8 Captivating Places to visit in Portugal
Pristine and sensational countryside, sandy beaches, sparkling sea waters, and the vivid landscape – define the land of Portugal. It is the most spectacular and renowned tourist destination in Europe. Thousands of tourists and globetrotters visit Portugal every year, to soak into its vivid wonders. There are a plethora of places to visit in Portugal and ample opportunities to immerse into its impeccable beauty.
Lisbon
It is the capital city of the country and one of the fascinating places to visit in Portugal. If you are a history buff, then the city is where you must hop in. You will be spellbound with its historical prominence embellished by the artistically curated cathedrals, vintage trams, narrow alleys, and several food hubs with a touch of history. Watching the skyline of Lisbon at dusk and evening is a memorable experience. Besides its mystic scenic views are alluring and mesmerizing. You must not miss visiting its numerous streetside shops and the Colombo Mall for satiating your purchasing spree. Jeronimos monastery is another interesting place to visit in the city.
Madeira
Madeira is one of the stunning places to visit in Portugal. It is an island and is a preferred destination for adventure enthusiasts, hikers, and trekkers. There are several walking trails in Madeira for venturing out and embracing nature. The key attraction of the island is the house of the famous explorer Christopher Columbus. Another key attraction is the museum of CR7, Cristiano Ronaldo, the world-renowned footballer and captain of Portugal. Numerous food joints, restaurants, and street-side shops serving delectable locals foods and drinks are the specialty of the island.
Praia da Marinha
Pristine beaches, gleaming sea waters, and rocky cliffs along the shores dominate the intrinsic beauty of Praia da Marinha. The place is quite famous among beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. You can spend an ample amount of time, indulging in adventurous water activities and sports like snorkeling, diving, and boating. The feel of the marine life further uplifts the charm of the place. If you want to spend a time of solitude then you can sit and relax at the beach, enjoying the soothing breeze and the freshness in the air. Praia da Marinha is one of the most happening places to visit in Portugal.
Sintra
Buildings and structures portraying brilliant craftsmanship and architectural grandeur circumference the town of Sintra. It is one of the historically significant places to visit in Portugal. The key attraction of the town is the iconic Quinta da Regaleira building. Standing tall with its exquisite gardens and artistic charm, it is frequented by tourists. The building has been included in UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites. The Moorish castle is another awesome place to visit in Sintra. Hop on into the historic Sintra tram ride, for a splendid tour of the breathtaking countryside. There is a beach named Praia da Ursa beach, an offbeat and quiet place to visit in the town.
Porto
If you want to float into a dreamland, Porto is the place for you. Your mind and soul will be elevated to a divine state, witnessing the astounding views at the banks of the River Douro. Its meandering alleys, colorful buildings, beautiful monuments, and palaces are dazzling to watch. It is one of the captivating places to visit in Portugal. The two significant tourist spots to visit in the city are Ponte de Dom bridge, an epitome of beauty, and the Palacio da bolsa. The city paints a retro look with its heritage cafes, historic and iconic buildings, and eateries all around.
Douro Valley
Do you love visiting vineyards and explore wine processing methods? Well, then you must definitely visit Douro Valley. It is one of the perfect places to visit in Portugal for a taste of those delectable wines. The vineyards are spread across vast areas along the mountain slopes. The river Douro flows past the land, amplifying its beauty much more. The crystal clear blue sky, the meandering stream of waters, the dense greenery, and the gigantic landscape transports our mind into dreamland. The serenity and calmness encompassing the region are precious. You can opt for the river cruise to soak into the beauty of the river and its vivacious surroundings. And do not miss out on the exotic wine and food tour in the vineyards and taste some of its delicious wines.
Aveiro
Have you been to Venice? If Yes then you can bet the similarity of the town Aveiro with Venice. It is one of the amazing places to visit in Portugal. Gondola rides, winding canals, and alluring quays dominate the artistic town. You will be astonished to watch the mystic array of colorful buildings and houses lined along both sides of the canals. The key attraction of the place is Art Nouveau where you can find a display of wonderful creations of paintings and artworks by talented artists and painters. Visit the Nova beach to spend a relaxing time watching the golden hue of the sunset. Swoop into some of the delectable local Portuguese cuisines in the street-side shops and restaurants spread across the town.
Obidos
The pristine hamlet of Obidos has an interesting story to narrate. It is related to the age-old tradition of Portugal when kings used to buy villages to appease and please their beloved queens. It is believed that in the 13th century, King Denis had gifted the village of Obidos to his loving lady and beloved queen Isabel. The simplistic and artistic houses in the village, the charming aura of the environment around, and the neatly aligned pavements augment the beauty of the place. If you have been to Santorini in Greece, then you find a wide resemblance to it. Do not miss visiting Castelo de Obidos, an ancient castle with captivating views of the countryside.
Do not forget to enter Portugal into your bucket list, if you are planning for a trip to Europe. Its beauty and historical heritage are unparalleled and fascinating. The best time to visit the country is spring when nature is in its full bloom.
Author
Kuntala
A travel enthusiast craving to explore the exotic destinations in the world, deciphering the mysteries and the thrill concealed in them.
I love love love Portugal! I’ve been to Lisbon and a couple of other towns there, i can’t wait to go back.
Between the places you mentioned in this post I visited Lisbon, Porto, Aveiro and Madeira. I’ve bookmarked your article so the next time I’ll visit the ones I missed. Thanks for sharing. – Paolo
Absolutely beautiful! Hope to visit one day!
I see you had a wonderful adventure based on your photos. Have you traveled even though COVID is prevalent?
Holy cow the building in Sintra is amazing. All these photos are outrageously beautiful. So ready to travel again!
Portugal is such a lovely place to visit. I’ve not been for years now. I’d love to go to Praia da Marinha.
I love visiting historical places and learn about them. And will add the fist place to the list. Thank you for sharing!!
Sintra Lisbon and Porto are my favourite places in Portugal and I had a great time there, I would love to explore the other places you have included on the list too! Thanks for sharing! – Knycx Journeying
Portugal is in my to travel list, love this list with 8 places, saved it as my travel reference
oh Portugal is so wonderful. I do want to visit it again, especially for Madeira.
Some time ago, I went on a rail road trip from Porto down to Lisbon and got to see some of those beautiful place you are introducing. However, I would still like to visit the Douro Valley.
I’ve been to Lisbon and Porto but would love to visit some of the other places on this visit. There are so many gems to discover!
All of these places are beautiful. I’d love to use this post as an itinerary for exploring the country.
Wow…the views of Madeira from here are looking so good! I can’t even imagine what it feels like living there, you know! Thanks for sharing.
Every single shot here makes me more and more eager to visit Portugal. I knew it was a beautiful country, but I had no idea that it was THAT beautiful.
If I were to relocate to another country, I’d definitely choose Portugal. I love everything about it — the slow pace, the ocean, the food.
wow!! such an amazing place to visit! i love that scenery by the beach!!
I’ve always heard amazing things about Portugal. Beautiful photos 🙂
Most people don’t even think about Portugal when they plan a trip to Europe. But there is much to offer here- much more than just a visit to Lisbon, although it is a nice place, too.
I would love to travel to Duoro Valley. I’d like to try out some of their wines. And the way of living very laid-back, so serene. I love this place.
Wow, Portugal is such a beautiful country. I love the beach and Aveiro looks like a fun place to explore.
These all look like great destinations in Portugal. I’ve never been to Europe and it would be awesome to explore Portugal.
Portugal is very high on my list of places I’d love to visit!
Lisbon and Porto look good to me. I’ve always wanted to see Lisbon since I first heard of it. Porto is new to me.
I have a lot of colleagues whose Portuguese, would love to visit the place someday most especially lisbon
Obidos and Lisbon (Lisboa) are two places I really want to visit. I hope to see it soon. Maybe after the pandemic?
Wow, so many great places. My favorite is Praia because I love the beaches! I would love to swim all day!
Wow! Portugal is so colorful! I often hear about Lisbon! But I think that my fave here will be Praia Da Marinha!
You never fail to satisfy. There are always beautiful pictures included and the tips are super helpful.
This is another country that I want to visit. I really want to visit POrto and Lisbon. My bucket list is getting really long!
Portugal is definitely on my bucket list. I have heard so much about Porto especially and the great port wine, I definitely have to visit.