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Top 14 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

Welcome to my Portugal travel blog and the 14 best places to visit in Portugal!

I’m excited to share with you all the amazing things to see and do in this beautiful country. From the stunning landscapes of the Algarve to the historic city of Lisbon, there is so much to explore in Portugal.  One of the best things about Portugal is its diverse range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find it all here. 

Some of the must-see attractions in Portugal include the stunning Algarve coastline, the historic city of Lisbon, the picturesque Douro Valley, and the beautiful island of Madeira.

So let’s get started and enjoy the top 14 best places you should visit in Portugal!

Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Best Places to Visit in Portugal

If you’re looking for an amazing travel destination that has a little bit of everything, then you’ll definitely want to add Portugal to your list! This beautiful country has so much to offer, from stunning beaches and coastal towns to historic cities and quaint villages. And no matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something to see and do.

Read the entire article or jump to any section.


Why should you visit Portugal

  • The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. From the towering peaks of the Serra da Estrela to the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve, Portugal is a feast for the eyes.
  • There’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in Portugal.
  • The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. You’ll quickly feel at home in this hospitable country.
  • The food is absolutely delicious. From fresh seafood to hearty stews, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
  • Portugal is relatively easy to get around. Whether you’re traveling by car, train, or bus, getting from one place to another is relatively straightforward.

Travel time

MonthMin (°C)Max (°C)Mean (°C)Min (°F)Max (°F)Mean (°F)
Jan6.31410.2435750.3
Feb6.41510.7435951.3
Mar81712.6476354.6
Apr9.41813.7496556.7
May11.720.416536961
Jun13.822.618.2577364.8
Jul1524.219.5597567.2
Aug1524.820597767.7
Sep1423.518.8577465.8
Oct12.220.816.5546961.8
Nov91713486255.3
Dec7.314.811455952
Yr10.719.41551.366.959
Porto – Average temperatures (1991-2020) (Source: Climatestotravel)

So when is the best time to visit Portugal? The answer really depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. If you’re hoping to catch some sun, then the best time to visit is between May and September. However, if you’re more interested in exploring the country’s history and culture, then autumn and spring are ideal.

No matter when you decide to visit, one thing is for sure: you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time in Portugal!

Geographical Position

Portugal is a country located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south, and by Spain to the north and east. Portugal is approximately 300,000 square kilometers in size, and has a population of over 10 million people.

The country can be divided into four main geographic regions: the coastal plain, the central uplands, the northern mountains, and the southern plains. The coastal plain is a low-lying area that stretches along the entire length of the country. The central uplands are a hilly region located in the center of Portugal. The northern mountains are located in the north of the country, and include the highest point in Portugal, Mount Pico. The southern plains are located in the south of the country, and are characterized by hot, dry weather.

14 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

1. Lisbon

Lisbon - Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Lisbon

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The city is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Lisbon, from exploring the city’s many museums and historical landmarks to enjoying the views from one of the many rooftop bars.

2. Porto

Porto - Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Porto

Porto is Portugal’s second largest city and is located in the north of the country. The city is known for its port wine and stunning architecture, and there are plenty of things to see and do.

Visit the Porto Cathedral, take a cruise down the Douro River, or enjoy the views from one of the many bridges.

3. Sintra

Palácio da Pena, Sintra, Portugal - Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Palácio da Pena, Sintra, Portugal

Sintra is a small town located just outside of Lisbon.

The town is known for its fairytale-like castles and palaces and is a popular day trip from the city. Visit the Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors, or the Quinta da Regaleira for a truly magical experience.

4. Madeira

Madeira - Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Madeira

Madeira is an island located off the coast of Portugal. The island is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Madeira Botanical Gardens, and its vibrant Carnival celebrations.

There are also plenty of things to do for adventure seekers, such as hiking and paragliding.

5. The Azores

The Azores - Best Places to Visit in Portugal
The Azores

The Azores are a group of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are known for their volcanic landscapes, lush vegetation, and friendly locals.

There are plenty of things to do on the islands, from hiking and biking to whale watching and swimming in the hot springs.

6. Algarve

Algarve - Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Algarve

The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal and is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastline. The region is also a popular destination for golfers, with many world-class golf courses.

For those looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of things to do, such as hiking, biking, and windsurfing.

7. Coimbra

Coimbra
Coimbra

Coimbra is a university town located in central Portugal. The town is known for its beautiful architecture and lively student population.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Coimbra, from exploring the university to visiting the city’s many museums and churches.

8. Evora

Evora
Evora

Evora is a small town located in the Alentejo region of Portugal. The town is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and medieval architecture.

There are also plenty of things to do for nature lovers, such as hiking and bird watching.

9. Fatima

Fatima
Fatima

Fatima is a small town located in central Portugal. The town is known for its religious shrines and pilgrimage sites.

Every year, millions of people visit Fatima to see the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity.

10. Portimao

Portimao
Portimao

Portimao is a coastal town located in the Algarve region of Portugal. The town is known for its beaches and its lively atmosphere.

There are plenty of things to do in Portimao, from enjoying the views from one of the many lookout points to exploring the town’s museums and churches.

11. Lagos

Lagos
Lagos

Lagos is a coastal town located in the Algarve region of Portugal.

The town is known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and history. Lagos was once the capital of the Algarve and there are plenty of things to see and do, from exploring the old town to visiting the Lagos Zoo.

12. Vila Nova de Milfontes

Vila Nova de Milfontes
Vila Nova de Milfontes

Vila Nova de Milfontes is a small town located in the Alentejo region of Portugal. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and its relaxed atmosphere.

There are plenty of things to do in Vila Nova de Milfontes, from enjoying the views from one of the many lookout points to exploring the town’s museums and churches.

13. Cascais

Cascais
Cascais

Cascais is a coastal town located just outside of Lisbon.

The town is known for its beaches, luxury hotels, and lively atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do in Cascais, from enjoying the views from one of the many lookout points to exploring the town’s museums and churches.

14. Tavira

Tavira
Tavira

Tavira is a small town located in the Algarve region of Portugal. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and its relaxed atmosphere.

There are plenty of things to do in Tavira, from enjoying the views from one of the many lookout points to exploring the town’s museums and churches.

Summary of Best Places to Visit in Portugal

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Top 10 Places To Visit In Portugal

Portugal is a renowned tourist destination for a plethora of reasons. Situated on the Iberian Peninsula, the country offers stunningly beautiful coastline, picturesque villages, historic cities, and delicious food and wine. But beyond the physical attractions, Portugal also has a rich culture and friendly people.

The Portuguese are known for their relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle and their hospitality. Visitors to Portugal will often find themselves being invited into people’s homes for a meal or a drink, and the locals are always happy to chat and share their culture.


Music is an important part of Portuguese culture, with a wide variety of traditional and contemporary styles on offer. Fado, a type of Portuguese folk music, is particularly popular and can be heard in bars and restaurants across the country.

Portugal is also home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic center of Porto, the medieval town of Évora, and the Convent of Christ in Tomar. These are just a few of the many reasons why Portugal is such a popular destination for travelers worldwide.

We hope you enjoyed the Best Places to Visit in Portugal! You can find more European blogs.

Or have a look at
Top 9 Best Places to Visit in Prague
.

Marcel Kuhn