Portugal is a beautiful and vibrant country located in the Iberian Peninsula. With its stunning coastlines, rugged mountains, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no surprise that Portugal has become a popular tourist destination. From beach towns to historic cities, here are 13 top places to visit in Portugal that you won’t want to miss!
1. Lisbon: Portugal’s vibrant capital city is one of Europe’s most charming cities. Located on the Tagus River estuary, Lisbon is renowned for its sunny climate and eclectic culture. Explore narrow cobblestone streets, sample regional cuisine like bacalhau (codfish), or take one of the iconic yellow trams through the city center. Don’t forget to visit Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery – two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are just a short distance away from Lisbon.
2. Sintra: This small town near Lisbon is famous for its fairytale-like palaces and lush gardens, which have captivated visitors since the Romantic era. Wander through cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings or explore nearby attractions like Pena Palace and Moorish Castle. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious local pastries while you’re there!
3. Porto: This coastal city in northern Portugal is home to spectacular views along the Douro River Valley, tasty port wine cellars, and impressive baroque architecture at every turn. Visit medieval churches such as Se Cathedral or explore Porto’s traditional backstreets known as “ruas” for an authentic taste of life in this bustling port city.
4. Coimbra: This university town in central Portugal has plenty to offer visitors interested in history and culture. Start your sightseeing at the University of Coimbra – Portugal’s oldest university – before exploring nearby attractions like Santa Cruz Monastery or Machado de Castro Museum, both featuring fine examples of Romanesque architecture.
5. Azores Islands: These nine volcanic islands off the coast of Portugal have become increasingly popular among international travelers due to their untouched beauty and unique wildlife species such as dolphins, whales, manatees, seals, and more than 20 species of birds found nowhere else on earth! Enjoy picturesque landscapes while hiking along trails full of waterfalls and lush forests or take part in activities like windsurfing or snorkeling around these stunning islands – you won’t regret it!
6. Algarve Region: Situated south of Lisbon lies this postcard-perfect region where golden beaches meet crystal clear waters – perfect for swimming or sailing around its many coves! Take a trip down towards Sagres Point for spectacular views across Europe’s westernmost coastline before heading inland for ancient villages filled with whitewashed houses surrounded by rolling hillsides covered with olive groves and vineyards – an absolute must-see!
7. Evora: This walled city situated east of Lisbon boasts an idyllic old town full of historical monuments dating back centuries including Roman temples such as Diana Temple built during the 2nd century BC or 16th century aqueducts that once supplied drinking water from hillsides over 40 kilometers away from Evora itself! Moreover, don’t miss out on tasting some local delicacies such as “migas,” a corn porridge that comes served with various toppings including olives, eggs but also clams or pork rinds – yum!
8 .Alentejo Region : As you continue your journey eastwards into this hidden corner of southern Portugal you will discover a mix between rolling hills spotted with wildflowers , sleepy villages carved into sandy cliffs overlooking golden beaches plus castles straight out from fairy tales – all backed up by warm people attentive to tradition – what more could you ask ? Plus be sure not too miss out on sampling Alentejo´s famous dishes such as “Açorda alentejana,” a kind og garlic bread topped with poached eggs cooked in olive oil – delicious !
9 . Madeira Island : Last but not least , madeira island ( sometimes referred as “ Pearl Of The Atlantic Ocean “) provides breathtaking scenery thanks to its lush mountainside , picturesque fishing villages scattered across rugged cliffs plus lavish botanical gardens making it a paradise – especially if you are looking for more nature oriented experiences ! Plus make sure also too check out Pico do Areiro ,the highest peak on this tiny archipelago which rises almost 2000 meters above sea level providing panoramic views across entire island .
10 . The Douro Valley : Take time too explore this mesmerizing valley carved between cliffs , vineyards stretching along steep hillside plus terraced fields planted with everything from olives trees too almond trees all creating an amazing landscape ! You can travel downriver taking one long boat tour or a series of shorter trips -allowing you to visit remote villages and historic monuments located in the region. Plus make sure not too miss out on trying some local delicacies such as fresh goat cheese , cured meats plus wines from world class wineries .
11. Obidos : This lovely medieval town located almost 100 kilometers north from Lisbon offers visitors an amazing cultural experience thanks to its cobbled alleyways filled with small shops, quaint cafes plus churches with ancient frescoes! Definitely worth adding this beautiful fortified village to your list !
12. Coimbra : Located in central Portugal , this large city has plenty to offer visitors interested in history and culture . Start your sightseeing at the University of Coimbra -one of the oldest universities in Europe , then wander through its cobbled streets admiring many monuments such as Coimbra’s cathedral, old cloisters plus ancient fortifications before heading down to the riverside for some breathtaking views across this city !
13. Azores Islands : Situated almost 900 kilometers west from Lisbon lies these nine islands – each offering something unique and spectacular . From whale watching tours too hiking trails and snorkeling around these stunning islands – you won’t regret it! Whether you are looking for an adventure filled with nature or prefer more tranquil experiences , the Azores provide visitors with plenty of options making it a perfect destination for any kind of traveler.
So there you have it – 13 amazing places worth visiting in Portugal that will make your holidays unforgettable ! From picturesque villages and lush forests too incredible beaches and culinary delights – there is something for everyone to enjoy ! So don’t wait any longer and start planning your next getaway – you won’t regret it!