Center of Portugal

The Monastery of Batalha, officially the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, is one of Central Portugal’s greatest architectural landmarks and a monument closely linked to the country’s history. Built following King João I’s victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, it became a symbol of the victory and of the new Avis dynasty. Constructed over several generations, the monastery showcases remarkable Gothic architecture, from its soaring church and Founder's Chapel to the richly decorated Manueline Royal Cloister and the striking Unfinished Chapels. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, Batalha beautifully reflects the close connection between Portuguese history, architecture and royal ambition. 

The Monastery of Alcobaça, in Central Portugal, is one of the country’s most important medieval monuments. Founded in the 12th century and closely linked to the early Portuguese monarchy, it became a major Cistercian centre. Its vast church, medieval cloister and well-preserved monastic spaces reflect the order’s ideals of prayer, work, discipline and simplicity. 

The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 by King Dinis, is Portugal’s oldest university and one of Europe’s oldest. For centuries, its students, professors, traditions, and historic buildings have shaped Coimbra’s identity, making it a major historic university centre. Today, it remains an important cultural landmark, with its historic buildings forming part of the University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. 

Central Portugal is a diverse region where history, nature, and culture blend: from castles and universities to beaches, mountains, and pilgrimage routes. It spans from Aveiro to Serra da Estrela and from Fátima to Nazaré, offering an authentic Portuguese experience rich in heritage, landscapes, and cuisine. 

Central Portugal is a land of contrasts — from wild mountain parks and thermal springs to medieval towns and Atlantic beaches — and its eco-hotels reflect that same diversity. Whether nestled in schist villages or set on organic farms, these sustainable stays offer a quiet alternative to mass tourism, rooted in local culture, nature, and slow travel values.