If you’ve done any traveling throughout Europe, you’ve most likely checked off the common destinations: the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Austria, and Switzerland. But have you visited Portugal? Famous beaches, world-renowned food, historic cities – it seems to be an endless list when you think about the reasons to visit Portugal.

We want to give you seven reasons you should plan a trip to visit Portugal this summer.

1. Visit the countless breathtaking beaches

The Portuguese coast is lined with over 528 miles of white sandy beaches. Large rolling waves, sand dunes, steep cliffs, rock pools – whether you want to lie on the sand, catch the waves, or go explore, Portugal has a beach to accommodate your desire.

And after a day of relaxation or activity, behold a kaleidoscope of colors painted across the sky as the sun sets on the ocean.

2. Walk the streets of the charming Sintra

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytail when you visit the hilltop town of Sintra. Narrow alleyways, beautiful palaces, scenic gardens – you’ll quickly realize why this enchanted town is one of many visitors favorite locations.

3. Explore the countless castles

Much of Portugal’s historical monuments have endured through the centuries. Today, the country has over 150 forts and castles to explore. Visit Castelo de São Jorge and behold the views of Lisbon or take a step back in time at Guimarães to see where Portugal’s first king was born.

4. Savor the award-winning wine

When it comes to wine, most people think of European countries like France, Italy, or Spain. But did you know that wine production is one of Portugal’s most ancient practices? In fact, wine has been made in Portugal since at least 2000 BC.

Thanks to centuries of production, award winning wine has become engrained in Portuguese culture. Visit the Douro Valley and the Alentejo region on a wine tour while you’re in Portugal.

5. Take a scenic gondola ride

One of the most fun, and certainly scenic ways to explore the country is by taking a gondola ride. Venice might be more well known for their canals, but the the northern Portuguese city of Aveiro is also filled with picturesque waterways for you to discover during a peaceful gondola ride.

6. Experience the lively nightlife

Once the nightlife comes alive in Portugal it doesn’t die until the following morning. If you want to burn off some energy or enjoy an electrifying night on the town, there’s certainly a place for you.

Dance the night away at one of Vilamoura’s exclusive clubs or kick back with friends in one of Lisbon’s street bars in Bairro Alto.

7. Be renewed

Rather than exploring, maybe you need to visit Portugal for a completely different reason. Too often we’re unable to escape the hustle and bustle of life even while on vacation. Corc Yoga's "The Renewal" retreat is the perfect opportunity to satisfy your inner wanderlust, while at the same time realigning your wellness journey.

We invite you to Corc Yoga’s first annual retreat: The Renewal – A Cultivation of Community, Wellness, & Yoga, Dedicated to the Beauty of Cork. The retreat is June 27 – July 3, 2021, and will be held at Tivoli Évora Ecoresort.

Click here to join us on another life-changing trip to Évora as we celebrate self-care, community, and sustainability.

Summary

What’s the reason you plan to visit Portugal this summer? Is it to lay on one of it’s many white sandy beaches, behold the lovely facades of historical towns, or will you join us in Évora to embrace community and wellness? Whatever your reason may be, Portugal is the perfect destination for your summer travel.