Lisbon, Capital of Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of the most fascinating and dazzling cities in Europe. One of the main reasons that tourists visit this city is for the tram journey. There are a number of trams that run throughout the city. But the major attraction is the number 28 Lisbon yellow tram that goes through the popular tourist districts such as Alfama, Baixa, Estrela and Graca. Get on this historic tram to explore the city easily and authentically and most importantly, without expending much money.

The Belém Tower is among Lisbon’s most popular attractions. It is a medieval fortress, which was built to defend or protect the city, offering great estuary views. The Jerónimos Monastery or Hieronymites Monastery is another most-visited site in Lisbon. This Gothic Manueline-style monastery has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. Once you are done with these historical buildings, go on to explore Lisbon’s diverse neighbourhoods especially, the Village Underground Lisboa, a co-working space and exceptional platform for creativity and culture.

Lisbon is a great nighttime destination with some of the best nightclubs and bars in the whole of Europe including the LuxFrágil. Complete your Lisbon trip by trying Piri-Piri chicken at Restaurante Bonjardim and the homemade soup and fresh chorizo bread at A Merendeira.

Sintra, Lisbon

Sintra is a charming Portuguese town near the Lisbon region of Portugal. It is renowned for its rocking mountains, green forests, glamorous palaces, eye-catching natural parks and gardens. If you are into hiking, the town is for you with some lovely hiking trails including Santa Maria Trail, Lapa Trail and Seteais Trail. You can hike or just rent a rickshaw to explore the notable sites of the town including the Sintra National Palace, a Moorish castle with twin chimneys and sophisticated tile-work and the National Palace of Pena, a 19th-century Romanticist hilltop palace surrounded by a wonderful park and the Montserrat Palace, one of the most impressive architectural mansions of the town.

Azores

The Azores Islands are a group of nine fascinating islands off the coast of Portugal. From volcanoes, whale and dolphin watching to inspecting nature, hiking and surfing, these islands have plenty to offer. Like most places in Portugal, the Azores will not cost you a big amount of money. Everything is cheap and affordable here. The volcanic islands of the Azores offer beautiful hiking trails; so, hiking is recommended through the magnificent, lush green landscapes of these islands especially, Sao Miguel, Sao Jorge and Pico islands for breathtaking views.

Cascais

On the west of Lisbon, Cascais is a charming coastal town in Portugal. It is recognised as “the Town of Kings and Fishes” because of the fact that originally, it was a fishing town and the summer hide-out of the members of the Portuguese nobility. Today the town is a fine coalition of exquisite 19th-century architectures and modern amenities. During your stay in the town, never forget to explore Boca do Inferno, the scenic oceanfront cliffs featuring a natural archway and an open cave. Stop by the Restaurante Melody for some tasty, genuine traditional Portuguese dishes.

Lagos, City in Portugal

Lagos is a bustling coastal town in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is a fine holiday destination with 14th-century walls, climactic cliffs, attractive churches and wonderful beaches. If you are unsure about where to have your meal, consider Beats & Burritos for delicious foods including salsa and quinoa pots.

The town of Lagos is full of scenic spots. Along the coastline of the town, the Ponta da Piedade are a set of stunning sandstone cliffs or rock formations, which are one of the most popular tourist attractions. From there, you can enjoy the sunset while having an ice-cold beer. For an enjoyable day on a beach, you have a few scenic beaches to choose from including Praia Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo and Meia Praia.

Porto

The coastal city of Porto is a famous port-wine producing city in northwest Portugal. It has been an underrated tourist destination despite having all the charms like other Portuguese cities. The city is quite similar to that of Lisbon except for the fact that it is less crowded. So, if you are looking for a quiet place to spend your holiday, Porto is for you. Travel through the beautiful narrow cobbled streets of the medieval Ribeira district and unwind yourself at the well-favoured cafes and bars. Pay a visit to the Baroque Clérigos Church with a tall bell tower which is considered to be a symbol of Porto. The historic Bolsa Palace, another notable highlight of the city, is also worth a visit. Last but not least, Luís I Bridge, the iconic double-deck metal arch bridge crossing the Douro, should not be missed out.

Tomar

Full of artistic, historic and cultural treasures, Tomar is a city of great beauty in central Portugal. Pay a visit to the marvellous Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most favourite attraction of the town. The city owns an exceptional matchbox museum, Museu dos Fósforos, which features the largest collection of matchboxes in Europe. If you are not impressed by this matchbox museum, you can go and see the Castle of Almourol, a hilltop medieval castle that stands interestingly close to shore and offers a great sunset view.

Sagres

Sagres is a beautiful small town in the southern Algarve of Portugal. With dramatic cliffs, crashing waves and amazing views, it is the ideal place for nature lovers, surfers and hikers. Stop by the town’s most popular site Fortaleza de Sagres, the 15th-century sea fort on a rocky outcrop with a fortified wall and three natural cliffs. Just a drive away from Sagres is the Cape of St. Vincent Lighthouse, the majestic lighthouse which is known to be the second-most powerful lighthouse in Europe. The best place to try some real Portuguese food including cataplanas and Arroz de Polvo is undoubtedly A Casínha, a traditional restaurant in Sagres.

Surfing is one of the main reasons for which tourists prefer this town. It is blessed with many beaches suitable for surfing including the Praia da Mareta, the largest among the beaches of
Sagres. The town also offers challenging hiking trails for people who are into hiking.

Ericeira

Ericeira is a pleasant seaside town along the shoreline of excellent surfing beaches in Portugal. Water sports practitioners visit this town from all over the world for its incredible waves which make surfing the dominant sport. There are some outstanding surfing schools around the town to provide support to both beginners and experts in the field of surfing. While not surfing, you can sunbathe and enjoy the scenic views sitting on the dry, sandy beaches. If surfing makes you tired and thirsty, you can always refresh yourself at Adega Bar, a traditional pub ideal for an afternoon chill session with live songs.

Faro

With a number of tempting tourist attractions, Faro is a historically and culturally rich city in the Algarve region of Portugal. The city is full of islands that are accessible via ferries. If you want to escape the crowds and spend some quality time in a peaceful environment, head to Barreta Island or Ilha Deserta. Also try to visit the fabulous 6km-long inhabited Culatra Island which features some beautiful beaches, a lighthouse and a lagoon. Faro offers loads of affordable eating and drinking options. If you are in search of a budget-friendly meal, hit the “Tasty!” and don’t forget to try some popular chicken wings that it serves.

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