Your next great European destination
Looking for fresh inspiration for your travel plans? Look no further: Portugal has 7 regions, all different despite the country's tidy size, that offer a wide variety of experiences. There are many reasons to put Portugal at the top of your travel list; here are some good ones to get you started:
Lisbon and Porto
If you have only a few days, Lisbon and Porto, the two Portuguese largest cities, are extremely attractive and interesting. Lisbon has a special radiance thanks to reflections off the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean. Porto, an ancient city whose historic center is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, lies at the mouth of the Douro River, famous for its valley of vineyards that produce the famous Port wine.
Sun, Beach, and Sea
The Atlantic Ocean creates a climate with very sunny summers and mild winters, making Portugal a destination renowned for sun and sea throughout the year. In fact, the Portuguese coast is almost one single beach extending more than 850 km, yet with a diversity of accompanying landscapes.
Walking and cycling trips
The Natural Parks and Reserves, Geoparks, and Biosphere Reserves recognized by UNESCO have ensured that Portugal is much in demand for enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling and has well-marked trails for all levels of fitness.
Paths of Faith
The Portuguese Road to Santiago, the Paths of Fátima, and the Jewish Legacy are increasingly sought out by those who like walking to focus on knowledge, nature, and culture.
Surfing
On the mainland, Madeira, and the Azores alike, the Portuguese coast offers great waves every day. Surfers of all abilities find excellent beaches here, such as Peniche, Nazaré, and Ericeira, that make surfing a 365-day-a-year activity in Portugal.
Golf
Portugal is internationally renowned as a top golf destination. Excellent courses in stunning settings in the Algarve and Lisbon regions, a mild climate year-round, and our friendly welcome and understanding of golfers make Portugal an amazing destination for golf.
World Heritage
The 26 UNESCO-listed sites in Portugal portray the history, cultures, and traditions of those who have inhabited the land, from the time of the cave dwellers, through the centuries, to the vibrant country it is today.
Gastronomy and Wines
Portugal’s cuisine and its excellent chefs are greatly appreciated. The country’s location and proximity to the Atlantic ocean explain the prominence of fish and seafood in the diet – and these taste even better when enjoyed with a selection from the huge variety of top-quality local table wines and finished off with a Port or Madeira, accompanied by a Pastel de Nata.
The People
One thing that tourists notice most when they visit us is the hospitality and friendliness of the Portuguese, who are always ready to help if they are stopped on the street and asked for information. Perhaps it’s the sun that gives Portuguese people a sunny disposition to welcome everyone to enjoy the country.
