Portugal is one of Europe’s most loved travel destinations — and for good reason. From historic cities and dramatic coastlines to world-class food and affordable travel costs, Portugal offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, couple, or family traveler, this guide covers the best places to visit in Portugal, top attractions, itineraries, costs, and insider tips.
Why Visit Portugal?
Portugal consistently ranks among the best places to travel in Europe thanks to:
Stunning beaches and coastal towns
Rich history and architecture
Delicious food and wine
Friendly locals and safe cities
Affordable prices compared to Western Europe
It’s ideal for first-time Europe travelers and seasoned explorers alike.
Best Places to Visit in Portugal
Here are the top Portugal tourist destinations you shouldn’t miss:
1. Lisbon
Portugal’s vibrant capital blends old-world charm with modern energy.
Why visit:
Historic neighborhoods, iconic trams, viewpoints, nightlife, and food.
Top Portugal tourist attractions in Lisbon:
Belém Tower
Jerónimos Monastery
Alfama district
São Jorge Castle
LX Factory
Things to do in Portugal (Lisbon edition):
Ride Tram 28
Sunset at Miradouros
Fado music experience
✅Check best hotels in Lisbon
2. Porto
A riverside city famous for wine, architecture, and romantic views.
Why visit:
Charming old town and wine culture.
Top attractions:
Ribeira District
Dom Luís I Bridge
Livraria Lello
Douro River cruise
Porto is one of the best places to travel in Portugal for couples.
✅Check best hotels in Porto
3. Algarve
Home to Portugal’s most famous beaches.
Best towns: Lagos, Faro, Albufeira, Tavira
Why visit:
Golden cliffs, caves, surf spots, and beach resorts.
Portugal tourist attractions in Algarve:
Benagil Cave
Praia da Marinha
Ponta da Piedade
Perfect for beach lovers and summer vacations.
4. Sintra
A fairytale town near Lisbon.
Why visit:
Palaces, castles, and lush hills.
Must-see places:
Pena Palace
Moorish Castle
Quinta da Regaleira
One of the most magical places to visit in Portugal.
5. Madeira
A scenic Atlantic island known for nature and adventure.
Why visit:
Hiking, cliffs, viewpoints, and mild weather year-round.
Top attractions:
Pico do Arieiro
Funchal
Laurisilva Forest
Ideal for nature lovers and honeymooners.
✅Check best hotels in Madeira
6. Azores
A group of volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean.
Why visit:
Raw nature, lakes, whales, and hot springs.
Top experiences:
Whale watching
Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Natural thermal pools
One of the most underrated Portugal tourist destinations.
✅Check best hotels in Azores
7. Coimbra
Portugal’s historic university city.
Why visit:
Old university, student culture, medieval streets.
✅Check best hotels in Coimbra
8. Braga
Known as Portugal’s religious capital.
Top attraction:
Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary
9. Évora
A UNESCO-listed city in the Alentejo region.
Why visit:
Roman ruins, whitewashed streets, wine culture.
✅Check best hotels in Evora
10. Cascais
A coastal town near Lisbon.
Why visit:
Beaches, cafes, relaxed vibe.
✅Check best hotels in Cascais
Top Portugal Tourist Attractions
Some unmissable attractions across the country:
Belém Tower
Pena Palace
Benagil Cave
Douro Valley
Jerónimos Monastery
Ribeira District
Ponta da Piedade
These are among the most photographed Portugal tourist attractions.
Best Beaches in Portugal
Praia da Marinha (Algarve)
Praia da Rocha (Portimão)
Praia do Camilo (Lagos)
Guincho Beach (near Lisbon)
Porto Santo Beach (Madeira)
Portugal is easily one of Europe’s top beach destinations.
Things to Do in Portugal
Here are some unforgettable things to do in Portugal:
Ride historic trams in Lisbon
Go wine tasting in Douro Valley
Surf in Nazaré or Ericeira
Explore medieval villages
Watch sunset from cliff viewpoints
Enjoy seafood and pastries
Where to Stay in Portugal (Best Areas)
Lisbon
Best areas: Baixa, Alfama, Chiado, Bairro Alto
Ideal for sightseeing and nightlife
Porto
Best areas: Ribeira, Cedofeita
Great for views and walking tours
Algarve
Best areas: Lagos (beaches), Faro (transport hub), Albufeira (resorts)
Madeira
Best area: Funchal
👉 Tip: Portugal has excellent budget and mid-range hotels, making it ideal for affordable European travel.
Portugal Travel Costs & Budget
Average daily cost:
Budget: $50–70
Mid-range: $90–150
Luxury: $200+
Portugal is one of the cheapest Western European countries to travel.
Portuguese Food Guide
Must-try dishes:
Bacalhau (salted cod)
Pastel de Nata
Francesinha
Grilled sardines
Seafood rice
Food alone is a reason Portugal is among the best places to visit in Portugal.
Getting Around Portugal
Trains: Fast and affordable(Book train tickets & Europe Rail pass)
Buses: Good for budget travelers(Book Bus tickets at best price)
Car rental: Best for Algarve & countryside (Book Car rental in Portugal)
Domestic flights: Useful for islands
Best Time to Visit Portugal
Spring (Mar–May): Best weather, fewer crowds
Summer (Jun–Aug): Beach season, busy
Autumn (Sep–Oct): Warm and pleasant
Winter (Nov–Feb): Mild weather, fewer tourists
Portugal Visa & Entry Requirements
Part of the Schengen Zone
Many nationalities get 90 days visa-free
Digital Nomad & long-stay visas available
Who Should Visit Which Part of Portugal?
Backpackers: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve
Couples: Porto, Sintra, Madeira
Families: Algarve, Cascais
Digital nomads: Lisbon, Porto, Madeira
Nature lovers: Azores, Madeira
Suggested Portugal Itineraries
5-Day Portugal Itinerary
Lisbon (3 days)
Sintra (1 day)
Cascais (1 day)
7-Day Portugal Itinerary
Lisbon (3 days)
Porto (2 days)
Douro Valley (2 days)
10-Day Portugal Itinerary
Lisbon
Porto
Algarve
Sintra
Cascais
FAQs About Traveling to Portugal
Is Portugal safe for tourists?
Yes, it’s one of Europe’s safest countries.
Is Portugal expensive?
No, it’s very affordable compared to France or Italy.
Do people speak English?
Yes, especially in tourist areas.
Why Portugal Should Be Your Next Trip ?
With historic cities, breathtaking beaches, delicious food, and reasonable prices, Portugal truly offers it all. Whether you’re exploring iconic Portugal tourist attractions or discovering hidden gems, it’s no surprise Portugal remains one of the best places to travel in Europe.
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