If you are planning a trip to Europe, Portugal should be on your list of destinations. Portugal is a country with a rich history and a vibrant culture. From its stunning coastline to its quaint villages and bustling cities, there is no shortage of things to do in Portugal. In this article, we will explore the 19 best things to do in Portugal that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Visit the Beaches
Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty to choose from. The most popular beaches are in the Algarve region, which boasts miles of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Other great beaches to visit include Praia da Rocha, Praia do Guincho, and Praia de Galapinhos.
2. Explore Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and a must-visit city. It is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Be sure to visit the historic Alfama district, which is the oldest district in Lisbon. Other must-visit attractions include the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the National Azulejo Museum.
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3. Visit Sintra
Sintra is a town located just outside of Lisbon and is known for its stunning palaces and castles. Be sure to visit the Pena Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other great attractions include the Moorish Castle and the Quinta da Regaleira.
4. Visit Porto
Porto is a city located in the north of Portugal and is famous for its port wine. Be sure to visit the port wine cellars and take a river cruise on the Douro River. Other must-visit attractions include the Ribeira district, the Clerigos Tower, and the Livraria Lello bookstore.
5. Visit the Algarve
The Algarve is a region located in the south of Portugal and is famous for its beaches and resorts. Be sure to visit the town of Lagos and the stunning Benagil Cave. Other must-visit attractions include the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the town of Tavira.
6. Visit Coimbra
Coimbra is a city located in central Portugal and is known for its historic university. Be sure to visit the University of Coimbra and the Biblioteca Joanina, which is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Other great attractions include the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha and the Machado de Castro National Museum.
7. Visit Óbidos
Óbidos is a small town located north of Lisbon and is known for its medieval castle and narrow streets. Be sure to walk along the town’s walls and visit the Porta da Vila, which is the main entrance to the town. Other must-visit attractions include the Santa Maria Church and the Misericordia Church.
8. Visit the Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is a region located in the north of Portugal and is famous for its stunning vineyards and scenic landscapes. Take a river cruise or drive along the winding roads to admire the views. Be sure to visit some of the wineries for a wine tasting experience. Other must-visit attractions include the town of Pinhão and the Douro Museum.
9. Visit Évora
Évora is a city located in the Alentejo region of Portugal and is known for its well-preserved historic center. Be sure to visit the Roman Temple of Évora and the Chapel of Bones, which is an eerie but fascinating attraction. Other great attractions include the Cathedral of Évora and the Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval.
10. Visit Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a beautiful city with a stunning harbor and a lively atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a colorful market where you can buy fresh produce and flowers. Other must-visit attractions include the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the Madeira Wine Museum.
11. Visit the Azores
The Azores is an archipelago located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and is a nature lover’s paradise. Be sure to visit the Sete Cidades crater lakes and the Furnas Valley hot springs. Other great attractions include the Lagoa do Fogo and the Pico Mountain, which is the highest mountain in Portugal.
12. Try the Portuguese cuisine
Portuguese cuisine is delicious and diverse. Be sure to try the national dish, bacalhau (salt cod), and the famous pastel de nata (custard tart). Other must-try dishes include caldo verde (kale soup), francesinha (a meat sandwich), and arroz de marisco (seafood rice).
13. Go Wine Tasting
Portugal is famous for its wine, and there are plenty of wineries to visit. Be sure to try the port wine in Porto and the Vinho Verde in the Minho region. Other great wine regions to visit include the Douro Valley, the Dão region, and the Alentejo region.
14. Visit the Castles
Portugal has a rich history, and there are plenty of castles to visit. Be sure to visit the Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon, the Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra, and the Castelo de Guimarães, which is the birthplace of Portugal’s first king.
15. Visit the Monasteries
Portugal is home to some beautiful monasteries, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Be sure to visit the Monastery of Alcobaça, the Monastery of Batalha, and the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon.
16. Visit the Museums
Portugal has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of museums to visit. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon, and the Serralves Museum in Porto.
17. Go Hiking
Portugal has some beautiful hiking trails, many of which offer stunning views. Be sure to hike the Rota Vicentina in the Algarve, the Caminho Português de Santiago, and the Peneda-Gerês National Park in the north of Portugal.
18. Go Surfing
Portugal is a popular destination for surfers, with some of the best waves in Europe. Be sure to visit Ericeira, which is a world-famous surf spot and the first World Surfing Reserve in Europe. Other great surf spots include Peniche, Nazaré, and Sagres.
19. Attend Festivals
Portugal is known for its vibrant festivals, and there is always something happening. Be sure to attend the Festa de São João in Porto, which is a lively street party, and the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Agonia in Viana do Castelo, which is a colorful festival with a parade of boats. Other great festivals to attend include the Lisbon Street Art Festival and the Festa dos Tabuleiros in Tomar.
In conclusion, Portugal is a wonderful destination with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, Portugal has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the best things to do in Portugal!
FAQs:
Q1. What is the best time to visit Portugal? A1. The best time to visit Portugal is between March and May or September and October when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Q2. Is Portugal an expensive country to visit? A2. Portugal is a relatively affordable country to visit, especially when compared to other destinations in Western Europe.
Q3. What is the most beautiful place to visit in Portugal? A3. Portugal is home to many beautiful places, but some of the most popular ones include Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, and the Algarve.
Q4. Do you need a visa to visit Portugal? A4. It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Q5. Is Portugal a safe country to visit? A5. Portugal is a safe country to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it is always important to take the usual precautions and be aware of your surroundings.