Portugal is a beautiful country with many attractive sights for tourists. Check out the top 15 essential things to do when touring Portugal.
Many international tourists miss a chance to visit Portugal in favor of its more famous neighbor. However, Portugal has more than enough attractions for tourists to check out. In recent years, more tourists have been doing this. As you plan your trip to Portugal, check out these top essential things to do when touring the country.
See the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
To start your tour in the capital city of Lisbon, you should check out the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. It is one of the most important buildings in the country and an attraction many tourists like to see. The imposing buildings house a church and a monastery built in the Manueline style. Things you must see in Mosteiro dos Jeronimos include the South Portal, the tombs of Vasco de Gama, and Luis de Camoes.
Climb the Torre de Belem
If you decide to stay in Lisbon for a while, you should check out the Torre de Belem. Also known as the Belem Tower, you can climb this tower or just enjoy seeing the breathtaking architecture. Tourists who climb the tower can have an unparalleled view of the Tagus River, with the Atlantic in the distance.
Torre de Belem in Lisbon. Photo by Igor Ferreira on Unsplash
Check Out the Hidden Cave Beaches
If you want to spread your activities across the country as much as possible, you should hop on a Lisbon to Albufeira train. Your destination is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the country. Find your way to the hidden cave beaches in Algarve and set up camp to sunbathe. The gorgeous water, soft beach sand, and the uniqueness of the caves are sights you are unlikely to forget.
Benagil cave, Carvoeiro, Algarve. Photo by Francois Olwage on Unsplash
Hike the Ponta da Piedade
While at the Algarve, you should visit the Ponta da Piedade. The phrase is Portuguese for the point of mercy and is rightfully named. The rock formations are stunning in their design as they jut into the Atlantic. Many take a boat or kayak to see the rocks up close, but nothing beats hiking the path to the top.
Ponta da Piedade. Photo by Cristiano Pinto on Unsplash
Go to Obidos
Obidos is a walled town that has caught the attention of tourists. The walls have stood for centuries and can still be seen today. Within the walls, you will see whitewashed churches, traditional restaurants, and buildings with flowered squares. If you can time your visit to July, you may be able to witness the Medieval Market, which is everything fun can be.
Visit the Roman Temple of Evora
One of the essential things for every tourist in Portugal is to visit the Roman Temple of Evora. When you get there, you can stand in a temple believed to have stood since the first century AD.
Roman Temple of Evora in Portugal. Photo by Jose Santos on Unsplash
Make a Stop at the Rio Douro Valley
Rio Douro Valley is a world-class attraction, with the Douro River being the third-longest in the Iberian Peninsula. It spans almost 900 kilometers (560 miles) from the Atlantic Ocean at Porto to the border with Spain. The valley is dotted with rolling hills and beautiful landscapes that will enchant any visitor.
Visit Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres
Parque Nacional da Peneda-Geres is the only national park in Portugal, a sight you do not want to miss. The park is primarily mountainous, but you will find a wide array of different landscapes and ecosystems. Apart from the mountains, you will see other hiking trails, rich green forests, and beautiful meadows that will leave you in awe.
Go to the Universidade de Coimbra
You don’t have to attend as a student, but you can still stand on the wall of one of the oldest universities in the world. The Universidade de Coimbra was established in the 13th century and remained one of the most prestigious universities in the country. You can take a tour inside many of the buildings.
Take time to explore the buildings on the Coimbra University campus. Photo by Susan Lanier-Graham
See the Palacio Nacional de Mafra
Built in the 18th century, this is an architectural and artistic masterpiece that will leave you in awe. The palace has over 1,200 rooms, serving various purposes, from royal residences to a library. Tourists have a visual feast with the building’s architecture and paintings.
Walk Through Alfama
Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon and has a landscape many tourists will enjoy. It is one of the few areas that survived the 1755 earthquake but is still well-preserved. The tiles are chipped, and some buildings are in ruins, but you will see more than a bit of history during your walk.
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district. Photo by Elisa Michelet on Unsplash
Spend a Day at the Palacio de Pena
The Pena Palace is one of the most impressive palaces in Europe. The palace has two wings, watchtowers, an entrance tunnel, a drawbridge, and many structures you only see in epic movies. The park around it has also gained popularity for containing tree species from every continent.
Palacio de Pena. Photo by Katia De Juan on Unsplash
Taste Pasteis de Nata
You have not truly toured Portugal until you taste one of the local delicacies. Pasteis de Nata is a meal of flaky custard tartlets sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. You should eat it while it is hot.
Go Surfing in the Atlantic While Touring Portugal
Portugal is a prime spot for surfing. The country has many beaches and water bodies ideal for surfing during the peak season. However, if you want to combine your experiences, you should go to one of the scenic beaches in the Algarve to surf.
Hike the Serra da Estrela
If you are up for some physical activities during your trip, you should hike the Serra da Estrela. It is the highest mountain range in the country, and the trails can be challenging. Join a guided tour to increase your motivation to finish the hike.
The Serra da Estrela offers some of the most breathtaking trails for travelers who appreciate natural beauty. Its rugged terrain and picturesque views make it a must-hike destination on any adventurer’s itinerary in Portugal. If you want to expand your hiking adventures beyond Portugal, exploring the best hiking destinations in Europe can offer even more scenic routes. Europe is famed for its diverse landscapes that cater to both novice hikers and seasoned trekking enthusiasts.
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The Best of Touring Portugal
There is much more than these attractions in Portugal, but you cannot do them all at once. Instead, plan your trip to visit spots located close to each other during each visit. It may take a while, but the effort is worth it to take your time and experience the country while touring Portugal.
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