This Portuguese Eden brings together a great diversity of landscapes and heritage displayed between the lush Sierra de Sintra and a rugged Atlantic coast.
As soon as the traveler enters the Sintra-Cascáis Natural Park, he is immediately ecstatic. It is inevitable that emotion and melancholy surface before the ingredients of its potion: incalculable architectural treasures, large doses of exotic green and wild blue. All this in perfect harmony and combined with a special light that conquers at any time of the year.
Located approximately 30 minutes from Lisbon, this Portuguese orchard ranges from the Sierra de Sintra to the Atlantic coast, where it takes over beaches of dunes and dizzying cliffs high over a hundred meters above sea level.
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WORLD HERITAGE SITE SINCE 1995
Culture and history beat with special force in Sintra, heart of the park and first European place to be considered, in 1995, Cultural Landscape by UNESCO. A fairytale town coloured by stately houses and palaces surrounded by fantasy gardens, each more spectacular. The romantic aesthetic glides between winding paths, waterfalls, passages, caves and countless unimaginable corners surrounded by lush vegetation.
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ROADS AND ‘QUEIJADAS’
Getting lost among cobblestone slopes is discovering the essence of Sintra and also its sweetest flavors, those of the transvestites and the queijadas that are baked in the numerous pastry shops of the city. Outside the historic quarter, a labyrinth of winding roads lead between the palaces dotted by its hills, which, a little further down, end up merging with the ocean.
VISTA AÉREA DEL PALACION NACIONAL. FOTO: GETTY IMAGES3 / 15
ESCENARIO DE PALACIOS
The microclimate of the Natural Park of Sintra-Cascáis is ideal for the proliferation of all those plant species that fill it and, in addition, is responsible for the area was chosen by kings and aristocrats throughout history to build their palaces, Stately homes and gardens with magnificent ocean views.
In the historic quarter of Sintra, the National Palace, combining Gothic, Mudejar and Manueline styles, is the most sober of all and also the oldest. It was inhabited for almost eight centuries, mainly during the Middle Ages, a period in which it was used by the Portuguese monarchy and its court to escape the plague or as a holiday retreat. In its whitewashed facade stand out two huge conical fireplaces of 33 meters high. They are those of the kitchen, which were built by King John I to serve the entire palace. Inside, the Coat of Arms Room and the Cinema Room, with the painted ceiling of these birds, are the most outstanding spaces.
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QUINTA DA REGALEIRA: A WELL AND MUCH MORE
This particular tale continues in the illusory gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, four hectares full of secrets hidden among fountains, caves, stone tunnels, waterfalls and passageways that hide meanings related to mythology, cosmology and masonry. The most special secret is a 27-metre-deep well that runs through a spiral staircase to its depths, communicating with a system of tunnels. As if it were a mysterious inverted tower, it was devised by Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, the first owner of this palace.
In the highest part of the hills, built on a huge rock that had previously been a monastery, is the Pena Palace, the main icon of the park. The colors of its anarchic towers and the extensive gardens that surround it give meaning to this story of wild nature thanks to plant species from all over the world that get lost in viewpoints like the High Cross or discover jewels like the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, a house ordered to be built in 1864 by King Ferdinand II and his second wife, Elise Hensler, following the style of European alpine chalets.
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THE THOUSAND AND ONE ‘SORROWS’
In the Pena Palace the visitor will be immersed in The Thousand and One Nights, especially when the mist of the mountains covers it giving it a more enigmatic halo if possible and erasing at times the panoramic views of the valley and the ocean that it enjoys. Its construction was the greatest example of Portuguese romanticism in the 19th century. Access is not possible by private vehicle, so to get there you will have to do it on foot, by bus or taxi from the center of Sintra.
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THE UNKNOWN MONSERRATE
Four kilometres from the centre of Sintra, the Monterrate Palace is another ode to romantic architecture. Poetry full of symmetries that move towards exotic gardens, the richest in international botany of the country. This visit is usually less crowded, proclaiming itself as a true haven of peace within the oasis that is already Sintra. The place was a mandatory stop for English travellers, conquering Lord Byron himself in 1809 or silencing the merchant and art collector Sir Francis Cook to the point of making it his summer residence.
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A CASTLE IN THE HILL
Another building that dominates the perspectives of the park and the sea merging is the Castle of the Moors, a fortress that zigzags on top of one of the mountains of Sintra and was built during the Arab rule, between the 8th and 9th centuries.
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THE OTHER SECRETS OF SINTRA
Bordered by the Sierra de Sintra, the park protects other more unknown and solitary wonders such as the Sanctuary of Peninha, the Blue Lake, from which part a long network of trails, or the Convent of the Capuchs. The latter, inaugurated in 1560 and surrounded by primitive forest, stands out for its austerity as opposed to the luxurious buildings of the hills, thus representing the ideal of the Order of Saint Francis of Assisi. Entrances camouflaged among rocks are opening unexpected towards cork cells that fill with sobriety the most mystical chapters of the park made count.
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THE WESTERNMOST POINT IN EUROPE
At 18 kilometers from Sintra the mountains converge on cliffs up to 140 meters high before those who break furious waves. They are those of the windy Cabo de Roca, responsible for guarding the last sunset of the European continent before being lit by one of the oldest lighthouses in Portugal. Very close to the tower of light, with white tiles and red roof, the geographical coordinates of the place are engraved next to the words of the Portuguese poet Luís Vaz de Camões “Aqui… onde a terra se acaba e mar começa”. Words that push you to get a certificate that guarantees that you have visited the westernmost point of continental Europe. Just five minutes by car it is possible to continue enjoying the views of the coast in Moinho Dom Quixote, a café where the decoration plays with the illusion between colorful pictures, plants and lamps of different design.
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UN PUEBLO, UN ACANTILADO Y UNA PISCINA NATURAL A VILLAGE, A CLIFT AND A NATURAL POOL
Besides Sintra, in the park there are other villages that deserve a stop. Colares, on the slopes of the Sintra mountain range, surrounded by vineyards from which comes the popular wine of Colares. Azenhas do Mar, a small white village carved on the cliff. At its feet, a natural pool delights the holidaymakers next to a restaurant and a bar bohemian style.
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THE ESSENTIALS OF CASCAIS
In Cascáis, a tour of the old town, with the medieval fortress of Nuestra Señora de la Luz and the citadel, will be a good start to end up becoming absorbed with the Boca del Infierno, on the outskirts of the city, where a polished arch on the steep rock allows you to enjoy the Atlantic penetrating through it.
PRAIA DO GUINCHO. FOTO: ISTOCK13 / 15
WILD BEACHES
The best way to explore the rugged coastline, and stop at its wild beaches, is to do so through the bike path provided next to it. The kites take flight while some surfers jump in to overcome their energetic waves: Guincho Beach, the most extensive and popular beach located next to a sophisticated beach bar; Maças beach with fine sand; Ursa beach, known for its rock in the sea shaped like a bear that discovers small pools at low tide or Adraga beach, close to which there is a huge and deep natural well that communicates with the sea. Another of the busiest beaches during the Portuguese summers is Playa Grande, famous for having a total of 66 dinosaur tracks that are approximately 110 million years old.nto al mar, jugar al golf en uno de los mejores campos de Portugal con 18 hoyos y vistas al Atlántico, practicar surf o paddle surf, montar a caballo e incluso subirse a un helicóptero para capturar las mejores imágenes aéreas de Sintra.
e Algarve is justly famed for its beaches and reliably good weather (300 sunny days per year!). And while visitors can’t be faulted for wanting to bask on captivating shorelines, there’s much more to Portugal’s southernmost region than sun and sand.
Cobblestone village centers, Roman ruins and nature reserves packed with unique plant and animal life are among the Algarve’s many attractions. Beyond the beach, you can walk clifftop trails, wander through medieval castles or get off the beaten track in tiny mountain hamlets in the interior. Of course, there’s plenty to do on and off the water, from kayaking amid dramatic coastal formations to wreck-diving across artificial reefs. Here are a few different itineraries to help you make the most of your trip to the Algarve.
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Essential Algarve on a 3-day getaway
The Algarve’s relatively small size means you can pack a lot into a condensed trip. On a long weekend, you can bask on some of the Algarve’s prettiest beaches, see hidden grottoes on a boat trip and dine at some outstanding traditional restaurants.
Day 1: Explore Faro’s old center, then spend the day on an island
Make the most of your time by flying into Faro, which has direct flights to the UK, Ireland, Germany and France, plus frequent daily connections to Lisbon. On day one, take a morning stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, stopping for a peek inside the city’s grand cathedral. Nearby, you can have a coffee on the terrace of O Castelo overlooking the waterfront. Later that day, catch a ferry out to Ilha da Barreta, a sand-covered island just off the coast. Book ahead for a meal at environmentally friendly Estaminé, the best (and only!) restaurant on the island.
Day 2: Go beach-hopping west of Faro
You can make the drive from Faro to Lagos in about an hour, but it’s well worth stretching out the journey for a leisurely day of visiting the beaches and seaside communities along the way. West of Albufeira, you can take the steps down to Praia da Marinha, a lovely stretch of sand backed by dramatic cliffs. Further west, find the tunnel leading you down to Praia do Carvalho, a scenic cove once used by smugglers. Arrive in Lagos before sundown and have dinner at A Forja, a traditional tavern serving up deliciously authentic fare.
Day 3: Get out on the water in Lagos
Rise early for a boating and dolphin-watching excursion with outfitters like Bom Dia. They’ll take you out to grottoes and coastal rock formations accessible only by sea. Afterward, enjoy a bit of downtime at one of the small, secluded beaches near Lagos such as Praia da Balança. On your last evening, celebrate the trip over drinks on the rooftop of Bon Vivant, which serves up some of the best cocktails in the Algarve.
Land and sea adventures on a 5-day trip
The Algarve’s sun-kissed beaches make a fine backdrop to a wide array of outdoor activities. With five days to spare, you can undertake some lovely coastal walks, go kayaking or surfing, and sneak in a bit of wildlife watching.
Day 1: Ride the waves off Carrapateira
The northern coast of the Algarve just above Sagres has some of Portugal’s best waves. Located on the headlands overlooking the beach, the small community of Carrapateira makes a great base for visiting the region. Spend the day playing in the water – you can hire boards, take lessons or even bunk for the night at Amado, one of several recommended surf camps in the area.
Day 2: Go from summit to sea on a mountain bike ride near Praia da Luz
Around 25km (15.5mi) southeast of Carrapateira, you’ll find the small seaside community of Praia da Luz. Here you can connect with Mountain Bike Adventure, which leads various excursions in the rugged terrain nearby. You can ride the gravel paths on the cliffs above the crashing waves, race along a single track through the Barao Valleys or make the 40km (25mi) summit-to-sea descent going from highland terrain to the edge of the Atlantic. For DIY adventures, you can hire high-performance bicycles at Bica Bikes next door.
Day 3: Paddle your way through grottoes near Lagos
Just east of Praia da Luz, Lagos is the epicenter for all manner of first-rate aquatic activities, including kayaking. You can head off on a memorable half-day paddling trip with Kayak Adventures, which will take you to remote beaches, grottoes and striking rock formations along the coast. The easy-going trip begins and ends at Batata Beach, a short stroll from the old center of Lagos. Afterward, enjoy some downtime (or more action in the water) at nearby Meia Praia, a long sandy beachfront reachable on foot or by small ferry from Lagos.
Day 4: Walk the sea cliff trail near Carvoeiro
Take a break from the water on your fourth day, with a scenic walk along the Seven Hanging Valleys. This 6km (3.7mi) one-way trail follows the shoreline, sometimes taking you up to cliffs with lofty viewpoints, and at other times leading you right down to the water’s edge. Begin the trail at Praia do Vale de Centeanes, located about 35km (22mi) east of Lagos. At the end of the walk, you can enjoy a refreshing swim off Praia da Marinha, ranked one of Portugal’s prettiest beaches.
Day 5: Immerse yourself in undersea wonders on a diving trip off Albufeira
The Algarve is home to some of Europe’s best diving with a range of destinations, from shallow water (5m/16ft) for novices to deeper sites (40m/131ft) for those with more experience. Highlights include natural reefs, wall dives, wrecks, and artificial reefs, including the marine sanctuary of Ocean Revival Park. While you’ll find operators all along the coast, Easy Divers earns high marks for its well-run dives, and you can also take certification courses or book a snorkeling trip if you prefer not to plunge into the deep end. You’ll find them and Indigo Divers – another recommended outfitter – in Albufeira, around 60km (37mi) east of Lagos.
Nature, history and culture on a 7-day journey across the Algarve
On a longer trip, you can get a deeper appreciation of the Algarve’s many unique facets, from cinematic clifftops high above the crashing waves to hidden historical treasures dating back to the ancient Romans.
Day 1: Look for wildlife in the Algarve’s west coast nature reserve
The best way to approach the area is to hire a car from Lisbon and make the drive down the coast. Less than three hours after departing the Portuguese capital, you’ll arrive at the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, a nature reserve that protects the west coast of the Alentejo and the Algarve. Here you can connect to Portugal’s wild side on coastal walks like the 11km (6.8mi) loop hike of Pontal do Carrapateira. Keep an eye out for otters, foxes and some 200 bird species, including Portugal’s last remaining osprey population. Access the hike and some photogenic beaches in the village of Carrapateira. The Casa Bamboo makes an ideal overnight base for exploring.
Day 2: Peer off the edge of the world at Cabo de São Vicente
Keep motoring southwest and you’ll run out of road at Cabo de São Vicente. There’s a barren, end-of-the-world feel amid the cliff-top views from Europe’s southwesternmost point. The nearby village of Sagres is equally fascinating. You can explore Portuguese history at the Fortaleza de Sagres, a 15th-century fortress atop a rocky promontory, where according to legend, Prince Henry the Navigator headquartered his maritime academy. Afterward, stop in Three Little Birds for creative cooking and craft beers.
Day 3: See a little-visited town going strong for over 2000 years
From Sagres, drive 55km (34mi) east to reach Portimão, which has been a commercial center since well before the Romans arrived. You can learn about Portugal’s fishing industry at the Museu de Portimão, a former cannery transformed into an interactive museum. You can also take boat trips up the Rio Arade or down the coast (keep an eye out for dolphins). Though Portimão lacks ocean views, you can enjoy some beach time at nearby Praia da Rocha, a wide swath of seafront backed by ochre-red cliffs.
Day 4: Enjoy the lofty views from the mountain village of Monchique
Algarve’s coastline gets all the attention, but there’s a fascinating world just inland. From Portimão, head 25km (15.5mi) straight north to Monchique. Surrounded by forested slopes, this tiny mountain hamlet with its quaint guesthouses and rustic taverns makes a stark contrast to the Algarve’s sunbaked resort towns. You can take some rugged walks, including a 10km (6.2mi) circuit through the hills above town. After all that exertion, go for a soak in the hot springs of Caldas de Monchique.
Day 5: Drive the back lanes of the Serra do Caldeirão
Continue your tour of the hinterlands, with a scenic drive through the Serra do Caldeirão, a region of hills, cork trees and undulating forests. Stop in the picturesque village of Alte for a stroll past fountains and cafes dotting the cobblestone lanes. On hot days, join locals at their favorite swimming hole, a pond beneath the Queda do Vigário waterfall on the edge of town. Before heading back to the coast, visit Silves, which is home to the best-preserved castle in the Algarve. Unique lodging options make for a memorable overnight. Get your fill of the countryside at the organic farm and guesthouse Quinta da Figuerinha. You can also eat well at wine-loving spots like O Barradas.
Day 6: Look for rare birds and Roman mosaics near Faro
Whether you come down from Alte or Silves, it’s less than an hour’s drive back to Faro near the coast. Head out early for a trip through the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a swath of protected wetlands and a vital habitat for white storks, rare purple gallinules and numerous other bird species. Eco-minded Formosamar runs some of the best boat trips. In the afternoon, take in the impressive Roman ruins at Milreu, a sprawling 1st century CE villa located 10km (6.2mi) north of town.
Day 7: Explore the Algarve’s most photogenic streetscapes in Tavira
A further 40km (25mi) east along the coast and you’ll reach riverside Tavira, one of the Algarve’s loveliest towns. Take in the historic architecture around the old quarter and the views from the ruined castle above the town, then treat yourself to a meal of Algarvian classics (like the chargrilled octopus) at Ti Maria. If time allows, squeeze in a trip out to Ilha de Tavira, a sandy island reached by ferry from Quatro Águas, just outside of Tavira.
Portugal is a gorgeous country to explore and much more than cork products, gorgeous sea and yummy port that it has become famous for. It’s one country that just seems to draw me back time and time again with shed loads of historic cities, gorgeous National Parks and enough bacalhau to satisfy even the hungriest of tummies!
One of the things I love most about Portugal is how unique each of the places feels. You can literally travel 30 minutes up the road and feel like you’re in a totally different country – it really is very special.
1.) Wander around Braga
A city perched pretty close to Porto and Amarante, it’s the perfect place to see some of Portugal’s most impressive buildings and history. Make sure you visit the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte… ohh, and take a bottle of water – the many steps will make even the best Olympian out of breath! 🤣
2.) Explore the town of Amarante
Not too far from Porto in the north of the country, Amarante is a great place to explore some of the histories of this beautiful region. Look out for the gorgeous arched bridge of Ponte São Gonçalo and wander the riverside route where there are lots of independent restaurants and cafes that line the route. You won’t be able to resist the sweet treats!
3.) Porto
Porto is one of the country’s largest cities that sits in the north of the country. This hilly is one heck of a place to visit, think cobbled streets, and fresh seafood. Make sure you haul yourself up to Torre dos Clérigos and discover the Ribeira area of the city.
4.) Visit the Medieval village time forgot, Sortelha
Sortelha is a tiny village that is dominated by one of its most imposing residence, the castle that overlooks the region! Make sure to wander the castle grounds, though you’ll need comfy walking shoes for this ramble.
The whole village feels like you’ve been thrown back into Medieval times. A town that time forgot!
5.) See the village built around a rock
Monsanto, a small village close the border with Spain, is one of the most unique towns you’ll ever come across. With less than a 1,000 residents, it’s a rural and quaint little place that has to be seen to be believed. Head over to Adega Tipica O Cruzeiro for a tasty bite to eat and some incredible views across the region.
Want to visit more villages like this? Check out our full list, here
6.) See the beauty of Sintra
It’s hard not to fall head-over-heels in love with Sintra. Perched within the Sintra Mountains, this region has some of the prettiest castles in all of Europe (shhhh, don’t tell the others). Around 30 minutes from the center of Lisbon, it’s pretty easy to visit for a day trip (or two).
Make sure to visit; Pena Palace, Monserrate Palace, Castle of the Moors and the Palace of Sintra. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are just too beautiful to miss.
7.) Discover the beauty of Cascais
This historic fishing town, just down the coast from the city of Lisbon, is the perfect place to chill out, explore the quaint town and explore the dramatic Atlantic coast. Make sure to visit some of these top sites that you shouldn’t miss. You’ll love your time, here!
Read our full post on what to see, do and eat in Cascais, right here
8.) See the waterfalls of the Azores
The Azores is a volcanic archipelago that sits in the mid-Atlantic Ocean. A few hours by flight (and a little longer by boat), it’s one of Europe’s most dramatic sets of islands. Think, beautiful trails, incredible scenery and the most stunning natural landscapes you’ll witness.
Don’t forget to visit the beautiful, Poço da Alagoinha on Flores Island – it’s breathtaking.
9.) Explore the streets of Lisbon
The capital city of Lisbon is an amazing place to visit. If it’s your first time to Portugal, you’re going to love how stunning it is. Made up of various neighborhoods, Lisbon has a whole array of eye-catching places you won’t want to miss. If you’re looking for some of the best views in the city, check out these perfect spots to see, they offer the perfect vistas to enjoy this gorgeous place.
Make sure to visit the Belém Tower, explore Bairro Alto and grab a bite to eat at Kais which is based in an old warehouse in the city. It really is unique. Alternatively, check out one of these other top places to fill your tummy.
10.) Visit the island of Madeira
In between Portugal and the Canary Islands is the relatively small island of Madeira, Make sure to explore the capital city of Funchal, head out into the countryside and soak up the unspoilt landscape that is often overlooked when visiting Portugal.
11.) See the Chapel of Bones in Évora
Évora is one stunning Roman city that’s now been protected with UNESCO World Heritage Status.
Make sure you visit the Roman Temple, Praça do Giraldo and the rather macabre but a must to see, the Chapel of Bones that line every wall. It’s part of the bigger, Igreja de Sao Francisco church complex that’s just too beautiful to miss.
12.) Visit Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina
It may have a pretty long name and one that I still can’t pronounce correctly, but it really is a gorgeous area of Portugal to visit. This natural park is considered to be one of the finest stretches of coastline in Europe. Untouched by development, the whole coastline hasn’t changed for thousands of years – it really is beautiful.
13.) See the dramatic Sagres
Jutting out off the very tip of south-west Portugal, Sagres is one of the most dramatic coastline areas in the region. Make sure you visit the fort, explore the cliff side walking routes and Cape St. Vincent, which is next to Sagres Point.
14.) Walk the cliffs around Lagos
Perched on the southern coast of Portugal, Lagos is a small town in the Algarve region. Make sure to visit Lagos Castle, visit the close by cliffs of Ponta de Piedade and the ornate, Igreja de Santo António. Only a short drive from Sagres and other beautiful places, it’s a great place to stop for a long afternoon and a bite to eat.
15.) Visit the best beaches
There’s no denying that Portugal has some of the best beaches in western Europe. If you’re looking to ride the waves on a board, head across to areas like; Sagres, Ericeira or more on the west Atlantic Coast.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a little dip, relaxing and beautiful sandy bays, head over to places like Benagil in the Algarve. The whole region is famed for its glorious beaches.
The Palace of Pena stands atop a rocky peak, which is the second-highest point in the Sintra hills (the only place higher than the palace itself is the Cruz Alta, 528 meters above sea level). The palace is situated in the eastern part of the Park of Pena, which one has to pass through to reach the steep ramp built by the Baron of Eschwege that provides access to the castle-like building.
The palace itself is composed of two wings: the former Manueline monastery of the Order of St. Jerome and the wing built in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II. These wings are ringed by a third architectural structure that is a fantasised version of an imaginary castle, whose walls one can walk around and which comprises battlements, watchtowers, an entrance tunnel and even a drawbridge.
In 1838, King Ferdinand II acquired the former Hieronymite monastery of Our Lady of Pena, which had been built by King Manuel I in 1511 on the top of the hill above Sintra and had been left unoccupied since 1834 when the religious orders were suppressed in Portugal.
The monastery consisted of the cloister and its outbuildings, the chapel, the sacristy and the bell tower, which today form the northern section of the Palace of Pena, or the Old Palace as it is known.
King Ferdinand began by making repairs to the former monastery, which, according to the historical sources of that time, was in very bad condition. He refurbished the whole of the upper floor, replacing the fourteen cells used by the monks with larger-sized rooms and covering them with the vaulted ceilings that can still be seen today. In roughly 1843, the king decided to enlarge the palace by building a new wing (the New Palace) with even larger rooms (the Great Hall is a good example of this), ending in a circular tower next to the new kitchens. The building work was directed by the Baron of Eschwege.
The 1994 repair works restored the original colours of the Palace’s exterior: pink for the former monastery and ochre for the New Palace.
In transforming a former monastery into a castle-like residence, King Ferdinand showed that he was heavily influenced by German Romanticism, and that he probably found his inspiration in the Stolzenfels and Rheinstein castles on the banks of the Rhine, as well as Babelsberg Palace in Potsdam. This building works at the Palace of Pena ended in the mid-1860s, although further work was also undertaken at later dates for the decoration of the interiors.
King Ferdinand also ordered the Park of Pena to be planted in the Palace’s surrounding areas in the style of the romantic gardens of that time, with winding paths, pavilions and stone benches placed at different points along its routes, as well as trees and other plants originating from the four corners of the earth. In this way, the king took advantage of the mild and damp climate of the Sintra hills to create an entirely new and exotic park with over five hundred different species of trees.
The most fascinating construction in the Park of Pena is the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, also known as the House of Indulgence (Casa do Regalo), which is located at the park’s western end. Its building was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and his future second wife, Elise Hensler (the Countess of Edla), as a private summer residence. It is a two-story building with a very scenic appearance, denoting a distinctive alpine inspiration and maintaining an expressive visual relationship with the Palace.
The Palace of Pena was designated a National Monument in 1910 and forms part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which has been classified by UNESCO as World Heritage since 1995. In 2013, the Palace was integrated into the Network of European Royal Residences.
The monastery consisted of the cloister and its outbuildings, the chapel, the sacristy and the bell tower, which today form the northern section of the Palace of Pena, or the Old Palace as it is known.
King Ferdinand began by making repairs to the former monastery, which, according to the historical sources of that time, was in very bad condition. He refurbished the whole of the upper floor, replacing the fourteen cells used by the monks with larger-sized rooms and covering them with the vaulted ceilings that can still be seen today. In roughly 1843, the king decided to enlarge the palace by building a new wing (the New Palace) with even larger rooms (the Great Hall is a good example of this), ending in a circular tower next to the new kitchens. The building work was directed by the Baron of Eschwege.
The 1994 repair works restored the original colours of the Palace’s exterior: pink for the former monastery and ochre for the New Palace.
In transforming a former monastery into a castle-like residence, King Ferdinand showed that he was heavily influenced by German Romanticism, and that he probably found his inspiration in the Stolzenfels and Rheinstein castles on the banks of the Rhine, as well as Babelsberg Palace in Potsdam. This building works at the Palace of Pena ended in the mid-1860s, although further work was also undertaken at later dates for the decoration of the interiors.
King Ferdinand also ordered the Park of Pena to be planted in the Palace’s surrounding areas in the style of the romantic gardens of that time, with winding paths, pavilions and stone benches placed at different points along its routes, as well as trees and other plants originating from the four corners of the earth. In this way, the king took advantage of the mild and damp climate of the Sintra hills to create an entirely new and exotic park with over five hundred different species of trees.
The most fascinating construction in the Park of Pena is the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, also known as the House of Indulgence (Casa do Regalo), which is located at the park’s western end. Its building was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and his future second wife, Elise Hensler (the Countess of Edla), as a private summer residence. It is a two-story building with a very scenic appearance, denoting a distinctive alpine inspiration and maintaining an expressive visual relationship with the Palace.
The Palace of Pena was designated a National Monument in 1910 and forms part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which has been classified by UNESCO as World Heritage since 1995. In 2013, the Palace was integrated into the Network of European Royal Residences.
Our recommendation is to see as many sides of this beautiful country as possible, by starting at the Algarve and making your way north to Porto. Although one week isn’t enough time to dig deep into the culture or head off the beaten track, it can give ambitious travelers a good first impression of this fantastic country. Hold onto your hats, because it’s going to be an energetic journey!
Days 1 and 2: The Algarve
The two main international airports are in Lisbon and Porto; the third is in Faro, but consider entering the country through one of the first two and then catching a connecting flight to Faro. There are also trains and buses that head into the Algarve, but some travelers may prefer flying to get there more quickly (flights from Lisbon take about 45 minutes).
In the Algarve, the coast is the shining star and the region is lined with stunning beaches that look too beautiful to be true. Lagos, Albufeira, Portimão, and Tavira are a few of the more popular city stops highlighted by spectacular beaches, seaside caves, and multi-toned cliffs. We suggest stopping at Camilo Beach, Benagil Cave, the Beach of Three Brothers (Praia dos Três Irmãos), and the lighthouse at Piedade Point. Renting a car is the easiest way to jump from one site to the next.
Some visitors like to get in the water as soon as possible, while others prefer enjoying the coast from afar. Trekking, surfing, sunbathing, and kayaking are just a few of the popular activities on offer.
Another gem in the Algarve is the Ria Formosa lagoon system and its islands, a natural treasure that is listed as one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders and located around Faro’s coast. In the Ria Formosa, birdwatching is a unique treat and there are more than 200 bird species here.
Do you consider yourself a seafood connoisseur? Portugal’s charming fishing villages are filled with excellent restaurants offering freshly caught fish and seafood on their daily menus. The best seafood dish to try in the Algarve is the mixed seafood cataplana: steam-cooked fish and shellfish in a traditional copper pot.
Drive or hop on a train and head north to Lisbon, Portugal’s lively and artistic capital city. After arriving and sampling your first pastel da nata, spend a few hours meandering through and exploring the winding streets of Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in the city and the most popular spot to hear fado, Portugal’s magically melancholic traditional music.
Where should you eat amidst all that sightseeing? Finding a nice spot is sometimes as easy as closing your eyes and pointing (the restaurants are everywhere), but these restaurants stand out from the rest. If you’re in the mood for something quick and budget-friendly, a popular suggestion is finding a churrasqueira and ordering frango assado, Portugal’s take on spicy grilled chicken.; or head to Cais do Sodré and choose one of the tascas or riverside cafés for a quick meal with a view.
An afternoon in Lisbon is an excellent time to head to Belém, where it’s possible to tour magnificent buildings with significant heritage importance. The Jeronimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, and the Discoveries Monument are three key landmarks not to miss.
No doubt, Sintra deserves a full day dedicated to it, so visit the day after arriving in Lisbon. The easiest way to get there is by train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station (don’t forget to snap a few photos of the station’s ornate entrance). The train ride lasts about an hour and costs €2.25 each way.
It’s best to visit Sintra with a plan and know which castles and palaces you want to see most. The Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Castle of the Moors may arguably be the three most popular landmarks for first-time visitors.
Make your way to Porto, but fit in enough time for one stop first. Two great locations to choose from are the historic riverside city of Coimbra, located in central Portugal and home to the country’s oldest university, and Portugal’s Art Nouveau capital, Aveiro, a romantic city nicknamed “The Venice of Portugal.”
Finally, wrap up your trip in traditional Porto, home of delicious croissants (just ask the locals about their love of Porto’s croissants), the francesinha calorie bomb, and amazing landmarks that give the city its own special personality.
By the end of a busy week-long voyage through this amazing country, it’s probably time for a little rest and relaxation, but first, make sure to visit the Ribeira District for some more sightseeing. History buffs may like seeing the house where Henry the Navigator was born, called the Casa do Infante, and you can also check out some of the incredible displays of azulejo mosaics that Porto is home to.
A few last-minute activities to fit in before saying adeus to Portugal include going for a walk along a nearby beach, taking in a spectacular view from a rooftop terrace and shopping in one of the local markets.
Do you want to see the best historic destinations in Portugal?
Keep reading for a few ideas to explore one of the oldest countries in Europe and its many beautiful historic towns.
Tomar, Portugal
Who has a penchant for following the history of the Knights Templar? Anyone who thinks “me” should make a trip to Tomar, Portugal, a town that was once a sort of headquarters for this mysterious Catholic group. Visit the 12th-century Convento de Cristo (Convent of Christ), a medieval fortress and church where the local branch of the Templars met for religious mass and gatherings. Tomar is also the location of one of the best-preserved synagogues in Portugal in addition to many other Catholic churches dating between the 12th and 15th centuries, the 17th-century Pegões aqueduct, and the stunning park and gardens called National Forest of Seven Hills (a perfect spot for a stroll).
Coimbra
Coimbra is one of the oldest cities in Portugal. It also happens to be the home of the oldest university in the country, The University of Coimbra, also one of the oldest universities in all of Europe. Then there is the Biblioteca Joanina, a major attraction that has been listed among the most beautiful libraries in the world. Intersected with medieval, cobbled streets and filled with souvenir shops, Coimbra is a lovely spot to walk through and it is near many sightseeing opportunities that are considered “off the beaten path” like Conimbriga, excavated ruins that date back to the Roman occupation, as early as 139 BC.
The center of Angra do Heroísmo is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the role it played as a port of call and trading center during and after the Age of Discoveries. It is also the oldest continuously settled town in the Azores, located on the third largest island, Terceira (after São Miguel and Pico). Be sure to visit the 18th-century Praça Velha, the central town square surrounded by lovely churches, museums, hotels, and restaurants, and don’t forget to snap photos of the 16th-century town cathedral rimmed in peach-hued borders and the baby blue and white Igreja da Misericórdia (Misericordia Church).
Évora’s portfolio is an expansive one. It is the regional capital of Alentejo, Portugal‘s large, sleepy wine region and farmland where locals tend to move to the beat of their own drum. In the 15th century, Évora was the residence of many of Portugal’s royalty. It is a town that doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and triples as an open-air museum. Major landmarks include the Roman Temple of Diana, the medieval 16th-century Chapel of Bones, the 13th-century Cathedral, and the ancient Royal Palace of Évora, the latter reflecting Portugal’s very own Manueline architectural style.
The town square in the center of Guimarães is so historic, you may feel like you’ve been transported through time while just standing there. Its 11th-century castle is where Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, was born and for this reason, Guimarães has adopted a reputation as “the birthplace of Portugal”. In 2012, Guimarães was named the European Capital of Culture and is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Medieval streets and palaces, religious museums, and Gothic monuments are just a few of the visual treats that are waiting.
Sintra
Anyone who has heard of Sintra knows that it’s a lovely town filled with amazing buildings like the romantic, 19th-century Pena Palace. What they may not know is that it was once where many of Portugal’s royal family members and aristocrats lived or vacationed, attracted by the forested landscape and mild climate (hence the abundance of fascinating architecture and gardens). Most of the attractions are house-museums inside romantic and eclectic mansions, chalets, and palaces. Of course, there is also the medieval fortress, the Castelo dos Mouros, built in the 10th century by the Moors who once had control in Portugal.
In the 1st century AD, Roman settlers lived in what is now called Chaves, Portugal, a town close to the border with Spain in the Tras-os-Montes region. Left behind as a memento is an amazingly well preserved Roman bridge, connecting the two sides of town across the Tâmega River and which is still used. Early settlers are believed to have been attracted to Chaves for the local hot springs, providing some of the hottest, natural mineral water between Portugal and Spain. Today it is a town oozing in tradition and local culture, the landmarks include the medieval town square and castle and a 14th-century fortification that has been converted into a hotel.
Braga
Braga is a city that meets many superlatives. It is home to the third largest metropolitan area after Lisbon and Porto and the oldest archdiocese in Portugal (originating in the 3rd century). Braga is one of the oldest cities in the country. Conversely, it has one of the youngest spirits in Portugal and is home to 2 universities and multiple other educational centers. Visit Braga to tour the Sé Cathedral, dating back as early as the 11th century making it the oldest cathedral in the country and one that showcases Renaissance, Baroque, Moorish, Manueline, and Gothic architecture. Then there is the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte, a hilltop sanctuary that attracts many visitors every year with its views and religious significance. Downtown, you’ll find no shortage of cafés, shops, restaurants, and bars, so there is plenty of socializing to enjoy in between sightseeing.
Cascais is a beautiful resort town just an hour from Lisbon along the coast. It is also a Portuguese town with a unique heritage that blends the country’s maritime history with its role as a vacation destination for many of Europe’s wealthy families. Visit Cascais for the beach but also tour the local museums showcasing the wealth acquired by Portuguese aristocrats, like the seaside Museu dos Condes de Castro Guimarães. Highlighting the area’s modest fishing past is the Museu do Mar. Then stay to walk along the stunning coast and enjoy fresh seafood from one of the many seaside restaurants.
This list would not be complete without mentioning the absolute oldest settlement in the entire country. Ponte de Lima, named after the bridge that crosses the Lima River, is a charming village in the Minho region of Portugal, located north of Porto in northwest Portugal. The downtown is decorated with eye-catching manor homes, ancient yet well-preserved buildings, and stunning gardens. It is also a town with one of the most interesting stories steeped in superstition, stemming from early Romans in Portugal. It was believed that the river would cause total amnesia to anyone who touched it, leading to the Roman bridge that still stands today. Ponte de Lima is also in the center of the Vinho Verde wine region, and visiting the local vineyards is a popular activity for visitors.
Angra do Heroismo early in the morning | © Roman Sulla / Shutterstock
Évora’s Temple and Chapel | © Pixbay
Fishing boats at anchor Lisbon Cascais historical harbour | © PJCC / Alamy Stock Photo[/caption]