Nestled along the Atlantic seaboard, Portugal has the oldest national frontiers in Europe. A country of Discoverers waiting to be discovered by you, with more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in Europe. The country harbors an amazing array of experiences and landscapes, complemented by a rich, authentic and seductive culture. Faithful to its national roots, reinvented at every moment.

From its South Western location, Portugal serves as a gateway to Europe for both America and Africa. Reaching out from the capital of Lisbon, Portugal enchants visitors with its gastronomy, gentle and regular climate and highly varied tourism attributes (for instance the country’s 850 km coastal rim), including some of the most romantic spots in the world – such as the River Douro or the islands of the Azores and Madeira.

Throughout its national territory, Portugal boasts a rich and diversified heritage, ranging from rupestrian art in the Côa Valley, to contemporary art in Sintra, Lisbon or Oporto, and including numerous World Heritage sites. The country has unique architectural features such as Manueline monuments, decorated azulejo tile façades and the works of distinguished national and international architects, including Álvaro Siza and Souto Moura. Vestiges of former civilizations are also abundant, including Romans, Moors and Jews – together with the influence of countries that were linked to the rest of the world by the Portuguese discoveries, such as India, Brazil or Japan.

Discover more at our official website www.visitportugal.pt or download the brochure Portugal - Europe's West Coast

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Lisbon, Portugal’s bright capital, spreads along the north bank of the River Tagus, which meets the ocean here. One of the few European capitals with both a river and a coastline, Lisbon has Praça do Comércio square as its main meeting area. The city has always been ready to welcome new visitors and to bid a fond farewell to those departing, something that was never more true than when saying goodbye to sailors at the time of the great Portuguese maritime discoveries.

This is why there are many important Manueline monuments shining in the light of Lisbon and its surrounding region, such as the Torre de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. The modern leisure area of the Parque das Nações proves that Lisbon still maintains its close links with the river today. Here, for example, you will find the distinctive mark of Álvaro Siza Vieira on one of the buildings that hosted the last world exposition of the 20th century, dedicated to the theme of the oceans. In contrast to this, do not miss the picturesque mediaeval quarters of Alfama and Mouraria, above which stands the castle. This castle, matched by Bairro Alto on the other hill, leads down to the downtown city centre known as the Baixa pombalina.

Lisbon is also at the centre of a region rich in diversity. Just outside the city are the seaside resort of Estoril and the romantic hills of the Serra de Sintra, where the perfect bond between palaces and nature led to the area being classified as a world heritage site. It is the sea, the climate and the stunning nature that give this region its peculiar energy. Its many parks and nature reserves encourage visitors to spend time in the open air, enjoying the peace and quiet of a round of golf or the adrenaline buzz of surfing. Perhaps this is why Lisbon is a city that is full of life. Here people have an exuberant party spirit, doing things spontaneously for the sheer pleasure of spending time in the company of others.

To end your day you could experience the traditional and relaxed atmosphere of a Fado House. Or, if you’ve still got enough energy left, pop into the various discos along the banks of the river and dance until the early hours. In fact why not stay up until dawn and take in the day-break on the banks of the River Tagus, before enjoying a well-earned sleep?

Check out our suggestions at: The best of the Lisboa region or at Lisboa past and present or download the following Brochures:

Lisbon. A very personal experience (I) - The Lisbon Region offers both contrast and harmony. Gastronomy, history, plural culture and diversity of the countryside all help to enrich your visit.

Lisbon. A very personal experience (II) - Lisbon is tradition, romance, culture, entertainment, modern life, excitement, food, history, nature and much, much more.

My Own Lisboa - In this tourist magazine for visitors to Lisbon, consult articles about the principal tourist attractions: places to visit, shows, events, monuments and museums, restaurants and shops etc. Also consult the proposed itineraries through the city’s historic neighborhoods.