Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city of contrasts.

The traditional neighbourhoods with their narrow winding cobbled streets are strikingly different to the modern and cosmopolitan areas.

However, the modernity hasn't robbed Lisbon of its character and the city manages to maintain its authenticity. Just visit Alfama, Graça or Chiado to see this for yourself. The Tagus continues to play an important role in city life and it's next to the river that you'll find some of the most pleasant spots in town.

The greater Lisbon area also includes cities such as Almada, on the other side of the river where you can visit the Cristo Rei Monument. Around 50 km to the south is Setúbal, which sits on the estuary of the River Sado and well known for its tasty deep fried cuttlefish. On the other side of this city lies the Tróia peninsula with its many natural attractions and excellent beaches.

To the north of Lisbon you'll find Lezíria do Tejo. This is the Ribatejo region which is crossed by the River Tagus which gives the area its livelihood and which has carved out the landscape and led to the region's development. For many years fishing was one of the main activities but today it is industry and agriculture which provide the principal areas of work.

The Ribatejo is also the land of horses and bulls, and of course bullfighting. Santarém is the capital of the region and has some of the most striking examples of Gothic architecture in the country. From the castle walls you can see the river. This is where King Afonso Henriques entered the city where he conquered it from the Moors.

The entire Ribatejo is synonymous with excellent wining and dining, from the traditional "sopa da pedra" (meat and vegetables soup) to roasted chestnuts with salted cod, and "açorda de sável" (bread and garlic soup with shad). All washed down with the amazing local wines.

In the mid Tagus region, we suggest visits to cities such as Abrantes, Tomar and Golegã. Places rich in heritage and traditions such as the Festa dos Tabuleiros, the Festival of the Trays in Tomar and the horse fair in Golegã, events which attract thousands of tourists every year.

Discover this region and stay at one of the many hotels in Lisbon or the north which we have selected for you.