We are in a region where the green of the mountains contrasts with the blue of the Atlantic Ocean, where the cities combine tradition with modernity, and the villages are steeped in history. Explore colourful fishing villages, the stunning coastline and monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Enjoy the natural landscapes of the Serra da Estrela mountains, take a ride in a traditional Moliceiro boat in Aveiro and discover the magic of Obidos, a medieval town with an imposing wall and cobbled streets that evoke the past.
You can visit Central Portugal at any time of the year. In spring, the temperatures are pleasant and the countryside comes to life with blossoming trees, particularly the cherry trees in Fundão. In autumn, the leaves of the trees and vines tinge the landscape with shades of red and gold. These are the best seasons for hiking and outdoor activities.
If you like hot weather, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the beaches along the coast and the banks of numerous rivers. In winter, the colder weather is an invitation to savour hearty meals and experience the magic of the snow on the Serra da Estrela mountains.
This is an extensive region which can be accessed using various means of transport. Most airlines fly to Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon and Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto. You can choose one of these airports depending on whether your destination is further north or further south. If you are in mainland Portugal, the train and bus are good options. If you prefer to travel by car to ensure greater flexibility and get around with no restrictions, the central region has a good road network.
The deep-rooted agricultural traditions of Central Portugal produce a wide range of ingredients which result in delicious dishes such as roast suckling pig, the renowned chanfana goat stew, roast goat and homemade sausages. This region also has an abundance of fresh seafood and fish from the Atlantic Ocean. Specialities include fish stew, fish soup and clams “à Bulhão Pato”.
As for desserts, there is no shortage of delicious options such as Ovar sponge cake, ovos moles de Aveiro and pastel de Tentugal. You should also try the tasty and intense Serra da Estrela cheese. To accompany your meals, try some of the region´s many fine wines.
Discover the beauty of the Serra da Estrela mountains and the surrounding areas, while hiking along trails that wind through peaceful forests and diving into the cool waters of natural pools. Visit Aveiro, known as the "Venice of Portugal" due to its picturesque canals and colourful Moliceiro boats. The area is home to the São Jacinto dunes where the sand and wild vegetation create a unique environment.
A little further north, you can take a stroll along the stunning Passadiços do Paiva, where you can admire gorges and waterfalls along this spectacular trail. If you prefer an enchanting, historical setting, visit the picturesque town of Obidos and take in the natural surroundings of the lagoon.
The past comes to life in every monument in this part of the country. In Viseu, take a walk through the historic streets and visit the magnificent Cathedral; places that evoke the grandeur of times gone by. In the charming medieval town of Obidos, its walls and castle take you back to ancient times, revealing all its majesty. In Idanha-a-Nova, the Roman ruins and its remarkable castle bear witness to a long cultural heritage.
Explore the schist villages of the Serra da Lousã mountains, such as Piódão and Casal de São Simão, where stone houses blend into the mountainous landscape, offering a delightful journey back in time through traditions and natural beauty.
