19 Most Beautiful Places To Explore In Portugal

One of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, Portugal is filled affordable food and wine, ancient history and architecture and sun-drenched beaches. It’s also entered a new era of cool…from my many trips, here are my favourite spots I’d love to share with you…

1. Praia da Marinha

This beach is famous for a reason! I found golden cliffs framing a dreamy crescent of fine, golden sand, shimmering turquoise waters, and unique rock formations, with a backdrop of charming traditional Algarvian buildings. There was a mix of secluded tranquil spots as well as more crowded areas. 

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for warm waters and snorkelling).
• Activities on offer: snorkelling, exploring caves, swimming, boat tours.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star Jupiter Marina Hotel – Couples & Spa – I loved the rooftop infinity swimming pool, the cool rooftop beach sand, the Balinese beds, the Turkish bath and the chic modern interiors.
• Taking a unique and fun trip on a pirate ship – I really loved how it was a superb replica of a 16th-century pirate ship and how we got to gave sea cave exploring in their (slightly nerve-wracking) traditional wooden dinghies.

2. Lisbon

I thought the hilly Portuguese capital was such a gem of a place! It’s was also very easy-on-the-eye in a shabby chic kind of way with narrow, winding streets paved with traditional Portuguese cobblestones, colourful tile-clad buildings, quaint cafes, sublime views, Gothic cathedrals and majestic monasteries all set against the backdrop of sun-drenched beaches along the nearby coastline.

I loved how it had a bohemian vibe mixed in with traditional charm and a lively, youthful energy. I found it located on the western coast of the country, facing the Atlantic Ocean, at the mouth of the Tagus River. It dated back Roman times but today it’s home to around 505,000 people.

I stayed for a fun three days and explored the historic Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, rode the iconic Tram 28 through the picturesque neighbourhoods, gorged on pastéis de nata (a custard tart) in the locally famous Manteigaria pastry shop, discovered quirky street art in the bohemian Bairro Alto district, and took in incredible panoramic views from the city’s highest point, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

I also enjoyed the gorgeous views from São Jorge Castle, unwound in the lush gardens of Gulbenkian Museum, people-watched from alfresco coffee bars and checked out both the trendy and traditional restaurants. Pretty views seemed to pop up everywhere in this city – it almost felt unreal!

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for pleasant weather and fewer crowds).
• Activities on offer: sightseeing, riding vintage trams, exploring historic neighborhoods, tasting local cuisine.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the funky but glamorous 4-star Madalena by The Beautique Hotels – I loved the eclectic Insta-worthy design, the boutique vibe and the striking retro style pink oyster tiles! 

3. Cascais

I adored this sleepy little fishing village turned chic coastal resort! I thought it was very beautiful too with a scenic blend of sandy beaches and rugged coastlines dotted with elegant villas, historic forts, and a charming old town with cobbled streets and quaint cafes. To me, it felt both relaxed and intimate with an arty, upscale vibe and I really like the mix of the charm of a traditional fishing village with the sophistication of a cosmopolitan resort town. 

It turned out to be hidden away along the western coast of the country, just west of Lisbon, along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean on the Estoril Coast. It had a rich maritime history but I saw it was now a popular tourist destination with a population of around 214,000. 

I stayed here for a week at the very Insta-worthy and modern 4-star Legacy Hotel Cascais and it quickly became one of my favourite places in the country I strolled along the picturesque Bay of Cascais, visited the historic Santa Marta Lighthouse and Museum, and explored the rugged beauty of Boca do Inferno cliffs (my photo is above).

I also found time to relax on the sandy beaches of Praia da Rainha, discover the opulent interiors of the Castro Guimarães Museum, and dine in gorgeous restaurants in the gleaming marina which shimmered in the sunshine. 

Due to its exquisite scenery, I also loved how it was popular with artisans, writers, and artists and I personally discovered its remarkable selection of art, proudly displayed in The Conde de Castro Guimaraes Museum. 

• Location: western part of the country, near Lisbon.
• Best time to visit: summer (for enjoying the beaches and coastal views).
• Activities on offer: relaxing on beaches, visiting art museums, exploring coastal cliffs, yachting.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Wandering around the historic centre – I loved the delicate azulejo tile-inspired plates and stonewashed linen napkins embroidered with traditional patterns, the cosy taverns, the small art galleries and also meeting artists painting local sun-drenched scenes beside ivy-covered doorways.

4. The Algarve Region

Yes, it’s developed and touristy, but this place is popular for a reason! I personally thought it was a very beautiful place with golden cliffs, sprawling sandy beaches, hidden coves, and charming whitewashed villages with Moorish-influenced architecture, which glow under the warm Mediterranean sun. It has a leisurely laid-back holiday vibe which I saw livened up at night when the club seekers came out to play.

I discovered it located in the southernmost region of the country, and stretches along the country’s coastline from the border with Spain to the westernmost point of Cape St. Vincent. It had both Roman and Moorish influences, but today it’s home to around 451,000. Before my trip, I read that it’s actually one of the most visited spots in all of Europe – with around 7 million visitors a year! 

I stayed for a blissful two weeks and stayed one week in the dreamy 4 star boutique Central Monchique Hotel. I sunbathed on the stunning beaches of Praia da Marinha, Praia da Marinha Falesia Beach and Praia Da Cordoama, and watched surfers tackle the sturdy waves at Sagres.

I wandered the charming old streets of Tavira, hiked the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, while my partner teed off on Vilamoura’s world-class golf courses – and we both dived into Albufeira’s buzzing nightlife!

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for mild weather and fewer tourists).
• Activities on offer: sunbathing, golfing, dolphin watching, wine tasting.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Going on wine tasting at the dreamy centuries-old estate historic estate Morgado do Quintão – I especially loved the elegant tasting Clarete which was a light ruby-red wine made from the potent Negra Mole grape.

5. Porto

I thought this one eclectic and interesting city! It does have some edgier parts but it’s also very attractive with a mix of historic architecture, baroque churches, neoclassical buildings, quaint cobbled streets and a gorgeous Douro River setting. I was also charmed by is vibrant and artistic vibe! 

• Location: northwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for sightseeing in comfortable temperatures).
• Activities on offer: wine tasting, strolling along the riverside, exploring historic sites, boat tours.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on bruschetta, olives and a sweee caramel-flavoured Tawny Port at the Miradouro Ignez restaurant – I adored the deck where I gazed at the Porto’s red-tiled rooftops and the Douro River.

6. Douro Valley

This was such a tranquil beauty spot! I thought it was breathtakingly beautiful with striking vine-covered terraced vineyards, traditional quintas (wine estates), the winding Douro River and an enchanting vibe, all set against a backdrop of rugged hills and historic villages which have a rich port winemaking heritage.

It was such an outstanding and unspoilt area, with just a few roads zigzagging through the mountains and cruise boats gently gliding through the water that I admired how it was listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. 

I drove two hours from Porto and spent an idyllic three days at the very Insta-worthy 4-star Lamego Hotel & Life. I toured the historic wine estates (quintas) and went to tastings and on a vineyard tour, cruised along the serene and very pretty Douro River, cycled through the scenic landscapes and explored the small and charming villages of  Pinhão and Peso da Régua.

I also paid a visit to the Douro Museum and learnt about the region’s rich wine-making history and stopped by the exquisite Mateus Palace.

• Location: northern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for vineyard harvest season and scenic views).
• Activities on offer: wine tasting, boat cruises, hot air balloon rides, scenic train rides.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Going on a fun wine and food boat tour – I loved going past Ponte Maria Pia, an iron railway bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel and the port wine cellars while trying no less than three port wines accompanied by interesting stories of the region’s history.

7. Sintra

I thought this was such a romantic and picturesque place! It was stunning with its elaborate palaces, such as the ornate and turreted Pena Palace which sat alongside rugged, cliff-lined beaches, a misty dense forest and dramatic ocean views.

The vegetation here was lush and exotic due to having its own microclimate. To me, it felt magical and otherworldly, blending fairy-tale architecture with a touch of gothic mystique.

I spent two days here staying at the elegant and romantic 4-star boutique Chalet Saudade and explored the striking Pena Palace, wandered through the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira which had hidden tunnels and enchanting gardens, and visited the ancient Moorish Castle and seeing superb panoramic views.

I wandered through the grand halls of Sintra National Palace, unwound on the peaceful shores of Praia da Adraga and Praia das Maçãs, and tackled the green, winding trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for pleasant weather and blooming gardens).
• Activities on offer: visiting palaces, hiking, exploring gardens, tram rides.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a scenic ride on the Sintra Tram which took us from Sintra to the coastal area of Praia das Maçãs on a 45 minute journey – I really enjoyed seeing the gorgeous views of first the Sintra Mountains and then the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

8. Aveiro

I thought this was such a unique hidden gem! Known as the Portuguese Venice, I discovered a quaint beauty spot with Art Nouveau buildings, picturesque canals lined with brightly-coloured moliceiro boats and bridges and the nearby Praia da Costa Nova which was home to distinctive striped houses (pictured above). I was also taken in by its lively yet relaxed vibe.

I drove an hour from Porto and stayed three days at the very unique and Insta-worthy Barcos Casa Aveiro and enjoyed a colourful gondola-type moliceiro boat tour along the picturesque canals, and explored the interesting Art Nouveau Museum.

I also strolled along the colourful Costa Nova beach to see it’s iconic striped houses, tasted the local delicacy ovos moles (a traditional Portuguese pastry), and visited the nearby São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve to see interesting wildlife and serene landscapes.

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for boat rides along the canals and beach visits).
• Activities on offer: Moliceiro boat rides, exploring beaches, visiting Art Nouveau buildings, dining.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Dining on a delicious codfish and beans washed down with a divine Quinta Portal Reserva Douro white wines at the unique Michelin-star restaurant Salpoente – I loved how it was housed in former salt warehouse but was filled with a chic contemporary design.

9. Sagres

This remote small coastal town is fast becoming a hot spot! Popular with surfers, artists and increasingly with digital nomads, I discovered a stunning spot with secluded sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, sea-carved cliffs, a historic fortress, and dreamy ocean views.

It’s located in the Algarve but it was much less overdeveloped than the towns further east. To me, it had a secluded end-of-the-world feel with a cool, laid-back, bohemian vibe and I loved that it felt far away from the tourist masses. 

It was tucked away on the southwestern tip of the country, in the Algarve region, positioned on a headland that faced the Atlantic Ocean. Historically important as a navigation school in the 15th century, today I saw for myself that it was a small resort town with a population of around 1,900 people. It’s also known to be one of the best places to surf in Europe. 

I stayed here for an idyllic week at the modern 4-star design hotel Memmo Baleeir just kicking back and soaking up the vibes. I also visited the interesting Fortaleza de Sagres and learnt about the country’s maritime history, watched the surfers tackle the renowned waves at Mareta and Tonel Beaches, gazed at gorgeous sunsets at Cape St. Vincent (Europe’s southwesternmost point).

I also explored the lighthouse, hiked along dramatic cliff trails which had jaw-dropping ocean views, and spent time in the town browsing quirky cafés, indie boutiques, and cool organic eateries.

• Location: southwestern tip of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for great surfing conditions and fewer crowds).
• Activities on offer: surfing, exploring Cape Saint Vincent, relaxing on beaches, hiking.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Cafetaria Picnic Sagres which was my favourite cool little cafe – I went there frequently trying out their amazing crusty sourdough bread, smooth cortados, chilled glass of Portuguese pét-nat, and Letra C American Pale Ale while browsing their selection of trendy magazines!

10. Obidos

This is a captivating inland medieval town! I found a gem of a place with well-preserved medieval architecture, cobbled streets and traditional white houses adorned with bougainvillea, all enclosed within the walls of a 12th-century castle. I loved how it exuded a timeless, enchanting vibe as well as having sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

• Location: western-central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for festivals and exploring the historic streets).
• Activities on offer: exploring medieval streets, visiting the castle, shopping at boutiques, lagoon walks.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights…

• Exploring Rua Direita, a road filled with lots of boutiques and excellent restaurants – I especially loved the artisanal shops offering handmade crafts, including pottery, azulejo tiles, embroidered linens, and cork products, the cute bookshops and the stalls serving ginja, the region’s famous cherry liqueur served in edible chocolate cups!

11. Marvao

I thought this medieval hilltop village was really enchanting! It had a stunning hilltop location, medieval stone walls, narrow cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses, all crowned by a well-preserved 13th-century castle with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It had such a slow-paced and timeless vibe, I felt like I had stepped back in time to a more uncomplicated era.

I came across it in the remote Castelo de Vide and Portalegre which was only a few kilometres from Spain, it was perched on the highest peak of the Serra de São. I researched before my trip that it dated back to Roman times and had a key defensive role during the Reconquista, but today it’s a sleepy small town with around 3,500 residents.

I drove from Lisbon which took three hours and stayed overnight at the wonderful Dom Dinis Marvão (the views were just incredible)! I explored the 13th-century Marvão Castle which had stunning panoramic views and whiled away an hour just wandering through the charming cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses.

I also visited the Church of Santa Maria which now housed the Municipal Museum, enjoyed the serene beauty of Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, and admired the impressive ancient Roman bridge in nearby Portagem.

• Location: eastern part of the country, near the Spanish border.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for stunning views and cooler temperatures).
• Activities on offer: exploring castle ruins, hiking, visiting cultural centers, touring museums.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Visiting the Centro Cultural de Marvão, a well-preserved medieval fortress in the town – I really enjoyed seeing the interesting narrow slit windows designed for archery defence, the old rusting cannons, the ornate gardens filled with fragrant herbs and climbing roses surrounding it and the panoramic views over the Alentejo region’s rolling hills.

12. Salema

I thought this place was so unspoiled and underrated! It was a gorgeous spot – a sleepy fishing village filled with traditional whitewashed cottages located between two sharp cliffs and a glorious sandy beach stretching in between.

I appreciated that it was much less touristy and more under-the-radar compared to the busier Algarve hotspots. To me, it felt laid-back and like a genuine off-the-beaten-path coastal retreat.

I found it situated three hours South of the capital, near Cape Sagres and only around 400 people live here but it has roots dating back to Roman times. 

• Location: southwestern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for relaxing on the uncrowded beaches).
• Activities on offer: sunbathing, visiting marinas, boat tours, exploring cliffs.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Vila Luz – it was great to stay in the modern villa with contemporary styling in their gorgeous gardens surrounded by flowers and lush palm trees! I also loved dining on the terrace gorging on modern Portuguese cuisine while watching the sunset over the ocean.

13. Evora 

This UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city really wowed me! I thought it was a beautifully preserved gem with stunning medieval walls, Roman temple ruins, whitewashed houses which featured intricate ceramic tile work, and gorgeous Gothic architecture. 

I drove one and half hours from Lisbon and spent a weekend at the stunning and romantic boutique the CICIOSO boutique hotel and I wandered around the 16th-century Roman Temple and stepped inside the haunting Chapel of Bones with its eerie crypt of over 5,000 skeletons. 

I also found to to admire the dramatic Gothic architecture of Évora Cathedral, stroll through the charming Praça do Giraldo, and uncover the region’s fascinating past at the Évora Museum.

• Location: south-central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for comfortable sightseeing and blooming landscapes).
• Activities on offer: exploring historic temples, visiting the Bone Chapel, sightseeing, people-watching.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• People-watching in the pretty town square, which was favourite meeting place for locals – it was great to sit on the quaint iron bench under an ancient tree surrounded by characterful old men in traditional hats playing cards and dominoes on worn wooden tables! 

14. Sado Estuary

This was a hidden gem located little off the beaten track! I discovered a protected natural reserve home to with unspoilt golden sandy beaches, calm waters, expansive marshes, picturesque villages with traditional whitewashed houses and quaint fishing docks. It was also teeming with wildlife, such as dolphins and migratory birds.

It’s also undeveloped with a peaceful and natural vibe where I felt a close connection to nature. I discovered it tucked away in southern Portugal around 48 kilometers from Setúbal. It extended into the Atlantic Ocean and bordered by the Troia Peninsula and the Comporta region. Greater flamingos also migrate to here during the winter months.

I drove an hour from Lisbon on a day trip, and took a dolphin-watching tour and managed to spot the super-cute resident bottlenose dolphins.

I also relaxed on the pristine beaches of Comporta and Troia, explored the nearby historic fishing town of Setúbal, hiked the scenic trails of Arrábida Natural Park, and visited the ancient Roman ruins of Troia where I saw an interesting insight into the region’s past.

• Location: western part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for bird watching and nature tours).
• Activities on offer: boat tours, dolphin watching, bird watching, nature walks.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Dining on divine caramel and peanut waffles while watching the sunset the urban beach at the nearby trendy Rockalot Praia restaurant in Setúbal (after visiting the estuary). 

15. Coimbra

I thought this historic city was very charming! It was also very attractive with a hilltop university crowned by the ornate Joanina Library, a medieval Sé Velha Cathedral, charming cobbled streets, and gorgeous views of the Mondego River. I really enjoyed the vibe here too which blended a rich academic heritage with a lively student culture! 

I found it located in the centre of the country, along the banks of the Mondego River, around 120 kilometers south of Porto. It was once Portugal’s medieval capital and is also home to one of Europe’s oldest universities founded in 1290 and today it has a population of around 143,000. The Coimbra’s University, Alta, and Sofia areas are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

I drove an hour from Porto and stayed overnight at the very cool and unique 4-star boutique Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra Hotel.

I explored the historic University of Coimbra and its magnificent Joanina Library, visited the medieval Old Cathedral (Sé Velha), strolled through the picturesque Botanical Garden, admired the Roman ruins at Conímbriga nearby, and enjoy the serene views along the Mondego River. 

• Location: central part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for exploring the historic city in mild weather).
• Activities on offer: visiting the university, exploring parks, sightseeing, visiting monasteries.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Relaxing in Parque Verde do Mondego, a lovely riverfront green space in the city – I cycled along its well maintained pathways, watched the super-fit people use the outdoor fitness equipment located there and then strolled across the footbridge which spanned the river where I saw scenic water views.

16. Amarante

I thought this was such a romantic riverside town! I also thought it was very handsome with gorgeous cobbled streets, post-card pretty traditional houses, picturesque balconies which overhung a river, unique striking bridges which strode the water and the imposing 16th-century São Gonçalo Church which had intricate baroque details.

I discovered it lying peacefully in northern Portugal, along the banks of the Tâmega River, around 60 kilometers east of Porto. It dated back to the Roman era but today it’s home to around 11,000 residents and is known for its connection to Saint Gonçalo.

I drove 50 minutes from Porto and stayed at the magical contemporary Oliveiras Village – Agroturismo which was surrounded by vineyards. 

As well as soaking up the wonderful scenery, I strolled across the historic São Gonçalo Bridge, visited the beautiful São Gonçalo Church, explored the Museu Municipal Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso which showcased interesting modernist art, enjoyed the scenic riverside views along the Tâmega River, and tried the local specialties including the famous convent sweets and vinho verde! 

• Location: northern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: spring (for enjoying the riverside scenery and mild weather).
• Activities on offer: wine tasting, riverside walks, exploring historic bridges, visiting churches.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights..

• Dining on a heavenly Macaroni vegetariano pasta dish at the elegant Italian Ciao Tílias restaurant – I loved the beautifully restored 19th-century building with its high arched windows and exposed stone walls, the very romantic vibe and the Tâmega River views. 

17. Azores

I thought the Azores were extraordinary! I also thought that the Portuguese archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean were stunningly beautiful with dramatic volcanic landscapes, charming whitewashed villages, natural hot springs, a mix of black sand beaches and rugged coastlines framed by crystal-clear waters. I loved that were unspoilt with both a tranquil and adventurous vibe. 

I loved how this unique tourist destination was nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean off the mainland Portugal so it had a very different feel to the rest of the country. The islands were discovered in the 15th century, are known for their volcanic origins, natural beauty, and have a population of around 245,000 residents spread across nine islands.

I flew from Lisbon and stayed for a week In the Azores. I hiked the breathtaking crater lakes of Sete Cidades on São Miguel, soaked in the geothermal hot springs of Furnas, gazed at the dramatic cliffs of Pico Island, visited the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Pico, went on a whale watching boat tour, relaxed on the black sand beaches of Santa Maria and swam in the unique volcanic pools of Terceira.

• Location: mid-Atlantic, off the coast of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for outdoor activities and whale watching).
• Activities on offer: hiking, whale watching, exploring lakes, surfing.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights…

18. Praia Da Amoreira

I personally think this Portugal’s best kept secret! It’s an Algarve beach but it’s wild and unspoiled with stunning golden sands framed by rugged cliffs, a tranquil river estuary perfect for swimming, and untouched natural surroundings. I loved its peaceful, untamed and off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. 

I spent a dreamy day here kicking back and watching surfers glide through the gentle waves, swimming in the calm Aljezur River estuary, exploring the dramatic cliffs and dunes and hiking the nearby Rota Vicentina trails (a network of walking trails filled with scenic beauty). 

• Location: southern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: summer (for warm weather and exploring rock pools).
• Activities on offer: swimming, sunbathing, exploring rock pools, wildlife spotting.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Hiking the well-marked Fishermen’s Trail (Trilho dos Pescadores) which connected me to the nearby Arrifana and Monte Clérigo beaches. It took me three hours to complete and I saw stunning coastal views and rugged cliff landscapes along the way. 

19. Guimaraes

This was a very picturesque historic city! It was also very attractive with well-preserved medieval architecture, cobbled streets, the imposing Guimarães Castle and the elegant Ducal Palace. To me, it felt timeless but with a vibrant yet welcoming small-town atmosphere.

I found it tucked away in the northern part of Portugal, in the Braga District not far from the city of Porto (approximately 55 kilometres). It’s actually known as the “birthplace of Portugal” due to its role in the country’s foundation in the 12th century, but today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a population of around 158,000.

I drove an hour from Porto on a day trip and explored the 10th century Guimarães Castle, visited the grand Ducal Palace, wandered through the medieval streets of the UNESCO-listed old town, relaxed in the picturesque Largo da Oliveira square, and took a cable car ride up to Penha Mountain – the views were gorgeous! 

• Location: northern part of the country.
• Best time to visit: autumn (for historical sightseeing in cooler weather).
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Stumbling across the gorgeous boutique store 9 Seculos which was filled with high quality artisan goods from handwoven wool blankets and embroidered linens featuring traditional Viana do Castelo motifs to sleek modern ceramics and looked like an art gallery inside! 

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