Portugal: What To Do & What To See

10 July 2019

Tourists who are bored with the crowds in Spain should look to the smaller, less touristy Portugal to the west. With endless sandy beaches, warm weather, and friendly locals, it's a wonderful destination for a sunny summer holiday, or to enjoy culture and history in the cooler months. There's so much to do and see, it's hard to fit it all in, which is why you might find yourself going back again and again. Here are just a few things to fit in on your first trip.

 

Tourists who are bored with the crowds in Spain should look to the smaller, less touristy Portugal to the west. With endless sandy beaches, warm weather, and friendly locals, it's a wonderful destination for a sunny summer holiday, or to enjoy culture and history in the cooler months. There's so much to do and see, it's hard to fit it all in, which is why you might find yourself going back again and again. Here are just a few things to fit in on your first trip.

 

Historical sites

 

Like many European countries, Portugal has a rich history of monarchs and wars, which means there are many breathtaking historical sites to see. Take a tour to fit it all in, or visit independently and have more time to explore. Sites you should see include:

 

  • Jerónimos Monastery
  • Belém Tower
  • Biblioteca Joanina
  • Clérigos Church

 

Architecture

 

Some of Portugal's most iconic sites were created during the 16th and 17th centuries. There's lots of intricate baroque architecture that makes for great photos, and many of the cities have lots of fascinating architecture.

 

Food

 

Portugal has a huge number of restaurants, and you'll often see locals sitting out on the terraces enjoying the balmy evenings. It's no wonder that Portugal is becoming a popular destination for travellers, as they know they can enjoy international cuisine, with cheaper prices than much of Europe. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes such as Bacalhau – a type of salted cod, caldo verde – a soup with chorizo and kale, freshly caught lobsters, and hearty Portuguese stews.

 

Enjoy the outdoors

 

The beaches are a major attraction in Portugal. Less crowded than many resorts in Spain, there are lots of sandy beaches with warm, clear seas for swimming. The southern area of Algarve has long been associated with tourists, and from the 1960s until the present day tourists have flocked to enjoy the miles of beaches.

 

National Parks also cover large inland areas, with lagoons, walking trails, and pretty campsites. There are lots of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Why not try a fitness bootcamp, or find out what hiking trails are available in the area? This will help you enjoy the spectacular views that Portugal offers while also getting in shape.

 

Explore the city

 

Portugal isn't just about beach resorts. The capital city of Lisbon has a huge amount of culture and art, and it's on par with London or Paris in many respects. With red tile roofs and white buildings, it keeps a Mediterranean look, and down the winding, cobbled streets you'll see many spectacular sights.

 

Portugal is an often overlooked destination, with tourists often flocking to nearby Spain and France. However, it has the advantage of many areas being untouched by tourism, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience. Whether you like lazing on the beach with a cocktail, or prefer walking round a city and seeing historic sites that have been perfectly preserved, you'll find something you love in Portugal.