This wonderful country has too much to offer, we are all agree! Portugal has developing a very solid tourism system and its lifestyle is admirable: outstanding food, rich wines, amusement, live music and stunning architecture.
Crossing Portugal from North to South is a 5-sense journey and that’s why we want to share you you five key places to enjoy this country to the fullest:
Sintra, a glimpse into the past:
when you drive through the green forests, you know for sure that something special is going to happen. Sintra was listed as World heritage place in 1995 and we can estate that it fits perfectly with its wonderful architecture. The amount of palaces and castles is numerous for a small town but there are at least two that you do not miss out: Palacio da Pena, the most captivated and famous for its colours and Quinta da Regaleira with is dreamy garden. You can see here an initiation pit, with more than 25 metres of depth and 9 floors, like the 9 levels of the world famous book The Divine Comedy. You cannot leave Sintra without eating the queijadas, the local sweet treat!
Évora and Alentejo:
just a few kilometers away from the Spanish border, we find this special and richful region. At the first glance we find the aqueduct of Amoreira, in Elvas. Our next stop is in a very short distance.
Its beautiful cobblestone streets connect perfectly with the white color of the facades, the typical way of finishing it to avoid the hot temperatures. Besides, Its gastronomy is one of the richests of the country and it’s the perfect couple with its outstanding wines.
Coimbra, the university city:
this town, located in the middle of Portugal, in a marvellous option to spend a couple of days. While the classes are running, from September to May, the streets are full of students that brings tons of joy to the city and may be you will be lucky enough to see one with the traditional costume. No one should miss it the Joanine library, inside the main building.
The Algarve:
it’s not a secret that the local beaches in this area are the best in Europe, but, among all you can find it, you can select according to your preferences. For instance, La Gale fits perfect for those who look for something different. Sagres is your place if you want to meet a mystery place in the XV Century. If you want to enjoy the classical view, go to Albufeira! There are so many options in a short distance, so, it’s also perfect for a road trip.
Guimaraes:
if you are keen on history, you should add this city to your Portuguese trip, why? Not far from Oporto, you can find this jewel, full of legends. The most remarkable one is that is it said that Portugal was born in this town and that is why the first king was born here. It is also a beautiful places to discover!
Portugal is an excellent country to cross from North to South and that is why we arrange the best experiences there with Marly Olé: wine tastings, local food and walk through the finest architecture are a few examples that Portugal offers, choose yours!
