The Top Tourist Attractions in Portugal
Portugal is a tiny country that lies on to the Atlantic coastline in the Iberian Peninsula. Due to its stunning coastline and rich history, Portugal is among the most visited nations across Europe. Its size is smaller, which allows it to move around and explore more areas than, say, the neighboring Spain within the same time.
The warm climate makes it a perfect year-round tourist destination, and visitors can visit Roman or Moorish ruins, as well as other tourist sites throughout Portugal. Here are the top tourist attractions that you should not miss when visiting Portugal.
Cais da Ribeira

Cais da Ribeira is a charming and picturesque area located in Porto and is sometimes called “the heart of porto” or “the soul of Porto.” It’s comprised of streets from the medieval period that lead to an area near the Douro River. Medieval structures are dotted with cafes, bars, and restaurants that make Ribeira an ideal spot for drinking and eating.
Ribeira is particularly popular during celebration days, when people flock there to watch fireworks. A bronze cube is located in the center of the square. Nearby is the home in which Prince Henry the Navigator was born in 1394.
Capela dos Ossos

The Capela dos Ossos could appear to be straight from an old Halloween film but actually it was a straightforward solution offered by the 16th century monks regarding how to deal with the overflowing cemetery that was taking the space of Evora.
The remains of the deceased were moved into a specific chapel, named Bone Chapel, where the bones are displayed in the interior in the church. This chapel belongs to the Gothic Church of St. Francis. It is estimated that five thousand skulls decorate the ceiling and walls of the chapel.
Belem Tower

Belem Tower, also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, is located on what was an island on the Tagus River in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. It was built in 1515. the tower’s grandeur was created in order to protect Lisbon against intruders and also to welcome the city’s visitors.
Built during the Age of Discovery, the four-story limestone tower is topped by an attached bastion and had room for 17 cannons, which could shoot long-range shots. The statue depicting Our Lady of Homecoming and Safe, built to guard sailors during their journeys, is situated on the river.
Obidos Castle

Obidos Castle is a magnificent structure situated on the top of a hill in Obidos which is a city of just a few hundred inhabitants which has been in existence since Roman times along the Portugal’s Atlantic coast. The Moors built the castle around the 8th century.
The castle was renovated in the 14th century and was reconstructed with a keep. The castle is now home to the luxury hotel Pousada. The traditional market for medieval goods is held in the castle each July.
University of Coimbra

The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest and longest-running universities in Europe founded in 1290. It is also one of the biggest universities in Portugal that has around 220,000 students. There are numerous areas of significance within the complex of the university.
The library was built in the 18th century under the direction from King Joao V. The Library Biblioteca Joanina is a fine instance of Baroque architecture. Its Sala dos Capelos, the original throne room where doctoral degrees are conferred.
Pena National Palace

Pena National Palace seems like an enchanting castle when it stands high above clouds during overcast days. It is situated on the hill of Sintra. It is visible in Lisbon in a clear day.
The structure was created through the reign of King Ferdinand II and his son, it is a stunning instance of 19th-century Romanticism that is not just found in Portugal but all over the world since it incorporates Moorish as well as Manueline style of architecture. It was originally an altar to Our Lady of Pena during the Middle Ages and is utilized for formal occasions.
Sao Jorge Castle

Sao Jorge Castle is one of the most popular tourist places within Lisbon since it is accessible everywhere in the city. It was built in Roman times, although the Moors built fortifications on the castle around the time of the 10th century. The castle was liberated of Moorish control in the year 1147, during the Battle of Lisbon during the Second Crusade.
Sao Jorge Castle later became the palace of King Alfonso III. The castle was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. Today, the castle has walls and 18 towers which tourists can climb.
Praia da Marinha

Praia da Marinha is considered to be one of the most stunning beaches of Portugal. It is situated in the Atlantic coast region of the Algarve. Praia da Marinha is surrounded by stunning turquoise waters along one side and sandy beaches, as well as high cliffs along the land side.
It is also known by the name of Navy Beach. Its tiny cove often featured in travel guides. The clear water of the beach makes it an ideal spot to snorkel. The beach is 30 minutes away from Albuferia and parking is free.