Portugal is a popular tourist destination in Europe because of its great weather, affordable travel expenses, and amazing attractions. The country’s rich history is evident in its architecture, particularly in Lisbon and Porto, where you can find elegant and opulent buildings that reflect Portugal’s past dominance as an empire.
The Algarve, in the south of Portugal, is a popular area known for its towns and beautiful beaches. The region is filled with hotels and golf courses. If you enjoy hiking, you can also experience stunning coastal views along the Algarve.
However, visiting one of Portugal’s islands, such as Madeira or the Azores, provides an entirely different, breathtaking experience. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, we can help you with the best places to visit in the country.
17. Braga
Braga is the third-largest city in Portugal and is located in the northern part of the country. It is surrounded by beautiful hills, valleys, and farms. Despite being known as the “city of archbishops,” Braga has much more to offer than just churches. Visitors can explore the charming old town and experience the lively nightlife.
The historical center of the city has narrow lanes, lovely plazas, and old buildings, giving it a unique atmosphere. The town also has a young and vibrant vibe due to its large student population. This means there are plenty of affordable and excellent cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy.
Additionally, Braga is home to the Archdiocese, making it a significant stop on the Portuguese Way pilgrimage route. Many people visit during the Semana Santa, a week-long celebration where religious processions take place between the numerous beautiful Baroque churches in the city.
Moreover, one of Braga’s most famous attractions is the peaceful Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, situated on a hilltop and offering breathtaking views of the surroundings.
16. Sintra
Sintra is a beautiful place located near the Sintra Mountains and the Lisbon Coast in Portugal. It is just a day trip away from Portugal’s capital city. Sintra has a stunning landscape of green hills, dotted with charming villas, retreats, palaces, and castles that have a history dating back to the 8th century.
It has been admired by the Romans, Moors, and Portuguese royalty. The famous poet, Lord Byron, was so captivated by Sintra’s beauty that he wrote a personal letter describing it as the most beautiful village in the world. Although walking in Sintra’s hilly terrain can be tiring, the views and experiences it offers are worth the effort.
However, for those who prefer not to walk, buses are available that can take you to all of the city’s attractions, like Pena’s Palace. This castle resembles Germany’s Neuschwanstein and was built in the 1800s as a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family. It is surrounded by a forested park with exotic trees, plants, and flowers.
Another must-visit is the Regaleira Palace and Gardens, known for its stunning architecture and Masonic symbols. The ancient ruins of the Castle of the Moors, located on the highest hill in Sintra, are also impressive.
Lastly, the romantic Monserrate Palace with its subtropical gardens should not be missed, and for those looking for something different, the Toy Museum displays over 20,000 toy items from ancient Egypt and beyond.
15. Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is located by the Tagus River and has a warm climate. It is known for its charming alleys, shops, cathedrals, bridges, and colorful neighborhoods. The city is famous for traditional fado music. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world and is loved for its different neighborhoods, or bairros.
Belém is a popular district with palaces, gardens, and historic monuments like the Jeronimos Monastery. Alfama is the oldest district with narrow streets, Moorish architecture, St. George’s Castle, and fado restaurants and bars. Chiado is the cultural center with museums and theaters.
Parque das Nações is the modern district with glass buildings, shops, and casinos. Bairro Alto is the entertainment area with bars and nightclubs. In Lisbon, you can enjoy delicious pastries in pastelarias, Portuguese tapas in outdoor cafes, and international cuisines in fine restaurants.
The city has a good public transportation network with buses and the metro, but the vintage trams like Tram 28 are a fun way to explore Lisbon’s historic areas and attractions.
14. Coimbra
Coimbra, a charming city in Central Portugal, is known for its rich history, beautiful gardens, unique style of fado music, and vibrant culture centered around one of Europe’s oldest universities.
One of the top activities in Coimbra is to explore and discover its many historic sites, such as the impressive Old Cathedral and the Gothic Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, where Queen Isabel’s tomb can be found.
A visit to the University of Coimbra is a must, especially to admire the breathtaking Joanina Library, renowned as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Throughout the city, there are cobblestone squares offering delightful shops and cafes to enjoy coffee and observe people.
Additionally, Coimbra boasts lovely city parks and botanical gardens, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. The city’s vibrant cultural scene is highlighted by fado music performances and academic festivals.
Notable events include the Tin Can Parade, which welcomes students at the beginning of the school year, and the eight-day “Burning of the Ribbons” party to celebrate the end of the second semester.
13. Porto
The city of Porto in northern Portugal is famous for its production of high-quality port wine. It is located on hills overlooking the Douro River and is known for its stunning natural and architectural features. Porto has a good public transport system, including buses, the metro, and a cable railway.
The Ribeira is a charming pedestrian zone in the heart of Porto, situated by the river. It is a lively area filled with cafes, restaurants, street vendors, and live music. The Ponte Dom Luis is a popular bridge that connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia and is known for its port wine cellars.
Porto is home to many beautiful old churches, such as the Church of Saint Francis and Porto Cathedral, which have intricate interiors and artistic works. Landmarks like the Cleric’s Tower and the Stock Exchange Palace, with its stunning Arab room, can also be found in Porto.
The city has a lot to offer besides sightseeing, with museums, concert halls, and a traditional marketplace called Mercado do Bolhão where you can find fresh fish, vegetables, fruits, and handicrafts.
Taking a boat cruise on the river or strolling along the garden-lined esplanade of the Foz will also provide breathtaking views of Porto’s natural beauty.
12. Aveiro
Aveiro is a city in Central Portugal that sits on the Atlantic Coast. It is often compared to Venice because of its charming canals, bridges, and colorful boats. The city has many historical sites, lovely beaches, and delicious food, making it a great place to visit.
The best way to explore Aveiro is by walking, but there are also tour boats and bicycles available. Some of the must-see attractions include the Aveiro Cathedral, São Gonçalinho Chapel, and Convento de Jesus, which all have beautiful architecture and artwork. Forum Aveiro is a shopping mall with various shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
If you’re looking for fresh fish, meat, produce, or souvenirs, the Fish Market and Central Market are great places to visit. Aveiro’s coastline, known as the Silver Coast, is famous for its clean and stunning beaches like Costa Nova, São Jacinto, and Barra, where you can enjoy activities like swimming, sailing, and kite surfing.
11. Azores
The Azores archipelago is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, around 1,500 kilometers away from continental Portugal. These nine islands were formed by volcanoes and have stunning scenery, perfect for outdoor activities.
Walking around the islands is a joy, with beautiful valleys and mountains overlooking the picturesque coastlines that are full of cliffs, hidden coves, and untouched beaches. The highest peak in the archipelago is Mount Pico, which offers awe-inspiring views, and there is also the peaceful Lagoa do Fogo crater lake to visit.
The waters surrounding the Azores are full of marine life, making dolphin and whale watching, scuba diving, and sailing popular activities. Although most people visit for the natural parks and reserves, there are also charming seaside cities and towns like Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroismo.
10. Nazare
Nazare is a small town located in the historical Estremadura Province. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches and rugged coastal cliffs, making it a scenic spot. The town is famous for its enormous waves that crash onto its Atlantic coastline. These waves are caused by the undersea Nazare Canyon, which attracts surfers from all over.
Apart from surfing, people also enjoy relaxing on the golden sands and admiring the stunning coastal views. The center of Nazare is charming and filled with cobbled lanes, seafood restaurants, boutiques, and peaceful pensions. There are also chapels, churches, and museums to explore, as well as a funicular that takes you to a nearby hilltop.
While the town gets crowded during the summer, it is also a popular destination for celebrating New Year’s Eve and Carnaval.
9. Algarve
The Algarve is a popular tourist destination in Portugal because of its sunny Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, charming towns, beautiful hills with flowers, historic sites, delicious food, and affordable prices.
It is located in the southernmost region of Portugal and offers various scenic views, including olive groves, traditional villages, villas, and a wild coastline with cliffs and summer resorts. The region is home to both busy cities and quaint towns, featuring cobblestone streets, historical architecture, and old churches.
Faro is the capital, while Lagos is known for its vibrant nightlife. Silves is famous for its red sandstone castle, and Tavira is an elegant town with Renaissance monuments, bridges, and castles.
The countryside, adorned with Roman ruins, also provides opportunities for golfing, hiking, biking, and horse riding at the Monchique mountain range, covered in strawberry trees.
The coastal area boasts beautiful beaches and hidden coves, where visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, deep-sea fishing, exploring caves, and taking yacht cruises. The Algarve’s cuisine benefits from its production of fresh food, such as fruit, almonds, carob beans, and seafood.
One traditional drink found throughout the region is Medronho, distilled from local strawberry tree berries.
8. Monsaraz
Monsaraz has a rich and varied history, with different groups of people ruling over it throughout the years. From the Romans and Visigoths to the Arabs and Knights Templar, many have fought over this settlement.
The reason for its popularity is its attractive location on a hilltop, with a stunning view of the Guadiana River and the border with Spain. The village contains remnants of its past, such as ancient archaeological sites and impressive architecture.
The castle, although in ruins, is the main highlight, but there are also lovely churches and chapels hidden among the charming cobbled streets and white-washed buildings. From the village walls and watchtowers, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Alqueva Dam and the surrounding fields.
Monsaraz is considered one of the oldest villages in Portugal, and it is definitely worth a visit for its magical atmosphere.
7. Guimaraes
Guimaraes, a city in the north of Portugal near Braga, is known for having one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historic centers in the country. It is often referred to as the ‘birthplace of Portugal’ because the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born here.
The city’s main attractions are its impressive tenth-century castle and the Grand Dukes of Braganza Palace, both of which have stunning architecture and offer insights into the city’s rich history. Guimaraes also has a charming medieval center with pretty plazas, old buildings, monuments, museums, and art galleries that are worth exploring.
Despite its historical significance, the city has a lively and youthful atmosphere due to the presence of a large student population. There are many vibrant cafes and bars scattered throughout the streets. Additionally, many visitors choose to go to the top of Penha Mountain, which is nearby, to enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
6. Peneda-Geres National Park
Located in the northwest of the country, on the border with Spain, Peneda-Geres is a beautiful place to visit and it is Portugal’s only national park. It was established in 1971 to protect valuable landscapes and ecosystems, as well as numerous villages that are found in scenic and secluded areas.
The park covers a large area and includes sweeping valleys, lush forests, rolling foothills, and fast-flowing rivers. There is a diverse range of plant and animal species that call the park’s mountainous surroundings home. Hiking trails and camping sites can be found throughout the park, providing excellent opportunities for outdoor activities.
Peneda-Geres is also known for its more than a hundred granite villages, which have a charming and timeless appearance and are situated amidst the breathtaking scenery. These small settlements have existed for centuries, so the park not only preserves its peaceful and picturesque nature, but also the ancient way of life of its inhabitants.
5. Madeira
Madeira Island, also known as the “Floating Garden of the Atlantic,” is a beautiful and fertile oasis located between Portugal and North Africa. It is famous for its lush green landscapes, flower gardens, wines, and extravagant New Year celebrations with incredible fireworks.
Being the largest island in the Madeira archipelago, it is considered one of Europe’s most stunning travel destinations. Its natural beauty, pleasant climate throughout the year, and low crime rate make it a popular choice for tourists from around the world.
Traveling to Madeira can be easily done by plane, cruise ship, or ferry, and once there, getting around the island is convenient with buses and rental cars.The island’s main attraction lies in its abundant and diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore magnificent parks, colorful gardens, enchanting forests, and protected nature reserves.
For those seeking adventure, there are lofty mountains and pebbled beaches caressed by the blue ocean waves. A must-visit spot is the Orchid Garden, known for its beautiful collection of orchids, and the Laurissilva Forest, which boasts the world’s largest concentration of laurel trees.
Other notable places include the levadas, an impressive network of canals and aqueducts that provide scenic walking paths.Madeira’s coastline offers pebbled beaches, crystal clear waters, natural rock pools, and a variety of activities such as fishing, diving, sailing, and even whale watching.
The capital city of Madeira is Funchal, a vibrant and historic city with numerous attractions. It is home to ancient churches, forts, tourist resorts, museums, restaurants, and bustling markets.
The Lido Promenade, lined with beautiful trees, provides breathtaking views of the ocean.In summary, Madeira Island is a stunning paradise in the Atlantic Ocean that captivates visitors with its flourishing landscapes, favorable climate, and abundant attractions.
4. Obidos
Obidos is a town located on a hill in western Portugal. It is surrounded by an old fortified wall. The Moors built a fort there in the 8th century, but it was later taken by the first King of Portugal in 1148. The fort was modified in the 14th century. The city’s main attractions are the wall, the medieval castle, and the historic center.
Visitors can easily explore the city by foot, wandering through narrow cobblestone streets. The city also has charming squares, cafes, shops, and markets selling local crafts. The churches, like Santa Maria and St. Peter’s, are beautiful with hand-painted tiles and decorations.
The castle itself is now a luxurious hotel, but it is still an impressive sight to see with its large gates, towers, and battlements.
Once a year, in July, Obidos hosts a medieval festival where people dress up in costumes, there are performances by jugglers and minstrels, knight tournaments, and a fair where you can try medieval food and buy crafts.
3. Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is a charming city located in the northern part of Portugal, close to the Atlantic Ocean. It has a picturesque setting at the mouth of the Lima River. This small city is well-known for its rich historical and cultural heritage and is a popular stop for travelers following the Portuguese Way.
Viana do Castelo has been a significant place of pilgrimage for many years, resulting in the presence of several centuries-old churches and a stunning Gothic-style cathedral scattered throughout the town. The medieval center of the city is still intact and showcases beautiful palaces, manor houses, and a few small museums.
From its elevated position on a hilltop, the Basilica of Santa Luzia offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. This basilica was inspired by the famous Sacre Coeur in Paris.
In addition to its impressive architecture and monuments, Viana do Castelo provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area and is an ideal starting point for exploring the Lima Valley. Many people come here to enjoy hiking in the nearby foothills or relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
2. Tomar
Tomar, located in the middle of Portugal, is a charming and picturesque town surrounded by fertile farmland. The streets of Tomar are filled with historical, cultural, and religious landmarks, as it used to be the headquarters of the Knights Templar.
The town showcases stunning architecture from Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles in its beautiful buildings. Among the numerous old churches, chapels, and palaces, the Castle and Convent of the Order of Christ stands out as the main attraction.
This massive complex, originally a stronghold for the Templars, played a crucial role in Portugal’s overseas expansion and Age of Discoveries. Interestingly, Tomar is also the birthplace of the Portuguese nation. Throughout the centuries, the town remained influential and bustling, preserving its rich history, culture, and heritage.
Even today, you can witness the town’s vibrant atmosphere through various significant festivals and events held annually.
1. Evora
Evora is a small town in southern Portugal known for its rich history. It was once a thriving city during Roman times and now serves as the capital of the Alentejo region. The Old Town of Evora is particularly special, with over 4,000 well-preserved historic structures including Roman walls and temples.
The compact size of the city makes it easy to explore on foot, but horse carriage rides are also a popular and enjoyable way to see the sights.
Some of the top attractions include the 13th century Cathedral of Evora, Giraldo Square with its Renaissance fountain, the University of Evora, a chapel adorned with human bones, and the ruins of an ancient Roman temple. Strolling along the city’s old aqueduct will take you past charming shops, cafes, and houses tucked between the arches.
Just outside the city, you’ll find Europe’s largest collection of prehistoric megaliths, which are definitely worth a visit.
