Located on the western coast of the Iberian peninsula, Portugal is one of the most visited countries of Europe because of its idyllic environment, low travel costs and exclusive attractions.
The diverse geography of Portugal varies from green mountains and northern wineyards to beautiful beaches in the Algarve along the southern coastline.
The archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira, known for their lush landscapes and flower gardens, both belong to Portugal but situated in the Atlantic Ocean.
Here’s a glimpse at Portugal’s best places to visit.
No. 10 Coimbra
Coimbra A beautiful city on the Mondego River, Coimbra offers a treasure trove of historical sites and a vibrant culture, based around one of the oldest universities in Europe.
One of the best things to do in Coimbra is simply to get lost and explore the many historic attractions from the magnificent Old Cathedral to the Gothic Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha which houses Queen Isabel’s grave.
Without a visit to Coimbra University no trip would be full to enjoy one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
No. 9 The Azores
The Azores Archipelago is made up of nine Atlantic volcanic islands situated about 930 miles west of Lisbon.
Every island is renowned for its world-class whale watching, hot mineral springs and picturesque seaside resorts.
São Miguel is the largest Azorean island and is nicknamed “the Green Island,” and Pico is home to Portugal’s highest mountain.
No. 8 Aveiro
Aveiro is a vibrant city also called “the Venice of Portugal” on Portugal’s Central Atlantic Coast due to its picturesque setting of scenic canals linked by charming bridges and dotted with colorful gondolas.
Aveiro is also a popular tourist destination for historic sites, beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine.
The Cathedral of Aveiro, São Gonçalinho Chapel and the Convent of Jesus are many sightseeing highlights. These all deliver beautiful architecture and works of art.
No. 7 Evora
Evora may be a small town in southern Portugal, but it is very appealing to visitors.
With more than 2000 years of history, Evora was once a thriving Roman city. Evora currently houses more than 4,000 historic buildings, including the ancient Roman walls and temples.
Another highlight is Evora Cathedral, one of the most prominent gothic buildings in Portugal, from the 13th century.
Not far outside the city is the largest prehistoric megalith complex in Europe that is also worth a visit.
No. 6 Porto
Porto World famous for its fine port wine quality, the busy city of Porto stretches along the Douro hills in northern Portugal.
The Ribeira, a beautiful pedestrian area, is at the heart of Porto and is an environment along the river with live music, cafés, restaurants and street vendors.
This popular tourist area is dominated by the Ponte Dom Luis bridge, a metal arched double-deck bridge that connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, famous for its port wine cellars.
No. 5 Madeira
Madeira With its nickname “Atlantic Floating Garden,” Madeira is a beautiful oasis between Portugal and North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, renowned for its lush green forests, flower gardens, and wines.
Must see the Orchid Garden and the Laurissilva Forest in Madeira which holds the largest concentration of laurel in the world.
Funchal, home to historical churches and fortresses and the tree-lined promenade of Lido, provides spectacular views of the ocean, is the capital and largest city of Madeira.
No. 4 Sintra
Nestled at the foot of the Sintra mountains on the coast of Lisbon, Sintra is surrounded by beautiful castles and houses.
The most prominent of these is Pena’s Castle, a magnificent castle that resembles Neuschwanstein in Germany.
The Pena’s Palace was built in the middle of the 1800s and was a summer resort to the Portuguese empire. It is surrounded by forested parks with rare trees and flowers.
The ancient ruins of the Moors castle crowning the city’s highest hill and the charming Monserrate Palace with its subtropical gardens are not to be missed.
No. 3 Obidos
Obidos Situated on a hilltop, Obidos is protected by an ancient defensive wall in the middle of western Portugal.
The magnificent medieval castle and historic center of Obidos are the main attraction of the town beside the wall and you can walk easily.
A labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets leads tourists through busy squares, picturesque shops and whitewashed houses with colorful flowers.
The castle with its commanding structure, massive gateways and towers is now a luxury hotel, but a wonder.
No. 2 Algarve
Algarve Sunny Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, picturesque cities, fantastic cuisine and inexpensive costs make the Algarve one of Portugal’s most popular destinations.
In the country’s southernmost area, the Algarve offers an eye-catching feast, from quiet olive grove landscapes to wild traditional snow-covered villages to windy coastlines and stunning cliffs with summer resorts.
Faro is the capital of the country and Lagos is the hot spot for nightlife.
No. 1 Lisbon
Lisbon, which extends on the banks of the river Tagus near the Atlantic Ocean, winds up between 7 steep hills and the city’s largest capital, to create an enchanting and varied destination, reverberating in traditional fado music.
The oldest part of the city is Alfama, an ancient Moorish quarter, which is characteristic for its labyrinth of cobbled streets, rustic architecture and Castle of St. George.
Lisbon is best experienced by taking one of the antique trams, such as the well-known Tram 28 that passes through historic districts, gardens and major attractions.
