Portugal Guide
Estremadura and Ribatejo
The provinces of Estremadura and Ribatejo have played a crucial role in each phase of the nation's history and have the monuments to prove it. Although they encompass a comparatively small area, the provinces boast an extraordinary concentration of vivid architecture. The Estremaduran coast provides an excellent complement to the sights, and if you're simply seeking sun and sand it's not a bad alternative to the Algarve.
Highlights
1 Ilha da Berlenga Take the boat from Peniche to a rocky windswept island bird sanctuary.
2 Óbidos After the coach tours have left, enjoy the atmospheric streets of this walled medieval town.
3 Nazaré For seaside frolics, you can't beat the biggest, brashest resort on the Estremaduran coast.
4 Alcobaça The twelfth-century monastery at Alcobaça is one of Europe's most impressive Cistercian monuments.
5 Pinhal de Leiria The beautiful beaches near Leiria are backed by miles of pine forest.
6 Grutas de Mira de Aire Visit the most spectacular underground caves in the country.
7 Fátima Penitents, pilgrims and kitsch souvenirs – it can only be Fátima, one of the Catholic Church's most popular shrines.
8 Pegadas dos Dinossáurios Don't miss the tracks of Portugal's dinosaurs – as clear today as when they were made 175 million years ago.
9 Tomar The stunning Convento de Cristo is the undisputed highlight, but Tomar itself is a gem of a town.