Villas and Apartments to Rent in Central Portugal

Welcome to our selection of holiday homes to rent in the Central Portugal region.

Although poorer than the major cities and not as popular as the beach resorts of the Algarve, Central Portugal still has plenty to offer for the visitors of the region. The area referred to as Central Portugal stretches from Coimbra in the north to Elvas in the south, reaching the outskirts of Lisbon on the coast and inland to the town of Castelo Branco. Much of the region is rural, with small villages, stunning scenery and a number of impressive prehistoric sites. Popular with hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter, Central Portugal is also famous for its fine wines and traditional cuisine.

One of the largest towns in the Central Portugal area is Evora, a medieval settlement with many of its original features preserved, including the 14th century walls and a picturesque main square. The Gothic cathedral is well worth visiting, as are the town's Roman ruins, such as the baths and the Templo Romano, a fine example of ancient Portuguese architecture. Evora is also home to a small university, creating a town centre with lively bars and restaurants, as well as cultural events. There are also several vineyards and a number of Neolithic sites within a short drive of Evora.

Coimbra at the northern extreme of Central Portugal is the largest town in the region, also home to a busy student population and within easy reach of some of the best scenery the area has to offer, while the whitewashed village of Tomar is the site of one of Portugal's most impressive historic buildings, the Convento de Cristo. A medieval fortress and chapel that was once the headquarters of the Knights Templar in the country, the Convento de Cristo is a fascinating way to learn about Portugal's history while exploring a stunning location.

As well as the many vineyards and prehistoric sites dotted throughout the countryside of Central Portugal, there are other natural attractions for tourists to explore and appreciate. The Serra de Estrela is Portugal's highest mountain range, crossed by the Mondego and Zezere Rivers, making it an ideal location for hiking, mountain biking and even skiing in the winter months. The Bucaco Forest is more suited to walkers who prefer a gentle stroll, with a number of marked trails winding their way through the ancient trees, while the coastal town of Nazare is home to stunning beaches and cliff-top paths offering amazing views of the Portuguese coast.

Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Central Portugal? Then below is a selection of holiday villas in Central Portugal and holiday apartments in Central Portugal that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details of holiday rentals in central Portugal or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.