Portugal is Spain’s neighbor to the east, sharing the Iberian peninsual. It’s bordered by the Atlantic ocean on the south and east, and Galicia to the north. The capital and largest city of Portugal is Lisbon, the 7th most visited city in Southern Europe.

Lisbon

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world. It was ruled by a series of Germanic tribes from the 5th century until it was captured by the Moors in the 8th century. In the 1100s, it was recaptured by the Crusaders. Even though Lisbon is on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, it has a Mediterranean climate with winter highs around 15°C (59°F). The Baixa is Lisbon’s downtown area and the traditional center of city life. In the heart of the city you can find Lisbon’s oldest and most traditional shops.

 

Algarve

The Algarve is the southern region of Portugal, world famous for its beautiful and unique beaches and picturesque seaside villages. The area’s capital is Faro, a historic town with a large population, an airport, and a university. Lagos, Albufeira, Sagres, and Portimão are some other notable cities in Algarve. Tourists are drawn to the Algarve year round because of it’s temperate climates and abundant sunshine. If the Algarve had a tagline, it would be “sun, sea, and sand.”