Lisbon: Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe and is sprinkled with cultural sites and architectural gems that date back centuries. With an excellent climate throughout the year and rich biodiversity, Portugal is a dream destination for tourists. It’s also deemed a very safe country for solo travelers and families. There are many beautiful places and things to do in Portugal; but the medieval towns of Portugal are on the next level of experiential travel.

And, you can’t enjoy the medieval towns if you can’t explore it the way it was meant to be when they were built. So we recommend walking or even cycling in medieval towns like:

Guarda – Walk around the Gothic influenced Guarda Cathedral, and you will pass through the pages of history and Guarda’s defensive walls, stone passages, and perhaps even reach the limits of the modern, and of course don’t miss the Praça Luís de Camões the central square right in front of the cathedral. There are no cars allowed in the area. Don’t miss the museum in Guarda as it gives you the entire history and background of the place.

Viseu – Just like Guarda, Viseu is best experienced on foot. From its 12th century cathedral to the magnificent twisting alleys and mysterious labyrinths of the Centro Historico to the wherever-you-stand-it’s-a-great-photo Adro da Sé (a monumental square built on granite boulders) to the 14th-century park Parque do Fontelo.

Lamego – With origins before the Roman occupation, Lamego is an elegant old town. Perhaps it’s the promise of good wine and the maze of terraced vineyards that pulls in the tourist to this region, but it’s the art and Baroque architecture that keeps them there. Museu de Lamego the glorious episcopal palace is a treat to the tourist with its centuries-old paintings, sculptures, archaeology, furniture, and artifacts from many eras. But of course, when in Lamego climbing the 686 steps of the theatrical stairway built in the 1300s to reach Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios is a bucket-list-worthy adventure. And through the Lamego Cathedral went through centuries of refinements it still maintains its 12th-century charm. Of course, Lamego is referred to as the capital of Baroque in Portugal so a leisurely walk across the town is a must-do.

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