Best Things to Do In Portugal
Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Portugal's legendary heritage and vibrant culture with our audio tours.
Best Things to Do In Portugal
Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Portugal's legendary heritage and vibrant culture with our audio tours.
Portimão: Praia da Rocha
What is it?
A bustling resort town known for its massive beach and lively atmosphere.
Why you should go?
Portimão's Praia da Rocha is a slice of coastal splendor, offering expansive stretches of sand and the perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment. With its stunning rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of seaside bars and clubs, this hotspot delivers some of the best beach-side things to do in Portugal. Adventure lovers and sun-seekers alike will find pleasure in water sports, the local cuisine, and the vibrant nightlife.
Obidos: Obidos Castle
What is it?
A well-preserved medieval castle nestled in a picturesque walled town.
Why you should go?
The charm of Obidos is encapsulated in its historic castle, surrounded by traditional whitewashed houses and cobblestone paths. Visitors can immerse themselves in a medieval setting that transports them through time, making it one of the unique places to visit in Portugal. Beyond its architectural grandeur, the town hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the famous chocolate festival, which sweetens the appeal of coming here.
Tomar: Convent of Christ
What is it?
A former Templar stronghold, now a convent, showcasing a blend of architectural styles.
Why you should go?
As history weaves through the remarkable Convent of Christ in Tomar, visitors explore a treasure of religious and architectural significance. This UNESCO World Heritage site captivates with its ornate Manueline window and the Charola, the original Templar chapel. A visit here is a profound journey through the narratives that shaped Portugal, making it a cornerstone among things to see in Portugal for those appreciative of deep historical roots.
Nazaré: Praia do Norte
What is it?
A famed beach known for its towering waves and surfing challenges.
Why you should go?
Praia do Norte in Nazaré is synonymous with breathtaking natural wonders, boasting some of the tallest waves in the world, a feature that has put it firmly on the map for thrill-seeking surfers and spectators. Even if surfing isn’t on your agenda, the spectacle of the immense swells is, in itself, one of the most compelling Portugal activities. The adjacent lighthouse and museum offer insights into the surfing phenomena and the power of nature on display.
Belem: Belem Tower
What is it?
A fortified tower that is an icon of maritime exploration and Portuguese architecture.
Why you should go?
In the historic district of Belem, the Belem Tower stands as a sentinel over the Tagus River. This emblematic structure is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also an embodiment of the Age of Discoveries. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy stunning views, or simply admire the intricacy of its stonework up close. It ranks among the top things to do in Portugal for history enthusiasts and culture vultures alike.
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Coimbra: University of Coimbra
What is it?
An ancient university with a stunning library, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why you should go?
The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest in Europe, offering visitors a deep dive into Portugal's scholarly traditions. At its heart lies the Baroque Joanina Library, a magnificent spectacle housing historic manuscripts. The university's grandiose architecture and elevated views over Coimbra make it a beacon for academics and architecture buffs. The site embodies centuries of knowledge and culture, making it a significant highlight for what to do in Portugal.
Braga: Bom Jesus do Monte
What is it?
A pilgrimage sanctuary boasting a monumental stairway in a serene forest setting.
Why you should go?
The sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is a perfect amalgamation of spirituality and natural beauty. Climbing the elaborate baroque stairway dotted with chapels, sculptures, and fountains is an experience that captures the essence of Portuguese devotion. This haven of tranquility provides not only a spiritual journey but also panoramic views of Braga. It's considered one of the must-visit Portugal attractions, uniting nature, art, and faith.
Guimarães: Guimarães Castle
What is it?
A medieval castle considered the birthplace of Portugal with an impressive military structure.
Why you should go?
Visitors eager to delve into the historical roots of the nation will find Guimarães Castle as a compulsory stop. As one of the key places to visit in Portugal, this imposing fortress transports you back to the times of battles and sieges. Wander its lofty ramparts and soak in the medieval atmosphere, all while uncovering the pivotal role the castle played in Portuguese history. It's a striking testament to the country's storied past, offering an enriching experience for history enthusiasts.
Aveiro: Ria de Aveiro
What is it?
A coastal lagoon with distinctive canal systems, often called the 'Venice of Portugal'.
Why you should go?
Ria de Aveiro presents a serene waterscape lined with colorful moliceiros, the traditional boats of the region. It's the ideal location for those pondering what to see in Portugal beyond its landlocked treasures. The lagoon offers a chance for visitors to embrace Portugal activities such as boat tours, bird-watching, and admiring the art nouveau architecture in Aveiro. Ria de Aveiro's unique charm weaves an unforgettable tapestry of nature and nautical culture.
Madeira: Laurisilva of Madeira
What is it?
An expansive, ancient laurel forest that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why you should go?
Nature seekers looking for the best things to do in Portugal will revel in the verdant expanse of Madeira's Laurisilva. This primeval forest is one of the last of its kind, providing a sanctuary for unique flora and fauna. Hiking through the mist-enshrouded footpaths, visitors will encounter picturesque waterfalls and gurgling levadas (aqueducts). It's a natural masterpiece offering an escape to the wilderness, presenting a completely different palette of Portuguese wonders.
Lisbon: Jerónimos Monastery
What is it?
A masterpiece of Manueline architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Why you should go?
Be dazzled by one of the most prominent Portugal attractions as you step into Jerónimos Monastery. With its rich maritime history and grandiose naves, this architectural jewel represents the pinnacle of Portuguese artistry. The monastery's ornate cloisters and intricate sculptures are a testament to the Age of Discovery, making it a must for historically inclined visitors and admirers of exquisite craftsmanship.
Porto: Dom Luís I Bridge
What is it?
An iconic double-deck metal arch bridge spanning the Douro River.
Why you should go?
Spanning the Douro, the Dom Luís I Bridge is not just a means of transport, it's a symbol of Porto's industrial progression and a prime viewpoint for the city's terraced landscape. Walking across the top deck offers breathtaking panoramas, firmly placing it among the best things to do in Portugal for photographers and sightseers alike. The bridge's blend of structural ingenuity and aesthetic appeal is a powerful magnet for culture enthusiasts.
Algarve: Praia da Marinha
What is it?
A world-renowned beach celebrated for its stunning cliffs and clear waters.
Why you should go?
The Algarve region is replete with spectacular places to visit in Portugal, and Praia da Marinha stands out as a coastal paradise. Its golden sands, rock formations, and crystalline sea create a postcard-perfect setting. Whether it's for a relaxing day under the sun or exploring sea caves by kayak, this beach promises a sublime escape from the everyday rush and ranks highly among the top things to do in Portugal.
Sintra: Pena Palace
What is it?
An exuberant palace atop a hill in Sintra, blending multiple architectural styles.
Why you should go?
The Pena Palace is an explosion of color and creativity, perched on Sintra's hills, and is a testament to the vision of King Ferdinand II. The mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles, together with its romantic gardens, make it a staple of what to see in Portugal. Like stepping into a real-life fairytale book, visitors can explore rooms still furnished as they were in the 19th century, while outdoor terraces offer awe-inspiring views over Sintra.
Évora: Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)
What is it?
A chilling chapel adorned with the bones and skulls of over 5,000 individuals.
Why you should go?
In the heart of Évora lies the Chapel of Bones, a thought-provoking site that emboldens the Portugal activities list with a macabre edge. This unique attraction is a meditation on life's ephemeral nature, where walls lined with human remains invoke a deep sense of history and contemplation. It's a standout amongst the things to do in Portugal for those drawn to the mysterious and reflective aspects of cultural experiences.
TOP-5 Free Tours in Portugal
- Explore the historic streets of Lisbon as you uncover some of the top things to do in Portugal through its capital's charismatic charm and monuments.
- Indulge in the mesmerizing beauty of Porto's riverside landscape, a focal point of Portugal tourist attractions and a haven of cultural enchantment.
- Discover the pristine corners of the Algarve, where what to do in Portugal transcends into golden beaches and captivating coastal activities.
- Trek to the heart of Sintra's fairy-tale palaces and gardens, an iconic representation of things to see in Portugal, wrapped in mystique and splendor.
- Walk the pilgrim trails to Santiago de Compostela starting from Portugal, engaging in an age-old tradition that captivates with spiritual allure and cultural significance.