Lisbon:
The capital of Portugal since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, Lisbon is a legendary city with over 20 centuries of History. The Alfama is one of the oldest quarters in Lisboa. Since it largely survived the earthquake of 1755, the area still retains much of its original layout. Adjacent to the Alfama are the likewise old quarters of Castelo and Mouraria, on the western and northern slopes of the hill that is crowned by St. George's Castle. Every year in June, the streets of all three quarters come alive with the feasts in honour of the popular saints. The Graça quarter and the churches of São Vicente de Fora and Santa Engrácia are within walking distance of this area. Radiant skies brighten the monumental city, with its typical tile covered building façades and narrow Medieval streets, where one can hear the fado being played and sung at night. The place for exquisite shopping, exciting nightlife, and interesting museums.
Around Lisbon:
Beach-lovers can choose between the more cosmopolitan Cascais Cascais and Estoril, full of bars and discotheques, to the long stretches of sand in Costa da Caparica or to fishing towns like Ericeira, which still keeps some of its old traditions.
The deeply wooded slopes of Sintra, with its beautiful palaces and parks, lead to the rugged coastline which faces the Atlantic.
Vila Franca de Xira, a modest-looking town surrounded by industries, is known as a centre for horse and bull rearing and its bullfights attract many visitors.
An enormous baroque palace and monastery dominates the small town of Mafra; another royal palace can be seen in Queluz, with its sumptuous Throne Room and elaborate gardens.