Coimbra, the former Portuguese capital (in the 13th century), is one of the most picturesque cities in the country, located right between Porto and Lisbon in central Portugal.

Even if tourists usually focus on these two when visiting Portugal, Coimbra has so much to offer with its ancient university which is one of the oldest in Europe, rich history, and beautiful buildings. 

The Joanina Library is the undisputed star of the university. This stunning Baroque library is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Built in 1717, it houses more than 70,000 volumes, many of which are priceless.

The books are in excellent condition, not just because the building is a perfect vault but because of the colony of bats that live there, eating pests throughout the night.

The Bussaco Palace was one of the most luxurious royal retreats. Commissioned in 1888 by King Charles I of Portugal whose vision was to build a new Belem Tower (the Lisbon landmark) surrounded by a tranquil sea of green forest. The 250 acres of woodland was originally planted by Carmelite monks.

The Palace’s interior is truly unique and steeped in history, with antiques and fine paintings adorning the rooms. A truly historic hotel, Bussaco Palace has focused on retaining the charm and elegance of the early 20th century rather than offering certain modern conveniences that are often expected as standard (such as air conditioning in all rooms).

If you love historic spots, Gothic architecture, and beautiful gardens, Buçaco Palace will not disappoint you.

Lamego, located approximately 90 minutes’ drive east of Porto, has a lot to offer, despite its relatively small size. At the heart of this Douro region town is the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. 

For the best experience, start at the bottom so you can wonder in amazement at how you’ll ever climb the 600 stairs, and then celebrate with a beautiful view once you get there.

Don’t worry if you can’t climb the stairs. The 18th-century church at the top can also be accessed via road.

Take the time to enjoy a local delicacy called presunto accompanied by a glass of local sparkling wine. For a great tasting plate, head to A Presunteca de Lamego. You’ll find this fantastic café and outdoor terrace at the bottom of the steps.

"Forget Ibiza. Forget the Riviera. In fact, forget the Med altogether. Portugal’s Alentejo region is lined with glorious beaches – but not many people seem to know about them.

To travel here is to step back in time 40 or 50 years. Life rolls along at a treacly pace; there’s an unnerving stillness to the landscape. But that stillness ends abruptly at the Atlantic Ocean, where there is drama in spades... The 100km of coastline from Porto Covo in the Alentejo to Burgau in the Algarve is the most stunning in Europe. And yet few people seem to know about it." ~ The Guardian

Obidos, a small town so beautiful, that in 1210 King Alfonso II gifted it to his queen, resulting in being nicknamed as ‘The Town of Queens’. 

Don’t miss out on visiting this little slice of Portuguese heaven, with its whitewashed cottages, painted walls, and colorful flowers. Climb the castle walls, visit one of the many stunning churches, sample ginja do chocolate, and shop for unique souvenirs.

Évora is arguably the most interesting place in Portugal. Only an hour outside of Lisbon— Evora has all the components of a dream city break, with beautiful architecture, endless history, and memorable cuisine.

Évora has a colorful and fascinating history—which allegedly goes back to Celtic times. Romans began inhabiting the city in the 2nd century BC, and many ruins—including the Temple of Diana—remain from this time. Since then, there have been many occupants, from the Moors to Portuguese royalty, who built palaces and convents in the 15th century that remain, leaving a mismatch of aesthetic styles that remain largely intact, even now.  

Tomar is a lovely town characterized by narrow-cobbled walkways, the mosaic-tiled squares, and a laid-back pace of life that’s typically experienced in Portugal. It’s easy to feel like you’ve traveled back through time while visiting this ancient town 

If you're a medieval history buff you are familiar with the Knights Templar. Tomar is the place for you! Tomar was a city planned for a branch of the Knights Templar, intended to serve as a home and headquarters. 

Even after the French king outlawed the Knights (and executed many) throughout most of Europe, the Templars remained powerful in Portugal, simply reorganizing themselves as the Military Order of Christ. It is believed the Order was partially responsible for funding Portugal's voyages during the Age of Discoveries.