20 Best Tourist Attractions Destination in Portugal - Portugal Travel Guide
Portugal is a small country with a lot to see and
do, which makes it relatively easy to explore. Visitors will find a variety of
travel options from the cosmopolitan city of Lisbon to the traditional
villages. If you travel in summer, there are plenty of beaches to enjoy, but
the cultural and architectural attractions are a year-round attraction for
tourists.
Many people start their holidays in Lisbon from the
south. This is the heart of today's Portugal and the nation's cultural centre.
There are many of the country's finest museums and historic buildings, as well
as quaint neighborhoods. Visitors can wander through Barrio Alto's streets and
artist studios or spend a day in the Old Quarter atmosphere.
There are many day trips from Lisbon, but Sintra is
one of the main tourist destinations. Set in the hills outside Lisbon, this
town is centered around the cone-shaped towers of the Palacio Nacional de
Sintra. It's easy to explore a number of interesting sights from here,
including the fairy-tale-like Palacio de Pena and the Castelo dos Mouros ruins.
The Costa do Sol is another popular area close to Lisbon known for its beach
resorts during the summer months. There is no shortage of things to do for sun
seekers.
The city of Porto is just as impressive in its own
unique way. The old town is beautifully situated on a hillside overlooking the
Douro River. The Riberia area is one of the city's main tourist attractions,
with its colorfully painted houses. Small shops and restaurants have been set
up in old restored houses around Praça da Ribeira. Many possible excursions
from Porto are also available.
The islands of Madeira and the Azores are somewhat
off the beaten track in Portugal. Madeira has a pleasant climate throughout the
year and is well equipped for visitors. It's a hot place for Europeans from
northern counties to escape the cold in the winter months. Funchal, which is
also a large cruise ship port, is the main city. The Azores are laid back
islands of green rolling hills and mountains, which are also highly dependent
on tourism.
Visiting Portugal is a remarkably varied
destination. The country is inextricably linked to the sea, and the Atlantic
Ocean coastline is more than 800 kilometers long. Lisbon, the capital, enjoys
an amazing location close to the mouth of the Tajo River. From here,
trailblazing sailors set sail on epic discovery voyages in the 15th and 16th
centuries, and Portugal has since nurtured a proud maritime tradition.
Portugal's interior combines dramatic northern
mountain ranges with the country's vast rolling plains baked in the sun. In the
south, picturesque coves and warm, shallow waters flank some of Europe's best
beaches. Stone-built villages, charming towns and cosmopolitan cities await the
exploration of historic palaces and castles, museums and monasteries. And
traveling to Portugal can also mean visiting the green, subtropical island of
Madeira-the "Garden Island"-or the isolated, yet quiet archipelago of
the Azores.
01. Mosteiro dos
Jerónimos, Lisbon
Belém is synonymous with the golden age of discovery
in Portugal. In the 15th and 16th centuries, intrepid navigators set sail on
long and dangerous journeys to chart unknown waters and map new territories
from the shores of this suburb of Lisbon. One such sailor, Vasco da Gama,
discovered the sea route to India in 1498 and, in honor of his achievement,
King Manuel I commissioned a monument that became a permanent symbol of the
amazing era of conquest and expansion in the country. Today, the Mosteiro dos
Jerónimos is one of the most cherished and revered buildings in the country and
must be seen on the agenda of every tourist.
The church and monastery embody the spirit of the
age and feature some of the finest examples of Manueline architecture in
Portugal; the beautifully beautiful decoration on the South Portal is amazing.
The beautiful cloister is also exuberant in the interior. The church properly
houses Vasco da Gama's tomb and other national figureheads, including Luís de
Camões, Portugal's greatest poet and discovery chronicler.
02. Oceanário de
Lisboa, Lisbon
Probably Portugal's most popular and family-friendly
visitor attraction, the oceanarium in Lisbon is brilliantly designed to
highlight the diverse ocean habitats in the world. This is one of the best and
largest oceanariums in Europe, which contains a wide range of fish and marine
animals. Four separate seas and landscapes recreate the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian
and Antarctic oceans' ecosystems. A huge central tank, visible from various
levels, teems with shark, ray and many other deep finned wonders. The
transparent design of the plexiglass is such that smaller tropical species in
separate aquariums around the main tank appear to swim with their larger
cousins. The open-air landscapes, in which penguins, sea otters and other cute
and cuddly birds and mammals coexist in carefree harmony, complement this
amazing spectacle.
03. Palácio
Nacional de Sintra, Lisbon Coast
Nestled in the lap of a wooded mountain range, the
stunning location of Sintra is sufficient reason to visit this charming, green
city. In fact, UNESCO recognizes the destination as a cultural landscape of
World Heritage, which is its beauty and the importance of the collection of
historic visitor attractions in the old town of Sintra Velha and its
surroundings. Sintra is a favorite summer retreat for Portugal's kings and
queens and an attractive destination for many writers and poets, including Lord
Byron and William Beckford. The old town is a labyrinth of paved streets lined with
beautiful town houses painted in pastel hues of pink, mustard and lilac. The
narrow streets surround a pretty central square that's dominated by the
wonderful Palácio Nacional de Sintra.
Sintra's National Palace, easily recognized by its
huge conical chimneys, dates back to the late 14th century and is Portugal's
oldest surviving palace. The building is nicely furnished and set on several
floors, many of which convey a unique theme and are accordingly decorated. A highlight
is the magnificent Sala dos Brasões, a glittering dome hall decorated with the
arms of 72 noble Portuguese families.
04. Kayaking the
Lisbon Coast
Taking the sea by kayak to explore the coast of
Lisbon is an enjoyable sea excursion. In addition to providing the sightseeing
experience with an extra dimension, paddling the coastline is an excellent
excuse for exercising in a salt-laced, pristine environment. The proximity of
Lisbon to the ocean enables a wide range of exciting water sports, and the
discovery of the beaches, bays and coves between the Portuguese capital and the
resort town of Cascais is a fun way to enjoy a day out. Outside the area, the
crystal clear waters of the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, which includes
places such as Setubal and Sesimbra, form a unique landscape of magnificent,
ancient sea cliffs, which are full of birdlife. Most of the coastline is
located in a marine reserve-a sanctuary that includes the beautifully
picturesque beach of Ribeira do Cavalo within its borders.
05. Torre de Belém,
Lisbon
One of Portugal's best-loved historic monuments and
a Lisbon icon, the Torre de Belém stands as a symbol of the Age of Discovery
and the voyages of exploration undertaken in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Completed in 1521 as a fortress to defend the
approaches to the Tajo River, the tower is considered a military architectural
masterpiece. Designed by Francisco de Arruda in the Manueline style, the façade
is made of beautifully carved stone, typical of maritime motifs such as twisted
ropes and the armillary sphere. The decoration is increased by an impressive
Renaissance loggia. The cultural importance of the tower is such that it has
been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
06. Convento do
Cristo, Tomar
The charming river town of Tomar is dominated by a
powerful castle shielding the Convento do Cristo, one of Portugal's most
outstanding historical attractions. The Convent of Christ, founded in 1160 as
the headquarters of the Order of the Templar Knights, is as amazing as it is
mysterious, its tangible and distressing masonic heritage. At its center is the
medieval Charola, the original Templar church, richly decorated and exuding the
strange symbolism of the Order of Christ. Manueline flourishes in the cloisters
of the 16th century and teases visitors with their hidden spiral staircases. And
the convent's magnificent Manueline window, designed by master sculptor Diogo
de Arruda, remains one of the most architecturally appealing aspects of any
building found in Portugal.
07. Bom Jesus do
Monte, Braga
On a wooded slope six kilometers east of Braga, Bom
Jesus do Monte, Portugal's largest religious sanctuary, is one of the country's
most important pilgrimage sites. Comprising a monumental Baroque Escadaria
(stairway) and the church of Bom Jesus, this spectacular complex also features
several chapels adorned with sculpted scenes from the Passion of Christ, fountains
positioned at various points on the long ascent, and statues of biblical,
mythological and symbolic figures.
Climbing the lower section of the ornamental granite
staircase, which is 116 meters long, is slowly zigzagging past a steep Sacred
Way with chapels showing the 14 cross stations. In the middle, the white,
interleaved Escadório dos Cinco Sentidos depicts the five senses through a
finely carved statuary. The final section is the staircase of the three virtues
that leads to the church, representing faith, hope and charity. The inspiring
panorama of the surrounding countryside will reward your efforts. A funicular
1882 vintage whisks visitors to the top in just three minutes for the less
active.
08. Hiking the
Gerês Mountain Range
The Serra do Gerês is an amazing mountain range of
beauty found in the remote Minho region of northern Portugal. The granite peaks
that define the character of this vast national park number among the highest
and most spectacular in the country are located in the glorious Parque Nacional
da Peneda-Gerês, one of the top places to visit in Portugal. One of Portugal's
greatest natural attractions, the Gerês Mountains attract walkers, hikers and
outdoor lovers to one of Europe's last great wilderness, a strong and rough
landscape known for its lush valleys with shimmering lakes, scattered
traditional villages, rare flora and fauna, and a way of life that has all but
disappeared from the rest of the country's mountain range. The area is crossed
by ancient granite trails that are marked as a short walk or a challenging day
trek for hikers to follow. The length of most tracks is 10 to 16 kilometers and
varies in grade.
09. Universidade de
Coimbra
The Universidade de Coimbra is the oldest learning
center in Portugal, founded by King Dinis in 1290. The historic buildings of
Velha Universidade or ancient Coimbra University, recognized by UNESCO as a
World Heritage Site, surround a beautiful central colonnade square, the Paço
das Escolas. The university's Alta and Sofia wings-a former royal
residence-reward visitors with a number of star features, including the amazing
Biblioteca Joanina, a sumptuously decorated library set up by King João V in
1717. Those with a head for heights can climb the landmark 18th-century clock
tower for a grand perspective over Coimbra, one of the country's most
attractive cities.
10. Museu Calouste
Gulbenkian, Lisbon
Lisbon is blessed with some world-class museums and
the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is one of the finest. The museum's collection is
about 6,000 pieces, all of which belonged to one man-Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian,
a wealthy Armenian oil magnate who, after his death in 1955, bequeathed his
priceless hoard to the Portuguese nation. This is simply one of Europe's finest
art collections. The exhibits range from classical and oriental antiquity to
early 20th century European art for more than 4,000 years. No other museum has
such a variety of artworks from so many places in the world, and visitors can
spend hours exploring treasures such as the 11 Roman medallions found in Egypt,
illustrated manuscripts from the 16th century, masterpieces by Rubens,
Rembrandt and Turner, furniture by Louis XV and Louis XVI, and jewelry made by
Rene Lalique in Art Nouveau. The museum is located in beautiful lush gardens,
especially during the summer months, perfect for picnics.
11. Castelo de
Guimarães
The birthplace of the nation and where the first
monarch of Portugal, Dom Afonso Henriques, was born in 1110, Guimarães was once
the capital of the kingdom of "Portucale." Recognized by UNESCO as a
World Heritage Site for its collection of historical monuments in and around
the center of the old town, it is the Castelo de Guimarães that best symbolizes
the role played by the city in defining the nation.
Originally built in the 10th century, but
substantially extended two centuries later by Henry of Burgundy, the fortress,
surrounded by massive battlements and fortified towers, consists of a central
gate-the Torre de Menagem. Dom Afonso was baptized in the small Romanesque
chapel of São Miguel, located just outside the walls of the castle, and
visitors can see the font in the small space. An inspiring walk along the
ramparts, but climb the keeper for the best views.
12. Torre de
Clérigos, Oporto
One of Oporto's defining landmarks is the spindly,
needle-like Torre de Clérigos. This slender tower, located 75 meters above the
streets and overlooking the old town, was built by Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th
century and exudes a bold Baroque feel. The tower was designed as part of the
Igreja dos Clérigos, completed in 1763 and was the tallest building in Porto at
the time. In order to reach the top, visitors must climb up to 200 steps, but
the huffing and puffing will all be forgotten when you enjoy magnificent views
of the city and the Douro River.
13. Castelo de São
Jorge, Lisbon
The spindly, needle-like Torre de Clérigos is one of
Oporto's defining landmarks. This slender tower, 75 meters above the streets
and overlooking the old town, was built in the 18th century by Nicolau Nasoni
and exudes a bold Baroque feel. The tower was designed as part of the Igreja
dos Clérigos, which was completed in 1763 and was then Porto's tallest
building. To reach the top, visitors must climb up to 200 steps, but when you
enjoy magnificent views of the city and the Douro River, huffing and puffing
will all be forgotten.
It's great fun to explore the castle. Visitors can
walk through the ramparts and the castle towers, one of which, Torre de
Ulisses, has an obscure camera that shows the city's views on the inner walls.
The walls contain an archeological site with the remains of the original palace
of Alcáçova and ancient Moorish foundations. The observation terrace offers the
most spectacular views of Lisbon and the river near the entrance.
14. Sé (cathedral)
and Roman Temple, Évora
Set deep in the sun-baked province of Alentejo in
southern Portugal, Évora is one of the most enchanting cities in the country.
The Romans settled here in 57 BC, but the city began to take shape under the
Moorish rule, its labyrinth of narrow lanes and alleys typical of Islamic urban
design. Christian reconquest saw the building of the Sé, the impressive
cathedral of Évora and one of the old town's many amazing visitor attractions. This
celebrated religious building, which was consecrated in 1204, combines the
Romanesque with the Gothic and Baroque, and after admiring the interior,
visitors can reach the roof, which offers fantastic views over the surrounding
area. Nearby is the Roman Temple, Évora's most iconic monument. This is the
most impressive Roman building in the country, built in the 2nd or 3rd century
AD. In fact, the historic legacy of Évora has been declared a World Heritage
Site by UNESCO.
15. Alentejo by
Horseback
Whether you follow a narrow, gurgling stream, cross
a flower-spotted meadow, or plodding on a soft, sandy path, one of the great
things in the Alentejo is to explore the region on horseback. The province is
known for its love affair with horses; the beautiful and mild-mannered Lusitano
race is synonymous with this part of Portugal, especially in cities such as
Alter do Chão, home to the stud of Coudelaria de Alter. Leisurely rides in the
countryside or along the coast can be enjoyed, led by expert guides born in the
saddle. Comporta is a favorite seaside destination; inland, head to places such
as Alcácer do Sal, on the Sado River, and Ourique, deep in the fresh water.
16. Mosteiro
Pálacio Nacional de Mafra
Mafra's majestic National Palace and Monastery
floats over Mafra's pleasant country town and is an outstanding example of
grandiose excess. Work on what was originally supposed to be a simple monastery
and basilica began in 1717, commissioned by Dom João V to honor the birth of
the first child of the king. But as Brazilian wealth swelled in the royal
coffers, the project took on a new dimension and eventually a huge Baroque
palace was built, lavishly decorated with exotic furniture and numerous works
of art. Access to the monastery, palace, church and basilica is provided
through a tour. The undoubted highlight is the sumptuous library of marble
floors, in which more than 40,000 rare and precious books line wooden bookcases
in the style of rococo - one of Europe's most important collections of
manuscripts and literature.
17. Igreja de Santo
António and the Museu Municipal, Lagos
The most striking collection of archeology and
ethnography in the Algarve is the Municipal Museum in Lagos. The beautifully
eclectic display of local crafts, curiosities and artifacts perfectly illustrates
the diverse culture and heritage of the region and includes items such as a
cork-made altarpiece and a realistic model of an imaginary Algarve village in a
homemade scale. A highlight is the impressive Opus Vermiculatum Roman Mosaic,
which was discovered in 1933 by Dr José Formosinho, the museum's founder. The
tours conclude with a visit to the Igreja de Santo António and a brilliant
interior with ornate gold carvings and decorative azulejos. Note that the
museum is closed for renovations until January, 2019.
18. Silves Castle
Like Xelb, Silves was once the capital of the
Moorish Algarve, and the Arabs called the al-Gharb region. The city was
renowned as a learning centre, a place where Islamic writers, philosophers and
geographers gathered during the early 12th century. The Moors built a powerful
castle on an elevated position overlooking the city to protect the inhabitants.
The fortress, later captured by the Crusaders, is today a permanent reminder of
Moorish rule and Christian reconquest. It is the most impressive historical
monument in the Algarve, and the pleasant river town of Silves below with its
huge red sandstone walls with an inviting ochre glow. Visit during early August
and revel in the annual Medieval Festival set outside the sturdy battlements.
19. Cross-Border
Zipline, Alcoutim
This is one of the country's most audacious and
radical tourist attractions, spanning Spain and Portugal and currently the only
cross-border zipline in the world. The line connects Sanlúcar de Guadiana in
the Huelva province of Spain with Alcoutim in the far north of the Algarve,
measuring 720 meters and crossing the wide and meandering Guadiana River
between the two countries. Participants, fully equipped in safety harnesses and
helmets, start their flight from a departure platform high above the river
overlooking Sanlúcar's sleepy hamlet. They cross the river at speeds between 70
and 80 kilometers per hour, flying literally through time, gaining an hour due
to the difference in time between the two countries. Thrilling and completely
original, the ride offers a completely different experience for visitors to the
Algarve, and you can't boast about traveling in less than one minute from one
country to another every day!
20. Palácio da
Bolsa, Oporto
The beautiful Palácio da Bolsa, the former stock
exchange building in the city, is an attractive medley of visitor attractions
in Porto. The palace, built by merchants in the mid-19th century on a site
where the monastery of São Francisco once stood, is located in the border of
the old city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The glittering interior
reflects the wealth that flowed into the city at the time, and a tour of the
ornate rooms and galleries reveals such an extravagant grandeur and richness as
any royal palace. This opulence is embodied in the amazing Salão Árabe, the
Arab Room. Inspired by the Alhambra in
Granada, the magnificently gilded salon is wrapped in blue and gold
Moorish-style decoration that shimmers like Aladdin's cave.
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