Where are the best places to visit in Portugal?

The colourful city of Lisbon is always a perennial favourite for travellers looking for the best places to visit in Portugal.

It’s the epitome of contemporary cool meets picturesque bliss thanks to its storied history where it feels like you’ve stepped back in time as you meander around the narrow alleyways and discover hidden treasures of the city around every cobblestoned corner.

But that’s not all Lisbon has to offer.

No siree! Can we take a moment to talk about the food in Lisbon?! 

If you are a huge seafood stan, then you will be overjoyed with the fishy offerings over in Lisbon.

What could be better?

Well, for those looking to sate a sweet tooth, then try some of the delicate pastries and in particular the ‘pastel de nata’ which is one of the most delicious custard tarts you could ever dream of – there’s no doubt that your taste buds will be in heaven.

Without a doubt, Liston is one of the best places to visit in Portugal for an enriching city break, but if you are a bit more partial to sunning yourself on a sandy stretch, then you may or may not be surprised to learn that Lisbon is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

Whether you favour peaceful hidden coves for tranquil seclusion, spectacular surfing spots or simply a fun-filled beach for families, there’s a deckchair with your name on it. 

Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to relax and unwind, Lisbon is the perfect destination for your next holiday. 

‘Wine’ wouldn’t you go to Porto?!

Not only is it a very quaint and culturally-rich city, but it’s also the gateway to the renowned Douro Valley too making it one of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Alcoholic beverage puns aside, it’s easy to see why Porto is one of the best places to visit in Portugal over and above its wine heritage.

It’s got it all – culture, a fantastic foodie scene and it’s even home to the prettiest McDonald in not just all of Portugal, but quite possibly the whole of Europe.

That’s definitely worthy of the ‘gram isn’t it?

However if you are more about local produce than fast food, then rest assured that you will not leave any culinary stone overturned as Porto has increasingly garnered quite the reputation for being a great foodie destination.

It’s renowned for its delicious seafood, pastries, and street food that will keep your taste buds happy.

But Porto isn’t just about food and wine.

It’s a city that’s rich in history and culture. You can explore the picturesque Ribeira district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a stroll along the Douro River.

You can also visit the stunning and ornate Livraria Lello bookstore, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s depiction of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter books. Accio wand!

If you are looking for one of the best places to visit in Portugal that is a little bit off the beaten path then look no further than the charming town of Faro.

Located in the southern region of Portugal, this coastal town is a delightful mix of history, culture and stunning natural beauty.

Take a wander through the town’s ancient walled city, which dates back to Roman times which are lined with traditional Portuguese houses, quaint cafes, and cute artisan shops selling handmade crafts. 

If surfing, kayaking and sailing float your proverbial boat then you are in luck as Faro is renowned for its fantastic beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Faro’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Portugal, and are an ideal place to try your hand at a variety of water sports.

If culture and history are more your thing, then you will love exploring the town’s many museums and historic landmarks.

You will be mesmerised by the likes of the Faro Cathedral – a beautiful Gothic building that dates back to the 13th century.

Also the Arco da Vila, a gate that leads into the Old Town which is another absolute must-see and the Cova dos Mouros which  is a fascinating archaeological site that dates back to the Bronze Age.

For those looking for a chilled holiday with delicious food, you will love Faro for its sunny climate and laid-back vibe.

It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal at one of the town’s many restaurants. 

With over 300 days of sunshine every year, it’s easy to see why so many visitors flock to the Algarve and in particular Albufeira which is one of the best places to visit in Portugal.

From its whitewashed buildings, endless delicious seafood, golden sands and of course the thrilling nightlife, Albufeira is also a pretty stellar hotspot for culture, sports and more.

It’s also the perfect base for discovering everything that the Algarve has to offer.

It’s strikingly beautiful from its stunning beaches to its red and orange-coloured cliffs which offer breathtaking views over the Atlantic ocean.

Two of the best beaches in Albufeira are nestled just in front of the Old Town – the Praia do Pescadores and Praia do Peneco, but it’s worth venturing just west of Albufeira where you will find great beaches like Praia dos Arrifes and Praia da Coelha.

This definitely warrants a place on the best places to visit in Portugal list.

One of the best things to do when in Albufeira is to take a boat or a catamaran cruise at sunset (with a glass of bubbly in hand, of course) and you sail through the waters of some truly mesmerising sights such as the Benagil Cave.

If you are all about the food and when you are in the Algarve you can’t fail to enjoy some of the region’s signature dishes such as the conquilhas à Algarvia – a clam-based dish mixed with onion, sausage, garlic and herbs.

Or why not try some suckling pig in herbs or for a sweeter tooth, some of the most delicious pastries which are flavoured with almonds and cinnamon.