Guide to holidays in luxurious Tróia Portugal. Getting to Tróia From Lisbon by Car: The easiest way to reach Tróia is by driving to Setúbal (about 50 minutes from Lisbon) and taking a car ferry across the Sado River to Tróia. The ferry ride takes around 20-30 minutes. From Lisbon by Public Transport: You can also take a train or bus to Setúbal from Lisbon, followed by the ferry. This takes about 1.5 to 2 hours in total. By Private Boat: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a private boat tour from Setúbal or Comporta, giving you a chance to explore the coast and spot dolphins on the way. Top Attractions and Activities in Tróia Beaches Tróia’s beaches are some of the best in Portugal, with soft white sand and clear blue waters. Roman Ruins of Tróia (Ruínas Romanas de Tróia) These well-preserved ruins date back to the 1st century AD, when Tróia was a major Roman center for fish-salting.
Dolphin Watching in the Sado Estuary Tróia Golf Course Where to Stay Dining in Tróia Tips for Visiting Tróia. Exclusive Travel Portugal visitors guide toTomar. Getting There Tomar is located about 135 km (84 miles) northeast of Lisbon. By Car: The drive from Lisbon takes around 1.5 hours via the A1 and A13 highways. By Train: Direct trains run from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations to Tomar, taking around 2 hours. Main Attractions Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo): This UNESCO World Heritage site is Tomar’s star attraction. Originally a Templar stronghold, the convent boasts stunning Manueline architecture, intricate cloisters, and the iconic Charola (Round Church), a richly decorated 12th-century rotunda that was once the Templar knights' private church.
Tomar Castle: Built in the 12th century, the castle overlooks the town and offers panoramic views. It's part of the Convent of Christ complex, and you can explore its ramparts and take in the historical ambiance. Historical and Cultural Sites Festivals and Events Where to Eat Where to Stay Day Trips from Tomar. Setubal offers beautiful beaches, natural beauty and rich history. Getting to Setubal By Car: Setúbal is around 40-50 minutes from Lisbon. The A2 motorway connects the two cities, making it an easy and scenic drive. By Train: Trains from Lisbon’s Roma-Areeiro or Entrecampos stations run regularly to Setúbal, taking about 1 hour. By Ferry: You can also access Setúbal via ferry from Troia, especially if you plan to visit the Troia Peninsula. Best Time to Visit Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery for outdoor activities.
Summer (June-August) is perfect for beach lovers, with hot, sunny days, but it can be crowded with tourists and locals alike. Winter (November-February) is mild but can be rainy, and many of the tourist services may operate on reduced schedules. Must See Attractions Arrábida Natural Park A natural wonder just outside the city, Arrábida Natural Park offers stunning views of the coastline, lush green hills, and secluded beaches. Troia Peninsula Beaches. Sesimbra offers sheltered bays, beaches and great sea food. Getting to Sesimbra From Lisbon: Sesimbra is about a 40-50 minute drive from Lisbon. You can also take a bus from Lisbon’s Praça de Espanha bus terminal, which takes around an hour.
Getting Around: The town is compact and walkable, but to explore the surrounding beaches and natural parks, renting a car or bike is recommended. Top Attractions and Activities Beaches Sesimbra is famed for its beaches, many of which are sheltered and offer calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Praia do Ouro (Gold Beach): Located in the heart of town, this beach is perfect for families and easy to access from the town centre. It offers calm waters thanks to the protection from the Harbour. Sesimbra Castle (Castelo de Sesimbra) Overlooking the town from the Serra da Arrábida hills, this 12th-century Moorish castle offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.
Arrábida Natural Park. Water Sports and Activities Where to Stay Tips for Visiting Sesimbra. Sintra - For a holiday that you’ll never want to forget. For a holiday that you’ll never want to forget, look no further than Sintra. This breathtaking resort is sure to provide you with endless wonder, magic and charm. Getting to Sintra From Lisbon: Sintra is about a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio Station, making it an ideal day trip.
Trains are frequent, and you can also reach Sintra by car or a guided tour. Transportation in Sintra: Sintra’s main attractions are scattered throughout the town and surrounding hills. Local buses and tuk-tuks make it easier to navigate the area, especially to reach higher-altitude sites. Top Attractions in Sintra Pena Palace The crown jewel of Sintra, Pena Palace is a vibrant, romantic castle perched atop a hill. Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros) Built in the 8th century by the Moors, this castle offers incredible views of Pena Palace and the surrounding landscapes. Explore the Town of Sintra Best Times to Visit Peak Season (Summer): June to August brings warm weather, but the town can get crowded. What to see and do in Óbidos Portugal from Exclusive Travel.
Getting There Location: Óbidos is about 85 km (53 miles) north of Lisbon. By Car: The drive from Lisbon takes about an hour via the A8 highway. By Train: Trains from Lisbon’s Sete Rios or Entrecampos stations reach Óbidos in about 2 hours. By Bus: There are also buses from Lisbon’s Campo Grande terminal, which take about an hour and a half. Exploring the Historic Centre Óbidos Castle: This is the town's crown jewel, a well-preserved medieval castle with sweeping views over the countryside. Built during the Moorish occupation, it’s now a hotel (Pousada do Castelo), but visitors can still explore its exterior and grounds. Must See Attractions Igreja de Santa Maria: A striking 12th-century church with intricate tile work, Renaissance elements, and paintings by famed Portuguese artist Josefa de Óbidos. Festivals and Events Walking Tours and Activities Self-Guided Walk: Óbidos is compact enough to explore on foot in a day.
Where to eat and drink Where to Stay Day Trips. Guide to visiting or staying in Nazaré Portugal. Getting There Location: Nazaré is about 120 km (75 miles) north of Lisbon. By Car: The drive from Lisbon takes about 1.5 hours via the A8 highway. By Bus: Express buses from Lisbon’s Sete Rios station take about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Nazaré. Main Attractions Praia da Nazaré: The main beach is wide, sandy, and perfect for relaxing. During the summer, it's popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Big-Wave Surfing The Canyon: Nazaré is home to the Nazaré Canyon, a deep underwater trench that channels Atlantic swells and creates some of the world’s biggest waves, reaching up to 100 feet (30 meters).
Historical and Cultural Sites Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré: A historic church with beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles) and a statue of the Virgin Mary said to have miraculous powers. Nazaré’s Fishing Heritage Traditional Fishing Boats: Along the beach, you’ll see traditional, brightly painted fishing boats, a nod to Nazaré’s roots as a fishing village.
Local Festivals. Visiting Lisbon? Read our holiday guide to Lisbon's attractions. Here's our guide to help you explore this captivating city: Essential Attractions and Historic Landmarks Belém Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Lisbon’s most iconic symbols. built in the 16th century as a fortress to guard the city. The tower offers spectacular views of the Tagus River and is a prime example of Manueline architecture. Jerónimos Monastery: Nearby in Belém, this stunning monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Trendy Neighbourhoods Bairro Alto: Known for its lively nightlife, Bairro Alto comes alive after dark with bustling bars, restaurants, and Fado houses where you can enjoy Portugal's soulful traditional music.
The Best Viewpoints Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: The best place for panoramic views of Lisbon, this viewpoint provides a breathtaking overlook of the entire city, including Alfama, the castle, and the river. Cultural Experiences and Museums Day Trips from Lisbon Sintra: A fairytale town with castles, palaces, and lush gardens. Ericeira is a surfers and beach lovers heaven read the exclusive guide. Located about 45 minutes from Lisbon, Ericeira is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and laid-back vibe. Getting to Ericeira From Lisbon: You can drive (about 45 minutes) or take a bus from Lisbon’s Campo Grande station, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Getting Around: Ericeira is walkable, but if you want to explore nearby beaches and nature areas, consider renting a car or a bicycle.
Top Attractions and Activities Surfing. Explore the Old Town Overview: Ericeira’s old town is a maze of cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses with blue accents, and colourful tiles. Best Times to Visit Summer (June to August): The high season with warm weather and lively atmosphere. Where to Stay Boutique Hotels and Surf Lodges: Try You and the Sea, Immerso, or Selina Ericeira for stylish, cozy options that cater to surfers and holiday-goers alike. Tips for Visiting Ericeira Book Accommodations Early: In summer, Ericeira fills up quickly, so booking in advance is wise. Tourist guide to Estoril what to see and do in Estoril. How to Get There From Lisbon: Estoril is easily accessible from Lisbon by train, which departs from Cais do Sodré station.
The scenic train journey along the coast takes about 30 minutes and is an affordable and relaxing way to arrive. By Car: You can also rent a car, which provides more flexibility to explore the surrounding areas. The drive takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Top Attractions Casino Estoril Known as Europe’s largest casino, Casino Estoril has a rich history and is reputed to have inspired Ian Fleming’s James Bond novel, Casino Royale.The casino offers gambling tables, slot machines, restaurants, and bars, as well as art exhibitions and live shows. Day Trips from Estoril Cascais Overview: Just a short walk or train ride away, Cascais is a lively town with a historic center, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Where to Eat Mar do Inferno (Cascais): A favorite for seafood lovers, located by the cliffs of Boca do Inferno. Estoril! Coimbra guide from Exclusive Travel Portugal.
Getting There Location: Coimbra is in central Portugal, about 200 km (125 miles) north of Lisbon and 120 km (75 miles) south of Porto. By Train: Coimbra is well-connected by train, with services from Lisbon (around 2 hours) and Porto (about 1 hour and 20 minutes). By Bus: There are buses from Lisbon and Porto that take roughly 2-3 hours. By Car: Coimbra is accessible by car via the A1 highway, taking about 2 hours from Lisbon or 1.5 hours from Porto. Main Attractions University of Coimbra: Founded in 1290, this is one of Europe’s oldest universities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the Old Town Almedina Arch and Tower: This ancient stone gate was once part of Coimbra’s city walls. Fado de Coimbra Unique Tradition: Coimbra has its own distinct style of Fado, Portugal’s famous melancholic music.
Where to Eat There are many restaurants in Coimbra to chose from to suit every taste or budget. Where to Stay Day Trips from Coimbra. A Cascais guide to this wonderful destination by Exclusive Travel. What to do and see in this seaside town. Explore the Historic Town Center Cascais Marina: A bustling marina where you can admire yachts, enjoy the views, and find a variety of cafes and restaurants. It’s a great spot to relax and soak in the coastal ambiance. Rua Direita: Cascais' main shopping street, filled with boutique stores, souvenir shops, and vibrant cafes.
It’s an excellent area for a leisurely stroll and some local shopping. Praça 5 de Outubro: The central square near the Cascais Town Hall and the harbor, often filled with local vendors and surrounded by beautiful tiled buildings. Beaches in Cascais Praia da Ribeira: Located right in the heart of Cascais, this beach is perfect for relaxing, with soft sand and calm waters. Top Attractions Cascais Citadel (Cidadela de Cascais): This former fortress offers both historic architecture and modern art exhibitions. Guide to exploring Vilamoura and holidays there. Key Features of Vilamoura: Vilamoura Marina: The Marina de Vilamoura is the centerpiece of the town and one of the largest marinas in Portugal, with a capacity for over 1,000 yachts.
It is surrounded by luxury hotels, chic bars, restaurants, and shops. The marina is not just a hub for boats; it’s a vibrant area filled with life, offering a wide variety of dining options and upscale boutiques. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, boat trips, and water sports. Golf Courses: Vilamoura is famous for its world-class golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the globe.
Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Vilamoura is home to a wide range of luxury hotels, resorts, and villas. Beaches: Praia da Marina and Praia da Falésia are two of the most popular beaches in the area. Nightlife and Dining: Vilamoura has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many chic bars, nightclubs, and casinos, particularly around the marina. Roman Ruins of Cerro da Vila: Shopping: Accessibility: Tavira holiday guide to a more traditional and laid-back atmosphere. Tavira is often described as one of the most picturesque towns in the Algarve. Unlike the more tourist-heavy areas in the western Algarve, Tavira offers a more traditional and laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking authentic Portuguese culture and a quieter escape. Overview of Tavira: Tavira is split by the Gilão River, which runs through the town, creating a scenic setting with pedestrian-friendly bridges connecting both sides. The town has a rich history that dates back to Roman and Moorish times, and it boasts beautiful churches, medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets.
Key Attractions in Tavira: Tavira Castle (Castelo de Tavira): The medieval castle of Tavira, located on a hill overlooking the town, offers panoramic views of Tavira’s rooftops, the river, and the surrounding countryside. The castle walls date back to the Moorish period, though the castle was expanded and fortified by the Portuguese after the reconquest. Churches of Tavira: Mercado da Ribeira: Guide to picturesque Silves in the Algarve.
History of Silves: Silves has a long and storied past, dating back to Roman times. However, it gained prominence during the Moorish period, when it became a thriving cultural and administrative centre known as Xelb. Under Moorish rule from the 8th to the 12th century, Silves was a key city in the Al-Gharb (modern-day Algarve), known for its prosperity and cultural significance. The town was eventually recaptured by Christian forces in 1189 during the Reconquista, marking the decline of its Moorish influence. Today, Silves is a testament to this rich past, with many historic landmarks remaining. Key Attractions in Silves: Silves Castle (Castelo de Silves): The Silves Castle is the town’s most iconic landmark and one of the best-preserved castles in the Algarve. Silves Cathedral (Sé de Silves): Located near the castle, the Silves Cathedral was built in the 13th century on the site of a former mosque, shortly after the Christian conquest.
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