By Mashum Mollah
There has been a consistent rise in the number of foreign tourists in Portugal with each passing year. Foreign tourists are attracted to this beautiful land for a number of reasons and there is something to do for every type of traveler personality. One visit is never enough when it comes to this beautiful destination of Europe. Here are some reasons why it is the first choice of many.
Lisbon’s charm:
Lisbon is set against the prettiest backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a truly sun-kissed city which lives in timeworn traditions and manners. You have not truly experienced Portugal if you skip Lisbon. Do not miss out on the old wooden trams and iron funiculars which are still a part of the city. You can also witness the heritage of the city by visiting the Baixa district.
Porto:
Porto has a medieval heart and carries a contemporary buzz. It has some of the best churches you will come across. It is the second city of Portugal which merits a visit every single time. The city is carved in two by the famous Douro river and it has the sophistication and is home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and bars.
Wine:
No points for guessing this one! The national drink of Portugal is available across the country and of course in its home. You can visit any bar or restaurant and you will find fortified wine. However, if you want to buy in larger quantities, you need to head to the plentiful licensed shops where you can find anything from a 100-year-old bottle to an affordable vintage.
A bookshop:
If you are a fan of Harry Potter, you will find an immediate connection with Portugal. JK Rowling was a regular at Livraria Lello bookstore which is one of the most famous bookstores in the city. It has decorative bookcases and carved wooden ceilings which is a delight for one and all.
Pastel de Natas:
Tarts are nowhere as good as in Portugal. Pasteis de Belem is located in Lison and has long queues for the rich, sweet and crisp tarts.
Weather:
Seated on the western edge of beautiful Europe, Lisbon is also the sunniest capital city which has maximum sunshine in a year.
Madeira:
Keep in mind that Madeira is nothing like Ibiza. It is thronged by mature clients and they visit the island for the dramatic scenery. This island offers fine wine and food in addition to the stunning landscape.
Vasco da Gama:
There is a bridge located in Lisbon and is a record-breaking structure named Vasco da Gama. It is the longest bridge in Europe at 10.7 miles.
Spectacular stadium:
Portugal’s victory in 2016 ignited a deeper interest in a sport that already has a religious status in the country. You can find many opportunities to watch a game but if you want to watch something special, you need to head to the Estádio Municipal de Braga. This stadium is carved out of a rock and will promise you an experience of a lifetime.
The beaches:
Portugal is known for the excellent coastline, the best weather and a number of stunning resorts. You can book a holiday home for yourself on the seaside. Depending on the number of people you are traveling with, you can find one from interhome.co.uk.
The waves:
Portugal has become the best surfing destination with a wave for all the ability. Due to the Atlantic Ocean, the waves are the best in Portugal but thankfully, it remains relatively uncrowded.
Azore:
Located about 850 miles from Portugal, in the floating Atlantic ocean is Azore which is the best answer to Hawaii. It is also known as the Hawaii of the Atlantic and there is a lot of deep sea, which is beautiful, wild and steep-sided. The weather also matches the glow of this beautiful place and every day here is different. It is also one of the top spots in Europe to enjoy whale watching.
The secret cities:
All of us have heard about Lisbon and Porto but have you heard of Sintra and Tavira? They are the secret Portuguese cities you need to spend your time on. They are lesser known which makes them less crowded and are more like the old Portuguese cities.
Nightlife:
From Lisbon to Porto, there are seaside resorts and bars lined across the streets, Portugal’s love affair with the night is no secret. Lisbon has a vivacious clubbing scene which is poised to spread across the country as well.
Fado Bars:
Portugal has a musical tradition which is different from any other. It is a distinctive song form known as fado. It is slow and melancholic in character. There is lyrical and soulful music which is accompanied by the guitars and it is a must for you to catch a live performance. The melodies of Fado will remain with you for a long time to come.
Douro:
You might think that the Douro is no Thames but it is one of the most beautiful waterways in Europe. It passes through villages, Porto and vineyards and also across the city’s iconic iron bridge.
A chapel made from bones:
The Capela dos Ossos is located in Evora and is made from bones. It is decorated with human skulls and bones from about 5000 corpses. It was built in the 16th century and remains a source of tourist attraction.
Apart from the scenic beauty and the stunning landscape, there is so much to see and do in Portugal. If you visit Portugal once, you will be dying to come back to this beautiful European destination. It is easy to reach and it is best to book your flights and accommodation well in advance. Try to avoid the heavy tourist season if you want to spend your time exploring the place by yourself. Plan a relaxing beach holiday with your friends and family at this picturesque and beautifully situated destination in Europe.
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