Visit Portugal, inspired by the genius of Ferdinand Magellan, the 16th-century explorer who was the first to undertake a voyage around the world. Identify with that spirit of exploration, and come discover our country.

Start your journey in the Upper Douro Wine-growing Region and visit Sabrosa, the place where Magellan was born. This region is heavily influenced by wine making, and it is the first demarcated wine-growing region in the world. The beauty and originality of the vineyards cultivated on terraces form a breathtaking landscape, which UNESCO has designated as a World Heritage Site. Be sure to take the opportunity to visit the estates where these nectars are produced and follow one or more of the oenotourism programmes, spending a few days in the region.


Photo: Douro © Filipe Rebelo

One cannot talk about wines and fail to mention Portuguese gastronomy, which here, as in any other part, reveals the influence of distant cultures, going back to the voyages of the Portuguese sailors centuries ago. Local foods were complemented with products and spices from other continents, which today are an integral part of Portuguese cuisine, such as cinnamon, which is indispensable in the custard tarts everyone loves so much.


Photo: Pastéis de nata © Shutterstock - GV - Homydesign

This influence from long ago days is also evident in art and architecture, especially the Manueline style, a notably Portuguese style that adorns the monuments of the 15th and 16th centuries and includes maritime elements such as ropes and nautical instruments, and motifs alluding to the flora and fauna of distant lands. There are many examples all around the country, the most well known being the Torre de Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, and the window of the chapterhouse at the Convent of Christ in Tomar.


Photo: Biombo Namban-jin, Japão © Fundação Oriente

Also in Lisbon, at the National Museum of Ancient Art, learn more about the role Portugal played as the precursor of the encounters between cultures, evidenced by objects such as the Namban screens, which contain representations of Portuguese, the first westerners seen in Japan. Another place to visit is the Marine Museum, which brings to mind the discoveries made by the Portuguese mariners and includes life-size models of their vessels. Here, too, is the first hydroplane to cross the South Atlantic, which was piloted by Portuguese aviators, once again confirming this spirit of exploration.


Photo: Dark Sky Alqueva |The Moon Milky Way - Convento da Orada|Monsaraz © Miguel Claro

Astronomical observation was essential in tracing these routes. And Portugal has various locations with excellent visibility at night for star gazing, two of which are certified internationally as “Starlight Tourism Destinations” or Dark Sky Reserves. In the Alentejo, the Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve takes advantage of the unique conditions of the large lake, and in Central Portugal, the Schist Villages are in a zone free of light pollution, where the night sky can be seen in all its majestic splendour. Besides these, there are places of great beauty and tranquillity, where you can rest and recharge your batteries for new challenges.


Photo: Algarve © Turismo do Algarve

If your preference is underwater seascapes, try the spots with excellent conditions for diving. On the mainland, or the islands of the Azores or Madeira, there are various natural reefs or artificial ones formed by sunken ships, where you can enjoy seeing the underwater life. But whether at sea, on the rivers, on land or in the air, there are many other ways to test the limits in a wide diversity of sceneries in the middle of nature. From speleology to rafting, from surfing to canyoning, there are various radical activities to get the adrenaline pumping. Just choose the one that is best suited to your tastes and state of mind.