Portugal has a long, storied, and proud history - but sometimes beautiful and paramount cities like Fatima or Castelo Branco get lost in the buzz of the bigger metropolitan areas. The towns and areas highlighted here bustle with activity, even if they do so under the radar. Sure, they may lack high rise buildings and energetic nightlife, but their history and prominent positions invite visitors to discover a host of important landmarks. These charming towns are every bit as important and vital as their more popular siblings, so take a chance on these often overlooked destinations.
Prehistoric Alentejo was a busy place - with Roman and Moorish invaders who introduced the what, olives, and vines that thrive to this day and leaving behind existing megaliths, dams and irrigation schemes, and huge estates called latifundios.
The historic mountain province of Beira Alta features some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, and served as a remote stronghold in Portugal`s fight against Roman invaders and later Spain. As a result, the small towns built magnificent castles which stand to this day!
The area north of the Tejo river, which divides the Ribatejo from its more famous sister the Alentejo, is anchored by Tomar and Santarem - historic cities for their connections to the Knights Templar. Several other beautiful villages line the river and are known largely for wine.
From Moorish and Gothic architecture to the Baroque and Renaissance artists who thrived here, the Silver Coast is rich in cultural art and historic architecture. Beyond its beaches you can explore the stunning monasteries and architectural masterpieces along Alcobaça and Batalha, the churches, century-old manor houses and fair castles.
Castilla y Leon and of Aragon in Central Spain offer historical treasures often overlooked by tourists. From masterpieces in Gothic architecture, to ancient universities & charming medieval quarters with typical plazas and narrow cobbled streets, take a look into a more traditional Spain!
Because of its pivotal position, Greece was a crossroad of civilizations and left its traces everywhere: from architecture and historic settlements, to food, customs, art, education and philosophy - Ancient Greece was a force to be reckoned with!
Rome is one of the most iconic and most traveled cities in Europe, with a long history to match. Offering a mixture of cultures from around the world, Rome has it all. Wander the cobblestone streets, discover museums and ruins, and take in all the great food and wine city has to offer.
Driving Time
Lisbon - Silver Coast Area: 1 hr. / 1hr. 30 mins. approx.
Silver Coast Area - Portugal: 1 hr. / 1 hr. 30 mins. approx.
Driving Time
Lisbon - Cascais: 35 mins. approx.
Cascais - Costa Azul Area: 45-55 mins. approx.
Costa Azul Area - Evora: 1 hr. 10 mins. approx.
Evora - Fatima: 2 hrs. approx.
Fatima - Nazare: 45 mins. approx.
Nazare - Coimbra: 1 hr. 15 mins. approx.
Coimbra - Porto: 1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Driving Time
Lisbon - Coimbra: 2 hrs. approx.
Coimbra - Costa Verde Area: 1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Costa Verde Area - Porto Airport: 30 mins. approx.
Driving Time
Porto - Coimbra: 1 hr. 15 mins. approx.
Coimbra - Fatima: 55 mins. approx.
Fatima - Lisbon: 1 hr. 25 mins. approx.
Driving Time
Lisbon - Coimbra: 1 hr. 15 mins. approx.
Coimbra - Silver Coast Area: 1 hr./1 hr. 20 mins. approx.
Silver Coast Area - Lisbon: 1 hr./1 hr. 30 mins. approx.
Driving Time
Lisbon - Fatima: 1 hr. 25 mins. approx.
Fatima - Porto: 1 hr. 50 mins. approx.
Driving Time
Porto - Coimbra: 1 hr. 15 mins. approx.
Coimbra - Fatima: 55 mins. approx.
Fatima - Lisbon: 1 hr. 25 mins. approx.
Portuguese wines regarded worldwide, and from the Douro River Valley to the historic Beira Alta and Alentejo regions, these famous wines can be found throughout many of the historic cities and areas often overlooked by the casual traveler!
Portugal has so many iconic sights, you might want a car to explore everything - from the major highways connecting large cities to the small, two-lane roads that traverse the countryside. Enjoy your trip and have fun experiencing scenic Portugal!
Lisbon was once one of Europe`s most underrated capitals, but with vibrancy and charm, the city has earned itself a well-deserved status as a power player among travelers. Nearby sunny shores beckon with a dizzying array of culture, activities, food, music, art, and relaxation. You simply can`t go wrong combining Lisbon and its surrounding coastlines!