Portugal is a country of astonishing beauty and diversity, not to mention clear blue skies and friendly, courteous people. Portugal is a land of infinite options. You can mingle with the crowds in one of the more sophisticated beach resorts or wander through the medieval quarters of historic cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga or Coimbra.

If it's an activity holiday you're looking for, Portugal is one of Europe's premier golfing destinations while the tennis schools are second-to-none. You could try your hand at big game fishing or horse riding, learn how to windsurf or water ski. Other unmissable experiences include Fado (Portugal's answer to soul music), country fairs where centuries old folk traditions are lovingly reenacted, Port wine tastings and mouthwatering fish suppers. Portugal is a country ripe for discovery.

Web pages:

www.portugal.org
www.thereareplaces.com
www.portugalvirtual.pt
www.rt-oeste.pt
http://praias.publico.pt

Albufeira One of Europe's most popular vacation sites, the Algarve is south of Lisbon.   Batalha The Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória was built in answer to a vow made by King John I to the Virgin, if the Castillian's invader were defeated in the Battle of Aljubarrota. Elected by UNESCO as World Heritage.   Estoril Renowned worldwide as an important tourism spot (casino, golf course and racing track). The beautiful Santo António Church stands out in this cosmopolitan resort, which also boasts an exciting nightlife.   Leiria A striking medieval royal castle hangs atop the graceful town of Leiria.   Mafra Palace-Convent, built in the 18th century, is the largest Portuguese religious monument. It consists of royal apartments, magnificent library, bell tower and basilica.   Santarém Castle of Roman origin overlooking Portas do Sol (Sun Gates) and opening on to a panoramic view of the Tagus river.   Setúbal Opposite to the Tróia peninsula (11 miles of beaches and golf courses) lies the city of the Sado river (an important natural reserve).   Tomar Christ Convent, classified in UNESCO’s International Heritage list (12th-16th centuries).     Nazaré Fishermen land, near Alcobaça, famous of delicious food, is an important tourist zone with wonderful beach.     Évora Land of Alentejo farmers. There is a strong activity in developing animal and food production (wine from Alentejo). Famous Évora University. Faro Faro is the capital of Algarve region. It is an attractive city with many points of interest. Has numerous resorts and plenty of luxurious hotels for which Algarve is famous. It is a paradise for people who love beach, sea and lots of sun.

Alcobaça Monumental Cistercian Abbey of Santa Maria, founded in 1152 (classified in UNESCO’s International Heritage list).   Cascais Stylish summer resort. There are the numerous restaurants, bars, discotheques and historic places.   Fátima One of the most important Marian centers of pilgrimage in the catholic world. Basilica and Capelinha das Aparições, standing in the place where it is said that Our Lady appeared to the three shepherds.   Lisboa Lisbon is a capital of Portugal with around 1, 5 million of habitants. With its beauty and diversity belongs to one of the most interesting cities in Europe.   Óbidos Completely enclosed by lofty medieval walls, this is a small town with whitewashed houses brightened up by colorful bougainvilleas. The massively-towered castle has now been converted into an elegant pousada.   Sesimbra Picturesque small fishing town, with a medieval castle atop a hill. Whilst here, do not miss the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo, at Cabo Espichel, and Lagoa de Albufeira, a favourite spot for windsurfers.   Sintra (Classified in the UNESCO World Heritage list) In the center stands the National Palace, with its beautiful painted rooms and huge pair of conical chimneys, the village’s ex-libris.     Porto Is the second city, after Lisbon, located in the north of Portugal, a capital of Douro Litoral region, historical buildings with notable beauty like Porto Cathedra and Clérigos City Hall. Foundation Seralves and numerous museums have a great role in cultural life of Porto citizens.   Coimbra Located in a Centre of Portugal, this city makes people’s mark because of its university which belongs to one of the oldest and greatest universities in Europe. Presence of students makes Coimbra an important centre of politic and public life in Portugal. Worth seeing are Coimbra Cathedra “Sé de Coimbra Baixa” and Montras street.     Braga This city, with its religious character, “Sameiro de Braga”, is an important tourist zone, after the Fátima. Santuinho and Bragalandia are very attractive places to visit, with its diversity, food and regional dances.     Lagos Lagos is a famous tourist city in Algarve region. Characterises of beautiful beaches, historical monuments and lots of bars, clubs and discos. In Lagos people can practice all kinds of water sports and enjoy many golf camps.