DESTINATIONS IN PORTUGAL

The capital of Portugal will captivate you with its sights, aromas, sounds, and the perfect mixture of old and new. Wander through its seven hills with breathtaking views, embrace its abundant history and culture, take a photo or ten of the blue and white azulejos (tiles), ride the yellow tram, taste the Pasteis de Nata in Belem, soak up the atmosphere of Bairro Alto and Alfama, and, of course, end your day with the riveting sounds of Fado – the Portuguese blues.

Porto will greet you with one of the most stunning Old Towns in Europe. Standing proudly over the shores of the Douro River, this city is renowned for its Porto wine, but even if you are not an oenophile, this destination will capture your imagination at first sight. Stroll through the vibrant Ribeira district, Majestic Café -one of the most beautiful cafes in the world- where JK Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book, and Livraria Lello, the world’s most beautiful bookshop which served as an inspiration for the grand Hogwarts library.

Enter the world of endless cliff-backed sandy beaches, quaint villages, exclusive hotels and resorts, mouthwatering seafood, and memorable sunsets. As one of the most scenic destinations in Portugal, Algarve is where you recharge your batteries, play a game of golf, test your watersports skills and explore the natural wonders such as the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Monchique Mountain, and the seven Hanging Valleys Trail with the famous Benagil Cave.

Portugal’s largest region is also one of its best-kept secrets. Picture endless rolling hills, a rugged coastline, whitewashed towns and villages steeped in history, grand medieval castles, and centuries of tradition, and it would still only paint half the picture. Come for the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites Evora and Elvas and stay for the myriad of riches including fantastic wines and delectable food. Often called “Tuscany of Portugal”, Alentejo is the perfect getaway destination, far from the crowds and big cities just a short drive from Lisbon.

“Island paradise” or the “Hawaii of Europe” is the easiest way to describe the Azores. The entire archipelago was a result of volcanic activity and along with 9 islands, you also notice the tiny atolls of black lava emerging from the deep blue, all creating one of the most stunning landscapes on the planet. Pristine and virtually untouched, the Azores are ideal for nature lovers, divers, and hikers, with plenty of historic sites and memorable food experiences along the way.

Another pristine sub-tropical destination in Portugal and an ideal choice for travelers in search of a holiday away from the crowds with plenty of activities to choose from. This autonomous Portuguese archipelago invites you to swim in the amazing coastal rock pools, taste world-class wines and Poncha, revel in year-round perfect temperatures, enjoy unique Levada walks, and, of course, sample some of the best seafood in Portugal. The islands of Madeira and Porto Santo also offer a real treasure trove of historic sites, postcard-worthy villages, and unique architecture including the famous manicured gardens and botanical gardens in Funchal.

Get ready for some of the most memorable river scenery in Europe! Terraced vineyards intertwine with steep hills, historic villages, traditional farmhouses, and the renowned Quintas making this destination one of the most visited wine regions in the world. Only an hour away from Porto, Douro Valley is a gastronomic haven and a must-see for all wine aficionados. Even if you are not an oenophile, Douro Valley will still fill your days with exciting adventures. Embark on an unforgettable river cruise, visit medieval towns, and villages such as Provesende filled with ancient cottages, majestic mansions, and cobbled town squares, soak up the local traditions and memorable food and immerse yourself in nature by visiting Alvão Natural Park or the Parque Natural do Douro Internacional.

Coimbra is the cultural heart of Portugal. Headquarters of the first and most prestigious university in the country, halfway between the two great Portuguese metropolises (Porto and Lisbon), the capital of the central region is the third city of Portugal. Nestled on a hill on the banks of the Mondego River, it has seen all the civilizations that have made Portugal the scene of their adventures pass by and this extensive biography materializes in a historic center with a good handful of noteworthy monuments ranging from architecture Roman to the most current avant-garde.