With a vibrant culture, a rich history, and stunning beaches, Portugal is the ultimate destination for an escape. The country’s cities are becoming a chic hotspot for travellers, while the coastline is still perfect to relax and unwind.
Take a tour of the Douro Valley, famed for its award-winning Port wine production and stunning vineyard-covered hillsides. Or head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra, home to an opulent castle and some breathtaking palaces.
Lisbon
From historic neighborhoods to modern attractions, Lisbon offers a lot to see and do. This sophisticated, friendly capital is a perfect introduction to Western Europe.
Take in the views from one of the many miradouros (lookout points) around the city, or hop on an electric bike for a more active tour. Or, visit the monuments and museums that make up Lisbon's history, including the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrao dos Descobrimentos), an iconic white-stone sculpture erected as a tribute to Portugal's Age of Discovery.
If you're visiting during the summer, be sure to check out the nearby beaches. Peak season is June to August, with temperatures soaring to 25-30degC (77-86degF).
Braga
The cosmopolitan city of Braga is packed with historical landmarks, museums and churches. Visitors could spend days exploring everything it has to offer.
In addition to its history, Braga is renowned for its food and gastronomy. There are many restaurants serving traditional dishes.
One must-try dish is 'Caldo Verde', a light green soup made from traditional Portuguese kale with potatoes, garlic and pieces of sausage. There are also 'Frigideiras', a pastry with several buttery layers that is filled with meat and spices.
Another must-see is the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a spectacular 18th-century site where pilgrims ascend a punishing staircase before taking a funicular to the top of a hill. A short distance away stands 'Mount Sameiro', home to a colossal statue of the Virgin Mary.
Sortelha
Sited in a secluded corner, far away from the urban crowd and untouched by modernity, Sortelha is a historical gem. The village is home to lush vegetation and 13th-century architecture that meld together to form the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.
The castle at the top of the rocky hill is one of the most impressive and visited attractions in town. The castle has been remarkably well preserved for its age and is free to explore, although you should still wear sensible shoes as you’ll be climbing around rocky terrain.
Vila Real is another lesser-known Portuguese city that exudes both natural and architectural beauty. The city has a less touristy feel than Lisbon and is also one of the best places in the world for wine tasting.
Vila Real
Located at the edge of the Douro River, Vila Real is a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site. This attractive city has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and gastronomy.
It is a wonderful place to visit, particularly during the month of June when you can attend one of the many traditional festivals held in the town. If you are a fan of wine then head to the vineyards south of Vila Real as they produce some of Portugal's best wines.
If you want to learn about the region's history, check out the Museu da Vila Velha. It houses a collection of archaeological finds including items from Panoias, pottery made from the black clay of Bisalhaes and metalwork.
Albufeira
One of the most popular tourist towns in the Algarve, Albufeira offers a number of attractions and things to do. There are plenty of watersports, beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
A visit to the town’s small Archaeological Museum is a great way to discover some of the city’s history. Located in the former town hall it houses several interesting exhibits covering the Roman, Islamic and modern eras.
You can also check out the grand Igreja Matriz de Albufeira, a whitewashed 18th-century church on Praca Miguel Bombarda. It has a blend of Baroque and Manueline styles with statues inside dating back to the 16th century.
