The 10 Best Places To Visit In Portugal

OT Staff

Lisbon

The capital is where the sun shines 290 days a year and the temperature rarely drops below 15°C. See its Gothic and Baroque architecture; visit its prominent museums and art collections; and check out its Fado bars.

The Marquis of Pombal Square in Lisbon | Shutterstock

Douro Valley

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has towering hillsides covered by steeply terraced vineyards that make up Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. You’ll be rewarded with astonishing views at every turn during your visit here.

The terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley | Shutterstock

Óbidos

The mediaeval town of Óbidos is one of the most picturesque and well-preserved in Portugal. Alongside a castle and other fortifications, this UNESCO City of Literature is renowned for its bookstores.

The mediaeval castle and walls that surround Óbidos | Shutterstock

Sintra

The historic centre of the city is famous for its 19th-century Romanticist architecture, estates and villas, gardens, and royal palaces and castles, all of which have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

Inside the Palace of Sintra | Shutterstock

Évora

Due to its well-preserved old town centre and monuments, Évora is another UNESCO World Heritage Site of Portugal. Visit the Roman Temple and the Chapel of Bones while you’re here.

The Chapel of Bones in Évora | Shutterstock

Setúbal Peninsula

South of Lisbon, the Setúbal Peninsula is home to the Costa da Caparica, a beachfront that gets wilder and less crowded the further south you go. If you want to learn surfing or eat a meal overlooking the lapping waves then this is the place to be. 

Sunset at the Costa da Caparica | Shutterstock

Porto

Located along the Douro River in northern Portugal, Porto is one of the oldest European cities. Drink its iconic Port wine and sample Portuguese cuisine like tripas à Moda do Oporto, the francesinha sandwich and rojões while here.

A selection of Port wines in Porto | Shutterstock

The Algarve

The Algarve's mild climate and sunshine draw millions of tourists every year. Relax on well-known beaches like the Praia da Luz, learn about the history of the Portuguese water dog, and check out its ceramics heritage.

The Praia da Luz in The Algarve | Shutterstock

Parque Natural Da Serra Da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela is Portugal’s highest mountain range and has beautiful rugged scenery. Hikers can choose from an expansive network of high-country trails and admire the region's mountain villages on their visit here.

A lake in the Parque Natural Da Serra Da Estrela | Shutterstock

Coimbra

Coimbra is famous for its university, the oldest in Portugal, which over time has shaped its image to become “the city of students.” Discover the Romanesque architecture of the Old Cathedral and taste the Santa Clara pastries of the city.

Interior of Coimbra's Old Cathedral | Shutterstock

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A group of tourists on a heritage walk in Venice | Shutterstock
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