7 Best places to visit in Portugal, Europe
Portugal is one of the most visited countries in all of Europe. Positioned on the western coast of the Iberian peninsula, this country is known for its idyllic climate, beautiful attractions and affordable travel costs. Its rich culture and history can be found in every direction you look, embedded in the architecture itself. From the stretch of beaches and towns from Faro to Lagos and the beautiful buildings of Lisbon and Porto, there are plenty of reasons to visit. Below, we’ve outlined a few of the best places to visit in Portugal to help you plan your next trip.
7. Coimbra
Coimbra is a city full of charm that is home to various gardens, historic sites and a one-of-a-kind culture derived from one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is easy to get lost in the city exploring its many architectural wonders and charms, such as the Gothic Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha or the Old Cathedral.
6. Azores
The Azores is a volcanic stretch of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic 1,500 kilometers from the shores of continental Portugal. The islands offer plenty of outdoor things to do as well as gorgeous landscapes. It is a common hiking destination.
5. Porto
Porto is famous for its fine port wine and is a busy city that that reaches across the hills overlooking the Douro River. It is beloved for both its architectural and natural beauty. Good public transportation makes it easy to get around.
4. Madeira
Nicknamed “the floating garden of the Atlantic,” Madeira is a fertile Island located between North Africa and Portugal. It is a popular destination for those who love flower gardens, lush green landscapes and wine. It is known for its New Year celebrations that show off one of the largest fireworks displays in the world.
3. Sintra
Sintra is located in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains along the Lisbon Coast. It is known for its beautiful villas, green hills and even castles and palaces that are as old as the 8th century.
2. Algarve
This location is famous for its beautiful beaches, perfect Mediterranean climate, flower-dense hills and picturesque towns, not to mention its cuisine. It is found in the southernmost area of the country bringing all of that charm with it. This city has both quaint areas and bustling city streets alike, giving you a diverse experience that is peppered with Roman ruins.
1. Lisbon
Lisbon rests near the Atlantic Ocean along the Tagus River. It is its largest city and the capital of Portugal that is graced with steep hills, cute shops, little alleys, big bridges and Gothic cathedrals. Its diverse neighborhoods, or bairros, are one of the biggest draws with a variety of architecture and lifestyles. It is also the cultural hub with its concert halls, museums and theaters, so there is no shortage of things to do.
Final Word
With so many beautiful cities waiting to be seen, Portugal should definitely be on your must-travel list. Use this article as a jump point when sitting down to plan your visit.