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Portugal is located on the edge of the Iberian Peninsula with Spain on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.

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Portugal has a Mediterranean climate which means it has warm summers, and mild but wet winters. It almost never snows in Portugal, except in the mountains.

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Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal Weather Forecast and Conditions - The Weather Channel | Weather.com

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Today's and tonight's Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal weather forecast, weather conditions and Doppler radar from The Weather Channel and Weather.com

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The green on the flag represents hope for the future, while the red represents blood that was shed. Where the two colors meet is the armillary sphere, a Portuguese navigation instrument. The five small blue shields represent the five kings that the first king of Portugal conquered.

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The capital of Portugal, Lisbon, is located at the mouth of the Tagus River and is a natural harbor. More than one-fourth of Portugal’s population lives in Lisbon, even though it only covers about 3% of the country’s surface.

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Book a 5-star hotel at Lisbon

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Spread across seven undulating hills overlooking terracotta rooftops set against azure-blue skies, Lisbon is a city of spectacular views. Yet this charming city has other strings to its bow. With big-name designers and exclusive boutiques, Lisbon holds its own as a vibrant high-end shopping destination. A foodies' paradise also, it offers everything from traditional Portuguese gastronomy and innovative haute cuisine, to custard tarts and petiscos-Portugal's answer to Spanish tapas. Add in the city's style, sophistication and laid-back charm, and you have all you need for a perfect 5-star break in Lisbon.

Things to see in Lisbon

Art lovers will delight in the many fine galleries and museums dotted around the city. One of its lesser-known treasures is Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, which houses a magnificent collection of classical and Oriental artifacts including Egyptian mummy masks and exquisite Persian rugs, as well as works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Rodin. Nearby Centro de Arte Moderna offers an impressive collection of pieces by contemporary Portuguese artists, and also boasts a spacious, light-filled café perfect for sophisticated Sunday lunches. With its exquisite stone motifs, ornate Moorish influences, and elegant Renaissance loggia, Belém Tower is one of Lisbon's top tourist attractions and a grand reminder of the city's illustrious seafaring past. No trip to Lisbon would be complete without a visit to Castelo de São Jorge. Overlooking the historic center, this sprawling medieval castle boasts exquisite courtyards, beautiful gardens, and majestic ramparts commanding spectacular views of the city below.

5-star hotels in Lisbon

Discerning travelers looking for opulent surroundings, acclaimed dining, and exemplary service will find that Lisbon's 5-star hotels do not disappoint. From the classic elegance of historic landmark hotels to the cool sophistication of avant-garde designer accommodation, there's no shortage of exceptional five-star hotels in Lisbon. With exquisite gourmet dining, full-service spa facilities, roof-top terraces, designer pools, and stylish suites offering great views of the Tagus, the theme is very much one of pampered indulgence. In many of the top hotels, concierge services, valet parking, and private limousine hire also come as standard.

Where to stay in Lisbon

For elegance and sophistication, look no further than Chiado. This chic quarter is synonymous with luxury and style and is a great base for your 5-star vacation in Lisbon. Shopping enthusiasts flock to Avenida da Liberdade where big-label boutiques sit alongside exclusive craft stores selling exquisitely embroidered linens and handmade leather gloves. Bairro Alto, with its antique shops and vintage boutiques is the bohemian heart of the city and within easy reach of some of the best 5-star hotels in Lisbon. Alternatively, follow the lure of the Atlantic and stay in the exclusive waterfront district of Belém-perfect also for savoring the creamy delights of Portugal's famous Pastéis de Belém, or custard tart.

How to get to Lisbon

Most international travelers fly into Lisbon Portela Airport. Located less than 5 miles from the historic center, the airport is well-served by taxi, bus, and metro. While many 5-star hotels in Lisbon provide their own airport shuttle service, a number of the city's more high-end hotels offer the personal comfort and convenience of an air-conditioned limousine service. When it comes to getting around Lisbon itself, the city's iconic trams with their vintage wooden interior and quaint old-world charm are a wonderful option-line 28 takes in some of the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions, and is a particular favorite among tourists.

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Top 10 5-Star Hotels in Lisbon, Portugal | Hotels.com

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Spread across seven undulating hills overlooking terracotta rooftops set against azure-blue skies, Lisbon is a city of spectacular views. Yet this charming city has other strings to its bow. With big-name designers and exclusive boutiques, Lisbon holds its own as a vibrant high-end shopping destination.

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In northern Portugal, there are mixed deciduous forests, while the south mainly contains oaks, fig, almond, and olive trees.

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The Cantabrian Mixed Forests in Portugal is a transitional zone possessing a mix of both Mediterranean and Eurosiberian climates and biodiversity. The lush, green landscapes of the Azores hold the remnants of a type of laurel forests. The Northwest Iberian Montane Forests boasts of the last pristine forest in an already overpopulated Europe while Madeira Evergreen Forests provide an ecosystem established in deep gorges and canyons. Portugal, in general, has two types of biomes the first one is the Temperate Broadleaf and Mixed Forests and the second one is the Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands, and Scrubs. These biomes support a range of ecosystems some of which are discussed below.

Azores Temperate Mixed Forests

These island forest zones are isolated in the Atlantic Ocean where temperatures are invariably mild. Famous for their thermal springs, caverns, crater lakes, and grottoes, the Azores is a lush and vibrant island. The zone functions as the natural evolutionary laboratory with native plants species having fossils in the region. The archipelago rises steeply from the rocky coastlines to about 2,381 meters in Pico, a volcano cone. The island lies over a tectonically unstable ground and experiences earthquakes and volcanic activities. The Gulf Stream influences the climate of Azores. There is no frost below 500 meters and temperatures average 21º Celsius in summer and 14.5 o Celsius in the winter.The archipelago is home to endemic species of Pyrrhula Murina an endangered species maintains a population of about 250 birds on the island, breeding seabirds such as the Procellariiformes, one species of pelecaniform, and four Charadriiformes. Mammals in the island include the Azores noctule, which is an endemic bat, as well as the mouse-eared bat, Norwegian rat, and European hedgehog. The native flora and fauna have suffered severely through degradation from the settlers living in the Azores in the form of deforestation, agriculture and the introduction of novel species. The ecosystem falls under National Forest Reserve for conservation. Also, a European Union-funded Program protects it. The University of Azores carries out research on the native and endemic flora of this ecosystem.

Cantabrian Mixed Forests

The Cantabric Mountain System is a transitional zone between the Mediterranean and Eurosiberian regions. The ecosystem has a rich and diverse biodiversity. The ecosystem is characterized by steep rocky slopes, canyons, high summits, and high karstic plains. The ecoregion has a warm Atlantic climate. The temperatures average at 8 o to 14º Celsius, and rainfall totals 900 to 1,800 millimeters. The winters are mild with high rainfall, and summers are warmer and dry. The higher elevations have cold winters with abundant snow. Fauna includes the brown bear, wolves, and such birds as the griffon vulture, capercaillie, and black woodpecker live in the mixed forests of Cantabrian. The last herds of wild horses have found a home here. There are also wild boars, red deer, roe deer, and the seldom Pyrenean desman. The system supports a broad range of forests. Lower elevation have mixed deciduous broadleaf forests, and there are Mediterranean evergreen oak forests along the coasts and in the CantabrianMountains. Fern species include woodland radicans, Stennograma pozoi, and Culcita macrocarpa. The Pinus pinaster has managed to dominate the Portuguese coastal sand dunes and the dry rock slopes of the system. Issues involving road construction and forest fragmentation threaten the remaining parts of the forests and the animal populations living here.

Madeira Evergreen Forests

The Madeira archipelago extends in the Atlantic Ocean from off the coast of Morocco to approach Lisbon on the Portuguese mainland. Madeira and Porto Santo are inhabited while the Desertas and Selvagens islands are not. The landform is a complex of deep gorges and ravines. There are inaccessible high cliffs and caves along the coastline. With a north to south climatic gradient, the temperatures average between 15 o and 20º Celsius and rainfall totals of 250 to 750 millimeters. The ecosystem flora includes trees of the Lauraceae family forming the high canopies. There are herb and shrub species some of which are endemic to the ecosystem. The system has 11 important bird areas with 295 bird species and subspecies and 42 of them breed here.There are more than 500 native invertebrates of mollusks, spiders, and insects.The canopies also provide refuge to birds of prey and passerines that live in the archipelago. Shortly after colonization in the 15th Century, the settlers started logging and clearing the forests. The need to clear land for agriculture, urbanization, and road buildings is a constant threat to these forests that resemble the remnants of laurel forests.Where erosion destroys the steep topography, logging and overgrazing destroy the vegetation covers. Invasive species such as Acacia also constitute a significant threat. Conservation of the ecosystem falls in the Madeira National Park. The ecosystem also comprises the Special Zone for Protection of the European Birds Directive. Also in the Habitats Directive, the forests form a Site of Community Interest.

Northwest Iberian Montane Forests

The Northwestern Iberian Mountains have among them the last remaining exceptionally beautiful and virgin forests in Europe. The mountain is the Hercynian System and consists of medium elevations with smooth reliefs. The mountains have the Mediterranean-Atlantic climatic conditions with an average temperature of 7 o to 3º Celsius and rainfall totals of 500 to 1,000 millimeters annually. The winters are cold whereas summers are hot and dry. The ecosystem supports the largest population of wolves (Canis lupus) on the planet. Cantabrian species that crossover to these mountains includes the endangered capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) and Cantabrian brown bear (Ursus arctos). Prominent birds include the griffon vulture, short-toe- eagle and the golden eagle. The major fauna groups in the region are conifers, junipers, and oak trees. For years now these forests have been cleared to create space for agriculture and overgrazing is a constant issue. Forests fires and poorly regulated hunting threatens this last population of wolves.

Maintaining the Integrity of Portugal's Ecosystems

These green ecosystems, with their diverse terrains, their biodiversity, and their climates, give Portugal a vibrant array of landforms. The green in Portugal is breathtaking because all these ecosystems and biomes lie within one country. However, these natural eco-regions are on the verge of alternation caused by human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, urbanization, and road construction. Stopping any form of human encroachment to these sites maybe one of the best conservation measures if these biomes are to survive this century.

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The Cantabrian Mixed Forests in Portugal is a transitional zone possessing a mix of both Mediterranean and Eurosiberian climates and biodiversity. The lush, green landscapes of the Azores hold the remnants of a type of laurel forests.

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Book a home anywhere in Portugal to stay at.

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We're sorry, some parts of the Airbnb website don't work properly without JavaScript enabled.

Discover entire homes and private rooms perfect for any trip.

What guests are saying about homes in Portugal

Over 3,500,000 guest reviews with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars

"The room is absolutely kind and beautifull. Tomás was very nice taking care of the way we could arrange to give us the keys, and although we didnt talk very much he was very kind. Muy recomendable!"

"Antonio of the managing team allowed us to move in earlier since we arrived early. He came to the steep stairs to help take the luggage to the apartment. He showed us how to use the equipment and passed us the keys. Antonio even left us a bottle of wine, coffee, fruit jam, orange and chocolate. When we found the dish-washing detergent is gone, he quickly went outside to buy a new bottle for us. The neighborhood is fine and has many stores within walking distance. "

"Had a wonderful stay at the apartment. It's big and spacious and has a nice view. One person slept in the bedroom, the other on the couch, and both were very comfortable. "

© 2021 Airbnb, Inc. All rights reserved

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We're sorry, some parts of the Airbnb website don't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Discover entire homes and private rooms perfect for any trip. Over 3,500,000 guest reviews with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars "The room is absolutely kind and beautifull.

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The Tagus is the longest river in Portugal.

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The Yellow Boat River Tour is a Tejo river sightseeing cruise, offering a chance to discover the old Lisbon, its monuments, hills and cityscape, from a different angle, and to take amazing pictures.

You'll be able to watch the Alfama neighbourhood glide by, with São Jorge Castle and the Sé Cathedral.

The boat will cross the river to Cacilhas on the southern bank, and you'll be able to visit Cristo Rei, the statue of Christ. After that, the boat will get very close to the suspension red bridge - Ponte 25 de Abril, or 25 April Bridge - on its way back to Lisbon, so that you'll see the amazing views of Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

Yellow Boat River Tour Details

The tour takes about 1h30, and it's on the old "Cacilheiro" ferry boat, which has been renovated. The hop-on, hop-off system lets you explore Lisbon at your own rhythm according to the following circuit:

The ticket costs from €18, valid for 24 hours, and may be purchased on board.

The ferry has an open-air area and a bar. The boat service includes information about the trip, provided in four languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish and French.

Additional Advantages

The Yellow Boat River Tour ticket also includes:

Website: www.yellowbustours.com

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Lisbon River Sightseeing Cruises & Tours

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See Lisbon by boat, and get a different angle of the city. The cruises down the River Tejo are the perfect choice to discover Lisbon's hidden gems in a trip that reveals wonderful views of the old and modern neighbourhoods.

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Enjoy the amazing scenery and historical landmarks of this city.

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Sintra is a charming Portuguese town situated within the cooling hills of the Serra de Sintra. Hidden within these pine-covered hills are whimsical palaces, extravagant villas and the ruins of a Moorish castle.

The variety of fascinating historic buildings and beautiful natural scenery combine to form an outstanding tourist destination. Sintra is regarded as the finest day trip of the Lisbon region, and a visit to this wonderful town must be included in your holiday plans.
This article will show to you why you must visit Sintra, and how to get the most from your trip here.

What are the highlights of Sintra?

There is so much to see in Sintra, and sights which can't be missed are:
The Palácio Nacional da Pena - One of Europe's finest palaces, with a vividly painted exterior, and an interior restored to how it appeared in 1910 when the Portuguese nobility fled the country

The Pena Palace as seen from the Cruz Alto viewpoint

The Quinta da Regaleira - A neo-gothic mansion but the real attraction are the gardens, which conceal secret passages, mystical symbolism and even a Knights of Templar initiation well

The Poço Iniciático well in the grounds of the Quinta da Regaleira

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra - The original medieval palace of Sintra, which was a favourite with the early Portuguese rulers.

The Castelo dos Mouros - The ancient ruins of a Moorish castle that stands atop a craggy peak and once guarded the entire region

Monserrate Palace - An Arabian inspired villa with intricate latticework stone carving and tranquil gardens. This is where to escape the tourist crowds of Sintra

If you are fortunate to have a car, there is also a lot to see within the hills of the Serra de Sintra. There is the stunning driving along the N247 between Almoçageme and Almuinhas Velhas, there is the forest-covered monastery of Convento dos Capuchos, the amazing viewpoint from the Sanctuary of Peninha and the Cabo da Roca cliffs - the most westerly point of mainland Europe.

The Sintra coastline also boasts many magnificent beaches, and these include the wild surfing beach of Guincho, the charming beach town of Praia das Maçãs, or the untamed natural beauty of Praia da Ursa.
Most visitors only consider Sintra for a day trip, but there is an amazing amount to see and do in within the region!

The interactive map below displays the highlights of Sintra and the Sintra region.
The green markers and line display what is usually seen in the first day of sightseeing in Sintra, the blue markers and line on a second day of sightseeing and the yellow pins display the best sights of the Sintra region, but a car (or guide) is needed to see them.
Note: Zoom out to see the regional yellow markers

Key: 1) Palácio Nacional de Sintra 2) Castelo dos Mouros 3) Palácio Nacional da Pena 4) Quinta da Regaleira 5) Palácio de Seteais 6) Vila Sassetti 7) Palácio de Monserrate 8) Convento dos Capuchos 9) Sanctuary of Peninha 10) N247 scenic drive 11) Cabo da Roca 12) Praia das Maçãs 13) Praia do Guincho (beach) 14) Praia da Ursa (beach) 15) Praia da Adraga (beach)
Related articles: Sights & attractions in Sintra

The battlements of the Moorish castle provide spectacular views over the Sintra region

A day trip to Sintra

The majority of tourists visit Sintra as a day trip, either from Lisbon or the resort towns of Cascais and Estoril. Sintra is an enjoyable day trip, as it has a lot to offer visitors, while being suitable for all ages.

Travel to Sintra is hassle-free, as there is a regular train service between Lisbon and Sintra, or a direct bus service from Cascais and Estoril (travel details are found later in this article). The most common route to combine the main sights in a single day of sightseeing is:
* Train or bus to Sintra
* Explore the historic centre of Sintra
* Palácio Nacional (orQuinta da Regaleira)
* Lunch in the historic centre
*Castelo dos Mouros
*Palácio Nacional da Pena (highlight of the day)
* Palácio da Pena gardens (optional)
* Hike to Cruz Alta (optional)

Most day-trippers to Sintra follow the same order, as this is the route of the 434-tourist bus. The 434-bus service connects Sintra train station to the historic centre and then climbs the steep hills to the Pena Palace and the Moorish castle before returning to the train station.
Related articles: A day trip to Sintra - Lisbon to Sintra - 434 tourist bus
Advice: Generally, we recommend Sintra as the first-day trip if you are based in Lisbon, or as the second-day trip if your holiday is to Cascais or Estoril (the first-day trip would be to Lisbon).

The decorative entrance to the Pena Palace

Two or three days in Sintra

Sintra is often visited as a day trip from Lisbon, but there are sufficient attractions to easily fill two or three days of sightseeing. Suggested itineraries for two or three days in Sintra, which follow on from the 1-day trip include:
A second day in Sintra
*Quinta da Regaleira and gardens (or the Palácio Nacional de Sintra)
* Palácio de Seteais
*Palácio de Monserrate
* Vila Sassetti and gardens (optional)
* Hike up the Caminho de Vila Sassetti (optional)
Third day in Sintra
*Convento dos Capuchos
* Peninha Sanctuary and viewpoint (highlight)
*Cabo da Roca
* Praia da Ursa or Praia da Adraga
* Chalet da Condessa D'Edla (Pena Park)
* Hike to Cruz Alta (Pena Park)
Note: this day trip requires a car
Related articles: A second day in Sintra - Sintra's secret sights

Why spend a night in Sintra?

Most tourists simply visit Sintra as a day trip but if you plan to spend two or three days exploring , it is worthwhile staying within the town. The main advantage of being based within Sintra is that the town can be explored once all the day-trippers and coach tours have left.

The key national monuments of Sintra have extending opening hours, and this allows visiting before or after the daytime rush. Sintra has a fantastic range of hotels, with many are in keeping with the style and charm of the region.

The map below shows the location of hotels and rental rooms in Sintra, and by altering the date to your holiday, the map will display current prices:

Why are there so many palaces and grand mansions in Sintra?

The historical reason is due to the slightly cooler climate that the hills of the Serra de Sintra provide. This enticed the nobility of Portugal to construct their summer residences here. During the 19th century, Sintra was a popular destination for Europe's wealthy artisans and elite, who built elaborate mansions following the Romanticism style of architecture.

The Quinta da Regaleira

Travel to Sintra

There are two regular and inexpensive train services that connect Lisbon to Sintra. The first service departs from Rossio station in central Lisbon, while the second departs from the Estação do Oriente. The train journey takes 40min (from Rossio) or 47min (from Oriente), and a return costs €4.50. The train service starts early in the morning and continues late into the night, and there are up to three departures per hour.

Advice: Never drive to Sintra. The narrow hill roads were never designed for today's heavy traffic, and there is almost no car parking. In the summer there is a constant traffic jam as frustrated drivers search for car parking spaces.

There are direct bus services to Sintra from the resort towns of Cascais and Estoril. The 417 service departs from Cascais bus station, takes 30 minutes and a single is €4.25. From Estoril, the bus service is the number 418 route, which departs from the train station and takes 30 minutes.
Related articles: Lisbon to Sintra - Cascais to Sintra - Estoril to Sintra

Sintra as part of an organised tour

There are a lot of benefits of visiting Sintra as a part of a small group tour. Sintra is a destination where the main tourist sights are spread across a wide region of steep hills, and a tour eliminates the hassle of public transport. Portuguese tour guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and the tours also cater for more worldly visitors.

An organised tour is the only way to visit both Sintra and Cascais in a single day; this route by public transport does not provide enough time for sightseeing. We have worked with GetYourGuide.com for the previous six years and some of their best Sintra tours include:

Does Sintra Portugal get crowded with day-trippers?

Unfortunately, Sintra can get very crowded in the summer. There can be long queues for admission tickets, the tourist buses run out of space and there can even be long queues in Rossio station.

Our key advice is to start a day trip to Sintra early in the day, or else try to avoid the peak hours of 11:00-15:00. Admission tickets can be purchased beforehand (please see GetYourGuide.com) to avoid some of the queues. Another tip to avoid the crowds is to visit the Palácio Nacional da Pena in the morning, as most visitors arrive in the afternoon when following the route of the 434-tourist bus.

There are quieter monuments and attractions in Sintra, our favourite is the Palácio de Monserrate.
Other quieter monuments include:
* Convento dos Capuchos
* Peninha Sanctuary
* Vila Sassetti Mansion
* Chalet da Condessa D'Edla
* The southern side of the Parque da Pena

The Santuário da Peninha is at the highest point of the Parque Natural de Sintra and is where to go to escape the tourist crowds

The 434 and 435 tourist buses

The walk from the historic centre of Sintra to the Palácio Nacional da Pena and the Castelo dos Mouros is up a very steep hill and is a very challenging walk. The 434-tourist bus removes this walk, as it connects the train station to the historic centre and then climbs the hill to the Palácio Nacional da Pena (via the Castle of the Moors ), before returning to the train station.

A hop-on-hop-off ticket for the entire route costs €6.90 or a single cost €3.90. The bus departs from the front of the train station with a departure of every 15 minutes at the height of the summer season.
Note: The 434-bus is the cheapest and best method to explore Sintra as a day trip, we use it all the time.

The 435-tourist bus connects the train station to the Palácio de Monserrate, and passes the historic centre, the Quinta da Regaleira and the Seteais Palace. This bus is ideal for the second day in Sintra. The hop-on-hop-off ticket costs €5.00.
Related articles: The 434-tourist bus

The 435 and 434 buses waiting at the train station

Our favourite attractions in Sintra

Our favourite attractions in Sintra are:
1) Palácio Nacional da Pena 2) Quinta da Regaleira 3) Palácio Nacional de Sintra 4) Palácio de Monserrate 5) Castelo dos Mouros 6) Palácio de Seteais 7) Vila Sassetti

The Castelo dos Mouros is postioned high above the old town of Sintra

The Romanticism style of architecture

The town of Sintra is Europe's finest example of the whimsical and colourful Romanticism style of architecture. This elaborate 19th-century design style was inspired by the love of art and the mysticism of ancient cultures, to create decorative and flamboyant buildings, of which the Palácio da Pena is the greatest example.

Our most popular guides to Sintra

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Sintra Portugal; a tourism guide updated for 2021!

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Sintra is a charming Portuguese town situated within the cooling hills of the Serra de Sintra. Hidden within these pine-covered hills are whimsical palaces, extravagant villas and the ruins of a Moorish castle. The variety of fascinating historic buildings and beautiful natural scenery combine to form an outstanding tourist destination.

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Moorish Castle ruins in Lisbon

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Castelo de S. Jorge (Lisbon) - 2021 All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos) - Tripadvisor

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What is Travelers' Choice? Tripadvisor gives a Travelers' Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor. Showing results 1-10 of 9,742

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Enjoy authentic Portuguese dishes such as the pastel de nata (Portuguese egg tart), Bifanas (the national Portuguese sandwich), and much more!

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When you think about traditional Portuguese food, what comes to mind?

Besides the famous Portuguese egg tarts or pastel de nata, can you name other local Portuguese dishes?

Portuguese cuisine is often overshadowed by the culinary traditions of its famous neighbors, Spain, Italy, and France,

The Portuguese love good food, and this simple joy permeates all aspects of life.

You'll find many regional Portuguese dishes across the country, emphasizing fish, meat, olive oil, bread, tomato, herbs, and spices.

The food in Portugal is made withsimple ingredients that are impeccably prepared.

The flavors are fresh and wholesome. And the list of local wines and beverages to wash everything down is extensive.

After exploring the local specialties in Portugal, we share 15 local and popular Portuguese dishes you should not miss.
Bom apetite!

1. Caldo Verde - Iconic Traditional Portuguese Food

From the north of Portugal comes Caldo Verde, the famous Portuguese soup. This is one of the most popular soups and typical Portuguese dishes.

While Caldo Verde soup is particularly popular in the winter, you can enjoy it all year round, whether it is warm or cold outside.

The soup isgreen in color and made with a particular dark green cabbage that is not widely available beyond Portugal's borders. Substitutes include collard greens or kale.

Wonderful flavors from the combination of potato puree, slices of chouriço sausage, and local Portuguese olive oil complete this delicious and hearty soup.

We enjoyed caldo verde on several occasions. The soup is simple and full of flavor and delicious textures.

While in Portugal, don't miss the delightful flavors of this famous food.

No trip to Portugal would be complete without indulging in this Portuguese traditional food.

Bacalhau or codfish is a national obsession. In Portugal, there are over 365 ways of preparing bacalhau dishes - one for each day of the year.

We loved the simplicity of this typical Portuguese seafood dish. The rich flavors and the multiple ways of eating it.

Bacalhau even landed on our personal list of "top 100 authentic food experiences to have before I die."

You'll find Portuguese codfish prepared in many different ways. From grilled, baked, canned, and fried, you'll easily find your eating pleasure.

Our favorite version is the Bacalhau à brás. This is a codfish and egg scramble that is very popular.

It is made with thin strips of Portuguese codfish mixed together with potatoes, eggs, onions, garlic, and olives and topped with chopped parsley.

Simple and uncomplicated, this is one of the most typical dishes not to miss in Portugal.

If you are curious and want to try Bacalhau, have it delivered to you by Amazon.

Of all the myriad ways of eating bacalhau, or what the Portuguese refer to as their "fiel amigo" or faithful friend, are codfish cakes.

Bolinhos de Bacalhau are crispy cod fritters typically eaten as a simple snack or starter.

They are a staple on most restaurant menus and are served hot or cold, with a side salad or rice.

In the north of Portugal, they are known asbolinhos de bacalhau and pasteis de bacalhau everywhere else.

The recipe for this beloved traditional Portuguese dish calls for a heavy presence of cod and mashed potatoes and plenty of parsley, onions, and eggs.

The ingredients are mixed and then shaped into balls before being deep-fried.

We particularly enjoyed these delicious little bites served hot and as appetizers.

You may find these cod fritters, sometimes referred to as croquettes.

Whatever name they take on the menu, don't miss this flavorful and delightful popular Portuguese food.

Grilled Portuguese sardines or sardinhas asadas is the summertime food of choice in Portugal.

In June, the smell of grilled sardines infuses the streets of Lisbon for the whole month. That's when Lisbon hosts the most popular festival dedicated to sardines.

The Day of Saint Anthony or Santo António Festival celebrates grilled sardines on June 12th and 13th.

From there, it kicks off the season for Festas de Sardinha all over Portugal, where several summer festivals are dedicated to sardines.

Why are sardines so popular? Historically, the Portuguese have relied heavily on seafood for food and commerce due to their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

Portuguese sardines are primarily consumed fresh with about 12 tons of sardines eaten per person every year.

The best time to eat fresh Portuguese sardines is during the peak season between June and August.

Fresh, grilled sardines are eaten directly from the charcoal grill, marinated with delicious Portuguese olive oil, and served with salads, rice, or potatoes.

Simply delicious, this is a feast for the tastebuds.

Portugal is also historically known for fish preservation, with canned sardines being one of its most popular culinary staples.

In recent years, eating canned sardines has become a gourmet activity, especially in Lisbon and Porto.

You will find canned Portuguese sardines typically served as petiscos or Portuguese tapas (small bites) at many bars and restaurants.

Presented in beautiful cans with artsy designs, thesardines are preserved in various condiments and ingredients.

From the simple olive oil, lemon, and tomato sauce to the more creative red pepper fennel, curry, or chickpeas.

In Portugal, you'll find a can of Portuguese sardines for every taste.

If you would Portuguese sardines delivered to your home, this wood gift box with sardines in 5 different sauces is available on Amazon.

Bifanas are traditional Portuguese pork sandwiches, so popular that you'll find them everywhere in the country.

The Portuguese sandwiches are made o f succulent, marinated pork served with crusty white bread.

The marinade is typically made with white wine and spices such as paprika and garlic, though each eatery has its own secret recipe.

Bifanas can be served with soup and fries for a full meal or with beer for a typical late-night Portuguese snack.

There are several variations of the bifana sandwich. You can add more ingredients to these Portuguese sandwiches, like a fried egg, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes, or stick with the traditional one.

The original bifana recipe is said to come from Vendas Novas, a small town in the Alentejo region.

While little is known about the original recipe, every Bifana eatery claims to make its own version of the original.

As far as sandwiches go, the bifana ranks as one of our favorites. You'll find the perfect combination of crunchy bread and flavorful pork that's so good you won't want to miss a bite.

The Francesinha sandwich is an impressive plated sandwich that will make your "heart sing."

In Porto, it is a very popular Portuguese food that you will see on almost every menu.

Made with bread, ham, sausages, and steak, the sandwich is typically covered with melted cheese and an egg on top.

What makes the francesinha unique is the secret sauce that each Portuguese restaurant prepares in its own special way.

The sauce is typically a hot, thick tomato and beer sauce used to dip or "flood" your sandwich. And the best part is that you can ask for more as needed, for no additional cost.

Francesinha literally means "little French girl." It is said to have been brought to Porto by an emigrant returning back from France.

This sandwich is an adaptation of the French toasted sandwich, croque-monsieur.

Served with a side of french fries, this famous Porto food packs calories, with loads of meats, cheese, and sauce combined.

Although it is quite heavy, it is surprisingly delightful. This is a flavorful Portuguese sandwich from Porto to enjoy in moderation.

During the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, Portuguese explorers traveled through coastal Africa and discovered many new spices.

One of the spices was a small spicy chili pepper known as Piri-Piri, Peri-Peri, or "African devil."

Today, Portuguese chicken covered in piri-piri, served with french fries and lettuce, tomato, and onion salad is a Portuguese national dish.

The chicken or frango, as it is known in Portuguese, is cut up in such a way that makes it easy for you to tuck in and get all the juicy bites around the bones.

You want to eat this chicken using your hands. Locals do not use a fork and knife.

You may be familiar with the popular chain Nando's, originally from South Africa, with Portuguese and Mozambique inspiration.

Nando's has spread chicken peri-peri globally, though you will not find Nando's in Portugal.

Piri piri chicken in Portugal is sold at churrascarias which you'll find in every neighborhood throughout the country.

Portuguese cuisine is famous for its delicious seafood. Beyond Bacalhau and sardines, octopus or polvo is another popular seafood dish loved by all.

Polvo à la lagareiro is a famous food in Portugal that you will find across the country. Lagareiro is a popular way of cooking seafood which includes using generous amounts of Portuguese olive oil.

Portuguese olive oil is a vital ingredient in Portuguese cuisine, particularly in seafood dishes.

In this traditional Portuguese food, the octopus is typically served with roasted potatoes. The potatoes and the octopus are baked with herbs, onions, and garlic.

Polvo à la lagareiro is deceptively simple to make and is one of the most delicious dishes you'll find in Portugal.

The octopus, when well cooked, is really tender and flavorful. The Portuguese olive oil adds a unique, fruity, and slightly bitter taste to this seafood dish.

With this popular Portuguese dish, you'll find yourself enjoying octopus as you've never before.

10. World Famous Porco Preto - Exceptional Portuguese Cured Ham

One of the most expensive cured hams in the world is Jamon Iberico de Bellota from Spain.

What is not commonly known is that the same pigs are found in Portugal, across the border from Spain, in the Alentejo region.

In Spanish, the pigs are known as Iberico pigs, and some are raised in Portugal in the Alentejo region.

Across the border in Portugal, the pigs are known as raça Alentejana. The pigs roam freely in the countryside, eating acorns of cork and holm oak trees.

The Alentejo black pigs produce amazing Portuguese ham with exceptional flavors. While in Portugal, we explored the food in Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region.

The luscious flavors of the high-quality and exceptional black pork or porco preto were mind-blowing.

On your travels to Portugal, you will definitely want to eat pork. You'll find Portuguese pork on restaurant menus and in dishes like plumas or secretos, which is pork shoulder.

And it is also quite popular in Portuguese tapas, known as presunto.

Don't miss the exceptional porco preto. The flavors are second to none.

This celebrated Portuguese black pork is unique to Southeastern Portugal and will simply melt in your mouth.

Alheira is a traditional Portuguese food with a fascinating background. These sausage were created by Portuguese Jews and are part of traditional Portuguese gastronomy.

These sausages from the northern region of Portugal are rich in flavor and history.

In the late 1400s, during the time of the Portuguese Inquisition, Jews in Portugal were forced to convert to Christianity.

So they invented alheira as a way to hang sausages from their smokehouses and disguise themselves as Christians.

But instead of using pork, they made alheira with a combination of chicken, rabbit, duck, or quail and created a horseshoe-shaped sausage.

In time, alheira spread throughout to become a popular Portuguese food.

Alheira is most commonly eaten as an appetizer, and it is also popular as a main dish.

It is grilled or lightly fried and typically served with rice, salad, and fries and topped with a fried egg.

One of the best Portuguese dishes to try is arroz de pato, or duck rice.

It's a comforting, traditional dish made with shredded duck, chouriço, onions, wine, and savory, aromatic rice.

The signature duck rice is one of the most popular Portuguese dishes. The rice is cooked in the juices of the duck and a little extra broth.

What results is a meaty, flavored, moist rice that's a little crunchy due to being put in the oven at the last minute.

This traditional Portuguese rice dish is packed with flavor and aromas. In Portugal, locals often enjoy arroz de pato at home on Sundays or for special occasions.

Seafood lovers can try arroz de marisco, or Portuguese seafood rice, made with a variety of shellfish, peppers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

Whichever filling rice dish you prefer, you will surely enjoy this taste of traditional Portugal food.

The variety of artisanal Portuguese cheeses surprised us while exploring local Portuguese food specialties.

Throughout the country, from north to south, there are amazing Portuguese cheeses, with some protected with the designation of origin labels (PDO).
Serra da Estrela, a PDO cheese, is one of Portugal's most famous cheeses.
The cheese known as Queijo Serra da Estrela is a sheep cheese produced with milk from sheep raised in Serra de Estrela, the highest mountain range in north-central Portugal.

Serra da Estrela is pale yellow in color with a sweet, clean, and slightly sour taste.

One reason this cheese is so popular is its versatility. It can be enjoyed fresh with a bit of salt and pepper or sweet, topped with honey, nuts, or preserves.

This cheese is also in traditional Portuguese dishes, especially dishes that are made with salted cod.

In 2014, Queijo Serra da Estrela was added to the Ark of Taste, a catalog maintained by the Slow Food Foundation.

14. Pastel de Nata - Iconic Portuguese Dessert

Pastel de nata or Pastéis de natas (in plural) is an iconic and famous Portuguese dessert.

While every pastry shop has its own version, the sweet and creamy Portuguese egg tarts are made of flour, butter, eggs, cinnamon, and sugar.

Lots of butter is layered in the dough, giving the shells their crispy, crackling texture.

Pastel de nata is served warm with a small strong cup of Portuguese coffee, called bica in Lisbon.

One bite into this sweet, crispy, creamy custard will make your eyes roll in delight. And, be warned, as they are deliciously addictive.

Did you know that theoriginal Portuguese egg tart is actually called Pastel de Belém?

Pastéis de natas are said to have originated in a Belém pastry shop in 1837. They were made by Monks who were expelled during a revolution in 1820 and began baking pastries to make money.

Today, the bakery shop, Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém has preserved the traditional recipe. They bake over 10,000 Portuguese egg tarts daily to serve the many visitors seeking to taste this unique treat.

This is the only store that can sell these Portuguese pastries under the name Pastel de Belém.

After eating many mouthwatering pastéis de nata egg tarts, our preference goes to the original Pastel de Belém.

Our second favorite is the Pastel de Nata from Manteigueira in Lisbon, featured in our Lisbon food tour article.

15. Portuguese Desserts - Conventual Portuguese Treats

Beyond pastéis de nata, the most popular Portuguese desserts are what the Portuguese call conventual desserts.

Conventual desserts are pastries that were created in convents and monasteries, typically made with lots of egg yolks and large amounts of sugar. Other common ingredients are almonds or cinnamon.

Traditionally, egg whites were used in convents to starch the priest's clothing and the nuns' robes.

Left with the egg yolks and time to kill, the nuns had to get creative. Making the most delicious and famous desserts became a tradition in Portugal.

As a result, every city and every region has its own conventual desserts, competing for the best-in-class Portuguese desserts.

In Sintra, you can taste the Queijadas de Sintraand can compare it with Queijadas de Evorafrom Evora.

In Braga, you'll experience the traditional Tíbias de Braga, a puff pastry filled with a soft sweet, creamy paste with powdered sugar on top.

In Alentejo, you will find Sericaia, a typical Alentejano dessert from the Convents of Elvas, a city east of Évora.

Add to these, Pao de Lo, Queijadas, Toucinho do céu, Travesseiro, and other Portuguese conventual desserts your tastebuds will love.

In Portugal, there are no shortages of conventual desserts. These conventual desserts are a tasty finish to a Portuguese dish.

Portugal has a lot to offer in terms of traditional Portuguese foods and wines.

You'll find amazing Portuguese seafood dishes, world-famous Portuguese pork and bacalhau dishes, and a wide array of conventual desserts.

With everyday favorites like Portuguese chicken and sandwiches, there is plenty of local dishes to savor.

This list of the 15 most popular Portuguese dishes is only an introduction. There are a lot more traditional Portuguese foods to discover. Use this list to guide your food choices as you travel through Portugal.

Portuguese dishes deserve more recognition worldwide. After you've enjoyed these local dishes, you'll no doubt join us in singing the praises of Portuguese gastronomy.
Have you had Portuguese food before? What were your favorite Portuguese dishes? Please let us know in the comments below. Savor The Adventure!

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15 Most Popular Portuguese Food You Can't Wait To Enjoy

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If you are visiting Portugal, don't miss on the Portuguese food and these popular Portuguese dishes. Come to try them today with our recipes while...

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Visit the two Michelin Star Yeatman Hotel Restaurant. It has an amazing view and an exotic variety of delectable seafood.

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The best restaurants in Portugal aren't just about Michelin Stars. Although the country has plenty of those. From gourmet restaurants in Lisbon to beach bars in the Algarve, here's our round up of the top places to eat in Portugal right now. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Portugal, your essential guide for visiting Portugal.

Related tailor-made travel itineraries for Portugal

1 - The Yeatman Hotel, Porto

With two Michelin Stars, The Yeatman is one of the best restaurants in Portugal. Its dining room overlooks Porto's Ribeira district. Fleets of waiters tend to you. The fish tasting menu's sublime. Delicacies like sea urchin sit with tuna and turbot. And each dish is paired with perfect wine. The restaurant's cellar is legendary.

2 - A Casa Guedes, Porto

A Casa Guedes feeds you for less than The Yeatman. But you won't find a tastier pork sandwich anywhere. It's a humble place. More café bar than restaurant. And it's next to Porto's Jardim de Marquês de Oliveira.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Portugal or Portugal Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Portugal expert.

3 - Mini Bar, Lisbon

Michelin-Star restaurants in Lisbon don't come better than Mini Bar. It's run by Michelin-Star chef José Avillez. And tucked into Art Deco Teatro de São Luis. So it serves a suitably theatrical menu. Think seaweed ice-cream cones filled with tuna tartare. Or 'exploding' olives. All served in a series of memorable 'acts'. Like courses, only more dramatic.

Stroll home after dinner to Bairro Alto Hotel in Lisbon's coolest quarter.

4 - Midori, Penha Longa, Sintra

Japanese Midori was the first ethnic restaurant in Portugal to be awarded a Michelin Star. You'll find Midori in Sintra. Choose a seven or nine-course tasting menu. Enjoy delicacies like mackerel tataki with crispy tomato and gazpacho. Try turbot with bell pepper nasu dengaku. Or savour smoked tuna nigiri . And always leave room for sake jelly.

Curious about Midor's location? Take a guided day trip to Sintra from Lisbon.

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Related articles from the blog

5- Noélia & Jerónimo, Cabanas, Algarve

Book ahead for Noélia & Jeronimo. This waterfront restaurant outside Faro is very popular. Chef Noélia adds creative flair to traditional Portuguese ingredients. And the results are divine. Go for octopus fritters. Stay for John Dory with coriander rice. And know: Portugal's top chefs eat here.

6 - Rei das Praias, Praia da Caneiros, Algarve

Go to Portimão off-season. Chances are you'll have pretty Praia da Caneiros to yourself. And you can't miss Rei das Praias. It's the restaurant on stilts, on the sand. An upmarket place, despite the stilts. It serves the Algarve's seafood flawlessly. Start off with oysters. Or try clams in garlic sauce. Move on to succulent fish baked in salt. Or opt for fish cataplana - seafood broth made in a giant wok.

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In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

7 - Choupana, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Alentejo

In Portugal location alone can make a restaurant special. Head to Choupana in Vila Nova de Milfontes as proof. When the tide's up here, you're at one with the Atlantic. Waves crash against the waterside terrace. And catch of the day is prepared outside, on a grill. So the food's as fresh as the sea. And sunsets on the side are gorgeous.

Mix restaurants in Lisbon with a guided food and wine tour of the city.

8 - Adega 25 Abril, Beja, Alentejo

Tapas isn't a big deal in Portugal. But don't miss tapas-like starters. Adega 25 Abril in Beja is where to try them. Think pungent sheep's cheese. Imagine chouriço and small black olives. Dream about crusty local bread. Then order up a selection. Add red Alentejan wine. And you might not need a main. However, Adega's grilled meats are also very good.

Ready for a trip to Portugal? Check out the snapshot Rough Guide to Portugal. Read more about the best time to go to Portugal, the best places to visit and best things to do in Portugal. For inspiration use the Portugal Itineraries from The Rough Guide to Portugal and our local travel experts. A bit more hands on, learn about getting there, getting around the country and where to stay once you are there. And don't forget to buy travel insurance before you go.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Travel advice for Portugal

Planning on your own? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Find even more inspiration for Portugal here

PLAN MY TRIP ⤍

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The best restaurants in Portugal aren't just about Michelin Stars. Although the country has plenty of those. From gourmet restaurants in Lisbon to beach bars in the Algarve, here's our round up of the top places to eat in Portugal right now.

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This famous church building is one of most popular tourist attractions in Portugal. Inside lies the tomb of Vasco, da Gama, one of the most famous Portuguese explorers.

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The Jerónimos Monastery, also called Hieronymites Monastery, is along with the Tower of Belém, one of the most visited sites in Lisbon. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1983. This landmark is called Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Portuguese.

The religious building was designed by the Portuguese architect Diogo de Boitaca to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India. The construction began on 6 January 1501 and wasn't completed until the seventeenth century. The building is predominantly Manueline style (Portuguese late Gothic).

Curiously, the monastery was built on the site of the former Ermida do Restelo, the chapel where Vasco da Gama and the rest of the sailors prayed before setting sail down the African coast to India.

The Church

The Church of Santa Maria is unique in the world. It is completely different from the rest. The temple has a single nave that is held up by six beautifully sculpted columns and the church seems to go on forever.

The Church houses the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões, a Portuguese poet and writer.

Cloister

The Jerónimos Monastery's two-story cloister is even more beautiful than Lisbon Cathedral's nunnery. It is much larger and its decorative ornamentation and symbolism are breath-taking.

When you explore the cloister, you'll see the church of Santa Maria from above and the tomb of Fernando Pessoa, a renowned Portuguese writer and poet. One of the cloister's halls is dedicated to the history of the Monastery, which is compared to the country and the rest of the world's evolution.

Nearby landmarks

After visiting the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, we recommend heading to the Archaeology Museum, which is located in the building adjacent to the monastery. Moreover, Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries are also close by. These two monuments and the Jerónimos Monastery represent Portugal's most prosperous period and are definitely worth visiting.

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Jerónimos Monastery - Hours, tickets, how to get there

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The Jerónimos Monastery (Hieronymites Monastery) is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lisbon. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1983.

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View the stunning castle ruins, the historical landmarks, and hike the Penha hill for an extraordinary view.

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Guimarães is a delightful and charming city, which must be visited during your holiday to the Porto region. Guimarães is affectionately referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, and the city has a beautifully preserved historic centre, full of fascinating monuments and attractions.

Guimarães is ideal for a day trip from Porto; there are sufficient sights to easily fill a day's sightseeing, and there is a direct train connecting Porto to Guimarães.
This article will provide a guide to day trip Guimarães, and includes travel advice, details of the most popular attractions and a suggested tour with interactive map.
Related articles: Guimarães introduction - Day trips from Porto - 1 week in Porto

A suggested 1-day tour of Guimarães

Below is an interactive map for our suggested 1-day tour to Guimarães. The tour of the historic centre is highlighted in green, with the optional trip to Penha Hill marked in yellow.
Info: Most visitors travel to Guimarães by train and the station is situated to the south of the city. The main car park is to the north of the city and also marked on the map.

Sights of Guimarães: 1) Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação 2) Largo República do Brasil 3) Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira 4) Largo da Oliveira 5) Antiga câmara municipal 6) Praça de São Tiago 7) Convento de Santa Clara 8) Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo 9) Paço dos Duques de Bragança 10) Igreja de Sao Miguel 11) Castelo de Guimarães 12) Estátua a Dom Afonso Henriques 13) Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos 14) Largo do Toural 15) "Aqui Nasceu Portugal" 16) Capela de São Francisco

Highlights during a day trip to Guimarães are...
* The delightful Largo da Oliveira
* The Medieval Paço dos Duques de Bragança palace
* Ancient ruins of the Castelo de Guimarães
* The view from the top of Penha Hill (613m)

The following sections of this article will provide a detailed guide to all of the stages for a day trip to Guimarães.

Guimarães, Braga or both together?

Braga is a historic Portuguese city which is regarded as the religious capital of the country, and is the other popular day trip from Porto.

It is too much to visit both Guimarães and Braga in a single day, even if you have a rental car, as each city requires one day of sightseeing. There are organised tours that visit both destinations in one day, but these tours only include the major sights.

In our opinion, Guimarães is the more characterful and interesting destination. Braga has more monuments and tourist sights, but these are all of a religious nature. If you have an extended stay in Porto, both Guimarães and Braga should be visited as day trips along with Aveiro, the Douro Valley and Viana do Castelo.
Related articles: Braga day trip - Porto day trips

Porto to Guimarães by train

There is a direct train to Guimarães, which departs from the São Bento train station in central Porto. The journey takes 75-85 minutes and a return adult fare is €6.40.
Insider tip: For your day trip to Guimarães, it is advisable to plan the day around train times, as there can be a wait of up to two hours between departures from Guimarães in the afternoon. Generally, for your day trip plan to be catching either the daily 15:53 service back to Porto or the 17:13 (Monday-Friday) 17:53 (weekend/public holiday) (correct Sep 2020).
For the latest timetable, please see the Comboios de Portugal (CP) website:<
www.cp.pt/StaticFiles/timetables/oporto-guimaraes-urban-trains.pdf
Note: the link is to a PDF so may download on certain mobile phones

Guimarães train station is to the south of the city and it is a 500m walk to the historic centre from the station.
Related articles: Porto to Guimarães

Have you considered a group tour of Guimarães?

Small group tours are an enjoyable and informative way to discover Guimarães, along with providing a chance to meet fellow travellers. Since the introduction of rating and reviews, the standard of group tours in Portugal has dramatically improved. Now tours are led by enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides, and cater for modern and worldly tourists.
We have worked with GetYourGuide.com for the previous six years and some of their best tours they offer for Guimarães include:

Full guide to a day trip to Guimarães

Guimarães train station is located to the south of the city and it is a short walk to the historic centre. On arrival, tourists should turn right out of the station entrance and at the roundabout turn left down the Avenida Dom João IV. After 700m this leads to the pretty Nossa Senhora da Consolação (1).

Walking down the Largo Republica do Brasil (2) leads to the historical heart of the city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic area is centred around two delightful plazas, the Largo da Oliveira and Praça de São Tiago.

On the Largo da Oliveira is the pretty Antiga Câmara Municipal (5) and the Gothic Igreja da Colegiada church. Housed in the cloister of this ancient church is the Museu de Alberto Sampaio (3), which exhibits religious art and sacred artefacts.

From the Praça de São Tiago, head north to the castle and the oldest section of Guimarães. This route passes the Convento de Santa Clara (7), the Igreja do Carmo church (8) and the pretty gardens of Jardim do Carmo.

The Paço Dos Duques De Bragança (9) is a sombre looking palace, constructed by the first Duke of Braganza in the 15th century. Inside this imposing building are staterooms decorated with tapestries and furniture from the 15th century.

Between the Paço Dos Duques De Bragança and the castle is one of the oldest chapels in Portugal, the Igreja de Sao Miguel do Castelo (10). In this small chapel the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was baptised using the font that stands by the door.

At the top of the hill are the ruins of the ancient Castelo de Guimarães (11), originally constructed in 960 and greatly strengthened during the 13th century. The castle is fascinating as it interlinks with the boulders it is constructed upon, and comprises of a keep and four watchtowers.

Across from the castle is the Misericórdia de Guimarães (13), with its stunning sacristy and church. The Misericórdia was an early religious charity that provided hospitals for the poor and needy, and purchased the Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos in 1842.

The next stage of the day heads back to the historic centre of Guimarães and takes in the sights to the western side. This is an ideal time for lunch, and there are many decent open-air restaurants in the Praça de Santiago or Largo da Oliveira.

The Largo do Toural (14) is the main square of Guimarães, and dates from the 18th century when it was used as a market and cattle fair. On the edge of the plaza is a section of the city walls with the famed inscription "Aqui Nasceu Portugal" (15) (here was born Portugal).

Penha Hill
The cable car (Teleférico de Guimarães) to Penha Hill is located in the south-eastern side of the city and is well signposted. A return trip costs €4.50 while a single cost €2.30.
Advice: Always check the departure times of the cable car as it is a long downhill walk back into Guimarães.

At the top of the hill is the Santuário da Penha church (yellow 2) and the best viewpoint is at the summit of the hill (613m high) (yellow 3).

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Guimarães is a delightful and charming city, which must be visited during your holiday to the Porto region. Guimarães is affectionately referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, and the city has a beautifully preserved historic centre, full of fascinating monuments and attractions.

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Visiting mainland Portugal is a destination included in everyone's bucket list. But not everyone knows that Portugal actually houses some of the most beautiful and fascinating islands on earth. Portugal actually has twenty tree inhabited islands scattered across the Atlantic Ocean. Each one of them has a distinct culture and unique spirit to it. You will enjoy some of the best surfing in the world, taste mouthwatering local dishes, visit Christopher Columbus' house, breathtaking scenery, instagrammable views, and stunning sandy white beaches. What more could you want in a vacation?

So, let's explore seven of the most stunning Portuguese islands, shall we?

1. Sao Miguel Island

Sao Miguel is a part of the popular group of Portuguese islands, called the Azores Islands. Scattered throughout the island are volcanic calderas and the abundance of mineral hot springs which is a perfect place to relax on a long day spent sightseeing around the island.

If you are an adventure-seeker, you can go on a hike through the hiking trails surrounding the Sete Cidades Caldera are among the best in the Azores. Sao Miguel is also known for its beautiful beaches and dolphin and whale watching tours, and there is no shortage of guided boat tours to let you spot them in the wild.

Location: Azores
Best time to visit: April to November

2. Flores Island

Flores is another island from the Azores Islands group. The name of the island is derived from the abundance of colorful flowers on the island. The landscape is impressive and full of high peaks and deep valleys. The scenery throughout the whole island is so impressive and unbelievingly beautiful which makes it the most instagrammable island in all of Portugal. Flores speaks to all the nature lovers out there; you can enjoy kayaking, hiking, swimming, and even whale watching. Flores also has a number of waterfalls, including the infamous Poco do Bacalhao Falls close to Faja Grande.

Location: Azores
Best time to visit: mid-April to mid-October

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7 Best Portuguese Islands You Should Visit

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Visiting Portugal is a destination on everyone's bucket list. But not everyone knows that Portugal houses some of the most beautiful islands on earth. Enjoy some of the best surfing in the world, breathtaking scenery, and stunning beaches. What more could you want in a vacation?

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Enjoy the beautiful warm, sandy beaches of the Algarve, located in southern Portugal.

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The Algarve is the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal. It is a region blessed with stunning beaches, picturesque fishing towns and a glorious climate, all of which combine to create the perfect holiday destination.

The Algarve is wonderfully varied, able to appeal to a wide cross-section of tourists; there are pristine beaches for families, waterparks and theme parks for thrill-seekers, buzzing nightlife for partying and historic towns for cultural visitors.
No matter your holiday style you will find it within the beautiful Algarve.

For a holiday destination the Algarve is a hassle-free destination; the region is very safe, hotels are of a high standard, English is widely spoken, and the Portuguese are welcoming and hospitable.

The Algarve provides some of the best value for money in Europe; being the second least expensive holiday destination in Europe (BBC article and Post Office data).
This article will provide an introduction to the Algarve, and help you plan your trip to this wonderful region.
Related articles: Top 10 of the Algarve - 1-week tour of the Algarve

The weather of the Algarve

The Algarve has long hot summers, pleasant spring/autumns and winters that are mild but unpredictable with an equal number of bright days as wet days. The height of the tourist season is from July through to August and this is when the beaches are packed and hotels are sold out.

June and September tend to be popular months with couples, being outside of the school holidays and without the hordes of children, but there is still fantastic weather and a buzz about the region. The weather is suitable for spending time on the beach from May until the end of September.

Summary of the Algarve's Major Towns and Resorts

Where to go for your holiday......

Quick summary of the main resorts within the Algarve and links to the specific destination guides
(Note: links open new tabs)
Our favourite places in the Algarve - , and
Best large resort town - , or .
Best smaller resort town - ,Praia da Luz or
For young children - Most all of the central Algarve (just not the Strip in the Albufeira)
For teenagers -
to Olhos de Agua, andPraia da Rocha,
Where to party - Albufeira, Praia da Rocha or
For a mature and relaxing holiday - , ,Praia da Luz, or Olhos de Agua
Expats favourite - Olhos de Agua and Albufeira
Exclusive and stylish - or Vale Do Lobo Region
Historic and cultural - Lagos, , Faro orVila Real de Santo António
Stag or hen do's - The Strip in Albufeira (Stag do guide here)
Somewhere different - , Tavira, orMonte Gordo
Golfing Holiday - , Albufeira or
Surfing Holiday -
In winter - Albufeira, Lagos or Olhos de Agua (the Algarve is not a winter sun destination)
Escape package tourists -Vila Nova de Milfontes, Burgau, Vila Real de Santo António
Up and coming for 2020 - Tavira and Monte Gordo
If the Algarve is sold out or is too expensive in the summer - or
(Lisbon and Porto both have great beaches, cheap flights and lots of accommodation, ideal for families and couples)

The Algarve as a multi-destination or touring holiday

Some of the most enjoyable Algarve holidays come from a touring or multi-destination trip. Each of the coastal towns has a very distinct atmosphere and appeal, and there are not long distances separating them.

Popular routes combine the calmer and relaxed eastern Algarve (Tavira or Vila Real de Santo António) with the buzz on the central Algarve (Vilamoura or Albufeira) then with the history and authenticity of the western Algarve (Lagos, Portimao or Sagres). For a full guide to a series of touring holidays please see this article.

The Algarve for a family holiday

The Algarve makes for a great destination for a family holiday, both for young children or teenagers. For young families there are calm, smaller resorts (Alvor, Praia da Luz, Carvoeiro) with pristine beaches and safe sea waters. Teenagers will love the buzz of the central Algarve, with its theme parks, water parks and numerous thrill activities (though parents may grumble about the expensive entrance fees....)

Overall, the Algarve is a hassle-free family destination, English is widely spoken by all, children will be welcomed in all restaurants/shops/cafes, and supermarkets stock all common goods and brands. We have been visiting the Algarve with children and families for many years, and often the main complaint is why did they not discover the Algarve sooner!

For older teenagers and twentysomethings......

It's finally the end of college, university or the summer break from listening to the monotony of your boss, and you and your group of friends need a dose of summer sun and fun; then the Algarve is the destination for you.

It is perfect for days lounging on the beach and fun-packed nights with a smattering of holiday-based activities. The Algarve is vibrant and social but is not as extreme as Bulgaria, Ibiza or Cyprus. Also, the Algarve does not have the ridiculous prices of the Balearica Islands.

To get the most from the Algarve, always be within walking distance of the larger resort towns (Albufeira, Praia da Rocha and Lagos), and visit between June and September. And most importantly don't forget travel insurance!!!!

For visitors from the USA

Portugal is rightfully becoming one of the most popular destinations for US tourists; there's history, culture, and diversity, while still being one of Europe's least expensive countries to visit. The Algarve is one of the most beautiful regions of the country, but it cannot be fully seen in just an extremely short excursion from Lisbon. If you're planning to visit the Algarve, allow sufficient time (five or more days) and embrace the relaxed pace of life of the region.

As indicated before, hotels need to be booked well in advance during the summer. For a cultural trip head to Lagos or Tavira, while for 5-star/golfing break visit Vilamoura. Public transport does not have the same social stigmas as in the US, and buses and trains are widely used by everyone.

There have been a number of sham residential letting websites, which have appeared on the internet, with bogus or copied listings (often of real apartments). These websites look professional (guarantees, refund polices etc) and often the comparative prices are significantly cheaper.

Only ever book an apartment through a trusted website (booking.com, homeaway.co.uk etc) and never pay for accommodation by bank transfer. For more details please see the TripAdvisor forum post:
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g189111-i330-k11450362-Beware_Villa_Scam_bogus_company_PT_Villas_Algarve-Algarve.html

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Note: This type of scam is not just limited to the Algarve but is found in all major tourist destinations. The Algarve is just ripe for it, as demand for accommodation outstrips supply.

Practicalities for The Algarve

The Algarve is served by Faro airport, and this airport is conveniently positioned in the middle of the Algarve. The majority of tourists who visit the Algarve will be based in the section of coastline that extends from the Praia da Rocha to Vilamoura, all of which are located to the west of Faro airport. Outside of this area more traditional and quieter Portuguese towns can be found.

Summary of the Finest and most Popular Towns in the Algarve

Tavira - The Algarve's Hidden gem

Tavira is a delightful town that is situated on the banks of the slow flowing Gilão River. The town of Tavira has reminded unchanged despite the advent of mass tourism, and provides the visitors with a charming town centre of cobbled streets, lined with traditional houses, which lead all the way up to the ancient castle. The glorious beaches on the Ilha de Tavira are reached by ferry and the route passes through the protected series of mudflats and salt water lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Tavira is laid-back, traditional and our personal favourite town in the Algarve. For a guide to Tavira please visit Tavira-Algarve-Portugal.com (link opens new window)

Tavira Quick Summary
Ideal For - Couples who wish to discover the unaltered side of Portugal, or any visitor looking for a peaceful relaxing holiday in a wonderful town.
Not suited For - Party goers, since Tavira is a traditional and calm town. Families with older children, as Tavira is a long way from the water parks, zoos and adventure that most children want to visit during a holiday.

The river front of Tavira

Albufeira - The Algarve's Most popular resort

Albufeira is the most popular resort town of the Algarve, and this is because it excels at everything wanted for a holiday destination. The beach is massive, there are great holiday activities and the pretty old town is crammed full of restaurants, shops and bars.

For groups and party goers there is "the Strip", a road full of themed bars and outrageous clubs, which is just far enough (2km away) from the Old Town not to annoy other tourists. As Albufeira is the largest resort, the summer season is much longer, and there are still things going on during the low or off season. There are many enjoyable day trips from Albufeira for those visitors who wish more than just a beach, while the massive all-inclusive hotels are great for tourists who simply wish to relax.
Albufeira Quick Summary
The massive beach of Albufeira

Lagos - History and Stunning Scenery

Lagos is on the very western edge of the Algarve and is one of the region's most fascinating and interesting towns. Lagos is set on a stunning coastline of massive sandstone cliffs, wide beaches and crystal clear waters. Within the vicinity of Lagos is the Dona Ana beach, which is considered to be the finest in the Algarve, while further along the coast are the stunning cliff formations of the Ponta da Piedade.

Lagos has an important history as a major trading town, a rich history that is reflected in the varied sights throughout the town, which include the fort, a selection of pretty churches and even an ex-slave market. From Lagos there are enjoyable day trips to the small fishing village of Sagres, or north into the Algarve hills. For a guide to Lagos please click here (opens new window)
Lagos Quick Summary
The historic centre of Lagos

Vilamoura - The Algarve's Exclusive Town

Vilamoura is the super-rich's playground in the Algarve. The whole town was purpose-built as an exclusive destination that is focused around the larger marina and is filled with million dollar yachts. The town boasts six championship-grade golf courses and is the location to be based for a golfing holiday, just expect expensive green fees. Vilamoura is smart, stylish and trendy, and completely without the signs of neglect found on the edges of many other Portuguese towns.
Vilamoura Quick Summary
Faro is often over looked as a tourist destination, being primary used as a transport hub for the airport, train or bus services, but this beautiful city has a lot to offer. Faro boasts a charming historic centre, which is circled by ancient Moorish walls, and a pleasant pedestrianised shopping zone. Departing from the marina there are boat tours which explore the Ria Formosa National Park and visit some of the quietest beach in the Algarve. Faro's main beach, the Praia de Faro, is surprisingly low-key considering it is just a 5 minute bus journey from the airport. For a guide to Faro please click here.
Faro Quick Summary
The historic centre of Faro overlooking the Ria Formosa national park

Praia da Rocha - Good alternative to Albufeira

Praia da Rocha is a large and hectic summer resort, that crams in visitors during the summer season. There is a massive beach (larger than Albufeira's beach), which on following the coastline changes into little coves hidden behind giant sandstone cliffs. The resort has countless bars, restaurants and shops but has a much more modern appearance than Albufeira. 2km north of Praia da Rocha is the large but sleepy town of Portimão; for beaches and nightlife it's better to be based in Praia da Rocha, and not Portimão. Praia da Rocha is suitable for families as well.
Praia da Rocha Quick Summary
The massive beach of Praia da Rocha

Quarteira - Budget Vilamoura

Quarteira is where the non-millionaires of Vilamoura live and work, but it is just a 10-minute walk from Quarteira along the coast to it's exclusive neighbour Vilamoura. Quarteira has a much better beach than Vilamoura and a pleasant promenade extends for the length of the beach. Quarteira offers great value accommodation, food and drink but the town has very bland appearance with large apartments, hotels and none of the Portuguese charm found in other locations. Quarteira is much quieter and smaller than Albufeira or Praia da Rocha.
Quarteira Quick Summary
The promenade of Quarteira beach front

Our most popular guides to the Algarve

All of our guides to the Algarve

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The Algarve, Portugal a Tourism and Holiday Guide - Updated for 2020!

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The Algarve is the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal. It is a region blessed with stunning beaches, picturesque fishing towns and a glorious climate, all of which combine to create the perfect holiday destination.

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Visiting Pena Palace

What are the Pena Palace opening hours?
Park is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Last entry will be at 6:00 PM
National Palace of Pena is open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Last entry will be at 6:00 PM

Where is the Pena Palace located?
Pena Palace Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal

How to get to Pena Palace?
Pena Palace is located in Sintra, around 4 km away from the Sintra National Palace and is easily accessible by bus, train, and car.

What facilities can I expect at Pena Palace?
Coffee shops and restaurants, stores and wheelchair access are some of the facilities you can expect at Pena Palace.

Pene Palace Location

Address and Directions

Pena Palace is located in Sintra, around 4 km away from the Sintra National Palace and is easily accessible by bus, train, and car.
Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal

How to get to Pena Palace

By Train

Take CP - Sintra line to reach the Sintra train station. From here, you'll have to head down to board bus number 434. It takes 25-30 minutes to reach the Pena Palace from the station.

By Bus

You can board bus number 434 or 516 to reach Pena Palace. Nearest bus stop is Palacio de Pena, a few minutes away from the palace. The bus departs every 15 minutes and takes less than 30 minutes to reach the venue.

By Car

If you plan to get to Pena Palace by car, there are several options available depending on where you're travelling from. You can either take route IC19 if you're arriving from Lisbon or route IC30 from Mafra or route EN9 (via A5 / Cascais if you're travelling from Cascais.

Pena Palace Opening Times

Park and National Palace of Pena:
Park: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Last entry at 6:00 PM
Palace: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Last entry at 6:00 PM

Shopping at Pena Palace

Take some time off with family and friends to make your way into the Palace store. Here you can find a wide range of products and publications that highlight the culture of Portugese. From porcelain, tiles to filigree, cork items and even enriching articles - the Palace store has something for everyone.

Apart from this, you can also visit the Park store and Lake store that brings to you a collection of interesting products inspired from Parques de Sintra along with helpful guides, routes and other outdoor equipment giving you a seamless experience.

Pena Palace Restaurants

Dine with a view of the park and the palace at the Palace restaurant situated in the Room of Arches, located on the upper floor of the neo-Indian building. Alternatively, you can also opt for the Garden cafeteria where you'll get to unwind with your family and friends whilst overlooking the Garden of Queen Amelia from the terrace.

Pena Palace FAQs

Park and National Palace of Pena:
Park: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Last entry at 6:00 PM
Palace: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Last entry at 6:00 PM

Pena Palace is located in Sintra, around 4 km away from the Sintra National Palace and is easily accessible by bus, train, and car.

Via Train
Take CP - Sintra line to reach the Sintra train station. From here, you'll have to head down to board bus number 434. It takes 25-30 minutes to reach the Pena Palace from the station.

Via Bus
You can board bus number 434 or 516 to reach Pena Palace. Nearest bus stop is Palacio de Pena, a few minutes away from the palace. The bus departs every 15 minutes and takes less than 30 minutes to reach the venue.

Via Car
If you plan to get to Pena Palace by car, there are several options available depending on where you're travelling from. You can either take route IC19 if you're arriving from Lisbon or route IC30 from Mafra or route EN9 (via A5 / Cascais if you're travelling from Cascais.

Guests can get a full refund on cancelling their reservation 24 hours before the scheduled date.

Manual wheelchairs with folding chassis are available on reservation at all entrances to Pena Palace. Two traction equipment are available, adaptable to the vast majority of manual wheelchairs, allowing you to visit the recommended routes in the Park and outside terraces of the Pena Palace.

Please note: The interior of the Palace is not accessible to people with reduced mobility due to the existence of steps along the entire route. The group room at the Palácio da Pena is accessible via a Lift Platform.

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Pena Palace Opening Hours, Location, Restaurants and More

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What are the Pena Palace opening hours? Park is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM Last entry will be at 6:00 PM National Palace of Pena is open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM Last entry will be at 6:00 PM Where is the Pena Palace located?

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At the beaches of Portugal, you can surf, swim, hike, or just enjoy the scenery from a beachside restaurant.

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For many, the best beaches in Portugal are in the Algarve. But the country's coast stretches for 1,700km. And beautiful beaches exist in less touristy areas.

Here's our pick of 10 top beaches in the Algarve and beyond. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Portugal, your essential guide for visiting Portugal.

1 - Praia de Tavira, Algarve - easy to reach island beach

Praia de Tavira is on Ilha de Tavira. This sandbar island runs from Tavira towards Fuseta. And there's a ferry from the mainland.

Where to stay

Stay nearby at Pousada Convento de Tavira in Tavira old town.

What to do

Take a tuk tuk tour of Santa Luzia and Fuseta villages. See octopus traps on the jetty. Discover Tavira's salt pans. And marvel at wild, watery Ria Formosa.

2 - Praia da Marinha and Benagil in Algarve

Discover the coast between Armação de Pêra and Centianes. This is the undeveloped stretch for Praia da Marinha and Benagil.

Where to stay near Praia da Marinha

Stay at Holiday Inn Algarve in Armacão de Pêra.

What to do in Benagil

Want to really explore Benagil? Take a speed boat tour boat tour to visit the sea caves and spot dolphins.

3 - Nazaré, Ribatejo - the record breaking surf beach

Nazaré is one of Portugal's top surf towns. And it has all the trimmings that come with that. But it also has a great beach.

Where to stay in Nazaré

The Hotel Mar Bravo overlooks Nazaré beach.

What to do in Nazaré

Discover what's under the waves at Nazaré. Book a two hour diving session with expert local guides.

4 - Praia de Odeceixe, Algarve - great beach for swimming

The village of Odeceixe comes alive in summer. It attracts streams of surfers and visitors. And the biggest draw is Praia de Odeceixe.

Where to stay in Odeceixe

Choose Residencia do Parque for good value and a central village location.

What to do in Odeceixe

Rent stand up paddle boards and explore Odeceixe beyond the beach.

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Related articles from the blog

5 - Foz de Minho, Minho - Portugal's most northerly beach

Foz de Minho is Portugal's most northern beach. Find it just southwest of Caminha town.

Where to stay in Caminha

Stay at Caminha's biggest resort, Hotel Porta do Sol.

What to do in Minho

Short on time? Take a trip from Porto to discover Minho in a day.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Portugal or Portugal Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Portugal expert.

6 - Praia da Figueira, the secret Algarve beach

You have to walk to Praia da Figueira. But it's worth the effort. Start at Figueira village. Follow a rough track through some ruins. Then continue on to Praia da Figueira. You can't drive to the beach, so it's often deserted. The walk takes about 25 minutes. And the countryside's lovely.

7 - Comporta, Alentejo - the beach for endless sands

The Alentejo covers almost a third of Portugal. And it's home to one of the country's best beaches.

Comporta sits in remote northern Alentejo.

West of historical Alcácer do Sal.

Beach is known for endless deserted sands.

Seafront restaurants popular with savvy Lisboetas.

Where to stay in Alcácer do Sal

Book Pousada Castelo de Alcacer do Sal, just outside Alcácer do Sal.

What to do in Comporta

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Visit Melides for horseback riding on the coast and wine tasting. Only a 30 minute drive from Comporta.

8 - Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Amado, Algarve

Algarve beaches are some of Europe's finest. Find two sandy stars in a remote part of the region.

Where to stay in Carrapateira

Stay at Monte da Vilarinha in Vicentine Coast Natural Park.

Private apartments with kitchens.

Double rooms.

Splendid views of the valley.

Outdoor swimming pool.

What to do near Carrapateira

Want to see more stunning beaches? Take a cruise along the Algarve's golden coast from Lagos.

Travel advice for Portugal

Find even more inspiration for Portugal here

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For many, the best beaches in Portugal are in the Algarve. But the country's coast stretches for 1,700km. And beautiful beaches exist in less touristy areas. Here's our pick of 10 top beaches in the Algarve and beyond. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Portugal, your essential guide for visiting Portugal.

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Learn about the famous Portuguese tiles that create beautiful mosaic artwork.

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Museu Nacional do Azulejo is one of the most important of the national museums by the singularity of its collection, Azulejo (tile), an artistic expression that differentiates Portuguese culture, and by the uniqueness of the building in which the Museum is set, former Madre de Deus Convent, founded in 1509 by Queen D. Leonor. Its collections allow a journey through the history of tile, from 15th century till present days. Belonging to the convent, the Madre de Deus church is decorated in full Portuguese baroque splendour, with gilded and carved wood, paintings and tile panels.

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Museu Nacional do Azulejo is one of the most important of the national museums by the singularity of its collection, Azulejo (tile), an artistic expression that differentiates Portuguese culture, and by the uniqueness of the building in which the Museum is set, former Madre de Deus Convent, founded in 1509 by Queen D.

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The Belém Tower, created in 1514 under the reign of King João II, was meant to guard Lisbon from invading ships.

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The Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Lisbon's most striking monuments and the icon of a country historically moulded by its proximity to the ocean and its maritime discoveries of new worlds.

Discoveries by Portuguese navigators transformed Lisbon into the world's main trade hub in the 15th and 16th centuries.

To protect the city, King João II conceived a pioneer project to defend Lisbon from enemy ships, a work completed in 1514 and which included the building of the Belém Tower, designed by architect Francisco de Arruda.

The tower's unique design includes a modern and heavily armed bastion, protruding over the river.

King Manuel I clearly wished the Belém Tower to stand as a lasting symbol of his powerful reign by depicting the royal coat of arms, the armillary sphere and the cross of the Order of Christ.

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The Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Lisbon's most striking monuments and the icon of a country historically moulded by its proximity to the ocean and its maritime discoveries of new worlds. Discoveries by Portuguese navigators transformed Lisbon into the world's main trade hub in the 15th and 16th centuries.