12 Ultimate Places to Visit in Portugal for an Unforgettable Trip

From golden beaches and vibrant cities to ancient castles and lush vineyards, Portugal is a dream destination for travelers seeking diversity and charm. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Lisbon, marveling at the fairytale palaces of Sintra, or soaking up the sun along the Algarve’s dramatic coastline, Portugal offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every type of adventurer. In this guide, we’ll uncover 12 must-visit destinations that showcase the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique charm, ensuring you make the most of your Portuguese journey.

1. Lisbon
2. Belém – Trip From Lisbon
3. Sintra – Trip From Lisbon
4. Cascais – Trip From Lisbon
5. Sagres – Algarve
6. Lagos – Algarve
7. Albufeira – Algarve
8. Faro – Algarve
9. Ericeira
10. Porto
11. Aveiro
12. Évora

1

Lisbon

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and a city rich in history, culture, and beautiful viewpoints.

• Rich History and Culture: Lisbon is known for its vibrant culture and rich history, with landmarks such as the São Jorge Castle.
• Stunning Architecture: The city features a mix of Gothic, Manueline, Baroque, and Modernist styles, especially seen in its historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Baixa. The intricate azulejos (ceramic tiles) and colorful buildings are also a signature feature.
• Gastronomy: Lisbon’s food scene is thriving, with visitors enjoying local delicacies like pastéis de nata (custard tarts) and fresh seafood dishes.
• Beautiful Scenery: Lisbon’s location on the coast, with its stunning views of the Tagus River and numerous miradouros (viewpoints), makes it a visually striking city. 
• Vibrant Nightlife: Lisbon has a lively nightlife scene, from bars and clubs in the Bairro Alto district to Fado music performances, which reflect the soul of Portuguese culture.

2

Belém – Day Trip from Lisbon

Belém is a popular day trip from Lisbon, famous for its historical monuments, maritime history, and of course, the world-renowned Pastéis de Belém. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and foodies alike.

• Belém Tower: One of the most famous monuments in Portugal, this fortress once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor.
• Jerónimos Monastery: A stunning example of Manueline architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India.
• Monument to the Discoveries: A tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration, this impressive monument overlooks the Tagus River.
• Pastéis de Belém: Taste the original custard tarts at the famous bakery that has been serving them since 1837.

3

Sintra – Day Trip from Lisbon

Sintra is also one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon, known for its fairytale-like palaces, lush gardens, and beautiful landscapes. It’s a magical place that feels like stepping into another world, just a short train ride away from the capital.

• Palácio da Pena: This colorful, hilltop palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
• Quinta da Regaleira: A mystical estate with hidden tunnels, spiraling wells, and stunning gardens, perfect for exploring and getting lost in the enchantment.
• Lush Nature: Sintra is surrounded by the beautiful Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, perfect for hiking and exploring.
• Historic Charm: Wander through Sintra’s charming town center, filled with traditional cafés, shops, and beautiful architecture.

What to Do: For tips on how to make the most of your visit to Sintra, take a look at my Sintra Travel Guide: Top 6 Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal.

4

Cascais – Day Trip from Lisbon

Cascais is a beautiful coastal town just outside of Lisbon, known for its stunning beaches, elegant promenades, and vibrant marina. It’s a perfect day trip for those looking to relax by the sea or explore a charming seaside village.

• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the golden sands of Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Vibrant Marina: The Cascais Marina is full of life with restaurants, cafés, and shops, offering lovely views of the boats and sea.
• Charming Old Town: Explore the narrow streets of Cascais’ historic center, filled with boutique shops, local markets, and traditional Portuguese restaurants.

5

Sagres – Algarve

Sagres is a peaceful coastal town located at the southwestern tip of Portugal, known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and world-class surf spots.

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Sagres is known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. 
• World-Class Surfing: It is a top destination for surfers due to its consistent waves and variety of surf spots. 
• Rich Maritime History: Sagres played a significant role in Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.
• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: With its breathtaking coastal trails, Sagres is a great destination for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Compared to other parts of the Algarve, Sagres has a laid-back, peaceful vibe. Its small-town feel makes it ideal for those looking to escape the busier tourist hotspots and enjoy quiet beaches and friendly local culture.

Best Time to Visit: Between May and October with ideal weather for outdoor activities.

How to Get There: 1.5 hours car ride from Faro and about 40 minutes by bus from Lagos.

Where to Stay: Near the town center or along the coast for easy access to beaches.

Budget Tip: Skip the rental car and use public buses from nearby towns or rent a bike to explore the area.

Stay connected! Follow us on social media for exclusive content & updates on our travels.

On our website, you’ll find all the essential information and tips, while on our social media, you’ll get even more – including personal experiences, funny moments, stunning videos, and much more!

6

Lagos – Algarve

Lagos is one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve for its stunning beaches, water sports, and lively atmosphere.

• Breathtaking Beaches: Lagos is renowned for its stunning coastline, featuring beaches like Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo, which are surrounded by dramatic cliffs and clear turquoise waters. 
• Historical Charm: The old town of Lagos is rich in history, with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and landmarks such as the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira and the Slave Market Museum (one of Europe’s first slave markets), which offer insights into the town’s past during the Age of Discoveries.
• Ponta da Piedade: This natural wonder, a series of towering cliffs and grottoes, is a must-see. Visitors often take boat tours or kayak to explore its hidden caves and enjoy stunning views of the coastline.
• Vibrant Nightlife: Lagos is known for its lively nightlife, especially during the summer. Bars, restaurants, and clubs in the old town attract a young crowd looking to enjoy live music, great food, and drinks.
• Outdoor Adventures: Lagos is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and boat tours. Its rugged coastline is ideal for exploring by sea.

Best Time to Visit: May to September (perfect beach weather)

How to Get There: A 1.5-hour drive from Faro Airport or take a bus/train from Faro.

Where to Stay: Lagos offers a mix of budget-friendly hostels, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts.

Budget Tip: For cheaper accommodation, consider staying just outside the city center.

7

Albufeira – Algarve

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Albufeira is the best party destination in southern Portugal.

• Beautiful Beaches: Albufeira is known for its golden-sand beaches, such as Praia dos Pescadores and Praia da Oura, which attract visitors for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. 
• Vibrant Nightlife: Albufeira is famous for its energetic nightlife, especially in the “Strip” area in Montechoro and in the Old Town. Bars, clubs, and restaurants create a lively atmosphere for party-goers, particularly during the summer months.
• Old Town Charm: The historic center of Albufeira offers cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and traditional Portuguese architecture.
• Central Algarve Location: Albufeira’s location makes it a great base to explore the rest of the Algarve, with easy access to day trips to nearby towns like Lagos.

Best Time to Visit: June to September (high season for parties)

How to Get There: A 45-minute drive from Faro or accessible by bus/train.

Where to Stay: The Strip area is ideal if you want to be close to the nightlife.

Budget Tip: Bring cash as many bars and restaurants take cash only.

8

Faro – Algarve

Faro is the gateway to the Algarve region and offers a calm, relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after exploring Portugal’s bustling cities.

• Cultural and Historical Attractions: Faro is rich in history, with its Old Town (Cidade Velha) featuring cobblestone streets, historic churches like the Cathedral of Faro, and landmarks such as the Arco da Vila.
• Less Touristy Beaches: While Albufeira and Lagos have bustling beaches, Faro offers quieter spots like Praia de Faro, where visitors can relax in a more serene setting.
• Traditional Portuguese Vibe: Faro is less tourist-driven than other Algarve cities, which means visitors can experience a more authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Enjoy local cuisine, visit traditional markets, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.
• Gateway to the Algarve: Faro is often the entry point for travelers arriving at Faro Airport. From here, it’s easy to explore the rest of the Algarve, making it a convenient hub for day trips to other nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit: April to October (beach weather)

How to Get There: It is possible to fly into Faro Airport, the only airport in the Algarve, located just outside the city.

Where to Stay: Choose from cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels in the city center. For a more affordable option, stay in Olhão, just a 15-minute drive from Faro’s center.

Budget Tip: Visit in the shoulder season (April or October) for fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices.

9

Ericeira

Ericeira is a small fishing town turned into a surfer’s paradise, known for its charming atmosphere and stunning coastline. It’s the only World Surfing Reserve in Europe, making it a must-visit for surfers and beach lovers.

• Surfing Capital: Ericeira is famous for its incredible surfing conditions, with consistent waves that attract surfers from all over the world.
• Beautiful Beaches: From Praia do Sul to Ribeira d’Ilhas, the beaches are pristine and perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
• Traditional Fishing Village: Despite its growing popularity, Ericeira retains the charm of a traditional fishing town with cobbled streets and local seafood restaurants.
• Vibrant Food Scene: The town is filled with restaurants offering fresh seafood, with specialties like grilled fish and octopus.
• Laid-back Vibes: Whether you’re surfing or just soaking up the sun, Ericeira’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind.

Best Time to Visit: April to October (for beach weather and surfing)

How to Get There: A 45-minute drive or bus ride from Lisbon.

Where to Stay: There are numerous surf hostels, boutique hotels, and guesthouses along the coastline.

Budget Tip: Stay in surf hostels to save money and meet other travelers.

10

Porto

Porto is a city known for its wine, but it also has a rich cultural and historical heritage that’s worth exploring.

• Historic Charm and Architecture: Porto is known for its stunning Ribeira District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colorful buildings along the Douro River. 
• Wine and Port Tasting: Porto is famous for its Port wine, and visitors flock to the city to tour the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river.
• Iconic Bridges and the Douro River: The city is home to the impressive Dom Luís I Bridge, offering stunning views of Porto and the Douro River. Boat tours along the Douro are a popular way to explore the scenic beauty of the region.
• Beautiful Parks and Gardens: Porto offers lovely green spaces such as the Crystal Palace Gardens and Serralves Park, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s urban bustle while offering panoramic views of the river and the city.

Best Time to Visit: May to September (warm weather and great for sightseeing)

How to Get There: Fly into Porto Airport or take a 3-hour train from Lisbon.

Where to Stay: Ribeira and Cedofeita are great areas to stay, offering both budget and luxury accommodations.

Budget Tip: Porto is more affordable than Lisbon, so take advantage of budget-friendly dining options.

11

Aveiro

Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a charming city with picturesque canals and a laid-back vibe.

• Canals and Gondolas: Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is famous for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Visitors enjoy boat tours through the city’s waterways, offering a unique way to explore Aveiro’s charming architecture and vibrant streets.
• Art Nouveau Architecture: Aveiro is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, which line the streets and canals. 
• Beaches and Lagoons: Just a short drive from the city, Aveiro offers access to beautiful beaches like Costa Nova and Barra Beach, famous for their striped beach houses and long sandy shores. 
• Local Cuisine and Ovos Moles: Aveiro is famous for its unique dessert, ovos moles, a sweet treat made from eggs and sugar, often shaped into sea-inspired designs. The city is also known for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants offering traditional Portuguese dishes.

Best Time to Visit: May to September (pleasant weather for boat rides and beach visits)

How to Get There: A 1-hour train ride from Porto or a 2.5-hour train from Lisbon.

Where to Stay: Stay in the city center for easy access to the canals and local attractions.

Budget Tip: Explore the city on foot or by renting a bike to avoid transportation costs.

12

Évora

Évora is a hidden gem in Portugal, offering a quieter, more authentic experience with its well-preserved Roman history and charming atmosphere.

• Historical Landmarks: Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with history. Visitors come to see one of the most unique attractions in the country, the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), which is lined with human bones.
• Well-Preserved Medieval Architecture: The city is known for its well-preserved medieval walls, ancient aqueduct, and Gothic churches. Strolling through Évora’s narrow streets is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Portugal’s past.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Évora has been home to many different civilizations, including the Romans, Moors, and Portuguese royalty, giving the city a rich blend of cultural influences. The University of Évora, founded in 1559, is also one of the oldest universities in Portugal, and its historical significance adds to the city’s charm.

Best Time to Visit: March to May (spring) or September to October (fall) when the weather is mild.

How to Get There: A 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon or accessible by train.

Where to Stay: Choose from charming guesthouses and boutique hotels in the historic center.

Budget Tip: Explore Évora on foot to save on transportation costs and soak in the charm of the city.

Don’t want to miss out on our latest articles? Be sure to subscribe to our website, and you’ll receive a notification every time we publish something new!