Central

The Central Region of Portugal is one of the seven NUTS II level regions (Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistical Purposes) in Portugal. It is located in the center of the country and covers a diverse geographic area, including coastal areas, mountains and rural areas. The region is made up of 12 NUTS III sub-regions.

Some of the highlights in the Central Region of Portugal include:

1. Aveiro: Known as the "Venice of Portugal" due to its canals, Aveiro is a coastal city with a charming atmosphere. It has beautiful beaches, historic architecture and is famous for its soft eggs.

2. Coimbra: A historic city that is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Coimbra. The historic center of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a rich cultural experience.

3. Leiria: With its imposing castle and strategic location, Leiria is a city rich in history. Nearby, one can find the famous Batalha Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Fatima: An important religious pilgrimage site, Fatima is visited by millions of people every year due to the apparitions of the Virgin Mary reported in 1917.

5. Serra da Estrela: The highest mountain in mainland Portugal is located in this region. Serra da Estrela is known for its impressive scenery and is a popular destination both in winter, for snow sports, and in summer, for hiking and outdoor activities.

6. Viseu: A historic city with a tranquil atmosphere, Viseu offers charming architecture, museums and a rich cultural heritage.

7. Castelo Branco: This city is known for its medieval castle and its connection to the textile industry. The surrounding region has stunning natural landscapes.

8. The coastal region: The Centro Region also has beautiful beaches along the coast, such as in Figueira da Foz and Nazaré, the latter famous for its great surfable waves.

This is just an overview of the rich and diverse Central Region of Portugal. It offers a mix of history, culture, natural landscapes and unique experiences that appeal to locals and visitors alike.

Area: 28 462 km²

Population: 2.217 million (2019) Eurostat

Density: 79 inhabitants/km²

NUTS II: PT16

Capital: Coimbra

Climate: Mediterranean (Csa and Csb)