Top Tourist Destinations in Portugal

Portugal is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal is one of Europe’s most visited countries due to its idyllic climate, affordable travel costs and exceptional attractions. Portugal’s varied geography ranges from the verdant mountains, vineyards , rolling farmland, medieval villages, to the glamorous beaches along the southern coastline. Also belonging to Portugal but lying in the Atlantic Ocean are the archipelagos of Azores and Madeira, known for their lush landscapes and flower gardens.
Inextricably linked with the sea, the country has more than 800 kilometers of enticing Atlantic Ocean coastline. Lisbon, the capital city, enjoys a stunning location near the mouth of the River Tagus. From Lisbon, mariners set sail in the 15th and 16th centuries on epic voyages of discovery, and Portugal established a vast maritime empire.
An overview of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Coimbra
Coimbra is a charming town situated by the Mondego River in Central Portugal. The best thing to do here is to walk around and explore the various historical attractions.

Azores
The island of Azores in the Atlantic Ocean attracts visitors for their volcanic mountains, whale watching, hot mineral springs, and quaint seaside towns.

Aveiro
Aveiro is a picturesque city in the heart of Portugal dotted with gondolas, speed boats, historic sites, architectural wonders, beautiful beaches and fantastic culinary delights all of which attract many visitors.

Evora
Evora is a 2000 year old Roman city with a well preserved Old-Town which shelters more than 4000 historic structures such as Roman temples, walls etc.

Porto
Porto is home to the world famous Port Wine and this busy city attracts tourists in hoards. Porto is spread along the hills that overlook the Douro River in northern Portugal. A common tourist spot is the Ribeira along the river that is lined with cafes, live music, and restaurants.

Madeira
Madeira is a beautiful oasis in the atlantic Ocean between Potugal and North Africa. It boasts of lush green landscapes, flower garden, and wines.Popular tourist spots are the Orchid Garden, Laurissilva forest and Funchal, the capital of Madeira which is studded with many historic sites.

Sintra
Romantic Sintra is set at the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, a day’s trip from Lisbon. Sintra is dotted with fairy tale like castles in many colours that are set at the backdrop of green pine woods. It is a resort town that served as a retreat for the royal families. There are fantastic castles, extravagant buildings, beautiful gardens and many walking trails to keep any visitor mesmerized.

Obidos
Obidos is nestled in the hills of western Portugal and is famed for the old fortified wall that surrounds the city. Further, the medieval castle, the historic centre, the cobblestoned pathways make for an interesting trip.

Algarve
Algarve is one of the best places to visit in Portugal. It is blessed with a sunny Mediterranean climate, low costs, beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, good food and historic sites such a Rennaissance buildings and castles. The landscape is covered with sprawling olive groves and orange groves. Faro is the capital and Lagos is the hot spot for nightlife. This is a must visit destination in Portugal.

Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and the country’s largest city.It is situated along the Tagus River and has a hilly terrain.Lisbon has warm weather and many historic quarters and gardens. The best way to explore Lisbon is to take the vintage trams which winds along all the important historic sites.