Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe, having been founded in the 9th century though there were already people residing here long before that. It was once a center of the Age of Exploration, competing with kingdoms like Spain and England. Unlike many other European countries, Portugal did not sustain damage during the two World Wars, which means structures were preserved,and some were even granted UNESCO Heritage status. We’ve selected some of the best for you and you can read more on these great sites below. Plan your next trip to Portugal, and see all the rich history for yourself. Here are the top 10 UNESCO sites in Portugal.
1. Historic Centre of Evora (from USD 427.86)
Evora has history dating back almost five thousand years and the different sites here mark different parts of its history. The most notable attractions here are the ruins of the Roman Temple, the Cathedral, and the Temple of Diana, which date back to the heyday of the Roman Empire. You also get a great view of the Alqueva, Europe’s largest artificial lake. Lastly, you will visit the nearby Monsaraz village, which contains many prehistoric settlements. This private tour starts from Lisbon and usually takes a full day to complete.
Lisbon: Full Day Private Guided Tour to Évora and Monsaraz
Duration: 8.0 hour
2. Laurisilva of Madeira (from USD 62.57)
The Laurisilva of Madeira island is the finest and best example of a laurel forest still existing today. These forests contain certain species of evergreen and hardwood trees, are humid, and usually have stable temperatures. You’ll be able to view all the trees and wildlife in an open vehicle that crosses the forest. The tour starts from Funchai and takes approximately eight hours to complete. You’ll end in Porto Moniz, where you can enjoy the volcanic pools and black sand beaches after a long day.
Northwestern Madeira: Full–Day 4x4 Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
3. Arrábida Natural Park and dolphin watching (from USD 206.03)
Arrábida Natural Park is located just outside Lisbon, and is over 100 square kilometers (38.6 square miles) in area. It is home to many species of flora and fauna, from birds to trees. The sea is the home to many bottle-nosed dolphins. You can watch these dolphins swim and jump around the water when the weather is clear. You can view them from either a restored galleon or a catamaran. A trip typically lasts most of the day under clear sun so be sure to bring enough water and sunblock with you.
Full-Day Dolphin Watching Tour from Lisbon
Duration: 6.0 hour
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4. Historic Centre of Guimarães (from USD 138.26)
Guimarães is known as the birthplace of Portugal, as the nation was founded here by its first king, Afonso Henriques. The historic district is well-preserved and the most prominent structure here is the castle. Other places to visit include St. Miguel’s Church, Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, and the narrow streets filled with historic houses and structures. The tour usually ends at the Nossa Senhora de Oliveira church, with the Padrao de Salado monument in front. This tour starts from Porto and takes around half a day to complete. Don’t forget to take photos and buy souvenirs from the shops around.
Private Guimarães Half-Day Tour from Porto
Duration: 4.0 hour
5. University of Coimbra (from USD 80.35)
The University of Coimbra is the oldest university in Portugal, and one of the oldest in the world. It was founded in the late 1200s and settled in its present location in Coimbra in by 1537. Tour around places like the Royal Palace, Chapel of St. Michael, Joanina Library, and even the Academic Prison. An English-speaking professional guide will assist you throughout the tour for your convenience. You can also savor some great views of town from the decks after the tour. A tour here takes around 90 minutes so you’ll only need to bring your ears and camera.
University of Coimbra Walking Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
6. Cultural Landscape of Sintra (from USD 81.33)
Sintra is a town famous for its elaborate palaces and castles. You can visit some of these great structures, including the Palacio Nacional, Castelo dos Mouros, and Pena Palace. Pena Palace is the highlight of a trip here to Sintra; it has the status of a national monument, and a Heritage Site. The palace sits atop a hill and has a commanding view of Lisbon, a reminder of its past status as a royal palace. There is a train and bus route that goes directly to Sintra. A tour around here can take between one and two days if you want to really visit every corner of the area.
From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
7. Historic Centre of Porto (from USD 59.28)
Porto is Portugal’s second largest city, and one of Europe’s oldest, dating back to 300 BC. You’ll see the majestic Porto Cathedral, which dates back over 900 years, walk down the Avenida dos Aliados, and see all the historic structures, along with newer ones that still follow the same design. You can also view the Duoro River from the iconic steel Dom Luis I Bridge. The walking tour takes around four hours and a professional guide will assist you every step of the way. Lastly, you can visit the Livraria Lello, a famous bookstore with a unique wooden stairway.
Porto: 4-Hour Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hour
8. Convent of Christ in Tomar (from USD 87.0)
This historical complex was once a prominent Knights Templar structure in Tomar built in the 12th century, and has also seen use as home to the Order of Christ after the Templars’ dissolution. Today, you can view the elaborate structure, including the iconic round church, the castle, the Manueline nave, and eight cloisters (corridors that form a quadrangle). A tour guide will help you discover the secrets behind these structures along the way. You can also check out the rest of the historic town after your trip to the convent. Note that tours start from Lisbon and the travel time is around an hour.
Tomar Templar Full-Day Group Tour from Lisbon
Duration: 8 hour
9. Alto Duoro Wine Region (from USD 127.16)
This whole-day tour covers the historic Alto Duoro Wine Region, an area along the Duoro River that has been producing wine for the last 2000 years. The famous Porto Wine is produced here, and only here, as it has been regulated since the 18th century. You begin at the center of Amarante, where several churches can be viewed, along with the River Tamega. You then visit one of the vineyards that produce the Porto wine, then see the elaborate Pinhao Station, and then end your journey in Villa Real before heading back to your starting point. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, as this is a very long trip.
Douro 9-Hour City Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 9 hour
10. Monastery of the Hieronymites and Tower of Belém (from USD 32.13)
Tour Lisbon’s historic district of Belém, an area rich in historical monuments and cultural spaces. Two of the most iconic structures in this district are the Jerónimos monastery and the Tower of Belém. The monastery was once a rest place for pilgrims and is a great example of Manueline architecture. The Belém Tower, also called Tower of Saint Vincent, was a 16th-century fortification that also served as a gateway to Lisbon. These two sites are symbols of the Age of Discovery, one of Portugal’s most significant historical periods. Don’t forget to try out the local tarts during your trip. The whole journey takes around two-and-a-half hours.
Lisbon: Belém Guided Tour with River Boat Cruise
Duration: 2.5 hour
Portugal, a country rich in history
With over 2,000 years of history, and having been through two World Wars unharmed, Portugal has many heritage sites. From castles and temples, to forests and roads, you won’t run out of places to visit. Plan a trip now and see all these wonderful places for yourself!
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