Attractions in Portugal

Situated on the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula and at the very edge of Europe, Portugal is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. A country of a very small area and a very small population, Portugal is full of wonderful sights and amazing local colour.

These are just some of the many Portuguese places of interest that, if not visited, would lead to a complete ignorance of the country.

Obidos Castle

Obidos is one of Portugal’s most colourful medieval castles. It was built in the 13th century by King Afonso on lands reconquered from Muslims. The structure is wonderfully preserved. It attracts visitors with its unique medieval colour and the beauty of the surrounding area.

Torri de Belém Tower

Built in 1521, this tower is a monument to the Age of Discovery. It was built in honour of Vasco da Gama and his famous voyage, which marked the start of the Indian Ocean route.

In 1983 the tower was entered on the list of the most valuable cultural-historical heritage of UNESCO.

Pena Palace

A beautiful palace, built at the behest of King Fernando II in Sintra in 1838. Built on the ruins of a medieval monastery, it was for a long time the residence of the royal family. It is now one of Portugal’s most beautiful places of interest.

Lisbon Oceanarium

The Aquarium of Lisbon is one of the largest in the world and has a bumper collection of fish and marine mammals exhibiting some 500 species from all latitudes of the planet.

The Alto-Doro

The River Douro Valley is not only the area where Porto’s world-famous wine has been made, using almost 2,000 years of unchanged technology. It is also a beautiful natural monument. The Douro upstream area is a unique landscape and one whose beauty is a must.

Santa Maria de Alcobaça Abbey

This monastic abbey dates back to the 12th century and is the largest religious building in Portugal. The abbey is made up of 5 monasteries. Another attraction for the Portuguese is the tomb where generations of royalty are buried.

Peneda Jeres National Park

This national park is a natural monument of outstanding beauty in the north western part of the country. The area is not only a striking landscape, but also home to many rare animal and plant species. The national park is also home to a very interesting historical monument: the remains of an ancient Roman road and the ruins of ancient Roman structures along the sides of the road.