It’s not difficult to get to know Portuguese culture, especially as there are many ways to experience it through music, art, dance, and other forms of storytelling. Folk music and dancing, along with fado – a type of singing that dates back to the 1800s – have both made it to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, and there’s a myriad of local festivals, events and holidays to witness (and participate in) across the year.
When it comes to everyday life in Portugal, you’re likely to notice a couple of things: its strong café scene and love of fine food. Portuguese people relish getting together with friends and family over coffee and pastel de nata while the sun shines high up ahead. Sounds like the secret to happiness, to us.
Working your toes into the sand while staring at the infinitely azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean… nothing could be better. Portugal’s plethora of sandy, pebbled, sheltered and sweeping beaches create huge stretches of coastline that’s a joy to explore.
Many famous architects have had a hand in building Portugal’s golf courses, of which there are dozens – including the second oldest course in Europe, Espiche Golf in the Algarve.
Picturesque Lisbon has earned its place as one of the top destinations in Portugal. This historic city predates other European capitals like London, Paris and Rome, and is filled with historic attractions such as the Belem Tower. It’s also a fantastic place to experience Portugal’s love of music, wine, and great gastronomy, whether you’re sipping on a coffee in Parque Eduardo VII or treating yourself to luxury fare on the Avenida de Liberdade.
Porto’s center was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in the 1990s for its resplendent architecture. On a similar note, the city is defined by the historic bridges that decorate its landscape. Vibrant and affordable, Porto has been voted the ‘best destination in Europe’ three times across the past decade. Head here for culture, heritage, beautiful buildings, and delicious port wine, which originates from the surrounding region.
While there are many wonderful things to see and do in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, you don’t want to overlook its neighbor, Sintra, which is just 30km away. Containing amazing spots such as the Palace of Sintra, National Palace of Pena, and Castle of the Moors, your taste for historic sights will be satiated from dawn until dusk while holidaying here.
Evora has a long history dating back to the Roman Empire. Museums and galleries are scattered across its streets, providing fascinating links to Portuguese heritage, art, and more, while popular sights include the Cathedral of Evora and Temple of Diana. There are several cafes and parks to visit for lazier afternoons under blue skies, too.
Enjoy taking in UNESCO World Heritage sites while playing tourist? How about 25 of them? Portugal’s historic centers, archaeological sites, culture-filled cities, towns, and villages and natural parks are all interwoven with its fascinating heritage. There are so many things to see.
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