17 best cities to visit in Center of Portugal • Center of Portugal

Here you’ll find a little bit of everything. There are historic villages, thermal springs, mountain communities devoted to design, the world’s largest waves, castles, canals, cherries and wine. In a region so varied - so steeped in history - all visitors can really hope to gather are snapshots; vignettes of life and legacy in a destination that defies definition and seeks to surprise.

Strategically located between the Oporto and Lisbon airports, the Center of Portugal region is pretty much an enchanting postcard of a whole country.
The leitmotif of this dazzling region is its deep diversity. The landscapes are continuously changing: endless Atlantic-facing beaches, great surf spots, the unique Aveiro Lagoon, Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest peak, 12 Historical Villages, 27 Schist Villages, Mountain Villages, 4 natural parks, 5 natural reserves, 2 protected areas, several thermal stations and 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Center of Portugal is also the home of Fátima, one of the most important Catholic shrines in the world. The University of Coimbra, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, is a landmark of knowledge and cultural identity. Surrounded by medieval walls, the charming town of Óbidos is a paradise for book and chocolate lovers.

So many reasons to discover Center of Portugal. Away from the crowds. The perfect place to unplug and to find the center of what really matters.

Aveiro

The eternal "Portuguese Venice", the light-bathed city of Aveiro was recently elected by The Guardian readers as "the most romantic city in Europe". Embraced by the Aveiro Lagoon - Ria de Aveiro - Aveiro can be discovered by boat, on foot or by bike, riding one of the several free bikes of the city, the BUGA. Aveiro bursts with colour and joie de vivre!

Viseu

In Center of Portugal, surrounded by mountains and rivers Vouga and Dão, stands the city of Viseu, birthplace of Vasco Fernandes, and milestone of sacred art and religious architecture, as evidenced by the numerous churches that adorn the historical center.

Guarda

The highest city in Portugal, Guarda is inhabited by century-old buildings, outstanding historical landmarks and brilliant testimonies of a glorious History. A noble city made of granite and warm-hearted hospitality, embraced by the dazzling natural landscape of Serra da Estrela.

Covilhã

Covilhã, beautifully located at the heart of Serra da Estrela, has on wool the main core of its urban identity. This 48 hours tour leads you across the enduring memories of Covilhã, Factory City, as well as the most challenging wool-inspired projects heading to the future. Past and future woven together.

Coimbra

One of the most important cities in Portugal, Coimbra, beautifully embraced by the Mondego River, was once the capital of the Portuguese kingdom and continues to be a deeply fascinating city, owner of a glorious History, magnificent monuments and historical landmarks. The ancient University of Coimbra, classified as UNESCO World Heritage site, is a lighthouse of knowledge, as well as an enduring symbol of the Portuguese-speaking world.

Figueira da Foz

Sun and sea with abundance. Figueira da Foz, the city at the mouth of the Mondego River, located at 40 kilometers from Coimbra, with extensive beaches of soft white sand which invite for a relaxing holiday.

Castelo Branco

Easily reachable by highway or by train, only 2 hours away from Lisbon Airport, the inland city of Castelo Branco is an hidden gem of historical and cultural heritage. A place of magical gardens, genius masters of contemporary painting and colourful embroideries. At the heart of a flawless nature and endless inspiring landscapes. In the surroundings of Castelo Branco, don't miss the chance to explore the eye-catching Natural Park of Tejo Internacional or the unique Historical Villages of Idanha-a-Velha and Monsanto. A true time travel !

Leiria

Certainly one of the most surprising cities of Center of Portugal, Leiria, beautifully located by the Lis River, is a city full of curiosities.

Batalha

The town of Batalha developed alongside the Monastery of Santa Maria de Vitória, constructed in 1386 to keep a vow by Portuguese King Dom João I to the Virgin Mary that he would build it if Portugal defeated Castile at the Battle of Aljubarrota on 14th August 1385.

Fátima

Fátima, in Portugal, became one of the key centers for the Cult of the Virgin Mary and has been recognised worldwide as one of the most important religious destinations in the world, devoted to Our Lady of Fátima. A place where the spiritual journey begins.

Tomar

Portugal has a whole city that has risen according to an esoteric plan. It is the city of Tomar, designed by Gualdim Pais, the most famous master of the Order of the Temple. Founded in 1160, Tomar was conceived according to the archetype of an initiating mentality, as the Polis, the Acropolis and the Pantheon.

Caldas da Rainha

The foundation of Caldas da Rainha is deeply intertwined in the opening of the Thermal Hospital. It influenced the own identity of this city. Moreover, the name “Caldas da Rainha” means “Queen’s thermal springs”.

Abrantes

Embraced by the Tagus River, the charming city of Abrantes continues to be a well-kept secret. A fascinating History, along with a breath-taking natural heritage. A match made in heaven!

Nazaré

The once fishing village of Nazaré, a very popular beach resort in Portugal, became a worldwide phenomenon after the McNamara effect. On November 1st 2011, the Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara surfed a 78 feet (23,77 meters) wave during the ZON North Canyon Show in Praia do Norte beach, in Nazaré! Since then, Nazaré - or as the surfers call it, "Naza" - has caught the world's attention. But Nazaré is more than its incredibly big waves. It is a deeply fascinating destination with countless secrets to unveil.

Alcobaça

Beautifully placed between the mountains and the coastline, the soul of the charming city of Alcobaça is deeply defined by the monumentality of the brilliant cistercian Monastery of Alcobaça, World Heritage site since 1989. A stronghold of History and cultural richness, hand-in-hand with heart-felt hospitality.

Óbidos

The enchanting Medieval village of Óbidos, encircled by walls, will amaze you with its endless beauty. This is why until 1883 Óbidos was exclusive property of the Queens of Portugal. A UNESCO Creative City, Óbidos is a paradise for book lovers from all over the globe. A literary town embellished by bougainvilleas, winding streets and colourful houses. Sweet like chocolate!

Peniche

Definitely one of the enchanting and unique coastal destinations of Center of Portugal, the fishing city of Peniche is a world acclaimed surf spot, but also an inviting destination for families or solo travellers, as well as bird-watching and geology fans. A colourful city embraced by the Atlantic that welcomes its visitors with mouth-watering tables and warm-hearted hospitality!