Highlights of Central Portugal (Centro)

In search of a more authentic Portuguese experience? Escape the popular destinations such as Lisbon and the Algarve to discover Centro: a quiet, charming region at the heart of Portugal.

The university of Coimbra

The oldest university in Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for any visitor to the Centro region. There is the fabulous Biblioteca Joanina where bats protect the books from insects and an interesting bell tower.

Visit the schist village of Piodão

Hidden between mountain slopes in the Serra de Açor, Piodão is one of Portugal’s prettiest rural villages. A visit here is like stepping back in time. Meet local residents and learn about the history of the border communities.

Cheese-making

At the Casa da you can learn how to make the Serra da Estrela cheese – curdling the milk, separating the curds and whey, mashing the curds and packaging the finished product. Of course, you will also get to sample the finished product.

Aveiro

With its youthful vibe, elegant architecture and canals, the fishing town of Aveiro is a picture-postcard destination. Take a trip on board a Moliceiro boat and a stroll in the fisherman quarter. Do not miss Five o’clock Tea at the Art Nouveau Museum.

Local festivals

Throughout the year the central region of Portugal plays host to a number of local festivals including Burning of the Ribbons in Coimbra (May), Cherry festival in Fundão (Jun), Festas da Ria in Aveiro (Jul), Obidos medieval festival (Jul) and Feira de São Mateus in Viseu (Aug).

Serra da Estrela Natural Park

Covering around 1000 sq.km, the Serra da Estrela is home to the highest mountains in mainland Portugal and a patchwork of charming villages. Outdoor activities are available in abundance – hiking, cycling, kayaking, climbing and canyoning.

Excellent restaurants

We have enjoyed many excellent meals in the Centro region. Some of our favourite eateries are ‘O Bairro’ in Aveiro, offering a modern interpretation of classic Portuguese cuisine; the Quinta das Lagrimas for a gourmet experience and the cool Maria Xica Restaurant in Viseu for tapas.

Visit the Burel factory in Manteigas

Owned and restored by Isabel and Joao from the Casa das Penhas Douradas Design Hotel and Spa, this old wool factory is worthy of a visit. Wall coverings by Burel can be found across the world including the Microsoft offices in Lisbon and Google offices in Madrid.

Spa break

The Palace Hotel Monte Real in Monte Real has one of the best spas we have seen in Portugal. Indulge in some ‘you’ time. Pamper yourself with a massage, body wrap, facial or spa bath, or just relax in the sauna, Jacuzzi and heated relaxation pool.

Machado de Castro National Museum

A fascinating art museum in Coimbra dedicated to the renowned Portuguese sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro. Exhibitions include inscriptions and carved portraits from the 1st century, and scultptures, jewellery, paintings, ceramics and furniture from the 10th-20th centuries.

Conimbriga

Conimbriga is without doubt the most important Roman site in Portugal. Intricate mosaic floors, a complex of baths and an aqueduct still stand and there is also an excellent museum displaying finds from archaeological digs in the area.

Viseu

Surrounded by the lush green Arada, Freita, Caramulo and Montemuro mountains, Viseu is a delight to explore. There are blossoming magnolias (spring), narrow streets, the famous Dão wine region and the romanesque cathedral to discover.

The nature reserve of São Jacinto

This is a 700-hectare coastal reserve of sand dunes, woodland, lagoons and boardwalks. Accessed by boat from Aveiro port, the reserve has a rich bird life with the great tit, herring gull, pochard, heron and mallards all spotted locally.

Monsanto

One of the twelve historical villages of Portugal, Monsanto has evolved over the years around the granite boulders that dominate the landscape. There are narrow lanes, a castle, spectacular views and souvenir shops selling hand-woven goods.