in among the many towns to example the neighborhood food as well as take in the relaxed ambience.