Southern Portugal: Nature, Sports, and Wild Landscapes

About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to! 

About Setubal

Tourism is based on the existing natural conditions plus excellent hotels and resorts. Also connected with the nearby coast of the Arrabida hills natural park - which offers an unspoiled nature and beautiful beaches to the Atlantic Ocean. A dolphin colony inhabits the Sado River. Across the river on the south bank lies the peninsula of Troia, a place with white beaches and several luxury hotels and resorts. The Troia peninsula is visible from the city, across the river. A main historical monument of the city of Setubal is the Monastery of Jesus, with a 15C church. The Castelo de Sao Filipe is a 16C fortress on the north bank of the Sado river. The fortress was converted into a luxury hotel.

Tourism is based on the existing natural conditions plus excellent hotels and resorts. Also connected with the nearby coast of the Arrabida hills natural park - which offers an unspoiled nature and beautiful beaches to the Atlantic Ocean. A dolphin colony inhabits the Sado River. Across the river on the south bank lies the peninsula of Troia, a place with white beaches and several luxury hotels and resorts. The Troia peninsula is visible from the city, across the river. A main historical monument of the city of Setubal is the Monastery of Jesus, with a 15C church. The Castelo de Sao Filipe is a 16C fortress on the north bank of the Sado river. The fortress was converted into a luxury hotel.

About Lagos

Lagos, a small seaside town, is located in the Algarve region on the banks of the Bensafrim River and bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Its charming Old Town is surrounded by a 16th century wall, and the town is home to steep limestone cliffs, traditional cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, colorful houses, and medieval churches. The town also boasts great restaurants and a nightlife scene, though more than subdued than that in nearby Albufeira.

Lagos, a small seaside town, is located in the Algarve region on the banks of the Bensafrim River and bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Its charming Old Town is surrounded by a 16th century wall, and the town is home to steep limestone cliffs, traditional cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, colorful houses, and medieval churches. The town also boasts great restaurants and a nightlife scene, though more than subdued than that in nearby Albufeira.

During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Lagos became the center of Portuguese maritime exploration. Henry the Navigator lived mainly in Lagos and directed the great journeys from the Lagos port. In the following decades, the port started to bustle with ships loaded with spices and other goods, and it also became infamous as the entry point for the first African slaves into post-medieval Europe. Slave markets thrived in Lagos, providing income for the monarchy and a cheap labor force. The former slave market today houses the center of the military administration. From the 16th to the18th centuries, Lagos served as the famous capital of the Algarve, but it was completely destroyed by the earthquake in 1755. Igreja de Santo Antonio is a beautiful and lavish church in the Old Town, and it is part of the town’s main museum, the Museu de Lagos. Beyond the town’s history, its golden beaches, abundant water sports, and relaxed atmosphere are a major draw for visitors as are the restaurants, bars, and clubs.

About Portimao

Portimao is a town and a municipality in the district of Faro, in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. It was formerly known as Vila Nova de Portimao. In 1924, it was incorporated as a cidade and became known merely as Portimao. Historically a fishing and shipbuilding centre, it has nonetheless developed into a strong tourist centre oriented along its beaches and southern coast. The two most populous towns in the Algarve are Portimao and Faro. Being located on the South coast of Portugal, Portimao is well known in the sailing world for being an ideal location for sailing on the Atlantic Ocean, boasting much calmer seas and weather conditions than the Western coastline.

Portimao is a town and a municipality in the district of Faro, in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. It was formerly known as Vila Nova de Portimao. In 1924, it was incorporated as a cidade and became known merely as Portimao. Historically a fishing and shipbuilding centre, it has nonetheless developed into a strong tourist centre oriented along its beaches and southern coast. The two most populous towns in the Algarve are Portimao and Faro. Being located on the South coast of Portugal, Portimao is well known in the sailing world for being an ideal location for sailing on the Atlantic Ocean, boasting much calmer seas and weather conditions than the Western coastline.

About Evora

Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region, is a beautiful town- a museum-city – with roots dating back to Roman times. Surrounded by 14th century walls and home to narrow, winding alleys, diverse and outstanding architecture, Roman antiquities, and a picturesque central square, it is one of the best preserved and oldest towns in Portugal and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evora is also a lively university city, full of bars and excellent restaurants. 

Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region, is a beautiful town- a museum-city – with roots dating back to Roman times. Surrounded by 14th century walls and home to narrow, winding alleys, diverse and outstanding architecture, Roman antiquities, and a picturesque central square, it is one of the best preserved and oldest towns in Portugal and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evora is also a lively university city, full of bars and excellent restaurants. 

The town’s golden age was between the 14th and 16th centuries when many educated people and artists settled there. It became the center of arts and learning as well as the seat of the archbishop, and the Jesuit University was founded there. When Spain took control of Portugal, the royal court left Evora, and the town lost much of its importance and cultural influence but much of its architecture still stands today. The heart of the city is Praca do Giraldo, named after the Christian knight “Fearless,” who, based on legend, stormed one of the watchtowers alone and conquered Evora from the Moors in the mid 12th century. In the center of the square is a famous Baroque fountain, declared a national monument, built in 1571 of white marble combined with bronze. It is decorated with 8 spouts shaped as lions with the number of spouts corresponding to the number of main streets connecting to the square, and there is a crown at the top. The square is surrounded by impressive historic buildings, cafes, and beautiful shops. Praca do Giraldo, which is beautifully illuminated after dark, is the center of Evora's nightlife. The Evora Cathedral, the Se, is a fortress-looking church dating back to the early 13th century which combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural features. It is one of the largest churches in Portugal and is adorned with two asymmetrical towers that were added later. The 12 statues of the Apostles, dating back to the 14th century, stand guard at the entrance, and there is a huge, magnificent chandelier inside. The Museum of Religious Art is housed in the connecting building, a Baroque style structure which had been home to the church’s choir boys. The museum displays rare and valuable artifacts, and there are spectacular views of the city from the top of the museum’s winding staircase. The 15th century Igreja do Sao Francisco is a huge Manueline- Gothic style structure. Connected to the church is the 16th century chapel, Capela Dos Ossos (Bone Chapel), whose interior designs are somewhat gruesome but fascinating – its walls are lined with 5000 skulls, bones, and skeletons of monks taken from a local cemetery. One of the highlights of the city – and its icon - is the relatively well-preserved Roman Temple, also known as the Temple to Diana. Thought to have been built in the 2nd or 3rd century, it is a granite base with 14 surviving columns and Corinthian capitals. The Evora Museum is housed in the former palace of the Archbishop of Evora which dates back to the 16th century. The interior is light and modern, and it displays the most diverse art collection in Portugal. The 14th century Palacio dos Duques de Cadaval, the Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval, is located at the foot of the old city wall. While it is still a private residence, there are several rooms which are open to the public and showcase valuable and fascinating family heirlooms. The Church of St. John the Evangelist, Igreja Sao Joao Evangelista, is decorated with beautiful Azulejo tiles which depict the life of the saint. Evora is an enchanting town, brimming with history, art, culture, and outstanding cuisine!

About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to!