Portugal truly has it all for that unforgettable holiday - a fascinating history, friendly people, great weather and incredible beaches. With so much natural beauty and character, it’s no wonder that visitors return year after year to this beautiful haven.
We've selected just some of the top tourist attractions in Portugal, so you know where to go.
Portugal Tourist Attractions
1. Algarve Beaches
One of the top 10 places to visit in Portugal has to be the Algarve. There are about 100 sandy beaches on the Algarve’s Atlantic coastline, with rust-hued cliffs and rock formations creating an impressive backdrop. Due to the maritime shelf and water currents, the sea temperature is surprisingly warm and relaxing.
Make sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and whales which can often be spotted off the Algarve coast! As well as the beaches, they have some lovely towns; we suggest staying in Albufeira or Praia da Rocha, two lovely seaside spots on your Algarve getaway.
2. Historic Silves
This well-preserved historic town is the former capital of the Algarve and was the most important city in the south of Portugal during Moorish times. The Castelo de Silves is the impressive, solid red-brick castle where the Moors ruled over the entire Algarve.
There are tonnes of historical architecture to admire, from the Portas da Cidade to the Se Cathedral, so make sure this is included on your itinerary! As well as the rich history, this town is surrounded by rolling hills and filled with cobbled streets to take everything at a slower pace.
3. Cape St. Vincent
One of the best tourist attractions in Portugal is the ‘End of the World’ in the Algarve. Cape St. Vincent in Portugal is the most south-westerly point of Europe’s mainland. Here you can enjoy breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean from this jagged cliff top setting.
Since 1520, the lighthouse of D. Fernando was built and is a beautiful landmark with an interesting history. Being remodelled since to save it from ruin, this is a site you can still walk around and enjoy.
4. Belem Tower
This tower is to Lisbon what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris or Big Ben is to London, so has to be named as one of the best Portugal tourist attractions. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has a unique design including a striking bastion extending over the river. It has over 5 floors and is decorated with eye-catching, architectural details which anyone would enjoy.
It is the city's most photographed landmark which, along with the marvellous ‘Monument to the Discoveries’, should top your list of must-see monuments in Lisbon. It is also located close by to Jerónimos Monastery so can be admired together on a day trip.
5. Jerónimos Monastery
Another one of the best UNESCO sights in Portugal is the Jerónimos Monastery designed by Portuguese architect Diogo de Boitaca. It took many years to finish as construction started in 1501 and it wasn’t completed until 100 years later. It’s a fine example of Manueline or Portuguese late gothic.
If you’re looking for one of the best places to try a Pastel de Nata in Lisbon, we suggest Pastéis de Belém as they have followed the original recipe from the Jerónimos Monastery since 1837. You can enjoy the laid back atmosphere of Portugal's capital, a place overflowing with history and culture with our Lisbon City Break or on a guided excursion on our Estoril & Lisbon Coast holiday.
6. Sintra National Palace
Sintra National Palace is a beautiful 16th century palace that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where the Portuguese Royal Family formerly spent their summers and is the only palace that spans the entire history of Portugal.
This fairy tale town is located in the hills of the Sintra Mountains and has become iconic which is why it’s in our top 10 places to visit in Portugal. You’ll be able to see the two chimneys that soar above the kitchens before you enter and its gothic exterior juxtaposes the decorative state rooms inside.
7. Porto City
Located on the Douro River in Northern Portugal, Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Lovers of the arts will be spoilt for choice in Porto.
Visit the Rua Miguel Bombard, home to many of the city’s galleries, and the Palacio da Bolsa do Porto (the stock exchange building) – one of the most attractive buildings in the city. A city break to Porto is perfect for those looking for a quick and cultural Portuguese escape.
8. Pinhão Train Station
Another way to discover the top sights in Portugal is with a relaxing Douro river cruise. One of the highlights is to see the lovely town of Pinhão and its famous train station, decorated with blue and white tiles which is known as ‘azulejos’, a form of Portuguese tile work which is often seen throughout the country on various buildings.
The tiles illustrate the production of Port wine – starting with the harvest, through to the treading and the transport. Designed by J. Oliveira, this train station is one of many they have decorated. If you love art and history, this is one of the top Portugal tourist attractions for you!
9. Guimarães City
The “Cradle of the Portuguese Nation”, Guimarães historic medieval centre is incredibly well preserved and it was the first capital of Portugal. Considered as the birthplace of Portugal as the first king was born here, its heritage is well-preserved and authentic.
Walking through this city takes you back in time, with medieval features such as granite balconies, iron verandas and arches connecting the different streets. Although it is small, it is filled with fascinating attractions making it feel much bigger.
10. Braga City
On our Discover Porto, Braga and Santiago de Compostela tour we’ll discover Portugal’s third-largest city. An elegant town laced with ancient narrow lanes, strewn with plazas and a splendid array of baroque churches.
The constant chiming of bells is a reminder of Braga’s age-old devotion to the spiritual world. Its religious festivals – particularly the elaborately staged Semana Santa (Holy Week) – are famous throughout Portugal.
There are so many wonderful sights and our local expert guides on one of our escorted holidays to Portugal can provide true insight to their beautiful country.
