I would be kidding if I said Portugal isn’t one of my favourite destinations in Europe. Great food, great people, incredible coast lines… there really isn’t anything I don’t love about this country! After a few visits to Portugal over the past few years, I’ve found some standout favourites to encourage you to get there on your next Euro adventure… so here they are! The 8 places you must visit in Portugal!
1. Lisbon
Starting in Lisbon is not only the most convenient way to get going with your visit to Portugal, but also a great insight into what this country and its people are all about. My favourite neighbourhood is hands down Alfama, my favourite restaurant is Mini Bar and my favourite food is the traditional Portuguese tart. Try all three and I promise you, you won’t have a bad time!
Read more: A Quick Guide to Lisbon
2. Sintra
Just a short drive from Portugal’s capital is the gorgeous, charming little town known as Sintra. The buildings are playfully colourful and the small cafe-lined streets are a great excuse to people-watch. I could have spent an entire day here meandering the sloped alleyways!
Read more: Visiting Sintra & Cascais as a day trip from Lisbon
3. Lagos
If you ask me Lagos is where you will find the most impressive beaches in Portugal. The colourful red rock cliff faces, the secluded beaches and the never-ending year round sunshine make this one of my all time destinations in the Mediterranean! If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, I checked in for a girls weekend at the Villa Vita Parc and it was one of my favourite holidays of all time!
Read more: A Guide to the Algarve: Portugal’s most loved holiday destination
4. Pastéis de Belém
One of the most popular places just outside of Lisbon and an absolute must visit (let me make sure I don’t overstate this —- MAKE SURE YOU GO!) is Pastéis de Belém – home to the famous Portuguese Tarts. The tarts have a warm eggy centre due to the constant output and never ending line of tourists and locals waiting to get their hands on a bagful.
Make your own at home! Pastel de Nata Recipe
5. Douro
If you hire a car for your time in Portugal and want a beautiful region to discover, check out the Douro Valley in the North of Portugal. The landscape are absolutely stunning but as always in Portugal, the food and wine are just as mesmerising!
(Image via Marco Varisco)
6. Pena Palace
If you make your way to Sintra (which I highly suggest you do), you absolutely cannot miss Pena Palace, located high on the hill overlooking the surrounding region. The colourful castle is one of Europe’s most beautiful – the photo is proof!
Shutterstock
7. Porto
Outside of Lisbon, Porto is one of the most popular cities to visit in Portugal. With a medieval past and incredibly authentic riverside, this is without a doubt one of the most gorgeous cities in Western Europe to discover.
(Image via)
8. Aveiro
Located on the West Coast of Portugal is this gorgeous, quintessential coastal town that surprisingly is little-known. Expect canals filled with colourful boats, intricate architecture and extremely welcoming locals. If you’re looking for a hidden gem to discover, this is it.
(Image via Gabriel Gonzalez)
