_edited.jpg)
LISBON
situated at the mouth the Tagus River, Lisbon is the capital From Portugal. It is connected to the other margin of Block by two bridges : the April 25 , in the southern part, inaugurated on August 6, 1966 and Vasco da Gama inaugurated in May 1998, which connects the northeast of the capital to the city of Montijo. It communicates with the outside through the Portela airport , the largest in Portugal located 7 kilometers from the center in the northeast of the city.
How to get around the city
The city has an urban and suburban rail network with 8 lines (4 of which are subway and 4 of suburban train ) and 118 stations (48 metropolitan and 70 train suburban). The main train stations are Oriente Station , Cais do Sodré and Saint Apollonia . The operation of the buses is in charge of the company Carris .
How to get around the city
Old tram : it also maintains 5 tram lines, testimony to a network that was much broader. Four of these are operated with old-looking vehicles, but new, which is a tourist attraction. Line 15 (which connects La Plaza de Figueira with Algés) uses modern multi-car trains with low floors.
What to see in Lisbon
Bethlehem neighborhood
Next to the historic center of Lisbon, the other great monumental area of the city is the Belém neighborhood - located in front of the Tagus River, to the west of the city - with emblematic buildings of Manueline architecture.
The tourist interest of Belém is centered on four places that are A must-see on any tourist route in Lisbon : the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoverers and the factory Pastries from Belém . The two furthest away -the Pastry Factory and the Belém Tower- are separated by approximately one kilometer of gardens and a pleasant walk in front of the Tagus.
It is an old monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome and located in the neighborhood of Belen.
designed in style Manueline by the architect Juan de Castillo , was commissioned by the king Manuel I of Portugal to commemorate India's fortunate return from Vasco de Gama .
Military construction that guarded the entrance of the Tagus. Before it was in the center of the river but now it is on one side . When it ceased to serve as a defense against invaders in the estuary of the river Block it was used as a prison, as a lighthouse and also as a tax collection center to enter the city.
It is another of the places that we cannot miss to see savor the famous cakes they are consumed in a large cafeteria-pastry shop with Portuguese sweets, such as tarts and breads located in R. de Belém 8.
Alfama neighborhood
It is a delightful labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets and old houses that climb the steep slope that separates the Tagus Estuary from Castelo de São Jorge. It was located outside the city walls and was a district associated with poverty and scarcity, where only the poorest and most unprotected lived. today has turned in a craft and fashion district, yet without losing its unique charm rich in tradition . Its emblematic places are the Castle of São Jorge, the Lisbon Cathedral, the National Pantheon and the Church of Santo Antony.
Element featured from medieval architecture is located on the highest hill Alfama neighborhood who survived the Lisbon earthquake. Human occupation of the castle hill dates back to at least the 8th century BC, while the first built fortifications date back to the 1st century.
commonly called I know of Lisbon, it is the oldest and most important church in the city. The construction of the Lisbon Cathedral dates from XII century and its predominant style is Romanesque. Its full name is Santa Maria Maior.
It is an emblematic monument that welcomes and honors the great men and women to whom the country owes its recognition. A memory that perpetuates and symbolizes the highest posthumous honor granted in Portugal.
It is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to San Antonio de Lisboa. According to tradition, the church was built on the site where the saint was born, in 1195.
The church is classified as a National Monument.
Baixa District
It is the heart of Lisbon and is made up of magnificent squares, wide avenues and many of Lisbon's main tourist attractions, as well as an immense variety of restaurants, excellent hotels and the banks of the Tagus River. In it are most of the monuments, the Praca do Comércio, the Rossio, the Santa Justa Elevator , the Rua Augusta, the Arco do Rua Augusta and the Praça do Comércio, the traditional center of commerce in Lisbon.
Chiado neighborhood
Between the Baixa and the Bairro Alto is the most bohemian neighborhood in Lisbon, the Chiado.
It is an area full of cafes and shops, but also linked to the intellectual life of Lisbon, as it has several museums and places of cultural interest such as the Carmo Convent, the Chiado Museum and the Café a la Brasileira.
Currently, Chiado is one of the most important commercial areas of Lisbon.
Its ruins open to the sky are one of the best examples of the renovating character of Lisbon, it currently houses a small but essential Archaeological Museum.
The National Museum of Contemporary Art - Chiado Museum (on Portuguese , National Museum of Contemporary Art - Museu do Chiado) is an art museum opened in 1911. The museum's main collection is from paintings from 1850 - 1950.
This café, opened in 1905, is one of the oldest and most famous in Lisbon. It is located on Garrett Street.
There I know famous people sell cream cakes Portuguese and some caps.
Uptown
The Bairro Alto represents the alternative Lisbon and it is probably the best place in the city to listen to fados. there is many restaurants that vary from traditional taverns to more sophisticated places with more elaborate cuisine.
It is the most international Portuguese musical expression. The exact time of his birth is unknown. fado on Lisbon, although there is evidence that it emerged in humble neighborhoods towards the middle of the 19th century, specifically in the traditional Mouraria neighborhood.
Known as "Largo do Camões", In the center is a bronze statue of the poet Luís de Camões, inaugurated in 1867, surrounded by eight smaller statues representing other personalities of Portuguese literature.
The place where the night is complemented after some beers and tapas in Uptown. It has become in the last decade a place of forced passage and, in recent years, in the key place where to locate your base of operations in the city.
Gastronomy
Among the most requested specialties are: roast suckling pig, fish and shellfish from the Atlantic coast, delicious cheeses and powerful stews from the mountain areas, together with pastries and confectionery, which deserve a special section. Among the most important:
The cod "bacalhau" is the star ingredient in Portugal, it is cooked in a huge variety of dishes: grilled, in sauce, in croquettes, creams. The "bacalhau pastéis" are salted cod croquettes that can be eaten hot or cold. The "bacalhau à gomes de sá" is a salted cod with a layer of potato and onion that is usually accompanied by a garnish of egg and olives.
pork à alentejo that combines pork and clams with paprika, potato and cilantro. It is one of the most traditional pork dishes in Portuguese cuisine. As its name indicates, it is a typical Alentejo recipe.
Pork meat is the most consumed in Portugal, so we can also talk about spit-roasted suckling pig (leitao), black leg pork (porco preto), pig trotters with pilantros (pezinhos de coentrada), and also pork sausages such as chouriço or mourcela (spiced, salted or smoked), the alheira (more typical of the northern region of Portugal)...
The "favas à portuguesa" is a typical dish that we find in Lisbon and that combines tender broad beans with black pudding and chopped pork ribs.
"Frango a piri-piri" is the barbecue chicken with chili that comes from the former Portuguese colonies in Africa-Feijoada.
the portuguese cheeses Goat and sheep milk cheeses are exceptional, and there are many varieties, from the softest (fresh cheeses) to cured ones with spicy touches. The most famous is the buttery "serra", "Queijo da Serra", made with sheep's milk. Other varieties are the Saloio, Palhais, Alavao or the fresh quejo.
rice with octopus a rice accompanied by the traditional green wine.
The "fish and shellfish cataplana" It is a steamed stew of assorted crustaceans.
The "grilled sardines" fresh in charcoal, a simple and traditional dish also on the Spanish coast.
As for the sweets:
The famous pastéis de Belém , made since 1837 in Belém , a must if we travel to Lisbon, as I mentioned above; the Complaints of Sintra cheese tartlets with cinnamon whose origin is in neighboring Sintra and he honey cakes from Alentejo .
some beaches
Lisbon is a city without sea, although thanks to the Tagus it is surrounded by water on all sides. But we can take a cold swim in the Atlantic without going too far away.
Towards the north of the Tagus taking the regular train service in Cais do Sodré in the direction of Cascais, we can get off at the stop of each of the beaches, being that the total journey to Cascais is less than 1 hour or following the line of the Marginal -road that borders the coast- until reaching Cascais and Estoril. Although this route suffers from considerable traffic jams at rush hour and especially in summer, the views that we enjoy during the trip deserve a little patience.
They are connected by a walk maritime by the It's nice to walk in summer, moving in just half an hour from one town to another. In this tour we will see the most famous beaches of Cascais, such as Praia da Rainha, Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa, which are in a row.
The largest and the most crowded during the summer.
It has numerous services: rental of sun loungers, lifeguards, restrooms, various restaurants and rental of surf and windsurf boards and equipment. At one of its ends is the Forte São Julião da Barra, next to the mouth of the Tagus in the Atlantic.
It is located 5 kilometers from Cascais. It has strong waves and large gusts of wind that make it perfect for lovers of surf and of windsurfing, and although it is not highly recommended for swimming, its wild beauty deserves a walk to enjoy its views (yes, well sheltered from the wind).
Beach more frequented by the Portuguese themselves than by foreign tourists. It is about 30 kilometers of long beaches of fine sand, which begin in the town of Caparica and where we find bars distributed every certain distance.
Book the best Tours and Walks in Lisbon
It is the most important city in Portugal, after Lisbon. It is an ancient city with a vast historical heritage, although it has undergone extensive modernisation in recent decades. It is known for its bridges over the Douro River and also for its famous wine. It is small and charming, can easily be explored in a weekend and is also on a par with Lisbon.
Oporto (Porto)
How to get there from the airport
Porto Airport is 14km north of the city and connected to the city by the metro network (with departures every 20 minutes, 07h00-23h00, €1.85 for a single ticket). A taxi transfer will cost you around €20-30, including a luggage surcharge. Porto Airport is a large international airport offering flights to all of Europe, including services from many of the low-cost airlines (EasyJet, Ryanair, Vueling and Wizz Air).
Getting around the city
Metro: Using the metro, you can get to many places, even on the outskirts of the city.
The price of each trip is defined according to the number of zones you have to cross to get to your destination.
Tram: It is still possible to get around Porto on the old tram.
Three routes are still running, two that move around the city centre and one that takes you from the Church of San Nicolau (next to the Church of San Francisco) to the start of the Foz, the most beautiful promenade along the river.
You can buy a 24-hour ticket for €8 (children €5). Or you can buy a visitor ticket that includes the tourist tram, the hop-on hop-off tourist bus and the Funicular.
Buses: A large network that could work more efficiently. However, you may want to consider this way of getting around Porto if you don't have metro stations nearby. They often operate with delays.
Taxis: As anywhere in the world, you can hail a taxi on the street by raising your hand. I recommend calling a taxi to your location or walking to a taxi stand, called a taxi stand in these parts. I recommend buying the Porto Card, which is a tourist card for Porto, with or without transportation included, which includes free or discounted entry to most museums and places of interest.
Enviar comentarios
Paneles laterales
Historial
Guardado
What to see in Porto
Church and Tower of the Clerigos
It is the best viewing point in Porto, from where you will have panoramic views of the historic city centre. Although to enjoy them you will have to climb more than 240 steps. In the Baroque style it was built on the "hill of the hanged", which was where the executions were carried out and as a curiosity we will tell you that its 74 meters high are always a good reference to not get lost in the city.
The Ribeira
One of the best places to visit in Porto. A walk at dusk or at night along the banks of the Douro between the Dom Luis I Bridge and the Arrábida Bridge is one of the must-sees in Porto. It is one of the most famous and popular places in the city, with its beautiful coloured facades and terraces full of people to eat a good cod or drink a good wine with views of the Douro and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Porto Cathedral (the Sé)
The Sé or Porto Cathedral from the 12th century is one of the oldest buildings and the most important in religious matters, which stands out for its beautiful cloister decorated with 14th-century tiles. From here you can access the Casa do Cabildo, where religious objects considered to be "the treasure of the cathedral" are displayed.
Bolhao Market
Located in the centre of Porto, it is a beauty that, being from the beginning of the 19th century, gives it a special charm that is difficult to forget. In the market you will find all kinds of stalls to eat and sell quality products, from fruit, meat, vegetables, fish (especially cod), to flowers.
Vila Nova de Gaia
The wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia are another of the essential places to visit in Porto. Vila Nova de Gaia is really a different city, although to visit it you only have to cross a bridge. Walking along the river you will find some wine cellars where you can learn about the process of making wine with origins in Porto.
Rua Santa Catarina
The pedestrian street of Santa Catarina is the shopping street par excellence of downtown Porto. Stroll up and down it from Praça do Marquês de Pombal to the modernist Majestic café, the most famous in the city,
San Bento Station
One of the best ways to get to Porto is by train, especially for its spectacular San Bento Station. This early 20th-century station stands out for its fantastic tile murals. Even if you don't plan to take the train, this place is worth a visit, especially at sunset when the sun makes its more than 20,000 tiles shine.
Barrio Do Barredo
This run-down neighbourhood, situated between the Cathedral and the banks of the Douro, is full of narrow streets and stairs, buildings that look like they are going to fall down and balconies with clothes hanging out to dry. Its melancholic air, its smells and colours will take you back in time and discover special corners that are not mentioned in the guidebooks.
Dom Luis I Bridge
The Dom Luis I Bridge, opened in 1886, is one of the symbols of the city. This metal bridge with a large iron arch is made up of two floors, with the upper one for the metro and the lower one for cars. The bridge can be crossed on foot on both floors. I recommend crossing the bridge on the upper floor at dusk and watching the sunset over Porto and the Douro from the central part of the bridge.
Lello e Irmão Bookstore
Lello e Irmão is one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world and one of the must-see places in Porto. A source of inspiration for writers such as J. K. Rowling, who set some scenes in the successful Harry Potter series, this two-storey bookshop, over 100 years old, stands out for its impressive staircase and its modernist and neo-Gothic details.
Chapel of Souls
The Chapel of Souls or Chapel of Saint Catherine is a chapel located in the parish of San Ildefonso. It has its origins in an old chapel made of wood erected in praise of Saint Catherine and unmistakable for its striking facade of white and blue tiles. It was built during the 18th century and is in neoclassical style.
Gastronomy of Porto
The star dish in Porto, as in all of Portugal, is cod, which is cooked in hundreds of different ways (they say there is a way to cook it for every day of the year). Tripas a modo do Porto, similar to a fabada with tripe, is another typical dish, as is the famous francesinha, a “very wild” sandwich.
Soups with a wide variety of ingredients are very popular, and the best thing to do is to order the soup of the day, which is usually made with vegetables and is very well priced (less than 2 euros). Pastry is one of the Portuguese traditions, and they make all kinds of sweets, especially natas, a creamy pastry very similar to the pasteis de Belem in Lisbon.
To drink, you can try Porto wines, famous throughout the world and ideal to accompany some desserts, strong cheeses or simply as an aperitif.
Oporto beaches
Beaches in Foz do Douro
If you want to spend a day at the beach without going too far from Porto and you are also travelling without your own car, the best option is to go to Foz de Douro by bus or tram.
It is one of the most exclusive places in the city; it has a great nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs to go out at night and good restaurants spread out along Avenida Brasil, the main artery of the area.
Castelo do Queijo
In Foz de Douro you will find the pleasant Porto seafront, the famous Castelo do Queijo (a small fort on the Atlantic coast whose official name is Forte São Francisco Xavier), the Castelo de São João Batista and some of the most beautiful beaches in Porto,
Matonsinhos Beaches
It can be reached by the Porto metro. It has several beaches within the so-called Green Coast. It has clean sand and has sun loungers, lifeguards, toilets and showers. It is very windy, being sought after by water sports lovers, which makes it the best beach in Porto for surfing and windsurfing.
Natural pools
These are pools integrated into the landscape of Leça de Palmeira beach in Matosinhos that were designed fifty years ago, but their appearance is still modern and fully integrated with the ocean environment. Their most characteristic element is the concrete walls and dark wood, which merge with the natural rock itself to give shape to the pools. They also have bathrooms, changing rooms and a cafeteria.
Beaches of Póvoa de Varzim
Póvoa de Varzim is a town integrated into the metropolitan area of Porto thanks to the metro (line B), so getting there from there is quite simple.
The beaches of Póvoa de Varzim are very long and quiet, almost all of white sand, frequented by both locals and tourists.
Book the best Tours and Walks in Porto
Sintra
Sintra is a resort town at the foot of the Sintra Mountains just 40 km away from Lisbon. The best way to get there is by train, which leaves from Rossio station and takes about 40 minutes. For a long time it was a royal sanctuary, its wooded land is dotted with farms and palaces in pastel colours. It gains importance in the national context, as it is the second most populous municipality in Portugal after the capital and the town with the most inhabitants, followed by Cascais and Oeiras. It is notable for the presence of its romantic architecture, resulting in its classification as a Cultural Landscape of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pena National Palace
Popularly known as Pena Palace or Castelo da Pena, it is located in the village of Sintra on top of the steep hill (480 m) and requires a walk uphill of almost 50 minutes from the train station. It is known for its extravagant design and stunning views and represents one of the main expressions of 19th century architectural romanticism in the world. It was classified as a National Monument in 1910 and is part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1995. On July 7, 2007 it was chosen as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
Sintra Castle
Popularly known as Castelo dos Mouros is a ruined castle set amongst the lush forests of the Serra de Sintra. It is a popular attraction open for tourist visits; in 2013 it had over 750,000 visitors, making it the most visited monumental palace in the country that year. This Moorish castle was built during the 19th century by the North African Moors to protect the town of Sintra, but was abandoned after the Christian conquest in Portugal.
Regaleira Palace
It is the main building and the most common name of the palace of the Quinta da Regaleira. It is also called Monteiro dos Milhões Palace, a name associated with the nickname of its first owner who was distinguished by King Dom Carlos I on August 16, 1904 as Baron of Almeida. It is a stately home from the beginning of the 20th century, whose towers overlook the lush park that has caves and tunnels covered with moss. It is located on the side of a hill, a short distance from the Historic Center of Sintra and is classified as a Property of Public Interest since 2002. It is part of the cultural landscape of Sintra, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995.
Book the best Tours and Walks in Sintra
Coimbra
Coimbra is a riverside city in central Portugal and the former capital of the country, 175 km from Lisbon. It is located in the province of Beira Litoral, Centro Region. It is considered one of the most important Portuguese cities, due to the infrastructure, organizations and companies installed there, in addition to its historical importance and its privileged geographical position in the center of continental Portugal, between the cities of Lisbon and Porto.
University of Coimbra
It is, quite simply, one of the oldest in the world and the oldest in Portugal built on the site of a former palace. The historic campus of the University of Coimbra is a World Heritage Site. It is famous for its baroque library, the Joanine Library and its 18th-century bell tower. It is one of the oldest in Europe and one of the largest in Portugal, founded in 1290. The aforementioned beautiful Rococo-style Joanine Library was built in the 18th century. It is considered one of the most beautiful in its style and as a curious note that may interest families with children: the beast's library in Disney's latest Beauty and the Beast movie (2017) was inspired by the Joanine Library in Coimbra
Old Cathedral
Looking like a castle, Coimbra's old cathedral survives relatively intact to this day, although its construction began in 1139, by Afonso Henriques, declaring himself king of Portugal and choosing the city of Coimbra as his capital. It is the finest example of Romanesque architecture to be found in Portugal. Dating back to the early 12th century, it was built as a declaration of the new nation's triumph over the Moors at the Battle of Ourique. Unlike many of Portugal's great early buildings, much of the original Romanesque design remains intact, although there are many later embellishments.
Church of Santa Cruz
On Praça 8 de Maio, there is the church of Santa Cruz, also one of the oldest in Portugal. Founded in 1131 by the canons of St. Augustine, the current building dates back to the 16th century and is a rich example of the early Manueline style. Originally the monastery would have been a fairly simple Romanesque structure, although the order accumulated considerable wealth and influence. Inside, there are the mausoleums of the first two kings of Portugal. This church is also beautiful inside, with a beautiful tile panel, a large organ and many details on the altar.
Monastery of Santa Clara a Velha
It is a Gothic style church. It recently underwent a 20-year renovation, and is now open to visitors with its pieces and archaeological finds displayed in a museum. It is located on the left bank of the Mondego River, in the parish of Santa Clara. It was built in 1314 by order of Queen Isabel of Aragon (the Holy Queen) and it was there that her body was laid to rest before the church was flooded in the 17th century.
Book the best Tours and Walks in Coimbra
Braga
Braga is a city in the far north of Portugal, 46 km northeast of Porto and 318 km from Lisbon. It is known for its heritage and religious events and is the third largest city in Portugal. It is known for being a young and traditional city, full of places to visit and is characterized by its beautiful and quiet squares, numerous old alleys closed to traffic and a great variety of monumental baroque churches that recall the picturesque religious customs of the local population.
Braga Cathedral
It is located in the parish of Sé and is the seat of the bishopric, being the oldest religious temple in Portugal. Its construction began in 1070 and its construction lasted a century. This temple presents a beautiful set of architectural styles, among which you can appreciate the Romanesque in its structure or the Baroque in its magnificent ornaments. The Romanesque is the most interesting and is what can be seen in the shape of the cathedral, as well as in the south entrance and in the west door, where there is a carving with representations of a medieval legend known as the Renar Fox.
Church of Pópulo
It is part of the Convento do Pópulo where the image of the Virgin of the Church of Santa Maria do Pópulo is venerated. The construction of this complex began in the 16th century and ended in the 19th century. The invocation comes from the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo in Rome and, more precisely, from the image of the icon that, as mentioned, is venerated there.
Biscainhos Palace
This is a 16th century aristocratic palace where there is an interesting ethnographic and artistic museum. This magnificent palace is located in the city centre. It was built in the 17th century, but over the centuries it has been remodelled and modified. In 1949 the palace was classified as a property of public interest. Its museum has a beautiful collection of Roman relics, furniture and ceramics originating between the 17th and 19th centuries.
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte
Also known as the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Braga, it is located in the parish of Tenões near the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Sameiro.
This Catholic sanctuary is an architectural-landscape complex comprising a church, a staircase where the Via Sacra do Bom Jesus runs, a forest area (Parque do Bom Jesus), some hotels and a funicular (Bom Jesus Elevator). It was elevated to a minor basilica on July 5, 2015.
Book the best Tours and Walks in Braga
Setúbal Peninsula
Setúbal
This city is located 50 km southeast of Lisbon and linked by train and bus whose stations are in the center of Setúbal. Within the charming historic center there is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, hidden squares and family shops, as well as the largest fish market in Portugal. In the center of the city it is possible to see remains of different civilizations: Phoenician and Roman. It is there where some important tourist spots are located and where life happens in the city. Right in the center is the Praça de Bocage, in honor of a famous Portuguese poet. In addition to other tourist spots, such as the Convent of Jesus, the Church of São Julião, the House of Culture, among others. Near the center is the important Avenida Luísa Todi, where most of the shops, stores and restaurants in Setúbal are located. The avenue is named after an important opera singer of the 18th century.
Livramento Market
The Livramento Market is a must-see tourist spot in the city of Setúbal, as it is a very famous market in the region. It has been operating since 1930 and is covered with tiles, which adds even more charm and interest to the place. In the market there are several outlets selling food, vegetables, fruits, grains, among others. The main specialty is its large section of fish and seafood which are very fresh, as they are the catch of the night before, and a good part of it is served cooked in one of the fish and seafood restaurants by the water.
Fortress of Sao Filipe
It stands high above the city of Setúbal and its main attraction is the spectacular views of Setúbal that can be admired from it. It was built following an irregular star-shaped plan, with walls prepared to withstand heavy bombardment from the sea. Its construction began in 1582, by Filipe I, with the aim of this castle being to prevent attacks from the English and protect the Portuguese coast from European and African pirates. Closed since 2014, in 2017 the Castle of São Filipe was reopened for visits.
Arrábida Mountain Range
It has an area of approximately 10,500 hectares. In this mountain range you will find varied and incredible vegetation, many beaches, caves, castles and charming landscapes. The Arrábida Natural Park is next to the sea and stands out for its incomparable beauty, with the blue of the sea contrasting with the limestone cliffs and the green vegetation that covers the Serra. In addition to the Serra da Arrábida, the Park has other mountains, such as the Serra de Risco, which is the highest point on the Portuguese continent.
Cabo Espichel
To the west, we find ourselves at the end of this strip of land with Cabo Espichel and its beautiful cliffs located at the southwestern end of the Setúbal Peninsula. This is an exposed coast, subject to strong winds and large waves, which is ideal for those visitors who are attracted by the wild beauty of nature.
Sado Estuary
A place further away from the city of Setúbal is the Sado Estuary, that is, a reserve around the Sado River full of flora and fauna. The river is born at the top of a mountain range and travels 180 km until it ends in the Atlantic Ocean, near Setúbal. Among the fauna you can find flamingos, storks and dolphins. It is an interesting space to get to know and get in touch with nature. It is also possible to do some activities, such as boat trips, horse riding and canoeing.
Troia
Tróia is a peninsula that is located in front of Setúbal, and to get there you have to take a ferry. On the other hand, you will have the beaches of Troia, with clear and very calm waters, which is one of the most beautiful coasts in Portugal, with a 13 km stretch of clean sand, crystal-clear waters and sand dunes covered with pine forests. However, there are not only beaches on the peninsula. There are also restaurants, a casino, Roman ruins and many hotels. This low sandbank separates the Sado estuary from the Atlantic Ocean and is made up of pristine beaches and exclusive resorts for the wealthiest.
The Roman ruins of Tróia
It is an archaeological site located on the left bank of the Sado River, on the north-west side of the Troia peninsula in a strip of almost two kilometres. This Roman fish salting settlement (Cetobriga) still maintains a certain number of buildings and testimonies. The industrial facility consists of a large set of salting tanks (cetaria) for fish and shellfish, of different sizes, grouped in independent nuclei, which were intended for the production of garum (a famous condiment in Roman times).
Sesimbra
A coastal tourist town in the Serra de Arrábida area, less than 40 kilometres from Lisbon, just over half an hour by car and with only two direct bus lines from the company Transportes Sul do Tejo. It is also 30 km from Setúbal. It is a popular holiday destination with wonderful beaches, excellent restaurants and a very sociable holiday atmosphere, with historical value, which has Roman remains and is important in the reconquest of Portugal. It is a traditional fishing town, although its tourist boom means that this charming town character is beginning to be slightly distorted.
Sesimbra Castle
It was built by North African Arabs in the 8th-9th centuries to protect the Sado estuary. It is located on one of the hills, so from there you can enjoy wonderful views of the city. It has been fully restored and its entrance is free, but to get there you have to climb almost 30 minutes from the city. Nearby you can enjoy the Fortress of Santiago, the Matriz Church and the Misericordia.
Beaches of Sesimbra and Setúbal
This whole area has some of the best beaches in Portugal, being a very beautiful region, with a very diverse coastline, which gives opportunity to various types of vegetation, ecosystems and landscapes. As it is further south of Lisbon, the climate also warms up a bit, being a perfect area to spend weekends or summer holidays. The beaches are beautiful and have many services, being prepared to receive the various tourists who seek them out every year. On the Troia Peninsula we find Beach Troia Mar, Troia Peninsula and Troia Galera Beach.
From the city of Setúbal towards Sesimbra, among the best known are Figueirinha, Galapos, Praia do Creiro, Galapinhos and the idyllic beaches of the Serra da Arrábida, known as the Portinho da Arrábida. These beaches are very picturesque, with their crystal-clear waters, soft golden sands and the spectacular background of the Serra da Arrabida mountains.
Near Sesimbra on the eastern end is Praia da Califórnia and on the western end is Praia do Ouro.
This is a wonderful stretch of sand protected from the wind and big waves, making it perfect for families and sun worshippers alike.
14km north of Sesimbra, 40km from Setúbal by road and 40km from Lisbon we find La Praia da Lagoa de Albufeira (Albufeira Lagoon Beach). Three minor rivers flow to the back of the beach and these rivers combined with the tidal currents have carved deep lagoons in the soft sands. These are three lagoons that extend over a kilometre from the beach and it is a popular spot for beginner kite or windsurfers as the flat water is an ideal area to practice while the fierce waves of the beach are perfect for surfing and bodyboarding.
Gastronomy
As in other regions of Portugal, the Setúbal peninsula has its own particular gastronomic charm, with the most famous dishes being seafood dishes, based on roasted, boiled or grilled fish. From sardines, shellfish, octopus, cuttlefish to the famous red mullet, which is seasoned with a sauce based on fish liver. Two of the flagship dishes are the “Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato” (clams with garlic, coriander and lemon) and the cataplanas (see in Algarve) made in the “cataplana” a kitchen instrument of Moorish origin.
For those with a sweet tooth, the region is famous for its Tortas de Azeitão.
Enviar comentarios
Paneles laterales
Historial
Guardado
Book the best Tours and Walks around the Setúbal Peninsula
Algarve
It is located in the south of Portugal on the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the most beautiful and fascinating regions of Portugal, full of natural and cultural attractions. ‘Algarve’ which in Arabic means ‘the land where the sun sets’ has 240 kilometers of coastline full of long and beautiful beaches, large stretches of sand with imposing cliffs. Being the southernmost region of Portugal, it is known for its Mediterranean beaches and golf resorts. The fishing villages of other times located on the low cliffs were transformed in the 1960s and now its central coast between Lagos and Faro is lined with villas, hotels, bars and restaurants becoming the reference point for beach tourism in southern Portugal. Its towns are very charming with an incredible cultural heritage with spectacular landscapes. The summers are long and warm and its climate is very pleasant throughout the year. Leaving Lisbon, the quickest way to get to the Algarve is by plane. Several low-cost airlines make this journey from various European countries with final destination in Faro, the capital of the Algarve. Between the various cities, the train or bus is very useful.
Cacella Velha
It is one of the great jewels of the Algarve. It is located in a natural setting on a hill from which you can see stunning views of the Ria Formosa and the Atlantic Ocean. Surrounded by wide dune systems and pine forests, it is one of those places in the Algarve that has managed to preserve its natural legacy, its architectural heritage and the essence of the Portuguese people to this day. It is a small town with no more than five cobbled streets whose most characteristic image are its white houses on one floor with doors and windows framed in blue tones and some of them decorated with beautiful flowers that remind us of its Arab past.
Pego do Inferno
This waterfall is the largest of a set of three waterfalls formed in limestone tufts in the Asseca stream in Santo Estêvão, just 7 km from Tavira. It is a natural pool with a waterfall included. The rock walls are full of vegetation, creating a small paradise to cool off in. Due to the drought and forest fires that have attacked the area in recent years, the place is officially closed and has no maintenance whatsoever, which has minimized the beauty of the place. Despite this, it is a place to visit and it is advisable to bring sneakers to walk 1.5 km from the parking lot.
Tavira
Tavira is a small town divided into two parts by the Gilao River. Historically it has been a fishing village with a very well preserved historic centre. It is a pleasure to walk through its cobbled streets and gaze at the tiled shops. 5 minutes from the city and crossing by ferry is the Ilha de Tavira where you can enjoy 11 kilometres of almost deserted beaches of fine white sand. The island has four beaches: Praia da Ilha de Tavira, Praia da Terra Estreita, Praia do Barril and Praia do Homem Nu.
Faro
The capital of the Algarve is a very quiet city. Unlike the rest of the Algarve, summer is the low season because university students go on vacation. The Algarve airport is in Faro, but most visitors pass by and go to other more well-known places such as Lagos or Albufeira. Its small historic center can be explored in a day and its streets display houses with white facades decorated with flowers. All the history of the city is found behind the ancient walls that date back to the 9th century and that form part of its wall. Known as Cidade Velha or Vila Adentro, the place houses an architectural complex that has a very different atmosphere to that of the main tourist destinations in this region of Portugal.
Praia da Falesia
If you are looking for tranquility, you will surely find it on this extensive 8-kilometer beach located east of the city of Albufeira where you can stay. You need a car to get there. It has the uniqueness of being backed by impressive cliffs in white tones and various ochres with beautiful and intriguing shapes. The landscape is completed by the typical pines of the area. From the top of the cliff you will have a good panoramic view of the sea before going down to the sand and where the light of the sunset has a more spectacular tone
Albufeira
Located 50 km from Faro, it was an important town during the time of Muslim rule and this can still be seen in its narrow streets lined with white buildings. This former fishing village has become a popular holiday destination, with good beaches, a nice historic centre offering a very lively nightlife and a nice promenade along the sea. Today, local fishermen use the modern marina, which is also a base for diving, dolphin watching and boat trips.
Praia da Marinha
This beach has been considered several times as one of the most beautiful in Europe with very clean greenish waters and surrounded by rocky cliffs that have been cut and transformed into a series of pinnacles, cracks and caves. But what makes it different are the two natural arches that the sea has created by eroding the rocks. It is located 8 km southeast of Lagoa where you can stay. Buses leave from there to the beach if you do not have a car. Another way is to access it on foot (about 5 kilometers) along the cliffs of Praia Vale Centeanes, near Carvoeiro, a city located approximately 9 km away.
Benagil Cave
The place is also known as Algar de Benagil or Algar do José Rodeira. It is a huge cave like a giant dome created by water erosion with a beach inside. It has several holes in the roof and its two access doors from the sea allow light to enter. It is about 60 meters from Bengail beach, but can only be reached from the sea. The easiest way is to book a boat trip from Portimão, it lasts 3 hours and you will have the opportunity to see the Algarve coast from another perspective.
Carvoeiro
Of all the towns in the Algarve, it is the one with the most privileged location, where you will find a fishing village that is pure charm. Part of the town is just above the cliff that protects Praia do Carvoeiro in a small bay that has crystal clear waters, colorful houses and you can take boat trips. It is a place with all the tourist facilities, but much more relaxed than other larger cities. There is a wooden walkway along the cliffs that connects the fort of Nossa Senhora da Encarnação with Algar Seco. It is 600 meters of a scenic walk with views of the sea. The end of the path is Algar Seco, another rock formation with tunnels and caves created by the sea.
Silves
Not all the towns to see in the Algarve are on the coast. Silves is a charming town that was the ancient capital of the Algarve during the area's rule by the Arabs (from 700 to 1200). That glorious past is still present thanks to the large red brick castle that watches over the town from the top of the hill. It was originally built in the 12th century, but is still standing thanks to restoration work. It can easily be explored in a few hours, which is why it is a very common day trip to do in the Algarve.
Da Rocha beach
It is without a doubt one of the most charming places in the Portuguese Algarve. It has about a kilometre of sand, a large structure with many bars, restaurants and even a casino nearby, and it is the destination of thousands of tourists every summer. The beach is quite large and there is usually not much swell. It is very easy to get to because you do not need to go down stairs and there are some accesses with ramps and a wooden walkway along the beach. If you are staying in Portimão you can get there on foot in about 30 minutes. One of the most visited places on the beach is a golden arch formed by two rocks through which you can see the sea disappearing into the horizon.
Portimão
It is one of the most important towns to see in the Algarve in terms of tourism. It is the centre of sun and beach tourism due to its proximity to Praia da Rocha. The city centre is located about 2 km from the sea. Its streets are all made of typical Portuguese stone with figures. Among the tourist attractions are the Jesuit Convent, the Portimão Town Hall building, the Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the Museum, which has archaeological collections and underwater discoveries and a beautiful garden, the 1st of December, with benches decorated with tiles depicting scenes from the history of Portugal.
Lagos
Located 90 km from Faro, it is closely linked to the Portuguese discoveries, as King D. Sebastião made it the capital of the Kingdom of the Algarve in 1573; in 1755 the capital returned to Faro. It is a well-connected city with some of the best beaches in the area very close by. It has a pretty historic centre with interesting monuments, surrounded by the old Moorish walls, cliffs and Atlantic beaches. Some steep wooden steps lead down to Praia do Camilo. The nearby cliffs of Ponta da Piedade offer stunning views of the headland and a lighthouse. The Church of Santo António, an ornate 18th-century church, stands opposite the Castelo dos Governadores, a castle with a baroque façade and towers.
Praia Dona Ana
It is located 1.8 km south of the center of Lagos and takes about 25 minutes to walk from the center, located between Praia do Pinhão and Praia do Camilo. The rocks that jut out into the sea create an unparalleled landscape. Being sheltered between rocks, it has very calm waters and is ideal for swimming without waves, with an idyllic turquoise color and soft, welcoming sand. It is also ideal for diving.
Ponta da Piedade
Located very close to the city of Lagos, it is a series of rock formations on the sea with tunnels and caves dug by water erosion. The cliffs have a beautiful golden hue that is accentuated by the light of the sunset. Right at the end of the cape there is a lighthouse to guide sailors. To get to the place you have to go down almost 200 steps from the access road, or, from the city of Lagos, get on one of the boats that make excursions around the cliff to see the incredible beauty of the caves and cliffs that surround Lagos.
Cape of St. Vincent in Sagres
It is the westernmost point of continental Europe, whose view from the cliffs, the breeze, the changes in temperature, the humidity, the sound of the sea breaking the waves make it very unique. It is located 30 km from Lagos. Being very exposed to having a lot of waves, it is common to see surfers there. Three kilometers from the cape is the town of Sagres, a very untouristy place compared to other parts of the Algarve given, as we mentioned, most visitors are surfers or nature lovers looking for a quiet place. Here you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Atlantic where hundreds of tourists come to enjoy it, being an experience that you cannot miss.
Gastronomy
In the Algarve you can enjoy fresh, tasty and also quite cheap dishes. Portugal is synonymous with bacalhau (you can try nata or bacalhau a bras) and the Algarve is no exception. You can also find grilled sardines, piri piri chicken, duck rice, fish cataplana and seafood broth rice.
Book the best Tours and Walks in Algarve