Portugal is just one of those places that should be on everyone’s bucket list, whether you know nothing about this beautiful country (you will soon!), or you’ve been planning a trip for forever. Portugal is such a versatile and diverse country with every terrain imaginable from sandy beaches, lush mountains, rolling hills, and bustling cities that will make you feel so alive!
It can be overwhelming when figuring out where exactly to visit and what to do since there are so many amazing sites here to see, but we’ve narrowed it down to the top most unique and prettiest places to visit. This guide will highlight the most beautiful places in Portugal from iconic cities to explore, beautiful hotels to stay at, and historical culture sites that will take your breath away.
Portuguese Islands
The most stunning places in Portugal? Its archipelagos. The Azores and Madeira Islands are more than just breathtaking landscapes; they’re a haven for relaxation and adventure seekers alike. From volcanic craters, lush greenery, and fab hiking trails, there’s so much to see and do! Or you can simply unwind on its pristine beaches.
1. Madeira
One of the unusual things about Madeira is it’s actually closer to Africa than it is Portugal. It is the largest island of a four-island archipelago and is famously known as the “Hawaii of Europe” for its crystal blue oceans, lush mountains, and beautiful flora. Go on whale and dolphin watching tours, visit one of its beautiful beaches, hike in the mountains, and shop in old town.
The most populous city in Madeira is its capital, Funchal, where you’ll get to explore the city and its surrounding scenery. See the city from a bird’s eye view by taking the Funchal Cable Car up the mountains to see Monte Palace, a tropical garden filled with beautiful plants that would make for some cool photos.
The best way to travel is by renting a car since this is a more remote part of Portugal. There is no Uber, but there is Bolt (you’ll need to download the app). By renting your own car, you’ll get to travel on your terms without having to worry about calling for a car and getting stranded somewhere.
Madeira is known for their many wine cellars, so stay at the Socalco Natural Hotel, located in a vineyard in Estreito da Calheta. This stunning hotel is clean and airy with huge windows that show off an impressive ocean view.
2. Azores
The Azores are an archipelago of nine islands located in the mid-Atlantic most well-known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. These islands are reachable by plane or ferry and would make for a fantastic stop from a major bustling city like Lisbon. This slice of paradise is most ideal during the warmer seasons when the wildlife is in bloom and the days are warm and sunny.
Late summer and early fall would also be a great time to visit when the crowds have died down and the weather has cooled. If you could only visit one of the islands, I would recommend visiting the largest of the nine islands, São Miguel, which is also your best bet for traveling to the other eight surrounding islands. T
The island has everything to offer from beautiful beaches, a tea factory, beautiful cliff views, hot springs, and small towns. The most famous landscape, Sete Cidades, is found here and is considered to be one of the seven wonders of Portugal. Overall, the islands are great places to visit for kayaking, viewing volcanic activity, hiking, and whale watching.
If you decide to stay in Sao Miguel, check out Caloura, a hotel resort located in the tiny coastal town of Lagoa. This municipality is the perfect blend of being isolated in nature while still being able to experience small town vibes. The hotel itself sits upon a cliff and offers front row seats to the beautiful Atlantic ocean.
Northern Portugal
Escape the crowds of tourist favorites (we love them, but there’s more to see!), and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Northern Portugal. From the historic city of Porto to the breathtaking Douro Valley, this region offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy.
3. Hotel Monverde
Hotel Monverde is one of the most unique and luxurious hotels I have had the pleasures of staying at and one that I think about constantly. Located in Amarante, I stayed here during my wine-tasting week while traveling around the Vinho Verde region and it made for an excellent home base while exploring Portugal’s vineyards.
This hotel is super unique for many reasons and one of the highlights is that you can blend your own wine here (super cool experience!). The vines growing right outside your room are the same ones that are made into wines, which you can enjoy a glass of at dinner.
Besides the amazing wine, the pool might be even more amazing. The cobblestone exterior of the hotel mixed with the golden light of the Portugal sunset makes for a stunning backdrop to have a delicious glass of wine on one of the lounge chairs. Just thinking of Hotel Monverde makes me feel dreamy and takes me back to my magical time here.
4. Porto
Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and arguably one of the most beautiful and diverse. It has everything that Lisbon offers but less crowded, more walkable, and has more of a traditional feel.
Start the day by visiting the famous São Bento train station for its stunning blue tiles and architecture. Then take a river cruise down the Douro River to admire the scenery of Porto. For lunch, you have to do a food and wine tour as the city is known for its wine production. Spend the rest of the day visiting the Porto Cathedral, Parque de Sao Roque, and Livraria Lello (the famous “Harry Potter” book store).
For hotels, a bougier option, but one that is highly raved about is Hospes Infante Sagres Porto. This is an absolutely STUNNING property that somehow feels both chic and modern, yet vintage. This is a classy and comfortable choice that is also conveniently located in the bustle of the city while still being close to the Douro River.
5. Amarante
Feel the romantic atmosphere of Portugal in the small but extraordinary city of Amarante. This riverfront old village is steeped in history and only an hour drive from Porto. As one of the oldest settlements in northern Portugal, Amarante is home to many ancient structures from hundreds of years ago.
Take a walk and marvel in the presence of the sixth highest mountain in Portugal, Serra do Marão, towering over the buildings and the river Tamega. Most famous is the Ponte de São Gonçalo, an arched stone bridge that crosses that looks straight out of a fairytale.
There are so many hotels to choose from, but if you’re looking for a cooler/ less traditional experience, Peso Village is a mountain vacation home with a winery and outdoor pool. The property is modern and surrounded by lush trees and shrubbery which makes you feel secluded in your own mini paradise.
6. Costa Nova do Prado
Only an hour away from Porto, you will find the cutest beach houses in the charming coastal town of Costa Nova do Prado. These colorful striped houses line a sandy beach and make for a relaxing day trip away from the city.
Praia da Costa Nova is popular amongst surfers, while Aveiro Lagoon is more inland and has calmer waters great for kayaking.
Costa Nova Hotel is an affordable and convenient option located right by Costa Nova Beach. This hotel offers views of the iconic pinstriped houses and is equipped with a bar and lounge, perfect for relaxing.
7. Douro Valley Wine Tasting
What would be a trip to Portugal without doing at least one wine tasting experience? Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is about a 2 hour train ride east from Porto and one that we recommend taking as it has one of the oldest wine regions in the world, Barca de Alva.
The cultivated hills of Douro Valley are breathtaking to see and every vine grown there is steeped in rich history spanning back hundreds of years. You’ll visit to taste the splendid selection of wines, but leave with a new profound appreciation for the heritage of the region from its historic railway station to its old rabelo boats.
To take the stress out of planning, book a Douro Valley wine tasting trip and take a leisurely cruise down the Douro River while sipping wine while njoying a traditional European lunch–there’s nothing quite like it!
8. Melgaço
Melgaço is a super cute town in the northern part of Portugal on the border of Spain.
Melgaco is most well-known for its wineries and vineyards and a favorite of ours is wine tasting at Quinta da Aveleda. This is a GORGEOUS winery filled with flora and trees that offers an exceptional selection of wines–we could not recommend it enough!!
A super affordable option when staying here is Monte Prado & Spa. This hotel is surrounded by a lush forest and amazing views of the rolling hills. Most notably, the hotel offers an indoor and outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring the city.
9. Peneda-Geres
As a wildlife enthusiast I HAVE to recommend visiting Portugal’s only national park, Peneda-Geres. This protected region is full of rich history, trees, cliffs, rivers, and historic ruins that would make for a perfect adventure away from the cities.
Spanning nearly 270 square miles, Peneda-Geres is home to a plethora of wildlife like deer, wolves, and eagles. Visiting this national park is like stepping into another world where you’ll be immersed in human history spanning back thousands of years back.
The rugged mountain ranges have been plowed into fields and pastures that are home to home cattle. On your hikes throughout the park you’ll see waterfalls, lakes, villages, beautiful wildlife and plants, including a flower found nowhere else called the Serra do Gerês iris!
The national park is only one and a half hours away from Porto, so it would make for a great day trip. However, I would recommend taking your time to enjoy the hidden gem of Peneda-Geres by staying at the nearby spa town Geres. Hotel Carvalho Araújo is an adorable (and affordable) riverfront hotel surrounded by the rolling hills of the park that would be a great place to stay for a couple days to really soak in the serene Geres region.
10. Braga
Located in the northern region of Portugal is the cultural city of Braga, known for its heritage events. Once the seat of the Roman Empire, it is now the capital of the northern Minho region. Braga is teeming with history and culture and popular amongst young people as many students study at the universities here.
Braga is home to many historical and iconic landmarks such as the Bom Jesus do Monte Basílica, which means “Good Jesus of the Mount” and marks the site of Christian pilgrimage. Braga Cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, is also a must-visit for its breathtaking golden interior architecture. There are so many more historical sites to see like Sameiro Sanctuary and Arco da Porta Nova.
Besides historical sites, Braga in general is a beautiful town and I would recommend visiting the city center. Finish the day off by walking along the avenue of liberty, which is the perfect place to shop and take in the warm Portugal sunset.
Vila Galé Collection Braga is conveniently located by Braga Cathedral and Bom Jesus do Monte. Not to mention, the front of the property and interior is absolutely GORGEOUS and resembles the cathedrals of the town with its arches and tiles.
Southern Portugal
Southern Portugal is a sunny paradise renowned for its stunning coastline, golden beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. Discover the Algarve’s hidden coves, historic towns, and world-class golf courses while indulging in fresh seafood and warm hospitality.
12. The Algarve Region
Take a break from the busy tourist destinations by visiting the stunning coastal region of the Algarve. Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, Algarve hugs the Atlantic ocean and is filled with charming seaside villages and sandy beaches.
Start the day by going on a relaxing morning walk along the beach, followed by renting a kayak and swimming in the ocean. End the day with a trip into town to dine at one of the restaurants.
While Algarve is most well-known for its beaches and resorts, make sure to not miss out on other activities like hiking the Seven Hangings Valley Trail, which will take you along the region’s beautiful landscape from its cliffs to its cave.
Check out the stunning resort, Tivoli Carvoeiro, located in Praia do Carvoeiro. This hotel is conveniently located near Carvoeiro Beach. The rooms have balconies which offer amazing views of the resort AND the rooftop lounge has an absolutely breathtaking view of Algarve, so you’ll never miss a moment in this beautiful region.
13. Comporta
Portugal has SO MANY stunning beaches and Comporta might be one of their best kept secrets. Located in the southern part of Portugal on the Atlantic Coast, this tiny coastal town is the perfect place to escape from the crowds of the city.
Keep in mind that Comporta is truly a lowkey and quiet town, so don’t expect to find a bar around every corner, BUT this can be the perfect place to find your inner peace and truly experience the sereness of Portugal’s coast. This is also a great time to try out new activities like horseback riding across the various landscapes, biking through rice paddies, and boating across the gentle waters.
AlmaLusa Comporta is located near Comporta Beach and is a stunning rustic colored property that offers free breakfast and beautiful views of the city. It’s conveniently located near all the fun outdoor activities I talked about, so you can really take it easy and enjoy your time in this tranquil beach town.
Central Portugal
Rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, Central Portugal is probably one of the more popular spots for visitors. And for good reason… From the vibrant capital of Lisbon with hidden gems around every corner to the enchanting Sintra Mountains, this area offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.
14. Lisbon
The heart and capital of Portugal, Lisbon is an undeniably stunning coastal town. If you go to Portugal, this city HAS to be on the top of your list. AND you can manage to fully experience the city in only 3 days using this itinerrary! This itinerary will cover multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, miradouros, and architecture.
Charm oozes from every corner of this historical town from its narrow cobbled streets and colorful buildings. Start your day at Commerce Square, and no matter where you walk you’ll see some amazing sites like Lisbon Cathedral, Jerónimos Monastery, and the National Tile Museum. Whether you go sailing in the crystal clear waters, take a trolley down Alfama, or visit Castle Sao Jorge – you’ll be immersed in the magical atmosphere of Portugal’s capital city.
While this is a hot spot for tourists, I wouldn’t avoid it just because of the busy crowds. Visit during the shoulder season to avoid the crowds of peak season AND enjoy the slightly cooler weather.
Baixa de Lisbon, a historic commercial center, is a safe bet when booking hotels. You might prefer staying somewhere that is staffed 24/7 and this is a great place to book hotels like that! We recommend checking out the Lisboa Pessoa Hotel, an adults-only hotel near Rossio Square. The terrace patio offers amazing views of the city from above and the rooms are modern and chic. There’s no better place to feel bougie and relaxed than a city like this.
15. Sintra
Located to the west of Lisbon and at the foothills of the Sintra mountains is the pastel-painted town of Sintra.
Sintra is a city straight out of a fairytale book and is known for its many castles, most famously the Pena Palace. Head there first when it opens to beat the crowd and have ample time to explore the surrounding lands and gardens.
Next, head to Moorish Castle for the best place to view all of Sintra. Wear comfortable walking shoes because there will be many stairs to climb! Finally, head down to Quinta da Regaleira, which has some of the coolest architecture, like the initiation well, that will lead you to a waterfall.
Be immersed in the center of city life by staying at Sintra Bliss Hotel. The hotel is super close to the castles I mentioned above and less than a ten minute walk from the Sintra National Palace. A big perk is that it is also only thirty minutes away from the airport! The hotel is clean and chic and the perfect place to wake up every morning and be able to begin your day right at Sintra’s front steps!
16. Fatima
The beautiful city of Fatima is important in the Catholic community and is recognised as a prominent pilgrimage site. Known as Portugal’s holy city, Fatima is known for its Sanctuary of Our Lady Fatima, constructed in remembrance of the apparitions of Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917, giving the town its religious significance.
The events of the apparitions are memorialized at the Chapel of the Apparitions and is considered to be the heart of Fatima. Statues of the apparitions can be found at Laca do Cabeco, the Well of Arneiro, and Valinhos.
Stay at the Mercure Fátima, conveniently located near the Church of the Most Holy Trinity and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima. Full of sprawling white-stoned structures, statues, and historical significance, Fatima is a city you won’t want to miss.
17. Óbidos
This one is for our history buffs, fantasy lovers and romantics. The fairytale town of Óbidos is an absolute hidden gem. It’s a completely preserved medieval village and walled city with SO MANY BEAUTIFUL PHOTO OPPS. In the center is a giant castle museum filled with history. Really something for everyone, and completely unexpected as you drive into the village.
As you can see, there is just so much to experience in Portugal! I recommend choosing a diverse range of locations that will let you try everything Portugal has to offer like wine tasting in Douro valley, visiting a nature reserve in Peneda-Gerês national park, and viewing whitewashed houses on one of the many beaches.
No matter what you pick, you’ll be enriched with the sights, sounds, and tastes of Portugal’s culture and make memories that will last a lifetime.
