When it comes to destinations, it’s seldom that a country can offer you almost anything your heart desires. But Portugal truly has it all.

From great weather, ancient history and rich culture to stunning vistas and architecture, and from world-class wines to pristine beaches, you’ll be spoiled for choice from the moment you arrive. There are so many options to choose from, that we really struggled to come up with our top five!

1. The Douro Valley

The Douro River runs from east to west across northern Portugal, flowing into the Atlantic Ocean at the country’s second-largest city, Porto. The Douro Valley is world famous for olives and almonds, but especially its vineyards and its local speciality: port wine.

For thousands of years wine has been produced here, and the valley is perfect for taking a wine tour, meeting the local producers and sampling their products. For a lazier alternative, you could take in a leisurely cruise down the river (and still enjoy the wines!)

2. The architecture

Just about everywhere you look in Portugal, you’ll be able to feast your eyes on gorgeous architecture: palaces, castles, cathedrals, monasteries and historical districts abound.

The capital, Lisbon, of course, is filled with fascinating architecture: visit the Jerónimos Monastery, built to commemorate the explorer Vasco da Gama’s journey to India (and which includes his tomb), the nearby Belém Tower and the majestic castle of São Jorge, or explore the shops and chic cafés in the historical districts of Alfama, Baixa and Chiado.

But Lisbon is by no means the only place with stunning buildings to visit: for example, check out the Monte Palace Museum and its exotic gardens on the island of Madeira, the ornate interiors of the Romanesque-Gothic Porto Cathedral, or the historic University of Coimbra (and the Roman ruins at nearby Conímbriga).

3. The beaches

If you love soaking up the sun, look no further than the Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region. It’s renowned for its glittering beaches and clear blue waters. You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for, from popular seaside resorts to secluded coves that you can only reach by boat.

If you’re a surfer, you have to take a pilgrimage to the so-called “European Pipeline” at Peniche. The city’s Supertubos is regarded as one of the best surfing breaks in all of Europe. (And if you’re a beginner, Peniche’s the perfect place to take some lessons.)

4. The food

From lip-smacking seafood to the pastéis de nata, Portugal’s renowned custard tartlet, Portugal is filled with delicious food choices.

But you don’t have to confine yourself to traditional Portuguese cuisine; the country has a thriving fine dining scene and no matter where you are, you’ll have a tough time deciding where to eat out.

5. The natural beauty

Whether the volcanic vistas of the Azores or the seaside cliffs of the Algarve, or pretty much anywhere else in Portugal, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty. But few places come close to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, in the far north of the country.

Get closer to nature on one of the park’s hiking trails, where you’re likely to encounter megaliths and waterfalls, ancient villages and Roman bridges, not to mention the rich biodiversity. If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse wild horses.