If you ever want to have your Europe itinerary sorted out, then there is one country you definitely should check off of your bucket list. Plan to travel to Portugal! Portugal is located on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula, which treats you to a diverse landscape. From verdant farmlands to quaint medieval towns resembling straight out of fairy tales, from undulating vineyards to the most jaw-dropping beaches in the world, Portugal is one of Europe’s darling destinations. We are about to read about the top places to visit when you travel to Portugal.
Best Time To Travel to Portugal
Portugal is admired due to its pleasant climate. This is definitely a cherry on top of its idyllic medieval charm, reflected in its colonial architecture that links you back in time when it ruled Brazil and Macau in China. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on one side and sharing a border with Spain, Portugal boasts of some UNESCO world heritage sites trailing its rich history. Travel to Portugal to see them all!
The best time to travel to Portugal is between (March-May), when the sun is sparkling after a long winter. Even the fall is great for a visit, as the weather is few degrees away from the grasp of winter. Probably the perfect time to visit the vineyards is when the grape harvest is in full swing. However, winters offer a fair amount of sunlight and can be utilized to visit the cities and inland areas. Summers (June-August) can be scorching, even though most people head to the beaches to enjoy the southern European climate.
Why Should You Travel to Portugal?
Portugal is a one size fits all kind of destination, where there is a little something for everyone. Hop aboard a relaxing ride at the countryside vineyard to go wine tasting, or slip into your hiking boots to explore some rugged outdoor adventure spots. Portugal is a country that never disappoints. Let’s explore some popular destinations as we travel to Portugal!
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Table of Contents
Travel to Portugal: Visiting Lisbon
Welcome to Lisbon! When you travel to Portugal, visit its capital, situated along the banks of the Tagus River. A city emerging from the ancient ruins, Lisbon is lined with alleys but with pulsating city life. Strolling across the streets of Lisbon exposes you to a cultural extravaganza, connecting you to the strands of a glorious past while you get lost in the mesmerizing beauty of the city.
One of the most prestigious locations of Lisbon is an acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage site called Mosteiro Dos Jeronimos, or Jeronimos Monastery. It demonstrates a quintessential masterpiece of Manueline architecture commissioned by King Manuel I in 1601. The monastery is a classic example of a fusion between the Gothic-Renaissance and Regal Christian. When you travel to Portugal, art lovers can delve into the captivating works of great artists like Lichtenstein, Hockney, Warhol, and Pollock at the Museu Colecao Berardo.
One of the most coveted spots of Lisbon is the Tower of Ulysses, or Castelo De Sao Jorge, giving you a bird’s eye view of the city’s red rooftops and river. But one of the best takers is Lisbon’s nightlife. Be it old drinking pubs or brassy jazz clubs, Lisbon comes alive after sunset!
Travel to Portugal: Visiting Porto
Lining the banks of Rio Duro is the city of Porto. Enticing, yet edgy, it opens before you like a pop-up book dotted with quaint everyday life. It’s from this quintessential place that the country derived its name and the legendary Port wine we are familiar with. One of the showstoppers of Porto is the city of Ribeira, a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site with its snaking medieval alleys leading to the sparkling Duoro River. Catch up with the locals at the sprawling street side cafes and bars located in the district square.
Don’t miss stopping by one of its hole-in-the-wall taverns when you travel to Portugal and make a stop in Porto. Be sure to grab a bite of Franceshina sandwich and some authentic Porto wine. Soak in the resplendence of Duoro River from the Pont DeDom Luis I, a double-deck metal arch bridge joining Porto and Villa Nova De Gaia. Embrace the Gothic-style architectural splendor of the Igreja De Sao Francisco with lavish baroque features. And last but not least, when you travel to Portugal, feel the privilege of stepping into the charming aura of Livraria Lello, the place which claims the birth of the famous Harry Potter book by author J.K. Rowling.
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Travel to Portugal: Visiting Sintra
If you ever wished to visit your favorite fairy tale land in real life, then this is it: Sintra. Picture a charming town with green pastures dotted with pastel-hued manors, quietly rolling down the blue Atlantic. Even Lord Byron waxed lyrical about Sintra’s glorious beauty. “Lo! Cintra’s glorious Eden intervenes, in a variegated maze of mount and glen.” You will be awestruck at the verdant beauty and historical heritage of this place, declared as one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. Sintra is definitely not to be missed when you travel to Portugal.
Behold the vibrant colors and ramparts of the Pena Palace, the downward spirals of the Initiation well, unfolding mysteries of Templar Knights. Stroll across the Parque De Pena or discover the neo-gothic architectural splendor of the Chapel Regaleira, with its flamboyant frescoes, fountains, and gargoyles.
Travel to Portugal: Visiting Algarve
If you think you need to catch perfect European summer vibes, then wait until you travel to Portugal and one of its popular beach destinations in the south, the Algarve. From dramatic cliffs to roaring sea waves, scalloped islands to drool-worthy beaches, Algarve is a treat for surfers and hikers. Soak up the sun at one of the iconic spots known as Benagil Cave, an expansive cave peering into the bright blue sky through a hole on the top.
The Algarve is a postcard of soothing candy colored homes stacked along in perfect contrast with the peach sand beaches. Hop in one of the boats to go fishing in crystalline waters or relax in one of the beach resorts in magnificent Algarve.
Travel to Portugal: Visiting Evora
A historic town dating back to 2000 years, here, you can explore the ruins of the pillars of the Roman temple built between second and third centuries. Step into time through the labyrinthine alleys of Evora to capture the architectural beauty of yesteryear. The elaborate Moorish courtyards, sparkling fountains, Gothic turrets and cathedral cloisters resonate with an old world charm. Catch up with the locals at Paraca Do Giraldo square to enjoy some coffee and delicious Alentejan cuisine.
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Travel to Portugal: Visiting Azores
If you want to explore nature in its purest form, then head over to Azores. Amid the vast azure of the Atlantic Ocean, find your soul at the Azores. This archipelago is a cluster of nine volcanic islands, ideally popular for first-class whale watching and hot mineral springs.
Azores is a subtropical UNESCO biosphere reserve in a transatlantic stopover between Europe and the U.S., as well as a popular retreat center. If you want to enjoy nature in Jurassic technicolor with the lush blue-green landscape in view, then Sao Miguel is a tourist’s paradise. Slip into your hiking gear to stroll around the famous Lagoa De Fogo, lined with vibrant hydrangeas lighting up your eyes. Adventurers can set out on a canoeing excursion in and around the islands. Savor some mouthwatering seafood at Cais 20 during your travel to Portugal.
Portugal is one of those dream destinations you don’t want to miss a chance to visit. We hope you have a chance to enjoy these gorgeous cities and towns the next time you travel to Portugal!
WANT TO READ MORE?
Want to travel to Portugal and Spain? Check out Spain and Portugal Trip: The Perfect 8 Day Itinerary.
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