Portugal is a beautiful country located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Portugal has become a hugely popular tourist destination in recent years. If you're planning a trip to Portugal, you simply must visit some of the country's top attractions. Here are the 10 best and most popular places to visit in Portugal.
Lisbon
As Portugal's capital and largest city, Lisbon is likely to be your first stop when visiting the country. Spread a Portugal is a beautiful country located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Portugal has become a hugely popular tourist destination in recent years. If you're planning a trip to Portugal, you simply must visit some of the country's top attractions. Here are the 10 best and most popular places to visit in Portugal.
cross steep hills overlooking the Rio Tejo, Lisbon's architecture is a mix of medieval, Baroque, and modern styles. Don't miss the Alfama neighborhood, the city's oldest district, with winding cobblestone streets and Fado bars where you can hear traditional Portuguese singing. Make sure to also visit Belém Tower, a 16th century fortress on the bank of the Tejo, as well as the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, an impressive symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries.
Porto
Portugal's second largest city, Porto is located further north along the Douro River and offers a distinctly different vibe from Lisbon. Porto is known for its stately bridges, riverside promenades, and historic Ribeira neighborhood, with its colorful houses and charming plazas. Don't miss the neoclassical Stock Exchange Palace and the imposing Cathedral located high above the city. And be sure to take a boat trip along the Douro to admire Porto's six bridges, including the iconic double-decker Luis I Bridge.
Sintra
Located just 30 minutes by train from Lisbon is the picturesque town of Sintra. Rising above the city is the 19th century Pena Palace, one of the best examples of Romantic architecture in Europe, with its vibrant mix of styles and colors. The surrounding Sintra Mountains are dotted with fairytale castles and majestic palaces dating back to Moorish and Portuguese royalty. Don't miss the rugged beauty of Cabo da Roca, Europe's westernmost point just north of Sintra.
Évora
The charming city of Évora is located in the heart of the Alentejo region and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through Évora is like stepping back in time to when the Romans ruled this part of Portugal. Don't miss landmarks like the Roman Temple of Évora and the vine-covered ruins of a 2nd century arena. Wandering the cobblestone streets past whitewashed houses with Moorish-style arches and wrought-iron balconies is a delight.
Coimbra
Situated along the Rio Mondego, Coimbra is home to one of Europe's oldest universities and has a wonderful scholarly vibe. You can explore the historic campus of the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, including the Baroque University Library and the 18th century Clock Tower. Be sure to also visit Coimbra Cathedral and the medieval Old Cathedral with its ornate tombs. Coimbra is also known for the melancholic genre of music and poetry called fado.
Algarve
With its 100 miles of coastline, the Algarve region is home to some of Portugal's best beaches. Picturesque towns like Lagoa, Albufeira and Lagos offer great seafood, boat tours to nearby grottoes, and access to stunning beaches tucked into coves with golden sandstone cliffs. Don't miss the Ponta da Piedade, a collection of rock formations and sea caves jutting into the turquoise waters outside Lagos. The perfect spot to relax under the sun by the shimmering sea.
Obidos
This charming hilltop village is located just over an hour north of Lisbon. Still surrounded by medieval walls, Óbidos is a delightful place to stroll cobblestone streets past whitewashed houses livened up with colorful flowers and plants. Make sure to also check out the hilltop Óbidos Castle, which offers sweeping views over the town and countryside. The surrounding region is known for its delicious ginjinha, a cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup.
Douro Valley
Portugal's scenic Douro Valley follows the Douro River through terraced vineyards and pastoral landscapes. Picturesque towns like Lamego and Peso da Régua offer great views over the valley, along with wine tastings at centuries-old wineries. A boat trip along the Douro lets you admire the slopes blanketed in orderly rows of vines. Don't miss Porto at the mouth of the river, where all that delicious port wine is blended and stored.
Funchal, Madeira
The island of Madeira lies 400 miles off the coast of Morocco, known as the "pearl of the Atlantic." The capital, Funchal, offers a lovely old town with a riverside promenade, the Municipal Garden, and the Mercado dos Lavradores farmer's market with its wicker roofs. Ride a cable car up into the hills for breathtaking views and exotic gardens. Madeira is also renowned for its New Year's Eve celebrations featuring elaborate fireworks.
Conclusion
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diversity of landscapes, Portugal offers an incredible variety of sights and experiences for visitors. From lively cities like Lisbon and Porto, to historic towns like Évora and Coimbra, to stunning coastlines along the Algarve, there are so many amazing places to explore in Portugal. Use this list of the top 10 most popular destinations to help you plan an unforgettable trip full of Portuguese charm and beauty. Wherever you go, prepare to fall in love with this wonderful country.