Lisbon, a city needing no introduction, offers must-see sites in Belém like the Torre de Belém, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, where you can delve into the history of the Portuguese Discoveries. Other essential landmarks include Lisbon’s Cathedral, Castelo de S. Jorge, and the Águas Livres Aqueduct. For a complete Lisbon experience, wander through downtown streets, visit Chiado, Praça do Comércio, and Restauradores, admire the Portuguese Cobblestone craftsmanship, savor the best Pastel de Nata at Fábrica da Nata, and explore the oldest local shops in town.Sintra is renowned for its romantic ambiance, historic palaces and mansions, and the dense forest surrounding the village. Explore Sintra’s streets, historical sites, and try local pastries like Travesseiro and Queijada. Outside the village, don’t miss the Pena Park with its century-old trees and the romantic Pena Palace. Nearby, visit the Castelo dos Mouros, one of Portugal’s oldest castles from the Moorish occupation. Also, check out Quinta da Regaleira, Palácio Nacional de Sintra, and Palácio de Montserrat.Estoril and Cascais, often called the “Portuguese Riviera,” transitioned from small fishing communities to affluent retreats during WWII, known for exiled royalty and spies. Today, these villages boast century-old mansions and golden sandy beaches.Setúbal and Sesimbra, located south of Lisbon across the Tagus River, offer distinct experiences. Setúbal, with Portugal’s third-largest port, is an industrial hub with historical sites like the São Filipe Fortress and Igreja de Santa Maria da Graça. Visit the Portinho da Arrábida in the Arrábida Natural Park for crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and lush forests extending to the ocean.Sesimbra is a charming fishing town known for its incredible food, beautiful beaches, and excellent birdwatching spots. It’s also home to Cabo Espichel, the westernmost point in Europe, where you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and visit the 18th-century Santuário do Cabo Espichel.
