Portugal Travel OverviewFor any traveler wanting to get off the beaten track in Europe; Portugal has infinite possibilities to experience small towns and diverse landscapes that remain very much like they were a hundred years ago. Portugal is a small; compact country; whose history and customs are deeply influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The Portuguese are proud of their seafaring past; as Vasco de Gama; Columbus and others were pioneers of exploration in Africa; the Americas and India. Portugal was a major colonial power until less than twenty years ago. Following the independence of several of Portugal’s African colonies (1974-1975) over a million refugees moved into the major urban areas of Portugal. The immigrants have integrated well into Portuguese society which has led to a fascinating multi-cultural atmosphere in the major urban areas; especially in Lisbon . For such a small country; you have many options from which to choose: A San Francisco-esque city; spreading over seven hills which descend into the Rio Tejo (Tagus River)- Lisbon is perhaps Europe’s most pleasant and affordable city. Its fantastic architecture; diverse population; delicious seafood; intriguing tile-work and non-stop night-life bring together the best elements of Portuguese life. Don’t miss an evening bar-hopping in the Barrio-Alto listening to African music and Portuguese blues-fado! Tour beautifully restored towns and well-preserved architecture of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in Evora ; Batalha and Alcobaça . If you are interested in monuments; Evora and Coimbra are must-sees. The most beautiful natural areas lie in the Minho ; Lima; and Douro valley. You can explore the verdant beauty and rural customs of the Minho Valley; or check out the spectacular gorge in the Douro valley . The city of Oporto is located at the end of the Douro Valley; on the sea; and is famous for its port wine. It is an excellent base for exploring the region. If it’s the beach you are after; the Algarve coast offers highly developed stretches of beach. The rest of the coast (with the exception of the area near Lisbon and Porto) remain relaxing; totally Portuguese and isolated. Great stretches of sand are there for the relaxing; especially along the northern Costa Verde ; near Viano do Castelo . The beaches near southern Alentejo are the most remote and least populated. Transportation and accommodation are excellent and very reasonable; perhaps the cheapest in Europe. The wine is excellent and don’t forget to try some vinho do Porto (port); Portugal’s most famous export. If you are interested click here. Popular Destinations
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