The categorisation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is, at a worldwide level, one of the most important that can be attributed to a loction, as far as the preservation of our cultural heritage at least. In Portugal, there are currently 17 places distinguished as World Heritage Sites, which are ideal destinations to visit for a weekend or a mini-holiday.
To help you decide where to start, we've selected some of the award-winning regions. Come on, take a look at each of them and choose which will be your next destination.
Porto's historic centre
Also known as "Baixa do Porto", the historic center of the city is one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal. The specific area that is designated bu UNESCO is "the area of the medieval town" inside the 14th century walls.
Perfect for a weekend getaway, Porto has a lot to offer butif you are going explicitly to see what is considered the shared cultural heritage of humanity, what are the attractions that you really shouldn't miss within the historic center of "Invicta"?
- São Bento Station - its gorgeous tile panels are characteristic of the era it was built, and a must visit;
- Torre dos Clérigos - this is one of the best known monuments in the city and dates back to the 18th century. 240 steps up, it provides a 360° view over the historic center of Porto;
- Bairro da Sé - this is probably the most iconic neighborhood in the city and, despite the changes caused by tourism, it retains its traditional atmosphere and rustic appearance;
- Palácio da Bolsa - a visit to this palace is especially worthwhile when you arrive at the Arab Hall. With incomparable beauty, it is a must see on any trip to Porto.
These are just some of the "jewels" of the city that we recommend on this getaway. However, if you still have time, you can take a stroll along the Ribeira do Porto and enjoy the view on the Passeio das Virtudes .
Sintra Cultural Landscape
Closer to the capital, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra is another national territory highlighted as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The village of Sintra seems to be something out of a dream with its brightly coloured towering buildings. Formerly known as "Serra da Lua", this is the perfect place to disconnect and relax.
When visiting Sintra there are some spots you can't miss:
- Pena National Park and Palace - anyone who goes to Sintra must visit Pena. A clear example of Romanticism in Portugal, the palace is characterized by its vivid colors that are complemented by the green of the surrounding park;
- Quinta da Regaleira - just outside the historic centre, Quinta da Regaleira is another stunning example of architecture in Sintra, which mixes Manueline, Medieval, Classical and Renaissance styles in a perfect balance;
- Monserrate Park and Palace - with lush gardens and a palace of romantic architecture, it is one of the most beautiful parks in Sintra;
- Castelo dos Mouros - isolated and located high up in the mountains, Castelo dos Mouros is a 10th century fortification;
If you like hiking, we suggest you go through the walls of the Castelo dos Mouros , enjoy the landscape and take the opportunity to breathe the fresh air of the region. As a tip, bring warm and cold clothes, as Sintra has its own micro-climate and the best thing is to be prepared for anything.
Évora Historic Center
Further south in the country, we find Évora, another city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a warmer climate, we would love to be in Alentejo: it is ideal for a few days of rest at this time of year.
So what is ther to see, what can you really not miss when visiting in Évora?
- Praça do Giraldo - right in the heart of Évora, it is the main square of the city and the starting point of practically all itineraries;
- Santo Antão Church - facing the Giraldo square fountain, this is one of the main monuments in the historic center and dates back to the 16th century;
- Roman Temple - one of the many historical memories left in Évora, this one comes from the Roman Empire and is one of the best preserved temples we have today;
- Capela dos Ossos - one of the most iconic monuments in Évora, Capela dos Ossos is a mandatory stop on all visits to the city.
Alto Douro Wine Region
Internationally known as the "Land of Port Wine", the Alto Douro Wine Region is our last suggestion in this list of locations designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. In this part of the country, a visit to the Port Wine cellars and a wine tasting are obviously the biggest attractions.
However, to make the most of the weekend, we have some suggestions for all ages:
- Douro Museum - located in Péso da Régua, this is an excellent starting point to discover the ins and outs of the region;
- Vinhateira de Barcos Village - while this is far from being the most obvious stop, it promises to be worth it. With its traditional stone houses, it is ideal to fill your photo album. We suggest you go there via the N222 and enjoy the scenery of one of the most beautiful roads in Portugal;
- Rabelo Boat Cruise - to explore the Douro river to the fullest, all you have to do is embark on this two-hour trip. Book in advance and let yourself be enchanted by the landscape.
These are just a few suggestions in the Alto Douro Vinhateiro region which, due to its great natural wealth and size, has much more to offer.
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