10 Top Tourist Attractions In Portugal

Portugal is a small country that faces the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula. It is one of the most visited countries in Europe due to its beautiful coastline and historical heritage. The smaller size makes it easier to get around and see more places than say neighboring Spain in the same amount of time.

Its temperate climate makes it a year-round holiday destination, where travelers can see Roman and Moorish ruins in Portugal, among others.

10. Alcobaca Monastery

The Alcobaça Monastery is a Roman Catholic monastery in the town of Alcobaça, in central Portugal. It was founded in 1153 by the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques, and maintained a close relationship with the kings of Portugal throughout its history.

The church and convent were the first Gothic buildings in Portugal and together with the Monastery of Santa Cruz in Coimbra, it is one of the most important medieval monasteries in Portugal.

9. University of Coimbra

The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest continuous universities in Europe, founded in 1290. It is also one of the largest universities in Portugal, with approximately 20,000 students. There are many interesting sections within the university complex.

Built-in the early 18th century at the instigation of King Joao V, the Biblioteca Joanina library is a fine example of Baroque architecture. Doctorates are awarded in the Sala dos Capelos, the original throne room.

8. Capela dos Ossos

The Capela dos Ossos looks like it's straight out of a Halloween movie, but in reality, it was a simple solution by 16th-century monks for what to do about too many cemeteries taking up space in Evora.

They took the human remains to a special chapel known as Bone Chapel where the bones adorn the interior of the chapel. The chapel is part of the Gothic Saint Francis Church. An estimated 5,000 skeletons, including skulls, adorn the chapel's walls and ceiling.

7. Cabo Girao

Cabo Girão is located on the south coast of Madeira, in the Portuguese archipelago of the same name. At 570 meters (1,870 feet), the cliff is often referred to as the highest sea cliff in Europe, but at least three European cliffs are higher.

The view over the almost escarpment to the ocean is nevertheless exciting. In 2012, a glass-floored platform was installed for an even scarier viewing experience.

6. Sao Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle is one of the main tourist attractions in Lisbon, as it can be seen from all over the city. It dates back to Roman times, although the Moors rebuilt the fortifications in the 10th century. The castle was liberated from Moorish rule in 1147 during the siege of Lisbon during the Second Crusade.

Later it served as the residence of King Alfonso III. The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Today there are walls and 18 towers that visitors can climb.

5. Obidos Castle

Obidos Castle is an impressive structure on a hill near Obidos, a small town dating back to Roman times on the Atlantic coast of Portugal. The Moors built the castle sometime in the eighth century.

It was rebuilt around the 14th century and a keep was added. The castle now houses a luxury pousada hotel. A traditional medieval market takes place in the castle every July.

4. Cais da Ribeira

Cais da Ribeira is a charming, picturesque neighborhood in Porto, often referred to as 'the soul of Porto'. It consists of medieval streets ending in a square on the Douro River. Medieval buildings are filled with bars, cafes, and restaurants, making Ribeira a popular place to eat and drink.

Ribeira is especially popular on holidays when the townspeople flock to see fireworks. In the center of the square is a bronze cube. Nearby is the house where Prince Henry the Navigator was born in 1394.

3. Praia de Marinha

Praia da Marinha is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. Located in the Atlantic coast region of the Algarve, the beach is flanked by beautiful blue waters on one side and sandy beaches and high cliffs on the landward side.

Also known as Navy Beach, it is a small cove that is widely used as an image in travel brochures. The clear water of the beach makes it a good place for snorkeling. This picturesque beach is about a 30-minute drive from Albuferia; there is free parking.

2. Belem Tower

The Tower of Belem, also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, is located on what was once an island in the Tagus River in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Dating back to 1515, the imposing tower was built to defend Lisbon against invaders and to welcome the city's friends.

Built-in the Age of Discovery, the four-story limestone tower had a bastion connected to it; the bastion had space for 17 guns that could fire long-range shots. A statue of Our Lady of Safe Homecoming, designed to protect sailors on their travels, faces the river.

1. Pena National Palace

The Pena National Palace seems like a fairytale castle as it stands above the clouds on cloudy days. But atop a hill in Sentra, it can be seen from Lisbon on a clear day.

Created by King Ferdinand II, it is an impressive example of 19th-century Romanticism not only in Portugal but in the world as it combines Moorish and Manu line architectural styles. It started as a chapel for Our Lady of Pena during the Middle Ages and today is used for state functions.

Conclusion

Portugal is a beautiful and welcoming country that has many tourist attractions that are worth visiting, such as the famous Sagres Beach, The Dona Ana Monastery, and numerous other great places. Visit Portugal now in order to make your holiday even better.

For anyone who loves Portugal, no list of the top 10 things to do in Portugal would be complete without a visit to Lisbon. The capital has many attractions, from the famous Baixa district with its winding narrow streets and the Majestic Café to the imposing Alfama district. Lisbon also has an abundance of interesting museums and walks through beautiful parks.

Furthermore, if you have any concerns about the 10 Top Tourist Attractions in Portugal, contact the experts at the top facts today!