Cityscape

Experience the contradictory lively nightlife among exquisite architecture, sandy beaches and fantastic views in Lisbon. It’s a great city for exploring on foot with tiny streets, squares, shops and restaurants tucked away down every avenue. The capital also has excellent train connections with the rest of Portugal.

Landscape

Porto, the name may sound familiar, as it should, it’s the home of port wine. Just 3 hours from Lisbon on an Alfa Pendular (AP) train, it’s an interesting town with a beautiful train station, a Baroque church and winding streets. The historic Portuguese town of Sintra in the south is another feast for your eyes, set in beautiful rolling hills with a royal palace at its centre.

Take Home

For a hand-knit fishermen’s sweater as a reminder of your trip visit the seafarers’ towns of Nazare and Povoa da Varzim. Or for hand-painted tiles and intricate cutwork from Madeira try Lisbon city centre. Check market days nationwide to find the best deals.

Food & Drink

The food in Portugal is impeccably prepared and based on regional produce. Lisbon is best for seafood; buy yours fresh from Cascais market. To satisfy a sweet tooth try the Algarve for almond and fig sweets. And if you’re a fan of tripe, visit Oporto, they’re well known for being a nation of tripeiros (tripe eaters!).

New Perspective

Pay a visit to Portugal dos Prequeninos in Coimbra, 1 hour 48 minutes from Lisbon on an AP train. You’ll find a park full of miniature versions of Portugal’s monuments and a section devoted to the country’s former colonies.

• Lisbon

Portugal bonuses

The national railway company of Portugal is CP

Océanario 15 % discount www.oceanario.pt
 Train station Lisboa Oriente