15 Must-See Places in Portugal and Amazing Tourist Spots
Portugal is an incredible country to explore, known for more than just cork, stunning seas, and charming ports. It reminds me of historical cities, and what I love about Portugal is the unique feeling that can be felt in every place. You can drive for 30 minutes and feel as if you’ve entered a completely different country; it’s truly special.
If you plan to travel to Portugal, don’t forget to visit these places, but if the right opportunity isn’t available at the moment, it’s best to explore online tourism.SelMagzJoin us as we take a look at the 15 stunning attractions of Portugal.
The Unique Tourist Attractions of Portugal
1. Explore Braga
A city located near Porto and Amarante, this city is one of the best places to visit for its prominent historical buildings. Be sure to visit the sacred site of Bom Jesus do Monte, and bring a water bottle because the many stairs can be exhausting even for an Olympic champion.
2. Take a Good Tour of Amarante
Not far from Porto, Amarante offers a great opportunity to explore historic areas in this beautiful region. As you walk along the rivers, you’ll find numerous restaurants and cafes that you won’t be able to resist.
3. Porto, One of the Largest Cities in Portugal
Located in the north of Portugal, this is one of the largest cities in the country. With its hilly terrain, cobbled streets, fresh seafood, and many harbors, it provides plenty to see and do.
4. Visit the Forgotten Medieval Village of Sortelha
Sortelha is a small village with magnificent accommodations and an astonishing castle from which you can see the entire region. If you want to wander around the castle (which is highly recommended), you’ll need comfortable shoes. This village will take you back to the medieval period; you’ll lose track of time here.
5. The Village of Monsanto
Monsanto, a small village near Spain, is one of the most unique villages you’ll ever see, with a population of less than 1000. You must see this strange and fascinating village to believe it.
6. Don’t Miss the Beauty of Sintra!
It’s hard not to fall in love with Sintra. Nestled in the Sintra Mountains, you will see the most beautiful castles in Europe (shh, let’s keep it a secret!). Sintra is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Lisbon, so plan to spend a day or two exploring. Don’t miss the Pena Palace, Monserrate Palace, Moorish Castle, and Sintra Palace.
7. The Beauty of Cascais
This historic fishing town is located south of Lisbon and is the perfect spot if you want to cool off. Explore this quirky village and the Atlantic Ocean beaches.
8. Don’t Forget to Visit the Azores Waterfalls
The Azores is a volcanic archipelago located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. A few hours by plane and a bit of boating will take you to these islands, which are some of the most exciting and attractive in Europe. Just imagine the beautiful views and breathtaking landscapes you’ll witness!
Be sure to visit the beautiful islands of Flores and Pico da Alagoa! They are stunning!
9. Stroll through the Streets of Lisbon, Portugal
This major city in Portugal is one of the best places to visit. If it’s your first time in Portugal, you’ll be amazed by this city. Lisbon has many remarkable spots, with diverse and vibrant residents. Don’t miss the chance to explore this city. Be sure to see the Belem Tower and wander around Bairro Alto; grab a bite in Chiado, located in the old warehouse district—it’s truly unique.
10. Visit Madeira Island
Located between Portugal and the Canary Islands, Madeira Island is a must-visit destination. Be sure to check out the capital, Funchal. There are also stunning views around the city that are often overlooked during trips to Portugal.
11. Don’t Miss the Bone Church in Évora
This impressive Roman city is recognized by UNESCO. Visit the Roman temple made of bones that are stacked in each wall. Also prioritize visiting Praça do Giraldo and the Capela dos Ossos after the Bone Church. This temple is part of the magnificent Igreja de São Francisco, which is a unique showcase of beauty.
12. Visit the Parque Natural do Sudeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina
The name is long and maybe even hard to pronounce, but it’s an amazing and stunning area to visit. This national park is considered one of the coastal parks of Europe. This area has remained untouched for thousands of years and has never experienced the flavor of industrialization and development.
During your journey, be sure to stop at one of the villages for fishing. You can stay at Enigma Nature and Water hotel and enjoy the surrounding views.
13. Experience the Dreamy Sagres
In this area, Sagres boasts some of the most incredible coastlines you can walk along. Be sure to visit the fortress and enjoy wandering beside the cliffs.
14. Explore the Cliffs Around Lagos
Lagos is a small town in the Algarve region. Don’t forget to visit the Lagos Castle, and the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade and the Igreja de Santo António. With just a short drive, you’ll reach these beautiful sites. It’s the perfect place to spend a long afternoon, located on the southern coast of Portugal.
15. Explore the Unmatched Beaches
No one can deny that the beaches of Portugal are among the best in Europe. If you’re looking for places to relax or enjoy some sailing, make sure to check out the beaches of Portugal (Sagres, Ericeira, or other Atlantic beaches).
