Best Places to Visit in Portugal

Age-old wine cellars, bedazzling urban sprawls, a unique culture influenced by the Atlantic: Portugal is every traveler’s dream destination.

Savor the Touristic Scene in Lisbon

The vibrant capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a cosmopolitan city that knows how to charm with tradition and modernity at the same time. Belem Tower is an immediate eye-catcher among the best places to visit in Portugal. It stands gracefully on the delta of River Tagus with its Late Gothic style. It is one of the two most precious UNESCO sites in Lisbon. Take your must-do shot here and head to the other one, the astounding Monastery of Jeronimos. Aside from its exquisite architecture, the monastery will satisfy your intellectual taste buds with its historical importance.

Visit its seafront promenade for the best of the Atlantic coast in terms of culinary delights and boundless entertainment. Bairro Alto is the beating heart of it all, where the music is intoxicating, drinks are galvanizing, and the social scene is as dynamic as it gets. Here, you will lose yourself in Lisbon’s almost unrivaled nightlife almost instantly.

Wind Down in Pretty Porto

Soul-soothing strolls on the riverside, tours in atmospheric Baroque churches, a delicious dinner in a culinary hotspot… These are only a few of the things you will experience in Porto. Douro River lends a unique luster to the city, which is home to a series of architectural highlights like the Clerigos Church. For the best of them, head to the picture-perfect Ribeira. It is one of the best places to visit in Portugal for the ultimate cultural scene. The riverfront district is a delight to explore on foot and is listed as a World Heritage Site. At heart, Porto is a town driven by ageless traditions that harvest the best of the prolific Iberian lands. Its soulful wineries offer time travel through taste, introducing one of the most authentic wine-making traditions. Head to one of the boutique wine houses in the center to revel in the exquisite ambiance.

visit Porto
visit Lagos

Head to the Beach in Lagos

Looking for the salty Atlantic spirit of Portugal? Lagos is the place to be. It is one of the best places to visit in Portugal to experience its famous Algarve region. Ponta de Piedade is where you will find the iconic limestone rock pillars and abysmal sea cliffs associated with Portugal. This is indisputably the most photogenic attraction in Laos. And, a day filled with beach fun awaits on its golden stretch of sand. In the meantime, the astonishing coast is not the only thing that contributes to the allure of Lagos. The town itself reverberates with the laid-back vibe of the Atlantic, offering travelers leisure combined with an impressively rich history. Explore the old town like a local to get a taste of its Moorish and Baroque jewels.

Must-See Sights in Portugal

Here is everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Portugal.

visit Porto

Porto

Home of the aromatic port wine and ageless traditions, the coastal paradise of Porto is a city where leisure is essential to the fabric of life.

Why You Should Visit:

Visit Porto for its rich history, picturesque streets, and world-famous port wine cellars.


Don’t Miss:

-Visit the historic district of Ribeira and take a walk along the Douro River.

-Tour the famous port wine cellars and taste the local wine.

-Visit the beautiful Palácio da Bolsa and the São Francisco Church.


Keep in Mind:

-Be prepared to do a lot of walking on the steep hills, so wear comfortable shoes.

-Don’t forget to try the port wine and local seafood.

-Take note of your surroundings and belongings, especially in touristy areas.

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Lisbon

Lisbon is Portugal’s capital city. Amazing cathedrals, museums, long dinners, friendly locals, lively nightlife… Welcome to the second oldest capital in Europe!

Why You Should Visit:

Experience the charm and vibrant culture of Lisbon, with its historic monuments, stunning viewpoints, and delicious food.


Don’t Miss:

-Explore the Alfama district, one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in the city.

-Take a tram ride through the narrow streets of the city to see the famous landmarks.

-Visit the famous Belém Tower and taste the traditional Portuguese pastry called pastel de nata.


Keep in Mind:

-Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the city’s hilly terrain.

-Be aware of pickpocketing and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

-Take advantage of the city’s public transportation options, including trams and buses.

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Lagos

You will fall in love with this warm seaside town offering Portuguese culture. This beautiful city with sandy beaches also offers a large variety of water sports.

Why You Should Visit:

Discover the stunning beaches, hidden coves, and breathtaking cliffs of Lagos, a popular destination for water sports and outdoor adventures.


Don’t Miss:

-Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Lagos, such as Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo.

-Take a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline and grottos.

-Visit the historic center of Lagos and see the old city walls and charming streets.

Keep in Mind:

-Sunscreen is a must-have when visiting the beaches.

-Be aware of the strong currents in the water and follow the lifeguard’s instructions.

-Plan your trip ahead of time, as Lagos can get crowded during peak tourist season.

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Portugal FAQ

How many days should I spend in Porto?

To fully explore Porto and its surrounding areas, it is recommended to spend at least three to four days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore the historic center, visit the wine cellars, take a boat ride on the Douro River, and enjoy the local food and wine. However, if you want to explore more of the Douro Valley or spend time at the beach, you may want to consider staying for five to seven days.

What are the top tourist attractions in Lisbon?

Lisbon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and for good reason. The city offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Some of the top tourist attractions in Lisbon include the Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, the Alfama neighborhood, the Sao Jorge Castle, and the Rossio Square. Visitors can also explore the city’s museums, indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine, and take a stroll through one of the many charming neighborhoods.

What is the food like in Portugal?

Portuguese cuisine is diverse and full of flavor. The country is known for its seafood, grilled meats, stews, and sweets. Some of the most popular dishes include Bacalhau (salt cod), Cozido (a meat and vegetable stew), Francesinha (a sandwich with meat, cheese, and sauce), and pastel de nata (a custard tart). Many dishes are served with rice or potatoes and often include fresh herbs and spices. Wine is also an essential part of Portuguese cuisine, and the country is famous for its Port wine from the Douro Valley. Visitors to Portugal can expect to have a delicious culinary experience with a variety of traditional dishes and new takes on classic recipes.

Is Portugal a safe country for tourists?

Yes, Portugal is generally considered a safe country for tourists. Like any other destination, visitors should exercise basic safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding displaying expensive items, and keeping an eye on their belongings. In Portugal, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in tourist areas, so it’s important to stay vigilant. Overall, violent crime is rare, and the country has a low crime rate. Portugal is known for its friendly and welcoming people, and tourists should feel comfortable exploring the country’s many attractions.

What is the nightlife like in Lisbon?

Lisbon has a vibrant nightlife that offers something for everyone, from traditional Fado music to trendy clubs and bars. The Bairro Alto neighborhood is one of the best areas for nightlife, with narrow streets lined with bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. The area around Cais do Sodré is also popular, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. For those looking for a more cultural experience, the Alfama neighborhood is known for its Fado music, a traditional style of Portuguese music. Many bars and restaurants in Alfama offer live Fado performances, providing visitors with a unique and authentic Portuguese experience.

What are the best wine regions to visit in Portugal?

Portugal is home to some of the most unique and flavorful wines in the world. One of the best regions to visit is the Douro Valley, located in northern Portugal. Here, you can explore the picturesque vineyards and taste the region’s famous port wine. Another popular wine region is Alentejo, located in the south-central part of the country, where you can sample rich red wines and crisp white wines. Finally, the Vinho Verde region, located in the northwest of Portugal, is known for its light, refreshing, and slightly effervescent wines. A visit to these wine regions offers a chance to taste some of the best wines in the world and learn about the fascinating history and culture of winemaking in Portugal.

What are the top festivals and events in Portugal?

Portugal is known for its rich cultural heritage and lively festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous festivals is the Carnaval, which takes place in several cities and towns throughout the country. Other popular events include the Festa de Sao Joao in Porto, where people celebrate with bonfires, fireworks, and traditional dances, and the Festa dos Tabuleiros in Tomar, which features a colorful procession of women carrying towering headdresses made of bread. Additionally, the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Agonia in Viana do Castelo and the Festival Internacional de Folclore in Albufeira are also noteworthy events that celebrate Portugal’s rich folklore and traditions.

What are the best places to go surfing in Portugal?

Portugal is a renowned surfing destination with numerous top-class surfing spots scattered along its coastline. Some of the best places to go surfing in Portugal include Nazaré, where you can ride some of the world’s biggest waves, Ericeira, a popular surfing town with consistent waves, and Peniche, home to the famous Supertubos beach break. Other great surfing spots include Sagres in the Algarve, which offers a wild and rugged coastline with diverse surf conditions, and Costa da Caparica near Lisbon, which is known for its long stretches of beach and variety of surf breaks suitable for all levels of surfers.

What are the best day trips from Lisbon?

Lisbon is surrounded by several beautiful destinations that make for excellent day trips. One popular option is Sintra, a picturesque town known for its fairy-tale palaces, lush gardens, and beautiful views. Another great choice is Cascais, a charming coastal town with excellent beaches, stunning architecture, and a bustling marina. For those interested in history, the town of Évora is a must-visit, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and medieval architecture. The fishing village of Sesimbra is also a popular day trip destination, with its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and scenic hiking trails.

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