What to do in Portugal: 20 must-sees and must-dos

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Lisbon

Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon, set on the banks of the majestic Tagus River, offers an enchanting fusion of ancient and modern. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Alfama district, steeped in history and charm, where decrepit walls tell age-old tales. Don’t miss a visit to the famous São Jorge Castle, with its breathtaking views over the city.

Discover the Belém district, cradle of Portuguese discoveries, where the Belém Tower and the Hieronymite Monastery bear witness to the golden age of maritime exploration. For a modern touch, explore the Chiado district, with its elegant boutiques and lively cafés.

Porto

Porto, a jewel nestled in the north of Portugal, dazzles with its singular beauty and authentic character. Majestically overlooking the Douro River, this town abounds with cobbled streets and colorful buildings, testimony to a rich historical past. Stroll along the lively Ribeira quays, where traditional boats, known as “rabelos”, are a reminder of the vital importance of port wine to the local economy.

Take time to visit Porto Cathedral, a true masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, then cross the Dom Luís I bridge to discover the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can taste this precious nectar.

Algarve

In the heart of southern Portugal lies the Algarve, an enchanting region bathed in sunshine and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. With golden cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters, idyllic beaches and picturesque villages, the Algarve is a paradise for sun worshippers and relaxation seekers.

Explore charming coastal towns such as Lagos, with its cobbled streets and bohemian ambience, or Albufeira, famous for its lively nightlife and magnificent beaches. History buffs will love Faro, where vestiges of its Moorish past blend with elegant architecture.

Sintra

Sintra, a picturesque town near Lisbon, is one of Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations. Nestled in the green hills of the Serra de Sintra, this town steeped in history and charm offers a wealth of architectural wonders, enchanting landscapes and mysteries to discover.

Dominated by the majestic National Palace of Sintra, this town is packed with palaces, castles, manor houses and enchanting gardens that bear witness to its rich past. Among Sintra’s most emblematic sites is the Regaleira Palace, a magical place where esotericism and architecture blend harmoniously in a maze of caves, towers and secret passages. The Palacio de Pena, meanwhile, is a brightly-colored neo-Manueline work of art that seems to have come straight out of a fairy tale, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding region.

Faro

Faro, the capital of Portugal’s southern Algarve region, is an enchanting destination that combines history, culture and natural beauty. Located on the edge of the Ria Formosa, a protected nature reserve, Faro offers visitors a rich and varied experience.

Évora

Évora, a charming medieval town in Portugal’s Alentejo region, is a must-see destination for lovers of history, culture and architecture. With its cobbled streets, picturesque squares and impressive monuments, Évora offers visitors a real immersion in Portugal’s glorious past.

At the heart of the city lies the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where every street corner reveals architectural treasures and relics of its rich past. Évora Cathedral, a 13th-century Gothic masterpiece, dominates the skyline with its imposing silhouette and magnificently ornate interior. Not far from here is the famous Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, an impressive vestige of the city’s Roman occupation.

Coimbra

Coimbra, Portugal’s historic gem and lively university town, is a fascinating destination that combines tradition, culture and knowledge. Situated on the banks of the Mondego River, Coimbra offers visitors a journey through the ages, with its rich architectural heritage, cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere.

In the heart of Coimbra lies the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe. Founded in the 13th century, the university imbues the city with its academic spirit and glorious history. Its iconic Joanina Library, adorned with gilded woodwork and elaborate frescoes, is a priceless treasure for book lovers and history buffs alike.

Aveiro

Aveiro, nicknamed the “Portuguese Venice”, is a picturesque coastal town in Portugal renowned for its network of canals, colorful houses and charming atmosphere. Located in the country’s central region, Aveiro offers visitors a unique experience, combining maritime tradition, art nouveau and local gastronomy.

Fátima

Fátima, a world-famous Catholic pilgrimage site, is located in the heart of Portugal, in the Extremadura region. Every year, millions of pilgrims come to Fátima to honor the Virgin Mary, especially on May 13 and October 13, the dates of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917.

Braga

Braga, often referred to as the “Portuguese Rome”, is a historic city in north-west Portugal. Renowned for its rich religious heritage, impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Braga is one of the country’s most fascinating destinations.

In the heart of Braga lies the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, one of the city’s most emblematic sites. This Baroque sanctuary, perched on a green hill, is famous for its monumental staircase with 600 steps adorned with statues and fountains, offering a panoramic view of the city from the top.

Obidos

Óbidos, a picturesque medieval town in Portugal’s western region, is a historical and architectural gem that attracts visitors from all over the world. Perched on a hill and surrounded by medieval ramparts, Óbidos offers a journey back in time, with its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and well-preserved castles.

Cascais

Cascais, a picturesque seaside town near Lisbon, is one of Portugal’s most popular destinations. Nestled between the Sintra mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Cascais offers visitors an enchanting mix of golden beaches, spectacular scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.

Tomar

Tomar, a historic city in the heart of Portugal, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, impressive architecture and historical importance as the former seat of the Knights Templar. Nestled on the banks of the Nabão River, Tomar offers visitors a captivating immersion in Portuguese history and tradition.

Nazaré

Nazaré, a picturesque coastal town in Portugal’s western region, is famous for its magnificent beaches, spectacular waves and authentic charm. Nestled between steep cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, Nazaré offers visitors an unforgettable seaside getaway, as well as an immersion in Portuguese maritime culture and tradition.

Portimão

Portimão, located in the sunny Algarve region on Portugal’s southern coast, is a dynamic and diverse seaside town that attracts visitors with its golden sandy beaches, water sports, lively nightlife and rich cultural heritage.

Portimão’s most famous beach is Praia da Rocha, known for its spectacular cliffs, fine sand and crystal-clear waters. This stretch of coast attracts swimmers, surfers and yachtsmen from all over the world. Visitors can also explore other picturesque beaches in the region, such as Praia dos Três Irmãos and Praia do Vau, offering unspoilt coastal landscapes and calm waters.

Guimarães

Guimarães, located in the northern region of Portugal, is a city steeped in history, often considered the cradle of the Portuguese nation. Indeed, it was here that Portugal’s first king, Afonso I, was born, and the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical importance and remarkable architecture.

Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo, a picturesque coastal town in northern Portugal, is a charming destination full of character. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and verdant mountains, Viana do Castelo offers visitors a unique combination of historical heritage, vibrant culture and spectacular natural scenery.

Setúbal

Setúbal, on Portugal’s southwest coast, is a bustling port city renowned for its beautiful scenery, delicious cuisine and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the estuary of the River Sado and the hills of the Serra da Arrábida, Setúbal offers visitors a unique experience, combining maritime tradition, unspoilt nature and refined gastronomy.

Lagos

Lagos, a lively coastal town in Portugal’s southern Algarve region, is a popular destination for its spectacular beaches, rich historical heritage and lively atmosphere. Nestled between golden cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, Lagos offers visitors an enchanting combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and vibrant culture.

Sagres

Sagres, at the south-western tip of Portugal, is an iconic coastal town renowned for its spectacular scenery, maritime history and tranquil ambience. Nestled in the heart of the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, Sagres offers visitors an authentic getaway in unspoilt natural surroundings.