Portugal’s location between the Meditteranean and northern Europe has heavily influenced its diverse and colorful culture. Once dominated by a rich maritime empire, the country retains its love for the ocean in the cities and villages peppered across the land. Historical architecture and vibrant flair make the country perfect for travelers searching for a getaway that has it all. Seriously, the place is incredible in every way.

While the less populated areas have plenty worth exploring, the cities allow people to soak up the culture surrounded by the friendly residents who make it such a great place. Overflowing with cuisine worth celebrating, stunning scenery, and magnificent beaches, these cities in Portugal are the answer to all your travel-related prayers.

8. LISBON
There’s something extremely visually satisfying about a city that looks as though every building, past and present, was built with its surrounding structures in mind. Historical constructions punctuate the modern throughout Lisbon, creating a diverse mix of past and present that simply goes together. The stately, historical São Jorge Castle sits atop a hill and overlooks a pastel-colored paradise, with buildings decorated in hundreds of years worth of colorful and artistic mosaic tiles.

An array of shops, restaurants, and clubs line the cobblestone streets, providing the perfect ambiance to sway through your day to the passionate Fado music Portugal is known for.  Due to its city status, there are plenty of choices to enjoy delicious seafood. Learn a thing or two about the culture at the National Museum of Ancient art during the day, and dance the night away at one of the celebrated nightclubs once the sun, which seems to always shine in Lisbon, sets for the night.

7. SINTRA
For those who’d like to enjoy Portugal in a smaller setting, Sintra is the place to do it. Visitors will be unable to hold back their smiles surrounded by castles that look like they belong in a fairytale. The colorful Pena Palace, built in the 19th century, combines several types of architecture and is encircled by a vibrant green forested park. On some days, clouds descend, and the palace sits atop them, the sight of which will have people wondering if they’re stuck in the best kind of dream.

The entire region is protected, which means visitors will have no difficulty finding serene spots to ponder all the magnificent architecture they’ve seen throughout the day. Exotic gardens accent the town to provide a natural vibe no matter where you go. Eclectic Sintra is a perfect reflection of how Portugal has been influenced by many cultures to create a one-of-a-kind place all its own.

6. NAZARÉ
Nazaré is the place to go for those who find themselves drawn to the ocean. Its pristine beaches have made it a popular resort destination. The waves are known to get pretty big in some places, so surfers hit the swells and provide free entertainment to those soaking up the sun on towels laid atop the pillowy sands. Although it’s famous for its beaches, there is plenty to see in Nazaré aside from the ocean.

Seaside vendors sell dried fish, a spin on jerky no one knows they need until they try it. The fisherman’s district retains its old-world feel, and early risers have the opportunity to watch the colorful boats come into the harbors with their fresh catches. Locals don traditional clothing to create an atmosphere much different from the touristy areas near the beaches. Nazaré is another gem in Portugal that perfectly blends the past with the present, all with a beautiful ocean view.