Portugal, a nation brimming with history and natural beauty, offers far more than just its famed cities, Lisbon and Porto. Across this Iberian gem, diverse landscapes unfold, from sun-drenched beaches to imposing mountains and verdant river valleys. Discovering the Best Places To Travel In Portugal depends on your passions, whether you seek golden shores and ocean adventures, or historic towns steeped in culture and culinary traditions. Let’s embark on a journey through some of Portugal’s most captivating destinations to inspire your travel plans.
Cobblestone streets and medieval buildings in Óbidos, Portugal
Óbidos: The Enchanting Hilltop Village
Best Hilltop Village
The historic village of Óbidos, perched atop a hill, offers a magical experience throughout the year. However, visiting during one of its vibrant festivals elevates the charm to another level. Imagine witnessing a mock jousting tournament at a medieval fair or immersing yourself in literature at Folio, Portugal’s premier international literary festival. Óbidos provides a stunning backdrop for memorable cultural experiences and a taste of authentic Portuguese heritage.
Lisbon: Vibrant Capital and Nightlife Hotspot
Best for Nightlife
Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital, sprawls across seven hills, revealing a breathtaking panorama of winding cobblestone streets, gleaming white cathedrals, and majestic public squares, all shaped by centuries of history. This dynamic city is packed with attractions, from exploring art galleries like the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, showcasing exquisite ceramic tiles, to discovering historic castles such as the Castelo de São Jorge, crowning the hilltop. Indulge in Lisbon’s iconic pastéis de nata (custard tarts) for a sweet taste of Portuguese tradition.
As night descends, Lisbon transforms into a lively hub for nightlife enthusiasts. The city’s party scene comes alive in traditional taverns, sophisticated jazz clubs, and nightclubs that pulse with energy until dawn. For beer lovers, Lisbon’s burgeoning craft beer scene offers exciting breweries and bars to explore, adding a modern twist to the city’s vibrant evening atmosphere.
A person with a camera overlooking a sunset beach in Setúbal, Portugal
Setúbal Peninsula: Wild Beaches and Coastal Solitude
Best for Wild, Cliff-backed Beaches
Just south of Lisbon lies the Setúbal Peninsula, a popular weekend escape for Lisbon locals. A short ferry and bus or bike ride will transport you to Costa da Caparica, an expansive beach that stretches seemingly endlessly, becoming increasingly untamed and secluded as you venture south. Whether you’re looking to learn to surf, relax on the sandy shores, or savor a meal with ocean views, Costa da Caparica is an ideal coastal destination.
For those seeking tranquility, the Parque Natural da Arrábida, located at the peninsula’s southern tip, offers a haven of natural beauty. Dramatic cliffs draped in lush greenery cascade down to hidden coves and pristine beaches like Praia do Portinho da Arrábida. Here, fine sands meet clear azure waters, and ancient Roman ruins add a historical dimension to this stunning coastal landscape.
Douro Valley: Portugal’s Premier Wine Region
Best Place to Drink Wine
East of Porto unfolds one of Portugal’s most picturesque regions: the Douro Valley. The Douro River gracefully meanders through rolling hillsides, meticulously terraced with vineyards that form Europe’s oldest designated wine region. Whether you arrive by boat, train, or car to the Douro Valley, prepare to be captivated by breathtaking vistas at every turn, particularly as you approach the charming village of Pinhão, nestled in the heart of this wine country.
Travel Tip: While a day trip from Porto offers a glimpse into the Douro Valley, consider an overnight stay to fully immerse yourself in the region’s beauty. Vineyard guesthouses like Quinta Nova or Casa Cimeira provide idyllic accommodations surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Portugal’s wine region.
Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, with colorful turrets and domes
Sintra: A Fairytale Escape Near Lisbon
Best for a Fantastical Escape
A short train ride from Lisbon transports you to Sintra, a realm that feels worlds away from the bustling capital. This historic hillside town, a perfect day trip from Lisbon, evokes a fairytale setting. Stone-walled taverns and the iconic multicolored Palácio Nacional da Pena create a whimsical atmosphere.
Lush forested hills envelop Sintra, concealing imposing castles, enchanting gardens, mysterious mansions, and age-old monasteries among the trees. Explore Quinta da Regaleira, Castelo dos Mouros, and Palácio Nacional de Sintra to fully embrace the fairytale magic of Sintra.
Travel Tip: Extend your visit into the evening to witness the mystical fog that often rolls in at night, adding another layer of enchantment to Sintra. Cozy up by the fire in one of Sintra’s charming bed and breakfasts for a memorable evening in this magical destination.
Évora: Medieval History and Culinary Delights
Best for Historical Architecture
Évora, the heart of the Alentejo region, stands as one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval towns, inviting visitors to spend a few days exploring its historical treasures. Within the 14th-century walls, a maze of narrow, winding streets leads to impressive monuments, including a magnificent medieval cathedral, ancient Roman ruins, and a picturesque central square, Praça do Giraldo.
Yet, Évora is not merely a historical relic; it’s also a vibrant university town, adding a lively contemporary dimension to its ancient charm. The town’s numerous restaurants offer a chance to savor the robust and flavorful cuisine of the Alentejo region, completing your Évora experience.
People enjoying cafes in Ribeira district, Porto, Portugal
Porto: Romantic City of Urban Exploration
Best for Urban Exploring
It’s hard to imagine a more romantic urban destination than Porto. Portugal’s second-largest city is a tapestry of narrow pedestrian walkways, ornate baroque churches, and charming cafe-lined squares, all leading down to the Douro River and its iconic bridges, like the Dom Luís I Bridge. Porto offers a wealth of experiences for urban explorers. Begin your exploration in the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and then cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia.
Vila Nova de Gaia is home to centuries-old port wine cellars where you can sample some of the world’s finest port wines. Delve into Porto’s history and Portuguese culture at the World of Wine (WOW), a comprehensive complex of museums, restaurants, and bars overlooking the city. While Porto is steeped in history, it also embraces modernity with contemporary architecture, diverse dining options, exciting nightlife, and a thriving arts scene, making it a dynamic and engaging city to explore.
The Minho: Traditional Villages and Natural Trails
Best for Traditional Villages and Wilderness Trails
The Minho region holds a special place in the hearts of the Portuguese. This verdant corner of Portugal is characterized by vineyard-covered valleys, rugged mountains, secluded beaches, and picturesque riverside towns that seem untouched by time. Braga serves as the gateway to the Minho, a city boasting Roman ruins, a legendary medieval cathedral, and tranquil flower-adorned plazas dotted with outdoor cafes and restaurants.
Further north, discover Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, a vast and dramatic wilderness of towering peaks, winding rivers, and timeless stone villages. Numerous hiking trails crisscross the park, guiding walkers past ancient Roman roads, crumbling castle ruins, and cascading waterfalls.
Travel Tip: If visiting during the summer months, cool off in the idyllic natural swimming holes found within Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês. These refreshing spots are among the best places to escape the summer heat in Portugal.
University town of Coimbra, Portugal, with clock tower and ancient buildings
Coimbra: Historic University Town with a Student Vibe
Best for a Student Vibe
Coimbra, Portugal’s quintessential university town, rises dramatically from the banks of the Rio Mondego. Its beautiful medieval quarter houses one of Europe’s oldest universities, the University of Coimbra. Students in traditional black capes stroll through the narrow streets, while the soulful sounds of fado music drift from Moorish archways towards the stained-glass windows of the historic Café Santa Cruz.
Travel Tip: Adults will appreciate Coimbra’s student-fueled nightlife and the charming medieval lanes of the historic center. For visitors with younger children, Portugal dos Pequenitos, a unique theme park featuring miniature replicas of Portuguese monuments, provides a fun and educational experience.
Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela: Hiking and Winter Alpine Fun
Best for Hiking and Alpine Activities in Winter
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park, home to Portugal’s highest mountain range, is the destination for breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and glimpses into a traditional way of life that is slowly fading. Hikers can explore an extensive network of high-altitude trails offering spectacular panoramic views.
At Torre, the summit of Serra da Estrela and Portugal’s highest point (artificially elevated to 2000m with a stone monument), you can even ski down Portugal’s only ski slope during winter. Keep an eye out for the adorable Serra da Estrela sheepdog puppies often seen frolicking by the roadside – you might be tempted to take one home!
Travel Tip: The charming mountain villages within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park serve as perfect bases for exploring the region and embarking on outdoor adventures.
The Algarve: Relaxing Family Holidays and Sunny Beaches
Best for a Relaxing Family Holiday
Portugal is a haven for sun-seekers, and the Algarve region on the southern coast is particularly renowned. The Algarve boasts a stunning and diverse coastline, offering everything from bustling, popular beaches at major resorts to secluded, tranquil beaches backed by dramatic, wind-sculpted cliffs. Days in the Algarve are filled with swimming in the Atlantic waves, leisurely walks along the oceanfront, or surfing some of Europe’s most impressive breaks.
The Algarve is also considered one of the best places to travel in Portugal for families with children. Family-friendly beaches, exciting water parks, and numerous outdoor activities, from boat trips to hidden sea caves and undeveloped islands, ensure entertainment for all ages.
Travel Tip: The Algarve enjoys around 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a fantastic destination year-round. However, visiting during the winter months can offer the best prices and fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful Algarve experience.
