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Portugal is a country known for its captivating historic cities like Lisbon and Porto. However, there is much more to Portugal than just these popular destinations. From stunning beaches to majestic mountains, lush river valleys to picturesque hilltop villages, Portugal offers a diverse range of attractions across its regions. Whether you’re interested in sun-kissed beaches, aquatic adventures, historic architecture, or traditional dining experiences, Portugal has something for everyone. Here are 11 of the best places to visit in Portugal:
Lisbon
Best for nightlife
Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, is a city that offers a postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, white-domed cathedrals, and grand civic squares. The city is packed with things to do, from exploring castles like the hilltop Castelo de São Jorge to browsing galleries like the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, which houses a trove of ceramic tiles. Lisbon also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with old-school drinking dens, jazz clubs, and open-all-night clubs that come alive once the sun goes down.
Planning tip: Lisbon has an emerging craft beer scene that you can experience at the city’s breweries and bars.
Douro Valley
Best place to drink wine
Located just east of Porto, the Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most beautiful areas. The region is famous for its meandering Rio Douro and steeply terraced vineyards, which make up Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. Whether you arrive by boat, train, or car, you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views at every turn, especially near the village of Pinhão in the heart of the region.
Planning tip: To make the most of the Douro Valley, consider spending the night at one of the vineyard-surrounded guesthouses in the area, such as Quinta Nova or Casa Cimeira.
Óbidos
Best hilltop village
The historic town of Óbidos is a charming destination with its medieval streets and ancient architecture. Wandering through the town’s tangle of ancient streets is enchanting at any time of year, but visiting during one of its festivals is a special treat. Whether you’re interested in a medieval fair with mock-up jousting matches or the Folio literature festival, Óbidos provides a picturesque backdrop for these events.
Sintra
Best for a fantastical escape
Less than an hour by train from Lisbon, Sintra feels like a fairy tale setting. This historic hillside township is adorned with stone-walled taverns and a multicolored palace. Forested hillsides surround the town, hiding imposing castles, mystical gardens, and centuries-old monasteries. The fog that sweeps in by night adds an extra layer of mystery to this enchanting destination.
Planning tip: Chilly evenings in Sintra are best spent by the fire in one of the town’s many charming B&Bs.
Setúbal Peninsula
Best for wild, cliff-backed beaches
South of Lisbon, the Setúbal Peninsula is a popular weekend getaway for Lisbon residents. A short ferry ride followed by a bus or bicycle ride takes you to the Costa da Caparica, a seemingly endless beachfront that gets wilder and less crowded the further south you go. If you’re looking for a surf lesson, some relaxation on the sands, or a meal with a view of the lapping waves, this is the place to be. For a more secluded experience, head to the Parque Natural da Arrábida at the southern end of the peninsula, where you’ll find cliffs, picturesque coves, and beautiful beaches like Praia do Portinho da Arrábida.
Évora
Best for historical architecture
Located in the Alentejo region, Évora is one of Portugal’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns. Inside the 14th-century walls, narrow winding lanes lead to striking monuments, including a medieval cathedral, Roman ruins, and a picturesque town square. Évora is also a lively university town with excellent Alentejan cuisine served in its many restaurants.
Porto
Best for urban exploring
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a romantic destination with narrow pedestrian lanes, baroque churches, and cafe-dotted plazas. The city is known for its historic Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its centuries-old port wineries in Vila Nova de Gaia. Porto offers a mix of dignified history and modern attractions, including cosmopolitan dining, vibrant nightlife, and artistic activities.
The Minho
Best for traditional villages and wilderness trails
The Minho region is a lush and verdant area of vineyard-covered valleys, mountainous wilds, and picturesque river towns. The gateway to the region is the city of Braga, which features Roman ruins, a medieval cathedral, and charming plazas with outdoor cafes. Further north, you’ll find the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, a rugged wilderness with dramatic peaks, meandering streams, and well-preserved stone villages. The park offers numerous hiking trails that take you past Roman roads, castle ruins, and sparkling waterfalls.
Planning tip: In the summer, the Minho region offers idyllic swimming holes, perfect for cooling down during hot weather.
Coimbra
Best for a student vibe
Coimbra is Portugal’s most atmospheric college town, situated on the banks of the Rio Mondego. The town’s medieval quarter is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Students dressed in black capes wander the narrow streets, while the sound of fado music drifts through the town gates towards the historic Café Santa Cruz. Coimbra offers a mix of student-driven nightlife and medieval charm, making it a vibrant destination for visitors of all ages.
Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela
Best for hiking and alpine activities in winter
The Serra da Estrela is Portugal’s highest mountain range and offers rugged scenery, outdoor adventures, and a glimpse into a vanishing traditional way of life. Hikers can explore a network of high-country trails with stunning vistas, while the region’s mountain villages provide perfect bases for outdoor activities. At the summit of Torre, the highest point in Portugal, you can even enjoy skiing on the country’s only ski slope. The region is also known for its adorable sheepdog puppies that can be seen playing by the roadside.
The Algarve
Best for a relaxing family holiday
The Algarve, located along Portugal’s south coast, is renowned for its gorgeous and varied coastline. Whether you prefer people-packed beaches at major resorts or secluded spots with dramatic cliffs, the Algarve has something for everyone. The region offers plenty of outdoor activities, including surfing, long oceanfront strolls, and exploring undeveloped islands. Families will also find a range of family-friendly beaches and water parks in the area.
Planning tip: The Algarve enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a great destination to visit at any time. Winter months offer the best prices and thinner crowds.
In conclusion, Portugal is a country that offers a wealth of diverse attractions beyond its historic cities. From the vibrant nightlife of Lisbon to the stunning vineyards of the Douro Valley, the picturesque hilltop village of Óbidos to the fantastical escape of Sintra, and the wild beaches of the Setúbal Peninsula to the historical architecture of Évora, Portugal has something for every traveler. Exploring the cities and regions mentioned above will provide an unforgettable experience of Portugal’s rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.