Portugal, a country with a rich seafaring heritage, offers a diverse landscape from its 800 kilometers of Atlantic coastline to its mountainous interior and sun-drenched plains. Lisbon, the capital, is a historic city set by the River Tagus, where explorers once embarked on great voyages. Beyond the mainland, the lush island of Madeira and the tranquil Azores beckon visitors with their unique charms.
1. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Lisbon
In Lisbon's suburb of Belém, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos stands as a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery. Commissioned by King Manuel I to honor Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, it's a prime example of Manueline architecture, especially its ornate South Portal. Inside, the cloister and tombs of notable figures like Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões can be found.
2. Oceanário de Lisboa, Lisbon
Lisbon's Oceanário is a family favorite, showcasing diverse ocean habitats. It's one of Europe's largest oceanariums, with a central tank housing sharks and rays, surrounded by smaller tanks that create an illusion of shared space with larger marine animals.
3. Palácio Nacional de Sintra, Lisbon Coast
Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape, is home to the Palácio Nacional de Sintra. Known for its twin conical chimneys, the palace dates back to the 14th century and features regal furnishings and the ornate Sala dos Brasões.
4. Kayaking the Lisbon Coast
Kayaking along the Lisbon coast offers a unique perspective of the region's beaches, bays, and coves. The Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, near Setubal and Sesimbra, provides a stunning backdrop with its ancient sea cliffs and marine reserve.
5. Torre de Belém, Lisbon
The Torre de Belém is a historic symbol of Lisbon and the Age of Discovery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was completed in 1521 as a fortress and features Manueline architecture with maritime motifs.
6. Convento do Cristo, Tomar
The Convento do Cristo in Tomar, founded by the Knights Templar, is a fascinating site with its Charola church and Manueline window. The 16th-century cloisters and hidden staircases add to its allure.
7. Bom Jesus do Monte, Braga
Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga is a grand religious sanctuary featuring a Baroque stairway, chapels, and statues. The climb rewards visitors with panoramic views, or they can opt for the vintage funicular.
8. Hiking the Gerês Mountain Range
The Serra do Gerês in the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês offers hikers a chance to explore one of Europe's last great wildernesses, with granite peaks, lush valleys, and traditional villages.
9. Universidade de Coimbra
The Universidade de Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Portugal's oldest university. Highlights include the Biblioteca Joanina and the Capela de São Miguel.
10. Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, Lisbon
The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian in Lisbon houses an exquisite art collection spanning 4,000 years, including works by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Turner, set within lush gardens.
11. Castelo de Guimarães
The Castelo de Guimarães symbolizes Portugal's culture and tradition. The castle features a central keep and the chapel of São Miguel, where the nation's first monarch was baptized.
12. Torre de Clérigos, Oporto
Oporto's Torre de Clérigos, an 18th-century Baroque tower, offers stunning views of the city and the River Douro from its summit.
13. Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon
The Castelo de São Jorge is a prominent Lisbon landmark with a history dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the ramparts and enjoy views of the city.
14. Sé (cathedral) and Roman Temple, Évora
Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Sé cathedral and the well-preserved Roman Temple, reflecting the city's rich history.
15. Alentejo by Horseback
Exploring the Alentejo region on horseback offers a unique way to experience its countryside and coastal beauty.
16. Mosteiro Pálacio Nacional de Mafra
The National Palace and Monastery of Mafra is a Baroque masterpiece with a lavish library housing over 40,000 rare books.
17. Igreja de Santo António and the Museu Municipal, Lagos
The Municipal Museum in Lagos showcases the region's culture with a diverse collection, while the Igreja de Santo António dazzles with its gilded interior.
18. Silves Castle
Silves Castle, a reminder of Moorish rule, dominates the town with its red sandstone walls and offers a glimpse into the region's past.
19. Cross-Border Zipline, Alcoutim
The world's only cross-border zipline connects Spain and Portugal, offering a thrilling ride across the River Guadiana.
20. Palácio da Bolsa, Oporto
The Palácio da Bolsa in Oporto, a former stock exchange, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning Arabian Room.
21. Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva), Arouca
The Paiva Walkways offer an eight-kilometer hike through the Arouca Geopark, showcasing the region's natural beauty.
22. Côa Valley Archaeological Park (Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa), Vila Nova de Foz Côa
The Côa Valley Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of prehistoric rock drawings.
