Holiday Destinations - Portugal

Portugal
Rediscover the romance of travel with a trip to Portugal, a gem on the Iberian Peninsula that will charm you with its
grand castles, sacred sites and picturesque villages attesting to over 900 years of history. Also blessed with
sun-kissed beaches and dramatic rocky coves, Portugal deserves your admiration for both its natural splendour and
culture- and history-laden cities. Portugal’s rich culture has been shaped by the various civilizations that have passed through the country throughout history. First settled by the Celtic people in the 1st century BC, the lands of the Iberian Peninsula have been invaded by numerous peoples, including the Romans, Moors and Christians, each leaving their marks the country.Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is packed with historical attractions, Art Nouveau architecture and winding mediaeval streets. Make sure to visit the Belem Tower, which was built in the early 16th century to commemorate the expedition of Portuguese hero Vasco de Gama during the Age of Great Discoveries. Other sights to soak in include the
Monument to the Discoveries and the suspension bridge across the Tagus River, reminiscent of the Golden Gate
Bridge in San Francisco. There are so many more cities that should not be missed in Portugal. Wine enthusiasts should make their way to Oporto, home of the sweet wine Port. Here you’ll also see magnificent bridges, the baroque Church of St. Francis and the grand Stock Exchange. For a sacred experience, visit the pilgrimage city of Fatima, where three young shepherds saw the apparition of the Virgin at a basilica. Evora, Portugal’s most important town in the Renaissance period,
is a unique walled town with a heady mix of sights, such as the macabre Ossuary Chapel and the Roman temple.
It’s so easy to get joyfully lost in the narrow mediaeval streets of some of Portugal’s most charming cities. In picturesque town of Castelo de Vide, you can wander through the narrow alleyways of the Old Jewish Quarter, filled with
whitewashed buildings. In the old Roman town of Coimbra, stroll the ancient streets and visit one of the oldest
universities in the world with its ornate Baroque library.While taking in the historic sights in Portugal, don’t forget the white sandy beaches that paint the coast and draw the crowds. At the Sagres peninsula, you can admire
the view across the wild beauty of the Baleeira Beach. For an escape from the bustle of Lisbon, head to the Sintra
coast, home to rocky coves and some of Portugal’s most pristine beaches.One  can easily sweep the coast of Portugal and discover the hidden charms of its inland cities and see the best of Portugal, from its historic sights to its vivacious
culture, leaving you to relax and immerse yourself in a truly captivating country.