Why Portugal Is The Coolest Country To Visit In 2017
Where history co-exists with modernity
8 January 2017
Editor
It may not be the popular European choice, but Portugal’s diverse geography makes it a go-to destination for travelling souls looking to explore century-old natural treasures.
Filled with medieval castles, old villages and endless emerald beaches, Portugal has long been the hub of affordable tourism in Europe. It’s perhaps the only country where modernity has thrived without overshadowing the country's vital history. The harmony between old and new, mountains and beaches, peace and chaos is unparalleled here.
If you’re as spell-bounded by the beauty of the unseen as we are, then dig in to find all the major attractions to see in the oldest country in Europe.
1. Explore Torre de Belém
Built in the 15th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the architectural jewels of the world. The white monastery is the iconic place where Magellan and da Gama once prepared for their New World voyages.
2. Visit the historic Porto city
The second largest city of Portugal is a colourful maze of cobbled streets, gothic churches, numerous museums, old-fashioned shops, and cosy open cafes. The Porto is also the proud hub of country's thriving wine industry.
3. Take a dip in Algarve beaches
From tranquil landscapes, whitewashed villages to the wild, windswept coast, the stunning Algarve beaches are a feast for the eyes. Tourists are free to take the dip of a lifetime in the golden sand beaches.
4. Take a canal trip in Aveiro
Known as the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro is filled with tranquil water, colourful houses and distinctive boats that punctuate the city land give it a rustic charm.
5. Visit the spooky Capela dos Ossos
If spooky is your idea of fun then visit the macabre Capela dos Ossos, or ‘chapel of bones’, in the ancient city of Evora. This is the final resting place for hundreds of bodies that were exhumed from the city’s graves and they now line its walls along with numerous skulls.
6. Climb Boca de Inferno
If Capela dos Ossos isn't enough to satisfy your adrenaline, then climb Boca de Inferno - the ‘Mouth of Hell’ - a dangerous cliff formed by years of relentless pounding by the Atlantic Ocean on the rocks near the city of Cascais.
7. Explore Lisbon in city tram
Your Portugal trip is not complete unless you experience the nostalgia of the ancient street spread across the capital city, Lisbon. The best way to experience Lisbon is by taking one of the vintage trams through the historic quarters, gardens and other main attractions.
8. Visit Obidos
Straight-out-of-a-fairytale, Obidos is a rustic walled town that was once the traditional bridal gift of Portuguese kings.
9. Stroll along the Peso da Régua
This is where couples go strolling for hours. A train ride or boat trip from the Peso da Régua to the picturesque river valleys in Portugal is equally spell-binding.
10. Go Kayaking in the Mondego river
The Mondego is Portugal’s only river where you can kayak comfortably all year round. The 18km kayaking trip is the highlight for anyone visiting the region.
- Tags:
- travel
