Traveling to Portugal? How about some unusual summer destinations?

Now that vaccination programs are underway throughout the world and the number of new COVID-19 cases is decreasing in Europe, the idea of traveling abroad for holidays is becoming easier to embrace – at least to some destinations.

Thankfully, Portugal appears to be one of the leading choices for the summer of 2021. In fact, 24 hours after the British government announced the green list of countries to which Britons were allowed to travel, this European nation witnessed a major surge in holiday bookings.

As usual, the Algarve region (with its southern warm beaches, golf courses, and large expat community) and Portugal’s two major cities (the capital Lisbon and the ever-growing Porto) have become the most sought-after destinations.

Whether you’re curious about an off-the-beaten-track experience or hoping to avoid oversaturated destinations, Portugal has plenty to offer you while on holidays. In case you need proof, the Telegraph has listed a few “hidden gems” you could visit. Among all the suggestions, there are a few we’d like to emphasize.

 

Guimarães

In the north of Portugal, we recommend a visit to Guimarães. Less than an hour away from Porto, there is plenty of architectural milestones to marvel at in this Unesco-listed town, with plenty of History behind it:

  • Guimarães proudly describes itself as “the birthplace of Portugal”;
  • Why? Because it was chosen as the first capital by the nation’s first king (12th century);
  • Its castles, churches, and granite buildings allow you to travel back to Medieval times.

 

Aveiro

Another not-so-discussed highlight is the maritime city of Aveiro, in the Central region of Portugal. Here you can enjoy a unique blend of urban and sea life, as you’ll walk around a modern city that has never abandoned its ancient traditions:

  • As the Portuguese Venice, you can navigate its water-canals in a typical boat;
  • In honor of its fishing culture, you should try Aveiro’s fine cuisine;
  • Enjoy its Art Noveau façades and learn more about them by visiting its famous Museum.

 

Covilhã

Finally, we highlight another location in Central Portugal, though this time it’s far away from the coast. In fact, some of the most beautiful landscapes and greatest gastronomy secrets are hidden among the inland regions of this country. Hence, we suggest Covilhã:

  • Fall in love with tradition: in this region, you can taste some of Portugal’s best cheeses;
  • Mingle with nature: among the green landscape, you can marvel at the wildlife;
  • Explore Serra da Estrela: the highest mountain on mainland Portugal and its landscapes.

 

As you visit Portugal while on holidays, we honestly hope you’ll fall in love with all the moments, and experiences waiting for you. If you’d like to know more about this country or even move here, feel free to reach us anytime!