Portugal is mainly visited for its architecture, culture, pleasant climate, coastal beaches, natural attractions.
Having visited several times and in various places myself, I can also confirm the above statement. It’s one of the most pleasant countries I have been to.
Table of Contents
Best places in Portugal
Porto
Although it’s usual to start with the capital, I’ll begin with Porto. Many consider it one of the most atmospheric cities in Europe.
Located along the Douro River, this city is the center of Portuguese wines. When visiting Porto, don’t miss the Vila Nova de Gaia district, where wine bars and cellars line up one after another!
The Ribeira district captures the essence of Porto’s past. Its alleys hide many bars and cafés, transforming into a lively area at night.
And of course, the Lello bookstore is a must-visit! Not familiar with the name? Then you might not know the Harry Potter series. Hogwarts’ staircase was modeled after the stairs in this bookstore.
Lisbon
Perhaps this capital city should be the first stop. The city is crisscrossed by charming, old-school trams that have become a tourist attraction, with their unique design becoming a symbol of Lisbon.
In the city’s famous districts (Alfama, Bairro Alto, Baixa), immerse yourself in the narrow, atmospheric streets, where numerous bars, restaurants, and cafés evoke the true Portuguese spirit.
Lisbon is permeated with the era of great maritime discoveries. The memory of these times can be seen in many places, which have become popular tourist destinations.
Madeira
There is an island between the Azores and Canary Islands that is a mix of a jungle and a botanical garden.
For those who love active relaxation and hiking, Madeira is the perfect terrain. The outstanding routes are the levadas, where you can hike along lengthy water channels.
Wonderful vegetation, quaint villages, and beautiful viewpoints await those who choose this island!
Óbidos
This town near the capital is famous for its city walls and castle, which were originally built by the Moors in the 8th century.
The city walls were severely damaged in the earthquake of 1775, but fortunately, they were beautifully restored in the mid-20th century. You can walk along the high city walls.
Óbidos was the town of the Portuguese queens until 1833, being the personal property of the queens. Therefore, it was given special attention.
For chocolate lovers, the best time to visit is during spring. The International Chocolate Festival here is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Azores
There is an archipelago between Europe and America, which I think many people would like to visit. Often referred to as Europe’s Hawaii, it’s not an exaggeration to call it a paradise for nature lovers.
Each of the nine islands in the area offers something new. On one, you can find fantastic crater lakes, or calderas, on another, high green cliffs with cascading waterfalls. There are also volcanic caves, climbable volcanic mountains, and volcanic lava beaches.
In short, for those who want to explore a wild, beautiful landscape, the Azores are a perfect choice!
Praia da Falesia
And while we’re in the Algarve region, we cannot miss out on a popular and fantastic beach, which rightly ranks among Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.
The beach between Albufeira and Quarteira is popular not just for its sand and turquoise water. Behind the beach, red cliffs rise, at the foot of which we can enjoy relaxation.
Lagos
One of the most beautiful cities in Portugal’s popular holiday region, the Algarve.
Lagos was the main starting point for Portuguese exploratory voyages in the 15th century. This is why the city’s promenade is called the Avenue of the Discoverers.
The city center is situated around a lagoon where you can stroll beside beautiful yachts. The city has a long, sandy beach, one of the most beautiful in Portugal.
However, its most famous part is not this, but Ponta da Piedade. It consists of several rock formations with caves. There’s a beautiful view of the ocean from above.
Sintra
West of Lisbon, there is a town famous for its colorful palace.
The palace, once the summer residence of the Portuguese kings, sits atop a hill offering fantastic views. The castle is seen in many colors, as each tower and balcony is painted differently.
Fortunately, it’s easily accessible by train from Lisbon, making it an unmissable attraction!
Évora
Located to the east of Lisbon, this city has a history spanning about 2000 years. It was a favorite residence of the Portuguese kings until the Spanish occupation.
Several architectural styles are noticeable throughout the city, easily discovered while walking around. It became a significant settlement during Roman times and later fell into the hands of the Moors. Évora’s historical quarter is part of UNESCO’s cultural world heritage.
Many consider the city and the Alentejo region to be the most beautiful part of Portugal.
Coimbra
If you’re traveling by train between Porto and Lisbon, it’s worth stopping for a few hours in this wonderful small town.
In the old town, on a hill, rises Portugal’s first university. The building, in Manueline style, was originally the palace of King John III. The university’s library (Biblioteca Joanina) is a popular attraction, with beautiful rooms to explore.
Immerse yourself in the hilly neighborhood of the old town, where charming little alleys hide great restaurants and bars.
Aveiro
Also found on the Lisbon-Porto railway line, this city is considered by many to be the most beautiful coastal town.
It’s not without reason that it’s called the Venice of Portugal. Although it might be a bit of an exaggeration, the canals, bridges, and boating do lend a certain similarity.
The city is great for a few hours of exploration, where you can also observe the famous Portuguese tiles, the azulejos, on the houses.
Braga
Located northeast of Porto, this city is home to nearly 300 churches, earning it the nickname „the Portuguese Rome„.
Its most famous church is the Bom Jesus Cathedral, a few kilometers from the city, which has been part of the cultural world heritage since 2019. In the city center, the Sé is the most imposing, with the Manueline style being the most prominent.
In addition, the city’s numerous historic streets and the remarkable Raio Palace all contribute to Braga’s unique atmosphere.
Mafra
This small town northwest of Lisbon is renowned for its magnificent palace, placing it among the most beautiful places.
The Mafra National Palace, a baroque building complex, served as a royal residence, monastery, and basilica. The palace and monastery boast a vast library, holding more than 36,000 volumes.
The town’s surroundings are also stunning, with the nearby Tapada Nacional de Mafra serving as a nature reserve, an ideal spot for excursions.
Sortelha
This village near the Spanish border is among Portugal’s best-preserved medieval settlements.
Medieval walls surround the village, situated on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Sortelha’s most distinctive feature is its well-preserved stone houses and narrow, winding streets.
Amarante
To the west of Porto, one can find a truly charming small town.
The town lies along the Tâmega River, famous for its picturesque beauty and bridges. Amarante is best known for the Church of Saint Gonçalo, with its exceptionally beautiful interior.
Additionally, it is a center for wine and gastronomy tourism, especially famous for its Vinho Verde wine, made from native Portuguese grapes, offering an authentic tasting experience.
