Attractions in Portugal

This special country, which is at a direct flight distance from Israel of 6 hours on the way and 5 hours and a little on the return, has become in recent years a destination that attracts many Israelis and for good reason. It has something colorful, special, lively and also very light compared to other European countries, if only because of the relatively comfortable weather there, which is very similar to that of Israel. You can find a huge and very respectable selection of attractions in Portugal, some of which are even suitable for families with children and some of which are very ancient, those that tell a story of hundreds of years. 

Here is an overview of some of the most prominent attractions and points of interest in Portugal that are highly recommended to include during your vacation - From the northernmost to the southernmost:

Madeira – The archipelago Madeira, located north of the Canary Islands, belongs to Portugal and is considered one of the favorite vacation destinations of the Portuguese and Europeans in general and for good reason. It is actually two islands - Madeira and Porto Santo, inhabited islands known as a very prominent tourist attraction in the area. Those looking for blue skies, comfortable and pleasant weather as well as beautiful beaches, Madeira is definitely the right address. You can spend time on the beach and enjoy a pleasant and caressing winter sun and eat exotic food served with good beer. Porto Santo is especially loved by beach lovers and is known in Portugal as one of the leading spots in regards to bathing beaches. Interesting stopping points in the islands of the archipelago are the home of Christopher Columbus, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, also known as the Museu CR7 and the Madeira Wine Museum. Madeira is suitable to go to in any season and is especially recommended in autumn, when in other European countries the temperatures start to drop and the coolness takes over the area. 

Peneda-Geres National Park - This is the only national park in Portugal, which is also considered an attraction in itself that justifies a visit while on vacation in the country. The Panda Grass National Park is located in Minho, an area known for its spectacular scenery, forests of oak trees and a winding Roman road with ancient landmarks, bridges and waterfalls. Camping is allowed in different areas of the park (point areas, designated for this purpose) and it even has natural pools, where you can swim in the warm months. A visit to this park is a solution for those looking for hiking and also for all those who like to watch birds. 

Braga - It combines, and very successfully, between old and new and is known as the fourth largest city in Portugal. Braga is also among the oldest cities in the country, a very strong, very leading city and one that attracts many young people, especially students who come to study at its neighboring university, the University of Minho (Monho). The city itself was even named the European Youth Capital in 2012 and for good reason. It is full of cafes, restaurants, bars and also shops, it is lively and it seems that it does not stop for a moment. At the same time, it has a very old cathedral and the oldest in the country, which serves as a place of religious refuge. Visitors to the city are recommended to climb the 116 steps that lead to the top of a hill surrounded by forest to enjoy a breathtaking view. 

Guimaraes - This is the first (unofficial) capital of Portugal that you should stop at when traveling in the northern part of the country or when you want to explore it in depth and visit all its must-see sites. The city is very accessible and is only 50 km from Porto and you can easily reach it with a rented car or by bus. In the 12th century, Ofense I was king in Portugal, who was also Malka I, who came from the city of Guimaras, his hometown. Since then, the city adopted the nickname attached to it "the hometown of Portugal" and it attracts many visitors. A stopping point that should definitely be included when visiting the city is the castle where the king and other important historical figures used to live. 

Porto - is a mandatory stopping point and also the one where quite a few Israelis stop. Some choose to stay exclusively there, while others choose to combine it with other points and attractions in the country. Porto city It is the second largest city in Portugal and many times people make the mistake of thinking that it is actually the capital city. It is a colorful, beautiful and very special city. While Lisbon stands out for its pleasant weather and sunny days, Porto is a cultural leader. The train station of Sao Bento is a recommended place to stop thanks to the special mosaic tiles woven into it, which turn the walls into a real work of art. The city also has beautiful gardens, palaces from the Middle Ages, impressive cathedrals and of course good restaurants that serve great local cuisine. Porto is also known for its famous port wine and many vineyards decorate its immediate surroundings.

Serra da Estrela - Although this is a destination that is not easy to reach, it is definitely worth the effort. Serra da Estrella offers the highest mountain peak in mainland Portugal and is a perfect destination for nature lovers, especially its mountain range, which is used, among other things, as a ski resort during the snowy winter months. It is a more isolated and remote area and the nature in it is the main attraction, but besides all this there is quite a bit to do there, especially tasting excellent homemade honey and cheeses produced on the spot. 

Coimbra - In the center of Portugal is a charming city that attracts crowds of visitors, Portuguese as well as tourists from all over the world. Coimbra is home to a large number of Roman and medieval ruins and an important historical center, which used to be the country's capital. Among the tourist attractions where you can find the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest institutions in the world. The university library is an attraction in itself both thanks to the very old books in it and thanks to its special structure designed in the baroque style and the fact that it is known as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. 

Monsanto (Monsanto) - Here is a wonderful opportunity to get on the "time elevator" and go on a short trip to old Portugal. A visit to Monsanto is a slightly different way to get to know the Portugal of the past and to visit a charming Portuguese village that looks and behaves as it did in the olden days and has barely changed over the centuries. It is a hidden gem and less known among many travelers and that is exactly what makes it one that justifies a visit. The village itself is built around and inside huge rocks, which decorate it from all sides and give it a unique appearance. 

Sao Miguel (Sao Miguel) – The regional archipelago, which belongs to Portugal, is definitely worth a visit. The largest of the islands is São Miguel and it is also the easiest to reach by air. Sao Miguel has countless hiking trails suitable for lovers of nature and beautiful landscapes, it has waterfalls, lakes and an atmosphere like no other. But the most "worth" point of interest, the one that should not be missed, is Furnas. Fornes is a small village in Sao Miguel with natural hot springs, rich in minerals. These springs are an attraction in themselves and an opportunity to diversify the trip in Portugal a little with a real treat in every season. 

Obidos - is one of the most special cities in Portugal, a city located within the walls of a castle. Obidos It is a charming picturesque city, the visit of which is a must, especially for those who are interested in extraordinary photos from their vacation. The white houses, framed with bright colorful flowers and the charming shops, open to tourists, all these and more make it a real gem. You should not miss a taste of the locally produced cherry liqueur, the Ginja de Obidos, served in tiny chocolate cups. The city is known as one of the most romantic destinations in Portugal and is visited by locals, those living in other parts of the country and of course tourists from all over the world. 

Ericeira - Surfing enthusiasts will find this small fishing village or the coastal town of Aricaria to be a must and for good reason. It is known in Portugal, and in fact all over the world, as a recommended place to catch waves thanks to the good conditions there and the special coastline and it is very easy to get to from Lisbon. It is located 35 km northwest of the capital Lisbon and has less than 15,000 inhabitants. At the same time, sitting along its spectacular cliffs, watching surfers or actually surfing in the sea are not the only things you can do there. The restaurants of Aricaria are the attraction It is also worth a visit and it is highly recommended to pamper yourself and order the seafood, which is offered, fresh and delicious seafood. In the 40's and 50's of the last century, the village was a very popular vacation spot for many families who came to it from Lisbon and today it is a very popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world and of course also for experienced surfers or amateurs.

Sintra - Ensign Christian Anderson, the famous author who wrote the children's fairy tales we all know, lived in a house built in one of the Sintra forests and many visitors stop by to visit it, as well as to visit the many palaces and fortresses in the city. the city Sinatra is only 30 km from the city of Lisbon and is very easy to get to. It is suitable for a day trip if you choose to stay in Lisbon or for a trip of two or three days, then stay overnight in one of the hotels there. It is recommended to stop at the Pena Palace, built in the 19th century And don't miss the teachers' castle. 

Lisbon – the city Lisbon It is the capital city of Portugal and among the most visited cities in Europe and of course in the country itself. The famous mosaic paths in the city are considered an attraction in itself, which many tourists document with their cameras and the peace and pleasantness are an inseparable part of it. Although it is a city with a very large number of visitors, this is hardly noticeable and it manages to maintain a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors to Lisbon will discover beautiful viewpoints, charming narrow alleys and unusual nightlife. It is very worthwhile to walk around the city after dark and also stop at the local restaurants. The trendy Chiado district is a must-stop thanks to, among other things, the oldest bookstore in the world and Bairro Alto, which comes alive at night. The weather in Lisbon is sunny and very pleasant and any period is definitely suitable for a visit. 

Alentejo – For those who want to break away from the crowds, Alentejo is the right area to go to. The capital city of the region, the city of Evora, is known for its rich history and the mysterious nature that characterizes it, making it a perfect destination to visit. You should stop at the Cafe dos Ossos (Capela dos Ossos) or the Chapel of Nones, where there are about 5,000 human skeletons. There are, of course, other historical sites that are also worth stopping at, such as the Roman temple or the Avora Cathedral, and it is highly recommended to stay overnight at the hotels of Alentejo, which are known to be very special. Avora and the surrounding villages are ideal for day trips in nature, to enjoy fine food and taste excellent wine, which is produced in the area. 

Algarve – This is the southernmost region of Portugal, comprising an area of ​​almost 5,000 square kilometers with nearly half a million inhabitants and 16 towns. It is also home to the international airport of the region and the public university of the Algarve. The region is known for the excellent fruit and fish it offers and you can find a variety An abundance of great fruits such as oranges, figs and plums as well as fish of all kinds and good seafood. Although the city of Lisbon exceeds the Algarve in terms of income in terms of tourism, this area is considered the largest and most important Portuguese tourist area and a calculation made 3 years ago found that more than seven million tourists that year. The number of tourists in the region triples during the holidays and reaches a peak and tourism there is mainly seasonal. Most of the residents in the Algarve They are Europeans who came from central and northern Europe and also quite a few Americans, who find the area a great place to retire. The Algarve has great weather, lovely beaches and a wonderful cultural scene. You should dedicate a long weekend to it and combine a stop at its main points of interest.