Top Tourist Attractions And Things To Do In Portugal

Portugal sits in southwestern Europe, hugging the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula. This gem of a country blends the best of northern European and Mediterranean influences, creating a cultural and geographical mosaic.

Portugal was once a colossal power in continental Europe, spearheading age-old maritime expeditions and leaving an indelible mark on global history. The country’s storied past leaps out from more than just museums and textbooks; you can feel it in the cobbled streets, see it in the ancient fortresses, and experience it through vibrant festivals.

Portugal offers Mediterranean warmth, with mild winters and sun-drenched summers. If you want to explore historic sites, dive into rich culture, or bask in natural beauty, Portugal should be on your travel bucket list.

Tourist Travel Map of Portugal

Best Places to Visit In Portugal

Algarve, Portugal: 

With a warm climate and a 200km coastline, the Algarve is a haven for beach lovers, thrill-seekers, and culture buffs alike. The area between Lagos and Vale do Lobo is a hotspot, teeming with family-friendly hotels and vibrant nightlife.

The Algarve is a budget-friendly destination that is significantly cheaper than popular destinations like Spain and Greece. You’ll find safety, hear English spoken widely, and experience top-notch hospitality in the Algarve.

Best Things to Do in Algarve, Portugal:

1. Praia da Marinha: Renowned for its golden sands, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
2. Benagil Cave: A stunning sea cave accessible by boat, featuring a unique dome with an oculus opening to the sky.
3. Lagos Old Town: A historic center with cobbled streets, ancient walls, and charming squares.
4. Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente): The southwesternmost point in Europe, offering dramatic coastal views and a historic lighthouse.
5. Ria Formosa Natural Park: A series of lagoons and islands, providing habitats for unique bird species and an ideal spot for boat tours and nature walks.

Porto, Portugal: 

Porto is a beautiful city in northern Portugal, located at the outlet of the Douro River. It has a unique atmosphere, elegant neighborhoods, and large villas on narrow, cobbled streets. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto is just the perfect size to explore on foot. You’ll enjoy wandering down its alleyways full of history and nostalgia.

An evening walk along the Douro River, visiting the vibrant Mercado do Bolhão, or sampling its renowned Port wine are just some of the many things you can do in this fascinating city. Porto is a definite must-see city in Europe, even if it is just for a weekend break.

Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal:

1. Ribeira District: A UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant riverside promenade.
2. Livraria Lello: One of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, known for its neo-Gothic architecture and ornate wooden staircase.
3. Clerigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos): A baroque tower offering panoramic views of the city.
4. Dom Luís I Bridge: A double-deck iron bridge connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, offering stunning views of the Douro River.
5. Port Wine Cellars: Explore the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, learning about the production of Porto’s famous drink and enjoying tastings.

Sintra, Portugal: 

Sintra is a charming Portuguese town in the Serra de Sintra cooling hills. Hidden among its majestic pine forest, you will discover whimsical palaces, extravagant villas, and the ruins of a 10th-century Moorish castle.

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular places to visit in Portugal, thanks to its abundance of romantic architecture. Most places in the town date back to the 19th century, when the town was the retreat of choice for the Portuguese monarchy and associated nobility.

Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal:

1. Palácio da Pena: A colorful romanticist palace set atop a hill, blending various architectural styles and offering panoramic views.
2. Quinta da Regaleira: A gothic mansion surrounded by mysterious gardens, tunnels, and the renowned “Initiation Wells.”
3. Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros): Ancient ruins of a 9th-century fortress, providing spectacular views of the Sintra region.
4. Palácio Nacional de Sintra: A historic royal palace known for its distinct twin conical chimneys and richly decorated rooms.
5. Cabo da Roca: The westernmost point of continental Europe, where cliffs drop into the Atlantic, offering breathtaking vistas.

Coimbra, Portugal: 

Coimbra is a beautiful city in central Portugal, located on the banks of the Mondego River. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant student life. For over 100 years, Coimbra served as Portugal’s medieval capital and now holds the title of the university city of Portugal.

Coimbra is a city that rewards exploration, with charming cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, and beautiful views around every corner. It’s also an excellent base for exploring other parts of central Portugal, such as Batalha, Tomar, and Nazaré.

Best Things to Do in Coimbra, Portugal:

1. University of Coimbra: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world, with the stunning Joanina Library.
2. Sé Velha (Old Cathedral): A Romanesque cathedral dating from the 12th century with a fortress-like appearance and intricate cloister.
3. Monastery of Santa Cruz: A significant medieval monastery known for its Manueline architecture and the tombs of Portugal’s first two kings.
4. Conímbriga: Located just outside Coimbra, it’s one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal, showcasing mosaics, bathhouses, and a museum.
5. Jardim Botânico: A botanical garden belonging to the university, perfect for a serene stroll among exotic plants and historic greenhouses.

Lisbon, Portugal: 

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal and one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Lisbon is built on seven hills and has an unrivaled position by the sea, with several sandy beaches just minutes from downtown.

Lisbon is also known for its delicious food, including fresh seafood, pastries, and wine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit!

Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal:

1. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): An iconic fortified tower at the mouth of the Tagus River, symbolizing Portugal’s Age of Exploration.
2. Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos): A stunning example of Manueline architecture, housing the tombs of Vasco da Gama and other notable figures.
3. Alfama District: Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, a maze of narrow streets, ancient houses, and Fado music venues.
4. LX Factory: A transformed industrial complex now housing trendy restaurants, shops, galleries, and cultural spaces.
5. Tram 28: A historic tram route that winds through many of Lisbon’s most famous districts, offering a unique view of the city.

Madeira, Portugal: 

The Madeira Islands are a group of four islands located in the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Europe and Africa. The region is known for its rich biodiversity, impressive waterfalls, hiking routes, and landscapes. The two inhabited islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, are known for their vibrant and lush vegetation thanks to the mineral-rich volcanic soil. With over 130 hiking trails, there’s a trail for everyone. 

If you’re seeking a destination with a variety of activities, from hiking and whale watching to wine tasting and festivals, Madeira is the perfect place for you.

Best Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal:

1. Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro: The island’s highest peaks, offering stunning panoramic views and challenging hiking trails.
2. Monte Palace Tropical Garden: A vast botanical garden with exotic plants, ornamental lakes, and beautiful tile mosaics.
3. Levadas of Madeira: Unique irrigation channels crisscrossing the island, with accompanying walking paths offering scenic nature views.
4. Funchal’s Old Town (Zona Velha): A historic area with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and vibrant street art.
5. Cabo Girão: One of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, equipped with a glass-floored viewing platform overlooking the ocean and terraced fields below.

Azores, Portugal: 

The Azores are a group of nine islands located in the mid-Atlantic, belonging to Portugal. They offer a variety of natural and cultural attractions, such as whale watching, diving, hiking, canyoning, sailing, surfing, golfing, paragliding, tea plantations, pineapples, flowers, and volcanic hot pools. The Azores are not a typical tropical destination, as they have mild temperatures and rain throughout the year.

The best time to visit is from June through August. The Azores are accessible by flying from the East Coast of the U.S. or Lisbon. Most flights arrive at João Paulo II Airport on São Miguel Island. You can hop between islands in the Azores by taking a local plane or ferry.

Best Things to Do in Azores, Portugal:

1. Sete Cidades Caldera: A massive volcanic crater filled with two juxtaposed lakes, one green and the other blue, offering spectacular views.
2. Furnas Valley: Geothermal hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and fumaroles set in a lush landscape, also known for its traditional “cozido” stew cooked in the earth.
3. Angra do Heroísmo: A UNESCO World Heritage city on Terceira Island, showcasing historic buildings, churches, and forts.
4. Mount Pico: The highest peak in Portugal, located on Pico Island, is an excellent spot for hiking and taking in panoramic island views.
5. Whale and Dolphin Watching: The deep Atlantic waters around the Azores are prime territories for spotting various whale and dolphin species.

Douro Valley, Portugal: 

The Douro Valley is a picturesque northern Portugal region surrounding the Rio Douro. It is known for its terraced vineyards, which produce some of the world’s best wine, including Port wine. The Douro Valley is also home to charming villages, stunning natural scenery, and a rich history and traditions.

The Douro Valley is located in northern Portugal and stretches over 600 km (373 miles). Porto is considered the main gateway to the Douro Region and is just one and a half hours away from the valley. There are several ways to get to the Douro Valley from Porto, including by road, train, bus, cruise boat, or helicopter.

Best Things to Do in Douro Valley, Portugal:

1. Wine Tasting Tours: Visit traditional quintas (wine estates) to sample the region’s famed port wine and red wines.
2. Douro River Cruise: Experience the valley’s terraced vineyards and scenic landscapes from the vantage point of the river, often aboard traditional rabelo boats.
3. Lamego: A picturesque town known for its Baroque Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios and ancient cathedral.
4. Historic Train Ride: Board the historical train for a journey alongside the river, capturing the essence of the valley’s beauty.
5. Pinhão: A charming riverside town with ornate train station tiles depicting the region’s wine-making traditions and landscapes.

Cascais, Portugal: 

Cascais, a former fishing town turned popular Lisbon getaway, blends traditional charm with modern tourism. Known for its 19th-century villas and museums, it’s a hub of Portuguese heritage and vibrant nightlife. The beaches here range from the pristine Portuguese Riviera to the wild surf spots of the Serra de Sintra coastline.

Just a short train ride takes you to the center of vibrant Lisbon, or the north is Sintra with its whimsical palaces and cooling hills. There is much to love about Cascais, either as a holiday destination or for a day trip.

Best Things to Do in Cascais, Portugal:

1. Boca do Inferno: A dramatic chasm on the coastline where the sea crashes into eroded cliffs, creating a spectacle especially during high tides.
2. Cascais Old Town: Wander through cobbled streets, squares, and past traditional Portuguese architecture, dotted with quaint shops and eateries.
3. Praia da Ribeira: A popular sandy beach right next to the town center, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and watching local fishermen.
4. Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães: A historic mansion-turned-museum showcasing art, antiques, and beautifully preserved interiors.
5. Parque Marechal Carmona: A serene park with vast green spaces, ponds, a variety of plants, and even peacocks roaming freely.

Évora, Portugal: 

Évora is a delightful city in the Alentejo region of central Portugal. Évora is renowned for its fascinating historical sights, delicious food, and beautiful countryside. The city was one of the most influential cities of medieval Portugal.

The sheer number of historical monuments actively reflects this rich history. There are medieval palaces, Gothic religious buildings, delightful plazas, and cobbled streets within Évora’s ancient walls.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Lisbon or a place to spend your holiday, Évora should be high on your list of places to visit while in Portugal. A typical 1-day tour of Évora includes visiting all major tourist sites within 4 to 5 hours of sightseeing.

Best Things to Do in Évora, Portugal:

1. Templo Romano: Often referred to as the Temple of Diana, this well-preserved Roman structure dates back to the 1st century AD.
2. Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora): A magnificent Gothic cathedral with a blend of architectural styles, offering panoramic views from its rooftop.
3. Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones): A haunting chapel adorned with the bones and skulls of thousands, reflecting on life’s transience.
4. Praça do Giraldo: The main square of Évora, lined with Renaissance-era facades, arcades, and a central fountain.
5. University of Évora: Established in the 16th century, the university features beautiful cloisters and a picturesque courtyard.

Guimarães, Portugal: 

Guimarães is a historical city in northern Portugal, considered by many as the nation’s birthplace. The city is a living, breathing tapestry of Portugal’s rich history and youthful energy.

From its status as the nation’s birthplace to its vibrant cultural scene, this city is a goldmine of experiences. Savor the local cuisine, catch a football game, or lose yourself in the medieval streets that tell tales as old as time.

Guimarães is a destination that defines the very essence of the country and should be on top of your list when visiting Portugal.

Best Things to Do in Guimarães, Portugal:

1. Guimarães Castle: A medieval fortress, historically significant as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation, offers panoramic views of the city.
2. Palace of the Dukes of Braganza: A 15th-century residence showcasing period furnishings, tapestries, and artifacts from Portugal’s rich history.
3. Historic Centre of Guimarães: A UNESCO World Heritage site with winding cobbled streets, traditional buildings, and charming squares.
4. Largo da Oliveira and Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira: The iconic square and church, symbolizing the historic and cultural heart of the city.
5. Monte da Penha: A verdant hilltop area with hiking trails, viewpoints, and the Sanctuary of Penha, providing a peaceful retreat and sweeping views of Guimarães.

Fátima, Portugal: 

Just a hop and a skip north of Lisbon, Fátima is a spiritual powerhouse drawing thousands of pilgrims yearly. Nestled on the Cova da Iria plateau, near Leiria, it’s a place steeped in history—named after a 12th-century Moorish princess.

The Basilica at Fátima is the most prominent tourist attraction, with its sky-high 213-foot tower adorned with a bronze crown and crystal cross. Miraculous cures have come to light here, adding an extra layer of spiritual allure, even without widespread advertising. Fátima is a potent mix of history, spirituality, and wonder.

Best Things to Do in Fátima, Portugal:

1. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima: A world-renowned pilgrimage site commemorating the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children.
2. Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary: A neo-Baroque basilica housing the tombs of the three seers, Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta.
3. Chapel of the Apparitions: The exact location where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared, marked by a marble pillar and statue.
4. Basilica of the Holy Trinity: A modern and minimalist basilica, one of the largest Christian churches in the world, known for its unique architecture and art.
5. Via Sacra and Hungarian Calvary: A path followed by pilgrims, representing the Stations of the Cross, culminating in a set of chapels dedicated to the Passion of Christ.

Tomar, Portugal: 

Tomar is a charming riverside town located around two hours north of Lisbon. It’s a town that blends small-town charm with a lot of history, including one of Portugal’s most famous UNESCO heritage sites.

Tomar is an ideal tourist destination for those interested in Portugal’s history or culture. The town boasts numerous historical monuments, many of which hold religious significance.

If you’re looking for a break from the hectic sites in Lisbon, Sintra, and even Cascais, then Tomar might be for you. Being slightly off the beaten track means you can slow down and enjoy the town and its sites.

Best Things to Do in Tomar, Portugal:

1. Convent of Christ: Originally a 12th-century Templar stronghold, this UNESCO World Heritage site later became a monastery with stunning Manueline architecture.
2. Tomar Castle: Surrounding the Convent of Christ, the castle’s walls and towers stand testament to the town’s medieval history.
3. Praça da República and São João Baptista Church: The main square of Tomar, featuring a 15th-century church and the statue of Gualdim Pais, founder of the town.
4. Synagogue of Tomar: One of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, now housing a small Jewish museum.
5. Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes: A serene park perfect for leisurely strolls, featuring themed gardens, pathways, and the Charolinha, a miniature neoclassical temple.

Óbidos, Portugal: 

Óbidos is a picturesque village in the Leiria district of Portugal, about an hour’s drive north of Lisbon. It is a well-preserved medieval village surrounded by walls and defended by a Moorish castle. The village is known for its charming whitewashed houses, cobbled alleys, and colorful flowers.

Historically, Óbidos was known as a place of beauty and wealth traditionally owned by the Queen of Portugal. Óbidos is now a UNESCO Creative City home to the FOLIO Literary Festival.

Best Things to Do in Óbidos, Portugal:

1. Óbidos Castle: A well-preserved medieval castle with robust walls that dominate the town’s skyline, offering panoramic views of the surroundings.
2. Walled Town: Wander through the maze-like cobbled streets of this ancient town, lined with whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers.
3. Porta da Vila: The main entrance to the town, distinguished by its beautifully tiled chapel dedicated to the town’s patron saint.
4. Igreja de Santa Maria: An impressive church featuring a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, known for its painted ceilings and azulejo tiles.
5. Ginja Tasting: Try the local cherry liqueur, “Ginja,” typically served in chocolate cups, representing the region’s sweet tradition.

Aveiro, Portugal:

Aveiro is a charming coastal city in northern Portugal, about an hour’s drive from Lisbon. It is known for its picturesque canals, colorful Moliceiros boats, and Art Nouveau architecture.

Aveiro is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. Thanks to its renowned university, wide central avenues, and several beach resorts nearby, the city has a youthful and energetic vibe. It’s occasionally dubbed the Venice of Portugal due to its small network of picturesque canals.

Aveiro is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a day trip from Lisbon or Coimbra. It’s very walkable and has oodles of character. You can easily visit all the major sights in one day.

Best Things to Do in Aveiro, Portugal:

1. Ria de Aveiro: Explore the picturesque canals on a traditional moliceiro boat, witnessing the unique blend of urban and natural landscapes.
2. Art Nouveau Tour: Admire the elegant Art Nouveau buildings that line the canals, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage.
3. Costa Nova: Visit the nearby beach area famous for its colorful striped wooden houses and sandy shores along the Atlantic.
4. Aveiro Museum: Housed in the former Convent of Jesus, this museum showcases the religious and artistic history of the region, including the tomb of the city’s patron saint.
5. Aveiro Salt Pans: Discover the traditional salt extraction process at these historic salt pans, an essential part of Aveiro’s economic history.

Braga, Portugal: 

Braga is located in the Minho region of Portugal and is the third-largest city in the country. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

The city is home to one of Portugal’s most prominent universities, contributing to its youthful and energetic atmosphere. Braga holds the title of Portugal’s religious center, boasting the highest concentration of religious buildings among Portuguese cities.

Braga is one of the best options if you’re looking for a day trip from Porto. Traveling to Braga from Porto is accessible as a regular and inexpensive train service connects both cities.

Best Things to Do in Braga, Portugal:

1. Bom Jesus do Monte: A remarkable sanctuary known for its Baroque staircase that represents the stages of the Cross, culminating in the impressive church at the summit.
2. Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga): The oldest cathedral in Portugal, showcasing a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, with remarkable interiors.
3. Arco da Porta Nova: An 18th-century ceremonial arch that serves as a gateway to the city, adorned with intricate Baroque details.
4. Palácio dos Biscainhos: A historical palace that hosts a museum showcasing decorative arts from the 17th to the 19th centuries, set within beautiful gardens.
5. Santa Barbara Garden (Jardim de Santa Bárbara): A charming garden located next to the former Archbishop’s Palace, known for its well-maintained flowerbeds and the medieval ruins backdrop.

Nazaré, Portugal: 

Nazaré is a picturesque seaside town located approximately 120 km north of Lisbon along the famous Silver Coast of Portugal. Once a traditional fishing village, it has become a summer seaside resort. Nazaré is also known for its world-famous giant waves, which attract surfers from all over the world.

Nazaré has experienced a boom in the last few years and is no longer just a seaside town. It’s now a year-round destination due to the monster winter waves attracting surfers. 

Nazaré’s main beach is one of Portugal’s most accessible beaches, with long and wide access points. The vast sand stretch makes it a lovely beach for sunbathing. However, it can be overcrowded during summer, and the waters can be pretty rough despite having lifeguards. 

Best Things to Do in Nazaré, Portugal:

1. Praia da Nazaré: Relax on this expansive sandy beach, famous for its impressive waves and the backdrop of the town’s white-washed buildings.
2. O Sítio: Perched above the main town, this neighborhood offers panoramic views and is home to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré.
3. Nazaré Lighthouse (Farol da Nazaré): Located on the prominent headland, it offers a vantage point to witness the giant waves Nazaré is renowned for, especially during the big wave surf season.
4. Church of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré: A beautiful 17th-century church dedicated to Our Lady of Nazaré, revered for its sacred image and intricate tiles.
5. Nazaré Funicular (Ascensor da Nazaré): Ride this century-old funicular connecting the beach level with O Sítio, enjoying the sweeping vistas of the coastline.

Viana do Castelo, Portugal: 

Viana do Castelo is a charming city in Portugal’s Costa Verde region. The city is known for its medieval center, attractive riverfront, and lovely beaches just outside the city.

The city’s old quarter showcases leafy 19th-century boulevards and narrow lanes crowded with Manueline manors and ornate palaces, all dramatically presided over by the pearly white, neo-Byzantine Santa Luzia church on the hilltop high above the town. The town’s setting just by the Rio Lima estuary makes Viana a handy base for exploring the lower Lima Valley.

Best Things to Do in Viana do Castelo, Portugal:

1. Santa Luzia Basilica: Located atop the Santa Luzia Hill, this iconic basilica offers panoramic views over the town, river, and coastline.
2. Gil Eannes Hospital Ship: Once a hospital vessel, it’s now a museum ship anchored in the city’s port, showcasing the maritime history and its role in cod fishing.
3. Praça da República: The town’s central square, home to the Renaissance-style Misericórdia fountain, the old Town Hall, and several historic buildings.
4. Museu do Traje: Explore the region’s rich cultural heritage through its costume museum, showcasing the traditional attire and gold filigree work unique to the Minho region.
5. Cabedelo Beach: A spacious sandy beach located across the Lima River, ideal for relaxation and watersports, especially kite and windsurfing.

Tavira, Portugal: 

Tavira is a small riverside town in the east Algarve region of Portugal. The town has a rich history spanning the Phoenicians, the Romans, and the Moorish period.

Tavira is known for its historic riverside town, which blends many features of your more typical seaside resort with authentic Portuguese charm. The town is immaculate and pretty, perfect for relaxing and exploring.

Best Things to Do in Tavira, Portugal:

1. Tavira Island (Ilha de Tavira): A stunning barrier island with pristine beaches, accessible by ferry, and a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming.
2. Tavira Castle: Explore the remnants of this Moorish castle, which offers panoramic views over the town and the surrounding landscape.
3. Roman Bridge: An ancient structure crossing the Gilão River, connecting the two halves of the town, though its actual age and origin are subjects of debate.
4. Santa Maria do Castelo Church: A significant historical church, built on the site of a former mosque, and houses the tombs of seven Christian knights killed during the Reconquista.
5. Camera Obscura: Located in the old water tower, it provides a unique 360-degree bird’s-eye view of Tavira using the principle of the camera obscura.

We hope this curated list of best places to visit in Portugal has stirred your wanderlust and sparked your curiosity . 

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