Sprawling across seven hills overlooking the River Tagus, Lisbon is the energetic capital of Portugal and just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic beaches. It combines ancient ruins and atmospheric cobblestone streets with striking modern architecture, outstanding museums and eclectic neighbourhoods. Take in the sweeping views from the Moorish-inspired São Jorge Castle and admire the beautiful tile work at the National Azulejo Museum, then discover the lively nightlife in the streets of Bairro Alto.

Serving as the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra centres around a beautifully preserved old town and its Romanesque Sé Velha cathedral. It’s home to one of the world’s oldest universities that is renowned for its magnificent baroque library and boasts a lively student atmosphere in its alternative bars and cafes. Soak up the city views while kayaking on the Mondego River and listen to the distinctive sounds of Coimbra Fado performed on traditional guitarras.

Famed for its fortified port wine, Porto clusters around the medieval Ribeira district on the banks of the Douro River. It’s home to the lavish 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa and its Moorish-inspired Arab Room, as well as the highly-ornate Church of São Francisco. Sample its world-renowned port on a tour of the Vila Nova de Gaia cellars and admire the cutting-edge contemporary artworks at the acclaimed Serralves Museum.

Sprawling across seven hills overlooking the River Tagus, Lisbon is the energetic capital of Portugal and just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic beaches. It combines ancient ruins and atmospheric cobblestone streets with striking modern architecture, outstanding museums and eclectic neighbourhoods. Take in the sweeping views from the Moorish-inspired São Jorge Castle and admire the beautiful tile work at the National Azulejo Museum, then discover the lively nightlife in the streets of Bairro Alto.