What to see in Portugal
The most western and, perhaps, the least developed by Russian tourists state of continental Europe is, of course, Portugal …
Portugal
This country is located in Europe, west of Spain, in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula, on the Atlantic coast.
Due to its geographical and cultural isolation from its “big” Spanish neighbor, Portugal has its own unique and rich culture. This country, by the way, is already more than 900 years old, and although it has a relatively small area, it still played a decisive role in world history.
Today, Portugal is the oldest state in Europe with borders that has not changed for many centuries.
Festivals in Portugal
A rich historical heritage, famous winemaking traditions, good hotels with excellent European service, plus a low crime rate, warm climate and a variety of leisure activities are the main tourist “baits” for tourists.
Perhaps the only need to obtain a visa to Portugal is a fly in the ointment in the “barrel” of its many tourist advantages.
Vineyards of Portugal
In this article, we briefly describe the main attractions of the continental part of this country (as you know, the Azores and Madeira Island also belong to Portugal, but we will talk about them another time), which travelers should see here first.
WHAT TO SEE IN LISBON AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
What to see in Portugal: Lisbon
In the first place of our list, of course, is Lisbon, and above all its historical center (areas of Baixa, Bayrru-Alta, Alfama) with beautiful squares, castles, palaces and numerous ancient buildings, cathedrals and churches.
Belem tower
Another historical district of the Portuguese capital, Belen, is worthy of attention of tourists, many of whose sights, such as the Belem Tower and the Monastery of Jeronimites, are included in the UNESCO Heritage List.
Cascais
In the vicinity of Lisbon, along the Atlantic coast stretches a whole strip of fashionable resorts – Estoril (Estoril), Cascais (Cascais), Costa de Caparica (Costa-da-Caparica) and Carcavelos (Carcavelos). This is the so-called Lisbon Riviera – a resort area, popular with tourists who love to combine beach holidays and excursions. The best time to relax is from May to the end of September.
Sintra Palace
25 kilometers west of Lisbon is the famous city of Sintra, in and around which there are important historical attractions of the region – Sintra Palace, Pena Palace, Moors Castle, Quinta da Regaleira Palace and Park Complex and the Capuchin Monastery.
Cape of Roca (Cabo da Roca)
Further west, about 38 km west of Lisbon, is the equally famous Cape of Roca, a 140-meter-high cliff that rises above the Atlantic. It is considered the westernmost point of our continent.
WHAT TO SEE IN OTHER PORTUGAL AREAS
City Obidos
About 80 km north of the Portuguese capital is the ancient town of идbidos, known primarily for the fact that several times in its history it acted as a dowry of the Portuguese queens. In addition, it is very interesting in terms of architecture, and is one of the important tourist centers of the country. The hallmark of the city is the castle of the same name Obidos, founded in the 12th century.
Evora
Evora is a small museum town located about 119 kilometers east of Lisbon. The main local attractions are ancient palaces, churches, the ruins of the ancient Roman temple of Diana, as well as a very cozy city square surrounded by beautiful buildings. The historic center of Evora is protected by UNESCO.
What to see in Portugal: Tomar
About 130 north of Lisbon is the small town of Tomar, which grew up around the famous Tomar Templar Castle, founded in the distant 1160s and turned over time into a royal monastery called Convento de Cristo.
Aveiro
Aveiro (Aveiro) – This wonderful city is located about 250 km north of Lisbon, and is attractive for its canals with painted boats, because of which it is often called the Portuguese Venice.
Faro City
And 275 kilometers south of Lisbon is the southernmost city of continental Portugal – Faro (Faro). This cozy town with a beautiful Moorish-style historic center with cobbled streets and old buildings is a popular summer destination.
Porto
The second most populated city in Portugal is Porto, located three hundred kilometers north of the capital. By the way, it is sometimes called the northern capital of the country, and is also considered the capital of port. The beautiful historic center of Porto is protected by UNESCO and deserves the close attention of tourists.
