Costa da Prata

The Costa de Prata, or the Silver Coast of Portugal is located along the coast between Lisbon and Porto. Some of Portugal’s most historic cities, religious artifacts and architecture can be found in this central region.

One of the most romantic cities on the Silver Coast is Aveiro. The charming town lies in the northern part of the region and just oozes romance. Its magnificent world-famous lagoon is a perfect place for a romantic stroll. Moreover, its beautiful canals are reminiscent of those in Venice, Italy. What can be more romantic than sailing along a picturesque canal in one of the colorfully painted moliceiro sailboats?

In addition to Aveiro, this region offers many beautiful historic towns both along the coast and a little further inland. Slightly south and inland is Curia known for the healing properties of its famous mineral water. Nowadays it is a modern health resort, offering a sophisticated assortment of specialized treatments against diseases.

In the center of this region lies the town of Coimbra, where 6 of Portugal’s kings were born. It is also the home of the country’s oldest university, not to mention one of the oldest in Europe. Proud students still walk the narrow cobblestone streets wearing black capes just as they did centuries ago. Nearby is Conímbriga, the site of the most important Roman ruins found in Portugal.

Further to the south is the attractive town of Leiria, with its striking fortified XIIth century castle perched on the hillside above the town. From Leiria you can easily visit the famous Monastery in Batalha and the gothic tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro in Alcobaça.

Just a few miles east is the world-famous sanctuary of Fátima. It is one of the most important pilgrimage centers in the Catholic world where, according to three young shepherds, the Virgin Mary appeared. The religious shrine attracts thousands of faithful pilgrims each year, especially on the 13th of May and October, when the appearances of the Virgin Mary took place.

Nearby is Tomar, a picturesque medieval town. Its Convent of Christ is classified on UNESCO's International Heritage list, but it is its famous Manueline window that is the town's major landmark.

Back towards the coast, you have uncrowded beaches, mixed with typical fishing villages like Nazaré. Here, many fishermen still wear their traditional checkered shirts and black trousers, while the women wear seven layers of colorful petticoats. From Nazaré you can also visit the quaint beach town of São Martinho do Porto, which has an enclosed bay.

Perhaps the most charming of all is Óbidos. Once the wedding present of a queen, this medieval town is surrounded by ancient castle walls that are still in amazingly good shape. Within the high walls lie mazes of narrow cobblestone paths and whitewashed houses with lovely gardens and colorful flowers hanging off every balcony. Óbidos is definitely one of the most appealing towns not only in the region but in all of Portugal.

From its warm uncrowded seaside towns to its historic and religious cities, Portugal’s Silver Coast offers countless settings for an unforgettable Destination Wedding.

Regional Gastronomy:

Roasted suckling pig, various seafood dishes, like Eel Stew and "Caldeirada", regional desserts include "pão de ló", "arrufadas", "ovos moles" and "brisas", sparkling Bairrada wines and Buçaco wines.

Regional Handicrafts:

Copper works, crystal, decorated earthenware, embroideries, linen, wool and cotton, porcelain (especially the famous Vista Alegre brand), pottery and other hand-painted ceramics, wrought-iron works.