Why There's So Much More to Portugal Than the Beaches

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A slice of a country with just over 10 million people, Portugal has flown under the radar in comparison to other European countries as a global travel destination. But there's been a noticeable uptick in buzz. In 2017, just over 12.7 million people visited the country—a 12 percent increase from 2016. But why? Portugal generates tourist traffic thanks to its incredible wines, charming and historic cities with bright sunshine year round (did you know Lisbon is said to be Europe's sunniest capital city?), and exquisite beaches with rolling swell for surfers. But while the beaches are magical, Portugal isn't just about the beaches.

Lisbon: Lisbon has gained the most hype among tourists, and for good reason. There are endless things to see and do in the country's capital, and it's drop-dead gorgeous, making it a no-brainer pit stop. Thanks to the relaxed vibe, you'll find yourself abandoning plans here, getting wrapped up in conversation with locals, and settling in at a cafe for hours.

EXPLORE THE CITY ON FOOT: Reminiscent of San Francisco, Lisbon is also built on exactly seven hills, comes with colorful cable cars and, perhaps most obviously, boasts a huge golden suspension bridge built by the same construction company. The city is covered in striking tile facades of bright blues, bold yellows, crisp whites, and pastel pinks. You'll want to walk and walk and walk until even your most comfortable shoes aren't so comfortable anymore, and your camera is filled with pictures of historical structures, statues, and colorful walls. 

TAKE IN THE VIEW: In search of the best view of the bridge? You'll find Rio Maravilha is hard to beat. Located within the hip hangout known as the LX Factory, the rooftop reveals sultry views of the bridge at sunset, where people gather with cocktails in hand for pictures.

HOP ON THE TRAM: Tram 28 seems is the popular choice of transportation throughout the city. A stop on this route brings you to the Alfama District, where tiled chapels, grandiose cathedrals, and remnants of old city walls bring you back centuries. The nearby neighborhood of Graça is just as charming with its medieval streets and quaint local markets.

Algarve: It would be an injustice not to discuss the special southern region of Portugal called the Algarve. You can certainly grab a beach towel and lay on the sand for the day, but even here, the beaches come only second to what else there is to offer. Lagos is one of the most popular towns in the region.

SEEK OUT WELLNESS RETREATS: The Algarve has become a wellness retreat hub, offering solitude atop cliffs where mind and body regeneration come together. And while you can certainly take advantage of such planned retreats, there are plenty of opportunities to include the wellness aspect into your own vacation.