Map of Portugal

Looking at a map of Portugal, one sees a rectangular country in the Iberian Peninsula that is bordered by Spain on the east and the Atlantic Ocean on the west. In addition, any good map of Portugal includes the volcanic islands of Azores, located 900 miles west of Lisbon in the Atlantic, and the Madeira Islands, also in the Atlantic, approximately 550 miles from the capital.

Although there are currently 18 different districts in Portugal, the mainland is commonly divided up into five main regions for geographical purposes.

Porto & Northern Portugal Map

The northern section of the country, which includes the city of Porto is Portugal’s oldest region. The Douro river originates in Spain and winds its way through the area to the Atlantic.portugal and lisbon map The region has beautiful waterfront areas, but is famous for its vineyards where Port wine is produced. Inland, there is a large national park area covering the mountains of Peneda, Soajo and Gerês.

Beiras

Beiras is the traditional name for the central region of Portugal running south of Douro river and north of Tagus river. The coastal area is lined with beaches and fishing villages, while the interior is primarily mountains and plateaus. Viewing a map of Spain and Portugal, one can identify the Estrela Mountain Range, the highest in continental Portugal, which runs through the central region.

Lisbon & Tagus Valley

Lisbon (Lisboa), has been the capital of Portugal since 1255. It is located near the ocean, where the Tagus river creates an estuary as it empties into the Atlantic. The area ranges from beautiful beaches and sea cliffs, to lush river valley. Cape Roca (Cabo da Roca), Europe’s westernmost point, is located in this region as are several historic sites and structures.

Alentejo

The region of Alentejo is comprised of a series of rolling plains. The northern section of the region is known for its medieval castles while further south, the temperatures become warmer and the towns less frequent. As with all of Portugal’s regions, the western coast offers Atlantic beaches.

Algarve

Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is best known for its warm temperatures and long sandy beaches that have long drawn tourists from around the globe. Although the northern half of the region is bordered by mountains and hosts fig trees, orange groves and other agricultural products.

A detailed map of Portugal depicts additional information about the country and is a helpful resource for anyone planning to visit the country.