There are so many beautiful places in Portugal and picking just 21 pretty places is almost impossible. But that’s okay – we did it for you so that you can just go ahead and plan your dream trip to Portugal.
We have a soft spot for Portugal and it’s one of your favourite countries in Europe. For us, Portugal is the perfect blend of history, culture, nature and of course that incredible food. It’s also very easy to put together a Spain and Portugal itinerary and see the best of the Iberian peninsula in one go.
For this post, we’ve put together a list of the most beautiful places in Portugal with both popular and some more off the beaten track destinations. Of course, these spots are not necessarily the best places to visit in Portugal for YOU, but they can help you decide where to go in Portugal.
Vamos! Let’s go see the most beautiful places in Portugal (and why you should visit them).
Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).
- The Most Beautiful Places in Portugal to Visit in 2022
- Lisbon
- Porto
- Evora
- Nazare
- Sintra
- Aveiro
- Terceira: The Most Beautiful Island in the Azores
- Douro Valley: One of the Most Beautiful Places in Portugal
- Cascais
- Pico do Arieiro – Madeira
- Lagos
- Monsaraz
- Serra da Estrela Natural Park
- Tavira
- Olhao
- Ericeira: A Beautiful Surf Town in Portugal
- Sesimbra: Beautiful Seaside Town Near Lisbon
- Agueda: A Colourful Town on the Camino Portugues
- Faro
- Fatima: A Beautiful Place in Portugal for Pilgrims & Tourists
- Tomar
- Beautiful Places in Portugal: Where Will You Go Next?
The Most Beautiful Places in Portugal to Visit in 2022
Lisbon
Lisbon is a small and compact city as far as capital cities go, but is definitely one of the most beautiful and vibrant capital cities we’ve ever seen.
Built on seven hills and situated on the banks of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is also one of the oldest cities in the world. In fact, it’s the second oldest capital city in Europe after Athens.
The beautiful architecture, the millennia of history and the energetic vibe that follows you everywhere you go in Lisbon make it a fantastic destination for young and old. Lisbon is a colourful city brimming with azulejo-covered buildings, street art, music, museums, excellent food and many miradouros for spectacular views over the city.
You will literally be walking on art most of the time that you spend in Lisbon. Like everywhere else in Portugal, the sidewalks are a sight in themselves. The Portuguese pavements (calçada Portuguesa) are basically giant mosaics of waves, rosettes and other geometric patterns.
To enjoy the city, plan to spend at least 4 days in Lisbon. With four days you’ll have more than enough time to indulge in pasteis de nata, ride the rickety, yellow trams up and down Lisbon’s seven hills, explore the colourful neighbourhood of Alfama and visit beautiful Belem.
For the best seafood in Lisbon, don’t miss Cervejaria Ramiro. It was Anthony Bourdain’s favourite restaurant in Lisbon and we understand why.
Get yourself a Lisboa Card, as it allows free and fast track entry to the major sights and transportation in Lisbon.
If you’re in Lisbon over the weekend, you do not want to miss LX Factory. This creative space is the coolest place in Lisbon, and it’s the best place for live music, shopping, eating, strolling and soaking up Lisbon’s youthful vibe.
Where to stay in Lisbon
Be Poet Baixa Hotel
Stay in the heart of Lisbon and walk to all the attractions. Situated in the historic centre of Chiado near Rossia Square, Be Poet Baixa Hotel is the best place to stay for tourists wishing to explore Lisbon.
Porto
Portugal’s second city is drop-dead gorgeous, and often steals the capital’s limelight. Well connected to the rest of Europe, Porto is a weekend city break that dreams are made of.
The best way to see Porto is on foot. You’ll see some of the best azulejos in the country while wandering around the city. For the best traditional, blue and white, azulejos, go check out the Baroque church of Igreja do Carmo or the interior of the Sao Bento Station. For azulejo with a modern twist, abstract tiles in all the colours of the rainbow completely cover the facade of the restaurant Steak ‘n Shake.
Harry Potter fans and Instagrammers will, without a doubt, be heading straight to Livraria Lello. People believe that this quirky but beautiful bookshop inspired JK Rowling when she came up with Hogwarts.
Walk across the Dom Luis I Bridge, one of Europe’s iconic landmarks to Gaia. The riverside neighbourhood of Gaia is where you’ll find all the port wine cellars that Porto is famous for.
Plan to spend a good part of your day sipping port and wine here. You could (and should) also go on a cellar tour to learn more about how Port is made. Gaia is also a great place to eat, or simply sit and drink on the banks of the Douro River.
A cruise along the Douro river on a traditional boat is a relaxing way to see Porto’s six famous bridges and see the city from another angle.
The food in Porto is just as amazing as anywhere else in Portugal. The city’s signature dish is a meat and cheese sandwich that’s smothered in sauce and it’s called a Francesinha. Sounds good, right?
Where to stay in Porto
Porto Arte Aparments
Porto Arte Apartments is situated on a pedestrian street in the centre of Porto. The hostess, Maria, owns an antique shop across the street and she tastefully decorated the apartment. The surrounding area is peppered with art galleries, antique shops, cafes and street art. Fully equipped for self-catering, but many restaurants and cafes in the area too.
Evora
White, yellow and blue. These are the colours of the beautiful medieval town of Evora in the Alentejo region.
The old town of Evora is completely surrounded by a city wall. Inside these walls, you’ll find a maze of narrow, cobblestoned alleys flanked by white buildings with yellow borders. Look up and see the sun smiling down on you from the blue sky.
Inside the walls, you can find a Roman Temple, beautiful Baroque churches, a cathedral, an aqueduct and sunny calçada Portuguesa squares. Praça do Giraldo, the main city square has many cafes with outside tables for that quintessential European pastime. While the pasteis de nata are as good as elsewhere in Portugal, you should also try the local delicacy Queijadas de Évora, which is a lovely little cheese tart.
Some people like to call Evora the New Tuscany thanks to its rustic charm and excellent regional cuisine and wine. This region is known for producing the best red wine in Portugal. You can (and should) go wine tasting at several wineries just outside of town, or even a few places in Evora itself.
Rota dos Vinhos do Alentejo, a co-op for local wineries, in the centre of Evora offers wine tasting at a bargain price of €3 for 6 wines!
You can also visit cork tree forests and learn about how they use cork (other than for wine) on the farms surrounding Evora.
Where to stay in Evora
Vitória House
Go local and stay at this studio apartment right in the centre of Evora near the cathedral and Roman temple. Vitória House has free public parking nearby.
Nazare
Every surfer worth his or her mettle knows of Nazare. This beautiful surf town on the Costa da Prata (Silver Coast), halfway between Lisbon and Porto is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal for nature, culture and adventure junkies.
Nazare is home to the world’s largest surfing waves which can get up to 30 meters in height. The wide and rugged Praia do Norte is where these monsters slam into the land. Brave surfers and onlookers are in for a powerful experience.
But Nazare is not all about the surf. The town itself is a stunner, and there are still many aspects of a traditional fishing town to see. Women dressed in the traditional five underskirts still dry fish and octopus on the beach or rent out beach cabanas on the town’s swimming beach.
Take the funicular between Nazare and the clifftop neighbourhood of Sitio for an amazing view over the red-tiled roofs of Nazare and the Atlantic. The view from Sitio itself is even better!
After taking in the view over Nazare, visit the Nossa Senhora da Nazaré church. This church is popular with pilgrims as its believed to house a wooden carving made by Joseph of Nazaret.
A short walk from here will take you to the Farol da Nazare (lighthouse). There is a small but interesting surf museum in the lighthouse. When the swell is in, this is the absolute best place to see Nazare’s monster waves.
Where to stay in Nazare
Tipping Point North Beach
Tipping Point North Beach, a short walk from Nazare’s famous surf beach, Praia do Norte, is the kind of place where guests leave as friends. Pam and Mark are the perfect hosts and while you might be here for the waves, you will want to stay for Pam’s sumptuous breakfast spreads.
Sintra
The best way to describe Sintra is simply to say it’s a fairy tale!
Once the residence of Portuguese royalty, Sintra is a UNESCO-recognized collection of palaces, villas, parks, gardens and estates. As royalty does, these guys tried to outdo each other and, as a result, each palace is more over the top than the previous.
Exploring beautiful Sintra, just 40 minutes outside Lisbon, is best done as a day trip and it’s quite easy to do yourself. Read here how to go on a DIY Sintra day trip like we did.
With only one day in Sintra, choose only two places to see in Sintra. We suggest the famous Pena Palace for its fairy tale castle and Quinta da Regaleira for its magnificent gardens and inverted, underground towers.
If you don’t want to rush through Sintra, then staying the night is a wonderful experience – something that most others visiting Sintra miss out on.
Where to stay in Sintra
Glamping Sintra
The vast majority of those visiting Sintra do so on a day trip from Lisbon. However, those who choose to stay the night will be rewarded with seeing Sintra in quiet after all the daytrippers have gone back to Lisbon.
For something unique, check into Glamping Sintra where you can hang around in your hammock outside your cabin while looking at the Pena Palace.
Aveiro
The picturesque city of Aveiro, just one hour from Porto by train, makes for an easy day trip or stopover when travelling between Lisbon and Porto. Dubbed the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro is renowned for its charming canals and painted gondolas known as Moliceiros, which ferry visitors along the maze of waterways in the city centre.
Besides its rich maritime history, the traditional seaport city charms with colourful Art Nouveau buildings, engaging museums and plenty of cafes and restaurants lining the main waterway. Stroll the quaint side streets and alleys to discover traditional blue-and-white tiles adorning the Old Train Station, the Misericordia Church and many homes, shops and buildings in the city.
Visit the Aveiro lagoon with its open-air eco-museum and salt pans to discover the region’s history and traditional methods of salt production. Call into the Aveiro Fish Market to witness the frantic action of the day’s catch being unloaded and taste freshly cooked local fish. And don’t miss sampling the super-sweet egg-yolk treat of Ovos Moles, a regional delicacy.
Whilst Aveiro offers a range of laid-back activities for visitors to enjoy, it is undoubtedly a Moliceiro boat ride through the picturesque city canals that is the area’s main attraction. Traditionally used to transport seaweed harvested from the region’s shallow lagoons, the colourfully painted gondolas today ferry visitors along the network of waterways cutting through the heart of the pretty city.
Where to stay in Aviero
Central Tiled Apartment
A spacious and tastefully decorated apartment with a sunny rooftop terrace awaits you when staying at Central Tiled Apartment in the heart of Aveiro. Fully equipped for self-catering and comes with AC for summer and heating in winter. The central location is perfect for exploring Aveiro on foot. Previous guests claim that this apartment is better than Ovos Moles (blasphemy!!)
Terceira: The Most Beautiful Island in the Azores
By Greta from Greta’s Travels
If you’re looking for the most beautiful places in Portugal, you have to add Terceira to your Portugal bucket list. Located in the Azores, this Portuguese island is a must-see for outdoors and nature lovers.
In Terceira, you will find incredible hiking trails, stunning viewpoints, unique natural pools and picturesque colonial towns. Being a volcanic island, you will find many unique landscapes, from lush green vegetation to dark rocky views.
Biscoitos is the most popular natural pool on the island. With its clear blue water and unique rock formations, it’s easy to see why.
Another popular attraction on the island is Algar do Carvao; a cave hidden inside a volcano! You can visit the inside of this volcano and discover the unique plant and animal life that lives inside this lava tube.
History lovers can also spend their days strolling around Angra do Heroismo, one of the capital cities of the Azores. This city is characterized by colourful colonial architecture, making it an interesting town to walk around. There is also Monte Brasil, a park located in front of the city from which you get spectacular views of Angra do Heroismo and the surrounding hills.
If you’re looking for a gorgeous Portuguese destination, which is a bit off the beaten track and has lots to offer from a natural point of view, then Terceira is the place for you.
Where to stay in Terceira
Pousada de Angra do Heroismo Castelo de S. Sebastiao
Pousada de Angra do Heroismo Castelo de S. Sebastiao is a modern hotel located inside the 16th-century fortress of Angra do Heroismo. This unique hotel offers sweeping sea views across the Atlantic and towards Monte Brasil. There are two pools, of which one is for adults only. Offers exceptional value and ambience.
Douro Valley: One of the Most Beautiful Places in Portugal
By Soumya from Stories by Soumya
The Alto Douro Wine Region, or Douro Valley, near Porto, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Portugal.
It is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world and is dotted with rolling hills and terraced vineyards. The majestic Douro River makes its way through the valley while shimmering in golden sunlight thus, casting a magical hue over the entire region.
Douro Valley was inscribed on the UNESCO list of world heritage sites in 2001 for its traditional viticulture practices that have withstood the test of time.
Tourists visit the Douro not just to taste the amazing Port Wine that the region produces but also to soak in the beauty of the land.
Taking a rabelo boat tour on the Douro River followed by a winery tour is the best way to spend a day in the Douro Valley.
Getting to Douro Valley from Porto by train is easy and cheap. Just hop onto a Linha do Douro train from Porto Sao Bento and get off at Pinhao (2hrs 15minutes away), the most popular stop. Be sure to grab a seat on the right side of the train while travelling towards Pinhao and be rewarded with stunning views of the Douro Valley.
Where to stay in the Douro Valley
Vintage House
Bask in the lap of luxury when staying at the magnificent Vintage House. Located in Pinhão on the banks of the Douro River, this stunning hotel is housed in a former 18th-century wine estate.
Cascais
By Katja from Travel n History
Cascais is a gorgeous town located under an hour from Lisbon. It’s well known for its many white-sand beaches and its Old Town centre, with cobblestone streets lined with fantastic restaurants and little shops.
This coastal town is surrounded by nature, with the calm, turquoise waters on one side, and thickly growing greenery on the other. Exploring it by bike, you can find hidden beaches and stark cliffs where brave locals and visitors alike leap into the water. In the centre of Cascais, the beaches lead onto calm enough waters for easy stand-up paddleboarding, but if you go just a bit out, the coastline grows wild and perfect for surfing.
Once the summer destination of the Portuguese nobility, you’ll find some beautifully ornate old buildings, many of them covered in ivy, and looking out over the blue-green sea, really adding to a picture-perfect scene. You’ll also find some great museums on Portuguese folklore and history!
You don’t need a car to visit Cascais – especially from Lisbon. You can catch a train or a bus easily, and you’ll arrive right in the centre of the action, making it a perfect day trip if you don’t have the time to spend days here.
Where to stay in the Cascais
Bem Lembrados Apartment
The bright and well equipped Bem Lembrados Apartment in the centre of Cascais comes with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, and 2 bathrooms. Within easy walking distance from the beach, restaurants and sightseeing spots of Cascais, it’s one of the most popular holiday apartments in Cascais.
Pico do Arieiro – Madeira
By Kitti from Kitti Around the World
Whilst there are many beautiful places in mainland Portugal, you shouldn’t forget about the country’s stunning island of Madeira. The island is packed with natural attractions, so you can easily spend a week exploring Madeira.
If you love the outdoors, then your visit wouldn’t be complete without hiking from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. At 1,818m Pico do Arieiro is the third highest mountain in Madeira whilst, at 1,862m, Pico Ruivo is the highest.
For the best experience, arrive at Pico do Arieiro just before sunrise. After witnessing the magic, start the approximately 10km point to point trail. Due to the trail consisting of steep ridges, steps, and tunnels you need to have a head for heights and some previous hiking experience. It should take about 5 to 6 hours to complete the trial.
Along the way, you’ll be constantly treated to 360-degree views. You’ll also be walking above the clouds a lot which on its own is a unique experience. The clouds can move in and out quickly, changing the landscape and making you want to take photos regularly.
Since Pico do Arieiro is the site of a NATO radar installation, you can drive up to the peak. There’s a car park, toilet facilities, an exhibition area and a café. Therefore, even if hiking isn’t your cup of tea, you can join a tour that will drive you to the top.
Where to stay when hiking Pico do Areiro
Valley of Nuns Holiday Apartments
The Valley of Nuns with its spectacular mountain scenery and traditional charm is just the right place to spend a few days before or after hiking Pico do Arieiro. You can choose to do more hiking, explore the area’s traditional culture and food, or simply relax. Valley of Nuns Holiday Apartments is hands-down the best place to stay near Pico do Areiro.
Lagos
By Danny from Danny Explores
Lagos is a small harbour town located on the Algarve coast. The small town is littered with history (over 2000 years of it)! You’ll see the town’s roots everywhere you go; from the various statues and monuments to the castle of Lagos which is located right in the heart of the town! As you walk around the harbour, you’ll come across small market stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and other traditional goods. Keep an eye out for the old town walls!
Lagos is one of the most visited major towns along the Algarve coast. One of the reasons for this is the beautiful beaches and stunning rock formations that it has to offer. The Algarve is famous for its striking coastline and Lagos is no exception to this.
You’ll find some beautiful rock formations on many of the beaches here! So, if history isn’t your thing, make sure you bring your beach towel! If you fancy some refreshments, then be sure to grab a coffee in one of the small cafés that surround the harbour and watch the world go by!
If you fancy an extra special adventure, then make sure you check out one of the many boat or kayak tours that are on offer around the harbour, especially one to the Benagil caves (one of Portugal’s most photographed locations) if you’ve never visited before!
Where to stay in Lagos
Carvi Beach Hotel
Located right on Dona Ana Beach, Carvi Beach Hotel features a rooftop pool, amazing sea views and free parking. Previous guests particularly liked the location.
Monsaraz
The clifftop village of Monsaraz with its castle and city wall gets our vote for the most beautiful village in Portugal. Perched on a narrow hilltop and surrounded by medieval walls, Monsaraz offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional life of rural Portugal.
Like elsewhere in the Alentejo, the food and wine in Monsaraz are top-notch. Enjoy the slow life and ride a bike in the surrounding countryside dotted with olive groves, white-washed hamlets and cork forests.
You will not only find excellent views over the Alentejo hinterland from Monsaraz, but this hilltop village is also where the best pottery in Portugal comes from. Visit São Pedro do Corval to see the whole process from throwing clay on the wheel, to painting, glazing and baking. You can also give it a try yourself of feeling creative.
Monsaraz is one of the best places in Europe for stargazing due to Alentejo’s cloudless skies and lack of light pollution. The Observatório do Lago Alqueva offers nightly stargazing sessions.
Where to stay in Monsaraz
Dom Nuno
With panoramic views from the balconies and relaxing garden, Dom Nuno offers spacious rooms and a breakfast spread to look forward to in the morning.
Serra da Estrela Natural Park
By Cath from Moving to Portugal
If you are looking for beautiful places to visit in Portugal, they don’t get more beautiful than the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Located in the Central region of Portugal, this natural park is also situated in the largest mountain range in Portugal and also contains the highest point in continental Portugal.
Throughout the natural park, you will find outstanding natural beauty including waterfalls, rivers, valleys and dams.
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park highest peak is the Torre, marked by a monument and accessible by road. At the summit, you will also find Portugal’s only ski lift as, yes, it does snow there in winter. There is also a tourist building where you can purchase local crafts and produce including cheese and amazing Serra da Estrela cured ham.
Another point of interest is the Senhora da Boa Estrela, an incredible rock carving of the protector Saint of the Shepherds. There are also hikes to enjoy and the towns in the foothills are pretty and worth visiting.
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a beautiful part of Portugal and a must if you are visiting Central Portugal. Remember to enjoy a café and pastel de nata in the restaurant at the summit while taking in the views.
Where to stay in Serra da Estrela
Pousada de Belmonte
The charming boutique hotel of Pousada de Belmonte is the top choice when deciding where to stay near Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Set in an extremely quiet area inside the medieval Monastery of Nossa Senhora da Esperança, the hotel features rooms with balconies overlooking the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Free parking is available.
Tavira
By Alison from Alison in Andalucia
There are many beautiful towns in Portugal’s Algarve region but Tavira, which sits on the banks of the Rio Gilao just 25kms from the border with Spain, has to be one of the prettiest.
Tavira’s old town has cobbled streets lined with buildings with traditional tiled facades. For a great view wander through the old town to the Castelo de Tavira and climb the watchtower. The view extends over the town and down to the Ria Formosa lagoon.
There are boat tours around the lagoon or it’s an easy walk from the riverfront where you can wander around the salt pans. There’s a lot of birdlife here and, if you’re lucky, you may spot a flamingo or two.
If you’re a beach lover then you’re in luck as Tavira has three long stretches of golden sands –
Praia da Ilha de Tavira, Praia da Terra Estreita, and Praia do Barril.
To reach the beaches you need to take the ferry, or a water taxi, from the riverfront to Ilha de Tavira. The ferries run every half an hour and the 20-minute journey only costs €2.20 for a return ticket.
Tavira has plenty of restaurants and, not surprisingly, the seafood is excellent. Make sure you try some sardines or a ‘cataplana’ while you’re in town.
Olhao
By Linn from Brainy Backpackers
Olhao is one of the most underrated towns in Algarve, yet one of the most beautiful places to visit in Portugal. Being right in front of the impressive Ria Formosa Natural Park, you can get boat trips around the islands, go snorkelling, and explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
The most stunning islands off Olhao are Ilha da Culatra and Ilha da Armona, both with a little settlement, though the latter is receiving more tourists overnight. They both have breathtaking long white beaches. You can book a boat trip to go on an island tour to the beaches and villages.
Olhao itself is super charming. Get lost in the narrow labyrinth streets where cars can’t fit to discover cute squares and doorways. Check out the town’s street art – they even have a whole street dedicated to the town’s fishing history right above the port.
For foodies, it’s full of restaurants – even with vegetarian and vegan options. Visit the Mercado de Olhao for a unique experience, you can’t miss the massive red brick building by the port.
You should also visit Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário in Olhao’s old quarter. In front of the church, on the opposite side of the little square, you can visit the municipal museum, Museu Municipal de Olhao where you can learn more about the town’s long fishing history.
Where to stay in Olhao
Casa Magica
With stunning views from the rooftop terrace and fully equipped for self-catering, Casa Magica is pure magic! If you want something special, quiet, and traditional, you can’t go wrong with this unique holiday home right in the centre of Olhao near the market and ferry dock to Culatra Island.
Ericeira: A Beautiful Surf Town in Portugal
By Josefine & Dominik from Red White Adventures
It’s likely that you’ve heard about Ericeira before. This little beach town located on the western coast of Portugal is not only one of the most beautiful beach towns you’ll see on the west coast of Europe, but it is also one of the best places for surfing in the world! This traditional Portuguese fishing village has so much to offer!
Ericeira is famous for its surf, its delicious seafood caught fresh every day, and its cute houses and incredibly beautiful beaches. You might find it interesting knowing that Ericeira dates back to the 12th century and that still to this day, you can see remains from back then.
Once you’re in Ericeira you will have to eat at all the different seafood restaurants, get a drink at one of the outdoor bars while watching the sunset over the ocean, and eat pastel de nata at O Pãozinho das Marias which is supposedly the best place in town to get them!
Once you’ve eaten your way through town it might be time for some exercise. Take surf lessons at Lapoint Surf Camp and hike along the coast to Forte de São Julião da Ericeira which is a famous landmark.
Bring your camera and some sunscreen and enjoy this beautiful town!
Where to stay in Ericeira
Eco Soul Ericeira Guesthouse
Eco Soul Ericeira Guesthouse is strictly for couples only, and couples looking for a memorable break will love this amazing guesthouse. Active guests can enjoy activities that are popular in the area such as surfing, bodyboarding, standup paddling, cycling and fishing, while those looking to relax can sit and stare at the Atlantic Ocean from their private balcony.
Sesimbra: Beautiful Seaside Town Near Lisbon
By Amy from The Travel Fairies Blog
One of the most beautiful places in Portugal is Sesimbra, and as a bonus, it’s relatively unheard of too! Not far from Lisbon, Sesimbra is a great option for a day trip or short break if you want some time away from the city. Lisbon locals head here on weekends and holidays but it is not too swamped with tourists.
Sesimbra is a municipality lying in the foothills of the Serra da Arrábida mountain range around 45 minutes drive South of Lisbon. The old town of Sesimbra is a typical Portuguese fishing town with cobbled streets, plenty of churches and white-washed buildings. The town also hosts a castle, lighthouse and maritime museum inside a Fort.
There are two beaches in the town itself, Praia da Califórnia and Praia do Ouro. Both of these are beautiful, large, sandy beaches but can get a bit crowded in peak season.
Aside from the town itself, the surrounding area is also stunning. With towering cliffs to one side, rolling hills to the other and turquoise waters all the way around. Parque Natural da Arrábida is known for some of the most picturesque landscapes and best beaches in all of Portugal. The forested hills make for great hiking, the coastline is perfect for exploring by kayak and dolphins can even be spotted out to sea.
While it is possible to visit the town of Sesimbra from Lisbon using only public transport, a car is needed to appreciate the beauty of the entire area. A hire car would generally be the best option so you can explore on your own, but there are also guided tours that leave from Lisbon
Car Hire in Lisbon
Don’t wait for the bus.
We recommend Discover Cars when looking to hire a car in Portugal.
Agueda: A Colourful Town on the Camino Portugues
By Jackie from jou jou travels
Agueda is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe located on the coast of Portugal. This small place with only 14,000 inhabitants is also a convenient stop along the Portuguese Camino de Santiago.
The town is perfect for exploring on foot, and you don’t need a specific agenda. However, the main reason to come to Agueda is to see the colourful Umbrella Street.
The town is one of the most cheerful towns in Europe due to all the vibrant colours around. Many streets are decorated with street art and there is a music festival as well. It is all put together by the Umbrella Sky Project each year.
The closest airport is in Porto, and Aveiro is only a 30-minute drive away. It is best to drive here if you can as public transport is inconvenient. It’s also easily visited on a day trip from Aveiro.
Where to stay in Agueda
XTP Agueda
Want to enjoy the cute pathways and pops of colour of Agueda at a slower pace? Then stay at the cosy XTP Agueda right on Umbrella Street. If you’re on the Camino, XTP will also stamp your Camino passport for you.
Faro
By Paulina from Paulina on the Road
Faro is the capital of the Algarve and attracts tourists for several reasons. The coastal town offers a lot to indulge in, from sunny beaches and dolphin watching to amazing seafood.
The city has long been a popular destination in Portugal and attracts tourists who are looking to relax and unwind. It is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal due to its cultural essence and rich history. Faro is a fascinating city with its well-preserved beauty.
The beautiful historic centre, the Cidade Velha of Faro is surrounded by ancient walls and has a gothic church, the Paco Episcopal palace, and streets paved in cobblestones. Behind the walls, there is a modern city with shopping centres, pedestrian streets, numerous bars and restaurants, and scenic plazas.
It is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal due to the effortless blend between old and new. From historic cathedrals to shopping streets, it has everything a tourist would ask for.
For the best sightseeing in Faro, check out the Faro Cathedral, Arco da Vila, Cidade Velha, Ria Formosa Cruise, Island beaches, Igreja do Carmo, Faro Municipal Museum, Muralhas de Faro and Praia de Faro.
Wondering where to stay in Algarve? Faro has accommodation for every budget and taste, but book well in advance, especially in summer.
Where to stay in Faro
Roots Apartment Hotel
Roots Apartment Hotel is a brand new aparthotel, located near the Igreja do Carmo. Air-conditioned units come with self-catering facilities which makes them perfect for longer stays. Small pool on site, free WiFi and private parking. Continental or vegetarian breakfast available.
Fatima: A Beautiful Place in Portugal for Pilgrims & Tourists
By Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Fatima is a small town in central Portugal, about an hour’s drive north of Lisbon. It might be small in size, but Fatima is known by millions all over the world. It is good to visit on a day trip, but there are lots to see and do, so a day or two should be better to appreciate it best.
The town is a popular pilgrimage destination for Catholics all over the world, and it is one of Europe’s most visited holy sites.
It’s said that the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children here and performed a series of miracles, including the miracle of the sun, which 70,000 people witnessed. Even if you are not a believer, you should not miss out on this great day trip from Lisbon.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima is a breathtaking sight that is definitely worth seeing. A wonderful old cathedral, shrines and much more can be found in this massive plaza. This pilgrimage complex is open to the public for free, but remember to be respectful and remember that this is a holy site.
Also make a point of visiting the Museu Interativo, a small museum that explores the history and significance of Fátima.
For the best photos, consider using a polarizing filter to bring out the contrasts between the white buildings and the blue sky.
Where to stay in Fatima
Coração de Fatima
Situated adjacent to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, Coração de Fatima is the best place to stay in Fatima. Good views of the Sanctuary from your balcony and guests love the buffet breakfast with continental and local delicacies.
Tomar
By Stephanie from History Fangirl
Tomar is a city in the central region of Portugal. It is part of the Metropolitan Area of Tomar e Castanheira do Ribatejo.
The town has an interesting history. It started as a convent and then became an important military base. The castle and monastery were built to protect pilgrims who would stop by on their way to the Holy Land during the crusades.
Most visitors come to see The Convent of Christ Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was established in 1160 by the Order of the Knights Templar.
The convent is known for its Manueline architecture as well as the amazing views. Henry the Navigator build one of the chapels in the fifteenth century, and many other Portuguese monarchs left their mark on this important Portuguese landmark.
The convent is the most famous landmark in Tomar, but it’s not the only reason to visit! Come to see the Pegões Aqueduct, Tomar’s Old Town, and the Chapel of Saint Gregório.
Tomar is easily reached from both Lisbon and Porto but Tomar is also a destination in its own right, and it’s worth spending a day or two here. The town is very easy to drive, and this will allow you to see sites like the aqueduct that isn’t as easily reached by public transportation.
Where to stay in Tomar
Thomar Boutique Hotel
The new Thomar Boutique Hotel offers comfortable, tastefully decorated rooms, an eggcellent breakfast, parking, and friendly staff right in the centre of town.
Beautiful Places in Portugal: Where Will You Go Next?
Where is the prettiest place in Portugal? Let us know in the comments below, or also tell us if we missed one that we can add. Enjoy your trip to Portugal – It’s full of beautiful places.