Top 11 places to visit in Portugal

Some countries take a bit of effort to explore – complicated transport, endless travel admin and unpredictable weather. Portugal is not one of them. It’s the kind of place where everything seems effortless: great transport, helpful and welcoming locals, and a climate that offers plenty of sunshine all year round.  The trickiest bit is deciding whether to indulge in another pastéis de nata or a second glass of port!

As well as being easy to navigate, Portugal is wonderfully varied. The Douro Valley offers rolling hills and wine tastings. Cities such as Lisbon and Porto serve up historic streets and impressive landmarks. While the Algarve boasts golden beaches and rugged cliffs. For something truly otherworldly, the Azores offer hot springs, volcanic craters, and unspoilt landscapes.

The hardest part? Choosing which bits to visit. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top 11 Portuguese destinations in this guide, along with our carefully crafted multi centre itineraries to help you explore the very best of this fascinating country.

 

Portugal in a nutshell:

Lisbon: Cobbled streets, iconic yellow trams, panoramic views and lots of custard tarts!

Sintra: Magical palaces, mystical wells and enchanting gardens.

Cascais: Relaxed coastal town with stunning beaches, rich history, and natural wonders.

Porto: Riverside charm, historic architecture, and famous port wine lodges.

Évora: Roman ruins, medieval architecture, haunting Chapel of Bones and a laid-back atmosphere.

The Azores: Volcanic archipelago with dramatic landscapes, geothermal springs and whale watching.

The Algarve: Golden beaches, luxury resorts, hidden coves, water sports and nightlife.

The Douro Valley: Terraced vineyards, river cruises, scenic estates, and wine tastings.

Coimbra: Ancient university town on the banks of the Mondego River.

Aveiro: Winding canals, traditional moliceiro boats and Art Nouveau architecture.

Madeira: Lush island of tropical gardens, scenic levadas and rugged mountains.

 

 

Lisbon: Yellow trams & Custard Tarts

Lisbon is consistently ranked as one of Europe’s top tourist cities, thanks to its history, incredible food, and sun-soaked squares. As a city of seven hills, you’ll find great views at every turn – so make sure you pack your walking shoes.

Famous for its iconic yellow trams, the popular no. 28 route takes you through the historic Alfama district, a maze of winding alleys and lively bars, where traditional fado music spills out onto the streets. For the best views in town, Castelo de São Jorge offers panoramas over the red-tiled rooftops and the sparkling Tagus River in the distance. Nearby, Lisbon Cathedral is a must-visit, with its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture.

For something different, head to Belém, just outside the city centre. Here you’ll find the Torre de Belém, a fortress that has guarded Lisbon’s shores for centuries.  The nearby Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts intricate stonework and towering arches.  It was once home to Portugal’s most famous explorers, including Vasco da Gama whose tomb lies within the monastery. And of course, no visit to Belém is complete without a stop at Pastéis de Belém – where the world-famous, incredibly addictive pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) are baked to perfection.

As the sun sets, the Bairro Alto is the place to be as it comes alive with its buzzing nightlife and lively bars.

 

Sintra: Magical Palaces & Secret Wells

If Walt Disney had designed cities, it would be Sintra. Just a short train ride from Lisbon, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a popular day trip from the capital – and for good reason. It’s a place of magical palaces, hidden underground tunnels, and a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

Perched high on the hill, Pena Palace is a mix of Moorish, Renaissance, and Gothic styles, brought together in a cacophony of colour. From its terraces, the panoramic views alone make the climb worthwhile.

A short walk away, the Moorish Castle offers even more breathtaking views, along with a dose of medieval history. Nearby, Quinta da Regaleira is a stunning palace with gothic towers, lush gardens, and hidden passageways that feel like they’ve leapt straight out of a fairy-tale book. It’s home to the famous Initiation Well, believed to be linked to secret societies such as the Knights Templar, though its true purpose remains a mystery.

Another must-see is Monserrate Palace, a peaceful escape from Sintra’s busier landmarks, with exotic gardens and an Indian-inspired palace.  Due to its popularity, it’s best to visit Sintra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to soak up the magic without the crowds.

 

Cascais: Coastal Charm & Historic Treasures

Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Cascais is the perfect coastal escape from the capital city and another popular day trip.  With its golden beaches including Praia da Rainha and Praia dos Pescadores, you can soak up sun, sip on a cocktail or enjoy splashing in the Atlantic’s waves in no time.

The pretty town centre is full of cobbled streets, quirky little cafes, and a touch of old-school charm. The marina also adds to the town’s appeal, offering stunning views of the boats and ocean and lots of waterfront restaurants to enjoy.  The Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell) is one of Cascais’ most striking natural wonders. It’s a rugged cliff formation where waves crash violently into the rocks below, creating a huge roar that echoes through the air – best experienced at high tide.  The Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães is an impressive mansion turned museum with a diverse range of collections and exhibits in its beautifully preserved rooms.  Just a short walk away is the historic Cascais Citadel, a fortress that once protected the town from pirates and invaders. Today it’s home to galleries, restaurants, and some great views of the coastline.

 

Porto: Riverside strolls & Azuelejo tiles

Porto, in the north of the country, may be a little rough around the edges compared to Lisbon, but that’s part of its charm. The Douro River winds through the city, and a boat trip offers a fantastic way to take in the views of the colourful houses and baroque churches along its banks.

At the heart of Porto is Ribeira, the city’s most historic quarter, where narrow, winding alleys lead past azulejo-covered buildings and little cafés. The riverfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge – designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel – stretching across the water.

Crossing the river, and you’ll find yourself in Vila Nova de Gaia, home to Porto’s legendary port lodges. Here, you can sip your way through tastings at world-famous names including Sandeman, Graham’s, and Taylor’s, all while learning about the centuries-old process of storing and ageing this iconic drink.

Back on the other side of the river, climb the 240 steps of Clérigos Tower for the best views in the city. Meanwhile, São Bento train station feels more like an art gallery than a transport hub, with its stunning azulejo tiles depicting scenes from Portugal’s history.

Book lovers will want to visit the Livraria Lello, a stunningly beautiful bookshop said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Hogwarts. And for the perfect sunset view, head to Miradouro da Vitória, where you can take in breath-taking panoramas of the city and Douro River – an ideal spot to stop for a drink and watch the city’s lights start to twinkle.

 

Évora: Roman Ruins & Lots of Bones

Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage site tucked away in the rolling plains of the Alentejo in Southern Portugal. It’s home to some incredibly well preserved Roman and medieval architecture and is a truly fascinating destination to explore.   It’s home to the Roman Temple of Diana, which has stood since the 1st century AD, and sits alongside the city’s cobbled streets and charming whitewashed buildings.

Évora’s biggest highlight though is the Chapel of Bones – a crypt lined with thousands of human skulls and femurs, built by 16th-century monks.  Above the entrance, a cheerful (!) sign reads: “We bones that are here, for yours we wait.” Maybe don’t take that bit to heart…!

Beyond its morbid side, Évora is a foodie’s paradise. The Alentejo region is famous for black pork (porco preto), slow-cooked lamb stews, and some of Portugal’s finest wines. One of the best ways to experience the city is to grab a glass of local wine, enjoy a traditional dish, and soak up Évora’s slow, relaxed pace of life.

 

The Azores – Volcanic Landscapes & Whales

In the middle of the Atlantic, around 900 miles from mainland Portugal, this volcanic archipelago is an outdoor lover’s paradise. With its otherworldly landscapes, rugged coastlines, and crater lakes, it feels like something straight out of Jurassic Park – minus the dinosaurs! Despite its natural beauty, the islands remain relatively untouched by mass tourism, making them perfect for enjoying unspoiled nature and great walks away from the crowds.

São Miguel is the largest island, home to the mesmerising twin lakes of Sete Cidades – one blue, one green – separated by a bridge. It’s also where you’ll find the geothermal hot springs and fumaroles of the Furnas Valley, where you can relax in the natural thermal pools and enjoy the slow-cooked the Cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked by volcanic steam.

But São Miguel is just the beginning. The Azores archipelago has nine islands, each with its own unique charm. Pico boasts Portugal’s tallest mountain, fantastic walking trails, and vineyards growing in black volcanic soil. Terceira is packed with history, home to the UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroísmo and vibrant, colourful streets. Faial is known for its marina, endless fields of hydrangeas, and dramatic volcanic scenery. While São Jorge offers dramatic cliffs and coastal plateaus, a paradise for walkers. For golden beaches and some of the warmest waters in the Azores, Santa Maria is the place to be.

The real highlight, though, has to be the incredible whale and dolphin watching. Thanks to its deep Atlantic waters, the Azores is one of the best places in the world to spot these magnificent creatures. Over 20 species, including sperm whales, blue whales, and playful dolphins, migrate through the region year-round. Boat tours run from São Miguel, Pico, and Faial, offering a truly magical experience that’s not to be missed.

 

The Algarve – Sun & Secret Coves

The Algarve is Portugal’s coastal paradise where the Atlantic Ocean meets dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and pretty towns. The resort of Quinta do Lago offers a taste of luxury with its pristine beaches, high-end resorts, and world-class golf courses. The nearby Vale do Lobo offers stunning villas, lots of restaurants and nightlife, and breath-taking views along its shores.

To the west of the region, the historic town of Lagos has a charming old town with cobbled streets and beautiful beaches such as Praia Dona Ana. For a quieter side of the Algarve, Porches and Sagres are great choices, offering a slower pace, picturesque streets, and hidden coves.  A short distance from Porches lies the stunning beach of Praia da Marinha.  Its crystal-clear waters and picturesque rock formations make it great for snorkelling and photography.  From here, you can access the famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a beautiful walking route that offers breath-taking views of the coastline, turquoise waters, rugged cliffs and coves.

One of the best ways to experience the Algarve is by hiring a car. Driving along the winding coastal roads, you’ll come across secluded coves and hidden beaches plus little fishing villages that offer a glimpse of the local life.

The Algarve is a paradise for water sports lovers, offering everything from surfing and kitesurfing to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding along its coastline. Golfers will also find plenty to love, with world-class courses set amidst the beautiful scenery – and distinctly better weather conditions than the UK!

 

The Douro Valley – Vineyards & Pretty Villages

The Douro Valley is a wine lover’s paradise surrounded by picture-perfect vineyards, hills dotted with charming villages, and the Douro River that winds its way through the region. Apart from its beautiful scenery, the main draw is wine tasting. There are numerous quintas (traditional wine estates) offering tours where you can sample a variety of ports while soaking up the views. Tours range from family-owned estates to world-renowned wineries so the choice is up to you as to how you drink your way around the area.

One of the prettiest places to stay in the valley is Pinhão, with its narrow streets lined with traditional houses and vibrant azulejos.  Other good options to base yourself while you indulge in wine-soaked bliss are Peso da Régua and Lamego.  If you’re looking to explore further, hop on a boat for a leisurely cruise down the Douro river, where you’ll get a different perspective of the terraced vineyards and steep hillsides that make this area so special.

 

Coimbra: Ancient University & Music

Coimbra is a university town, home to the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe. The university’s stunning baroque library, Biblioteca Joanina, is a must-see, with its grand architecture, gold-leafed ceilings, and rows of ancient books.

The Mondego River makes an ideal area for a stroll, where you can enjoy the views and the lively atmosphere created by the students in their distinctive, traditional black capes.  Other highlights include the Botanical Garden, with its diverse plant species and lots of quiet spots to relax. As well as the Conímbriga Ruins, where you can explore the Roman remnants, including mosaics and ancient baths.  Coimbra is also famous for its version of Fado music.  Unlike what you may have heard in Lisbon, Coimbra’s Fado is more melancholic and performed by men who are students or alumni of the university.

 

Aveiro: Canals & Art Nouveau Architecture

Aveiro is a charming city known for its winding canals and stunning Art Nouveau architecture, often referred to as the Venice of Portugal. Instead of gondolas, locals use the traditional moliceiro boats to glide along the canals, passing landmarks such as the Mercado do Peixe and Ponte dos Ovos Moles, named after the city’s signature sweet treats.

The Museu de Aveiro, housed in a former monastery, showcases religious art and the tomb of Princess Joana. While the Museu Arte Nova allows you to learn more about the city’s distinctive architectural style. Beyond the canals, Aveiro offers beautiful beaches, including Praia da Costa Nova, famous for its colourful striped houses.

 

Madeira: Lush Gardens & Natural Beauty

Madeira is a lush, mountainous island, just a couple of hours’ flight from Lisbon or Porto. Funchal, the capital of Madeira, has a charming old town filled with narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and lots of lovely cafes. The Mercado dos Lavradores is a great place to pick up local produce or homemade crafts and to soak up the local life.  Sitting above the capital, Monte offers stunning panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding island and is accessible via a cable car ride. Once at the top, you can enjoy breath-taking views, explore the Madeira Botanical Garden, and visit the Monte Palace, home to a collection of Portuguese and African art. The city is also home to the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, dedicated to the island’s most famous footballer.

Outside the city, Madeira boasts a stunning countryside with highlights including the Pico do Arieiro which offers some fabulous walking trails that wind around the peak.  Cabo Girão is another must-visit. It’s one of the world’s highest sea cliffs, standing above the Atlantic Ocean, offering amazing views of the coastline below. The glass skywalk, which extends over the edge of the cliff, provides an unobstructed view of the dramatic drop to the sea and the lush landscapes surrounding it. Another highlight is the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore ancient woodlands and the famous levadas, which are historic irrigation channels that are now used as trails. Maderia also offers whale and dolphin watching off its coast via various tours. Alternatively, simply relax with a glass of Madeira’s renowned wine at a traditional cellar.

 

We’d love to help you plan your next adventure, so please get in touch, and one of our team will be ready to craft your perfect Portuguese getaway, tailored especially for you.