Culture and Tourist Attractions in Portugal

There are many reasons why Europeans are flocking to Portugal for holidays and to become permanent residents.

Whether you seek the sun drenched beaches of the Silver Coast or the Algarve, local seafood from one of Portugal's many fishing villages or to indulge in the country's rich history, there truly is something for everyone.

With a wealth of heritage sites, museums, art and culture, you will never be short of things to do or see.

Below are some of Portugal's most popular tourist attractions.

Sample The Famous Port Wine of Porto

The city of Porto gave its name to both the country of Portugal and the country's most famous export- Port wine.

To truly experience port wine in all of its glory, you need to head to the city of Porto where it all began.

Not only is the wine exceptional, but there are also plenty of opportunities to take part in tasting tours of the local producers' wine cellars.

Enjoy the Rich History of Portugal

Portugal is a country with a rich history, a lot of which is still available to enjoy today in the form of historic sites, architecture and artefacts.

Portugal is home to several world famous monasteries including Fatima. The monastery is home to the ‘chapel of apparitions' where three children saw apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

Today, the site is marked by the Basílica de Fátima, where pilgrims come on the 13th of every month to honor the Virgin and her young visionaries, especially in May and October, when the apparitions originally began and ended.

Other historic sites that attract tourists include Belem Tower, Bussaco Battlefield, Castelo Dos Mouros and the Pena National Palace.

Relax on The Many Beaches of Portugal

If the sightseeing, dining and other activities ever gets too much, Portugal has an abundance of golden sandy beaches across the country that visitors and residents can enjoy. Whether they are immense stretches of sand as far as the eye can see, or little coves sheltered by rocks, each beach has its own dazzling and surprising beauty.

Portugal's temperature is warm all year round meaning that the many beaches can be enjoyed near enough all year round.

Along the West Coast of Portugal, the biggest waves can be found which is why Portugal is a popular destination for surfers, jet skiers and other fans of high octane water sports.

Experience Events and Festivals in Portugal

To truly immerse yourself in the rich culture of Portugal, you need to attend one of the country's many events and festivals that take place each year.

There are festivals and events across the country promoting art, film, food, religion, dance, literature and much more.

In January, the Algarve plays host to the Festa Das Chouricas (smoked Pork Festival). The festival is in honour of the Patron Saint of animals- St Luis.

This is one of the country's oldest and most famous festivals and is a must for any foodie.

World Class Golf in Portugal

Portugal is amongst the most popular destinations in the world for golf. There are some ninety courses throughout the country, of which 57 are 18-hole and 9 are 27-hole, with a range of layouts and major golfing challenges recognised by the most experienced golf professionals.

Some of the most sought after courses in the world are situated in the Algarve, Porto and Lisbon, making Portugal the perfect holiday destination or country to retire to for avid golfers.