Portugal
With everything the incredible small country of Portugal generously offers her visitors, it’s no wonder that Portugal’s heightened popularity continues to increasingly attract those looking for some destination intrigue, cultural immersion and authentic Old Europe experiences.
The welcoming country usually exceeds expectations thanks to stunning naturally landscaped beauty, a dramatic romantic sea coast, sparkling sanded beaches, almost perfect climates throughout, and an abundant rich heritage left behind by Celts, Visigoths, Romans, Knights Templar, and Moors.
Portugal represents Old Europe at its best, preserving deep-seated traditions and protecting her legendary past, while at the same time offering first world amenities. Indeed, throughout the country, you can sense its storied history in today’s local culture scene including traditional music, dance, architecture, and land & sea cuisine as well as in the Portuguese easy-going lifestyle itself which revolves around family and friends.
Everywhere you venture, remnants of Portugal’s extensive history proudly emerge revealing mysterious medieval towns, soaring clifftop castles, exotic luxurious palaces, decorative monasteries, secluded beach coves and ornate churches plus 15 UNESCO world heritage sites.
Thanks to 1,100 miles of Atlantic coastline dotted with alternating golden-hued beaches, dizzying craggy sandstone cliffs, roller coaster hills, and quaint fishing villages, you are sure to encounter breathtaking seascapes when exploring the striking coast.
An added attraction for many travelers is that Portugal, with all it has to offer everyone, on any budget, is today considered the most affordable European destination.
Top Portugal Cities and Regions
Lisbon – Old World charm prevails, high fashion and artisan shops co-exist, soulful Fado guitarists stroll shiny black and white mosaic streets, roller coaster hill-climbing wooden trams, cafés straddle steep cascading city steps dating back to Moorish times leading to the seven neighboring hills dressed by pastel - hued houses.
Algarve - Seaside playground, 149 mile coastline dotted with pastel-hued fishing towns, dramatic rock coves, secluded beaches, luxury golf resorts, storybook mountain villages, provincial market towns.
Cascais – Portugal’s Riviera, former royal seaside hideaway, 30 minutes from Lisbon, elegant summer villas, spectacular turquoise ocean vistas, bustling beachside promenade, charming café-lined city plazas.
Porto – Three-time awarded #1 top European city destination, lauded as Portugal’s heart and soul, rugged Atlantic beaches, authentic Portuguese lifestyle in the country’s oldest region, famous for Port wine and surrounding vineyards along the Douro River.
More Top Portugal Cities and Regions
Coimbra – Vibrant riverfront town, home to 13th c. University of Coimbra, historic medieval old quarter, Conimbriga Roman settlement ruins, authentic Portuguese living.
Evora - Medieval town in the Alentejo region (Portugal’s bread basket), boasts acclaimed architecture from Romans, Visigoths, and Moors.
Faro - Algarve capital with year-round buzz, well suited home base for exploratory day-trips to trendy coastal beaches, upscale resorts, scenic seaside villages, historic sites.
Fatima – World famous pilgrimage site with beautiful commemorative cathedral, welcomes thousands of faithful visitors each year, approximately 1 ½ hr. bus trip from Lisbon.
Lagos – Tranquil traditional fishing village nestled in unspoiled, low-key hidden gem beaches and grottoes, a good base for western Algarve discovery.
Nazare - Famous surfing capital and beach resort, brightly colored artisan shops, local seafood fare and restaurants, lining the broad coastal boardwalk.
Sintra - UNESCO World Heritage National Palace, 10th c. home to Moorish rulers, perched on hillside ornately decorated by royal palaces, fairytale castles, and extravagant mansions.
