Things to Explore on Trip for Portugal

Witness History in Lisbon As the capital and the largest city in Portugal, Lisbon boasts magnificent architectural works and historic landmarks at every corner. Take a walk through the iconic Belem neighborhood to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Belem Tower, an ode to the Age of Discovery. Visit the Jeronimos Monastery with its stunning Gothic and Renaissance features dating back to the 1500s. Don’t miss out on a ride on the Santa Justa Lift, an elaborate iron elevator that gives you panoramic city views. And enjoy the old-world charm of yellow trams rattling down narrow cobbled streets lined with art deco buildings covered in pretty tiles. Soak in the Sintra Beauty No trip to Portugal is complete without a visit to the picture-perfect town of Sintra. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra allures visitors with its gorgeous palaces and castles nestled amidst the Sintra Mountains. Wander around the romantic 19th century Pena Palace, one of Europe’s most colorful palaces surrounded by lush forests. Make your way to the top of the 8th century Moorish Castle ruins for sweeping views of the countryside dotted with pastel-hued villas. And enjoy getting lost in the whimsical labyrinthine alleys of the Quinta da Regaleira estate filled with intriguing tunnels, towers and underground lakes. Go Back in Time at Alfama District Alfama District in Lisbon transports you right back in time with its medieval alleys adorned with strings of colorful linens hanging outside wrought-iron balconies. Meander around the neighborhood’s postcard-perfect streets untouched for centuries to find hole-in-the-wall taverns for briny sardines and soulful Fado performances. Climb up the hill to explore the 11th century Moorish São Jorge Castle for picture-perfect views over terracotta roofs and pastel houses tumbling down the hillside to the blue Tagus River beyond. As night falls, join locals in downtown Alfama squares with guitar strumming late into the night. Be Enchanted by Porto With its dreamy waterfront district and Harry Potter-esque charm, Porto casts an enchanting spell on all its visitors. Take a stroll across the double-decker Dom Luís I Bridge for the most iconic views over the terracotta rooftops of the Ribeira neighborhood. Wander through lavishly-tiled São Bento railway station and get lost in the historic halls of the Palácio da Bolsa stock exchange. And for the ultimate Harry Potter experience, visit the bookshop Livraria Lello said to have inspired J. K. Rowling’s Flourish &Blotts! Be ready to be spellbound by Porto’s eccentric beauty.