Centro de Portugal
Coimbra University, Óbidos, Nazaré, Aveiro, UNESCO Monasteries, Serra da Estrela, Historic Villages, Schist Villages
Centro de Portugal, the Centre of Portugal, stretches from the Atlantic coast to the Spanish border between Lisbon and Porto. It is a region of university cities, walled villages, forested mountains and wild beaches, and holds a remarkable concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities, is its cultural heart. Nearby, the monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaça and the Convent of Christ in Tomar are masterpieces of Portuguese architecture. Walled Óbidos is one of the country's most picturesque towns, and Fátima is a major place of pilgrimage.
On the coast, Nazaré is famous for some of the biggest waves ever surfed, and Aveiro is known for its canals and painted moliceiro boats. Inland, the Serra da Estrela rises to the highest point of mainland Portugal, and networks of historic villages and schist villages offer a glimpse of traditional mountain life.
Top Reasons to Visit Centro de Portugal
1. Coimbra
Visit the University of Coimbra and its baroque Joanina Library, and hear Coimbra fado in the old town.
2. UNESCO Monasteries
Explore the Monastery of Batalha, the Monastery of Alcobaça and the Convent of Christ in Tomar.
3. Óbidos
Walk the medieval walls of this whitewashed village and try ginja cherry liqueur in a chocolate cup.
4. Nazaré and the Coast
Watch giant winter waves from the lighthouse at Nazaré and explore the canals of Aveiro by moliceiro boat.
5. Serra da Estrela
Hike the highest mountains in mainland Portugal and taste the region's famous Serra da Estrela cheese.
6. Historic and Schist Villages
Discover fortified villages such as Monsanto and Piódão's slate houses clinging to the hillside.
