City Guide for: Various locations, Portugal

Wine Cellars (Adega)

Explore the traditional wine cellars (Adega) scattered across the island. Discover the unique architecture of these stone structures and learn about the winemaking process. Sample local wines and experience the hospitality of the local winemakers. A taste of the island's culture and its connection to the land.

Nazare

Experience the charm of Nazaré, a traditional fishing village known for its giant waves and stunning coastline. Watch the surfers tackle the massive swells, stroll along the beach, and enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants. Nazaré offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 - 2 hours by car from Lisbon and surrounding areas.

Activities

• Watch the giant waves at Praia do Norte
• Ride the Nazaré Funicular
• Visit the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré
• Stroll along the beach
• Enjoy fresh seafood

Cáceres

Explore the medieval city of Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its well-preserved historic center, admire the palaces and towers, and discover the rich history of this Extremaduran gem. Cáceres offers a captivating glimpse into Spain's past.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 - 2 hours by car from various locations in Extremadura, Spain and nearby areas of Portugal.

Activities

• Explore the Plaza Mayor of Cáceres
• Visit the Co-cathedral of Santa María
• Wander through the old town
• Climb the Bujaco Tower
• Visit the Casa de las Veletas (Cáceres Museum)

Óbidos

Step back in time in the charming walled town of Óbidos. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, admire the whitewashed houses adorned with flowers, and sample the local cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, served in a chocolate cup. Óbidos is a delightful medieval escape.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 - 1.5 hours by car from Lisbon and surrounding areas.

Activities

• Walk along the Óbidos Walls
• Explore the Óbidos Castle
• Sample Ginjinha (cherry liqueur)
• Browse the artisan shops
• Visit the Igreja de Santa Maria

Évora

Step back in time in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Explore its well-preserved Roman temple, wander through the medieval streets, and marvel at the eerie Chapel of Bones. Évora offers a fascinating glimpse into Portugal's rich history and architectural heritage. Don't miss the cathedral and the Giraldo Square.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 - 2.5 hours by car from various locations in the Alentejo region of Portugal and nearby areas of Spain.

Activities

• Visit the Roman Temple of Évora
• Explore the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)
• Wander through the Évora Cathedral
• Stroll through Giraldo Square
• Discover the University of Évora

Mérida

Immerse yourself in Roman history in Mérida, another UNESCO World Heritage city. Explore the impressive Roman Theatre, Amphitheatre, and bridge. Mérida boasts some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Spain, offering a captivating journey back to the Roman Empire.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 - 2.5 hours by car from various locations in the Extremadura region of Spain and nearby areas of Portugal.

Activities

• Visit the Roman Theatre of Mérida
• Explore the Roman Amphitheatre of Mérida
• Walk across the Roman Bridge of Mérida
• Discover the Temple of Diana
• Visit the National Museum of Roman Art

Salamanca

Discover the golden city of Salamanca, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Admire the stunning Plaza Mayor, wander through the historic center, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this university town. Salamanca is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural delights.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 - 2.5 hours by car from various locations in western Spain and nearby areas of Portugal.

Activities

• Visit the Plaza Mayor
• Explore the University of Salamanca
• Climb the towers of the Salamanca Cathedral
• Cross the Roman Bridge
• Search for the frog on the facade of the University

Tomar

Discover the historical town of Tomar, home to the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore this magnificent Templar stronghold, wander through the charming town center, and learn about the fascinating history of the Knights Templar in Portugal.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 - 2 hours by car from Lisbon and surrounding areas.

Activities

• Visit the Convento de Cristo
• Explore the historic center of Tomar
• Walk along the Nabão River
• Visit the Igreja de São João Baptista
• Discover the Aqueduto dos Pegões

Sintra

Escape to the fairytale town of Sintra, nestled in the hills near Lisbon. Discover Pena Palace, a colorful Romanticist castle, explore the Quinta da Regaleira with its mysterious wells, and wander through the charming historic center. Sintra is a feast for the eyes and a delight for the imagination.

Travel Time

Approximately 30 minutes - 1.5 hours by train or car from Lisbon and surrounding areas.

Activities

• Visit Pena Palace
• Explore Quinta da Regaleira
• Wander through the Moorish Castle
• Discover the National Palace of Sintra
• Hike in the Sintra Mountains

Nazaré

Experience the thrill of giant waves in Nazaré, a coastal town famous for its surfing. Witness the world's best surfers tackle massive swells at Praia do Norte. Ride the funicular up to Sítio, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming fishing village.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 hours by bus from Lisbon.

Activities

• Watch the surfers at Praia do Norte
• Ride the funicular to Sítio
• Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré
• Enjoy fresh seafood
• Relax on the beach

Óbidos

Step back in time in Óbidos, a charming medieval town enclosed within ancient walls. Stroll along the narrow, cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea. Sample the local cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, served in a chocolate cup. Climb the castle walls for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Óbidos is a perfect example of a well-preserved historic village.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour by bus from Lisbon.

Activities

• Walk along the Óbidos Castle walls
• Explore the Porta da Vila (main gate)
• Visit the Igreja de Santa Maria (church)
• Sample Ginjinha
• Browse the local artisan shops

Évora

Discover the rich history of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city in the Alentejo region. Explore the well-preserved Roman Temple of Diana, a testament to the city's ancient past. Visit the eerie Chapel of Bones, decorated with human skulls and bones. Wander through the historic city center, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. Évora offers a fascinating glimpse into Portugal's diverse heritage.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5 hours by train from Lisbon.

Activities

• Visit the Roman Temple of Diana
• Explore the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)
• Visit the Évora Cathedral
• Wander through the Giraldo Square
• Explore the University of Évora

Alcobaça

Visit Alcobaça, home to the impressive Alcobaça Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Cistercian monastery is one of the most important medieval monuments in Portugal. Admire the Gothic architecture and the tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro, a tragic love story in Portuguese history. Explore the charming town center and enjoy the local cuisine.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by bus from Lisbon.

Activities

• Visit the Alcobaça Monastery
• Explore the town center
• Visit the Igreja Matriz de Alcobaça (church)
• Enjoy the local cuisine
• Visit the Museu do Vinho de Alcobaça (wine museum)

Sintra

Step into a fairytale in Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the hills near Lisbon. Explore the vibrant Pena Palace, a Romanticist masterpiece with stunning views. Wander through the Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious estate with hidden tunnels and wells. Discover the ruins of the Moorish Castle, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline. Sintra's unique microclimate creates lush gardens and a magical atmosphere.

Travel Time

Approximately 30-45 minutes by train from Lisbon.

Activities

• Visit Pena Palace
• Explore Quinta da Regaleira
• Discover the Moorish Castle
• Wander through the historic town center
• Hike in the Sintra Mountains

Sesimbra

Escape to the coastal paradise of Sesimbra, known for its beautiful beaches and stunning natural park. Explore the imposing Sesimbra Castle, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Relax on the golden sands of Praia do Ouro. Discover the Arrábida Natural Park, a haven for hiking and nature lovers. Sesimbra is a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip.

Travel Time

Approximately 45 minutes by bus from Lisbon.

Activities

• Visit Sesimbra Castle
• Relax on Praia do Ouro
• Explore Arrábida Natural Park
• Go scuba diving or snorkeling
• Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor

Tomar

Discover the historical charm of Tomar, home to the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This magnificent complex was once the headquarters of the Knights Templar and later the Order of Christ. Explore the intricate architecture, including the iconic Charola (rotunda). Wander through the charming town center and soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by train from Lisbon.

Activities

• Visit the Convento de Cristo
• Explore the historic town center
• Visit the Igreja de São João Baptista (church)
• Walk along the Nabão River
• Visit the Synagogue of Tomar

Fátima

Visit Fátima, one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Explore the Sanctuary of Fátima, a vast complex of churches, chapels, and monuments. Witness the devotion of pilgrims from around the globe. Learn about the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. Fátima offers a spiritual and moving experience.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by bus from Lisbon.

Activities

• Visit the Sanctuary of Fátima
• Attend a mass at the Chapel of Apparitions
• Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
• Explore the Fátima Wax Museum
• Reflect at the Chapel of Adoration