Places of interest in Portugal that you mustn’t miss
Beaches that’ll make you feel like you’re in paradise, fairytale castles, vibrant cities and Belém tarts: we want to go to Portugal RIGHT NOW. What’s more, if you’re on a tight budget but want to travel, Portugal is going to be your go-to destination this summer. The food is absolutely delicious — and cheap — and many Portuguese hostels have won awards year after year. Whether you prefer the beach or are more into mountain hikes, Portugal is waiting for you. Here’s the definitive list: Portugal: places of interest.
Now that you know just how brilliant it is, we’re going to share with you a list of the best destinations, what to see and what to do in Portugal. You can choose between islands or cities; the coast or the mountains. Whatever you choose, we know you’re going to fall in love with the country. It’s time to discover Portugal’s top attractions!
-
Sintra
In Sintra, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale. It’s one of the prettiest towns in Portugal. Historic castles, luxurious mansions and idyllic gardens where you could lose yourself for days (you won’t want to leave!). It’s one of the best destinations in Portugal for day trips, but if you don’t have too many days to spend in Sintra, we recommend hiring a bike-taxi. It’s the best way to explore the town and even see the Pena National Palace, the Moorish Castle and the Montserrat Palace — each one more stunning than the last. So, if you’re wondering what to do in Portugal, head to what’s sure to be the town of your dreams.
If you want to eat on a budget, plan your meals in advance, buy some olives and other snacks, and enjoy a picnic with the best views. Avoid the tourist crowds by going early and steering clear of weekends.
-
Azores
If you want to get away from it all and enjoy a holiday without tourists or queues, the Azores are the place for you. As they’re a long way from the mainland, the Azores haven’t yet been overrun by tourists. If you love nature, exploring and surfing, then these islands are for you.
The Azores are perfect if you’re on a budget. The islands have plenty of spots to explore and, as you’ll be outdoors, you won’t have to spend a penny! For the best views, follow the coastal routes. Start at Praia-Lagoa do Fogo and finish at Lagoa do Fogo (a lake in a volcanic crater where you can take a dip after your walk).
-
Lisbon
If you’re not sure what to see in Portugal, you’ll probably head straight to Lisbon. Lisbon has become one of the best cities for backpacking in Europe, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s basically on every list of places to visit in Portugal. To discover this historic city, avoid the tourist bus and hop on Tram 28. Despite the lack of air conditioning in summer, it’s the best way to explore Lisbon quickly, authentically and on a budget.
After seeing the city’s most famous sights, such as the Belém Tower or the Santa Justa Lift (among the most famous spots in Portugal), it’s time to lose yourself in the capital’s streets. You’ll find street art, creative spaces (take a stroll through underground Lisbon), and the best spots for a coffee all around you. Come evening, you’ll discover a whole new side to Lisbon. They’re said to have the best parties (don’t forget to visit Lux Fragil) and bars in the whole of Europe. Get your night off to a good start in the old red-light district, Cais do Sodré. You also can’t miss Bairro Alto, where the locals gather to drink beer and meet people!
Head to Restaurante Bonjardim to enjoy some piri-piri chicken at a great price. But there’s no better way to recover from a long night out than by heading to A Mereneira — try the soup of the day and the chorizo sandwich. There’s so much to see and do in Lisbon!
-
Lagos
Lagos is Portugal’s south-easternmost town and has it all: it’s rustic, brimming with culture and boasts the best weather (for spending the day on the beach). We recommend eating at Beats & Burritos, a small stall serving South American food at very reasonable prices. Try their chilli sauce and the delicious quinoa bowls.
What makes Lagos so special is its coastline. Two miles away is Ponta da Piedade, a rock formation jutting out into the ocean, popular with tourists — it’s well worth a visit. They say the best sunsets in Portugal are here, and they’re even better with a nice cold beer in hand.
-
Cascais
Cascais is just an hour from Lisbon, on the Atlantic coast. Here you can wander through the historic centre, relax on its most famous beach (it’s not hard to see why), Guincho Beach, and explore the coastline around Boca do Inferno. To savour delicious traditional Portuguese food, head to Melody. You’ll love it!
-
Porto
Porto is, basically, a Lisbon with fewer tourists. All the history, its beautiful streets and even its Belém tarts (the best thing about Portugal?) are here. It’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe — and one you simply can’t miss.
Explore the Ribeira district and soak up the sun in one of the hundreds of cafés or bars. Just like in Lisbon, you won’t need to plan a thing in Porto. Head out onto the streets with a smile and enjoy getting lost in its streets, tucking into the best local food and chatting to the locals. That said, we’ve also listed the main tourist attractions, in case you fancy visiting them too. Head to the Clérigos Tower and enjoy a nice cold drink at the Portologia bar afterwards.
If you’re keen on adventure and discovering new cities in Portugal, head to Aveiro, a town near Porto, where you can try the famous “Ovos Moles”. Another of the best places to visit in Portugal!
-
Tomar
Right in the centre of Portugal you’ll find Tomar, one of the country’s prettiest towns — and one of the most historic too. Don’t leave without visiting the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re after a slightly different experience, head to the Match Museum, a museum dedicated entirely to matches (considered one of the best museums in the world!). But then again, if matches aren’t your thing, you can give it a miss. You could also visit Almourol Castle. You can sit on one of its rocks overlooking the lake – a brilliant spot to watch the sunset.
-
Sagres
Sagres is one of the westernmost points in Europe. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty Portugal has to offer. Don’t forget to visit Sagres Fortress, an incredible fort overlooking the Atlantic. It’s a bit out of the way, but it’s well worth the extra walk to see it. Also pop into the family-run restaurant A Casinha, where they serve Portuguese food that’ll have you licking your fingers.
If you’ve brought your surfboard, head to Mareta Beach and ride its giant waves. If you’re more into hiking, there are countless trails around Cape St Vincent. You won’t believe the views from its cliffs. Best of all, there aren’t any tourists, even in the height of summer!
-
Ericeira
Famous for its incredible waves, Ericeira is the ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts. Not only that, but it has also won several awards for having the best surf schools for all types of surfers (from beginners to pros). But if you’re not into surfing, Ericeira’s still the place for you. It’s got some gorgeous beaches!
After all that surfing, you’ll be thirsty! Head to ADEGA bar. This traditional bar is perfect for a laid-back afternoon (they’ve got live music!) – you won’t want to leave.
-
Faro, Algarve
On the southern coast of the Algarve region lies Faro, a student town that every backpacker should visit. It’s one of the most popular cities in Portugal, and one of the best places to lose yourself in its vibrant streets. If you want to avoid the tourists in summer, head to Barreta Island (also known as Deserta Island). Just hop on a 30-minute ferry from the centre of Faro and you’ll feel like you’re in paradise. Think white sandy beaches, endless sunshine, and beaches perfect for a dip.
As it’s a city full of students, you’ll find bars on every corner — and they’re incredibly cheap. If you want to save money on food too, we recommend heading to Tasty! They have the best chicken wings in the world.
Hostels are the best thing about Portugal
Artistic vibe atYes! Lisbon Hostel ?@emmalucey
Mmmm… have we mentioned how delicious Portuguese food is, and how great the hostels are?Book your hostel in Portugal NOW!
Save this pin to read later ?
Do you have any other recommendations? Let us know in the comments!
Get the App.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.