You might think, what can be the best tourist destination that exudes both elegance and nature? After all, these characteristics are all part of how good a trip is going to be. For navigators, however—it comes from a different perspective. They study geography and how a place will be as adventurous as they are.
The heartland of Portugal combines stunning northern mountain ranges with wide rolling plains in the sun-drenched center areas.
That is why they like going to Portugal—and what most likely is called, “The Land of the Navigators”. Moreover, to put into context—why has Portugal considered the dream place for travelers? Well, this country does not only exude good culture and nature but is also a place filled with adventures. From the outstanding Lisbon capital up to Portugal’s Madeira Island—everywhere is a place to discover. Portugal’s Atlantic Ocean coastline does not also falter, as it attracts tourists yearly due to its exotic views and stunning locations.
Thus, if you are somebody who wishes to transpire the realms of Portugal—this place is perfect for you! Dreaming to go to Portugal and you do not have any idea where to go? Here are some places that you can enjoy and visit.
Leiria
Living the dream of witnessing a live-action castle—Portugal’s Leiria fully encompasses your castle on the hill dreams. With its stunning architecture and well-planned landscapes, the village below the castle completely suits the aesthetic of the entire city. Moreover, traveling to the top will let you exhibit the beautiful scenes—overlooking what lies ahead. With its perfect weather and suited landscapes, the vibe is exquisite as if you are the main character of a movie. There are a few museums to see among the densely packed buildings, and because it is a university town, the center comes alive at night. Nearby beaches provide visitors and residents alike the opportunity to catch some rays while relaxing on the beach.
Oceanário de Lisboa
Because Portugal resides along the Atlantic Ocean coastline—its marine ecosystem will absolutely not falter as well. Thus aside from its central architecture, the marine life of Portugal is arguably one of the most family-friendly tourist attractions as well. With its pure and wholesome marine life, children will certainly have the most fun here, especially in Lisbon’s oceanarium, Oceanário de Lisboa. The ecosystems of the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans are recreated in four different seascapes. Sharks, rays, and other finned marvels and dwellers of the deep abound in a massive central tank visible from various levels. Thus, if you aspire to visit a place that your children will surely love, this place is the safest option.
Bom Jesus do Monte
Portugal is one of the most religious countries in the world. So it is impossible to visit this place without any religious landmarks and sanctuaries. One of the most famous places of such is called the Bom Jesus do Monte, and this place is not for the easy-hearted. You must have good cardiovascular endurance to visit such a place as it transpires not-so-long stairs to the top. Climbing the bottom half of the 116-meter decorative granite stairway leads to a steep Sacred Way with chapels depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross. Moreover, the white, interlaced Escadório dos Cinco Sentidos, located in the middle, portrays the five senses through artistically carved statues. Lastly, the Staircase of the Three Virtues, which leads to the church, is the final piece. Too much exercise is it not? Do not worry too much, since the venue is all worth the sweat.
Guimaraes
If you want to visit the place where Portugal was born, then go and visit Guimaraes. Before Lisbon, this place was considered Portugal’s first-ever capital—how cool can that be? Moreover, this place is the exact definition of Portugal—stunning castles and well-landscaped cities. This place, therefore, testifies to Portugal’s rich history, the mother of their culture and traditions. Head to the adjacent Penha Mountain for a breathtaking view of Guimaraes below. Olive Square in the city is a pleasant location to spend some time, and it's here that you can truly get a sense of the city's rich history. Guimaraes, about 50 kilometers north of Porto, is an excellent day excursion for history buffs.
Evora
It might look weird in pictures, but believe me, it is more majestic in person. Evora is a city packed with more than two thousand years' worth of history—even historians would take interest in visiting this place. Moreover, one of the most popular landmarks of this place would be the Bone Chapel—these high pillars and no roof infrastructure encompasses how culturally preserved this place is—as it still stands high originating way back from the 13th century. The city center is plenty of interesting locations to see, and just outside of Evora is the intriguing megalithic structure of Almendres Cromlech, which features a vast group of menhirs and massive stones arranged in a circle. If you are a traveler who seeks more of the historical value of a place, then this place will definitely be filled with it.
Porto
This city of Portugal is remarkable due to its stagnant piece, the spindly needle-like Torre de Clérigos. It can be seen standing so high and upright from afar as if it signifies the landmark of Oporto. Thus, when you see such a high needle-like tower, now, you are definitely in the zone of the city. Nicolau Nasoni erected this slender tower in the 18th century, and it emits a powerful sense of the Baroque. The tower was erected in 1763 as part of the Igreja dos Clérigos and was the highest building in Oporto at the time. Surrounded by different sizes and lengths of houses, its unique architecture can both be disturbing yet pleasing to the eye, due to its uniformed orange-roofed houses. Moreover, you can also go to the top, if ever you are willing to take 200 steps up to the tower and witness its magnificent views of the Douro river. How cool does that sound?
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