<p>With enchanting cities, medieval castles, incredible food and golden beaches, Portugal is a treasure waiting to be discovered. As a Portugal Destination Expert, I have traveled from Lisbon to the northern reaches of the country.</p>
<p>For a small country, about the size of Indiana, there is so much to see and do. To quote <em>Lonely Planet</em>, "A rookie mistake is trying to see all of Portugal during one visit. Even if you have a few weeks to spare, you won’t be able to visit everything in this diverse country."</p>
<p>Instead, I suggest focusing on one theme or region of the country, such as my sample Porto & the Douro River itinerary (see below).</p>
<p>Then how do you get started and where is the best place for you to begin? That really depends on your interests, budget, flexibility of travel dates. When we speak I can help you put together an amazing customized trip.</p>
<p>With that in mind, I have included an overview of some of the top picks below.</p>
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<p><strong>LISBON</strong> - The Portuguese capital is filled with options including:</p>
<p>*Enjoy the view - The city set on seven hills is one of Europe's sunniest cities with 132 sunny days each year. Stop at one of the city overlooks such as <em>Miradouro da Graça</em> with your favorite beverage.</p>
<p>*Historical Sites - Don't miss the 11th century <em>Castelo de São Jorge</em> (castle), the 15th century <em>Mosteiro dos Jerónimos</em> (monastery), or the 16th century <em>Palácio Nacional de Sintra</em> (palace).</p>
<p>*Food & Wine - Codfish is a staple of Portuguese cuisine as well as Portuguese olive oil. You will find cod at lunch or dinner, fried or poached, in a stew or a soup, traditional or with a contemporary twist in one of the famed 365 recipes for the fish. Top off your meal with iconic Portuguese custard tarts <em>Pastéis de Nata</em>.</p>
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<p><strong>PORTO</strong> - As Portugal's second city and origin of its name, culture abounds:</p>
<p>*Waterfront - A walk along the <em>Ribiera</em> (waterfront of the Douro River) is a must when visiting Porto.</p>
<p>*Historical Sites - Visit the Se (cathedral) at the top of the hill and wander the winding streets down to the waterfront. Also, don't miss the gilded interior of the Igreja de São Francisco. </p>
<p>*Food & Wine - On the other side of the river visit Vila Nova de Gaia and stop in for your favorite Port Wine. Enjoy the local Francesinha (little France) sandwich.</p>
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<p><strong>DOURO VALLEY</strong></p>
<p>*Terraced Vineyards - As the world's oldest demarcated wine region, options abound. Visit and Quinta (wine farm) and sample red wines, white wines, and of course their Port wines. </p>
<p>*Cruise the Douro River- Whether on a simple day cruise or a week-long experience this is not to be missed. The natural beauty will take you back in time. </p>
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<p><strong>ALGARVE</strong></p>
<p>*Stunning Beaches - With a combination of a rugged coastline and some prime beaches you will find plenty to enjoy. Be careful when coming off season as some establishments close for the winter. </p>
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<p><strong>COIMBRA</strong></p>
<p>*University - Coimbra is a college town with one of the oldest universities in Europe(Velha Universidade de Coimbra) founded in 1290. Visit the stunning 18th century library. </p>
<p>*Jardims da Quinta das Lágrimas - Lagrimas means tears in Portuguese. Visit the villa and gardens to learn of Portugal's 14th century Romeo and Juliet. </p>
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<p><strong> TOMAR</strong></p>
<p>*Knights Templar - After Friday, 13 October 1307 the Knights Templar fled to Portugal and reorganized as the Order of Christ. Visit their headquarters at the Convento do Cristo. </p>
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<p><strong>NAZARÉ</strong></p>
<p>*Incredible Surfing - Nazaré is a small fishing village and home of the highest wave ever surfed at 86 feet. With 520 miles of coastline, Portugal has opportunities for everyone. </p>
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<p><strong>FAITH</strong></p>
<p>Braga is known as the <em>Rome of Portuga</em>l with its many churches and Fatima is a well-known religious site. Consider the <em>Way of Santiago</em> pilgrimage either from Porto or Lisbon. </p>
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<p><strong>MADEIRA</strong> - Awarded <em>World's Best Island Destination</em> for the 8th straight year. </p>
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<p><strong>AND MORE...</strong></p>
<p>Call me today and I will help you plan a vacation you will never forget.</p>
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