Step back in time in majestic Portugal.
Once a world power in the 15th and 16th century, Portugal was reduced to rubble during an earthquake in 1755 and this ultimately led to its demise. In the days of Kings and Queens, power reigned supreme and sadly natural disaster provided opportunity. Napoleon invaded Portugal and the rest is history as they say.
Portugal shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain and borders the Atlantic Ocean on the west and south coast. Popular for its long coastline, sunny climate and countryside, Portugal is a luxury travel paradise.
Despite being a part of modern Europe one can still find the rural dwellings which have long stood the test of time. Portugal has taken many steps to preserve its long held customs and traditions and while high-rise resorts create modern architectural marvels you only have to travel a few miles to the north or east and you will find a more simple countryside. Here you will feel as though you have been transported back in time, a time when medieval towns, dragons, magicians and chivalry were rumored to exist.
The population of Portugal is roughly 10.6 million and the official language being spoken is Portuguese. Mirandese is also the second officially spoken language in some parts of Portugal.
Some of the must see Portugal tourist attractions include;
- Castelo de Sao Jorge – Castle of St. George
- Alfama – The oldest part of Lisbon
- Sé (Cathedral) – first church in Lisbon
- Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Museum
- Tower of Belem – This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Parque das Nacoes
- Fatima
- Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis
- Igreja de Sao Francisco
- Solar Vinho do Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- Frederico de Freitas Museum
- Sao Vicente Caves
- Whale Museum
- Porto Santo
- Coimbra University
- Guimaraes church and palace
- Braganca
- The Bairro Alto -is a historic enclave dating back to 1513
- Monument to the Discoveries was designed to commemorate the Portuguese Age of Discovery
While in Portugal we suggest you stay at Olissippo Lapa Palace. Originally home to the Count of Valencas and his family, this elegant building was re-opened in 1992 as a luxury hotel. Marble and stucco fill this hotel with old time elegance mixed with modern day amenities such as spas, pools, gym and sauna. It is luxury redefined.
Portugal, the second stop on the Luxe Travel Deals world tour.
We hope you travel along with us for the next little while as we journey to a new and exciting country each day. For more information about this or any other travel destination please feel free to contact us a 1-866-365-8747 or concierge@luxetraveldeals.com so that you can live well and travel more!
