Portugal is among the top tourism destinations in the world today. Its stunning views, rich history, innovative art, great food, incredible coastlines, and super friendly locals make it a great place to be. Touring the country has also become easier due to the numerous Portugal car hire services. Here are five interesting places you must visit when touring Portugal.
1. Lisbon
The capital has to be at the top of your travel itinerary. Lisbon offers an array of exciting scenes and activities. You can enjoy the narrow winding roads, phenomenal lookout points, cobblestone labyrinth of streets and cosy restaurants. You’ll also get an opportunity to enjoy mouth-watering delicacies including the bacalhau dishes and the authentic pasteis de nata.
Also, make sure you visit the world’s oldest bookstore in Chiado, the Portuguese calcadas, and the boho-chic Bairro Alto. Lisbon also boasts of great weather with more sunny days.
2. Madeira
There isn’t a better place to start your year than in Madeira. This subtropical island become one of the most popular destinations in the world for its festive feel, warm weather and exciting activities. While on the island you’ll enjoy hiking, eating exotic delicacies, and warm days by the seaside.
You can enjoy numerous festivities including one of the best New Year’s parties at Funchal. If you aren’t in Madeira for the New Year’s Eve, there’s plenty to enjoy in the adjacent islands without worrying about cold weather. Porto Santo offers breath-taking stretches of sand and other landmarks such as the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum. It’s home to the house that was once owned by Christopher Columbus. You can also visit the Madeira Wine Museum while in the city.
3. Porto
Portugal’s second largest city, Porto, may feel a lot like Lisbon. These two cities have old buildings rising on hilly streets and beside major rivers. However, Porto is filled with a lot more traditional Portuguese culture. Anyone who enjoys Portugal’s azulejos tiles should visit the Sao Bento railway station in Porto. The station has a great architecture with a remarkable mosaic of tiles, which turns the wall into a delightful work of art.
The city offers a lot more to soak up including lovely gardens, medieval palaces and cathedrals, and the best cuisine in the country. Porto is known for its wine companies and scenic stretches of vineyards that run through the Duoro Valley.
4. Algarve
Algarve is one of the top destinations that offers warm weather, numerous hiking missions, popular beaches and social scenes all in one place. It is home to some of the most beautiful cities in Portugal: Lagos, Albufeira, Portimao, and Vilamoura.
A weekend in Algarve will let you enjoy mesmerizing cliffs such as Camilo Beach in Lagos and tiny treasure troves of bright waters found all over the region. The best thing about this destination is that you don’t have to worry about not speaking or understanding Portuguese; most residents are English speakers. Even when you’re done touring the beaches, there is still a lot to explore including the peaceful towns on Tavira, Aljezur, and Sagres.
5. Serra de Estrela
There is more to Portugal than the warm weather and great beaches; Serra de Estrela boasts of hosting the highest mountain peak in continental Portugal. The mountain range has plenty of amazing sights and activities such as skiing in winter. It’s a great place for nature lovers to visit; foodies too can enjoy the homemade honey and the creamy cheese made there.
Bottom Line
Portugal is a top travel destination that you need to include in your bucket list. It has some amazing sights, culture, and people. You can’t go wrong with any of these 5 must-visit sites!
