4 Best Sights in Viseu, Coimbra and Central Portugal

This massive stone structure with twin square bell towers anchors Cathedral Square, lending the plaza a dramatic air. Construction on this cathedral was started in the 13th century and continued off and on until the 18th century. Inside, massive Gothic pillars support a network of twisted, knotted forms that reach across the high, vaulted roof, and a dazzling, gilded, baroque high altar contrasts with the otherwise somber stone. The lines of the 18th-century upper level are harsh when compared with the graceful Italianate arches of the 16th-century lower level. To the right of the mannerist main portal is a double-tier cloister, which is connected to the cathedral by a well-preserved Gothic-style doorway. The cathedral's Sacred Art Museum has reliquaries from the 12th and 13th centuries. For great views of the cathedral, head a block south to the tiny square of Praça de Dom Duarte.

Quinta de Cabriz is among the best-known wineries in the region. Located 39 km (24 miles) south of Viseu in the community of Carregal do Sal, it produces red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines. The hearty Cabriz Colheita Seleccionada red—which spends six months in French oak—is one notable award winner. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the cellars followed by a meal in the restaurant: local dishes like roasted kid are a strong suit and wine pairings, naturally, are excellent. Advance booking is required for visits and for the restaurant. 

If the cathedral looks like a fortress, the 16th-century Igreja da Misericórdia across from it looks like a palace. The intricate rococo details around the windows and unusual entranceway are more dramatic than the simple, unfussy interior. An adjoining museum has a good collection of sacred art.

Housed in a former seminary beside the cathedral, this palatial museum was originally created to display the works of 16th-century local boy Grão Vasco, who became Portugal's most famous painter. In addition to a wonderful collection of altarpieces by Vasco and his students, the museum has a wide-ranging collection of other art and objects, from Flemish masterpieces to Asian furniture.