Tourism in Portugal
Center of Portugal: the heart of Christmas !
The light of Christmas shines brighter in Center of Portugal ! This is the home of quite unique Christmas celebrations that take place all over the region from the coastline to the inland. It's time to embrace the magic of the season in all its timeless splendour.
Where to go
Center of Portugal destinations
Leiria
Villa Portela
Villa Portela is an historical landmark of the city of Leiria that dates back to the 19th century. Built by Roberto Charters Henriques d'Azevedo in 1894, this iconic cottage was inspired by Swiss architecture. The municipality of Leiria has converted Villa Portela in a flourishing art centre.
Villa Portela Art Center in Leiria
What to do
The best things to do in Center of Portugal
Articles
Discover Center of Portugal
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Cities & Villages
Trays' Feast in Tomar
When King D.Dinis obtained from pope John XXII the creation of the Military Order of Christ, which was to render such inestimable services to Portugal and the World, his virtuous wife, Queen Isabel de Aragão – the Saint – laid the foundation of the great movement of Christian solidarity by instituting the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, over the Apostles, with festivities and rituals which in many cases undoubtedly of old pagan origin, like the “Festa dos Tabuleiros”.
Cities & Villages
Unique Leiria: a city full of curiosities
Leiria, beautifully located by the Lis River, is a city full of curiosities. So many stories and secrets to unveil !
Beaches & Surf
Peniche Surf Camp
At the Peniche Surf Camp you can learn the sport and the spirit of surfing in a funny and encouraging way! Because your smile is our goal!
Arts & Culture
Aristides de Sousa Mendes in the National Pantheon
On October 19th 2021, Aristides de Sousa Mendes was given the honours of remaining in the National Pantheon by the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. A truly deserved recognition to a man who saved thousands of lives from the certain death in the Holocaust.
Magazine
Edition 99 - Travelling with purpose
15.09.2025 • 06.10.2025
Travelling is all about making meaningful connections and feeling the spirit of the place. Talking to locals, sharing life stories, unveiling the secrets of a soul-soothing Mother Nature, making a positive impact on the surrounding environment. Feeling close to what really matters. The world needs lasting bonds. And every step counts.
Edition 98 - Ocean: Blue Dialogue
14.04.2025 • 28.04.2025
Dedicated to the theme “Ocean: Blue Dialogue”, World Expo Osaka 2025 will be held from April 13th to October 13th. Portugal and Japan share a 500 years-old History, along with a common concern for the sustainability of our oceans and the urgent need to foster a blue economy. This edition follows an inspirational journey across the Atlantic coastline, unveiling its iconic coastal cities, jaw-dropping surf spots and welcoming fishing towns.
Edition 97 - Weddings
31.03.2025 • 14.04.2025
Center of Portugal has all it takes to be a perfect wedding destination: breath-taking venues, unique natural landscapes along with top-professional wedding planners who put all their passion into every single detail. Because love will always be the secret ingredient.
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