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15 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

Portugal is easily one of Europe’s most visited countries, thanks in large part to its affordability, ideal holiday weather, and its incomparable attractions.

Situated on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal’s geography ranges from lush farmlands and medieval towns in its centre, to gorgeous vineyards and mountains in the north, to the sensational beaches of the Algarve in the south.

Portugal’s history and culture go back to the 16th century, when the country was a major maritime empire; there’s something to see everywhere you look.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Portugal :

Once the capital of Portugal, this quaint and charming town is a treasure chest of stunning gardens, historical sites, fado music, and dynamic culture.

Located near the Mondego River in the centre of Portugal, Coimbra is a city of medieval churches and an intricate maze of cobbled streets that are so stunning; you’ll think you’ve slipped back in time. In fact, many people consider Coimbra to be the most romantic city in the country.

The town gets its energy and influence from the University of Coimbra. Founded in 1209, and one of the oldest universities in Europe, you can see the entire city from its courtyard.

Roughly halfway between Massachusetts and mainland Portugal, you’ll find the Azores . This archipelago is made of nine volcanic islands scattered over several hundred nautical miles and best known for the hot mineral springs, first-class whale watching (named one of the top ten spots on the planet), and lovely seaside towns.

Each island has its own distinct identity, but they’re all rich with beautiful beaches and green landscapes. Sao Miguel, “The Green Island,” is the largest of the nine while Pico is home to the tallest mountain in all of Portugal.

If you’re an adventurer, this is where you want to be. All water sports can be found here as well as cycling and horseback riding; primarily in Vila Franca do Campo, the largest town in The Azores.

This beautiful town , that sits at the foot of a mountain range bearing the same name, is so marvellous that UNESCO has named the entire place a world heritage site.

The designation is for “cultural landscape,” specially created for Évora and which includes the natural beauty of the mountains as well the historic characteristics of the town.

Évora is 2,000 years old and overflowing with Moorish courtyards, Renaissance fountains, Gothic turrets, medieval squares and a labyrinthine of tiny streets. Visit the Praça do Giraldo, one of the main squares where open-air cafes serve delicious coffees to tourists but which was once the site of public executions. Don’t forget the Roman baths and the Moorish “Yeborah.”

Set alongside the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, Aveiro (uh-vey-roo) is a lively city whose nickname is “the Venice of Portugal” because of its picturesque humpbacked bridges, high-prow boats, and the charming network of cannels.

In fact, the town is best explored by moliceiro, a traditional boat once used primarily for harvesting seaweed and now converted for tourists. Have your fill of relaxing beaches and fabulous cuisine and feel like royalty here.

You’ll want to be sure to make time for the Sao Goncalinho Chapel, the Averio Cathedral, the Convento de Jesus and the many art nouveau buildings scattered around the town’s old centre.

Just off the Lisbon coast, in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, and a day trip away from Portugal’s capital, Sintra is simply breathtaking.

Pretty villas, royal retreats, luscious green hills, and fairy tale castles define this beautiful town. The highlight is Sintra’s Palácio da Pena with its German influence and mix of architectural styles. Once the summer home of the Portuguese royal family, the surrounding lands are a nature lovers dream come true – filled with exotic flowers, plants, and trees.

You must also make time for the ancient ruins at the Castle of the Moors with its unbelievable view from Sintra’s highest hill, as well as the subtropical gardens of Monserrate Palace.

Porto is the city that gave Portugal its name. But locals will tell you it’s most known for a hearty fortified wine known as port.

This busy city spreads itself across the hills that overlook the Douro River in north Portugal. The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll find the Ribeira, a wonderful pedestrian zone with cafes, live music, street vendors, and mouth-waters cuisine.

Porto is the second largest city and balances its commercial interests with its romantic history. Take a sunset stroll along the Douro as the sounds of music drift from the cafes and see if you don’t want to stay forever.

Encircled by several rings of medieval walls with a Moorish castle at its centre, Óbidos sits on top of a hill with astonishing views.

The town’s main attractions are the historic centre and its medieval castle which is now a Pousada (hotel owned by the government). The medieval ambiance of the place makes for a remarkable walk as you wind your way through the crooked cobblestone streets. You’ll pass many small squares full of lively activity, small cafes and shops, and whitewashed private homes decorated with colourful flowers.

Don’t miss out on the Capela de São Martinho, Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria, or the Igreja do Senhor da Pedra. Enjoy the Ancient Music Festival in October and the International Chocolate Festival each March.

8. Funchal, Madeira

With a nickname like “Floating Garden of the Atlantic,” you know you’re in for a fun and relaxing time. Madeira is an archipelago in the Atlantic located between Portual and North Africa.

It’s one of two autonomous regions in the country (along with The Azores) and is popular for its wines, the must-see Orchid Garden and the Laurissilva Forest.

Funchal is its capital and largest city which manages to balance modern growth and tradition. This is evident when you look at the well-preserved churches and museums through town. Funchal is a very walk-able sunny city perfect for nature lovers. When the sun goes down, those that love a fun-filled nightlife will appreciate the nightclubs, casinos, and restaurants.

9. The Algarve

If you’re looking for sun, sand, and sea, you’ll want to put Algarve at the top of your life. Here’s the rundown for this amazing south Portuguese town: fantastic beaches, Mediterranean climate, 3000 hours of sunlight a year, almost no rain, delicious cuisine, affordable cost of living, world-renown golf courses, picturesque towns, and rich history.

What’s not to love? The capital city of Faro is almost untouched from its 18th century roots and Sagres and Lagos can trace their roots to the Roman period.

You must visit The Fortaleza de Sagre was built in the 15th century and is believed to be the home of Prince Henry’s School of Navigation, and the Cape of São Vicente, a sacred site for the Roman’s who called it Promontorium Sacrum.

Portugal’s capital and largest city stretches along the banks of the Tagus River. Covering seven hills that form an unbelievable destination vacation, Lisbon is full of Gothic cathedrals, distinct neighbourhoods, fantastic weather, crooked alleyways, and fun shopping all with traditional fado music serving as your soundtrack everywhere you go.

The Baixa, Lisbon’s downtown, is the traditional centre of life here. The Baixa is where you’ll find the old traditional shops – some of the craftsmen have been there for generations. Alfama, an old Moorish quarter is the oldest district in the city known for its rustic architecture as well as St. George’s Castle.

Take a tour on one of the vintage trams (famously Tram 28) which will take you through all the main attractions, gardens, and historic quarters.

11. Guimarães

This city is overflowing with astounding characteristics. The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city itself was 2012’s European Capital of Culture.

Guimarães has special value for the Portuguese for it was here that the country’s roots began, during the Battle of São Mamede in 1128. Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal was the victor and set in motion the founding of this small but marvellous country.

You must visit not only the 10th century medieval castle, but Ducal Palace as well – built in the 15th century, it’s now a palace and a museum. And for a relaxing afternoon, take a stroll down the city’s most beautiful street, Rua de Santa Maria.

12. Albufeira

This former fishing village is now a major holiday destination among domestic and international tourists. It’s no wonder when you consider the white sand beaches, parasailing, jet-skiing, and dolphin watching.

Three great beaches to consider are Praia da Oura, Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermans Beach), and Praia do Peneco. If crowds aren’t for you but you still want your time on the beach, there are smaller and more secluded beaches full of character and great for families.

When you need a break, head inland to visit the appealing villages and high-quality restaurants on offer. Oh, and don’t forget the incredible nightlife.

13. Vilamoura

Vilamoura, considered the heart of the Algarve, has always been known for its absorbing natural beauty and sun and sand holidays. But these days tourism is booming and it’s becoming more known for luxurious spas, fine golfing, and a paradise for true foodies. Vilamoura is the place to come to put your feet up and relax.

You’re a quick trip away from the fast-paced night life of Faro as well as the Algarve’s best beaches. In fact, some of Portugal’s best wind-surfing happens on the beaches closest to town.

This is a must-stop for seafood lovers and wine lovers. It’s a perfect way to wind down your time in Portugal.

Home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a sacred pilgrimage site for Catholics, this central Portuguese town is heavily influenced by its patron saint, the Virgin Mary.

You can visit the Capelinha das Apariçoes, where she allegedly appeared in 1917, as well as other sacred sites like Igreja da Santíssima Trindade and the golden angels of Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário. Over six million people a year come to visit this holy place that now houses two huge churches on a stunning esplanade in the heart of town.

No matter your beliefs, Fátima is an impressive site to see; it’s an interesting look into some of the religious culture of Portugal.

The entire Algarve region is famous in Portugal, and the Algarve’s most famous destination is Faro . This capital city feels more Portuguese than most resort towns which is too bad because most people just pass through.

There’s a lot to discover here, including a delightful marine, plazas and parks, the historic old town with outdoor cafes and wonderful pedestrian lanes, the archaeological museum and a Renaissance cathedral known as Bishops Palace.

There’s a student population that keeps the nightlife interesting as well. The medieval quarters are fabulously maintained and hidden within you’ll find unique little museums, churches, and even a bone chapel. The Parque Natural da Ria Formasa lagoons are also nearby and make a great spot for exploration.

15 Best Places to Visit in Portugal:

Funchal, Madeira
The Algarve

19 Most Beautiful Towns & Cities to Visit in Portugal

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

19 Most Beautiful Towns & Cities to Visit in Portugal

Are you thinking of visiting Portugal and wondering where to go? In this article, we cover the very best towns in Portugal. From major cities to smaller towns and picturesque villages – this list shows you all the nicest towns in Portugal that are worth a visit the most.

Despite being a relatively small country, compared to other European counterparts, Portugal offers a range of diversity that most travelers never expect it to have. Of all the European countries we visited in the last years, Portugal is the one that surprised us the most. We keep on going back and always find so much to explore and experience…

Whether you’re heading for the national parks or wine-country up north, spending time in the bigger cities, planning on traveling through the Alentejo countryside, or visiting the golden beaches of the Algarve in the south, there is so much to discover in Portugal…

I find that Portuguese cities and towns deserve a separate mention. However, despite having been to Portugal multiple times, we haven’t yet visited all of its amazing towns. I, therefore, asked an insider to share some of the very best places that will make your trip to Portugal even more special.

Our guest writer Marco from Travel-Boo travel blog lives in Portugal and knows the country inside out. In this post, he shares a roundup of the most beautiful Portuguese cities, towns, and villages.

I also added three of my personal favorite Portuguese towns to this selection; places that left ever-lasting memories during our trips to this beautiful country.

This selection of the best towns in Portugal will not only inspire you to plan a trip to Portugal but will also introduce you to some amazing little towns that many first-time visitors and travel guides overlook. Find out!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Best Things to Do in Portugal (Bucket List Experiences)

These are the best cities in Portugal:

Among all the cities in Portugal, Lisbon attracts the most visitors and attention. And rightly so! Without any doubt, Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. And not just in Portugal! Lisbon is quickly becoming one of the most popular city break destinations in Europe.

First-time travelers to Portugal include Lisbon into their travel journey, partly because it’s the easiest city to fly in and out of. But Lisbon is so much more than you’d come to expect from a capital city!

Not only is the weather phenomenal with plenty of gorgeous sunshine, but the people are warm and welcoming. Central Lisbon has a great small-town atmosphere that makes a visit more relaxing and enjoyable than in most other big cities. The city’s architecture and buildings are stunning and the views are simply incredible!

With so much history, charm, and amazing sights to explore, not to mention the delicious Portuguese food & cuisine, Lisbon is an absolute must in any Portugal itinerary. Even if you have just one day in Lisbon , it’s totally worth it and you’ll definitely want to come back for more!

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon - one of the best cities in Portugal

Porto , the largest city in the north of Portugal, oozes character, history, and charm. The city, set along the banks of the famous Douro River is definitely worth a visit when planning your next Portugal holiday. Often overlooked and overshadowed by Lisbon, many first-time visitors are both surprised and impressed with Porto.

The city has so much going for it that spending a couple of nights here wouldn’t be a waste at all. Whether you’re lazing by the riverfront, enjoying a Port wine tasting , exploring the historic streets and sights, visiting the many churches with their blue and white-tiled facades or embarking on a day trip from the city , Porto will keep you busy for your entire stay.

If you love old-worldly charm and history, then Porto is definitely one of the towns to visit in Portugal.

The beautiful city of Coimbra , located at the foot of the Mondego River, is one of Portugal’s largest cities. This former capital of Portugal is also home to the oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. This University was established in 1290 in Lisbon and moved to its permanent location in Coimbra in 1537.

The grand and imposing University is set right at the top of a hill overlooking the city. It is also said to have inspired J.K. Rowling in her writing of Harry Potter when she lived in Portugal.

This is evident in the traditional black robes worn by the university students as well as the University hall and the showstopper, the exquisite Biblioteca Joanina. This impressive library is a must-see in Coimbra!

Although Coimbra University forms an important part of the city, there are tons of other great sights and activities to see and explore. A visit to one of the many churches including both the Old and the New Cathedrals are a must.

For a laid-back experience, the Botanical Gardens is an oasis of tranquillity and escape from the bustling historic city center. If you are traveling with kids, don’t miss the miniature park Portugal dos Pequenitos.

Coimbra - one of the nicest cities in Portugal

Magical, royal Sintra is unlike any other town you’ll find in Portugal. Back in its heyday, Sintra used to play host to royalty and nobility as it was the popular summer residence of the Portuguese royals and aristocrats.

Today Sintra is awash with royal palaces and elegant estates, a true fairytale set amongst the forests and woods that surround the town. Don’t miss the colorful Pena Palace that could come straight from a Disney movie. The adjacent Pena Park is also worth exploring, just as the Moorish Castle which is located just nearby.

Quinta de Regaleira and especially its gardens is another must-see place in Sintra, attracting big crowds. Our personal favorite is the Monserrate Palace – stunning architecture, enchanting gardens, and hardly any tourists at this hidden gem of Sintra.

Given its location, under an hour by train from Lisbon, Sintra is a popular day-trip destination for many travelers visiting Lisbon. You can visit by train or join one of the many organized day – or half-day tours . Sintra is considered an absolute must-see in Portugal and should definitely be part of any Portugal itinerary.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Sintra & Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit

5. Óbidos

Yet another of my favorite towns in Portugal is Óbidos . It’s set only a short hour drive away from Lisbon, making it a fabulous day tour from the capital . The medieval walled city of Óbidos with its rustic cobbled streets and glimmering white-washed houses is a pure delight to explore and definitely a must-visit when planning a holiday to Portugal.

This medieval city rose to prominence during the 13 th century when King Dinis I of Portugal bestowed the village as a gift to the bride, Queen Isabel.

Today, Óbidos is a very popular tourist destination in Portugal, probably best known for its cherry liqueur Ginja and all kinds of delicacies made with it. The town also hosts several annual events such as the Óbidos Chocolate Festival, the Medieval Festival, and the Christmas Village.

Top Óbidos Sights & Activities: Walk the city walls | Visit the various churches | Wander through the cobbled streets exploring Óbidos | Attend one of the many fairs & festivals that take place each year | Taste Ginja cherry liqueur.

Obidos - one of the best towns to visit in Portugal

6. Alcobaça & Batalha

Batalha and Alcobaça are two small towns in Central Portugal. They are best known for their incredible monasteries, the Monastery of Alcobaça and the Monastery of Batalha .

While the towns themselves aren’t that special, the monasteries are not to be missed when in Portugal. They are both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and it’s hard to say which monastery is more impressive or worth the visit more. That’s also the reason why we mention these two places together on this list of the best towns of Portugal. You just have to see them both!

The Monastery of Alcobaça was founded in 1153, but it wasn’t before mid 13th century that the building was finished. These buildings are the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal and the monastery is considered to be the most beautiful Cistercian abbey in Portugal.

But the biggest significance of the Alcobaca Monastery is in its relation to the Portuguese monarchy. Inside, you can find impressive Royal tombs where several kings of Portugal were buried. The 14th-century tombs of Inês de Castro and Pedro I are real masterpieces!

The Monastery of Batalha (literal translation – Monastery of the Battle) was built in order to commemorate the Battle of Aljubarrota (1385). The construction began in 1386 and took almost two centuries and fifteen supervising architects to somewhat complete the monastery in the mid 16th century. A part of the monastery – Capelas Imperfeitas (The Unfinished Chapels) – has never been finished. But it’s also one of the most impressive parts of the Batalha Monastery and something that makes it even more special and unique.

The monastery was damaged by earthquakes and wars and was completely abandoned in 1834. Luckily, a few years later, King Ferdinand II of Portugal ordered its restoration. It was only at the beginning of the 20th century that the Monastery of Batalha has been completely restored to its previous glory and declared a national monument.

Not only are these monasteries incredible feats of architectural engineering and design, but Batalha and Alcobaca are still pretty much hidden from the mainstream tourists that flock to Portugal every year. And yet, they are among the very best places to see in Portugal!

Top Sights: Monastery of Alcobaça | the Monastery of Batalha.

TIP: You can easily visit both these monasteries with organized day tours from Lisbon . Often, these tours will also include a visit to Nazare or Obidos – other amazing towns we also mentioned in this list.

7. Èvora

Évora is yet another historic walled city of Portugal that deserves a visit. Set in the heart of the Alentejo countryside and only around an hour and a half’s drive by car from Lisbon, it can easily be visited as a day trip from Lisbon and there are some organized tours that visit Evora as well.

Surprisingly, Evora has managed to remain somewhat of a hidden gem with fewer tourists than most other towns in close vicinity from Lisbon. It seems that only the tourists in-the-know pass by here. However, the city is gorgeous and has so much to offer that spending a night would definitely be justified.

Some of the most interesting sights in Evora include the intriguing Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), the Roman Temple ruins, the imposing Cathedral as well as the town square, Praça do Giraldo. One of the highlights is a visit to the roof of the cathedral – the views are simply stunning!

Of course, Evora has so much more going for itself. In fact, the entire Alentejo region is renowned for its cork plantations, excellent wines and delicious food too! When visiting Evora be sure to go try the ‘Bochecas de Porco Preto’ (Black Pork Cheek stew) at a restaurant called Cozinha da Catarina (it’s located by the Porta da Aviz city gate). This is one of the best meals we’ve ever had in Portugal!

Evora - one of the best towns in Portugal

Cascais is a pleasant seaside town located just outside of Lisbon. Regarded as the Portuguese Riviera, Cascais and the coastline that snakes all along from Lisbon to Cascais, is another popular day trip from Lisbon.

You’ll find some stunning beaches scattered all along this coast. One of my favorite beaches is the Praia de São Pedro do Estoril. Another popular choice is the small beach known as Praia da Rainha (Queen’s beach).

Whether you choose to explore the quaint and dreamy historic center of Cascais, walk to the fort, visit the Estoril Casino, or simply laze on one of its beaches, Cascais will no doubt enchant and capture your heart!

Make sure to sample some delicious fresh seafood and take a stroll along the seaside promenade. Visiting Cascais is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon city.

Top Cascais Sights & Activities: Historic Center | Beaches in and around Cascais | Estoril Casino | Cidadela de Cascais (fort).

What is undoubtedly one of my favorite places in the Algarve , Lagos attracts many visitors. Popular among locals and tourists alike, it somehow manages to retain its authenticity as a true Portuguese seaside town.

If the allure of Algarve with its golden sandy beaches and rugged golden rock formations sounds like your perfect holiday, then you’ll love Lagos. This town and the whole region is a true beach lovers’ paradise! But also nature lovers will love this stunning coastline.

The historic center of Lagos is usually abuzz with activity. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars lining the cobbled streets. But for me, the main drawcard to Lagos is the incredible beaches found in and around the town.

Praia Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo, Meia Praia, and many more are perfect examples of the most beautiful Algarve beaches found in and around Lagos. Most of these beaches can be easily reached on foot or by using public transportation, and, of course, by car.

Ponta da Piedade – one of the most impressive coastal features in Europe – is located just near Lagos. You can drive/walk there, but we highly recommend taking a boat tour to explore the sea caves and grottos of this stunning area from the water. Kayaking at Ponta da Piedade is also an unforgettable experience!

Nearby, you can visit some amazing sea caves, including the famous Benagil Cave . If you like hiking, we also highly recommend the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the same area.

This being the Algarve, I needn’t even mention the selection of water sports and other outdoor activities on offer as well. If a beach holiday and stunning coastlines are what you’re after, then Lagos will not disappoint. For families, there are plenty of water parks and several theme parks nearby.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Lagos & Where to Stay in Lagos

Set only about an hour from Porto by train, Aveiro is yet another popular town in northern Portugal. It can easily be visited as a day trip from Porto or when driving between Lisbon and Porto. Aveiro is known as the ‘Venice of Portugal’ because of the colorful gondolas (known as Moliceiros) that travel up and down the canal, ferrying tourists on a sightseeing trip through the city.

But for me personally, the real charm of Aveiro is the exquisite and traditional Portuguese tiles that adorn many of the buildings and homes in the city. Walking around Aveiro and getting lost in the side streets and alleyways while photographing all these tiled buildings was definitely a highlight during our visit.

Also make sure to try out the egg-yolk sweet known as Ovos Moles de Aveiro. It’s a traditional delicacy of the region and very well-known and loved throughout Portugal.

Top Aveiro Sights & Activities: Gondola rides | Explore Aveiro’s art deco architecture and tiled buildings | Taste Ovos Moles de Aveiro.

11. Costa Nova

Heading a bit out of Aveiro to the beautiful beaches nearby, you’ll come across Costa Nova . This is probably one of the most picturesque towns in Portugal!

Costa Nova is a small beachfront town with colorful striped houses that make for some great vacation photos. In summer, this is also a very popular summer holiday spot for many Portuguese families.

We visited Costa Nova during low season, in April, and the atmosphere in town was great. We especially enjoyed visiting a local fish market, strolling around the beautiful pedestrian promenade lined with colorful houses, and discovering some more authentic striped houses a bit further from the main street.

Costa Nova is one of the prettiest little towns in Portugal and it’s really worth a short visit. If you are visiting Aveiro, Costa Nova is just a very small detour nearby, so don’t miss it.

Top Costa Nova Sights: Striped houses along Av. José Estevão |Local Fish Market | Costa Nova Beach.

Costa Nova - colorful small town in Portugal

The city of Braga , located around an hour north of Porto, is not only one of the oldest cities in Portugal, but also one of the countries most important and noteworthy religious destinations. Braga is a very popular day trip from Porto and you can easily visit with a tour .

The city boasts an incredible array of religious heritage sites. In fact, it has over 30 churches including the Braga Cathedral, the oldest in the country and dating back to the 12 th century.

Of particular interest is the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary pilgrimage site. It’s an impressive sight as you behold the Baroque-style staircase that leads up to the church at the top. This is definitely one of the most photographed sights in Braga where many devout pilgrims also climb the 116-meter stairs on their knees.

Top Braga Sights & Activities: Bom Jesus do Monte | Braga Cathedral | Praça da República.

Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga town in Portugal

13. Guimarães

One of my personal favorite cities in Portugal, Guimarães , also happens to be one of the most important places in the country. The city dating back as far as the 9 th century when it was known as Vimaranes, is regarded as the birthplace of Portugal.

It is believed that the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born in Guimarães. It is also within close vicinity of the city that the Battle of São Mamede was fought, an important step towards the eventual establishment of the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139.

Today, it’s a pleasant town with a quaint and extremely charming historic city center. Make sure to visit the castle, the Ducal Palace, and other significant sights in and around the city.

Top Guimarães Sights & Activities: Palace of the Dukes of Braganza | Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira church | Guimarães Castle | Historic town center.

14. Nazaré

One of the most popular seaside towns in Central Portugal, Nazaré is an old fishermen’s town that has a great mix of traditional culture and beach life.

If you come here on a busy summer weekend, it will perhaps remind you of any other beach resort in Portugal. However, if you visit a bit off the main season, you’ll find a quaint little town where people still wear traditional clothing and dry fish on the huge wooden racks on the beach.

If you visit a local restaurant, the chances are big that they bring you a whole platter of freshly-caught fish to choose from instead of a menu.

Nazaré is also famous for its wide sandy beach, the world’s highest waves, and the most incredible sunsets that will make you linger a lot longer than you’d planned.

Top sights in Nazaré: Fishermen’s district Bairro dos Pescadores | Nazaré beach | Nazaré funicular | O Sitio district.

LEARN MORE: What to do in Nazare

The former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar, Tomar is a gorgeous city set in central Portugal. Together with nearby Batalha and Alcobaça (see above), these three towns make up the monastic triangle featuring incredible Manueline-style monasteries.

Convento do Cristo in Tomar was built in 1160 and served as a headquarters for the Knights Templar, making Tomar one of the most important medieval sites of Portugal. It is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tomar is also home to the ‘Festa dos Tabuleiros’ (the Trays Festival) where the entire city is decorated by flowers. It only takes place every four years. It’s an incredible sight to behold as the city comes alive with the vibrant colors and festivities that take place.

Top Sights: Convento do Cristo in Tomar.

TIP: A visit to Tomar is a popular day trip from Lisbon and is often combined together with some other impressive medieval sights nearby. Many tours to Tomar include a visit to the nearby Almourol Castle, situated on a small island in the middle of the Tagus River.

Convent of Christ in Tomar town in Portugal

16. Fátima

Situated around an hour and a half drive north of Lisbon, Fátima is one of the most religiously significant cities of Portugal.

Perhaps not the prettiest town, Fátima is home to numerous important religious sites including the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. This is the spot where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to three shepherd children back in 1917. The alleged apparitions took place between the dates of the 13 th of May until the 13 th of October of that same year and were later recognized by the Catholic Church.

Today the city draws many visitors. It’s especially busy during Easter as well as mid-May when the annual festivals celebrating the anniversary of the apparitions take place.

Top Fátima Sights & Activities: Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima | Capela das Aparições (Chapel of Apparitions) on the original site where the apparitions allegedly took place | Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário.

17. Monsaraz

If you love medieval, fortified cities, Monsaraz is a truly spectacular sight to behold. This lesser known town is located only around an hour’s drive east of Evora, heading towards Spain. As you drive up the hill, where this fortified village rises up from, you start to appreciate the incredible feat of construction that must have gone into building this city and its castle.

Entering the city gates, you are greeted by the incredibly charming, white-washed houses and cobbled streets. The main street is lined with boutique shops selling all sorts of Alentejo handcrafts and local products. Wondering through the rustic streets you can head to the Monsaraz Castle and walk along its walls, passing by the historic bullfighting ring.

Given Monsaraz’s vantage point, being set so high up, the views here are to die for! As you stand on the castle walls, you can look out over the Alqueva River that separates the Beja district of Spain from Portugal. This is also the perfect spot from which to enjoy an unforgettable sunset!

TIP: Feel like taking a swim? Head down to the Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz (the man-made beach situated on the banks of the Alqueva River), about a 10-minute drive from the village.

Top Monsaraz Sights & Activities: Historic center | Monsaraz Castle | Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz.

Monsaraz - one of the nicest small towns of Portugal

Tavira is yet another hidden gem in the Algarve region and is one of the prettiest towns in Algarve . Tavira is extremely popular amongst the Portuguese, but more and more foreign tourists are discovering it as well.

Set along the Gilão River, the historic town center is definitely worth exploring. As you wander through the streets you can still find traces of Moorish influences, mixed in with quintessential Portuguese architecture. The colorful buildings, some decorated with intricate Portuguese tilework, is perhaps what adds so much character and charm to Tavira.

If you have the time, explore the nearby beaches and visit Praia da Ilha de Tavira, a beach-island that requires a ferry crossing from Tavira.

Top Tavira Sights & Activities: Explore the historic city center | Praia do Barril beach | Tavira Castle | Praia da Ilha de Tavira.

LEARN MORE: What to See & Do in Tavira

19. Funchal

And last, but not least, I also want to add Funchal to this list of the best cities in Portugal. While all the other towns mentioned in this article can be found on mainland Portugal, Funchal is the capital city of the Portuguese island Madeira . It’s one of the nicest cities in Portugal and definitely deserves a mention and a visit.

Set in the stunning surroundings with the green hills dotted with red-roofed houses, banana trees, and colorful flowers on one side and the azure blue sea on the other, Funchal is a city that truly has it all.

Centuries-old history and architecture, unique traditions, exotic flowers and fruit, Madeira wine, and delicious food. Furthermore, there are countless hiking opportunities in Madeira , you can go whale watching , and visit all the top sights and hidden gems of Madeira just by taking day trips from Funchal…

Funchal and the entire island of Madeira deserve a separate trip. But with the easy flight connections from Lisbon, you can easily add a few days in Madeira to any Portugal itinerary. It will be worth it!

Top Sights in Funchal: Old town | Various botanical gardens | Monté cable car| Wicker toboggan sled | Mercado dos Lavradores.

LEARN MORE: Things to Do in Funchal & Things to Do in Madeira

So, this is our guide to the best towns in Portugal. Of course, there are many other beautiful towns in Portugal, including one of our favorite hidden gems – Ponta Delgada in the Azores. But if you are looking for travel inspiration for Portuguese cities, this list covers all the ‘musts’ and so much more than you’d be able to cover in one trip.

About the author. Born and raised in South Africa, Marco Santos moved to sunny Lisbon over 2 years ago. With an absolute love for Europe, he is on a mission to rediscover his own Portuguese heritage along the way. Marco shares his passion for traveling throughout Portugal and Spain on his blog Travel-Boo .

I want to thank Marco for sharing these great tips with our readers and I truly hope that you found some new travel inspiration in this post.

TIP: If you are thinking of visiting several of the best towns of Portugal, but are not sure how to plan your time, take a look at our Portugal itinerary . It contains our day-to-day road trip itinerary that covers most of the best Portuguese towns mentioned in this article. Check it out!

22 Most Beautiful Places in Portugal: The Ultimate List

From the historic cities of Lisbon and Porto to the tiny cobbled villages of the north, the vast wine region to the wild Atlantic coast, there is certainly no shortage of beautiful places in Portugal to capture travellers’ imaginations.

This list brings together 22 of the prettiest places in Portugal , each totally distinct but all renowned for their history, charms, scenery, and above all good looks.

If I’ve missed your favourite, please let me know in the comments at the end!

Also read: 28 things to do in Portugal – from hot springs to tile hunting

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

How to see these beautiful places in Portugal

Most of the destinations mentioned here can be easily accessed by train or bus (I’ve included brief details for each one below). But to see more of the country, I highly recommend renting a car and setting off on a Portugal road trip.

As with a Spain road trip , driving in Portugal will give you freedom to explore harder-to-reach areas and stay at more remote, unique accommodations including quintas (farmhouses).

I personally use Discover Cars to find the best rate on a rental car whenever I’m in Europe. Click here to browse their offerings and choose from pickup locations all over mainland Portugal and in the Azores.

22 most beautiful places in Portugal you have to visit

Coloured apartment blocks line a narrow street in the city of Lisbon.

The capital city of Lisbon rightly tops just about every traveller’s Portugal bucket list. One of the prettiest cities in Portugal and in the whole of Europe, Lisbon is a mosaic of winding streets, open plazas, stunning churches and miradouro lookouts waiting to be discovered.

There’s beauty around every corner in Lisbon, whether it’s the slightly ramshackle kind of glamour you find in historic Alfama, the paradisiacal beauty of the Tagus River, or the grand charm of landmarks such as the Tower of Belem, one of the oldest of Portugal’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Despite welcoming more and more visitors every year, Lisbon remains an affordable destination. From browsing the racks at the oldest bookshop in the world for the perfect souvenir , to chowing down on Pasteis de Belem custard tarts, or bar hopping in the trendy Bairro Alto, there’s never a dull moment when visiting this vibrant place .

Get there: Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport or take the train from Porto (4 hours). Where to stay: For a truly local stay, check out my list of the best Lisbon Airbnbs .

2. Sintra – one of the prettiest places in Portugal

The beautiful Pena Palace in Sintra, a day trip from Lisbon.

The charming town of Sintra is nestled in the pine-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra mountains west of Lisbon. This is where every tourist comes to live out their fantasy of wandering through a fairytale.

The area is best-known for its collection of castles, most notably the colourful Palácio Nacional da Pena (Pena Palace) and the more classical Quinta da Regaleira. One of the most distinct palaces anywhere in Europe, Pena especially can’t be missed.

Pretty as it is, there’s a more serious history behind Sinta, including tales of how the nobility were forced to flee on the eve of the country’s bloody revolution. The Initiation Well at the Quinta da Regaleira – a deep hole that resembles an inverted tower – has a dark side too: The design is said to reflect Dante’s nine circles of Hell.

Get there: Sintra is located 30km (19 miles) from Lisbon and can be reached by train within 40 minutes, making it an ideal day trip destination from the capital. Guided day trip: This 5-hour small group tour of Sintra includes hotel transfers from Lisbon. Where to stay: Chalet Saudade is a historic 19th-century property in Sintra with gorgeous period finishings and scenic views.

3. The Algarve

Rock formations under a purple and blue sunset sky on Portugal's Algarve coast.

The Algarve is home to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Portugal and what is surely the country’s most dramatically beautiful stretch of coastline.

From the charming streets of old town of Lagos to the cliffy Ponta da Piedade, with its natural sea arches and rock formations that frame picture-perfect Atlantic ocean views, The Algarve may be popular, but there’s a good reason for that.

The beach region and its four major towns draw thick summer crowds, especially in July and August. For those looking to get away from the tourist hordes, there are some stunning secluded beaches to be found – as long as you’re prepared to do some off-track walking.

Get there: Fly into Faro Airport, or take a fast train from Lisbon (3 hours travel time). Where to stay: Refer to my write up of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal for a selection of amazing villas and beachfront apartments in Lagos.

The historic Pousada Palacio de Estoi, a pink palace surrounded by green gardens in Estoi, Portugal.

Located inland from Faro and Portugal’s Algarve coast, the tiny town of Estoi is a bit of a hidden gem. Its biggest attraction is the restored Palácio do Visconde de Estoi, a 19th-century palace with a pretty pink Rococo facade.

Not all that long ago, the palace was in tatters after lying abandoned for several decades. It was recently renovated and relaunched as a Pousada (a luxury historic hotel). The sprawling manicured gardens that surround the palace also received a facelift and today, you can enjoy a stroll here beneath the palm trees, drinking in one of the most romantic buildings in Portugal in all her glory.

Also in Estoi, don’t miss the Roman Ruins of Milreu, which are located a short walk from the palace. Here you can view the remains of an opulent Ancient Roman villa – replete with vivid mosaics and columns – that archaeologists have dated back to the 2nd century AD.

Estoi itself is a typical Algarvian town with tightly woven cobbled streets, whitewashed houses fringed with pastel accents, and creeping bougainvillea trees. The local, laid-back vibe (and lack of tourists) makes Estoi a terrific place to retreat from the crowded coast for a couple of hours.

Get there: Estoi is located 15 minutes by road from Faro. To get there, you can take a taxi or a local bus from anywhere on the Algarve. Where to stay: For an unforgettable experience, stay at the Pousada Palacio de Estoi , a Small Luxury Hotel of the World. For something more affordable, Casa de Estoi is a family home from the 1900s-turned boutique hotel.

A cute corner house decorated with white and yellow paint in Obidos, one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal.

Located in central Portugal’s Oeste region, Obidos is considered by many to be the country’s finest example of a traditional Portuguese walled town. With a history that dates back to Paleolithic times, Obidos has been shaped by centuries of Phoenecian, Roman and Moorish influence.

As soon as you enter through the Porta da Vila, the tiled gateway to Obidos, you know you’re in for a treat. The cobbled streets of the historic centre rise and fall with the gently undulating hills the town is built atop, leading you through clusters of sweet whitewashed houses that huddle together under shared slate roofs.

Sawtooth fortified walls loom in the background, enveloping Obidos like a shining jewel in the palm of a great, rocky hand. The imposing limestone-and-marble Obidos Castle has been turned into a Pousada, offering anyone who overnights in the plush rooms an unforgettable experience. In July, the annual Óbidos Medieval Market takes over the Old Arms Square, which was once used as a training ground for the king’s squires and knights.

There’s little doubt that this is one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal. It’s recommended to stay at least one night so you can explore the streets after the day-trip crowds have departed.

Get there: Obidos is located 85km (53 miles) or roughly 1.5 hours by road north of Lisbon. To get there, take a taxi or opt for a local train (2.5 hours travel time). Guided day trip: This popular 8-hour day trip from Lisbon visits Obidos, Nazare and the Catholic shrine of Fatima. Where to stay: For a totally unique stay, The Literary Man Obidos Hotel is the world’s largest literary hotel. Located inside a former convent next to Obidos Castle, it features a cocktail bar and a huge collection of antique books.

6. The Douro Valley – Portugal’s premier wine region

Vineyards stretch over rolling hills in Portugal's Douro Valley.

Named for the mighty Douro River that cuts across the Iberian Peninsular, the Douro Valley has become one of the most coveted destinations in Europe for wine lovers in recent years.

This exquisite landscape east of Porto – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – includes Barca de Alva, one of the oldest wine regions in the world. Grapes have been cultivated on these steep banks and billowy plains for centuries, and the area’s viniculture heritage flavours everything – from the beautiful tiled railway station at Pinhao which bears elaborate vine designs, to the old rabelo boats, traditional vessels used for carrying wine from farms to the mouth of the river, that still cut across the water.

Wine tastings are available at dozens of cellar doors and in Vila Nova de Gaia, you can visit the lodges where Port wine is fortified.

Apart from wine tourism, Douro Valley promises visitors some of Portugal’s most stunning natural landscapes. Like Port wine, it’s best to sip on the views slowly, ideally while seated on a train chugging along the iconic Douro railway line.

Get there: Peso da Régua makes a convenient base when exploring the Douro Valley. To get there, drive from Porto (1.5-2 hours travel time) or take a local train (2 hours travel time). Guided day trip: This day trip includes transfers from Porto to the Douro Valley where you’ll tour two vineyards, either as a small group or in private, enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch, and end the day with a scenic river cruise. Where to stay: Check out this list of the best hotels and quintas (farmhouses) in Peso da Régua and elsewhere in the Douro Valley.

7. Porto – one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal

A beautiful historic building reflected in a waterway in the centre of Porto, Portugal.

Portugal’s second-largest city may at first seem to resemble Lisbon in many ways, particularly in the architecture, riverside profile and hilly streets. A great alternative to the capital , Porto is a cultural beacon that shines just as bright and has just as much to offer visitors.

One of the most beautiful sections of Porto is the riverside, where rows and rows of houses bejewelled with Azulejos tiles sit pressed together. Get an overview of the city on a Rabelo boat trip before wandering the plazas and streets on foot, stopping off every now and then for a spot of Fado music and a libation at one of the many Port wine cellars.

Porto’s gardens, medieval castles, cathedrals and palaces are many and varied, each pretty in its own way.

Get there: Fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport or take the train from Lisbon (4 hours). Where to stay: Torel Palace Porto is the perfect choice for the visitor who wants to immerse themselves in Old Porto’s charms. The heritage property is decked out with antique trouvailles and even features an outdoor pool. The location 800m from City Market Bolhao is ideal for sightseeing.

Boats float on the water in front of a grand building in Cascais, Portugal.

A municipality within the District of Lisbon, Cascais is a coastal settlement comprising cute towns hemmed in by a striking coastline of cliffs and sea arches. Spots like the Boca do Inferno bear a resemblance to the rugged formations around Lagos on Southern Portugal’s Algarve .

Cascais was made popular in the 1870s when King Louis I of Portugal chose this spot as his summer retreat. The area still has a feel of old-world glamour and elegance about it, especially in the stunning palaces that dot the coastline. There are no fewer than 17 beaches in the area as well, some suitable for swimming.

One of the most beautiful spots in Cascais is the City Hall Square, which is adorned with typical Portuguese black-and-white paving in a mind-bending pattern that emulates rolling waves. Interestingly, you can see the exact same design a world away in Macau , a former Portuguese colony.

Get there: Cascais is located just 35km (22 miles) from Lisbon, on the coast close to Sintra. To get there, take a local train (1 hour travel time). Guided day trip: This full-day trip from Lisbon to the coast pairs Cascais and the stunning Cabo da Roca coastline with a visit to the nearby Pena Palace in Sintra. Perfect if you’re on a tight timeline. Where to stay: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Estoril coastline and Cascais Bay, The Albatroz is a charming 5-star unit with a sea-view swimming pool and sun-drenched terrace.

9. Madeira – a wild beauty in Portugal

A cascading waterfall on Madeira island in Portugal.

When it comes to natural beauty, there are few places in the world that rival Madeira. Portugal’s four-island archipelago is the star of the North Atlantic and a cornucopia of wild, ruggedly beautiful landscapes.

The largest island, Madeira, offers visitors the chance to sample everything this remote part of Portugal is famed for in one convenient location. Starting at Funchal, wander the exquisite harbour gardens and sample local wines at the Madeira cellars.

The best way to explore Madeira is by car. Circumnavigate the island, stopping to wander the narrow streets of the various fishing villages, soak in the lava pools in Porto Moniz, and spot whales and dolphins in the clear waters off the southern coast (best from April to October).

Remember to venture inland to the vast Natural Park, where easy trails guide visitors around the prehistoric Laurisilva of Madeira forest. The island is crowned with the ominous Pico do Arieiro, a volcanic peak that rises high above the clouds.

Get there: Fly into Funchal Airport (1.75-hour flight from Lisbon or 2-hour flight from Porto). Guided option: No car? Join an Around The Island 2-day trip to see the best of Madeira in 48 hours. Where to stay: If you want to stay close to the action within easy reach of the island’s best restaurants, Funchal is your best bet. ARTS IN Hotel Conde Carvalhal is a restored Madeiran mansion within walking distance of the Old Town with sea views.

10. Coimbra

The ancient city of Coimbra, home to one of Portugal’s oldest institutions, Coimbra University, served as the country’s medieval capital for over two-hundred years and birthed no fewer than six monarchs. Elegant, learned and classically beautiful, it’s more than worthy of a spot on your Portugal itinerary if your travels are taking you to the northern regions.

Coimbra has a large student population and a colourful cafe and nightlife scene as a result. The historic university complex – which has been around in one form or another since the 1200s – adds to the heritage charm. Be sure to take a walk around the university’s Jardim Botânico, one of the oldest and most important botanical gardens in the country.

Then there is Coimbra’s ancient aspect, attached to the city’s Gothic structures and Moorish fortifications to which many tales and legends are attributed. Enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner and watch an intimate Fado performance before strolling through Coimbra at night – lit up by candle-like lights against an inky blue sky, the city takes on a whole other kind of surreal beauty.

Get there: Fly into Coimbra Airport or take a train from Porto (2 hours travel time). Guided day trip: For an intimate experience, this full-day tour from Porto includes a walking tour of Coimbra and a visit to the sacred pilgrimage site at Fatima. Where to stay: Trendy Sapientia Boutique Hotel is located 1.5km from the university and features gorgeous designer rooms, an onsite bar and restaurant, and a spectacular rooftop terrace overlooking Coimbra.

A blue-and-white tiled train station in the beautiful Portugal town of Aveiro.

Often called ‘The Venice of Portugal’, Aveiro is located on the coast south of Porto. Like the Italian city, Aveiro has a lagoon (the Ria de Aveiro) and a network of canals that serve as water highways not for vaporettos , but for Portugal’s own colourful boats known as Barcos Moliceiros . Traditionally these vessels were used to harvest seaweed. These days, captains are used to transporting other types of precious cargo, including tourists!

Parts of the Aveiro lagoon are ringed by stout, square Art Nouveau buildings painted in a rainbow of pastels. Paired with the colourful boats and palm trees, it’s quite a sight to behold indeed.

Aveiro is located close to the coast and the iconic fishermen’s houses at nearby Costa Nova – more on those later.

Get there: Aveiro is located 75km (47 miles) south of Porto, making it a convenient day trip from Porto. To get there, take a local train (40 minutes travel time) or join a guided day trip. Guided day trip: This half-day trip from Porto includes hotel transfers and a trip on a traditional boat to see the best of Aveiro. Where to stay: Aveiro 5 Estrelas Palace is a comfortable self-contained apartment with easy access to both the historic city centre and nearby hiking trails.

12. The Azores

A walk path leads to a beautiful mountain landscape in the Azores islands.

The autonomous region of Azores is made up of nine islands located off the coast of Portugal and North Africa. Known for their dramatic landscapes and outdoor activities, the Azores serve as a dedicated destination for nature tourism.

Each of the nine islands – spread over 600km from Corvo to Santa Maria – is of volcanic origin. Extinct craters and basin-like lakes, towering waterfalls and hiking paths set atop verdant ridges are some of the most recognisable landscapes associated with the Azores.

Activities on offer range from whale watching and diving to canoeing and kayaking. You can hike inside the volcanoes or explore the islands by car. Sao Miguel, the biggest and most beautiful Azores island, also features several pretty whitewashed towns. It’s main city, Ponta Delgada, is a great place to base your explorations.

Get there: Fly into João Paulo II Airport on the island of São Miguel (2.5-hour flight from Lisbon or Porto). Where to stay: On Sao Miguel, Furnas Boutique Hotel is located in Vale das Furnas – home to one of the largest concentrations of thermal waters anywhere in Europe – and features a natural spring spa alongside luxe rooms.

13. Sortelha – one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal

The Portuguese village of Sortelha viewed from above.

Seated in the foothills at an elevation 760 metres and completely surrounded by formidable fortress walls, Sortelha has managed to retain its medieval appearance until this today. A series of castles built across the borders of Sortelha provide a clue as to this area’s strategic importance to defend the border east of Guarda.

The entrance to Sortelha is via a Gothic gateway. Gaze up at the balcony from where projectiles were hurled at those who dared to attack the village. Inside, streets, plazas, houses and the castle all conform to a similar shade of stone – a strategic decision that adds to the town’s low-key profile.

Walking through the quiet streets of Sortelha is like treading on the cobblestones of history. Not only is this one of the prettiest places in Portugal, it’s also one of the most historically captivating, with all the charm of a medieval hamlet.

Get there: Sortelha is located 175km (109 miles) inland from Coimbra. To get there, travel by road from Coimbra (3 hours travel time) or from Porto (3.5 hours travel time). Because of its close proximity to Serra da Estrela, it’s an ideal stop-off or side trip when visiting the park. Where to stay: O Cantinho da Ana is one of the most unique accommodations in all of Portugal. Located in the heart of historical Sortelha village, the property offers three rustic stone-walled houses, all with modern kitchens and bathrooms, comfortable furniture and antique fittings.

14. Peneda-Geres National Park

A beautiful lake fringed by forets and villages in Peneda-Geres National Park in Portugal.

Portugal’s one and only Parque Nacional (national park), Peneda-Geres is the oldest protected biosphere in the country. It extends over some 700-square-kilometres in the north of Portugal, hugging the Spanish border.

Peneda-Geres is a veritable wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s walking through temperate broadleaf forests, summiting one of the park’s granite massifs, enjoying water sports on the fast-flowing streams or the glassy Vilarinho das Furnas Dam, or hiking through glacial valleys, you can try it all right here.

The nature reserve also has a fascinating human history, having been inhabited from as early as 6000 BC. Megalithic tombs can be spotted in some areas. For a unique experience, hike a section of the old Roman Road that once criss-crossed the park’s territory. Stone millenarium markers still stand today as a reminder of The Roman Geira, a trade route that stretched 320km from Braga to Astorga.

Get there: Peneda-Geres National Park is located 75km (47 miles) from Braga, or roughly an hour by road. It can also be visited as a day trip from Porto (under 2 hours by road). Guided day trip: This full-day program with transfers to and from Porto includes hiking, hot springs and a picnic lunch. Where to stay: Soajo is the largest village within the park and has a nice selection of traditional country house-style accommodations. Casa de Pereiró is a gorgeous stone abode with cosy rooms and easy access to nearby hiking trails.

15. Serra da Estrela Natural Park

A river surrounded by mossy rocks in Serra de Estrala Nature Park.

Spread over 100,000 hectares, Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a place of exceptional beauty. The first parque natural in Portugal and the largest of its kind in the country, it’s a must-visit for hikers and nature buffs.

The park’s geographical isolation has produced a rich flora and fauna, resulting in the designation of Biogenetic Reserve status, while the high elevation means conditions are cool year-round, ideal for hiking.

Trails of varying difficulty thread their way through the park’s glacial valleys, green meadows and rocky outcrops, leading visitors to one stunning viewpoint after another. Not all trails are well signposted so it’s best to go with a local guide.

Get there: Serra da Estrela is located inland from Coimbra, close to Sortelha. To get there, travel by road from Coimbra (2 hours travel time) or from Porto (2.5 hours travel time). Where to stay: If you want to wake up to majestic mountain views each morning, Casa das Penhas Douradas design hotel is situated in Manteigas in the heart of Serra da Estrela Nature Park.

16. Costa Nova do Prado – one of the most colourful places to visit in Portugal

Candy-striped houses on Portugal's Costa Nova.

A short drive from the town of Aveiro, the Costa Nova do Prado is a patch of rugged beachfront favoured by the area’s surfers.

But it’s not the windswept sand dunes nor the cresting waves that makes this area one of the most beautiful places in Portugal – rather it’s the cute wooden houses that can be found along the shore.

Originally built by local fishermen to store their equipment between sea voyages, the huts – or ‘haystacks’ as they’re known to locals – are each painted with vertical candy stripes in a different shade of pink, blue or green. Some have since been transformed into holiday homes.

Get there: The Costa Nova is located 85km (53 miles) south of Porto. The easiest way to get there is by road from either Porto or Coimbra (1 hour travel time from either direction). Where to stay: Ilhavo is an ideal base on the Costa Nova, being just a short walk from the shoreline. Montebelo Vista Alegre Ílhavo Hotel features luxury rooms and an outdoor pool and spa centre close to Aveiro.

A close-up of the architectural details on Braga cathedral.

Capital of the northern Minho region, Braga was once the seat of the Romans and is steeped in architectural treasures and ancient history. One of the oldest cities in Portugal, its biggest drawcard is the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte Basílica, fronted with a stunning set of 630 zig-zagged steps.

While visiting the third-largest city in modern day Portugal, don’t miss seeing the country’s oldest cathedral, Braga Cathedral. The golden interior and the various side chapels – one of which hold the mummified remains of Dom Lourenco Vicente and the tomb of Archbishop Geraldo – are more than worth the ticket price.

When you’re finished sightseeing, kick back in the main square with a glass of vinho verde ‘green wine’, a refreshing beverage associated with this part of Northern Portugal.

Get there: The city of Braga is just 55km (34 miles) north-east of Porto. To get there, take a train or local bus from Porto (1 hour travel time). Guided day trip: This day trip from Porto includes private transfers. Over the course of 8 hours, you’ll discover the best of the city’s architectural and religious heritage, and also visit the nearby city of Guimarães where the first king of Portugal was born. Where to stay: Located in the centre of Braga footsteps from the cathedral, The Arch – Charming Apartments in the Historic Center pairs the elegance of a historic building with all the modcons required for a comfortable stay.

18. Amarante

A round stone bridge across the bright-blue river in the beautiful town of Amarante, Portugal.

‘Amar’ means love in Portuguese and it’s hard not to fall for this softly-spoken beauty at first sight. Located in the rich agricultural Minho province, Amarante straddles the river Tamega.

Countless restaurants and cafes have sprung up to take advantage of the picturesque water views with the arched stone bridge, Ponte Sobre o Tamega, reflected in its glassy waters. The tomb of Sao Goncalo, the town’s revered Saint, lies in the chapel of the church by the same name and shouldn’t be missed.

Dating back to the 4th Century BC, Amarante is all charm and yet another fairytale-like beauty in Portugal.

Get there: Amarante is located 60km (37 miles) east of Porto, making it another great day trip destination. To get there, travel by local train (40 minutes travel time). Where to stay: For an immersive stay in the wine region, Vila Coura is a gorgeous agroturismo with wood-burning fireplaces and an outdoor pool for summer.

Striking Roman ruins in the town of Evora in Portugal.

Capital of Portugal’s southern-central Alentejo region, Evora is the kind of city whose beauty grows and grows the more you learn about it. That’s because Evora has one of the oldest and most interesting histories of any town or city in the country – even by Portuguese standards, which is saying a lot.

A member of the Most Ancient European Towns Network, it’s home to one of the world’s oldest universities, The University of Evora, which was founded in 1559. The heart of downtown is built around the ancient Roman Temple of Evora (AKA the Temple of Diana), and it’s this structure’s columns that frame the Evora of today.

A Gothic cathedral, Baroque architecture, whitewashed houses built under the arches of an old aqueduct, and finally the strange yet beautiful-in-its-own-way Chapel of Bones are among the other things to see here.

The Alentejo countryside around Evora holds yet more beauty in its olive groves, fortified villages and sun-bleached plains.

Get there: Evora is located 135km (84 miles) inland from Lisbon. To get there, take a train from Lisbon (1.5 hours travel time) or from Faro (4 hours travel time). Guided day trip: This full-day tour to the Alentejo Region from Lisbon combines a wine tasting with a walking tour of medieval Evora. Where to stay: The incredibly atmospheric Convento do Espinheiro is a historic 5-star hotel housed in a 15th-century convent. Find it on a leafy property just outside Évora, with free parking onsite.

Aerial view of Mafra Palace near Sintra in Portugal.

There are several important royal palaces scattered around the outskirts of Lisbon. Sintra might be the most famous royal outpost, but few rival the scale and grandeur of the Palacio Nacional in Mafra.

Also known as the Palace-Convent, Mafra National Park has a rich history and served both the monarchy, and as a monastery! Its design combines Baroque and Neoclassical elements, with a facade fashioned almost entirely from local limestone. Inside, you’ll find lavishly decorated king’s apartments and salons, a Carrara marble basilica, Rococo library, and workshops belonging to the seminal Mafra School of Sculpture.

The palace was constructed between 1717-55 under King John V and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sweet municipality is a wonderful place to escape from Lisbon for a day – and because of its great location, you can easily pair it with other attractions in the surrounding area: Hiking or biking in the Tapada Nacional de Mafra (the former royal hunting grounds), or watching the big waves at the World Surf Reserve at Ericeira.

Get there: Mafra is located 41km (25 miles) north-west of Lisbon and is serviced by the frequent Lisbon-Ericeira bus route, making it easy to reach from the capital city in under an hour.

Guided day trip: A must for history buffs, the Palaces of Portugal Private Tour visits Sintra, the National Palace of Queluz and the Palacio Nacional de Mafra, with an option to extend the route.

Cloisters and white sanctuaries in the lovely Portuguese town of Fatima.

An alternative day trip from Lisbon, the small town of Fatima has a big reputation amongst the world’s Catholic community. In 1916, three shepherd children from the area experienced a sighting of the Virgin Mary here. Five more apparitions occurred later, prompting Fatima to become recognised as an important pilgrimage site.

The events that occurred are memorialised at the Chapel of the Apparitions hermitage. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima remains the town’s principal attraction, with dozens more sanctuaries, churches and Stations of the Cross having been added in the intervening years.

The sprawling complex of white-stone structures, Holy statutes and flower gardens inspires reverence and awe, especially among the 6-8 million religious pilgrims who journey here every year. A number of sweet house museums remember the apparitions and their impact on different townsfolk. When visiting Fatima from Lisbon, be sure to make a stop in Valinhos, where the original visions occurred.

Get there: Fatima is located 125km (78 miles) from Lisbon. To get there, take a local bus or the train to the nearby town of Chao de Macas.

Guided day trip: This guided Divine Fatima Full Day Private Tour from Lisbon is suited to those looking for an in-depth tour of the sacred site and its surrounding history.

Where to stay: A 2-minute walk from the sanctuary, Hotel Santa Maria is a modern accommodation with a long standing reputation for great food and quality service.

22. Azenhas do Mar

A village of white houses on a sheer cliff above the Atlantic Ocean in the pretty Portuguese town of Azenhas do Mar.

The coastal town of Azenhas do Mar floats above the Atlantic in Portugal’s Colares Parish, part of the community of Sintra. If you’re looking for the perfect add-on to your Sintra palaces day trip from Lisbon, this could be it.

Arriving in Azenhas do Mar, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had made a wrong turn and ended up on the Mediterranean. A collection of pretty white fisherman’s houses bundled together on the edge of a steep cliff wall sets the scene. Further out, you can gander at sumptuous summer homes owned by elite families from Lisbon and Sintra.

Azenhas do Mar is one of Portugal’s natural wonders. The name means ‘Watermills of the Sea’, a nod to the raucous stream that once ran through the area and powered a set of waterwheels. More ruggedly beautiful scenes can be found in the sequence of wild beaches that run up and down the coast, none more sought-after than the popular Praia do Magoito.

For the best views of the seaside town, head to this marked viewpoint on the northern shore.

Get there: Azenhas do Mar is located 10km (6 miles) from Sintra and is easily reached by local bus.

A definitive list of the most beautiful places in Portugal, from pretty cities and cute Portuguese towns to the best beaches and national parks. #Portugal #Europe #Lisbon #Porto #Sintra #Algarve | Where to go in Portugal | Portugal travel | Things to do in Portugal | Portugal guide

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11 Comments

As a local from Porto I can confirm that Porto IS truly a city of vibrant colors, incredible history and marvelous food, as you’ve highlighted. The charm of Alfama, the energy of Bairro Alto, and the magnificence of the Tower of Belem are among my personal favorites too.

Your article is a great resource for those seeking to discover the diversity and beauty of Portugal. I wholeheartedly agree that renting a car can provide an enhanced experience, but for those who prefer public transportation, it’s very reliable and efficient here.

Looking forward to seeing more of your insights on other parts of our beautiful country!

It’s not bad, really not bad at all. – very good choices. It brought back some really nice old memories… Then in Convent / Monastery of Mafra and Headquarters of the Portuguese Armies, where I began my military service, there are many things to discover everywhere around, especially on Friday nights and Saturday evenings, then often there are even small parties (rather in the pagan sense, but still all extremely open-minded) in some small alleys. Passing through Lisbon, you have to be careful not to go out at night alone, then even if the streets are full of all kinds of people, you have to be wary of those who hide in dark places and streets that are much too narrow. – Unfortunately, thefts and assaults by offenders are frequent there. On the other hand, almost the entire northwestern part of the country is pure paradise on Earth. -then there is everything, the Serra da Estrela which is almost all year round with snow (avoid in summer then it can be dangerous), there are natural waterfalls, lakes, mountains, etc. , etc… And traditional cuisine is the richest in food diversity. Otherwise, for those who like a good atmosphere in the very old American Faroese style, the two Alto-Alentejo and Baixo-Alentejo are ideal. – even the cuisine of the region is somewhat in this kind of context. Take good care of yourself. LOVES

Wonderful post! I recently got my visa for Portugal and was looking for some places to visit there. That’s when one of my friends shared about your blog. Some of the places that you shared in your blog might just end up in my travel itinerary.

you folks forgot the alto minho region. Beautiful hilly landscapes, geres national park, and braga.

Fantastic recommendation, thank you Manuel!

You left out the 7 time most beautifully place to visit, Madeira Island.

Fantastic suggestion, thank you!

Soo much love Portugal

Thank you! We are planning a trip to Portugal in November and this has been a great help!

This is the first Portugal destination blog I’ve seen that has included the Azores, so thank you! I personally think Flores Island is stunning – perfect for explorers and those that don’t want the typical Portugal Beach holiday!

Esqueceram Guimarães o berço de Portugal, uma cidade com muita história onde tudo começou.

15 Beautiful Places in Portugal • (2024 Edition)

Portugal is one of Europe’s TOP travel destinations. It’s become a popular hotspot amongst tourists and with good reason. The combination of sandy beaches, charming streets and immaculate architecture makes Portugal an innate paradise.

Portugal has such a rich variety of beauty, nature, bustling cities and tasteful architecture. Portugal is fantastic from head to toe. At the southern tip of Portugal is the postcard-worthy Algarve coast, and the very north is home to some stunning national parks.

So, if you are looking for some beautiful places in Portugal, congrats. You are in the right place! These destinations need to be added to your Portugal travel itinerary – IMMEDIATELY.

Portugal is an idyllic and versatile location. Whilst here, you can often find solo travellers looking for a serene escape, bubbly families on vacation or even large groups of friends indulging in fine dining and exploring.

With that in mind, these are the best locations in Portugal just for you! Whatever type of travel you enjoy, I’ve got you covered.

All you have to do is read… So go on… read!

3. The Algarve Region

5. sete cidades azores, 6. peneda-geres national park, porto, 7. belem tower, lisbon, 8. jeronimos monastery, lisbon, 9. the douro valley, porto, 10. alentejo’s sunflower fields, 11. the berlengas islands, 12. st. george’s castle, 14. amarante, how to see beautiful places in portugal, faqs about beautiful places in portugal, final thoughts about beautiful places in portugal.

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Portugal’s second-largest city is Porto which is a great alternative to Lisbon. Whilst Porto is still popular amongst tourists, this area is usually far less busy.

Porto resembles Lisbon in its architecture and has a beautiful river and hilly streets. The prices are also similar, so most travellers tend to book a hotel outside of Porto and travel there on a day trip. Pro travel tip: plan your trip to Porto before visiting to avoid crowds and make the most of your time there.

In Porto, you can find gardens to explore, mediaeval castles and cathedrals. If you’re hoping to live more like a local and explore the towns you can book a Tuk-Tuk guided tour that takes you through the vibrant city.

Be sure to pick up a souvenir whilst there! Oh, and don’t forget to drink some port, of course. When in Rome, I mean Porto, right?

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It would be challenging to write this list without including the gorgeous capital city, Lisbon. Many would even go as far as saying this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe (and I would definitely agree). If you’re backpacking Portugal , you’ll definitely find yourself here.

Whilst in Lisbon, you will be quickly greeted with mosaic-tiled streets, picturesque views and fresh sea air. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for stunning views of the city, drive along the prettiest road to Cape Roca to discover the Portuguese coast and spend the evening enjoying the entertainment at Casino Estoril.

Remember that Lisbon is popular amongst tourists and tends to be VERY busy, especially during the summer months. The city also tends to be more expensive than other areas of Portugal, so you should book attractions in advance. Still, it’s one of my personal favourite cities and 100% worth the visit.

Transformed in the 1960s to the “holiday makers’ favourite destination in Portugal”, the Algarve Region continually makes the list of the top 10 places to visit in Portugal. Located in the southernmost region, travellers often visit time and time again due to the welcoming vibe and gorgeous sandy beaches.

Alongside that, there are many beach-themed activities to be enjoyed. Book a boat tour and swim alongside wild dolphins and explore the natural caves and grottos. The evenings are also a great opportunity to meet other travellers in Portuguese restaurants and bars where live music is played.

The atmosphere staying in the Algarve Region is way more peaceful than the city centre. You should expect a more laid-back, slow-living kind of ambience.

With that in mind, this area may not be for you if you’re looking to jam-pack your trip with attractions. Either way, I can’t imagine anyone ever regretting visiting The Algarve!

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Nestled within Serra de Sintra is the small town of Sintra. Despite being small in size, this whimsical town in one of Portugal’s sensational national parks is akin to stepping into a storybook. For the architecture appreciators, Sintra became the first centre of European Romantic architecture in the 19th century.

In Sintra, you will find gorgeous colourful castles which can be explored through guided tours. Some of the tourist favourites include Pena Palace and the Palace of Sintra. This is a photographer’s dream; the colours are nothing short of amazing.

After visiting the palaces, head to the coast to unwind and soak up the scenic views or spend time at the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park which is home to mountains, forests, and even more sandy beaches.

Top Tip! Keep in mind that some areas of Sintra are walkable but the castles are far apart. It can take around 30 minutes to drive from the most popular castles in the area, so plan ahead!

Located in the remote area of Sao Miguel Island, Sete Cidades is arguably the most beautiful place in Portugal to stay in . This is my personal favourite location in the whole of Portugal. Yeah, I went there.

At this destination, you will discover a majestic volcano crater filled with two incredible lakes called Green Lake and Blue Lake. To make this location even more beautiful, the crater is covered with wonderful forestry.

Visitors will often enjoy a hike to the “King’s View” where they will be subjected to panoramic views of the Green Lake. You can even hire kayaks or paddle boards to head out onto the lake yourself. Jeep tours are the most popular tour here.

You should arrange to visit this location on a day with minimal fog and mild weather to avoid disappointment. Also, the weather in this area is temperamental, so it would be best to pack a raincoat and bring sunscreen to cover all weather outcomes.

Another nature-filled area is the Peneda-Geres National Park in Porto which is the oldest and largest national park in Portugal. Also known simply as Geres, it can be found just on the border of Spain in the northern tip of Portugal.

This area is rich in history. The park is FILLED with ancient villages, making you feel like no time has passed. If you’re staying in Porto you HAVE to check it out!

In addition to that, this is also a wildlife lovers’ paradise. You’ll likely spot deer, golden eagles, wild boars, and otters. You can also take a guided tour to peaceful waterfalls and rivers where you can kayak or canoe.

Again, this destination is hugely weather dependent. In the summer, the heat may be unbearable to hike in and the area is often busy in the Spring. The early months of fall would be a great time to visit, however, the weather will be much cooler.

Completed in the early 1500s, the Belem Tower is the epitome of discovering Portugal’s extensive history. This 100ft high tower was built to honour St. Vincent, Portugal’s Patron Saint, and has a late Gothic influence within its architecture.

The tower itself has ornate balconies and watch posts which allow for dramatic views of the Tagus River and the 25th April Bridge. Inside the tower, you’ll find the classic Kings Room, the Governor’s Room, and a chapel with a spectacular vaulted ceiling.

Belem Tower is on everyone’s Lisbon itinerary , so expect long queues. Oftentimes, you will find that travellers will visit the tower simply to admire it rather than wait to climb it.

That being said, if you do want to climb the tower, you should book tickets ahead of time to avoid long waiting times. Also, keep in mind that it would be best to climb the tower on a clear day to ensure unobstructed views.

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Arguably one of the most beautiful places in Portugal is the iconic Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon. The monastery is a religious building that was built in 1501 and in 1983 was declared a World Heritage Site.

The monastery is also conveniently located nearby the Belem Tower and is one of the most visited sites in Portugal. Because of this, the area is often populated by tourists. Although the hostels in Portugal are so much fun, these most-visited sites aren’t.

The monastery was once home to catholic monks and is currently home to Vasco da Gama’s tomb, who was a famous Portuguese explorer.

The best way to explore the monastery is to book a guided tour where your guide will explain the monastery’s significance in detail. Without a tour guide, you may find it challenging to access each area due to the large crowds.

After exploring inside, remember to take a stroll around the elegant gardens and stop by the Thai Pavilion gardens.

The River Douro is the third largest river in the Iberian Peninsula. It flows for a whopping and very impressive 897 km! The river can be found in Douro Valley, which begins in the Spanish town of Duruelo de la Sierra and ends in Porto.

The area is well known for wine production and the landscape is covered in wine-producing farms, vines, and steep hills. Alongside that, you’ll discover gorgeous countryside views, calming riverside areas to unwind in, and charming towns.

Embark on a wine-tasting tour in Douro Valley and visit the most famous wineries in this area. Then, learn about the valley’s wine industry in the Douro Museum in Regua.

Visiting Douro Valley can be time-consuming as the wine-tasting tours in Portugal can be hours long (especially if it turns into more like wine-drinking than tasting). You should set aside at least half a day in your itinerary to explore this area.

If you’re visiting Portugal in Summer, you have to visit the sunflower fields in Alentejo. It makes for one hell of a photo backdrop and is just a downright gorgeous sight.

The location is filled with natural beauty. Often, travellers will visit just to capture whimsical photos of the six-foot flowers that bloom here. The vibrant yellow colour looks like an over-edited and over-saturated image, but it’s real life!

Overall, this place just has such a feel-good vibe from the sunflowers, I challenge anyone to leave this place feeling unhappy. Stop by shops that serve honey from local beekeepers , inhale the fragrant scent of lavender, and take a stroll in the wonderful countryside.

Alentejo is a lesser-known area of Portugal, so expect a more serene atmosphere with more locals than tourists. Although it is great for an escape from the city, there is far less to do in this area.

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When looking for unique places to visit in Portugal, head to The Berlengas Islands!

Whilst here, visit the fortress and take a walking tour. Or, soak up the sun on one of Portugal’s beautiful beaches .

Pssst, travel tip! The island only allows 350 visitors a day. Book in advance!

The 11th-century St. George’s Castle is a major landmark in Portugal.

This medieval castle has encapsulating Moorish architecture. Although it had to be rebuilt in 1755, it has so many stories waiting to be uncovered. Explore the castle and take in the views of the sea and the iconic terracotta rooftops.

Evora is a charming small town that has been named a world heritage site due to its preserved architecture.

If you’re a history buff, add travelling to Evora to your Portugal itinerary! Here, you’ll discover the Gothic Se Cathedral and the Palacio dos Duques de Cadaval – another gorgeous Portuguese palace.

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Amarante is a quaint, scenic town with a wonderful river running through it. Founded in 360 BC, Amarante has a deep historic nature that is elevated by the friendly locals here.

Enjoy Amarante’s famous cakes and Portuguese best dishes at riverside cafes, stroll by the river or attend a wine-tasting tour.

This seaside town is unknown to many travellers (lucky you). But, the beauty in Estoi is captured in narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and scenic coastal views.

The main attraction in Estoi is the 19th-century restored palace, Palacio do Visconde de Estoi, which makes for the perfect backdrop for photos.

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Portugal has many transport options to easily take you from one location to the next.

Train – The main way to travel in Portugal is by train. The railway connects most of the cities. Train ticket prices are dependent on the distance but are usually around €25.
Bus – If you want to visit the coast, buses are often the only option. You can expect to pay around €2 for one-way tickets or you can purchase a day pass for around €6.
Bike – If you’re travelling on a strict budget and only staying in one area, biking is a common form of transport with bicycle paths in most areas of Portugal. However, remember that Portugal does have many cobbled streets which can make it challenging to cycle on.

Here are some FAQs about beautiful places in Portugal.

Where is the nicest place in Portugal?

For me, it’s Sete Cidades. Also, shoutout to the lesser visited Island of Madeira. But as with anything, this is completely subjective and anyone who likes a city will surely fall in love with Lisbon. Get out there and decide for yourself!

What is the most beautiful place in Portugal by the sea?

This has to be the Algarve region, surely! This place in southern Portugal is just a dream. People visit the Algarve to unwind in a laid-back and peaceful part of Portugal. Exploring the wonderful caves and relaxing on the sandy beaches is hard to beat. You can even see some dolphins from the beach if you’re lucky!

What is the most beautiful place in Portugal for a family vacation?

Lisbon! Lisbon has something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Vacations to Lisbon are best booked as early as possible though. It’s a popular destination for a reason!

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To conclude, you won’t be short of beautiful places in Portugal . From the iconic Belem Tower, the winding nature in Douro Valley, or the sandy beaches in The Algarve Region, you will be steeped in culture, history, and scenic views.

Personally, whilst I think all of these areas are well worth the visit, you just have to stop by Lisbon. It’s my personal favourite city in Europe. Get yourself there and find out why! You will not be disappointed, trust me, folks.

Check out the best hostels in Lisbon to kickstart your adventure.
If you’re heading north, know where to stay in Porto before you get there.
Unwind, reset and recharge at a yoga retreat in Portugal . Why not?
Check out this list of Portugal’s best beaches . There are SO many great ones.
Prepare for a longer stay next time by learning the cost of living in Portugal .
Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Morocco guide .

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These Are The 22 Most Beautiful Places In Portugal To Visit

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

These Are The 22 Most Beautiful Places In Portugal To Visit

If you want to see the best of Portugal but are unsure where to go, I have you covered! There is no shortage of breathtaking places to see in Portugal, and the travel information in this guide highlights towns, cities, coastal areas and national parks. It tells you what to see and do in each destination and tells you why Portugal needs to be the next place you travel to!

Table of Contents

Is Portugal Worth Visiting?

Portugal has a string of great places to visit and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Its temperate climate of hot summer days and mild winters allows visitors to enjoy its world heritage sites, bustling cities, idyllic scenery and delicious traditional food all year round.

And it doesn’t stop there. Add the unique natural landscapes of the stunning islands of the Azores and Madeira and the white sandy beaches that entice visitors to the Algarve, arguably the best part of Portugal to visit, and you can see why Portugal is worth visiting.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the opportunity to kayak, paddleboard and surf in Portugal’s sea, rivers and lakes, and walkers will love the challenge of the hiking trails in Madeira’s “Levada channels” high up in the mountains.

And let’s not forget the historical landmarks that Portugal is famous for, as well as the modern street art in Lisbon, Porto and Agueda, a nod to the 21st century. One thing’s for sure; there are so many places to visit in Portugal that all you will have to worry about is how long you will stay!

These destination travel guides highlight the best places to go in Portugal. From beaches and national parks to bustling towns and cities, there will surely be a place perfect for you.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my disclaimer and privacy policy.

Portugal Location Map

1. Explore Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is the perfect destination for a European city break. It is also a great starting point for exploring the rest of the country.

This colourful, cosmopolitan city is chilled but buzzy, cool but cultured and overflowing with things to see and do, making it one of the best cities in Portugal.

Lisbon, which sits on the river Tagus, is a city of hills, which means castles and epic viewpoints. If you’re not into hauling yourself up a hill, Lisbon has the answer in its iconic yellow trams and funiculars.

Take the tram up to São Jorge Castle and check out the fabulous views across the city. Sunset is a good time to do this.

Wind your way down through the cobblestone lanes of the city’s oldest district, Alfama , one of the best places to visit in Lisbon.

Maybe stop for ameijoas a bulhao pato (dish of clams) made with olive oil, white wine, garlic, and bay leaves, and one of Portugal’s popular food dishes .

Look out for colourful tiled walls and listen out for the mournful strains of Fado music seeping out from the shuttered windows of cosy bars and restaurants in Barrio Alto.

Getting around Lisbon

It is really easy to get around using the Lisbon metro . You can take the train to the beautiful Jerónimos Monastery in Belem, a Unesco World Heritage Site.

While you are there, try Pasteis de Belem, Lisbon’s famous custard tarts – one of my favourite things about Lisbon. The bakery is right next door to the monastery!

While in Belem, check out the Monument to the Discoveries, the Belem Tower and the futuristic Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) – and that’s just day one.

And the beauty of visiting Lisbon is that you can enjoy both the city and the sea all in one trip with a visit to the surfing town of Ericeira , a mere 40-minute drive away and one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Portugal.

For more things to do in Lisbon, check out this 3-day Lisbon itinerary . You can also find the best districts to stay in Lisbon in this comprehensive accommodation guide.

If you are looking for weekend breaks from Lisbon, there are plenty to choose from. One of the loveliest places to visit is Castelo Branco . It’s a 2-and-a-half-hour drive from Lisbon and a perfect place to visit, especially in June when the cherry season arrives.

Traveller Tip:

Stay at the 5* EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel in Amoreiras neighbourhood. This modern hotel has a rooftop infinity pool with fabulous views over the city. It’s also very close to the Metro station or a 25-minute walk to the city centre.

Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon History, stories and lifestyle walking tour

Buy tickets for the Lisbon Aquarium

Lisbon food and wine tasting tour

Take a day trip from Lisbon to Pena Palace Sintra, and Cascais

2. Discover Porto and its famous wine cellars

Porto is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the top 10 places to see in Portugal.

Nestled along the Iberian peninsula and known for being the birthplace of port wine, there are many port cellars in Porto along the banks of the magnificent Douro River, mostly in Vila Nova.

There are, however, so many other things to do in Porto that a 3-night break to Portugal’s second-largest city is a must.

Down by the river in Porto’s trendy Ribeiro district. You will find restaurants, bars and Porto boat tours cruising beneath the city’s six bridges.

Glide underneath the city’s landmark Dom Luis 1 bridge, designed by one of Gustave Eiffel’s students, and marvel at the double-decker pedestrian and vehicle crossing.

Porto is also well known for the white and blue “azulejo” tiles .

Visitors can see them decorating buildings all around the city. One of the things to see in Porto is the beautiful azulejo tiles at the Sao Bento train station. They are worth checking out even if you aren’t catching a train!

Harry Potter in Porto

History lovers will find visiting Igreja de São Francisco and its gruesome catacombs fascinating. At the same time, Porto Cathedral, with outstanding views down to the river, is a must-see Porto landmark.

Harry Potter fans won’t want to miss Librario Lello, the charming bookstore supposedly the inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s novels.

Make sure that while you are in the city of Porto, you try two regional dishes. The first is Francesinha – a sandwich containing melted cheese, cooked meat, tomato and beer sauce. The second is an egg custard pastry called Pastel de Nata available at almost every Porto bakery!

Interior of a book store with central red stairs

Best Things to Do in Porto

Palacio-da-Bolsa guided tour in Porto

Hear traditional fado music at a live show with wine

Duoro Valley, wine tasting on a day cruise from Porto

3. Take a cruise in the Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most beautiful places, and a Douro River cruise is one of the top things to do in Portugal.

With the gentle river meandering through thousands of acres of terraced vine-covered hills, this idyllic section of central Portugal is the world’s oldest demarcated wine region.

Grapes have been grown in the Douro Valley for over 2,000 years, and the Portuguese authorities set their official boundaries in 1756.

For wine lovers, this is one of the best places to go in Portugal. Visit any number of the port houses and vineyards in the Douro Valley. Some of the best wineries in the Douro Valley , such as Sandeman and Croft, have tasting rooms directly off the main highway.

Another classic Douro activity is to take a trip on a “Rabelo,” a traditional flat-bottomed boat, down the river itself.

A look at Pinhao

Visitors should also stop in the small town of Pinhao. Though it only had one main street, Pinhao is the largest settlement in the region. It has a historic blue-tiled train station and an adorable wine shop that offers tastings and Portuguese pasteis de Nata (custard tarts).

There are plenty of places to stay in Pinhao , but for those looking for true 5-star luxury, the Vintage House set in a former 18th-century wine estate offers the perfect stay in the Douro Valley.

The most popular place to stay in the Douro Valley is at one of the wineries – many of the “casas” operate as a B&B.

You will also find several lovely boutique inns, like Casa Cimeira , dotted along the Duoro River.

If you’re short on time, I recommend a guided day tour. That way, you can learn about the local history and culture, drink an irresponsible amount of port (without worrying about driving), and see the beauty of the Douro Valley from every angle.

Best Things to Do in the Duoro Valley

Visit Pinhão and enjoy a one-hour Rabelo boat guided tour

Best Duoro Valley Tours

From Porto Duoro wine tour with lunch and cruise

4. Visit the historical city of Braga

Less than an hour from the well-known tourist hotspot of Porto is Portugal’s oldest city, Braga. It oozes history, religion and stunning Baroque architecture and is home to Portugal’s oldest religious monument, Sé Cathedral, and other churches.

Day trip visitors to Braga often start the day by venturing out of the city centre, where the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bom Jesus do Monte sits proudly on top of a hill.

Bom Jesus greets pilgrims and tourists alike with a spectacular staircase of nearly 600 steps leading up to the chapel. There’s a funicular available too, and the surrounding gardens mean it’s a hit with visitors and a landmark not to miss while in Braga.

Returning to the city centre, a trip to Sé Cathedral is a must. A walk through the colourful streets and past traditional tile-covered buildings will undoubtedly lead you to more churches, museums and the all-important street cafes.

Be sure not to miss a walk through Arco da Porta Nova, the beautiful Baroque arch built in the 18th century, and don’t forget to visit Braga Tower, a remnant of the medieval castle of Braga.

To get an authentic feel for Braga, my favourite thing to do is head to one of the markets. Spend a while perusing the different stalls before having a coffee at the popular Café A Brasileira . Come evening; there’s only one thing for it, the traditional Portuguese dish francesinha for dinner.

Best Things to Do in Braga

Braga fun city tour by tuk tuk

Best Braga Tours

From Porto – Braga and Guimarães day trip

5. Wander the cobbled streets of Coimbra

One of the most beautiful towns in Portugal, yet one of the lesser-known UNESCO world heritage sites, is the charming river town of Coimbra, which can be visited from Porto on a day trip.

Steeped in amazing historical monuments, Coimbra is home to the oldest academic institution in Portugal and was once a Moorish stronghold.

There are many interesting things to do in Coimbra , including taking a walk through the quaint streets of the 12th-century University of Coimbra, getting wowed by its stunning architecture (Santa Cruz Monastery and Joanine Library are especially remarkable), and learning all about its Harry Potter legacy.

Wander through the steep yet beautiful historic centre, listen to a soulful Fado rendition, and get some stunning city views across Rio Mondego.

Be sure to carry a good pair of walking shoes because the old town and the university are located on a hill slope, and a lot of walking is involved.

When in Coimbra, try Pastel de Tentúgal, a unique Portuguese dessert from the nearby town of Tentúgal.

Don’t forget to add a half-day trip to the Roman ruins of Conimbriga which are less than 10 miles away. Conimbriga is home to some of the most well-preserved Roman mosaics in the world.

Best Things to Do in Coimbra

Coimbra live fado show with wine tasting

Mondego River kayaking tour

University of Coimbra walking tour

Best Coimbra Tours

Day trip from Porto to Fatima and Coimbra

6. See the Umbrella Sky project in Águeda

Águeda, a small town of 47,000 inhabitants, is located in Portugal, one hour from Porto (63km).

It is famed for the Umbrella Sky Project installation , shading the streets during hot summer days and is one of the most fun places in Portugal.

Hundreds of vibrantly coloured umbrellas cover multiple streets throughout the charming town.

It is probably one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal and gives so many positive vibes. There are also tons of street art and music events making this small town a worthwhile stop on your trip to Portugal.

You don’t need long to see the small village of Águeda – a couple of hours will be plenty. Just wander the happy streets and stop by O Tipico for lunch, indulging in their fantastic food.

Closely situated 30 minutes from Aveiro, “the Venice of Portugal” is known for its canal resembling Venice. You can stay overnight in Aveiro as there may be more options as it’s a bit larger town.

If you up for visiting off-the-beaten-track destinations, then Águeda is for you! It is definitely one of the lesser-known places to go in Portugal and so very unique.

7. Visit the Unesco World Heritage Site of Evora

Step back in time to the ancient city of Evora. Narrow cobbled streets wind through a maze of local shops, ornate churches, outdoor cafes and Roman ruins.

This UNESCO World Heritage city dates back over five thousand years and has been inhabited since the 2nd century B.C.

The walled city sits 83 miles south of Lisbon and is a good halfway point to the Algarve. It is surrounded by the picturesque Alentejo region known for its olive fields and traditional villages.

Evora’s 16th-century whitewashed buildings are decorated with wrought-iron balconies and azulejos tiles. Open-air shops sell cork products, ceramic tiles and other regional keepsakes.

Evora is known for its 1st-century Roman ruins and The Templo Romano Evora, which boasts 12 original stone pillars.

This walkable historic city is also known for its grand churches, and there are several must-see tourist attractions in Evora. Igreja de Sao Francisco is decorated in carved wood and azulejo tiles.

A visit to the eerie Capela dos Ossos, Chapel of Bones, is off the main cathedral and one of the unusual things to do in Portugal. Several thousand bones and skulls decorate the walls and pillars. It is said to be a reflection of the transience of human life.

The stunning 1204 A.D. Cathedral of Evora is one of the area’s oldest buildings, with rooftop views overlooking the city. The painted scenes of Angels and carved gold decor surrounding the 1580s Igreja da Graca make it a Portugal must-see.

Rua Alcarcova de Baixo is a popular evening hotspot with bars, cafes and outdoor seating.

Best Things to Do in Evora

Evora Tales and Legends Walking Tour

Best Evora Tours

From Lisbon – full-day Evora tour with wine tasting

Evora and Megaliths day tour from Lisbon

From Lisbon – Evora and Monsaraz day tour

8. See the picturesque canals of Aveiro

Only one hour from Porto by train, the charming city of Aveiro makes for an easy day trip or interesting stopover when driving between Lisbon and Porto.

Dubbed the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro is renowned for its picturesque canals and painted gondolas known as Moliceiros. Ferrying visitors along the maze of waterways in the city centre, a trip on a traditional boat is one of the highlights of visiting this seaport city.

Besides its rich maritime history of primarily cod fishing, Aveiro charms with elaborate Art Nouveau buildings, engaging museums and a wealth of cafes and restaurants lining the main waterway.

Stroll the quaint side streets to discover traditional Portuguese tiles adorning the old train station and many homes, churches and shops in the city.

Visit the salt pans in the Aveiro lagoon and the open-air eco-museum to discover the region’s history and traditional methods of salt production.

Pop into the famous Aveiro Fish Market to see the frantic action of the day’s catch being unloaded and try some of the region’s famous seafood dishes. And don’t miss sampling the sweet egg-yolk treat of Ovos Moles, the regional delicacy that pairs perfectly with coffee.

Whilst Aveiro offers visitors a wealth of laid-back activities, it is undoubtedly a “moliceiro” boat ride through the city canals that is a highlight and favoured activity from all who visit – not to be missed!

The elegant Hotel Moliceiro with delightful views over the central canal is a fabulous upmarket choice for those wishing to stay the night.

Brightly decorated boats in Aveiro Portugal

Best Things to Do in Aveiro

Traditional Moliciero boat tour in Aveiro

Aveiro boat trip and city highlights walking tour

Best Aveiro Tours

Aveiro half-day tour with cruise from Porto

From Porto: Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge

9. Enjoy the beach at Costa Nova Do Prado

Often mistaken to be in Aveiro, the beautiful beachside town of Costa Nova is actually a short drive away.

Surfers and wind-surfers favour Costa Nova for its magnificent waves and stunning beach. However, the magnet that pulls photographers and tourists to Costa Nova is the candy-striped houses that line the strip of land between the lagoon and the beach.

Once used as storage and shelter for fishermen’s equipment and boats, these shelters had no separating floors when first built. Over time, the fishermen added levels to enable families to live together.

These iconic traditional houses, known as “haystacks’ to the Portuguese, are now privately owned as holiday homes and holiday rentals.

If you want to stay in one of the candy-striped buildings, the M Costa Nova has been restored and has sea views.

You should visit the Fishing Market while in Costa Nova. Freshly caught shellfish from the lagoon is prepared and served immediately.

Costa Nova Portugal street with a large red wooden fish showing the link to fishing

10. Visit the fairytale Pina Palace in Sintra

Sintra is a special place and, without a doubt, one of Portugal’s best places to visit.

The town has been the home of the Portuguese royal family, Moorish princes, and eccentric millionaires since the 10th Century. They’ve all left behind some of the most magnificent fairytale castles and palaces in Europe that have made Sintra a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pena Palace is the most famous castle in Sintra , with its red and yellow towers visible for miles around.

If you want to look inside the palace, you need a ticket; otherwise, you can admire the palace from the outside. There are extensive gardens, and the view outside the palace is probably sufficient for most people.

The Moorish Castle has splendid views of the countryside and Pena Palace and has a fascinating history.

La Quinta de Regaleira was a private home whose owner designed the gardens to create a mystical wonderland.

You might recognise the Well of Initiation from photos on Instagram – it was used for ceremonies possibly related to the Freemasons or Tarot – whatever its purpose, don’t miss exploring the gardens. The Sintra National Palace and the Palace of Monserrate are other popular attractions here.

Many people visit the magical town of Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon , but you will have more time to explore if you spend at least one night here.

If you have the time, a drive through the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais to Cabo da Roca on the coast is also worth the effort.

Make sure to watch the sunset from the Moorish Castle, the views are incredible!

a circular column with internal stairs and port holes known as the well of initiation in Sintra Portugal

Best Things to Do in Sintra

Pena Palace and park entrance ticket

Quinta da Regaleira skip-the-queue ticket with audio tour

Best Sintra Tours

From Lisbon day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais

11. Walk the historic city walls in Obidos

You feel like you’ve gone back in time when you visit Obidos , about an hour north of Lisbon. It’s a small, well-preserved medieval town with much to offer visitors.

City walls surround the town, much like Dubrovnik in Croatia . They are pretty impressive to see but even more spectacular to walk on. You get terrific views of Obidos and the surrounding countryside.

Allow at least an hour for this walk, then treat yourself to the local cherry-flavoured liquor, Ginja served in a chocolate cup.

Many stands sell Ginja and other souvenirs along the town’s main road. Nearby, venture inside the Santa Maria Church, where King Afonso V married his cousin Isabel in 1444.

The best time to go to Obidos is in July when they have the Medieval Festival. You can bring a medieval costume or rent one during your visit. The highlight is their medieval feasts on Friday and Saturday evenings.

You can easily visit Obidos on a day trip if you have a car or take the bus. There are also many organized tours from Lisbon.

However, why not stay longer at the luxury hotel Pousada Castelo de Obidos in the town’s medieval castle?

I loved the city wall walk, but there were times it was a bit scary without a handrail. Don’t let that deter you, just be careful; the views are worth it.

Best Obidos Tours

From Lisbon – Fatima, Obidos, Batalha, and Nazare Group Tour

12. Take in the sea air at Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo is a charismatic coastal city in northern Portugal, 70km from Porto. It is a city bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Lima River.

The city has a strong tie with the sea, with a big port. It was known for its shipbuilding and essential role in cod fishing campaigns.

But besides the beach and the river, the city has a charming old medieval city centre with plenty to do. You will find the costume museum in the city centre, where you can admire different local costumes.

Viana do Castelo is also known for its jewellery, the famous heart of Viana, a golden heart with a beautiful design in filigree.

You must visit Santa Luzia Basilica atop the hill outside the centre. From the Basilica, you will find breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the city of Viana do Castelo, the Lima River, and the shoreline.

Another top attraction is the Gil Eanes Hospital Ship, a former hospital ship converted into a museum. Here you will learn about Portugal’s brave history in the cod fishing campaigns.

Finally, you can spend time on the beach, surfing or sunbathing, or drive to Ponte de Lima, 30km from Viana do Castelo, one of Portugal’s oldest and most charming towns.

Viana do Castelo is also the perfect place to eat fresh fish, which is always delicious. But, our top tip is to try the “Bolas de Berlim” (Berliner) in the Natario pastry shop.

the ship museum in Viana do Castelo Portugal

Best Things to Do in Viana Do Castelo

Viana do Castelo kayak tour at Lima river

Viano do Castelo Vez river SUP tour with transfer options

Best Viana Do Castelo Tours

From Porto – Viana Do Castelo and Ponte Lima private tour

13. Enjoy outdoor adventures in Porto Covo

One of the standouts of an impressive line of terrific fishing villages along the southwestern coast of Portugal, and only a 2-hour drive from Lisbon, is lovely Porto Covo .

With fantastic trails along the photogenic cliffs up and down the coast, hikers and bikers will find plenty to occupy them.

Like most places along Portugal’s Atlantic Coast, surfing is a top Portugal pastime and one of the many outdoor things to do in Porto Covo.

Several top beaches within walking distance of the village offer a nice variety of scenic, sheltered and wild surf.

Praia Grande is a big, beautiful stretch of sand next to Porto Covo that gets busy mid-summer but usually still has plenty of room for everyone to spread out.

Meanwhile, in the other direction, Praia dos Buizinhos is a picturesque jumble of rocks great for photos and collecting seashells.

Visitors can find the best surfing in Portugal at Praia de Vale Figueiras.

Further south, the old ruins at Praia da Ilha do Pessegueiro are perfect for history lovers and anyone fascinated by the remains of Forte do Santo Alberto, which are still noticeable on the small offshore island.

A guided day trip from Lisbon highlighting the southwest coast of Portugal is a good way of seeing Porto Covo if you are strapped for time.

There is a good selection of local Portuguese restaurants specializing in excellent seafood in the gorgeous, whitewashed old town centre. With mild winters and hot, sunny summers, Porto Covo is a superb choice nearly all year round.

Parque Campisimo Porto Covo offers a wide range of accommodation from comfortable suites with kitchenettes, to camping and RV spots.

a Portuguese courtyard with white and blue buildings with terracotta tiled roofs

14. Wander around Faro, the Algarve’s charming capital city

Faro is the capital of the Algarve but is often regarded as simply the gateway to Portugal’s beach resorts. Before heading to other places in the Algarve, take some time to explore the charming town of Faro.

Start by wandering along Faro’s streets lined with whitewashed buildings. Stop to peek inside traditional shops selling Portuguese handicrafts and delicacies.

Then on to the Cathedral of Santa Maria with its bone chapel and bell tower. Climb to the top for an amazing view over the town of Faro and the natural park of Ria Formosa.

Afterwards, check out the ancient Roman and Moorish city walls, where you will find Faro Cathedral and Arco da Vila, the ornate city gate.

And don’t forget there are beautiful beaches in Faro. A quick 25-minute walk from Faro’s train station will find you on one of the best beaches in Portugal (Praia de Barreta). Favoured by windsurfers and sailing enthusiasts, it is the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the town of Faro.

If you want somewhere special to eat in Faro, look no further than Ria Formosa Restaurant on the rooftop of Hotel Faro . The food is amazing, and the views across the harbour are sensational.

Best Things to Do in Faro

Fado show at the Municipal museum

Faro Old Town guided walking food tour

Hop-on Hop-off Faro city tour by tourist train

Best Faro Tours

From Faro – Dolphin watching and wildlife

Deserta Island and Farol Island catamaran boat trip from Faro

From Faro – Ria Formosa sunset boat trip

From Faro – Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach guided day trip

15. Discover Estoi, a hidden gem in the Algarve

Another great place to visit and a quick 15 minutes by taxi from Faro is the town of Estoi.

A hidden gem in the Algarve, this sleepy town has the most beautiful restored 19th-century pink facade palace turned into a luxury hotel called Pousada Palacio de Estoi. It reminds me of the Villa Ephrussi on the French Riviera.

You can wander around the hotel grounds and enjoy a refreshing drink under its pastel bougainvillaea trees before checking out the mosaics and Roman Ruins of Milreu, a short walk away or a herb tour at Dias de Aromas.

16. Stroll through the historic streets of Tavira

Visit Tavira, one of Portugal’s prettiest towns in the eastern Algarve region, and you’ll step back in time. This hidden gem is a mere 30 kilometres from the Spanish border. As you ramble through its old streets and alleyways, one cannot help but fall under its spell.

It has virtually remained unchanged over time. Its traditional Portuguese characteristics and Moorish influences are still very much everywhere. Beautiful latticework doors and the Moorish-influenced door knockers in the shape of hands to the colourful azulejo tiling to the low whitewash buildings.

Don’t miss some of Tavira’s key historic buildings . The 16th-century Renaissance church (Church of Mercy). The 13th-century Gothic-style church (Church of Saint Maria), or the seven-arched Roman bridge spanning the slow-flowing river of Gilão from the 1100s.

After you have explored the charming old town, it’s time to head to the beach! Tavira offers a beautiful coastline with several golden sand beaches with warm turquoise water.

The beaches are a short ferry ride away, separated from the mainland by lagoons and waterways, part of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa.

Don’t miss the incredible sight of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. It is considered one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal.

A medieval arched bridge spanning the river that flows through Tavira

Best Things to Do in Tavira

Cabanas de Tavira dolphin watching boat tour

Tavira tuk tuk city tour

Tavira hop-on hop-off tourist train

Best Tavira Tours

From Albufeira full day tour of Faro, Olhão and Tavira

17. See the famous cliffs and beaches of Lagos

One of the best places to visit in Portugal is the lively town of Lagos in the western Algarve. It is also one of the best places in Portugal for families, with its sandy beaches and shallow waters.

Jam-packed with fun water activities, beautiful beaches such as Meia Praia, and surrounded by nature, there are many things to do in Lagos , making it one of the best coastal towns in Portugal.

Head to the incredible cliff formations at Ponta da Piedade or to the westernmost spot of Portugal to see the Sagres cliffs and castle.

You can also take a boat trip to explore the incredible Algarve rock formations and caves from the water. Lagos is also perfect for learning how to surf, with some of the best surf spots in Europe close by. Or maybe you want to learn to scuba dive to discover hidden cave systems?

Lagos’ historic old town is quaint with a chilled vibe that attracts tourists from all over Europe and is often voted as one of the top 10 places to visit in Portugal.

Lagos is excellent for bars with live bands and has lots of restaurants. You can find anything from ecological vegan food to local dishes. It is also a good destination for solo travellers hoping to meet other like-minded travellers.

Traveller Tip:

Especially spectacular is Benagil Cave! It’s only a short boat drive away, but to enter the actual cave, you have to go by SUP or kayak. Consider a day trip to Benagil beach and see the caves from there.

Best Things to Do in Lagos

3-hour classic Algarve food tour

Kayaking and boat cave explorer tour

Boat cruise to Ponta da Piedade

Algarve catamaran cruise

Lagoa Slide and Splash Waterpark entry tickets

18. Explore the incredible Benagil caves in Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro is a beautiful small fishing town on the western Algarve coast of Portugal. Most Algarve tourists visit for a relaxing beach holiday, but one of the best things to do in Carvoeiro is to visit the Benagil caves and a trip to the port town of Lagos.

The stunning Praia de Carvoeiro beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.

Along with golden sands and rock formations, you’ll find small caves in the bay for those who like exploring. Carvoeiro is an excellent holiday destination for families and one of the best places to go in Portugal for couples. It is an easy day trip from Albufeira or Ferragudo.

You’ll also find a mix of the younger and older generation during the summer when Carvoeiro can get quite busy.

It is quiet during the off-season and mainly caters for holiday visitors who come to relax on the golden beaches and enjoy Carvoeiro’s restaurants without the crowds.

Perched on the cliffside and offering stunning bay views is one of the popular Carvoeiro hotels, named Tivoli Carvoeiro.

If you plan on taking a day trip to Carvoeiro, make sure you arrive early to park. It can be challenging to find a spot on the narrow Portuguese streets, especially in peak season.

A view of the coast in Carvoeiro in Portugal with traditional houses perched on the cliffside

Best Things to Do in Carvoeiro

Benagil caves kayaking experience

Benagil Caves sunrise paddleboarding tour

Caves, coves and secret beaches Benagil kayaking tour

Best Carvoeiro Tours

From Portimão – Sunset Cruise to Benagil Cave

From Portimão – Pirate Ship Cave Cruise

Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP from Albufeira

Benagil sea cave tour with local guide from Lagos

From Vilamoura – guided sightseeing cruise of Benagil caves with beach BBQ and drinks

19. Visit Ria Formosa Natural Park, a must for nature lovers

Ria Formosa is a protected natural park in the northern Algarve region.

Stretching over 60 km of the Algarve coastline and covering an area of 18000 hectares, Ria Formosa Natural Park is a patch of mudflats, marshes, and a lagoon dotted with sandy beaches. The national park also includes five barrier islands and two peninsulas, all of which are one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders.

With a unique environment and rich biodiversity, Ria Formosa makes an ideal home for various flora and fauna. The lagoon is also the winter home for as many as 20,000 migratory birds crossing between Europe and Africa. Visitors can see ibis, flamingoes, herons, egrets, white storks, and many other bird species throughout the year.

Faro, Tavira and Olhao are the main towns located within or close to the natural park, making them an ideal base to explore.

As far as exploring Ria Formosa, there are many ways to do it. You can take boat and photography tours, which take roughly 5 hours.

You can also take boat trips to explore the five barrier islands. Alternatively, enjoy the walking trails through the pine forest and muddy marshes. You can also hire a kayak, stand-up paddle or snorkel in the waters; the options are truly unlimited.

Ria Formosa sandy beach within the natural park in Portugal

Best Ria Formosa Natural Park Tours

Ria Formosa Faro Islands catamaran cruise

Segway Tour and Birdwatching in Ria Formosa Natural Park

From Faro – 4 stops, three islands Ria Formosa catamaran cruise

From Olhão – 4 hour Ria Formosa Island Tour

20. Explore Madeira, Portugal’s Golden Island

Madeira lies over 1000 kilometres southwest of Portugal and enjoys a temperate climate all year round. The tropical Atlantic Island is an affordable and diverse destination.

Visitors can explore the city’s parks, museums and churches in the charming capital, Funchal , known for its purple jacaranda trees and black and white mosaic pavements. Alternatively, enjoy newer attractions like the CR7 museum (dedicated to local hero Cristiano Ronaldo) or Aquapark Madeira.

Take a scenic cable car ride from Funchal’s long promenade to the colourful Monte Palace Tropical Gardens . Return to Funchal with a thrilling ride on Monte’s iconic wicker toboggans, followed by a glass of Madeira wine to steady your nerves.

The rest of Madeira Island offers something for everyone. Swim in naturally formed pools at Porto Moniz, explore the lava tubes at Sao Vicente or learn about Madeiran culture at Santana Theme Park. Relax on a sandy beach in Calheta or tackle one of Madeira’s famous Levada hikes.

Keen hikers travel to Madeira worldwide to walk these scenic trails along the levadas (irrigation channels) that crisscross Madeira. Choose between mountain trails, on the coast or through dense forest.

Most visitors stay in Funchal, where the major attractions can be visited on foot, but we enjoyed a rural stay in Estreito da Calheta in the sunny southwest of the island.

If time permits, add a few days to your Madeira holiday itinerary and head to Madeira’s sister island, Porto Santo. Here, you will find idyllic golden sandy beaches and a laid-back vibe across the island.

There is a levada hike for everyone. A picturesque and varied hike is Levada do Risco.

Best Things to Do in Madeira

Madeira skywalk, Porto Moniz volcanic rocks and Fanal tour

Dolphin and whale watching by luxury catamaran

Madeira’s best of the East tour from Funchal

Rabacal levada hike and jeep safari from Funchal

Nuns Valley, Monte and sleigh ride tour from Funchal

21. Visit the Azores, Portugal’s Green Island

São Miguel, known as “Green Island,” is the largest of nine islands in the Azores archipelago, off mainland Portugal. It is known for its lush green landscapes and natural hot springs and is a wonderful holiday destination, particularly for travellers searching for an epic outdoor adventure.

Begin your Azores holiday by flying into the main Azores airport in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel’s capital city. Explore the striking streets and cobblestone squares on foot, or take to the waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.

Several companies at Marina Ponta Delgada offer water sports rentals and other activities like dolphin swimming and whale watching tours. Or join a private group island tour to see some of the hidden gems on São Miguel island.

Make a trip northwest from the capital to the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades.

Hike to jaw-dropping lookouts like Miradouro da Boca do Inferno or, if the weather allows, rent a kayak or SUP board and take in the view of the blue and green lakes from the water.

Finally, head to Furnas in the east to take a dip in the island’s famous hot springs.

While you’re here, try a quirky cup of purple tea at Chalet da Tia Mercês and delicious Cozida das Furnas or volcanic stew. This traditional stew is cooked underground with heat from the natural volcanic cooking holes and is available at many Portuguese restaurants.

No matter when you visit São Miguel, the weather can be wildly unpredictable – a fair price to pay when visiting a gorgeous volcanic island in the middle of the North Atlantic. Be sure to pack accordingly!

Green terraces on Sao Miguel island Portugal

Best Things to Do in the Azores

Sao Miguel swimming with dolphins

Half-day whale-watching trip

Sao Miguel West full-day van tour with lunch

Furnas night thermal pools and dinner

22. Be at one with nature in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Peneda-Gerês National Park is Portugal’s only national park and one of Portugal’s most famous landmarks .

It is situated in the north, close to the Spanish border. In addition to the stunning natural landscape, at Peneda-Gerês, you can also discover the region’s impressive biodiversity, embark on some adventure sports such as canyoning or rafting, go bird-watching, and swim in turquoise lagoons, or hike and take in the views.

It’s easy to spend a day exploring on your own or with the support of a local guide. Either way, it’s the perfect day trip from Porto. Visiting on your own, you’re able to go at your own pace; however, the local guides know all of the best things to do in Gerês , including finding great spots for swimming or photo opportunities.

Some companies that offer small-group tours of Peneda-Gerês are also involved in local sustainability efforts, such as Oporto Adventure Tours. These tours will often include local lunch in an authentic village and time for swimming in the lagoons, with a portion of ticket revenue dedicated to reforestation in the park.

There are many entrances and routes/trails throughout the park, so research your routes beforehand if you plan on going without a guide.

Bring binoculars! Many visitors often tout the lagoons, activities, and trails without doing much service to the local flora and fauna of the region. You may even be able to spot the elusive and endangered Pyrenean desman, a relation of the mole and shrew!

Waterfall and lake in Peneda-Geres National Park Portugal

Best Things to Do in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Self-guided electric bike tour in Peneda-Gerês National Park

2-Hour buggy tour in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Best Tours to Peneda-Gerês National Park

From Porto – small group day tour to the national park

From Porto – Peneda-Gerês National Park canyoning tour

Peneda-Gerês waterfall hike and kayaking from Porto

And there you have it! Twenty-one sensational places to visit in Portugal! Have you found a favourite Portuguese destination to add to your travel list? Let me know in the comments box below.

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my resources page to help you plan your trip.

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Angela Price is an accomplished travel writer bringing extensive expertise and passion to the world of travel. With over 35 years of globetrotting adventures under her belt and with a keen eye for unique experiences, she has established herself as an authoritative voice in travel, offering invaluable insights for fellow adventurers seeking to uncover the delights of worldwide destinations. Her motto is “live life wandering not wondering”

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Friday 26th of November 2021

Interesting post! These sensational places to visit in Portugal do make me feel like visiting there. Next month, it's Christmas so I might visit there with my lovely wife and celebrate Christmas together.

Tuesday 25th of May 2021

Useful, detailed post, thanks. Some new places added to our list!

Sunday 23rd of May 2021

Such a great post, can't wait to get back to Portugal and visit some of these places!

Love this post! Some beautiful little spots to add to my list!

WhereAngieWanders

I'm glad you found some new places to visit in Portugal - there certainly are a lot of really beautiful places to explore.

Miranda do Douro
Viana do Castelo
Corvo, The Crow Island of the Azores
Faial, The Blue Island of Azores
Flores, The Yellow Island of Azores
Graciosa, The White Island of the Azores
Pico, The Black Island of Azores
Santa Maria, The Sunshine Island of the Azores
São Jorge, The Brown Island of Azores
São Miguel, The Green Island of Azores
Terceira Island, The Festive Island of Azores
Central Portugal
Lisbon and Tagus Valley
Porto & Northern Portugal
Portugal Survival Guide
Entering Portugal
Guide to Learning Portuguese
Portugal Holidays
Average Temperatures in Portugal
Weather in Portugal
Portugal Visa Guide
Golden Visa Portugal
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2023
D7 Visa Guide
D2 Visa Guide
Food & Drink
History and Culture

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Millions travel to Portugal yearly, as this southern country is increasingly becoming a top destination in Europe. However, while most stick to Lisbon and Porto, the country has a wide range of places to visit, from rural and coastal areas to remote islands and busy cities.

Let’s take a look at the 10 best places to visit in Portugal if you are planning your itinerary.

For an already crafted itinerary, take a look at our 1 Month Portugal Itinerary that takes you to most of the places on this list.

The capital of Portugal there’s a reason most tourists head to Lisbon . One of the oldest cities in Western Europe, Lisbon is a cosmopolitan city filled with historical heritage, culture, and architecture that will leave a mark to remember. From the iconic calçada Portuguesa (cobbled streets) to the lively streets of Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s environment provides a comforting experience that will make you feel at home.

Porto was elected Best European Destination in 2010 and 2014 and has seen a boom in tourism ever since, giving other European countries a run for their money. 280 km north of Lisbon, the beautiful city of Porto lies along the Douro river. Home to Port wine, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and the stunning Ribeira district, Porto is not lacking in activities to experience. One of the oldest in Europe, Porto’s old town in the city center has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996.

3. Douro Valley

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Douro Valley is a cultural landscape of vineyards where Douro wines are grown and produced in traditional wine cellars. Departing from Porto, the Douro river flows in the middle of these green hills with vineyards. Beware, visiting the Douro Valley is quite expensive by Portuguese standards, but it is still a unique experience, known for the highest quality cuisine and wines.

Sintra was once a hidden gem in Portugal but has, in the past decade, been discovered by tourists. Despite the overcrowdedness in the historical center in the summer, Sintra is quite large and has beautiful places to explore. Located on the Portuguese Riviera, Sintra‘s mountainside is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sintra is known for its beautiful palaces and mansions, nineteenth-century gardens, and some of the best beaches in Portugal.

The region of the Algarve is one of the most sought out areas in Portugal, with tourists from all over the world. The warmest area in Portugal, it is known as the crown jewel of Portugal, where the population heads to in the summer. Along with beautiful beaches along the Algarve coastline, this region features quaint villages, waterparks, caves, delicious cuisine, and a lot more. Our favorite places in the Algarve are Tavira , Portimao, and Faro .

Located in Central Portugal, Coimbra is perhaps one of the cities in Portugal with the most historical significance. Once the capital of Portugal and once a Roman settlement, Coimbra’s mark on Portugal is far greater than it is given credit for. Home to one of the oldest universities in the world, as well as a renowned library, Coimbra is often referred to as the City of Knowledge. The University of Coimbra, as well as the Alta (uptown) area of the city, are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Alentejo

This region of the Alentejo is located in center-southern Portugal, covering over 31,600 km2 of land, the largest in the whole country. Between Lisbon and the Algarve, the Alentejo provides those visiting it with a diverse experience. From vast fields with olive groves and cork trees to hilltop villages with ancient castles and a stunning coastline of beaches, the Alentejo has so much to offer.

8. Monsanto

Located in the interior of Portugal, the village of Monsanto was not known to most people, despite the Portuguese. However, in late 2022, it was announced that the Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon was filmed in the iconic village of Monsanto! Monsanto is on the official route of Portuguese historical villages. In 1938, it was named the “most typical Portuguese village of all.” From the Monsanto castle to beautiful viewpoints, this village has unique features.

Madeira has an all-year-round summer climate, even in winter, gorgeous landscapes and tropical-like beaches. The island was elected the “World’s Leading Island Destination” from 2015 to 2021 by the World Travel Awards. While it is an autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira is actually located many miles away in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, 400 kilometers north of the Canary Islands. We also recommend visiting Porto Santo, a smaller beach island, a 3-hour ferry away.

Also an autonomous region of Portugal, the Azores archipelago is located between Lisbon and New York, 850 miles from Portugal. The nine islands cover up to 906 square miles of land. The largest island is São Miguel at 293 square miles. The eight other islands are Faial , Flores , Graciosa , Pico , São Jorge , Santa Maria , Terceira , and Corvo , the smallest one. Each island is unique, featuring its own lush greenery, landscapes, mountains, waterfalls, and viewpoints.

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15 Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (26)

Portugal is a gorgeous country to explore, and much more than cork products, it has become famous for the gorgeous sea and yummy port. It’s one country that seems to draw me back time and time again, with loads of historic cities, gorgeous national parks, and enough bacalhau to satisfy even the hungriest of tummies.

Lazy Days By The Coast... In Portugal (25)

One of the things I love most about Portugal is how unique each place feels. You can travel 30 minutes up the road and feel like you’re in a different country; it is very special.

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, make sure you take me with you so I can see some of these gorgeous places.

Look at the map I’ve made that shows off some of the very best places you must see on your next trip. You’re going to love Portugal! Então, o que você está Esperando?

1.) Wander around Braga

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (11)

A city perched pretty close to Porto and Amarante, it’s the perfect place to see some of Portugal’s most impressive buildings and history.

Make sure you visit the stunning Bom Jesus do Monte. Oh, and take a bottle of water, too. The many steps will make even the best Olympian out of breath!

2.) Explore the town of Amarante

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (6)

Not too far from Porto in the north of the country, Amarante is a great place to explore some of the histories of this beautiful region.

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Look out for the gorgeous arched bridge of Ponte São Gonçalo and wander the riverside route where there are lots of independent restaurants and cafes that line the route.

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (18)

You won’t be able to resist the sweet treats!

3.) Grab a tipple in Porto

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Porto is one of the country’s largest cities and sits in the north of the country.

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This hilly is one heck of a place to visit, think cobbled streets, fresh seafood and copious amounts of port that’ll keep you sozzled all evening!

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (3)

On our last visit, I kept forgetting that port was much more alcoholic than ‘regular wines’.

As you can imagine, an almighty hangover and bouts of feeling sorry for myself ensued.

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (19)

Make sure you haul yourself up to Torre dos Clérigos, discover the Ribeira area of the city and chow down at the Ode Porto Wine House which creates an amazing 3-course pairing menu that’s out of this world!

Also, make sure to check out and book these incredible boat tours and trips to the Duoro Valley (below). They’re incredible trips and well worth booking before you visit Porto.

4.) Visit the Medieval village time forgot, Sortelha

Sortelha is a tiny village that is dominated by one of its most imposing residences, the castle that overlooks the region.

Make sure to wander the castle grounds, though you’ll need comfy walking shoes for this ramble.

The whole village feels like you’ve been thrown back into Medieval times. A town that time forgot.

Read more: Quaint places to see in Portugal

5.) See the village built around a rock

Monsanto, a small village close to the border with Spain, is one of the most unique towns you’ll ever come across.

With less than 1,000 residents, it’s a rural and quaint little place that has to be seen to be believed.

Head over to Adega Tipica O Cruzeiro for a tasty bite to eat and some incredible views across the region.

Read more: Quaint places in Portugal to visit

6.) See the beauty of Sintra

The Amazing Monserrate Palace – An Often Missed Beauty In Sintra, Portugal (19)

It’s hard not to fall head-over-heels in love with Sintra . Perched within the Sintra Mountains, this region has some of the prettiest castles in all of Europe (shhh, don’t tell the others).

Around 30 minutes from the centre of Lisbon , it’s pretty easy to visit for a day trip (or two). Though, be sure to book your tickets to Pena Palace and the park (that’s just too beautiful to miss).

Make sure to visit; Pena Palace , Monserrate Palace , Castle of the Moors and the Palace of Sintra.

The Beautiful Pena Palace Of Sintra, Portugal (1)

These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are just too beautiful to miss.

7.) Discover the beauty of Cascais

The Beautiful Seaside Town Of Cascais In Portugal... (56)

This historic fishing town, just down the coast from the city of Lisbon , is the perfect place to chill out, explore the quaint town and explore the dramatic Atlantic coast.

It’s totally easy to visit by booking this beautiful full-day tour from Lisbon. Plus, the tour includes a stop-off at Sintra and Cabo da Roca, too.

It’s a family-friendly tour that’s great for exploring the history, culture and natural beauty of this area of Portugal.

The Beautiful Seaside Town Of Cascais In Portugal... (50)

Make sure to visit some of these top sites that you shouldn’t miss. You’ll love your time, here!

8.) See the waterfalls of the Azores

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (5)

The Azores is a volcanic archipelago that sits in the mid-Atlantic Ocean. A few hours by flight (and a little longer by boat), it’s one of Europe’s most dramatic sets of islands.

Think, of beautiful trails, incredible scenery and the most stunning natural landscapes you’ll witness.

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Don’t forget to visit the beautiful, Poço da Alagoinha on Flores Island – it’s breathtaking.

Finally, make sure to book this incredible whale-watching tour that’s staffed by biologists and naturalist guides. It’s incredible.

Book: Azores whale-watching tour

9.) Explore the streets of Lisbon

The capital city of Lisbon is one amazing place to visit. If it’s your first time to Portugal, you’re going to love how stunning it is.

Made up of various neighbourhoods, Lisbon has a whole array of eye-catching places you won’t want to miss. To make things easier to explore Lisbon, make sure to grab this Lisbon Card for 1/2/3 days . It’ll give you free public transport and free admission to some of the best things to do in Lisbon.

Plus, if you’re looking for some of the best views in the city, check out these perfect spots , they offer the perfect vistas to enjoy this gorgeous place.

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Make sure to visit the Belém Tower, explore Bairro Alto and grab a bite to eat at Kais which is based in an old warehouse in the city. It really is unique.

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Alternatively, check out one of these other top places to fill your tummy .

10.) Visit the island of Madeira

The Complete Guide To Visiting Madeira Things To See Do Eat (9)

In between Portugal and the Canary Islands is the relatively small island of Madeira .

The Complete Guide To Visiting Madeira Things To See Do Eat (41)

Once here, make sure to explore the capital city of Funchal, head out into the countryside and soak up the unspoilt landscape that is often overlooked when visiting Portugal.

11.) See the Chapel of Bones in Évora

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Évora is one stunning Roman city that’s now been protected with UNESCO World Heritage Status.

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Make sure you visit the Roman Temple, Praça do Giraldo and the rather macabre but a must-see, the Chapel of Bones that lines every wall.

It’s part of the bigger, Igreja de Sao Francisco church complex that’s just too beautiful to miss.

12.) Visit Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina

Photographs And Postcards… From Portugal (27)

It may have a pretty long name and one that I still can’t pronounce correctly, but it is a gorgeous area of Portugal to visit. This natural park is considered to be one of the finest stretches of coastline in Europe.

Untouched by development, the whole coastline hasn’t changed for thousands of years. It is beautiful.

Photographs And Postcards… From Portugal (21)

Make sure to stop at one of the many little fishing villages along the way and stay at the Enigma Nature and Water Hotel which overlooks the gorgeous countryside of the region.

13.) See the dramatic Sagres

Stunning Places You Have To See In Portugal (12)

Jutting out off the very tip of southwest Portugal, Sagres is one of the most dramatic coastline areas in the region.

Make sure you visit the fort and explore the cliffside walking routes and Cape St. Vincent, which is next to Sagres Point.

14.) Walk the cliffs around Lagos

Photographs And Postcards… From Portugal (22)

Perched on the southern coast of Portugal, Lagos is a small town in the Algarve region .

Make sure to visit Lagos Castle, visit the close by cliffs of Ponta de Piedade and the ornate, Igreja de Santo António.

Only a short drive from Sagres and other beautiful places, it’s a great place to stop for a long afternoon and a bite to eat.

Read more: Best places in the Algarve to visit

15.) Visit the best beaches

14 Best Places In Portugal To Visit This Year (18)

There’s no denying that Portugal has some of the best beaches in Western Europe ; so, whatever you do, be sure to explore its coastline.

Before you arrive, book this speedboat tour to the iconic Benagil Sea Caves. The tour takes around 90 minutes and just can’t be missed. It’s incredible.

If you’re looking to ride the waves on a board, head across to areas like; Sagres, Ericeira or more on the west Atlantic Coast.

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Alternatively, if you’re looking for a little dip, relaxation and beautiful sandy bays, head over to places like Benagil in the Algarve .

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The whole region is famed for its glorious beaches.

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The Best & Worst Times to Visit Portugal in 2024 (Our Take)

Written by: Author Andrew Helling | Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

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The Best & Worst Times to Visit Portugal in 2024 (Our Take)

What's the best time to visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal is between June and October. While August through October is the busiest season, cheaper June and laid-back July offer a quieter experience for uninterrupted sightseeing, beach trips, and chances to explore colorful coastal cities like Lisbon and Porto on their medieval cobblestone streets.

Wondering about the best time to visit Portugal? This scenic, historic country has it all: golden beaches, flavorful cuisine punctuated with fresh seafood and port wine, incredible architecture, and buzzing coastal towns that draw you into a colorful, Mediterranean world.

Portugal is an enchanting place. Decorative azulejos tiles adorn pastel buildings in the coastal capital of Lisbon, port wine flows freely in the cellars and cafes lining the medieval streets of Porto, and impressive castles dating back to the 8th century (like Castelo dos Mouros) still stand on lush hilltops.

You’ll find Portugal a place you want to stay and explore in full with so much to see, experience, and discover around every corner of the narrow and artistic Portuguese cobblestone streets. But it really matters what season you choose for your visit.

The best time to visit Portugal is when the weather is warm and dry for sightseeing, festivals are in full swing, and the beaches are welcoming with sand gently warmed by the sun. But there are lesser-known times that can be great for a visit beyond the peak season.

You might be interested in saving some money by going during the cheapest time to visit or looking to avoid crowds during the low season. Maybe you’re looking for the months to avoid when you plan your travel dates.

In any case, we’ve got you covered with the best months to visit Portugal for the best weather, most affordable prices, and smallest crowds. We’ll also show you the worst time to visit so you don’t get caught by surprise during the chilly rainy season.

Overall Best Time to Visit Portugal

For a piece on the best time to visit Portugal, a bridge in a picturesque photo in old town Porto

Rafael Bischof/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Portugal is between June and early October. Warm, dry weather is perfect for sightseeing, beaches, and cultural festivals that happen during the summer and fall months.

You can take your pick of travel dates between June and October, depending on the experience you want. The busiest months of the year — August through October — are crowded, but offer mild, pleasant weather. June and July are less crowded, warm, and ideal for sightseeing and beaches.

The weather in Portugal during these months is as fine as the porto wine you’ll sip here. With balmy daily highs in the 70s and low 80s, it’s never sweltering in Portugal, but you’ll find the best conditions for spending time on the beach during these months:

June: 72-79°F; 1-5 rainy days
July: 75-83°F; 1-2 rainy days
August: 75-83°F; 1-3 rainy days
September: 73-79°F; 2-6 rainy days
October: 63-73°F; 5-11 rainy days

Sightseeing is a joy when the skies are blue and sunny and rain is limited. This dry season period starts to break apart come October, when more rainfall enters the country (especially in the north, like Porto), so coming early in the month alleviates this problem.

Porto is particularly mild year-round, with high temperatures ranging from 56°F to 75°F. Lisbon and its nearby beaches are warmer with average highs between 58°F and 83°F. In general, the south is warmer and drier than the northern regions — keep this in mind if you want the warmest weather.

It’s a great time to visit the stately São Jorge Castle in Lisbon and wander the streets lined with historic pastel-toned buildings. You can visit the National Azulejo Museum to see an array of the famous blue and white hand-painted tiles that adorn Portuguese architecture.

Hit the beaches less than an hour from Lisbon, some located in pristine parks. Praia da Figueirinha is a great option in Arrábida Natural Park, while Carcavelos Beach is busier with surf schools, beachfront eateries, and the imposing São Julião da Barra fort .

Check out 120+ sand sculptures, like pyramids and religious icons, at the FIESA International Sand Sculpture Festival in the Algarve (runs from March to August). Rent a buggy to see more of the 5-hectare display, visit the “fish spa,” and enjoy the snack bar.

Thinking it’ll cost you dearly to visit Portugal during the best months of the year? That’s not the case. We tallied up data from Google Hotels and Skyscanner to find the average nightly rate on Portuguese hotels and the lowest airfare by month:

June: $112/night; flights from $493
July: $122/night; flights from $598
August: $127/night; flights from $533
September: $122/night; flights from $455
October: $99/night; flights from $422

While hotel and airfare costs are higher during the peak summer months of July and August, things get cheaper in the fall. That means you’ll be able to score great deals by visiting during June, September, or October.

And don’t forget about Portugal’s vibrant festival season, which really kicks off in May and lasts through September. There are tons of cultural festivals and events you can check out to get to know this country and its traditions better:

Santo Antonio Festival (Jun) in Lisbon is a month-long affair celebrated with concerts, plays, city-wide exhibits and performances, decorated bairros (neighborhoods), and a parade on Avenida da Liberdade on June 12
Arraial Lisboa Pride (Jun) brings a rainbow of celebrations and parades to Lisbon with parties, concerts, competitions, and vendor booths in the capital
Rock in Rio Lisboa (Jun) is a music festival originating in Brazil with a June event in Lisbon with world-renowned live music acts and entertainment, like Doja Cat and Ed Sheeran, leading the lineup
Festa de São João (Jun) is a Midsummer festival in Porto that honors St. John the Baptist with religious and non-religious events, including dancing, food, bonfires, a parade, and competitions
Festa dos Tabuleiros (Jul) in Tomar happens once every 4 years, honoring fertility traditions with the famous Tabuleiros Parade of young women in white garb carrying platters stacked high with bread and flowers in offerings to the Holy Spirit
Festa do Colete Encarnado (Jul) or “Red Vest Party” in Vila Franca de Xira is similar to the running of the bulls with locals wearing campinos (red waistcoats) and participating in races, tributes, dances, feasts, and a huge parade with concerts
Feira de São Mateus (Aug/Sept) in Viseu is a 39-day event with a fair and amusement rides, concerts, food, competitions, pageants, marathons, and bike races
Peregrinação de Fátima (Oct 13) is the second of two annual major pilgrimages to Fatima as locals travel to the site of Virgin Mary apparitions reported and witnessed by 3 child shepherds in 1917

With fairs, parades, and concerts rocking Portugal from June to October and affordable prices at the start and end of the summer and fall seasons, these dry, warm months are by far the best time to visit the country for a little bit of everything.

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Cheapest Time to Visit Portugal

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November through February is the cheapest time to visit Portugal. During these months, winter weather and rain dampen tourism demands and drive down prices on hotels and flights.

When one travel period is much cheaper than others, it’s natural to wonder what the catch is. In this case, it’s the cooler, wetter weather that Portugal experiences in winter and a lack of the colorful festivals that bring coastal cities to life during the warmer months.

With highs from the upper 40s to the low 60s, it’s never freezing cold in Portugal, but this is the coolest period of the year. Beaches are less inviting with cloudy skies, sightseeing might require you to don a jacket or sweatshirt, and there’s more rain to contend with.

November: 53-67°F; 8-11 rainy days
December: 47-59°F; 7-11 rainy days
January: 47-61°F; 6-11 rainy days
February: 50-62°F; 5-9 rainy days

With all the cons of the winter season out of the way, let’s talk about the silver lining. These months aren’t the least busy, but they’re much less crowded than the peak months from June to October. It’s also the most affordable time to visit, saving you money on both your hotel and airfare.

Here’s what we found when going over Google Hotels pricing data and Skyscanner round trip airfare costs from the U.S. by month:

November: $88/night; flights from $356
December: $83/night; flights from $345
January: $88/night; flights from $352
February: $83/night; flights from $353

December is the cheapest month to visit overall, with a 7-day trip at an average hotel plus round trip flight costing as low as $926. February is next (as low as $934), then January ($968) and November ($972).

It’s the prime time of year for deals, but you can also take advantage of the season to venture down south where it’s still warm.

Lisbon is one of our favorite Portuguese cities to visit in winter because it’s much warmer and sunnier here than cities further north this time of year. It’s a great time to enjoy smaller crowds at places like the 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery , Belém Tower, and the ever-popular Pasteis de Belem for a Portuguese custard tart.

Catch a fado (traditional Portuguese music) show in the Chiado district, admire the holiday lights, visit the Wonderland Lisboa market, do a port tasting at Taylor’s Port Wine Shop, or just sightsee around the beautifully tiled and pastel-colored buildings.

Conditions are perfect to head to the Castelo dos Mouros, the hilltop Moorish castle of Sintra and UNESCO World Heritage site , You’ll also be able to check out some festivals, like:

Feira Nacional do Cavalo Golegã (Nov) is a horse fair and equestrian show in Golegã filled with equine competitions, races, rallies, and carriage rides with wine and snack booths
São Martinho Festival (Nov 11) is a bonfire ( magusto ) harvest party in towns around the country with its own motto: “ É dia de São Martinho. Comem-se castanhas; prova-se o vinho!” meaning it’s St. Martin’s Day, we’ll eat chestnuts and taste wine”
Carnival (Feb) parades with elaborate costumes, loud music, and abundant food and drinks happen across the country, but the biggest parades and celebrations are in Lisbon and the Algarve

Least Busy Time to Visit Portugal

Travelview/Shutterstock

The least busy time to visit Portugal is between March and May. These relatively dry months are less crowded with mild weather across the country, especially down south around Lisbon.

Even if your main priority is avoiding peak season crowds, you won’t have to put up with heavy rain or cold weather if you come during March, April, or May. These springtime months see highs from the mid 50s to upper 60s and low 70s with less rain than winter:

March: 55-65°F; 4-8 rainy days
April: 58-68°F; 5-9 rainy days
May: 65-73°F; 3-8 rainy days

Head to the mountainous Alvao Natural Park near Porto on the Olo River with forests lining the banks. The Fisgal waterfall creates a rainbow of mist in the park’s Bazal Zone. Journey another 3 hours to reach Serra da Estrela Natural Park, the biggest in Portugal with the country’s highest peak, summit lakes, majestic valleys and cliffs, and woodland paths to hike.

There’s a souvenir market with grilled meats and cheeses to enjoy. As far into the season as May, there will still be snow on the peaks of the mountains, creating a beautiful contrast between the burgeoning spring and summer and the cooler air at higher elevations.

Go on a port wine tour in Vila Nova de Gaia, where historic port wine cellars and tasting rooms (like Ferreira Cellars ) cluster around the city center. There are excellent beaches here, like the sea glass-studded Praia de Miramar and Praia da Madalena with its bustling boardwalk.

You can check out charming Afurada, an ancient fishing village, in Vila Nova de Gaia to enjoy succulent grilled fish that’s still cooked on grills lining the streets and see old clothes washing tanks still in use by the district’s elders.

Take the scenic bike path from Afurada that leads you all the way to Espinho, past chapels built on the beach and the birder’s paradise of Douro Estuary Natural Reserve . It’s about an hour-long bike ride and so gorgeous along the way.

While March through May isn’t the cheapest time to stay in Portugal, hotel rooms cost around $100/night on average. But higher airfare makes it more expensive, so take a look at data from Google Hotels and Skyscanner to see what you might pay this time of year:

March: $93/night; flights from $410
April: $109/night; flights from $589
May: $109/night; flights from $429

If you want to pay less for airfare and hotels, you’ll need to look at travel dates between cooler (and wetter) November and February instead. Attend some of the events that happen during the spring months, like:

Semana Santa (Mar/Apr) is Holy Week in Portugal, celebrated with religious processions around the country featuring flowers, crosses, and twinkling lights; Braga and the Algarve have the biggest events
Festa das Cruzes (May) in Barcelos is a festival of crosses with a pilgrimage to Alto Minho with traditional dancing, fireworks, music, flower carpets, and the Fair of the Crosses in the town’s public square
Peregrinação de Fátima (May 13) means it’s time for devout Portuguese to take p ilgrimages to the sanctuary at Fatima, the site where apparitions of the Virgin Mary appeared to young shepherds in 1917

For the less-crowded conditions and wonderfully mild temperatures this time of year, Portugal can be great to visit between March and May.

Worst Time to Visit Portugal

Sodel Vladyslav/Shutterstock

August (the most expensive month) and November (the most rainy days) are the worst months to visit Portugal. Both have pros and cons, but overall, there are better times to visit.

During August and November, you’ll encounter three circumstances that can make a trip to Portugal less enjoyable: High prices (August), big crowds (August), and heavy rainfall (November).

While November doesn’t see the increases in hotel costs and airfare like August, it’s a wet month with cool temperatures that makes it less enjoyable for a visit. August is one of the peak months, and while it has great weather, it’s crowded and expensive.

With just a couple of rainy days and warm highs in the 70s and 80s, August looks like the perfect month to visit. But these dreamy conditions draw tons of tourists, making it much more crowded than the early summer months of June and July.

With the increase in tourist demand comes higher prices on hotels and flights. And even though November doesn’t have these issues (it’s one of the cheapest months to visit), the cool weather and rain explains why prices dip so low this month.

These factors aside, either month can be potentially good for a visit — if you know what to expect.

In August, visit Porto and its medieval Ribeira (riverside) district, where a maze of Portuguese cobblestone streets create art along the ground with historic buildings, cafes, and homes lining either side. The dry weather makes perfect sightseeing conditions, but it will be crowded.

It’s a good time to stop by the ornate São Francisco Church in Porto with golden carvings in the Baroque style — it’s truly an opulent display, right alongside the lavish Palácio de Bolsa (Bolsa Palace) with an octagonal glass dome and painted ceilings.

November is better for cities and areas further south in Portugal, where the weather is warmer and a little drier. Highs will be closer to the mid-60s and you might see around 8 rainy days instead of 11+.

Check out Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, and Faro, the capital of the Algarve region. You’ll find lots of Moorish, medieval, and neoclassical architecture here along with an Old Town networked with cobblestone streets.

As far as festivals and events go, both months are light on activities. You can head to Viseu for the Feira de São Mateus in late August. Check out the Feira Nacional do Cavalo Golegã horse show in Golegã or the São Martinho Festival (harvest festival) on November 11 in towns across the country.

Portugal by Month: What to Expect

While Portugal’s weather is relatively mild year-round, fluctuating visitor numbers, prices, and festivals can make it more important to carefully choose which months you’ll travel during. Here’s what to expect during each month of the year.

As one of the cheapest months to visit Portugal, January experiences highs in the upper 40s to low 60s (warmer further south) with 6-11 rainy days. Flight prices and hotels are cheap this month — around $88/night on average with round trip airfare starting at $352.

February

February is another of the cheapest months to visit Portugal, bringing cool highs between 50°F and 62°F with 5-9 days of rain. It’s better than January for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Flights start around $353, while hotels cost about $83/night. Events include Carnival parades with dancing and colorful floats in Lisbon and the Algarve.

As one of the least busy months to visit Portugal, March is moderate in most ways with highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s, 4-8 rainy days, and fair pricing on hotels and airfare ($93/night average with flights as low as $410). Events include Holy Week processions in Braga, the Algarve, and other cities across Portugal.

Another of the least busy months to visit Portugal, April is warming up with highs in the upper 50s to upper 60s and 5-9 rainy days (pretty dry). Hotels cost about $109/night on average, while round trip flights run as low as $589 — expensive this month. When Easter falls in April, you can check out Holy Week processions in cities across the nation this month.

May is one of the least busy months to visit Portugal with balmy highs between 65°F and 73°F, 3-8 rainy days, and better prices on flights than April (as low as $429 round trip). Hotels should be around $109/night on average and events include the Festa das Cruzes in Barcelos and the pilgrimage to Fatima on May 13.

Possibly the best month to visit Portugal, June is less crowded, affordable, and has idyllic weather in the low-to-mid 70s. With 1-5 rainy days, it’s perfect for beaches, sightseeing, and exploring coastal cities. You’ll pay about $112/night for your hotel and $493+ to fly round trip. Events include Lisbon’s Santo Antonio Festival, Rock in Rio Lisboa, and Arraial Pride, with Festa de São João in Porto.

Another of the best months for a Portugal trip, July is as warm as it gets with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s. This is ideal for visiting beaches around Lisbon, exploring the inland parks for mountain hikes, and attending events like the fertility Festa dos Tabuleiros and Festa do Colete Encarnado. Hotels are about $122/night with flights starting at $598.

August is dreamy, but can be one of the worst months because it’s expensive and crowded. Warm highs from 75-83°F and 1-3 rainy days makes it lovely, but crowds can ruin sightseeing, beach days, and city exploration. You’ll pay $127/night for a hotel and upwards of $533 to fly. Events include the Feira de São Mateus in Viseu, which runs through early September.

September’s crowds continue the August trend as temperatures cool to 73-79°F and rainfall picks up slightly with 2-6 rainy days. The influx of visitors means prices stay elevated around $122/night for hotels, but flights start at $455 — cheaper than August.

As the final great month to visit Portugal of the year, October is better during the first half with highs between 63°F and 73°F. Rainfall increases to about 5-11 days of the month, but hotels are cheap at just $99/night on average. Flights are affordable, starting at $422, and events include the pilgrimages to the Fatima holy site on October 13.

November is one of the worst months to visit Portugal with cooler highs between 53-67°F and up to 11 rainy days. The silver lining is lower prices on hotels ($88/night) and flights (from $356), while events include the Feira Nacional do Cavalo Golegã and São Martinho Festival on November 11.

As the cheapest month to visit Portugal, December brings holiday cheer and decorations to the cities and cool temperatures between 47-59°F with 7-11 rainy days. It’s the rainy season, so flights and hotels are affordable this month at $83/night for accommodations and flights from $345.

Frequently Asked Questions

City Center at Rossio Square pictured during the best time to visit Portugal

Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Still wondering how you can pinpoint the best time to visit Portugal with your own travel goals in mind? Look over some of the most common questions other travelers had below to learn more.

What is the best month to go to Portugal?

June is the best month to go to Portugal because it offers dry, summery weather in the 70s without the high prices of the rest of the peak season. June is a less-crowded month that promises beautifully lush landscapes and chances to enjoy the beaches, cities, and mountains of Portugal.

What is the rainy season in Portugal?

October through March is the rainy season in Portugal, but November and December are the wettest months of the year here. Typically, the areas further north see more rainfall than southern Portugal, so head to cities like Lisbon and Faro to avoid the rain.

What time of year is Portugal cheapest?

Portugal is cheapest between November and February, when cool weather and rain keeps many tourists at bay. Prices on hotels and flights drop with the decreased demand. You can expect to pay anywhere from $83-$88/night on average this month and $345+ for a round trip flight.

Where is the best weather in Portugal?

The best weather in Portugal is down south, in cities like Lisbon (the capital) and the Algarve region (like Faro). Portugal experiences mild weather year-round, but southern regions are warmer and drier than areas further north for a longer beach season and better sightseeing conditions.

How many days in Portugal is enough?

Plan on spending 5-10 days in Portugal. Five days in Portugal is enough if you’ll be visiting 1-2 cities on your trip, while you’ll need 10 or more days to fully experience 3+ cities across the country, visit national parks, and do some exploring in smaller towns.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal overall is between June and October. June and July are quiet and warm, while August through October tends to see bigger crowds. Come between November and February if you’re looking for the cheapest hotels and flights.

The months of March through May offer the smallest crowds of the year for better sightseeing and a more laid-back trip, but you should try to avoid August (high prices and crowds) and November (lots of rain and cool weather) if your dates are flexible.

Portugal has so much to offer a traveler like yourself — historic architecture from castles to cathedrals, diverse landscapes from mountains to beaches, great food, and a vibrant culture that’s apparent in the festivals and pilgrimages that happen throughout the year.

You have a lot to look forward to if you’re planning a Portugal trip. Just make sure you take the best time to visit into account, and you’ll have a blast!

When to Go: Is Portugal Safe to Visit in 2024? | Safety Tips What to Do: 15 Best Places to Visit in Portugal (Our Picks for 2024) What It Costs: What a Trip to Portugal Costs in 2024 | Average Prices

8 reasons Portugal is the perfect place to visit

I spent six weeks in Portugal last summer as the U.K. government announced its former travel corridor policy . I didn't stay that long because I couldn't travel anywhere else. I stayed because I loved it. It was a perfect destination, for both a vacation and remote working.

While Americans aren't able to travel to Portugal just yet, hope is on the horizon as the European Union is expected to welcome vaccinated American tourists this summer . Here are 8 reasons Portugal could be a great trip to plan this summer.

1. Endless sunshine

It rained once in the six weeks I was in Portugal last summer and I was able to swim on plenty of beautiful beaches. July is the warmest month of the year in Portugal. Its capital Lisbon, as a densely populated urban metropolis, can lock in the heat amongst all that concrete. It can be a little uncomfortable in the middle of summer there.

If you would prefer somewhere warm but a little more bearable, the average maximum temperatures in the southern Algarve region remain just below 90 degrees throughout summer. Anytime between May and October is very pleasant and you can expect plenty of sunshine.

It's warm enough to swim in the water, but not so hot your energy will drain away.

Related: Tips for Exploring Portugal's Algarve Region With Kids

2. Everything is affordable

A six-week stay in somewhere like Switzerland or Sweden, while beautiful, would cost a fortune. Portugal is the most affordable place I have experienced in Western Europe and noticeably cheaper than Spain next door.

Even after multiple visits to Portugal I still cannot get over the fact you can buy a 750ml bottle of (excellent) rosé from local supermarkets for under $2.50 a bottle.

You couldn't even get a glass of wine for that price in the U.S.

Dining out, cocktails, accommodation and transport were all very affordable for the entire time I was there last summer. I found prices to sit midway between Western Europe and Eastern Europe prices and certainly much, much lower than the U.S.

3. Beautiful beaches

Portugal's beaches are just as good as those I've visited in Spain, Greece and Turkey. I found the most beautiful to be on the southern coast in the Algarve region from Cabanas right through to Lagos. Many are within easy walking distance from local towns, or for some more adventure, you can take a ferry or small water taxi to a more remote island.

These islands have plenty of space to stretch out and socially distance and usually have a nice seafood restaurant and perhaps a corner store for snacks and cold drinks. Just make sure you plan your return — you don't want to miss the last ferry back after too many Sagres beers on the beach!

4. Excellent mask usage and social distancing

This was the thing I was most nervous about when visiting Portugal last summer. Would people do the right thing? Would I feel safe? Would I know what to do?

I needn't have worried. My experience was that everyone wore masks without exception in places like supermarkets, public transport (including taxis and rideshare) and while not seated in cafes, bars and restaurants. I always carried my mask with me so I could do the same. With warm weather each day, I spent plenty of time outdoors, even choosing to work outdoors on a balcony or terrace, from time to time under the shade of a sun umbrella.

With few tourists around it was easy to have plenty of personal space and it felt much safer than London where I had come from.

Related: World's longest pedestrian suspension bridge opens in Portugal

5. Fantastic seafood

On previous visits to Lisbon and Porto, I had enjoyed Portuguese food but found there was not an abundance of strong flavors, and some dishes were a little — dare I say — bland. But spending more time there last summer I think I've discovered the secret: fresh seafood. The shape of the country means you are never a huge distance from the coast in Portugal, and especially if you staying close to the ocean, there's an abundance of fresh seafood to be found.

I was in awe of the enormous fresh selection at local supermarkets — there were plenty of options I didn't even recognize. When you arrive at local restaurants, you can expect very fresh razor clams, sea bass and bream, jumbo prawns and sardines, to name a few. These are bursting with flavor and don't need additives like herbs and spices like you might add to your food at home.

If you do want something with a real kick, try the famous Portuguese grilled chicken. You may be asked just how spicy you want it, or it may come with a bottle of sauce for you to add yourself. This definitely packs a punch!

6. Friendly, welcoming locals

After the safety of mask-wearing and social distancing, my next-biggest concern was would locals actually want someone visiting? Would I receive any hostility when they realized where I was from? Again, I needn't have worried.

Every single local I interacted with during my six-week stay was very welcoming and glad to have my custom.

The country is heavily reliant on tourism each summer, especially in the Algarve region. The tourism industry has been decimated by the pandemic and they were glad to see every tourist they could. I only speak a few words of Portuguese and had no problem conversing with locals (with our masks on, of course!). Some locals would ask where I had come from and would smile and welcome me to their country.

7. Pastéis de Nata

Those little custard tarts are so delicious they deserve their own number on this list. Sold everywhere, they are a perfect morning or afternoon tea, especially enjoyed with a cup of coffee. I'm not embarrassed to admit that I ate at least one almost every day I was in Portugal last summer.

Expect to pay less than $1.50 per tart at local cafes, and they'll happily box you up some if you would rather enjoy them at home. If you're early enough, they may still be warm from the oven.

8. Beautiful towns and architecture

The two main cities of Lisbon and Porto have beautiful architecture, with brightly painted houses. You'll find plenty of those gorgeous intricately painted tiles everywhere, too. If you're looking to avoid built-up areas this summer, there are plenty of gorgeous little towns and sleepy villages where you'll have no difficulty social distancing.

Whether you're looking for whitewashed buildings on the coast, terracotta roofs in the green rolling hills or getting lost in winding cobbled streets spotting huge wisteria plants at each turn, there's something for every taste and style.

Related: 13 of the most beautiful villages in Portugal

Bottom line

I thoroughly enjoyed my extended stay in Portugal last summer and look forward to returning again this summer. It was a perfect place for a vacation because it had everything I was looking for — amazing warm, sunny weather, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, a laid-back lifestyle and it was easy to get around.

What surprised me was how well-suited it was for working remotely as well. If you have no rush to return home after some time off and could use a change of scenery from your bedroom, you can expect stable internet and affordable everything, giving you plenty of time for an after-work swim and sunset beverage before enjoying some delicious seafood and maybe yet another custard tart before bed.

Home > What to See and Do > Top 10 Must-See Attractions

Top 10 Attractions and 50 Things to Do in Lisbon

The most extraordinary sights and the most memorable experiences.

1. Jerónimos Monastery

This World Heritage monument is a marvel of Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) architecture. It was built in 1502, and features magnificent stonework inspired by the sea and the East, particularly in the cloisters. Paid for with the profits from the spice trade, it’s the resting place of explorer Vasco da Gama, whose tomb is found at the entrance of the church.

See the Jerónimos Monastery Visitor's Guide .

2. Belém Tower

Lisbon’s most iconic monument rises from the river, where it served as a beacon to the many explorers who departed from this site in the 15th and 16th centuries. Also protected as World Heritage , it looks like a small castle out of a fairy tale, and is a symbol of the Age of Discovery .

See the Belém Tower Visitor's Guide .

3. St. George's Castle

Lisbon’s highest hill has been crowned by fortifications for literally thousands of years. The first ones were built by the Visigoths in the 5th century, then the Moors expanded them in the 9th century, and Portugal’s first king remodelled them in the 12th century. The medieval castle became a royal residence until the 1500s, and what stands today is the restored version of the Moorish and medieval construction. It houses a small archaeological museum, but is mostly visited for the breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

See the St. George's Castle Visitor's Guide .

4. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Businessman and philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian was one of the world’s wealthiest men in the mid-20th century, and created a foundation in Lisbon to promote the arts and education around the globe. He put together one of the world’s greatest private art collections , and a museum was built next to the foundation’s headquarters. He only acquired masterpieces, so everything on display is outstanding, from paintings by old masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens, to Egyptian antiquities and unique pieces of Lalique jewelry.

See the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Visitor's Guide .

Exhibitions related to modern art, architecture and technology are presented in an iconic building of curved lines that descends into the river. Even if you don’t visit the art inside, you may walk around, and even on top of, this waterfront landmark, as it serves as a viewpoint, looking out to 25 de Abril Bridge.

See the MAAT Visitor's Guide .

6. Coaches Museum

Lisbon’s most popular museum became even more so when it moved to a bigger building across the street from its original home. Its collection of magnificent carriages (unique in the world) is now displayed in a modern building designed by Pritzker Prize architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha, and includes vehicles dating back to the 16th century, ridden by Portuguese and other European royals.

See the Coaches Museum Visitor's Guide .

7. Parque das Nações

Eastern Lisbon was transformed into a futuristic ocean-themed neighborhood when it was chosen as the site of 1998’s World Fair. It’s now home to office and apartment buildings, but also to one of the city’s greatest attractions, the Oceanarium, which puts all of the world’s ocean habitats under one roof. From there, visitors walk along the pleasant waterfront promenade towards Vasco da Gama Bridge (Europe’s longest) and the Vasco da Gama Tower (the city’s tallest building).

See the Parque das Nações Visitor's Guide .

8. Tile Museum

Ceramic tile art dates back to ancient Egypt and is found all over the Mediterranean, but nowhere else in the world did it evolve as much or as imaginatively as in Portugal. Here, tiles became more than just geometric figures decorating walls, they also depicted historical and cultural scenes to cover palaces, street signs and shops. There is only one place on the planet where you can follow the history and evolution of this art form, and that’s Lisbon’s Tile Museum. Set in a magnificent 16th-century convent , this is the city’s most beautiful museum . It’s a unique gallery with a collection of tilework that ranges from Moorish-influenced pieces from Seville to modern examples by contemporary artists. In the splendid church dripping with gold is also a series of Dutch panels, from a time when Europe started imitating Chinese ceramics.

See the Tile Museum Visitor's Guide .

9. Ancient Art Museum

It has paintings by masters like Bosch and Dürer, but the main reason to head to this museum is for a lesson in how the East and the West influenced each other , thanks to the Portuguese “Age of Discovery.” Highlights include Japanese screens illustrating Japan’s first encounter with Europeans as the Portuguese arrived on their ships, a monstrance made with gems brought back by Vasco da Gama, and the 15th-century masterpiece “Panels of St. Vincent” depicting Prince Henry the Navigator and other personalities of the time.

See the Ancient Art Museum Visitor's Guide .

10. MAC/CCB

Located next to Jerónimos Monastery, this museum (formerly named Berardo Collection Museum) presents a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art . Most of it belongs to Portuguese businessman Joe Berardo, who collected works by major European and American artists like Picasso, Magritte, Paula Rego, Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

See the MAC/CCB Visitor's Guide .

40 OTHER MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

Discoveries Monument

This massive monument is shaped like a ship with 33 people aboard, led by Prince Henry the Navigator. The other colossal sculptures are of other personalities related to the Portuguese Age of Discovery , such as explorers, poet Luís de Camões, and painter Nuno Gonçalves. Inside are temporary exhibitions and an elevator that takes visitors to the terrace at the top, which offers a breathtaking view of the neighboring monuments. Outside, on the ground, is a vast compass with a map of the world tracing the routes of Portugal's heroes of the sea.

See the Discoveries Monument Visitor's Guide .

Rua Augusta Arch

The triumphal arch that once welcomed those arriving in Lisbon by boat, now offers visitors one of the best views of the city from the top . From the feet of its gigantic sculptures is a bird’s-eye perspective of Lisbon’s grandest square opening to the river, the cathedral, and downtown’s cobbled streets.

See the Rua Augusta Arch Visitor's Guide .

Portas do Sol Viewpoint

The most stunning view of old Lisbon can be admired and photographed from this terrace by the castle. This medieval part of the city looks more like a Mediterranean village or a Greek island than a capital city, with white church towers, domes and colorful houses tumbling down the hill towards the waterfront. In the surroundings are several cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating.

See the Portas do Sol Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, Lisbon

São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint

This terrace at the top of a hill was landscaped in the 1800s and is one of Lisbon’s most romantic spots . Locals and tourists take photos of the postcard view , and gaze across to the castle as they enjoy drinks from a kiosk café. It’s found next to the terminal of one of the city’s iconic funiculars , the Elevador da Glória.

See the São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Santa Justa Elevator

A monumental wrought-iron elevator , designed in Gothic Revival style by one of Gustave Eiffel’s disciples, was inaugurated in 1902 to facilitate the climb of one of Lisbon’s hills. It connects Baixa (downtown) to Chiado and Bairro Alto at the top of the hill, but is now mostly a tourist attraction, as it also offers a panoramic view .

See the Santa Justa Elevator Visitor's Guide .

Santa Luzia Viewpoint

A pergola frames a perfect view of Alfama’s domes and rooftops descending the hill towards the river at this romantic terrace next to a small church. It’s incredibly picturesque from its two levels -- the landscaped upper level with lush bougainvillea is adorned with tile panels, while the lower level has a reflecting pool.

See the Santa Luzia Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Ribeira das Naus

This promenade connects the Baixa and Cais do Sodré districts, and turns into something of an “urban beach” in the summer. It’s the favorite sunbathing spot in the city center for locals and tourists (who lie on the steps that descend to the water or on the lawn behind them), and the terrace of its kiosk-café is one of the most popular spots for drinks on the waterfront. It’s also one of the best places to catch the sunset in the autumn and winter months, when the sun disappears on the horizon on this more southern location of the city.

See the Ribeira das Naus Visitor's Guide .

An abandoned factory complex dating back to 1846 became one of Lisbon’s trendiest places to be , when it started housing offices, shops, cafés and restaurants in 2008. It’s one of the top destinations for dinner throughout the week and for brunch on weekends, when it also hosts outdoor markets selling everything from locally-grown vegetables to crafts, fashion, and accessories. All of the interiors have kept their industrial architecture and vintage pieces in their décors, and the exterior is a true street art gallery .

See the Lx Factory Visitor's Guide .

MuDe - Design & Fashion Museum

Lisbon has one of Europe’s best design and fashion collections , and it’s displayed in the former headquarters of a bank, in the city’s main pedestrian street. There are creations by many of the world’s leading designers from the mid-1800s to the present, like Charles & Ray Eames, Le Corbusier, Philippe Starck, Chanel, Christian Dior, Versace, and Yves Saint Laurent. Most of the pieces were amassed by a local businessman, but there have also been donations, including an outfit by Tommy Hilfiger himself.

See the MuDe Visitor's Guide .

Royal Palace of Ajuda

Portugal’s last royal palace was built at the top of a hill in 1795. It was to be one of Europe’s largest palaces, but was abandoned and the project left unfinished during the French invasion of Portugal and later when the country became a republic. However, the neoclassical building is grand enough, and the royal family left behind the crown jewels and a collection of decorative arts from the 18th and 19th centuries, which are displayed in the magnificent rooms . Across the street is the royal botanical garden , laid out in 1768. Split into two levels, it has exotic trees and plants, 18th-century sculptures and fountains, and a beautiful view of 25 de Abril Bridge.

See the Ajuda Palace Visitor's Guide .

São Vicente de Fora Monastery

The world's largest collection of baroque tile panels , including several illustrating La Fontaine's fables, can be seen inside this monastery from 1582. Those panels were added in the 1700s, and line the cloisters and much of the interior. It’s possible to climb up to the roof, for a view over Alfama.

See the São Vicente de Fora Monastery Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon’s fortified cathedral is the city’s second-oldest monument, after the castle. It’s a robust building from 1147, and most of it survived the 1755 earthquake. Its cloisters reveal archaeological remains of the city’s past 3000 years , while the treasury presents a collection of priceless sacred art .

See the Lisbon Cathedral Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de São Roque

Built in the 1500s, this was one of the world’s first Jesuit churches , with a very plain façade but with a number of extraordinarily gilded chapels inside. One of them is a unique masterpiece of European art , and said to be “ the world’s most expensive chapel .” Built in Rome in 1742, using only the most precious gems (ivory, lapis lazuli, gold, silver, marble, gilt bronze, agate, porphyry...), the chapel was shipped to Lisbon to be assembled in this church, where it can now be seen together with other side-chapels equally rich in ornamentation.

See the Igreja de São Roque Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santa Catarina

The magnificent baroque and rococo interior of this church is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful sights , but it remains a little-known treasure. It dates from 1727, and most of it actually survived the 1755 earthquake, unlike the majority of churches and everything else in the city. It’s therefore a rare example of Lisbon’s wealth up to the 18th century, with a monumental organ that’s a masterpiece of gilded woodwork and a stucco ceiling that’s considered one of the most outstanding of its kind in Europe.

See the Igreja de Santa Catarina Visitor's Guide .

Graça Viewpoint

A pine-shaded terrace at the top of one of Lisbon’s tallest hills is a meeting place for locals, who love to admire their city as much as tourists do. No one can resist taking a photo of the view of the castle and the rooftops below it , and stopping for a drink served from a kiosk standing in the shadow of a baroque church.

See the Graça viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Santa Catarina Viewpoint

Lisbon’s favorite sunset spot is one of its most central viewpoints. It’s a terrace located close to many of the city’s most popular bars and restaurants, so it’s where many start their night out. There’s a kiosk serving drinks to be enjoyed on the amphitheater-like steps, where bohemian locals and tourists get together in a chill-out atmosphere. They’re overlooked by a sculpture of Adamastor, a mythical sea monster imagined by Portugal’s great 16th-century poet Luís de Camões.

See the Santa Catarina Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Senhora do Monte Viewpoint

It rivals the Santa Catarina viewpoint as the favorite sunset spot , but here there are no cafés and the view is more breathtaking. It’s a quieter viewpoint, but has become quite popular, as it offers a panorama of almost the entire city . It’s faced by a small 18th-century chapel and an image of the Virgin which gave it its name (“Lady of the Mount”).

See the Senhora do Monte Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Bica Funicular

It perfectly frames a view of the river, so Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo would always be one of Lisbon’s most photographed streets , but what makes it such a picturesque and irresistible place (and arguably the city’s most beautiful street) is the presence of a charming funicular . It has been going up and down the hilly street since 1892, connecting the Bairro Alto district to the waterfront. Its journey takes just 5 minutes, and it carries up to 23 passengers, but it’s now mostly used as a backdrop for selfies.

See the Bica Funicular Guide .

Ribeira Market

Lisbon’s main market since 1892 became the city’s top food destination in 2014, when it added a food hall managed by Time Out Lisboa magazine. It’s a lively place from morning to night, with stalls offering some of the most creative dishes by some of the city’s top chefs. They’re enjoyed at canteen-style communal tables inside, or outside, facing Dom Luis I Square.

See the Ribeira Market Visitor's Guide .

Docas de Santo Amaro

The best close-up views of the landmark 25 de Abril Bridge are from the warehouses-turned-restaurants below it. They face a marina, and are the starting point of a promenade that leads to the Discoveries Monument and the many other attractions of Belém. This is a popular destination at lunch and dinner time, as well as for afternoon drinks. It’s also the departure point of sightseeing cruises. The bridge is often compared to the Golden Gate in San Francisco, but it was actually modelled after the Bay Bridge in the same city. One of the pillars (across the road from here) has a glassed observation deck at the top, and houses an exhibition explaining the mechanisms that make a suspension bridge work.

See the Docas de Santo Amaro Visitor's Guide .

A gigantic image of Christ standing on a tall pedestal was inaugurated across the river in 1959, as a way for the episcopate to thank God for having spared Lisbon from World War II. An elevator takes visitors up to the terrace by the feet of the statue, from where there's a panoramic view of practically the entire city . From the landscaped surroundings there’s a close-up view of 25 de Abril Bridge , which stands right below.

See the Cristo Rei Visitor's Guide .

Carmo Convent

The roof of this 14th-century church, which was Lisbon’s greatest medieval building, collapsed in the earthquake of 1755, but its Gothic arches still stand. It was never restored, to serve as a reminder of the disaster, but it remains one of the city’s most impressive monuments . The former sacristy is a small archaeological museum with an eclectic collection of treasures, from Portugal and elsewhere, including a Visigothic pillar, a Roman tomb, and eerie South American mummies. Behind the building are the Terraços do Carmo, terraces now occupied by an open-air café and bar, offering a view of the castle and of the Santa Justa Elevator , which can also be accessed from here.

See the Carmo Convent Visitor's Guide .

National Pantheon

A domed church that took 300 years to complete is now the pantheon holding the tombs of Portugal’s most illustrious personalities (from 15th-century explorers, to Presidents, to legendary fado singer Amália Rodrigues ). The marble interior is a fine example of baroque architecture , but it’s mostly visited for the terrace surrounding the dome , which overlooks Alfama and the river.

See the National Pantheon Visitor's Guide .

Basílica da Estrela

Inspired by St. Peter’s in Rome and Mafra Palace outside Lisbon, this royal basilica was built according to the wishes of the queen in 1790. The imposing dome stands out in the city’s skyline, and it’s possible to get a close-up view of it from the terrace , which overlooks the city. The marble interior includes a remarkable nativity scene , created by Portugal’s leading baroque sculptor. Across the street is one of Lisbon’s most delightful parks .

See the Basílica da Estrela Visitor's Guide .

Fronteira Palace

It’s way off the beaten path, outside the city center, but it’s worth making the effort to see this palace from 1670, as it’s a fine example of aristocratic architecture. It was influenced by the Renaissance, and has one of the world’s richest collections of decorative tiles , which can be admired inside or in the magnificent gardens .

See the Fronteira Palace Visitor's Guide .

Edward VII Park

Lisbon’s sloping “central park” offers a view of downtown Lisbon, with symmetrical box hedging pointing to the river. On one side is a beautifully-tiled pavilion which hosts special events, and on the other are small lakes and a greenhouse filled with exotic species of plants from tropical climates.

See the Edward VII Park Visitor's Guide .

Jardim do Príncipe Real

The center of Lisbon’s trendiest district is a romantic garden laid out in 1863. It’s shaded by different species of trees, including a gigantic parasol-like cedar. It’s surrounded by mansions, including the exotic Ribeiro da Cunha Palace , which is now a monumental shopping gallery. There are statues of 19th-century poets and a memorial to the victims of homophobia, as well as kiosk cafés serving refreshments throughout the day.

See the Jardim do Príncipe Real Visitor's Guide .

Vasco da Gama Bridge

Inaugurated in 1998 as Europe’s longest , this bridge remains one of the largest in the world. It seems to almost vanish into the distance, and it’s possible to walk under it, following the waterfront promenade of the Parque das Nações district. There’s a park below it, where locals jog, cycle, walk their dogs, and play soccer, as very few tourists pose for selfies on the boardwalk with the bridge as a backdrop. By the promenade is a statue of Catherine of Braganza , the Portuguese princess who became the queen of England when she married King Charles II, who named the borough of Queens in New York in her honor.

See the Vasco da Gama Bridge Visitor's Guide .

Pink Street

The color of the pavement gave it its nickname, but this pedestrian street is officially Rua Nova do Carvalho on the map. It’s quite a small street, but is the epicenter of Lisbon’s nightlife , and the New York Times even placed it on a list of “12 favorite streets in Europe.” It hosts a street party throughout the week, mixing locals and tourists, who sit or stand outside the different bars.

See the Pink Street Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Museum

Divided into five different branches, this museum tells the story of Lisbon and explains the different aspects of its culture. The main branch is an 18th-century palace that the king built for a nun (who happened to be his mistress), and features a formal garden with live peacocks and ceramic animals. That’s Palácio Pimenta , and inside it documents Lisbon’s history, from prehistoric times to the 20th century, through paintings, archaeological finds, and a scale model of the city before its destruction by the 1755 earthquake. Another branch is the striking Casa dos Bicos , a 16th-century building covered in over 1000 diamond-shaped stones that was one of the few survivors of the earthquake. Its ground floor is an archaeological site with traces of Lisbon life from the past two millennia, while upstairs is an exhibition devoted to the life and work of author José Saramago, featuring his Nobel Prize and multilingual editions of his books. Another famous Portuguese personality, Saint Anthony, is celebrated in another branch, next to the church with his name, built on the site where he was born (right in front of the cathedral). A fourth branch is found in the city’s grandest square -- in the western turret of Praça do Comércio, and presents temporary exhibitions. But if you visit only one branch of the museum make it the Roman Theater , which is an archaeological site showing the remains of what was once a sizable theater during Lisbon’s Roman occupation. Pieces unearthed during the excavations are shown in a building next door.

See the Lisbon Museum Visitor's Guide .

Orient Museum

As the European power with the longest presence in Asia (Macau was only handed over to China in 1999), Portugal has quite a story to tell about how its culture influenced and was influenced by the East. This museum does just that, with a permanent collection dedicated to the Portuguese presence in Asia . It includes Indo-Portuguese furniture, Japanese screens, paintings, porcelain, textiles and religious artifacts. The restored 1940s warehouse it’s housed in also presents temporary exhibitions covering a variety of themes related to the different Asian cultures.

See the Orient Museum Visitor's Guide .

Medeiros e Almeida Museum

A 19th-century mansion houses one of Lisbon’s most outstanding art collections . Somehow, it remains one of the city’s top secrets, often overlooked by travel guides. It’s the former home of a wealthy businessman, who displayed his treasures in 25 rooms, including a Rembrandt portrait and other paintings by major artists like Rubens and Tiepolo. It also presents one of the world’s largest collections of clocks, some of the first Chinese porcelain imported by Europe, a silver tea set that once belonged to Napoleon, and a marble and bronze fountain that originally stood in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles, among hundreds of other surprising pieces.

See the Medeiros e Almeida Visitor's Guide .

Maritime Museum

Located in the western wing of Jerónimos Monastery, this museum provides a flashback to the Age of Discovery and Portugal’s nautical history. Ancient globes, models of ships, maps and astrolabes explain the pioneering role of the Portuguese in the exploration of the oceans and in aviation , displaying the plane the made the first crossing of the South Atlantic by aviators Gago Coutinho and Sacadura Cabral in 1922. Other treasures include artifacts found in shipwrecks, the yacht and barges of the Portuguese royal family, and a wooden figure of Archangel Raphael that accompanied Vasco da Gama on his voyage to India.

See the Maritime Museum Visitor's Guide .

Tropical Botanical Garden

If you have time for just one garden in Lisbon, make it the Tropical Botanical Garden next to the Jerónimos Monastery. Created in 1906 to show the exotic plants and trees from the Portuguese colonies , it’s now a beautiful and peaceful place to escape the crowds of tourists in the neighborhood. Busts of Africans and Asians are dotted around, and there’s a Macanese arch leading to an Oriental Garden, but there are also plants from other lands that were not colonized by the Portuguese. Giant palm trees welcome visitors, as do the peacocks, ducks, geese, swans, chickens, and other fowl that waddle around or swim on the pond.

See the Tropical Botanical Garden Visitor's Guide .

Águas Livres Aqueduct

Lisbon created one of the world’s most impressive water systems in the early 1700s, thanks to a monumental aqueduct. It’s recognized as one of mankind’s most remarkable hydraulic and engineering constructions , and its 109 arches and different reservoirs escaped the destruction of the devastating 1755 earthquake. They make up the award-winning Water Museum , and it’s possible to walk over the aqueduct’s 14 largest stone arches (the world’s tallest when they were built), rising 64 meters (210 feet) from the ground. Smaller arches, decorated with baroque tile panels illustrating human consumption of water over history, can be seen leading to the Mãe d’Água reservoir nearby, whose rooftop offers a view of the arches and of the surrounding neighborhood. Inside, it often hosts temporary art exhibitions. Another reservoir can be visited on weekends below Jardim doPríncipe Real, while the main branch of the museum is located a short walk from behind Santa Apolónia train station, in the former steam pumping station. It preserves the iron and steel machinery in the Victorian and Neoclassical styles, considered treasures of Europe’s historical and industrial heritage.

See the Aqueduct and Water Museum Visitor's Guide .

Amoreiras 360º

A group of glass postmodern towers altered Lisbon’s skyline and were therefore controversial when they were built in 1985, but their shopping mall soon became the city’s favorite shopping mecca. Newer and bigger malls are now more popular, but that of Amoreiras is still a destination, as it provides access to an observation deck at the top of one of the towers. There’s a 360-degree view of almost the entire city , from the Parque das Nações district in the east to Belém in the west. The mall below has dozens of stores and an excellent food court.

See the Amoreiras 360º Visitor's Guide .

National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado

Art fans will want to head to this converted convent which houses the biggest collection of contemporary Portuguese art . It’s shown in thematic and temporary exhibitions, but there are always works by the leading national artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, like Almada Negreiros, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, and Paula Rego. A drink or light meal at the café on the sculpture-filled terrace is a great way to end a visit.

See the National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado Visitor's Guide .

Military Museum

Lisbon’s oldest museum recalls major battles, wars and the military history of Portugal in sumptuous rooms with beautifully-painted ceilings . The room named after Vasco da Gama shows how the country conquered and defended its colonies, while another room is entirely dedicated to WWI. Elsewhere it displays one of the world’s largest collections of artillery , swords used by kings, and replicas of 16th-century armor, among a variety of other pieces. The cannon-filled courtyard features tile panels illustrating some of the most historic battles that guaranteed that Portugal remained an independent Iberian kingdom.

See the Military Museum Visitor's Guide .

There are many places in the city to enjoy the abundant sunshine and the mild temperatures, but luckily there are also several beaches nearby. That makes Lisbon one of Europe’s most blessed cities, and you can have your feet in the ocean or be on your surfboard in just minutes from the center of town. There’s a long stretch of sand to the south, offering everything from lively seaside bars to surfing waves , to secluded spots and nude beaches , and then there’s the coast to the west, easier to reach, and therefore more popular with tourists. Wilder beaches of stunning natural beauty are found to the north, by Europe’s westernmost point . Most can be reached by public transportation, and will make you want to prolong your stay in the city.

See the Lisbon Beaches Guide .

A day trip to Sintra should be included in any visit to Lisbon. This fantasyland was Europe’s first center of romantic architecture, which has made it a World Heritage Site . It’s a magical place with several fairytale palaces and castles , but the must-see is the extraordinary Pena Palace , which looks like something that not even Disney could imagine.

See the Sintra Tourism Guide .

Top Places to Stay

Best Waterfront Hotels: Altis Belém Hotel , MYRIAD by SANA Hotels Best Views: Memmo Alfama , Hotel do Chiado , Solar dos Mouros Best Pools: Olissippo Lapa Palace , Palácio do Governador , EPIC SANA Marquês Best Hotels by the Castle: Solar do Castelo , Santiago de Alfama Boutique Hotel Best Central Hotels: Pousada de Lisboa , Bairro Alto Hotel , Altis Avenida , The Ivens Best Central Apartments: Residentas Aurea , Chiado Camões Apartments , Flora Chiado Apartments Best Beach Hotels: Farol Hotel , The Albatroz Hotel

Complete Lisbon Guide

Insider's guide with the latest travel tips, information and advice from local experts:

Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

Hotels on Avenida da Liberdade

Hotels in Bairro Alto

Hotels in Baixa

Hotels in Chiado

Hotels in Príncipe Real

Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

Bairro Alto

Cais do Sodré

Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

Príncipe Real

What to See & Do

Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

Family Attractions

On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Ajuda Palace

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

Transportation

Travel Cards

Tram 15 to Belém

Train to Belém

Glória Funicular

Bus 101 to Cristo Rei

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Airport Guide

Airport Transportation

Rossio Station

Santa Apolónia Station

Oriente Station

Cais do Sodré Station

Sete Rios Bus Station

Cacilhas Bus Station

Portugal Travel Guides

Visit Porto: 15 places not to be missed

Victor | Essencial Portugal

Book your holidays in 3 clicks all over Portugal using the button below. I have created for you a page that gathers the best rated and most recommended English speaking tours and activities throughout Portugal as well as the luxury hotels or villas classified by the most sought after and appreciated criteria.

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, has been one of the ten most popular cities in Europe for some years now. There are several reasons for this: the warm climate with temperatures that rarely drop below +15 from February to November, the historic centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the seafront and beaches that can be reached by metro, the low prices and the very good local wine. Visiting Porto can be done on foot in just a few days but to help you, below is a list of 15 interesting places in and around the city: palaces, monasteries, wine plantations and medieval towns that are worth a visit if you decide to go on holiday in Porto.

Visit Porto with an English speaking guide

Some will prefer to visit Porto on their own and go where the wind takes them but others will not know where to go during their 3 or 4 day stay, in which case it may be interesting to be accompanied by an english speaking guide who knows the city of Porto like the back of his hand. For these people, you will find below a selection of the best guided tours of Porto. All these tours I have selected have the best marks, are conducted by English speaking guides and can be cancelled 24 hours before the start of the tour if you finally wish to change the program. You can therefore book with confidence.

Visit Porto with the Porto Card

Just like the Lisboa Card, the Porto Card allows you to benefit from free transport in the city of Porto but also discounts on various places to visit in the city. It may or may not be interesting depending on the program you have planned but it deserves to be taken into consideration.

The Porto Card can be valid from 1 to 4 days depending on the length of your stay in the city: take advantage of transport and 150 discounts including free access to 6 museums and a free visit to a winery in the city.

Visit Porto in 10 must-see places

Ponte luís i.

The old city of Porto is located on the hills on the right bank of the Douro River. It is connected to the port centre (Vila Nova di Gaia) on the other bank of the river by several beautiful bridges. The most famous of them is the elegant metal bridge “Ponte Luis I”, built by Eiffel’s pupil Theophilus Serig. The upper level of the bridge offers the best view of Porto, the river and the old boats moored in the marinas. The bridge itself has long been one of the symbols of the city and its image can be found everywhere in Portugal’s second largest city.

Ribeira, the most beautiful area of Porto’s old town

Ribeira, with its colourful houses, narrow cobbled streets, craft shops, endless staircases and harbour bars, is the most picturesque district of Porto. The facades of many houses are tiled with azulejos that shine in the sun. The houses on the hill are so narrow, small and hanging from each other that they look like birds’ nests. Ribeira’s seawall is the widest and most beautiful in the city, with pleasure boats and old boats coming and going. In addition to the cheap cafes and restaurants in Ribeira, there are many excellent ceramic and leather goods shops.

Sao Bento station (Estação de São Bento)

Sao Bento was opened in 1916. The walls of the main hall of the station are decorated with 20 thousand azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles painted in blue and white), representing the main historical events in Portugal and the landscape of Porto. All the azulejos were hand-painted by the artist Georges Wheels, which took more than three years to complete.

Lello bookshop in Porto

Lello is the oldest bookshop in Portugal, which for many years has been one of the 5 most beautiful bookshops in the world. The facade and the interior are neo-gothic style, with an abundance of small details, complex sculptures and a magnificent decor. The curved red staircase, carved walls, shelves and tinted glass ceiling inspired Joan Rowling and became the prototype for the Hogwarts library in Harry Potter. In addition to the striking interior, the store pleasantly surprises with a selection of books in English, Portuguese and French. Admission to the library costs 4 euros. But if you buy a book, the entrance fee will be deducted from its price.

Miradouros in Porto

Like Lisbon, Porto is a city on the hills and there are many observation platforms from which you can enjoy a magnificent view of the city during the day (during the day, because the old city is poorly lit at night):

A site near Se Cathedral: The cathedral stands on top of the highest hill in the city. In addition to the main scenic area, there is a small one near the Chafariz do Pelicano fountain.
The site at the top of the 18th century Torre de los Clérigos tower, in the heart of the old town. This 75-metre high tower was considered the highest in Portugal for more than a century. Entrance is paying and costs 4 euros.
The site near the monastery of Serra do Pilar, from where you can see at the same time all the old town, the river and the bridge of King Luis.

Ocean coast, beaches, lighthouses and best fish restaurants

Porto is located on the banks of the Douro River, a few kilometres from the mouth where it flows into the ocean. The beaches and ocean lighthouses in Matosinhos can be reached in 30-50 minutes by bus or metro from anywhere in the city. There are many beaches: wild and equipped, sandy and pebbly. The largest and most popular beach is the sandy beach of Matosinhos. Near this beach in Porto you will find the Heróis de França street, which is home to dozens of the best fish restaurants in the city. I also recommend you to visit the old lighthouse of Farol de Felgueira, whose foot sometimes breaks huge waves.

Historic tramway from the city centre to the coast

Porto has far fewer old trams than Lisbon but some of them are still moving. The old yellow trams from 1872, decorated with wooden panels, leather seats and brass parts inside, follow three lines: 1, 18 and 22. The most popular of these is tram 1, which runs from the Infante station along the Doro coast to the ocean coast. Lines 18 and 22 are much shorter and run along the most beautiful streets in the city centre. Normal passes on these three lines do not work, a ticket must be bought from the driver and in cash.

Palácio da Bolsa in Porto

This Palace is a masterpiece of neoclassical style, built in 1891. Dozens of artists have worked on its interior. Each room is made in an original style and they are all designed to show the wealth and power of Porto, the city of rich merchants and winemakers. The Arab room dazzles with its gold sequins and arabesques, the walls of the courtyard are decorated with the coat of arms with which Porto traded, and the gold room and the assembly hall are decorated with frescoes, sculptures and gold leaf. The price of the ticket is 8 euros full price, 4.5 euros discount for students and pensioners.

Church of San Francisco (Igreja Monumento de São Francisco)

The church of San Francisco in the Gothic style with Baroque elements is beautiful both inside and out. The interior is decorated with wooden panels, the walls and dome are covered with frescoes and huge altars are decorated with golden carvings. According to the legend, the gilding of the altars of San Francisco has 370 kg of gold leaf. There are also catacombs, where citizens were buried in the 18th and 19th centuries and which are now open to the public, as well as a museum of ancient painting and furniture. The ticket price for the church, the catacombs and the museum is 4 euros.

Fundação de Serralves Museum of Modern Art

Serralves is one of the largest and most visited museums in Portugal and was built in 1999. On an area of 5000 m², there is an impressive collection of Portuguese and European contemporary art and several temporary exhibitions. The museum building, built by the architect Alvar Vieira, is an interesting example of modern architecture. The museum is surrounded by a large garden decorated with sculptures by Graham and Serra. The garden often hosts exhibitions of artists, sculptors and designers. Entrance fee: 10 euros full price, 5 euros discount for students and pensioners.

Visit the region of Porto in 5 must-see places

Aveiro is located 74 km south of Porto, nicknamed the “Portuguese Venice” because of the dozens of canals where the painted boats of “Moliceiro” sail. The fishermen’s houses overlooking the canals are painted in all the colours of the rainbow, palm trees grow on the banks, and in the town centre there is the Monastery of Jesus (Convento de Jesus), the Chapel of Senhor das Barrocas and the Church of Mercy (Igreja da Misericórdia), whose interior is decorated with beautiful wood carvings.

Costa Nova do Prado

Costa Nova est une station balnéaire située à 84 km de Porto et à 11 km d’Aveiro, connue pour ses excellentes plages, ses dunes de sable, ses plages de surf et ses lodges de pêche. Toutes les maisons sont peintes en bandes horizontales et verticales, et les habitants affirment que la couleur de chaque maison est unique. Vous trouverez également à Costa Nova des boutiques d’excellents plats en céramique à des prix très accessibles.

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It can be reached by train, car and even by one of the boats that leave Porto in the morning and return in the evening. The valley is covered with hills where vines, fig and lemon trees grow. It is here that the wine farms and cellars with the best wine in the world can be found.

Guimaraes is a beautiful medieval town located 50 km northwest of Porto. In the historical centre of the town there are cheap restaurants, medieval houses and old fortresses. The Ducal Palace houses an excellent collection of 15th century tapestries and furniture. The best view of the city opens from the cable car cabin, which leads from the city to the Peña hill.

Braga is located 50 kilometres from Porto and is considered the religious capital of Portugal. The city has an 11th century cathedral, medieval houses, palaces, a museum with a large collection of old household objects, as well as a museum of the artist Henrique Medina. 6 kilometres from the city is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Portugal, the Bom Jesus do Monte, with an amazing staircase that leads to the top of the hill.

In the elaboration of your expatriation project in Portugal, in addition to being attentive to…

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Essencial Portugal

Prepare your vacation in the north of Portugal in a few clicks: essential places, guided tours, transfers, hotels, villas, ticket purchase and information. A concentrate of everything you need to know to visit Porto and the north.

Guided tours of northern Portugal

Porto Card - Discounts

Porto Airport Transfers

Luxury Villas Portugal North

Charming hotel My Story Rossio Lisbon bedroom

Hotels in the North

Visiting Northern Portugal

Guide: visit Porto in 3 days
Public transport in Porto
11 things to do in Porto
15 must-see places in Porto
Visiter Guimarães
Visit Braga
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Visit the Douro River

Due to the complexity of this process, I have found only one serious english speaking service provider to assist you with the registration of your vehicle in Portugal. This is a law firm based near Lisbon that will take care of the registration application + the ISV exemption application to the customs . The price of this firm is 2000€ per vehicle and does not include the costs of the technical inspection, the registration and the registration fee.

Please only fill in this form if you are ok with this price to avoid unnecessary exchanges with this provider. If you wish to do this yourself, you will find a lot of information below on the dedicated page.

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The form below will be forwarded to an insurance broker specialising in the Portuguese market who will offer you the best prices for death insurance in Portugal.

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The form below will be sent to an English speaking company based in Lisbon and specialised in company buy-outs in Portugal. A company takeover is a meticulous operation for which it is essential to be accompanied in the research, selection, visits, financial analysis, negotiations or even the signature to make sure that everything is done correctly and in accordance with the legislation in force in Portugal.

Experts in business acquisition in Portugal will contact you directly to discuss your project, your needs and the best way to accompany you to make it happen. Valuable help from English-speaking experts to make your plans for setting up in Portugal a reality.

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The form below will be forwarded to an English-speaking company based in Lisbon that specialises in property searches throughout Portugal. These property hunters can assist you in your search for a property, but also in the search for building land, agricultural land or even the search for a business to buy.

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They will contact you directly to find out more about your project, your needs and accompany you through the process of obtaining your NIF in Portugal. They will make an appointment at Finanças and accompany you to obtain your Portuguese tax number. A precious help to make your expatriation project in Portugal a reality.

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The form below will be forwarded to a firm of English-speaking accountants based in Lisbon who specialise in business creation and accounting throughout Portugal.

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The Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal—One of the Oldest and Most Colorful Towns in Europe

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As interest in visiting Porto only grows stronger, visitors are finding even more things to do in the city. What was once seen for many as a short trip is becoming a longer break, with exploration outside of the city centre and into neighboring areas. Porto may be Portugal’s second largest city —after Lisbon —but it did give the country its name from the Roman Portus Cale. Centuries later, the city became famous for port, its “divine nectar of the Gods,” tastings of which are highly recommended in any of the port lodges lining the riverside in Vila Nova de Gaia. From there, look across the Douro at Porto’s colorful jumble of medieval houses, soaring church towers, and glossy blue-and-white tiled façades. Here, our selection of the best things to do in Porto can help you weave your way through the city, dipping into its sights, sounds, tastes, and smells to better get under its skin. To be sure, Porto will get under yours too.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Spot the tiles

Azulejos are the hand-painted ceramic tiles that dress so many of Porto’s buildings. They were introduced into Portugal by the Moors when they occupied much of the Iberian Peninsula , but became widespread after King Manuel I brought the know-how back to the city after a trip to Seville in 1503. Mainly blue and white, many of the tiles in Porto tell the lives of saints or portray Portuguese history.

To see the azulejos in all their glory, start at the early 20th-century railway station of São Bento , in the city center, where 20,000 hand-painted tiles by Jorge Colaço show scenes of daily life and significant moments in the country’s history. Just a short walk away is the Church of Santo Ildefonso , where 11,000 tiles—also created by Jorge Colaço—were added to the exterior of this Baroque church in 1932. Try and catch it when framed by a cloudless blue sky for the greatest impact.

Standing near the busy shopping street of Santa Catarina, Capela das Almas is probably Porto’s most photographed church. Its exterior is completely covered with tiles depicting the lives of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Catherine of Alexandria to dramatic effect. Porto Cathedral ’s dark Gothic cloisters are also worth visiting for its tiles, as is the Igreja do Carmo . Its beautiful blue and white tiles were added to the exterior of the 18th-century Baroque church in 1910.

Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge

Porto’s well-photographed bridge is what most think of when they picture the city, so why not head there to look across the city and the Douro River? You can walk from one side of the river to the other using the bridge via either the lower level (which is also accessed by cars) or, for those without a fear of heights, the upper level (which also takes trams across). Both levels of Dom Luís I Bridge have impeccable panoramic views , but it’s hard to beat the feeling of seeing the city from the upper level.

Visit some of the city’s best restaurants

Lisbon’s restaurants might be well-celebrated, but Porto has an emerging food scene that’s cool and creative, offering unique opportunities to taste local delicacies at its most exciting restaurants in Porto . A cosy and joyful restaurant in the center of town, Gruta offers great wine and seafood, but the latter is particularly noteworthy thanks to the all-women chef team headed up by Rafaela Louzada . Order the octopus carpaccio and sea rice to taste how seafood shines in Portuguese cuisine. Meanwhile, at Euskalduna Studio , cookbooks line the dimly lit shelves and give a hint of what to expect: an inventive tasting menu inspired by world cooking techniques. Request a table rather than a counter seat; it’ll be away from the exciting buzz of the kitchen, but will like your group is the only one in the room.

An all-women chef team headed up by Rafaela Louzada creates fantastic seafood dishes at Gruta.

Relax in a local café

Just like in Italy , coffee is an integral part of Portuguese culture; visits to a café are a part of everyday life. Locals often start the day with a bica (espresso) and a pastel de nata (custard tart), and you will find cafés spilling out onto the pavements all over the city. One of the most emblematic is Café A Brasileira , with its iron and glass covering and ornate interiors. When it initially opened in 1903, it was the haunt of actors and writers, and is now part of the Pestana Hotel of the same name . On beautiful Aliados Avenue (currently under construction due to a new Metro line), Café Guarany opened in 1933. Since then, it has been known as the stomping grounds of musicians. Meanwhile, Café Majestic opened in 1921 and was considered a venue for intellectuals and writers. Its Art Nouveau interiors and façade are worthy of a pause on any itinerary. At Época Porto , clichéd brunch dishes are swapped for creamy Turkish eggs and rabanadas, a Portuguese-style French toast you’ll need at least two of. And in the trendy neighborhood of Bonfim, A Certain Café opened in July 2022, and the light and airy space serves everyone from laptop workers to wine sippers; events and parties are a regular occurrence, so be sure to check the schedule.

Try a francesinha

If you’ve never heard of this sandwich, you might be a little baffled at first. The francesinha is two thick slices of white bread are filled with assorted meats, including steak, ham, and sausage; then covered in melted cheese and a fried egg; and finally finished with a tomato and beer sauce. Yes, it's incredibly filling, and yes, it's worth every bite—particularly after one too many vinho verdes the night before. It’s a local delicacy and there's much debate about the Porto café that serves the best one: Café Santiago is often named as a favorite, while Anthony Bourdain loved O Afonso . Still, I have it on good (local) authority that Brasão Cervejaria and Cufra are well-loved.

Drink with locals

The Portuguese love to drink and socialize, and whether you’re looking for gritty open spaces or boutiquey wine bars, you’ll find a fun time. Taprooms selling their own-brand beer illustrated with graphic branding might be ten a penny, but you can’t market atmosphere, which MUSA has in spades thanks to its privileged location overlooking the river and good-time crowds. Come here for arguably one of the best sunset views in the city. If you’re hoping for something more intimate, Tia Tia was born from a love of natural wines and feels like a good friend’s living room. Dedicate an evening to working your way through the creative food menu, accompanied by glasses of local douro vinhos, pet nats, and unusual orange wines.

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Originally built in 1850 and recently renovated, Mercado do Bolhão is home to stalls, shops, and restaurants, all managed by local traders.

Wander through local markets

Mercado do Bolhão is a must-see during your trip. This recently-renovated traditional market, originally built in 1850, is home to stalls, shops, and restaurants, all managed by local traders, some of whom have been operating for decades and selling everything from fresh produce and cheese to flowers. If you have the time, go in on a morning and chat with stall owners, who are happy to share local tips. Porto Belo Market is small, but just like London’s Portobello Market , it’s a place you’ll remember well. On Saturday afternoons, visit here for traditional Portuguese toys, antiques, jewelry, homemade food, and more—all in a perfect little Porto square.

Get your fill of art and culture

Art, old and new, is easily accessible in Porto. Soares dos Reis National Museum is one of Portugal’s most important museums, housed in the country’s oldest palace. It re-opened in April after several years of closure and refurbishment, opening its doors once again to an excellent collection of Portuguese art with several highlights from the 19th-century sculptor whose name the museum bears, Antonio Soares dos Reis. Don’t miss his sculpture, O Desterrado (The Exile) : C arved from Carrera marble, it is evidence of why he is sometimes called Portugal’s Michelangelo. Those who prefer contemporary art should visit the Serralves , a museum designed by Pritzker-prize-winning architect and Porto local Álvaro Siza Vieira, set in a beautiful park. To buy art, visit the galleries of Miguel Bombarda Street in the city’s arts district, like Galeria Presenca – Contemporary Art Gallery , which has regular exhibitions, and Ó! Galeria , which brims with illustrations and prints.

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Vila do Conde, Porto

Take a trip to the beach

Porto might not feel like a beach destination, but it’s entirely possible to spend a day by the coast during your trip, whether you have a car or not. If you’re using public transport, Homem do Leme Beach is accessible via bus and offers small stretches of white sand and clear waters for swimming. Praia de Moreiró Norte is further—a 30-minute drive from the city center—but is a favorite of locals thanks to its masses of space. Be warned: The water can be chilly!

Visit the Douro Valley

Porto is the gateway to the Douro Valley , where vineyards cascade in terraces down to the bottle-green river. You can visit the region in a tiny train that chugs along the river banks, stopping at the little country stations, where pink bougainvillea falls over the blue-and-white tiled walls. Or drive out, with a planned itinerary and preferably a driver to allow you to wine taste. Or take a boat which zig zags between a couple of different Quinta’s allowing you to taste wines and ports and embrace the river cruise life.

Explore the Port Lodges

Unique to Porto, these lodges that line the Douro River are full of history and heritage. Just take a bit of time to decide what you are looking for in a visit. There is a huge choice from well-known British brands like Sandeman to Portuguese brands like Ferreira . Some have museums in the cellars, others offer premium tastings so you can really get an idea of their top ports. One of the best is Taylor’s which was founded in 1692 and is still going strong as an independent wine house. A tour includes samples of chip-dry and late-bottled vintage ports, a can of chip-dry and tonic, the new ready-to-drink port and tonic, and an audio guide.

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Dome and ceiling of Church of Saint Francis in Porto, Portugal

Feed your soul at the city’s churches

Once you’ve admired the blue and white exterior of several churches in Porto, take some time to visit a couple more. Most notable is São Francisco Church , classified as a National Monument in 1910 and no longer used for worship. The richly gilded interiors are the best example of Baroque decoration in Porto and include the Tree of Jesse on the north wall in gilded and painted wood. It was carved between 1718 and 1721 by Filipe da Silva and António Gomes. Also worth visiting is the Clérigos Church and Tower . Built by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century, its nearly 250-feet-tall bell tower is a city landmark. It also offers magnificent views—if you have the energy to climb to the top.

Take a walk in the park

Porto has its share of lovely gardens to walk around, not to mention a beach within easy reach at Foz, where the river Douro meets the Atlantic. There is the treetop walk in the Parque de Serralves , which is suspended above the park in the canopy line of the trees. There is also the São Roque Gardens , where ancient gardens surround a recently restored house, now a contemporary art museum, but best of all are the large gardens that surround the Crystal Palace. Filed with peacocks and offering views of the Douro River, it is as good a place as any to finish a few days of exploration.

Hit the shops for souvenirs

Not to be missed is the iconic Portuguese soap brand, Claus Porto , which has its flagship store here in pretty Rua das Flores . Famous for its vibrant, Art Nouveau packaging, its smells are equally delectable with a range that encompasses all tastes. Arranged over two floors, LOT | Labels of Tomorrow is a stunning store housed in an historic building; everything is beautifully presented, and it has an upstairs café and outdoor terrace for early-afternoon drinks. At Cru Creative Hub , a store, coffee roaster, and co-working space, you can expect 50 Portuguese brands offering everything from handmade jewelry to shoes designed and made in the north of Portugal. When you’re finished browsing, keep strolling through Rua de Miguel Bombarda , a street home to galleries, antique shops, cafés, and a buzz of creativity in the air. Chocolate is well represented here by Chocolateria Equador , which brings its beans from São Tomé and Principe and makes them into sardines, with a sprinkling of salt and algae or bars of chocolate with port wine, salted caramel and more. And of course, jewelry, particularly gold , has always been an important part of Porto shopping, and traditional shops display the characteristic gold filigree of Portugal’s north. Typical are pendants in the shape of a heart, known as the Viana heart, in a nod to the nearby city of Viana do Castelo, where the heart originated.

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Destinations

The Untouristed Town Rick Steves Recommends For A Perfect Taste Of Portugal Without Crowds

Bridge leading to Tomar's central square

While it may not be on as many travel bucket lists as its Southern European neighbors Spain and Italy, Portugal is a treasure trove of quintessentially European experiences. Think walkable old city centers with cobbled streets, imposing castles, perpetually great food and wine, and a coastline that makes you want to immediately retire and move there. The prolific travel guru Rick Steves, an authority on the best places to visit in Europe , has flattering things to say about this coastal country on the edge of Europe, which is both travel- and pocket-friendly. While Steves' take on why Portugal's capital Lisbon reminds him of San Francisco is a glowing (rather surprising) ode to both cities, he recommends those looking for a truly authentic taste of Portugal minus the crowds to head to the small town of Tomar.

Situated in central Portugal on the banks of a river, Tomar's history goes back over 900 years. The range of historical influences is perhaps best epitomized by the castle-turned-convent that overlooks the city and was originally a stronghold for the Knights Templar. The town is small enough to explore on foot, picturesque, and just 90 miles from Lisbon. You can make a flying visit and see the sights in a day, but it's easy (and affordable) enough to slow down and soak in this destination that's not completely off the map but definitely off the beaten path.

What to do when visiting Tomar

The heart of Tomar is its cobbled chequerboard main square, Praça da República, which is also the center of the town's historical area. Old architecture, street cafes, shops, artists, and musicians all give it European charm, and you'll also find the statue of D. Gualdim Pais, the Knight Templar who founded the city. Come here during the Festa dos Tabuleiros festival that's celebrated in Tomar every four years, as the town's 20,000 residents host approximately a half-million visitors. However, there is also a colorful roster of cultural festivals that take place in Tomar annually. Two of Portugal's major music events — the Bon Sons festival and the Zêzere Arts festival — are also celebrated near the city.

While there are tuk-tuks to ferry you around town, Tomar's easy walkability makes it great to experience on foot. The picturesque Nabão River runs through the town's center, and there are multiple museums, ornate chapels, and The Center for Contemporary Art — all great places to dive into Portuguese culture and creativity. The Museum of Matches, with its collection of over 60,000 matchboxes, also makes for a quirky itinerary addition.

Finally, Tomar's pièce de résistance — the Convento de Cristo or the Convent of Christ — a stone fortress constructed in the 12th century that overlooks the town. The surrounding woods also have several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the convent while you soak up the countryside.

Tomar is loaded with European history and culture

Tomar may be relatively untouristy, but its deep-rooted association with the Knights Templar makes it a historical European landmark. In fact, in terms of modern history, the town is almost as old as Portugal. The country's history can be traced back to 1140 AD when its first king, Afonso Henriques, ascended the throne. Twenty years later, the Knights Templar settled on lands granted by the king and began construction on the fortress that overlooks Tomar. The monument as it stands today (pictured) was built over a period of 500 years. The Convent of Christ takes cues from Gothic, Renaissance, and Middle Eastern architecture. An internal section called the Charola is actually considered to be a replica of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built on the site of Jesus' crucifixion in Jerusalem.

A related historical site in Tomar is the Acueducto de los Pegões, the aqueduct that supplied the Convent of Christ with water. Dating back to the 16th century, this massive stone structure is supported by multiple layers of arches and has been one of the National Monuments of Portugal for over a century. The Convent of Christ, meanwhile, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tomar's charm encompasses a lot of what makes Portugal such a fascinating destination, but it is by no means the only town of its kind. Rick Steves also recommends another town that's a less-crowded mini Lisbon , which lets you experience Portugal at your own pace.

More From Forbes

Savoring portugal’s paradise island: where to stay and eat in madeira.

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Socalco Nature Calheta

In recent years, Madeira has come alive. Soulful culinary retreats, design-forward boutique hotels and inventive fine- (and fun!) dining restaurants are showcasing the Portuguese island’s creative side. Meanwhile, its year-round temperate climate and lush natural beauty—rugged cliffs plunging into the ocean; mountains blanketed in laurel forests—still make it a timeless destination. And new direct flights from Toronto and Boston (along with the existing nonstop from New York) put the island within closer reach than ever.

Where to Stay

Savoy palace and the reserve.

The Reserve

Since its opening in 2019, the Savoy Palace hotel has dominated the cityscape of the island’s capital, Funchal. It was designed by Madeira native Nina Andrade Silva with a go-for-broke sensibility, including a chandelier made from four miles of metal chain, a mosaic-tile-studded swimming pool and curvaceous golden staircases inspired by the island’s lace tradition. Last year, the owners carved out a 40-room hotel-within-the-hotel on the top floors of the (formerly) 349-room building. They called it the Reserve, and to drive that home, they added a separate velvet-roped entrance, designated a special elevator for Reserve guests, added a private restaurant and lounge, and designated a team of snap-to-it concierges. They also set aside a rooftop swimming pool, 17 floors above everything else in Funchal.

Reid’s Palace

Afternoon tea at Reid's Palace

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This grande dame hotel , now managed by Belmond, is the place that first put Madeira on the map for luxury travelers. It was the dream of 19th-century Scotsman William Reid, who arrived on the island at age 14 in hopes of treating his respiratory ailments and went on to develop tourism businesses. Since it opened, in 1891, the hotel has seen all kinds of history—Winston Churchill painted and worked on his memoirs, and assorted royals were among the guests—and its 123 recently renovated rooms and suites have a retro appeal. The terrace is one of the most beautiful spots for high tea in Europe, and the fine-dining restaurant, William , now helmed by Madeira-born chef José Diogo Costa, holds a Michelin star.

A welcome departure from the island’s classic hotels and big resorts, Socalco is the passion project of one of Madeira’s most commercially successful chefs. (One who now has a Michelin star—but more on that later.) Octávio Freitas called it “my heart, my dream” when it opened four years ago, and it’s still a winsome combination of rural tourism, gastronomy and glammed-up agriculture. It has eight compact standalone houses and ten hotel rooms in the middle of terraced vineyards and organic gardens above the municipality of Calheta. The restaurant serves a daily-changing menu based on products from the garden, local fishermen and nearby farmers, and the activities program includes farm tasks, cooking demonstrations and hands-on sessions baking bread or making jams.

Estalagem da Porta do Sol

Estalagem da Ponta do Sol

This Design Hotels member has long been a popular spot for sunset cocktails, but it’s also an appealing, low-key place to stay away from the development of Funchal. The oldest part of the clifftop Estalagem da Ponta do Sol dates from the late 19th century, when Madeira was a center of sugar production, and it has a bit of a plantation vibe. The 70 minimalist rooms occupy a much newer building and are decorated in contemporary black-and-white. The hotel emphasizes culture, with a collection of large-scale artworks, a concert series, occasional festivals and sunset parties for digital nomads and the local community.

Another hotel away from Funchal that combines the island’s sugar history with contemporary design is the striking Saccharum wellness resort. It occupies onetime sugarcane warehousing and processing facilities, with a collection of machines on display, and it has an abundance of handsome space throughout the public areas. The spa is focused on Ayurveda and includes in-demand amenities like a Himalayan salt rock wall, and the seven restaurants and bars emphasize island and international dishes, often with a view of the mountains or the sea.

Where to Eat

Chef Octávio Freitas at Desarma

Chef Octávio Freitas received his Michelin star for this restaurant atop the Views Baia hotel earlier this year. The name Desarma means “disarm” in Portuguese, but that could also mean to take someone by surprise. Freitas and crew are attempting to do just that with their spin on the island’s gastronomy. The dining room is centered on the large open kitchen—about 1,000 square feet—that’s surrounded by marble dining counters that give eight guests a front-row seat each night. Those diners get a 12-course tasting menu while those in the rest of the restaurant can choose six or nine courses, all (loosely) based on local traditions and made with market ingredients. They hit the militaristic branding pretty hard—“This is the battlefield of the senses where we fight for the triumph of flavor,” announces the website—but the dishes are complex without being overly complicated.

A red carabineiro prawn at Ákua

Longtime Madeira resident Júlio Pereira has dedicated himself to researching the island’s gastronomic history and translating it into simple, elegant restaurant experiences. After his success with Kampo (still a good bet), the chef opened Ákua in Funchal, a love letter to fish and seafood that also draws on his childhood memories growing up in a fishing village on the Portuguese mainland. He calls Ákua a “street restaurant” where the flavors of the sea combine with products from the (is)land. Sardines are paired with eggplant and passion fruit, and braised tuna comes with razor clam rice redolent with garlic and coriander.

Pereira’s latest project is the rejuvenation of Theo’s , a traditional restaurant in the center of Funchal, which he took over earlier this year. The restaurant dates from 1933, when it was a simple teahouse that grew into a gathering place for the island’s businessmen and bourgeoisie. Now Pereira is paying homage to that history with a menu of Madeiran and Portuguese classics, such as tempura green beans with tartar sauce, suckling pig croquettes, octopus rice baked in the oven, and confit duck leg with smoked-sausages rice, orange and cheese from Portugal’s other islands, the Azores.

Chef Filipe Janeiro and project manager Adrianne Zino traveled the world and worked on organic farms before settling in Madeira and opening their restaurant, Gazebo , on the premises of Zino’s parents’ estate in Funchal. With a long table in front of the open kitchen, it feels as much like a private cooking party as it does a restaurant dinner. Given their commitment to sustainability, it’s no surprise that the menu changes frequently, but it generally runs six or nine courses and includes simple but flavorful dishes like line-caught fish with couscous and chives, and Iberian pork with celeriac and hazelnuts.

Part of Les Suites at Cliff Bay, the handsome Avista is more than a standard-issue hotel restaurant. A century-old house is the setting for two distinctive dining experiences, one Mediterranean and the other Asian, both overseen by chef Benoît Sinthon (who holds two Michelin stars at his island flagship, Il Gallo d’Oro ), though most diners choose one of the terraces or outdoor lounges overlooking the ocean. At the main (Mediterranean) Avista, the dishes are largely a la carte and designed to be shared, though there are also bistro-style, innovation-driven and vegetarian tasting menus, all which have earned the restaurant a Bib Gourmand designation from Michelin.

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Is it safe to travel to Portugal and Lisbon right now? Latest travel advice following earthquake

A 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck Lisbon and the surrounding region on Monday morning – here is everything you need to know about travelling to the area

A 5.3 magnitiude earthquake struck Lisbon , Portugal’s capital and one of Europe’s most popular city breaks , at 5.11am on Monday August 26. The tremor was felt in Lisbon, Setúbal and Sines, but emergency services also received reports of it from Porto and areas in Spain . There were three aftershocks (with magnitudes of 1.2, 1.1 and 0.9), but thankfully no injury or damage has been reported.

News of an earthquake can be worrying if you have a trip booked. So, here is everything you need to know about the tremors and whether it’s safe to travel to Portugal right now.

Where was the earthquake in Portugal?

The earthquake’s epicentre was off the coast of Portugal, on the high seas around 58km southwest of Sines and at around 21km deep. The quake hit waters 7.7km southeast of Lisbon, but was felt as far as Porto, parts of Spain and even Morocco .

Is it safe to travel to Lisbon and the surrounding areas?

There have been no reports of injuries or building damage, and the UK Foreign Office has not advised against travelling to Lisbon or Portugal.

The general safety and security advice page reads: ‘Earthquakes are a risk in Portugal. For more information, see the Portuguese Met Office (for mainland Portugal) or the Earthquake Information and Surveillance Centre (for the Azores). The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .’

Have flights been cancelled?

There are no reports of flights being cancelled because of the earthquake, but if you have a trip booked, it’s best to check with your flight provider directly.

What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip?

As the UK Foreign Office has not officially advised against travelling to Portugal, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your trip without any penalties. If you’re keen to reschedule, it would be best to check directly with your travel provider.

What has the reaction been to the earthquake?

Time Out Lisbon compiled a roundup of reactions on social media, which you can check out here , but below are some of our favourites.

Me, while the earth was shaking at 5 a.m. ... #sismo #terramoto #portugal #earthquake pic.twitter.com/lOYGaKzow4 — Darth Voyeur Master (@darth_voyeur_m) August 26, 2024

The bad news is that I need to work while visiting #Lisbon with my family. The good news is the #Lisbon is a great place to work (even after an earthquake)👇 pic.twitter.com/6nHPQOKcMm — Mariano Max Croce (@MCroce_MacroFin) August 26, 2024

Wow! This group of ducks just witnessed the earthquake in Portugal! Amazing! https://t.co/PZFxIiyIHF pic.twitter.com/4ReKFshuFU — Pagliacci (@PagliacciHal900) August 26, 2024

Is Portugal at high risk for earthquakes?

As Portugal’s southern region and the Azores are located near to the boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, the country experiences several minor earthquakes (those that register as 3 or lower on the Richter scale) per year. Typically these earthquakes aren’t felt by people and don’t do any damage.

Earthquakes with magnitudes between 3 and 5 are less common, but do still occur fairly regularly. These earthquakes can cause minor damage. This week’s earthquake was the strongest to hit Portugal since 2009, when the south coast was shaken by a 5.6 magnitude tremor.

When was the last big earthquake in Portugal?

The Great Lisbon Earthquake, estimated to have had a magnitude between 8.5 and 9, struck the region back in 1755 and killed an estimated 50,000 people including 10,000 in Morocco. The quake generated a tsunami which saw waves of 6 metres reach Lisbon and 20 metres at Cádiz in Spain. It’s thought to be the most destructive earthquake to have ever taken place in Europe.

ICYMI: Here is everything you need to know about the Madeira wildfires and what they mean for your trip .

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The FIDE World Senior Chess Championships 2024 will take place in Porto Santo, Portugal, from November 16 (arrival) to November 29 (departure) 2024.

Participants in all categories will share the total amount of 42,500 Euros.

The registration deadline is September 16, 2024 .

The Portuguese Chess Federation constantly updates useful information on how to get to Porto Santo. There are several options for reaching the island: by air or ferry. Find out more about a charter flight from Lisbon to Porto Santo on November 16, returning on November 29.

More information is available on the dedicated webpage: worldsenior.fpx.pt/how-to-get-to-porto-santo/

E-mail: [email protected]

Helpline via WhatsApp: +351937245507 (in English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, and other languages to assist you with information, Visas and travel arrangements)

Regulations and invitation letter (PDF)

USA and England triumph in World Senior Team Championship 2024

Hiked the Camino? Here are 7 pilgrimages to consider for your next challenge

Aug 23, 2024 • 0 min read

Pilgrimage routes like the St Olav Waterway from Finland to Sweden let seekers give thanks, pray or find inner peace and purpose. Sergi Reboredo/VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

A sacred path to spiritual renewal. A journey from head to heart. A test of endurance. A life-changing road to enlightenment.

Since time immemorial, people have gone on pilgrimages to seek forgiveness, give thanks, pray or find inner peace and purpose in times of change and crisis. St Augustine nailed it 1500 years ago when he said: “ solvitur ambulando ” (“it is solved by walking”). After all, what could be more intuitive than putting one foot in front of another, following a clear path to a goal? A pilgrimage is a metaphor for life.

And across the world, pilgrimages are booming.

In 2023, a record-breaking 446,073 pilgrims walked the Camino de Santiago to the shrine of the Apostle St James. But this well-trodden path is merely the first among equals among the world’s great pilgrimage routes.

Religious or not, you will be profoundly touched by the natural beauty, history and unique insights into culture and spirituality on these seven epic pilgrimages – slow-travel adventures taking you from the mist-draped mountains of Japan to the island-speckled south coast of Finland.

1. St Olav Waterway, Sweden and Finland

Best for island hopping and sea views

To slip away from civilization and back to nature, the island-hopping, coast-hugging St Olav Waterway that links Turku in Finland with Eckerö (Åland) in Sweden is the dream. A rousing 10-day romp of 215km (134 miles), this is a pilgrimage trail like few others. For starters, you don’t have to walk it – you can cycle or kayak if you prefer, with ferries joining the gaps.

Whatever your mode of transport, look forward to stupendous views of sea and sky. The trail skips over many rocky isles and skerries as it crosses the Åland Islands , where you have the space to zone out for a spell and be at one with the blues of the Baltic and greens of the pine forest in a place silent enough to hear your own heartbeat. Bring binoculars and you might well spot migratory birds, hares, deer and the odd elk swimming from island to island.

Following the route pilgrims hiked and sailed in the Middle Ages and honoring one of the most famous Scandi saints, this route is less about showstopping highlights and more about embracing every element and sense along the way. Admire the brilliant stars as you wild camp. Take bracingly cold post-sauna dips in the sea. Stop off in tiny, timber-built villages and savor local produce for picnics at wayside farm shops.

After a week or so, you’ll discover lost rhythms and find a deeper connection with the Nordics and their wondrous nature.

Two walkers on a staircase lined by giant trees along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, Wakayama, Honshū, Japan

2. Kumano Kodō, Japan

Best for holy shrines and hot springs

Threading into densely wooded mountains on Japan ’s Kii Peninsula , the Kumano Kodō is a UNESCO-listed network of pilgrimage trails leading to the Kumano Sanzan, or Three Grand Shrines of Kumano. Once a sacred pilgrimage trail for enlightenment-seeking emperors and samurai, these paths have been trodden for more than a millennium.

Today, the landscape they cut through continues to pulse with a special energy. Walkers can expect ethereally lit bamboo groves, fern-flecked forests and terraced rice paddies, waterfalls plunging over cliff faces and holy mountains revered as kami (gods), Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines.

The main path to Kumano is the Nakahechi Route (Imperial Route) – a well-mapped, 68km (42-mile) journey on foot to unite mind, body and spirit through the challenge of the trail and the beauty of nature. It’s a solid four days of walking up into ragged mountains, through mist-veiled forests and along old stone paths polished smooth by pilgrims’ weary-yet-determined feet. Tea houses and simple inns provide rest and refreshment in isolated villages; you’ll want to follow centuries-old ablutions rituals by bathing in the World Heritage hot springs of Yunomine Onsen . At the end, you’ll descend to the ancient shrine of Hongu Taisha , which has the world’s biggest torii gate.

Summers on the Kii can be hot and humid and winters cold, so come in the shoulder seasons for mild days and few crowds – plus spring cherry blossoms or glorious autumn foliage.

A pilgrim with a backpack walks through a masonry arch along the Via Francigena, near Vetralla

3. Via Francigena, Italy

Best for heights and hill towns

In the saintly hall of fame, few shine brighter than St Francis of Assisi, born in his namesake town in Umbria in 1181. Founder of the Franciscan order, this most venerated of Italian saints lived a life of utmost poverty and penance – we’re talking rolling around in thorn bushes to resist temptation, wearing a ragged habit (he only owned one), eating barely nothing and sleeping on stone. St Francis loved nature, saved animals and worked many a medieval miracle, from walking on water to healing the sick and raising the dead. As saints go, few can touch him.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024, the Via Francigena follows in his devout footsteps. If you thought the Camino was challenging, try this 1200km (745-mile) pilgrimage from Canterbury ’s Gothic, UNESCO-listed cathedral (where Thomas Becket was killed in 1170) to Santa Maria di Leuca in Puglia at Italy ’s sun-scorched heel. As you tramp from England to France , Switzerland and Italy, the weather gradually warms and skies get bluer. The landscapes that unfold are cinematically beautiful: vineyards, fast-flowing rivers and forests, olive-cloaked hills and snow-frosted Alps. In between, abbeys, castles, medieval towns and all the wonders of Rome await. On the lonely stretches, a sense of spirituality endures.

Two pilgrims walk the Portuguese Camino de Santiago along the coast in A Guarda

4. The Portuguese Way, Portugal

Best for an alternative route to Santiago

If the idea of Santiago appeals – yet throngs of pilgrims on the busy Camino Francés (French Way) don’t, there are other ways you can set out and earn your official Compostela certificate. While 219,785 blister-footed pilgrims trekked across the Pyrenees through France and Northern Spain to Santiago’s resplendent medieval cathedral in 2023, just 88,717 came via Portugal . Cue the popular-but-still-less-crowded Caminho Português (Portuguese Way), a spiritually uplifting, month-long, 620km (385-mile) stomp from the Portuguese capital of Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela .

Wild Atlantic coastlines, forested hills and national parks stitch together time-lost villages and some of Portugal’s most outstanding cultural sites – from alley-packed, moodily atmospheric Coimbra , medieval capital for more than a century and home to the UNESCO-listed university that’s the country’s oldest; to convent-topped Tomar , a Knights Templar stronghold; and Moorish Santarém. Stop at beaches for boat-fresh shellfish and vibrant sunsets.

The trail is well-signposted and moderately challenging (expect inclines but no real climbs); the weather tends to be agreeable, too, with spring and autumn the ideal times to walk. Tip: if you want to shave off a bit of time, just hike the 265km (165 miles) from Porto . From here, it takes “only” 10 to 12 days to reach Santiago.

5. St Paul Trail, Türkiye

Best for history and slow travel

The apostle St Paul hailed from Tarsus and spread the Christian faith in Asia Minor in the first century. Honoring this foundational early saint and tracing his footsteps as he embarked on his first missionary journey to Anatolia, the St Paul Trail presents a deep dive into a rural side of Türkiye that few visitors get to see. You’ll need to be fit for the 500km (310-mile), at-times-tough hike from the ancient city of Perge (just north of Antalya on the Mediterranean coast) to Yalvaç near Lake Eğirdir. The path is well marked, with handy white-and-red stripes on rocks and trees.

History lovers will be in their element here, as the route picks its way along stone-paved Roman roads, medieval paths and old shepherd trails, taking in aqueducts and ancient theaters; Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman towns and cities; and ruined temples, castles, mosques and churches. But the wild beauty of the Taurus Mountains also touches deep: pine, beech and juniper forests, high pastures, canyons and valleys, glass-clear streams and turquoise falls. In between are hamlets where the pace of life is refreshingly slow, where cheese and yogurt are still made the traditional way, and in which you can momentarily forget which century we live in.

Avoid the blistering heat of summer and opt instead for spring or autumn. April, May, September and October are fine times to hike this month-long trail, along which you’ll be staying in private homes, at simple B&Bs or under canvas.

Pilgrims descend the narrow stairway with majestic views of sunrise from the the top of Adams Peak, Sri Lanka

6. Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka

Best sacred mountain sunrise

Soaring high above the lush green tea plantations and forests of Sri Lanka ’s cloud-wreathed Central Highlands, cone-shaped, 2243m(7360ft)-high Adam’s Peak (Śrī Pāda) is the country’s most sacred mountain. Scrambling up 5200 steps to the top is a rite of passage for pilgrims of different faiths, who flock here from the world over to pray and express gratitude.

The name refers to the giant footprint-shaped marking at the summit, which some say is where Adam first set foot on earth when he was cast out of the Garden of Eden. Buddhists believe it was left by Buddha en route to paradise, while Hindus insist it is Shiva’s doing. No matter the religion, this holiest of peaks is the end goal of a long, sweaty, back-breaking climb from the village of Dalhousie (allow around 8 hours for the up-and-back trek).

Religious or not, climbing Adam’s Peak is a spiritual experience – and proof that you don’t need to hike for days or weeks to experience the transformative power of pilgrimage. Begin at night as the stars twinkle, joining fellow pilgrims with head-torches flickering like fireflies to climb the steps. You’ll then arrive at the summit as day breaks and sunrise touches the island like a golden blessing. The pilgrimage season begins on poya (full moon) day in December and runs until the Vesak festival in May.

Waves hit the rocky coast below Strumble Head lighthouse, Wales

7. Wexford Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way, Ireland and Wales

Best for wild waves and Celtic spirit

Just imagine for a second how St Aidan must have felt back in the sixth century as he trod, staff in hand, along the wave-whipped shores of the Atlantic from Ferns in Ireland to St Davids in Wales to meet his mentor St David.

Now drop yourself right in the moment.

The recently launched Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way is a tale of two saints and two Celtic lands. Heading up and over gorse-clad cliff and along dune-flanked beach for 260km (162 miles) and crossing the Irish Sea by ferry, this pilgrimage trail enthralls with cultural heritage in the form of ruined abbeys, romantic castles, Celtic wells, Marian shrines and the clincher: magnificent St David’s Cathedral , which hosts the relics of Wales’ beloved patron saint.

Believer or not, nature is sure to grab you. In what the Celts would have described as a “liminal space” – where the gap between heaven and earth is small – these coastal landscapes touch the soul. Feel the spiritual connection with the living world standing atop wild, storm-smashed, lighthouse-topped Strumble Head, where seabirds (fulmars, razorbills, guillemots, peregrines) dive and screech while dolphins and seals splash offshore.

Broken up into nine bite-sized day walks of roughly 14 miles (22km) apiece and digitally way-marked, the trail is easy enough to hike and navigate, with overnight accommodation offered at sanctuaries, farms and hostels.

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