Portugal is an unspoiled jewel on the European tourist map. It has a rich and turbulent history of seafaring and discovery dating back to the 15th century when Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama put to sea in search of a passage to India.
Modern Portugal contains enough World Heritage Sites and other natural and cultural wonders to keep any visitor busy for a long, long time. Portugal stands for a windswept coastline (Cabo do Sao Vicente, Castelejo, Cabo Espichel), a pristine beach where fishermen mend their nets beside brightly painted sardine boats (Albufeira, Bordeira, Praia do Camilo) or a cobbled street overlooked by dazzling whitewashed houses with wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs.  Portugal is a land of infinite options. You can mingle with the crowds in one of the more sophisticated beach resorts or wander through the medieval quarters of historic cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga or Coimbra. Portugal is one of Europe's premier golfing destinations while the tennis schools are second-to-none. You could try your hand at big game fishing or horseriding, learn how to windsurf or water ski. Other unmissable experiences include Fado (Portugal's answer to soul music), country fairs where centuries-old folk traditions are lovingly reenacted, port wine tastings and mouthwatering fish suppers. Portugal is a country ripe for discovery.