A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Cod is nearly an integral aspect of life in Portugal; thus, one must visit a base of the country’s “White Fleet” to truly understand this attachment. Many of the trawler captains during that era were born and raised in Ílhavo, embarking on significant ventures across the North Sea and Atlantic.
Situated on the Costa Alentejana, Sines is a traditional fishing town renowned in Portugal as the birthplace of the esteemed explorer Vasco da Gama. His statue stands with pride adjacent to the castle walls where he spent his youth, and the museum within recounts the achievements of this national figure. Furthermore, Sines has emerged as Portugal’s leading container port, located in a massive industrial complex along the shoreline, separate from the historic district.
The town of Chaves, located in the northern region of Portugal, has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The Romans established a city around the thermal springs and constructed a stone bridge that still displays its Latin inscriptions.
Departing from Lisbon’s western suburbs and ascending into Sintra feels like entering an entirely different dimension. This town is nestled within a verdant mountainous landscape filled with palatial estates, parks, and a medieval fortress. At its heart lies the Palace of Sintra, a former residence of the Portuguese monarchy, which is merely one of the many splendid sites that will captivate your senses.
Portugal’s rich maritime history is filled with captivating narratives. Since the 15th Century, Portuguese explorers competed with the English, Dutch, and Spanish across the world’s oceans.
Bounded by the Tâmega and Douro Rivers, Marco de Canaveses is situated in the granite highlands of Northern Portugal. A mere glimpse of the mountains, evergreen forests, river valleys, and vineyards may inspire you to embark on an exploration.
In 2018, Portugal received the accolade for the World’s Leading Destination, achieving this prestigious recognition for the second consecutive year at the World Travel Awards.
Just 20 minutes north of Lisbon, Vila Franca de Xira is located on the Tagus River, precisely where it broadens into a vast estuary.
Visiting Portugal is an excellent decision, especially for enthusiasts of maritime culture, given the country’s extensive 800-kilometer coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The capital city, Lisbon, is situated at the estuary of the spectacular River Tagus.
Braga, one of the oldest cities in Portugal, served as a significant religious center since the 4th century, evidenced by its enduring archdiocese. A visit to the cathedral is essential, alongside several historical churches, chapels, and monasteries in the vicinity.
We have just returned from Portugal, where we spent several days in Cascais and Sintra.
Iberia offers an abundance of experiences for travelers, establishing this region of Europe among the most sought-after destinations globally. Its extensive coastline, sunlit landscapes, diverse cultures, and exceptional cuisine contribute to its enduring appeal.
Positioned along the Atlantic on the western edge of Europe, Portugal boasts dynamic waves, extensive beaches, charming wine regions, and historic cities. Whether your preference is to savor exquisite vintages in Porto’s cellars, traverse the meandering streets of Alfama in Lisbon, or relax on the Algarve’s southern beaches, it is possible to enrich your visit with the premier experiences in Portugal within a limited timeframe.
While Lisbon and Porto are often highlighted, there exists a wealth of attractions withinPortugalbeyond its charming historic cities. Frompristine beachesand soaring mountain ranges to verdant river valleys, each region showcases unique features across this compact Iberian nation.
Portugal is renowned for its sun, sand, and wines. With stunning coastlines, rolling vineyards, and charming villages, it serves as a fantastic playground for cyclists of all levels. In this article, we will uncover three of the country’s top cycling destinations: the Algarve, Alentejo, and Douro Valley. Moreover, we will highlight the best routes in each region and discuss the ideal times to explore this beautiful country on two wheels.
Small, beautiful, and historic, Portugal is a favorite among travelers from all over the globe. Its fabulous beaches, exciting cities, rich history, and mild climate make it a destination worth exploring. However, the country’s popularity often leads to crowded hotspots. Therefore, we turn to four local experts to share their favorite off-the-beaten-path locations in Portugal. These hidden gems promise a peaceful escape from the throngs of tourists.
Many years ago, as a young backpacker, I made plenty of mistakes when traveling around Portugal – from trying to see everything on one trip to indulging in free appetizers that weren’t really free. Since becoming both an honoraryLisboeta(Lisbon resident) andTripeiro(Porto dweller), I have learned some essentials about the country. Here are the key tips to help you make the most out of your trip to Portugal.
Portugal’s cuisine has been shaped by many factors, from its fertile, sun-baked olive groves and vineyards to its centuries-old love affair with the sea. Every region has its own unique specialties, which you can find in the mix of old-fashionedtascas(taverns) and more cutting-edgerestauranteshelmed by experimental young chefs making waves across the country.
Nestled between Spain and the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a compact country that you could fit into a two-week road trip. This small country boasts a diverse culture, delectable cuisine, and stunning landscapes that range from the rugged coast in the west to the mountainous inland. The cool and lush north contrasts with the flat and sunny south. Ancient Roman, Celtic, and Islamic influences have shaped the customs and language of this land, which has officially been a country for more than 870 years, making it one of the oldest in the world.
Portugal is an ideal destination for a scenic road trip. The roads are generally in good shape, and the nation’s relatively small size allows you to see a diverse array of attractions, even if you have only a few days to spare. With an Iberian soundtrack, you’re all set to hit the open road in Portugal.