Despite its ever-growing popularity, Portugal is still one of Europe’s most affordable tourist hotspots. It’s got everything: a fascinating past, cutting-edge art, breathtaking scenery, and chill, welcoming people. TAP Portugal, the country’s primary airline, has doubled its stopover program to five days, making a visit much more convenient. But what region of the United States best suits your needs?
After reading this article, I’m sure you will Book Your Trip To Portugal Instantly. So, here is our rundown of the top places to see in Portugal.
Faro, the Old Town
The Algarve capital of Faro is characterized by its picturesque whitewashed buildings and roofs, many of which provide stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Since most tourists to the Algarve only get a glimpse of the city from the airport or a transfer bus, it has managed to maintain its Portuguese identity despite its prime tourist position.
The old town’s narrow, winding lanes and dense concentration of historic structures evoke a bygone era, while the cathedral dates back to the 13th century.
Its enormous, fortified tower protects an interior glistening with magnificent azulejo tiles. To the south, on the wild Ilha do Farol, you may find some fantastic beaches that attract more wading birds than visitors.
Lisbon, a Mosaic of Winding Streets
A tiny lane in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon is lined with colorful apartment buildings.
Lisbon, the country’s capital, should be at the top of any tourist’s itinerary while visiting Portugal. Lisbon is an attractive city, with its maze-like alleyways, broad plazas, breathtaking cathedrals, and miradouro lookouts.
From the somewhat shabby glamour of Alfama to the extraordinary magnificence of the Tower of Belem which is one of the oldest of Portugal’s 17 Unesco World Heritage Sites, beauty can be seen around every corner in Lisbon.
Although the number of tourists visiting Lisbon annually is rising, the city is still inexpensive.
There’s never a dull moment in this lively city, whether you’re looking for a gift in the oldest bookstore in the world, devouring Pasteis de Belem custard pastries, or bar hopping in the hip Bairro Alto neighborhood.
Obidos, for a Picture Perfect Visit
One of the cutest corner houses in Portugal’s prettiest town, Obidos, is painted white and yellow.
Located in the Oeste area in central Portugal, Obidos is often regarded as the best preserved Portuguese walled town in the world. Obidos has been influenced by the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Moors during its long history, stretching back to the Paleolithic era.
After passing through Obidos’ tiled entrance, the Porta da Vila, you may expect a pleasant experience. Following the gentle undulations of the hills the town is built upon, the cobbled lanes of the old core wind you through enclaves of charming, whitewashed homes that cluster together beneath standard slate roofs.
Obidos is nestled like a glittering pearl in the palm of a giant, shaky hand, protected by a backdrop of sawtooth defensive walls. Obidos Castle, originally built of limestone and marble, has been converted into a luxurious Pousada where guests may spend the night in style.
The Old Arms Square, which was once used as a teaching field for the king’s squires and knights, is now the location of the yearly Obidos Medieval Market, which takes place every July.There’s no refusing that this is one of Portugal’s loveliest cities. Staying at least one night in the neighborhood will allow you to explore after the day-trippers have departed, when the streets will be much less busy.
Madeira, for Life on a Remote Island
A mountain community in Madeira, Portugal, is characterized by its white cottages with terracotta roofs.
Portugal’s subtropical island offcut, located in the Atlantic Ocean 1078 kilometers (670 miles) southeast of the mainland, is a unique destination because of its exotic flora, mild climate, and, OK, quite a hair-raising approach by plane.
Funchal, the capital, has one of the world’s most fantastic New Year’s Eve celebrations, and the island has long been a popular winter getaway for retirees seeking sunlight. Take the boat to Porto Santo Island, where you’ll discover one of the most stunning sections of beach in all of Portugal. If you have the plan, you should definitely take a look.
Coimbra, a Dreamlike Night
Coimbra, the site of Portugal’s oldest university, was the country’s medieval capital for nearly two hundred years and the birthplace of no fewer than six Portuguese rulers. It is elegant, scholarly, and classically gorgeous. If your travels lead you to the northern areas of Portugal, you must include this city on your itinerary.
Because of its high student population, Coimbra boasts a vibrant café and nightlife scene. The university structure has been existing in some form since the 1200s, adding to its historic allure.
Coimbra has a rich history that many stories and myths ascribe to the city’s Gothic architecture and Moorish walls. After a traditional Portuguese meal and an intimate Fado performance, take a stroll through Coimbra at night, when the city takes on a dreamlike beauty as the candle-like lights contrast with the inky blue sky.
Amarante, Portugal’s Mythical Beauty
The stunning Portuguese village of Amarante is home to this picturesque stone bridge. The Portuguese word for love is “Amar,” It would be hard to resist this sweet-natured charmer at first sight. Amarante is situated on both sides of the river Tamega in the prosperous agricultural area of Minho.
The stunning sights of the lake and the arched stone bridge, Ponte Sobre o Tamega, mirrored in its sparkling waters, have inspired several restaurants and cafes to open. Sao Goncalo, the town’s patron saint, is buried in a chapel of the church of the same name.
Amarante, a town in Portugal dating back to the 4th century BC, is full of allure and is another example of Portugal’s mythical beauty.