Regions of Portugal

Portugal is located on the west side of the Iberian Peninsula, ideally positioned between Spain and the Atlantic ocean. Its geographic location along the Atlantic coastline is the reason why Portugal quickly became an ocean-bound country setting the stage for centuries of sea adventure and discoveries. Portugal's natural advantages of a sunny country with such diverse geographic features have turned the country into a chosen destination for many holidaymakers, an ideal place for practicing water sports and playing golf, offering modern tourism facilities, and quaint and personalized means of accommodation, such as Solares de Portugal (privately owned homes ranging from wonderful farmhouses to manor houses), and luxury and charm hotels located in castles, old monasteries and manor houses known as Pousadas of Portugal. Regions of Portugal have their own characteristic attractions and distinctive traits that have rendered each different from the other. For instance, in the northern regions of the country, corn and potatoes abound, while the southern part grows oranges and figs. The regions in Portugal are termed provincias in the Portuguese language. The major Portugal regions have been further divided into units of smaller areas.

Main Regions of Portugal: Algarve: Among all regions of Portugal, this is known for its long stretching golden beaches. Algarve invites visitors all year round. Other attractions in the regions include castles, rivers, fishing villages and its local gastronomy. Costa de Prata or the Silver Coast: This region in Portugal has a reputation for its architectural splendor and places of religious and historic interest. Coimbra, Leira and Aveiro are some of the important cities of this regions. The regional delicacies feature fresh fish dishes like eel soups and roasted pig.

Costa Verde or the Green Coast: Of all the regions of Portugal, this is supposed to be the most green one, with lush valleys and mountains with a cover of green. The region is home to some spectacular buildings, beaches and vineyards. Porto, Braga and Viana do Castelo are some of the well known cities of this region. Local cuisine includes wines, spiced pork dishes and desserts. Costa de Lisboa or Lisbon Coast: The capital city Lisbon falls in this region. This region is quite rich. The cuisine of this region features mainly fish dishes that include clams, bass, swordfish and oysters. Chesses made of goat and sheep milk is also a specialty in this region. Almost all types of authentic Portuguese dishes can be tasted in Lisbon.

Montanhas or the Mountains: This region occupies the north eastern part of the country. This region offers spectacular views of the hills and is apt for trekking. Vila Real, Braganca, Castelo Branco and Viseu are significant places of the region. Sausages and cheese feature in the regional gastronomy. Planicies or the Plains: Important places in this region includes Tomar, Alentejo, Santarem, Portalegre and Monsaraz. Several historical sites abound in the region like castles and churches. The Roman temple is a well known one. Cakes, sausages, stews, fried rabbit and cheese are the local delicacies.

Mainland Portugal If you plan to have restful, quiet holidays do not go to the Algarve (in Southern Portugal the Alentejo is fine all year around) during the high season (roughly mid-July to mid-September), when facilities are packed.