With the Atlantic Ocean to its west and Spain to its east, Portugal is perched right on the edge of continental Europe – but it has certainly not been on the fringes when it comes to world history.

Continuously inhabited since prehistoric times – with caves covered in rock art to prove it – Portugal is home to an extraordinary collection of historical treasures. Its ancient castles, fortresses, monasteries and wine regions have been home to Celts, Romans and Vikings. It has 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (which is a lot for such a small country). The wealth produced by the former Portuguese empire is evident in opulent historic areas of Lisbon, the nation’s capital. White-sand beaches, snow-covered mountains and remote volcanic islands all make picturesque tourist destinations.

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