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Why You Should Visit Portugal at Least Once in Your Lifetime?
There are a variety of reasons why you should be visiting a country as stunning and beautiful as República Portuguesa or simply Portugal. So here are some of the many reasons that you should be visiting Portugal:
- The sunsets in the ocean: Portugal's western coastline makes it possible for the visitors to enjoy its jaw-dropping and stunning sunset. Do remember to be on the beaches in the evenings.
- Historical trams add to the serene and beautiful ambience of the cities: Most of the cities of Portugal have these lovely trams functioning even as of now. Take a ride in these and get an exclusive taste of Portuguese history. A treat for those who have the desire to travel in the past.
- Stunning festivities that will amaze you: The Santo Antonio and Sao Joao festivities are incredible and are immensely popular with the people visiting Portugal. Though their origin is based upon saints, you can feel free to enjoy amazing music, yummy food and of course the parties.
- Surf on the waters at Algarve: Those seriously into the surfing scene should try the waters of Algarve for at least once in their lifetime. The region is famous for its roller waves that are significant enough in size to attract the organizers of competitions related to the sport.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Visiting Portugal
Dos:
- Wear comfortable and proper footwear
- Some knowledge of Portuguese is always a plus
- Do keep an eye on your belongings when visiting any tourist place
- Memorize the official emergency number 112
- Try to stay with a group in the night time
Don'ts:
- Never hop on the public transportation system in case you have not paid the fare
- Avoid talking about the subjects of colonial wars and political scenario as they are sensitive areas
- Avoid boasting about how much money and status you have as Portuguese always appreciate a sense of modesty
- Never ever be disrespectful to the Christian religion as it is deeply connected with the Portuguese culture
Top Five Cities in Portugal That You Must Visit
Here we are presenting you with the top 5 cities in Portugal that you should be visiting if you have decided to explore the country.
Sintra
Sintra is yet another gorgeous town situated on the hills of Serra de Sintra. Hidden within this place are mansions, ruins of a castle and not to mention the extravagant palace. The historical connection makes it a paradise for those interested in the subject. Some of the places to visit in this calm Portuguese town are:
The Palácio Nacional:
The amazing National Palace is situated at the heart of the old city and also an integral part of the cultural scene of the city of Sintra. It is also a World Heritage Site as per UNESCO.
Castelo dos Mouros:
It is another castle but in ruins. Situated in the Serra De Sintra forests, it is among the popular tourist attractions of Sintra. It was built by the moors long back in the ninth century AD.
Quinta da Regaleira:
This is an affluent residence with its lush green enchanting gardens. For those into hidden tunnels and well-concealed symbols, it is an amazing treat.
Lisbon
The capital city of Portugal, as you might have guessed is yet another marvel that you can visit while in the country. Situated on the shores of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. The city's architecture and vibrant culture make it an almost perfect choice for spending your vacations. It is also the home of colourful alleys and white limestone buildings. Some of the places that you can visit while in Lisbon are:
Rossio Square:
It is another name for King Pedro IV square. You can always observe it to be completely filled with shoppers and vendors mostly selling colourful and fresh flowers.
Castelo de São Jorge:
Among one of the most well recognized of all the city's main attractions, St. George's Castle has a commanding position nearby to the Alfama upon a hill while also overlooking the capital. Its really impressive battlements and museums along with fascinating archaeological site make it an amazing experience to visit this place.
Praça do Comércio:
It holds the title of being one of the grandest of all the plazas in the capital. The eye-catching plaza's distinct architecture is visible almost the minute you enter it. The statue at the centre only acts to increase its royal ambience.
Cristo Rei (Towering Statue of the Christ):
Do make a visit to this iconic monument in Lisbon. After its completion in the year 1959, it has slowly emerged as a popular pilgrimage destination.
Faro
Yet another one of the cultural and historic powerhouse in Portugal, Faro has the misfortune of being overlooked by visitors to Portugal. Believe us, you won't ever regret this charming city. The town centre has a historical gothic cathedral. The sheer diversity in terms of the places that you can visit ensures that it has something to offer to every single visitor that it caters.
There are a lot of things that you can explore in Faro:
- Scenic plazas
- Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
- Jardim Manuel Bivar
- Praia de Faro Resort
- Ilha da Culatra
Odeceixe
Odeceixe is situated in the western part of Algarve with the river Seixe separating it from Alentejo. It is famous for its location in the Costa Vicentina National Park. The town like any other Portuguese town has its fair share of festivities such as the Santos Populares. For wine connoisseurs, there is even a wine museum!
Places to explore in Odeceixe are:
- Medieval windmill
- The Blue Flag Beach
- Ruins at Alijezur
Odemira
Odemira's name has an interesting historical story. It is a combination of two Arabic words, 'wad' and 'Emir'. This charming town is located on the top of a hill and is filled with gorgeous white houses facing the Mira river. For those into handicrafts, you can always find various pottery, furniture and basket craftsmen.
Some more places for you to visit in Odemira are:
- Atelier Vincent
- Praia de Almograve
- Moura Encantada
- Farol do Cabo Sardao
Best Beaches in Portugal to Relax and Enjoy
Since Portugal is situated right next to the Atlantic Ocean and also happens to have a long coastline, it is obvious that it is bound to have some of the world's best beaches.
Ericeira
Ericeira has a variety of beaches in its vicinity as well making it a paradise for beach enthusiasts. Ribeira d'Ilhas, for example, is sandwiched among some high cliffs and is located in the North of Ericeira. It is a lovely place for those who are either amateur or professional surfers.
Praia do Sul is on the south of Ericeira. The ambience of the beach is enhanced by the nearby picturesque village. Though surfers may be disappointed here, it is still a great choice if you wish to have a bath.
Praia da Rocha
This beach's importance can be judged by the fact that the mass tourism trend of Algarve started right here in Praia da Rocha. In the case when you happen to be looking for having a blast 24*7 with a tonne of entertainment, this is a perfect choice. The amazing formations of rocks make it one of the best beaches in the whole of Portugal.
But do make sure that you have decent footwear as the sand gets crazy hot in the summer season. The water is clear and is also happens to be free from any kind of water pollution.
Sesimbra
Sesimbra is an amazing holiday destination that has a picturesque coastline and is also blessed with beautiful beaches. The nearby bay of Sesimbra creates two beaches by the names Praia da Califórnia and Praia do Ouro. The calm ocean water makes them extremely suitable for friends and family. The beaches here are among the country's finest, both in terms of cleanliness and ambience.
Nazaré
Nazare is quite famous for the size of the massive wave that can be observed every winter. This makes it a hotspot for surfers from around the world. The town also is a witness to one of the oldest traditions of fishing in the whole of Portugal. Whenever anyone visits this town, it seems to him or her that as if time has almost stopped. If you want to visit Nazare when it is the least crowded, then April is the best time to do so.
Mind Blowing Unique Places That You Can Visit While in Portugal
Portugal is also home to many of the places that will simply blow your mind. Have a look at some of them. It is little wonder why Portugal is so popular among tourists from around the world.
Sagres & Cabo Sao Vicente
A fun fact about Sagres & Cabo Sao Vicente is that it is considered as the southwest tip of the whole European continent. The place was also considered as to be the world's end until the fourteenth century. Sagres & Cabo Sao Vicente is also home to one of the most famous lighthouses in the whole of Europe. They were constructed in the late nineteenth century upon the rubble of a monastery.
Setúbal
Setubal is an industrial city of Portugal and also boasts to have a fishing port. Along with this, it also is famous for its unique historical centre. Therefore every year a large number of tourists turn up to check out the same. The city might not be that well-known in terms of fame like other major cities in Portugal but giving it a shot will reveal that it is a culturally rich and amazing tourist destination.
Feel free to check out the bustling markets such as the Mercado do Livramento and lose yourself in the Portuguese culture.
Algarve
Algarve is considered to be one of the favourite holiday destinations in the whole of Europe. Its surreal beaches and coastal caves only add to its charm and appeal. As for the cuisine, don't worry about it. It is considered to be among the finest in the whole of the European continent. So here are some of the most famous places for you to visit while you happen to be in Algarve.
Sao Laurenco Church:
It is a stunning example of how creatively buildings used to be created in the past. Built-in the eighteenth century, it is a must-visit place for those of you planning to go to Algarve.
Waterparks:
Algarve also boasts has one of the best waterparks in the continent. Side and Splash is considered to be the number one in Portugal in terms of size. Several other in the list are:
Zoomarine Algarve
Aquashow Park
Golf Courses:
Until the sixties, golf was almost unheard of in the Algarve region. But as of now, it is a completely different story. Now it has become one of the top golfing regions in the continent. Algarve offers those into the game a huge variety in terms of the sheer number of golf courses (42 to be exact).
Lagos
Lagos is yet another beautiful city in the long list of those that are the pride of Portugal. Pleasant weather is another plus while spending your vacations in Lagos. The colourful nightlife and a cultural-historical centre makes sure that none of its visitors get disappointed with their choice.
The past of Lagos:
While other towns in Portugal might be having resorts for catering to the needs of the tourists, Lagos's historical significance is too great to be ignored. Some of the major historical places are:
Bandeira Fort
Mercado dos Escravos
Santo Antonio Church
The city is also famous for its natural beauty in the form of stunning sandstone cliffs.
Ponta da Piedade:
These wonderful features are an end result of the erosion that has occurred over millions of years. The best way to enjoy their natural beauty is by making use of the boat tours that regularly cater to the needs of the visitors.
Other places to visit in the city of Lagos:
Lagos Zoo
Sagres
Cabo Sao Vicente
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Holidaying at Portugal
Portugal is a beautiful place where there is something for everyone. Make sure you plan your vacation carefully according to the number of days you visit the place and take into account the weather. Take loads of photos and make loads of happy memories. Visit with your near and dear ones to make the most of this holiday!