Portugal is a country in southern Europe that borders Spain on the Western side. Surfers don’t need much explaining why Portugal is the place to go, but waves are not the only thing that makes Portugal interesting. Its historic cities, sumptuous cuisine, scenic landscapes, and stunning beaches are the primary reasons why tourists flock to the country. These are the unusual places to visit in Portugal:
- Algarve
The Algarve, in particular, is a popular tourist destination because of its Atlantic beaches and golf resorts. It provides a refreshing break from the typical European adventure involving castles and museums. The city of Faro and the town of Lagos are renowned for their sandy white beaches. With companies like Haven on Earth you can book a villa to ensure that you have the best view of the Atlantic along Portugal’s coast.
Aside from water-based activities, like swimming, snorkeling, and diving, you can also join the Ria Formosa Festival if you happen to go there in the last week of July or early August.
- Sintra
Sintra is near Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. It’s the place to visit if you want a glimpse of the country’s history as it’s the home of castles and palaces that were used by the royal family at the time. To visit Sintra you can stay in in the capital as there are plenty of amazing hotels in Lisbon. The Palácio da Pena in Sintra, built by Ferdinand II, is one of the most renowned palaces in the area. It’s protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is considered as one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders.
- Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela
Nature lovers will enjoy hiking or biking through the mountains of Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela. Its 1000-square-kilometer area is the ideal place for people looking for adventure. You can climb Portugal’s highest peak, the Torre. Moreover, you can also engage in winter sports because it has the highest levels of precipitation, resulting in abundant snow in the colder months.
- Évora
If you’re into the morbid stuff, the Capela dos Ossos or Chapel of Bones may pique your interest. The structure got its name because its interior walls are literally lined with human skulls and skeletons. It’s estimated that about 5,000 bodies are cemented to the walls of the chapel. While it may seem gruesome, the initial intent of its creator, a Franciscan friar, is to encourage his fellow priests and visitors to contemplate the impermanence of life.
- Porto
Porto, Portugal, is a pilgrimage destination for Harry Potter fans because it’s an open secret that JK Rowling found inspiration in the quaint city. Check out places like the Lello Bookshop, Majestic Café, and the University of Porto to see the pages from the popular series come to life. Portugal is a fantastic tourist destination for people of all ages. Those looking to get sun-kissed skins can enjoy the stunning beaches of the Algarve coast while others who prefer to go to historical places can visit the palaces of Sintra.
Adventurers can also find something to do in the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela. People who are interested in morbidity and other existential concepts can visit the Chapel of Bones. Lastly, Harry Potter fans can see the places where JK Rowling got the inspiration for the elements in her famous book series.