17 Most Beautiful Places to Explore in Portugal

One of Europe’s most affordable countries to visit, Portugal pairs great-value food and wine with ancient history, striking architecture, and sun-drenched, seriously dreamy beaches. It’s also entered a new era of cool — and after many trips (some separate holidays, some road trips), these are my favourite spots I can’t wait to share with you…

1. Praia da Marinha

This beach is famous for a reason! I found golden cliffs framing a dreamy crescent of fine, golden sand, shimmering turquoise waters, and unique rock formations. There was a mix of secluded tranquil spots as well as more crowded areas. 

My highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star Jupiter Marina Hotel – Couples & Spa – I loved the rooftop infinity swimming pool, the cool rooftop beach sand, the Balinese beds, the Turkish bath and the chic modern interiors.

2. Lisbon

I quickly discovered that Lisbon was ridiculously easy-on-the eye — a little shabby-chic, a little sun-bleached — with narrow, winding cobbled streets, colourful tile-clad buildings, cozy cafés, swoon-worthy viewpoints, and Gothic cathedrals all wrapped up with sun-drenched beaches waiting just along the nearby coast. I loved how it had a slight bohemian vibe mixed in with lashings of traditional charm and a lively, youthful energy!

I flew from the UK to Lisbon Airport (direct) and ticked off the city’s classics in a hot and sunny week — Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, rattled along on the iconic Tram 28, shamelessly gorged on pastéis de nata at Manteigaria, stumbled upon quirky street art in bohemian Bairro Alto, taking in photogenic city views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and spending far too long people-watching from sunny café terraces – the arty Café da Garagem became a favourite!

Location: Western Portugal | Size: population ~545,000 | Vibe: sun-washed, historic, and authentic cool

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the funky but glamorous 4-star Madalena by The Beautique Hotels – I loved the eclectic, Insta-worthy design, the boutique vibe and the retro-style pink oyster tiles! 

3. Cascais

I adored this sleepy little fishing village turned chic coastal resort — long loved by artisans, writers, and artists — and thought it was very pretty with its mix of sandy beaches and rugged coastline, elegant villas, old forts, and a charming historic centre of cobbled streets and cute cafés. To me, it felt wonderfully relaxed and intimate, but with an arty, upscale edge — the perfect mix of traditional fishing-village charm and polished, cosmopolitan style.

I flew directly from Lisbon Airport (LIS) from London and drove just over 45 minutes staying a week at the very Insta-worthy 4-star Legacy Hotel Cascais. It quickly became one of my favourite coastal spots — I wandered the pretty Bay of Cascais, gawped at the wild drama of Boca do Inferno, popped into the Santa Marta Lighthouse, flopped down on Praia da Rainha, admired the lavish Castro Guimarães Museum, and stretched out long, lazy lunches in the sun-splashed marina where everything seemed to shimmer!

Location: Western Portugal, Estoril Coast (near Lisbon) | Size: population ~214,000 | Vibe: relaxed, coastal, and quietly sophisticated

My favorite highlights…

• Wandering around the historic centre – I adored the delicate azulejo tile-inspired plates and stonewashed linen napkins embroidered with traditional patterns and meeting artists painting local sun-drenched scenes beside ivy-clad doorways!

4. The Algarve Region

Yes, it’s developed and touristy, but this place is popular for a reason! I personally thought it was a very beautiful place with golden cliffs, sprawling sandy beaches, hidden coves, and charming whitewashed villages with Moorish-influenced architecture, which glow under the warm sun. It has a leisurely laid-back holiday vibe which I saw livened up at night when the club seekers came out to play.

I flew into Faro (direct flight) from the UK and spent a gorgeous at the swoon-worthy 4-star boutique Central Monchique Hotel, sunbathing on show-stopping beaches (Praia da Marinha, Praia da Falésia, and Praia da Cordoama became my favourites!), pottering through Tavira’s pretty old town, and hiking the jaw-dropping cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, while my partner hit Vilamoura’s world-class golf courses! 

Location: Southern Portugal (from the border with Spain to the westernmost point of Cape St. Vincent)| Size: population ~451,000 | Vibe: sun-drenched, laid-back, and effortlessly beachy

My personal highlights…

• Going on wine tasting at the dreamy centuries-old estate historic estate Morgado do Quintão – I especially loved the elegant-tasting Clarete which was a light ruby-red wine made from the potent Negra Mole grape! 

5. Porto

I thought this was such an eclectic, fascinating city — its historic centre is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and while it definitely has a few gritty, edgy corners, that just added to the appeal. It was very attractive too, with ornate baroque churches, elegant neoclassical buildings, quaint cobbled streets, and that stunning riverside setting along the Douro. What really won me over though was its vibrant, creative energy — it felt artistic, lived-in, and full of soul! 

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on bruschetta, olives and a sweet caramel-flavoured Tawny Port at the Miradouro Ignez restaurant – I adored the deck where I gazed at the Porto’s red-tiled rooftops and the Douro River.

6. Douro Valley

This tranquil beauty spot completely took my breath away — vine-covered terraced vineyards, traditional quintas, and the winding Douro River slicing through rugged hills and historic villages, all blissfully unspoilt, lightly threaded with zigzagging roads and slow-gliding cruise boats, and every bit deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage status! 

I drove two hours from Porto and spent three idyllic days at the very Insta-worthy 4-star Lamego Hotel & Life, wine tasting at historic quintas, cruising the serene Douro River, cycling through vineyard-draped landscapes, and exploring the charming villages of Pinhão and Peso da Régua, before stopping at the exquisite Mateus Palace.

Location: Northern Portugal | Size: population ~214,000 | Vibe: atmospheric, riverside, and quietly soulful

My personal highlights…

• Going on a fun wine and food boat tour – I loved going past Ponte Maria Pia, an iron railway bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel and the port wine cellars while indulging on a mellow 10-Year-Old Tawny Port!

7. Sintra

I found this place ridiculously romantic and picture-perfect — fairytale palaces like the turreted Pena Palace rising out of misty forests, dramatic ocean views, and rugged, cliff-lined beaches all mashed together in one wildly beautiful setting. Thanks to its lush, exotic microclimate, it felt magical and slightly otherworldly, blending storybook charm with a delicious hint of gothic drama.

I drove 45 minutes from Lisbon and spent five beautiful days here, staying at the elegant, romantic 4-star boutique Chalet Saudade and exploring the fairytale Pena Palace, wandering the atmospheric Quinta da Regaleira, and climbing the ancient Moorish Castle (the views were just sublime here)! I also relaxed on the wild shores of Praia da Adraga, and tackled the lush, winding trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Location: Western Portugal (near Lisbon) | Size: population ~385,000 | Vibe: fairytale, misty, and richly romantic

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a scenic ride on the Sintra Tram which took us from Sintra to the coastal area of Praia das Maçãs on a 45 minute journey – I really enjoyed seeing the gorgeous views of first the Sintra Mountains and then the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

8. Aveiro

I thought this was such a brilliant hidden gem — often called the Portuguese Venice, I found pretty canals lined with colourful moliceiro boats and bridges, elegant Art Nouveau buildings, and the candy-striped houses of nearby Praia da Costa Nova. It had that perfect mix of lively energy and laid-back charm that made me want to linger far longer than planned.

I drove an hour from Porto and spent three colourful days staying at the very Insta-worthy Barcos Casa Aveiro, gliding along the canals on a moliceiro boat tour, strolling along the colourful Costa Nova beach to see it’s iconic striped houses, gorging the local delicacy ovos moles (a traditional Portuguese pastry) and taking in the city’s very impressive Art Nouveau charm.

Location: Central Portugal (Ria de Aveiro) | Size: population ~78,000 | Vibe: colorful, canal-laced, and quietly charming

My highlights…

• Dining on a delicious codfish and beans washed down with a divine Quinta Portal Reserva Douro white wines at the unique Michelin-star restaurant Salpoente – I loved how it was housed in former salt warehouse but was filled with a chic contemporary design.

9. Sagres

One of Europe’s best surf spots, this remote coastal town is quickly turning into a cool hot spot — drawing surfers, artists, and digital nomads in the know. I found secluded sandy beaches, clear turquoise water, sea-carved cliffs, a historic fortress, and dreamy ocean views, all wrapped in a laid-back, bohemian vibe that still felt refreshingly far from the tourist masses.

I drove just over 1.5 hours west from Faro and spent an idyllic week at the modern, design-led 4-star Memmo Baleeir, soaking up Sagres’ laid-back surf-town vibe, exploring Fortaleza de Sagres, watching surfers at Mareta and Tonel Beaches, catching epic sunsets at Cape St. Vincent, and filling my days with cliffside hikes, lighthouse wanders, and café-hopping between indie, organic spots.

Location: Southwestern Algarve, Portugal | Size: population ~1,900 | Vibe: wild, windswept, and beautifully bohemian

My highlights…

• Cafetaria Picnic Sagres which was my favourite cool little cafe – I went there frequently trying out their amazing crusty sourdough bread, smooth cortados, chilled glass of Portuguese pét-nat, and Letra C American Pale Ale while browsing their selection of trendy magazines!

10. Obidos

This was such a captivating little medieval town — a real hidden gem packed with beautifully preserved stone buildings, winding cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses splashed with bougainvillea, all enveloped within the walls of a 12th-century castle. I loved its timeless, storybook feel, made even better by superb views over the surrounding countryside! 

My favourite highlights…

• A stroll along Rua Direita meant artisan boutiques, cute bookshops, and plenty of stops for ginja in edible chocolate cups — pure Obidos charm!

11. Marvao

I found this medieval hilltop village utterly enchanting — stone walls, narrow cobbled lanes, and whitewashed houses tumbling beneath a beautifully preserved 13th-century castle, all set high above sweeping countryside views. With its slow, timeless pace, it genuinely felt like stepping back into a simpler era.

I drove three hours from Lisbon and spent the night at Dom Dinis Marvão, gazing at unreal views, exploring the 13th-century castle, wandering cobbled streets of whitewashed houses, dipping into the Church of Santa Maria, escaping into Serra de São Mamede Natural Park, and admiring the ancient Roman bridge in nearby Portagem.

Location: Eastern Portugal (near the Spanish border) | Size: population ~3,500 | Vibe: dramatic, hilltop, and timelessly enchanting

My highlights…

• Exploring Marvão’s medieval fortress meant archer slit windows, weathered cannons, fragrant rose-and-wild-herb garden, and extraordinary views over the rolling Alentejo countryside! 

12. Salema

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the modern 4-star Vila Luz and gorging on a garlicky migas de espargos on the terrace, with uninterrupted sea views stretching out ahead!

13. Evora 

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Évora seriously wowed me — a beautifully preserved gem of medieval walls, Roman temple ruins, whitewashed houses splashed with intricate tilework, and striking Gothic architecture that made wandering around feel like stepping back in time! 

I drove about an hour and a half from Lisbon and spent a weekend at the romantic CICIOSO boutique hotel exploring Évora — wandering past the 16th-century Roman Temple, stepping into the haunting Chapel of Bones with its very eerie walls of skulls and skeletons, admiring the dramatic Gothic lines of Évora Cathedral, and ambling around the lively Praça do Giraldo.

Location: Alentejo, Southern Portugal | Size: population ~56,000 | Vibe: historic, sun-baked, and quietly soulful

My highlights…

• People-watching in the town square, perched on an iron bench beneath an ancient tree as local men in traditional hats played cards and dominoes!

14. Sado Estuary

This felt like a real hidden gem, tucked well off the beaten track — a protected natural reserve of unspoilt golden beaches, calm waters, wide-open marshes, and postcard-pretty villages with whitewashed houses and old fishing docks. It was bursting with wildlife too, from dolphins offshore to migratory birds overhead, and I loved how wonderfully undeveloped it felt — peaceful, raw, and very close to nature!

I drove about an hour from Lisbon on a day trip and jumped on a dolphin-watching tour, where I was lucky enough to spot the super-cute resident bottlenose dolphins. I also kicked back on the pristine beaches of Comporta and Tróia, wandered the historic fishing town of Setúbal, hiked the scenic trails of Arrábida Natural Park, and finished by exploring the ancient Roman ruins of Tróia, which offered a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.

Location: Southwest Portugal (near Setúbal) | Size: protected estuary reserve | Vibe: wild, tranquil, and nature-rich

My highlights…

• Dining on divine caramel and peanut waffles while watching the sunset the urban beach at the nearby trendy Rockalot Praia restaurant in Setúbal (after visiting the estuary). 

15. Coimbra

I found this historic city utterly charming — a hilltop university crowned by the ornate Joanina Library, the medieval Sé Velha, winding cobbled streets, and gorgeous views over the Mondego River. The vibe was just as good, blending centuries of academic heritage with a lively, youthful student buzz that made the whole place feel wonderfully alive.

I drove an hour from Porto and stayed overnight at the very cool, design-led 4-star boutique Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra Hotel, then explored the historic University of Coimbra and its jaw-dropping Joanina Library, stepped inside the medieval Sé Velha, wandered the leafy Coimbra Botanical Garden, admired the Roman ruins at nearby Conímbriga, and soaked up the peaceful riverside views along the Mondego.

Location: Central Portugal | Size: population ~143,000 | Vibe: academic, historic, and quietly lively

My highlights…

• In Parque Verde do Mondego – I cycled the smooth riverside paths, clocked locals timing reps on the outdoor gym gear, and crossed the footbridge where the boards softly hummed above the water!

16. Amarante

I found this not very well known riverside town to be wonderfully romantic — handsome cobbled streets, postcard-pretty traditional houses with balconies spilling over the river, striking bridges striding the water, and the imposing 16th-century São Gonçalo Church with its intricate Baroque details anchoring the scene beautifully!

I drove just 55 minutes from Porto and spent time surrounded by rolling vineyards, then set out to explore — walking over the historic São Gonçalo Bridge, ducking into the excellent Museu Municipal Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso for a hit of striking modernist art and happily sampling local treats — especially the famous convent sweets and crisp vinho verde!

Location: Northern Portugal (near Porto) | Size: population ~11,000 | Vibe: romantic, riverside, and quietly historic

My personal highlights..

• Dining on a delicious arroz de grelos — a comforting rice dish with bitter greens and olive oil — at the elegant Ciao Tílias, set inside a beautifully restored 19th-century building!

17. Azores

Set way out in the North Atlantic, the Azores felt like a completely different world from mainland Portugal (it’s not known as Europe’s Hawaii for nothing!) — wilder, greener, and beautifully untamed. I loved the dramatic volcanic landscapes, black-sand beaches, steamy hot springs, and whitewashed villages, and how the islands managed to feel both wonderfully peaceful and quietly adventurous at the same time!

I took a four hour flight from London Gatwick to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel, then island-hopped around the nine volcanic archipelago islands — hiking the crater lakes of Sete Cidades, soaking in Furnas’ geothermal hot springs, admiring Pico’s dramatic cliffs and UNESCO-listed vineyards, heading out whale-watching, relaxing on Santa Maria’s black-sand beaches, and swimming in Terceira’s wild volcanic pools.

Location: North Atlantic Ocean (west of mainland Portugal) | Size: population ~245,000 | Vibe: wild, volcanic, and beautifully untamed

My favourite highlights…

• Staying at the 4-star boutique Octant Furnas – I couldn’t get enough of the hot-spring thermal pools, botanical gardens, and beautifully local plates of volcanic-grown yams, freshly grown herbs, and Atlantic seafood.