Some of Portugal's finest monuments are in the center of the country. Three of them are World Heritage Sites: the magnificent abbey in Batalha, the country's biggest church in Alcobaça, and the castle of the Knights Templar in Tomar.

Along the coast are some popular beaches, especially by the colorful fishing town of Nazaré and São Martinho do Porto, from where it is also possible to reach the world-famous shrine of Fátima.

A convenient base from which to visit Fatima or the great abbeys at Batalha and Alcobaça, is Leiria, a growing city with a charming old town overlooked by an imposing castle.

Other interesting castles are found nearby in Porto de Mós, Almourol, and in Obidos, one of the country's best preserved medieval villages. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, spectacular underground caverns can be visited at Mira D'Aire.

Top 5 EXPERIENCES in Central Portugal

1. Admiring the architectural wonders of Batalha and Alcobaça.
2. Walking through the ramparts of Obidos, one of Europe's prettiest medieval villages.
3. Exploring the delightful town of Tomar after visiting the impressive castle and convent of the Knights Templar.
4. Feeling the charm of a traditional fishing village (Nazaré or Peniche).
5. Joining the pilgrims in Fatima, one of the world's greatest Catholic shrines for inspiration or out of simple curiosity.

Places to Visit in Central Portugal

Obidos - The wedding present town; country's prettiest medieval village Batalha - European Gothic masterpiece; spectacular underground caves Alcobaça - Europe's greatest Cistercian temple Tomar - Manueline flourishes in "the home of the knights"; "a haunted castle" Nazare - Colorful, traditional fishing village Fatima - Famous shrine of the Catholic world Leiria - An old castle in a modern city Peniche - A dream-like nature preserve with underwater activities; fine sandy beaches Santarém - The country's bullfighting capital; Gothic churches