What are the best places to see in Portugal?

Portugal, which is on the west part of the Italian Peninsula, is among Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. It is due to its pleasant temperature, low travel expenses, and diverse attractions. The wealth of Portugal’s heyday – when it ruled a vast empire stretching from Brazil to Macau to China. It is evident in its architecture. If you are planning for a trip, don’t forget to scroll this page down. Here is the list of the best places to see in Portugal.

17 Best Places to See In Portugal 

1. Lisbon

Lisbon is number one on the list of the best places to see in Portugal. Portugal’s wealth and biggest city, which stretches all along banks of the Tagus River near the Atlantic Ocean. The wind blows up instead of down among seven steep hills, creating an enchanting location of hot weather. There are alluring alleys, quaint shops, Gothic old churches, impressive roads, and colorful neighborhoods resounded through traditional fade music.

Lisbon, one of the world’s oldest cities, is famous for its various districts, or bairros. Belém, one of Portugal’s most famous districts, is popular for its royal palaces, gardens, and ancient buildings. Moreover, there are landmarks like the Jeronimos Monastery, which is one of the best places to see in Portugal. Alfama, a former Moorish enclave known for its maze old cobblestone lanes, rustic architecture, St. George’s Castle, and fado cafés and pubs, is the ‘s finest neighborhood.

The cultural center of Chiado is home to museums, theatres, and music venues. Parque das Naçes is the most contemporary sector, with glass and steel structures, business enterprises, and casinos. Whereas Bairro Alto is the theater district, with several pubs, discos, and nightclubs.

From pastelarias providing delectable pastries through outdoor cafés and bars selling Portuguese snacks, beer, and wine. It ensures excellent restaurants serving worldwide cuisine, eating in Lisbon is a treat in and of itself. It has a decent public transit network, including buses the metro. But the most fascinating way to see the city is to take one of the antique trams, such as the well-known Tram 28. It runs through ancient areas, parks, and major monuments.

2. Monsaraz

Monsaraz has a rich and glorious history and has been under rule through everybody from the Romans. And Visigoths to the Muslims and the Knights Templar. The village loves this place because it is on a gorgeous and strategic hillside. It is overlooking the Received great interest River near the Spanish border.

Much of its interesting past is still apparent, with age-old archaeological sites and awe-inspiring craftsmanship within the medieval village’s walls. While the crumbling castle is the primary attraction, there are several charming churches and chapels. These are nestled among the twisting cobblestone alleyways and exquisite white-washed homes.

The village’s walls and watchtowers provide beautiful views of the Alqueva Dam’s waters and the patchwork of green, brown. And yellow fields that surround it. Monsaraz is also one of the best places to see in Portugal’s oldest settlements.

3. Nazare

The small community of Nazare, located in the ancient Estremadura Province, is nestled in a gorgeous location. There is a surrounding of rocky coastal cliffs and magnificent beaches. This is one of Portugal’s more popular coastal resorts. It is famous for the massive waves that pound its Atlantic coast.

The town has traditionally drawn surfers because of the powerful waves thrown up by the underwater Nazare Canyon. While surfing world-record-breaking waves is a popular hobby. Many visitors tend to rest on the golden sands or take in the panoramic views of the shore. It is full of wonderful seafood restaurants, modest boutiques, and tranquil pensions, with many picturesque cobblestone pathways. Visitors can also visit several temples, churches, and galleries. As well as a charming funicular that leads you to a local hilltop.

4. Peneda-Geres National Park

Peneda-Geres National Park, located in the northwest of the country near the Spanish border. It is a great area to explore and Portugal’s sole national park. It was founded in 1971 to safeguard valuable landscapes and habitats. As well as several settlements nestled in attractive and remote locations. The park, which stretches over a large area, includes it all from sweeping plains and lush woods to rolling slopes and fast-flowing rivers. Its hilly boundaries are home to a broad range of animals and vegetation. Its peaks and plateaus are home to several good hiking trails and camping spots.

Peneda-Geres also has over a hundred marble villages with a timeless look and feel that is nestled among the breathtaking scenery. The park not only conserves the peaceful and scenic nature but also their antiquity way of life, as the small colonies have existed for centuries.

5. Braga

Braga, Portugal’s third-largest city, is located in the northern part of the country, flanked by gently sloping hills, vast valleys, and fertile fields. Although it is renowned as the ‘city of archbishops,’ it has much more to offer visitors than just churches. It comes with a lovely old town and vibrant nightlife.

While the ancient heart of town is full of winding little alleyways, magnificent plazas, and gorgeous ancient houses, the town has a youthful and dynamic vibe thanks to its high school population. As a result, there are many inexpensive but great cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as stunning monuments and museums.

It is also one of the best places to see in Portugal because it is home to the Diocese of Braga, and so many people are visiting during the week-long Semana Santa. This is the time of year when religious parades make their way between both the city’s many beautiful Baroque churches. The calm mountaintop sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which affords breathtaking views over the environs, is also one of its (and Portugal’s) best popular tourist attractions.

6. Tomar 

Tomar, one of Portugal’s most beautiful and scenic cities, is located in the country’s central region, surrounded by vast farmland. Its ancient alleys are home to notable historical, artistic, and religious treasures, as it was originally the home of Templars.

Beautiful structures with great architecture, including Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance types, may be found in the heart of the city. While there are numerous millennia chapels, chapels, and castles, the Castle and Monastery of the Order of Jesus is the primary attraction. It was from this enormous and beautiful castle complex, once a Templar fortress, that Portugal’s expansion and Time of Discoveries started.

Surprisingly, it was in Tomar that the Portuguese nation was founded. This was a hugely prominent city and community for ages. This great history, art, and tradition can be found everywhere, and the town hosts several notable events and festivals each year.

7. Guimaraes

Guimaraes is located in the north of Portugal, not far from Braga, and has one of the most attractive and well-preserved medieval centers in the country. Because Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first monarch, was born here, the city is commonly referred to as the “birthplace of Portugal. Its two biggest attractions are its spectacular 10th castle and Grand Dukes of Braganza Palace, which are both located in the city’s core. They’re interesting to visit since they have beautiful architecture and provide an invaluable glimpse into the city’s rich historical legacy.

It’s a medieval town, which is home to beautiful plazas, beautiful old buildings, cathedrals, museums, and art galleries, is also a delight to roam around. Despite its long history, the city is alive and well, thanks to its high school population. Its alleys are lined with bustling bars and cafes.

8. Coimbra

Coimbra, a picturesque city in Central Portuguese, is home to a vast collection of ancient structures. It has gorgeous gardens, the ’s biggest form of fado music, and a bustling culture based on one of the Oldest existing colleges. One of the finest things to do in Coimbra is to get lost and explore the various ancient sights. You can enjoy the range from the majestic Old Cathedral to a Gothic Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha. Moreover, do not forget to see the houses of Queen Isabel’s tomb.

A journey to Coimbra would be incomplete without a stop at the University of Coimbra to see the Joanina Collection. It is another of the world’s most magnificent libraries. Cobblestone squares around the city include charming shops and cafés where you can consume coffee and person-watch. Moreover, there are beautiful city parks and gardens that are ideal for strolls or picnicking. Coimbra’s bustling cultural scene is well known for its fado music concerts and academic celebrations. It includes a Tin Can Parade to welcome students at the start of the new year with an eight-day “Burning of the Ribbons” festivity at the middle of the 2nd semester.

9. The Azores

The Azores archipelago is situated around 1,500 kilometers off the western coast of mainland Portugal in the middle of the Sea. Its nine island chains have magnificent views and amazing outdoor leisure options. Hiking all around islands is a joy, with green valleys and mountains overlooking gorgeous shorelines dotted with craggy cliffs, quiet coves, and immaculate beaches. The majestic Mount Pico – the archipelago’s highest point. And the picturesque lake of Lagoa do Fogo is one of its most striking attractions.

Because the waters around the Azores are teeming with life, dolphin and whale watching, as well as scuba swimming and sailing, all popular sports. Whereas most visitors come to see the archipelago’s incredible ecological parks and marine reserves, it does have some charming beach cities and villages, like Ponta Delgada and Angra do Heroismo.

10. Aveiro

Aveiro is a lively city in Central Portugal that is sometimes referred to as “the Venice of Portugal” due to its attractive environment of stunning canals linked by beautiful bridges and filled with colorful gondolas and speed watercraft. Also, it is also one of the best places to see in Portugal due to its historic attractions, beautiful beaches, and delectable food.

Hiking is the most fun method to see Aveiro, but tour ships and an unlimited bicycle network are also accessible. The Aveiro Cathedral, that so Gonçalinho Chapel, and the Convento de Jesus are among the city’s many tourist attractions. These all have beautiful architecture and art. The Plaza Aveiro is a retail mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and a theater. Fresh seafood, meat, fruit, and handicrafts suitable for gifts are available in markets such as the Fish Shop and Market Square.

11. Evora

Evora is a tiny town in the Alentejo lowlands area of southern Portugal, yet it has a lot to offer tourists. Also, Evora, which has a history reaching back more than 2,000 years, was once a prosperous Roman metropolis. Today, Evora is the headquarters of the Alentejo region, and it is famous for its very well Old Town, which has over 4,000 historic monuments, including roman fortifications and temples.

All of Evora’s major attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it simple to take in the sights on foot. A horse and carriage ride near to 13th-century Cathedral of Evora, one of Portugal’s most famous Gothic constructions, is a wonderfully fun way to sightsee Evora. Giraldo Square, with its Renaissance waterfall, the University of Evora, a bizarre chapel painted with genuine human bones, and the foundations of an old Roman temple are among must-see historic sights.

A journey down the city’s historic aqueduct reveals a plethora of stores, cafés, and residences that have been artfully concealed between the arches. Not far from the city lays Europe’s biggest prehistoric megalithic complex and is one of the best places to see in Portugal. 

12. Obidos

Obidos, located on a hilltop in western Portugal’s Centro Region, is surrounded by a historic defensive wall. The Moors built a stronghold on top of the hill in the eighth century. It was acquired from the Moors by Afonso Henriques, the very first King of Portugal. It was in 1148 and remodeled in the 14th century.

Besides the wall, the city’s major attraction is the impressive medieval castles and central district. It can be simply wandered through. A maze of small cobblestone alleyways leads tourists past bustling squares, welcoming cafés, charming shops, marketplaces offering local goods. And whitewashed buildings adorned with bright flowers. Elegant historic churches, such as Santa Maria and St. Peter’s, satisfy the eye with their hand-painted tiles, ceilings, or walls. The castle, with its towering architecture, massive gates, towers, and battlements. It is now a magnificent hotel, but it is still a sight to behold.

Obidos’ annual Medieval Festival, held in July, involves a costumed procession, jugglers, roving minstrels, jousting knights, musical shows, and a craft fair displaying medieval crafts and cuisine such as spit-roasted meat and excellent sausage.

13. Porto

The lively city of Porto spreads along the hills above the Douro River in northern Portugal, recognized for both its environmental and architectural splendor. Porto, which is well to other large cities, has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, a subway, and a cable train. The picturesque walking zone, the Ribeira, is located in the center of Porto and is an evocative spot on the river, bursting with live music, bars, restaurants, and street sellers. The Ponte Dom Luis, a metal, double-deck arch bridge that connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, well-known for its port wine cellars, dominates this famous tourist destination.

Beautiful historic churches with intricate interiors, creative works, and gardens, such as the Church of Saint Francis and Porto Cathedral, are among Porto’s many architectural gems. Other notable structures include the Cleric’s Tower and palaces such as the Stock Exchange Palace, which has a unique Arab collection.

Porto, in addition to tourism, has a plethora of other intriguing things to do and see. Quality arts and culture may be found in renowned museums and performance houses. The historic market of Mercado do Bolho offers fresh seafood, veggies, fruits, and crafts. Boat rides on the river and walks all along Foz’s vegetable patch esplanade provide stunning views of a city’s environmental splendor.

14. Madeira 

Madeira Island, known as the “Flying Garden of the Atlantic,” is a rich paradise in the Atlantic. It is between Portugal and North Africa, known for its beautiful green landscape, flowerbeds, and wines. Also, great New Year’s festivities, which include one of the world’s greatest fireworks shows.

Moreover, it is the main island inside Madeira island, which is an independent province of Portugal. It is one of Europe’s finest attractive travel destinations. The island’s stunning look, pleasant climate throughout the year. And almost criminal offense status draws visitors from all around the world. Also, Madeira’s greatest draw is its rich terrain, which includes lush parks, colorful gardens, lovely woods, and natural reserves. As well as steep hills and marbled beaches lapped with blue ocean waves.

The Orchid Garden and the Laurissilva Forest, which has the world’s largest concentration of laurel, are also must-sees. The levadas, a magnificent system of canals and aqueducts that create walking trails that weave through stunning countryside. They are another must-see. Pebbled beaches, crystal blue water, natural stone pools, and sports like angling, diving, sailing, and whale watching are available along the island’s coastline.

Funchal, Madeira’s headquarters and main city, is home to medieval churches, fortresses, and tourist areas. Moreover, galleries, cafes, and marketplaces, and the tree-lined Lido Promenade with amazing ocean views.

15. Sintra

Sintra is a stunning setting of grassy hills interspersed with lovely villas, royal getaways, and palaces. Moreover, castles going back to ancient times, situated in the slopes of the Sintra Mountains on the Lisbon Coast. It is just a day weekend getaway from Portugal’s capital city. Sintra’s splendor charmed the great poet, Lord Byron, who wrote about it in a private message. You can experience the characterizing it as the most lovely hamlet in the world.

The hills of Sintra make walking difficult, but the rewards are well worth it. Some buses stop near all of the city’s attractions, including Pena’s Palace. It is a magnificent castle reminiscent of Germany’s Neuschwanstein. Pena’s Palace, built in the mid-1800s as a summer home for the Portuguese royal family. There is a surrounding of woodland parklands housing unique trees, flowers, and flowers.

The stunning historical remains of the Castle of the Moors, which crowns the city’s tallest peak. And the beautiful Monserrate Palace with its subtropical gardens is also a must-see. The Toy Museum is a fascinating distraction that displays over 20,000 toy artifacts dating back to ancient Egypt.

16. Algarve

The Algarve is among the best places to see in Portugal due to its sunny Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, charming villages, flower-clad hills, ancient attractions, wonderful gastronomy, and inexpensive prices. The Algarve, located in the nation’s southernmost section, is a visual feast, with serene landscapes of olive groves. Moreover, the charming whitewashed villages, and magnificent houses, as well as the wild. Moreover, the windy coast with its towering cliffs studded with summer resorts. It is one of the best places to see in Portugal.

It is home to vibrant cities as well as quiet communities, with cobblestone streets, antique architecture, and stunning old churches. Faro is the region’s capital, while Lagos is the area’s nightlife hotspot. Silves, has a surrounding of orange trees, and is famous for its red sandstone castle. Whilst Tavira is an attractive town that has a lot of Renaissance buildings, bridges, and castles.

The lovely landscape, peppered with Roman antiquities, also provides a variety of golf courses. And the strawberry forest Monchique mountainous region is ideal for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Beautiful beaches and hidden coves along the shore. And aquatic activities like sunbathing, deep-sea angling, cave exploration, and boat trips are available.

The Algarve’s fresh food output, like fruit, almonds, carob beans, and shellfish, contributes to its delectable cuisine. Medronho is a tradition and culture found across the Algarve that is distilled from the berries of the indigenous strawberries tree.

17. Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo is located in northern Portugal, directly adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean. It is in a magnificent location at the mouth of the Lima River. The little city is a popular destination along the Portugal Way and has unique and significant history and contemporary attractions.

As it has long been a popular pilgrimage destination, the town has a lot of centuries-old churches. And a stunning Gothic-style cathedral. It’s a very well medieval town also has beautiful palaces and manor buildings, as well as a few modest museums.

The majestic Basilica of Santa Luzia, which has a pattern after Sacre Coeur in Paris, towers over everything from its commanding hilltop perch. Aside from the exquisite architecture and great structures, Viana do Castelo provides breathtaking stunning views region. And serves as a good base for visiting the Lima Valley.

As of now, you have learned about the best places to see in Portugal. So, what are you waiting for? Just get ready for an amazing trip and book your flight!