Vila Nova de Gaia is located in Portugal’s Norte region, set opposite Porto on the River Douro. The city is famous for its incredible port cellars, golden sandy beaches, and its gorgeous stretch of restaurants along the river. Take a stroll and snap some photographs of the breathtaking vistas, at the port where wine and port have been carted back and forth for hundreds of years. Tour some of the 60 cellars; discover 16th-century history at Porto’s World Heritage Site, the Douro Monastery; or take the cable car up to Jardim do Morro for magnificent views of the pastel-coloured houses across the river. Other fantastic itinerary items include an aerial gondola to watch the water and town in all its hubbub, and trips to the beautiful, animal-filled Biological Park.
Tucked away in the Portuguese district of Castelo Branco, the historical town of Belmonte is known for its historical landmarks, Jewish heritage, religious history and incredible views. Belmonte is home to the largest Jewish community in Portugal. There are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in this small but vibrant town. Visitors can explore the13th century Belmonte Castle, a National Monument featuring an open-air amphitheatre with majestic walls; discover the Centum Cellas Tower, one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the country; visit the wide variety of Museums including the Museum of the Discoveries, the Museu Judaico De Belmonte and the Olive Oil Museum. Other highlights include: the River Beach, the Convent of Our Lady of Hope, Santiago Church and the Cabrais Pantheon.
Located in Portugal’s south-central Alentejo region, known for its glorious olive groves and traditional villages, the town of Evora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its profusion of historical architecture and archaeological sites. These include the ruins of an ancient Roman temple dating to about 1000 BC, the medieval University of Evora, founded in the 16th century, and several beautiful old churches. Oldest of all is the astonishing neolithic site at Almendres Cromlech, which dates back 8000 years and has been used for three millennia. One of the most intriguing and macabre religious sites is the Capela dos Ossos - the Chapel of Bones - which has interior walls encrusted with bones and skulls. Gourmands will delight in the mouth-watering local dishes, most notably the incredible range of delicious traditional desserts.
Lisbon, Portugal's hilly capital on the Tagus estuary, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, combines historic neighbourhoods, grand squares and waterfront districts with a lively contemporary atmosphere. A vibrant European capital, it is known for its distinctive yellow trams, tiled facades, winding streets and viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River. Travellers can explore the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, wander through the atmospheric lanes of Alfama, or ride Tram 28 through the city's historic quarters. Praça do Comércio and Rossio serve as lively gathering places, while the waterfront offers opportunities for dining and leisurely strolls. Lisbon also makes an excellent base for exploring nearby coastal scenery and cultural attractions, including Sintra. With its mild climate, rich maritime heritage and relaxed café culture, Lisbon offers a varied city break with plenty of character.
Set within a natural amphitheatre along the south coast of Portugal’s island of Madeira, Funchal is the capital city of the Madeira Archipelago. This picturesque city is perfectly positioned against a breathtaking backdrop of dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and forested mountains. Funchal is renowned for its variety of beautiful flowers, rich heritage, vibrant nightlife and scores of superb al fresco cafes and eateries. Visitors can look forward to a number of exciting activities including dolphin and whale watching tours, surfing magnificent waves, hiking through the lush landscape, and wine tasting at the famed Madeira Cellars. Don’t miss the amazing Gothic and Romanesque architecture of the Se Cathedral, the 15th-century Sao Tiago Fortress, housing Funchal’s Contemporary Art Museum, and the hillside Madeira Botanical Gardens which are decorated with over 2000 plants.
The Portuguese island of Porto Santo lies off the southwest coast of the Iberian Peninsula in the North Atlantic Ocean. The northernmost islet of the Madeira Archipelago, Porto Santo Island will reward visitors with a spectacular beach getaway featuring plenty of activities to enjoy. Boasting nine kilometres of soft sandy shoreline – and an ‘exclusive’ nature due to the limited number of hotels and resorts on the island – Porto Santo Island is perfect for unwinding in the sun between enjoying walking trails and horseback tours through the island’s interior. For golfers, the island also features a high-end Golf Course designed by Spanish golfing legend Seve Ballesteros, while the capital, Vila Baleira, offers a stately central square (Largo do Pelourinho), some excellent cafes and restaurants and an engaging Christopher Columbus Museum.
As previously described
