50 places to see in Portugal
Portugal is a beautiful country with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Portugal has something for every sort of traveller, from the rolling hills of the Douro Valley to the magnificent beaches of the Algarve. The country also has a plethora of historic attractions, ranging from Roman ruins to Gothic monasteries.
It has attractive villages and cities that display Portugal’s distinct blend of European and Moorish influences. This guide will take you to 50 places to see in Portugal, from the magnificent coastline of Lagos to the snow-capped mountains of Serra da Estrela and the prehistoric rock art of Coa Valley. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover.
Furthermore, if you’re planning a trip to Portugal, it’s important to know what you want to see and do in this beautiful country. This list will provide you with a glimpse into the country’s diverse and captivating attractions, so you can start planning your itinerary.
Lisbon’s historic center
First in our list of 50 places to see in Portugal is The historic centre of Lisbon is a mesmerising site that provides tourists with a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural legacy. The historic center’s neighbourhoods are full of character and charm, from the small lanes of Alfama to the posh boutiques of Chiado. The Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, and the Lisbon Cathedral are all must-sees, each offering a distinct view into the city’s past. Meanwhile, the booming nightlife scene in Bairro Alto and the bustling shopping district in Baixa give this ancient destination a modern twist. Lisbon’s historic centre is a must-see for any traveller, with so much to see and do.
Sintra and its fairy tale castles
Sintra is a charming town located in Portugal, filled with magical and mysterious castles straight out of a fairy tale. The most famous of these castles is the colorful Pena Palace, which is perched on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Other notable castles include the Castle of the Moors and the National Palace of Sintra.
The Douro Valley’s vineyards and river cruises
The Douro Valley is a stunning region of Portugal noted for its gorgeous vineyards and lovely river cruises down the Douro River. Visitors can sample the region’s famous port wine, stroll through picturesque towns, and gaze out over the valley’s terraced hillsides. A river cruise is the ideal way to enjoy this breathtaking location.
The Algarve’s golden beaches and cliffs
The Algarve is a beautiful region in southern Portugal known for its golden beaches and spectacular cliffs. Visitors can unwind on the sandy beaches, discover hidden coves, and take in the breathtaking views of the craggy coastline. The area is also recognised for its picturesque towns, delectable seafood, and world-class golf courses. It is one of our top picks for 50 places to see in Portugal.
Porto’s Ribeira district and wine cellars
The Ribeira district is a charming and historic neighborhood in the city of Porto, Portugal, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the area’s many cafes, restaurants, and shops, and take a tour of the nearby wine cellars, where they can sample the region’s famous port wine. Porto indeed make its top spots in the list of 50 places to see in Portugal.
Évora’s Roman ruins and medieval architecture
Évora is a beautiful city in Portugal’s Alentejo region, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and medieval architecture. Visitors can explore the impressive Roman Temple of Évora, the Gothic Cathedral of Évora, and the charming streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses. The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine, including hearty stews and local wines.
Coimbra’s ancient university and libraries
Coimbra is a historic city in central Portugal that is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. The University of Coimbra was founded in 1290 and features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and impressive libraries with rare manuscripts and books. Visitors can explore the campus and learn about the university’s rich history and traditions.
Guimarães’ medieval streets and castle
Guimares is a lovely northern Portuguese city famous for its well-preserved mediaeval streets and fortress. Visitors can visit the historic centre, which is dotted with traditional residences and businesses, as well as the majestic Guimares Castle, which dates back to the 10th century. In addition, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a centre for traditional Portuguese handicrafts.
Tomar’s Templar castle and convent
Tomar is a charming village in central Portugal notable for its Templar castle and convent. Built in the 12th century, the Castle of Tomar has spectacular architecture, exquisite gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The neighbouring Convent of Christ, with its Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings and rich history as a Templar stronghold, is also a must-see among 50 places to see in Portugal.
Vila Nova de Gaia’s Port wine cellars
Vila Nova de Gaia, located in northern Portugal across the river from Porto, is well-known for its Port wine cellars. Visitors can take a tour of the historic vaults, learn about the production process, and drink some of the best Port wines in the world. In addition, the town provides breathtaking views of Porto’s historic centre and the Douro River.
Madeira’s lush gardens and levadas
Madeira, a Portuguese island off the African coast, is famous for its lush gardens and levadas. The island’s subtropical temperature and volcanic soil are ideal for a wide range of exotic plants and flowers. Visitors can also take use of the island’s large network of levadas, or irrigation channels, which provide picturesque hiking trails across the mountains and forests.
Funchal’s market and historic district
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, boasts a bustling market and historic district. The Mercado dos Lavradores is a must-visit, with its colorful stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts. The nearby historic district features narrow streets lined with traditional houses, museums, and churches, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.
Pena Palace in Sintra
Pena Palace is a bright and fanciful palace in Sintra, Portugal. It was built in the nineteenth century and combines Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance architectural elements. The palace is a famous tourist site due to its bright yellow and red facade, elaborate embellishments, and excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point
Cabo da Roca, on Portugal’s western coast, is recognised as Europe’s westernmost point. The craggy cliffs, crashing waves, and breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean make it a popular tourist and hiking destination. A lighthouse and a monument mark the boundary between land and sea. It is one of the unique experiences in 50 places to see in Portugal.
Bairro Alto’s nightlife in Lisbon
Bairro Alto is a lively neighborhood in Lisbon famous for its vibrant nightlife. The narrow streets are lined with bars, restaurants, and clubs, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. From traditional Fado music to electronic beats, Bairro Alto offers something for everyone to enjoy until the early hours of the morning.
Belem Tower in Lisbon
Belem Tower is a historic monument located in Lisbon, Portugal. Built in the 16th century, it served as a fortress to protect the city from invaders. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the Tagus River and surrounding area.
Alfama’s winding streets in Lisbon
Lisbon’s twisting lanes of Alfama is a historic district in Lisbon famed for its meandering lanes, colourful buildings, and breathtaking city vistas. It is a well-liked destination for tourists who want to discover more about the city’s fascinating cultural history.
Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon
The Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon’s Belém area is an outstanding example of Manueline architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the early 16th century as a tribute to the Portuguese explorers who were so influential during the Age of Discovery. The monastery’s outside features nautical themes, while its interior features magnificent carvings and brickwork. Visitors can also visit the grave of the great Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, which is located within the monastery. Vasco da Gama mapped the sea route to India.
São Jorge Castle in Lisbon
The So Jorge Castle is an ancient stronghold on a hilltop in Lisbon, Portugal. It is a renowned tourist destination because it provides spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.
Ria Formosa Natural Park in the Algarve
Ria Formosa Natural Park is a magnificent coastal lagoon system in Portugal’s Algarve region. It has a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, and visitors can explore its gorgeous beaches and islets.
Lagos’ stunning coastline and beaches
Lagos, a charming town in Portugal’s western Algarve, is well-known for its breathtaking coastline and lovely beaches. The community is home to a number of immaculate beaches with glistening waves, fine sands, and striking rock formations. Praia do Camilo, Meia Praia, and Praia Dona Ana are some of Lagos’ most well-known beaches. Swimming, snorkelling, surfing, and other water sports are available to visitors. They can also take a boat excursion to see the breathtaking grottos and caverns along the shoreline.
Sagres’ fortress and lighthouse
Sagres’s fortress and lighthouse On Portugal’s southwestmost point, facing the Atlantic Ocean, are the fortress and lighthouse of Sagres. Due to the fortification’s construction in the fifteenth century and the lighthouse’s construction in the nineteenth, the area is well-known as a tourist destination.
Almourol Castle on the Tagus River
On the Tagus River, there is the Almourol Castle. Almourol Castle is a mediaeval fortification in Portugal that is located on a tiny island in the middle of the Tagus River, near the town of Vila Nova da Barquinha. It is regarded as one of the country’s most famous and attractive castles, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Monsanto’s hilltop village and castle
Hilltop village and castle of Monsanto The hilltop village and castle owned by Monsanto are a well-liked tourist attraction in Portugal because of the breathtaking views and elaborate design. Visitors can get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the nation at the castle, which was built in the 12th century.
Obidos’ medieval town and castle walls
The mediaeval village of Obidos and its castle walls are must-see attractions in Portugal. The tiny lanes and whitewashed cottages of the town are beautiful, and the castle walls provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can walk along the town’s walls and discover ancient structures such as the Santa Maria Church and the Porta da Vila gate. The town is also well-known for its cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, which can be found at local bars.
Costa Nova’s striped houses and beaches
Costa Nova’s striped houses are a renowned tourist destination in Portugal, recognised for their colourful façade and distinctive construction. The town also has lovely beaches, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking for both culture and relaxation. It is indeed a nice place to visit and makes its place in 50 places to see in Portugal
Santa Maria da Feira’s castle and medieval fair
The castle of Santa Maria da Feira is a well-preserved mediaeval stronghold dating from the 11th century. A moat surrounds the castle, which includes spectacular towers and battlements. Feira Mediaeval de Santa Maria da Feira, an annual mediaeval fair, attracts tourists from all over the world. Historical reenactments, jousting tournaments, and traditional food and crafts are all part of the fair. It’s a fantastic chance to travel back in time and experience the mediaeval age firsthand.
Viana do Castelo’s Basilica and historic center
Viana do Castelo is a charming town in northern Portugal with a fascinating history and stunning architecture. The Basilica de Santa Luzia, a beautiful hilltop church with panoramic views of the town and the Lima River, is the town’s showpiece. The ancient centre of Viana do Castelo is well worth a visit, with attractive alleys lined with traditional houses and vibrant squares filled with cafes and restaurants. The town’s exquisite houses and monuments, such as the Republic Square and the former Customs House, are also worth a look.
Aveiro’s canals and colorful boats
The Aveiros canals and colourful boats are a big draw for visitors to the city. The canals offer a unique way to learn about the city and its history, while the brilliantly painted boats lend a vivid touch to the already beautiful surroundings.
Serra da Estrela’s snow-capped mountains and skiing
With peaks soaring above 6,500 feet, Serra do Estrela is Portugal’s tallest mountain range. During the winter, the mountains are covered in snow, making it a popular destination for skiing and other winter activities. Within the range is also the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, which has beautiful views, hiking trails, and opportunities to see wildlife such as ibex and wolves. Visitors can also explore mediaeval towns and eat Queijo da Serra, the region’s famous sheep’s milk cheese.
Douro River’s cruises and vineyards
One of Portugal’s most gorgeous areas is the Douro River, which is well-known for its picturesque valleys, terraced vineyards, and old towns. A river cruise is one of the greatest ways to see the area because it provides breathtaking views of the surroundings and the chance to visit wineries and sample the region’s well-known Port wine. The villages along the river can also be explored, such as Pinho, which boasts a lovely train station decorated with classic azulejo tiles, and Peso da Régua, the hub of the area’s wine production. The Douro Valley is a must-visit location for wine enthusiasts and anybody interested in discovering Portugal’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Coa Valley’s prehistoric rock art
The prehistoric rock art at Coa Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, extends back thousands of years. The website showcases a variety of engraved and painted representations of people, animals, and abstract shapes.
Sinagoga de Tomar, the oldest synagogue in Portugal
The oldest synagogue in Portugal is located in Tomar and was constructed in the 15th century under King Manuel I. The synagogue, which has a lovely fusion of Gothic and Mudéjar architecture, is a monument to Portugal’s extensive Jewish past.
Viseu’s cathedral and historic center
The cathedral at Viseu is a striking structure that mixes Romanesque, Gothic, and Manueline architectural elements. The city’s historic district is especially interesting to explore because it has quaint streets and classic structures.
Monsanto’s Idanha-a-Velha’s Roman ruins
The lovely village of Monsanto is well-known for the restored Roman ruins near Idanha-a-Velha. The historic town is open for exploration and features a stunning Roman amphitheatre and a cathedral from the 12th century.
Grutas de Mira de Aire, underground caves
The network of underground caves known as Grutas de Mira de Aire provides a singular and intriguing experience. Stalactites, stalagmites, underground rivers, and lakes can all be explored by tourists.
Castelo de Vide’s Jewish Quarter and castle
The Alentejo region’s picturesque town of Castelo de Vide has a Jewish Quarter and a grand castle. The town’s historic legacy is reflected in its small streets and classic architecture.
Marvão’s hilltop castle and views
The hilltop castle of Marvo features well-preserved mediaeval architecture as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The town is an excellent place to visit for anyone interested in history or who wants to view Portugal’s stunning natural scenery.
Conímbriga’s Roman ruins and mosaics
Visitors visiting Portugal can get a look into the lengthy history of the Roman Empire at the Conmbrigas Roman ruins and mosaics. The site includes beautiful mosaics that display the artistic prowess of the ancient Romans, as well as well-preserved buildings like a forum, aqueduct, and thermal baths.
Braga’s Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary
The Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary in Braga is a magnificent Baroque structure that features a grand staircase, fountains, and gardens. Both tourists and religious pilgrims enjoy visiting the sanctuary.
Vila Real’s Mateus Palace and gardens
The Mateus Palace and Gardens in Vila Real are a remarkable example of Baroque architecture and provide breathtaking views of the surroundings. Visitors can stroll around the vast gardens and admire the palace’s magnificent interiors.
Amarante’s historic center and bridge
The ancient centre and bridge of Amarante are a wonderful location in northern Portugal with a fascinating past and stunning architecture. Traditional cafes and eateries adorn the town’s charming streets and bustling squares.
Fátima’s shrine and basilica
Fátima’s shrine and basilica are a favourite stop for religious tourists from all over the world. It has a connection to the 1917 Marian apparitions and is well-known for its stunning architecture and sacred artwork.
Alcobaça’s Gothic monastery
The Gothic monastery in Alcobaça is one of Portugal’s most outstanding monastic structures and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is home to stunning artwork and architecture, as well as the well-known tombs of King Pedro I and his girlfriend, Inês de Castro.
Batalha’s Gothic monastery
An important historical site and UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Gothic monastery of Batalhas in Portugal. To honour Portugal’s triumph over Castile in the Battle of Aljubarrota, it was constructed in the 14th century.
Nazaré’s surfing and beach culture
Both tourists and locals enjoy visiting Nazaré because of its surfing and beach lifestyle. The area has stunning beaches, a bustling nightlife, and chances for water activities, including some of the greatest surfing waves in the world.
Foz Côa’s prehistoric rock carvings
The prehistoric rock carvings at Foz Côa are among the most important archaeological sites in Europe. They include a variety of thousands of years old etched and painted representations of animals and people.
Azeitão’s wine and cheese production
The picturesque town of Azeito, which is located in the Setbal region, is well-known for producing wine and cheese. Visitors can tour the town’s wineries and sample local delicacies like the Azeito cheese and Moscatel wine.
Mafra’s baroque palace and convent
Built in the 18th century, the baroque palace and monastery at Mafra are among Portugal’s most stunning and extravagant architectural achievements. The palace has more than 1,200 rooms, a huge library with more than 36,000 books, an incredible basilica, a library, and royal apartments. and has a wildlife park and lovely plants all around it.
São Miguel Island’s Azorean landscapes and hot springs.
The largest island in the Azores archipelago, So Miguel Island, is well-known for its natural splendour and hot springs. In addition to relaxing in the warm natural pools and hot springs, visitors can explore the island’s breathtaking surroundings, which include its volcanic crater lakes, waterfalls, and lush woods.
enjoy this list of 50 places to see in Portugal and select whatever suits you.
Also Visit Official Portugal Tourism website www.visitportugal.com
