Winner of 2018's "World's Best Travel Destination," Portugal is no longer lingering in the shadows of European heavyweights such as France, Italy or Spain. Rich history, tasty food and a pleasant climate are only scratching the surface of this enticing coastal-country. You can visit medieval castles leftover from the age of exploration, come alive in a buzzing nightlife scene, surf along golden beaches or simply enjoy a glass of delicious wine. Whatever is it you prefer to do, the Portuguese experience offers something for everyone.

Pasteis de Nata are a traditional Portuguese pastry that are best described as an egg tart. They are cheap, delicious and easy to find-like in every bakery and cafe.

Good weather, consistent waves and charismatic locals make for a top quality surf-destination. During your stay in Portugal, make sure to head to Peniche for some of the most renowned surfing in the country. There are plenty of affordable shops to rent gear and book lessons. If you're there during the fall, don't miss out on watching the pros compete during the World Surf League.

With so much to see, there's no sense in limiting yourself to one destination. Travel within the country is very easy thanks to a good road system and reliable train schedule. If you'd prefer, you can rent a car or take the train to explore more of the country.

Legend has it that Lisbon is built on seven hills. If you've walked the city before, you'd argue that the number is much higher! Each hill, or "miradouro," has its own story to tell. Climb to the top of Miradouro da Nossa Sephora do Monte for a view over the entire city. Be sure to pack your walking shoes!

To talk about Portuguese cuisine without mentioning codfish, or "Bacalhau," is impossible. In every market, the treasured fish is doused in salt and dried under the hot sun. There are many ways to prepare and enjoy the culinary staple, but try "Bacalhau com Natas" (cod in cream) for an oven-baked fish casserole. Talk about some Portuguese comfort food.

Step aside France and Italy, there's a new European wine destination. Portuguese wines have quietly been winning contest after contest and are now finally receiving their share of the limelight. Their most famous wine is Port, but Vinho Verde, a white wine, is a close second.

The Douro River Valley is quickly becoming a vacation destination, thanks in part to its world-famous vineyards. While visiting the picturesque valley, take a cruise in an old wooden boat and relive what it was like to deliver wine a few hundred years ago. They even let you sample the wine onboard.

Learn about big wave history at Forte de Sao Miguel in Nazare. The small town of Nazare lies between Lisbon and Porto and is world-renowned for building-sized waves crashing into its shores. Make sure to see the famous lighthouse and the surfers shrine. If you're lucky, you may even see some brave surfers riding the waves.

One of the best ways to feel a part of the Portuguese culture is to listen to their traditional folk music called "Fado." Born in the streets of Lisbon, Fado music can be traced back hundreds of years as a form of storytelling. The pleasant music can be found at numerous bars around Lisbon, so be sure to stop by one during your stay.

Located at an old fabric construction plant, LxFactory is one of the most interesting places you can visit in Portugal. Today, the old building is home to around 200 business from unique cafes and pop-up stores to local art galleries. For the bookworm in all of us, be sure to check out the LxLibrary where you'll find books stacked from floor to ceiling.

A booming wine industry means there will be some demand for cork. However, cork isn't only used for wine stoppers in Portugal. You can buy recycled cork products such as shoes, handbags, wallets and anything else you can think of.

If you are going to enjoy some port wine, visit the city where its name is derived. Wine connoisseurs will rejoice as Porto is home to some of the best wine in the world. You can visit vineyards in the north, wine-cellars in the city or simply enjoy a glass along with your dinner.

Visit Lisbon's UNESCO world heritage Belem Tower along the harbor during your stay in Lisbon. It stands as a military monument to Portugal's age of discovery. The tower isn't only for the history buff; it's also a great spot to watch the sunset over the water.

Spend some time touring the grand Jeronimos Monastery, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the gothic architectural marvel and explore the current museum. Also, The great explorer Vasco da Gama is buried here.

The Sanctuary of Christ the King is a Catholic monument towering over the Tagus River and Ponte 25 Bridge, inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. While it's not part of the mainland, it's definitely worth the short trip for some amazing views over the city.

A short day trip from Lisbon, Sintra is one of the most colorful places in Portugal. Pastel palaces are tucked into lush hillsides with winding cobblestone streets guiding the way. Be sure to check out Pena Palace, a colorful castle that even makes Disney jealous.

Relax in the sun at Cascais, a Portuguese fishing town located just west of Lisbon. You can stop by the busy marina, surf at the beach or tour a museum for a fun day-trip away from the city.

You don't need to visit Rome to relive some Roman history. Visit the city of Evora and see the historic Templo Romano Evora, also called the Templo de Diana for its dedication to the Roman goddess Diana. The temple lies in the center of the city square and can be viewed with no entrance fees.

Fatima is one of the most important religious pilgrimage sites in the world. Thousands of people gather every month to visit the holy city. Around the plaza are many restaurants and shops for food and souvenirs beneath the great basilica. If you have the chance, make sure you see the nighttime torch-light processions.

Explore seaside cliffs, sandy coves and a walled-off old town in Lagos. A plethora of beaches cater to the watermen with endless activities and sports. When the sun disappears, head to town for some of Portugal's best nightlife.

The beautiful grouping of islands lying a few hours west of mainland Portugal offers lush rainforests, enchanting wildlife and powerful volcanoes. The Azores islands have been relatively unbeknownst to the average traveler, but this island paradise can't stay a secret forever. Make a trip to the tropical paradise-it'll be well worth your time.

Rent a sailboat and enjoy the best view of Lisbon and the surrounding monuments. Try your hand at steering the boat or simply relax with a glass of champagne. Be sure to go during sunset to enjoy some beautiful light.

The Alfama district is one of Lisbon's oldest and is lined with traditional cafes and shops. You can take the historic tram 28 or simply venture the winding streets by foot. Climb to the top of Miradouro das Portas do Sol for a view that stretches from city to sea.

Baixa is the historic heart of the city of Lisbon. Get your shopping fix here or simply relax and people-watch. In Baixa, you can ride the Santa Justa Lift for a convenient and fun form of transportation while admiring a great view of the city below.

Any trip to Portugal is incomplete without a ride on a colorful trolley. The loud, rickety and old-fashioned ride is a great form of transportation and a whole lot of fun. The colorful yellow sides and wood-paneled interior make you feel as though you are riding in an elegant antique.