The Best Things to Do in Portugal: Hotspots and Hidden Gems

Portugal is a destination that truly has it all — from the sun-drenched golden beaches of the Algarve region to the enchanting streets of Lisbon that make time stand still, the country offers an array of experiences that captivate every traveler.

Wondering what to do in Portugal? Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or a history lover, there are so many top things to do in Portugal to make your stay memorable.

In this guide, we explore a mix of popular bucket list hotspots and off-the-beaten-path gems, taking you on a journey through Portugal’s most captivating destinations and activities that might convince you to make the move permanent.

Top Attractions and Popular Experiences in Portugal

The best things to see in Portugal will differ for each person depending on their preferences. Whether you prefer exploring ancient castles or indulging in a delicious food tour of the country’s best dishes for your travel blog, every corner of Portugal offers something special. Of course, visiting every attraction would take a long time, so it is good to know the types of experiences you want to have and the top places you would like to see.

Perhaps you are traveling as a family and looking for the best things to do in Portugal with kids, or maybe you are a young professional traveling with friends and on the lookout for the top things to do in Portugal for young adults.

On the other hand, you may just be interested in getting a glimpse of the natural beauty of the world-renowned beaches or have your sights set on day tours of the historic landmarks in the oldest cities. Either way, once you have your own list of top places to visit and fun things to do in Portugal, it will make planning your time a lot easier.

See what sparks your interest in our list below and start bookmarking your favorites for your own experiences.

1. Check off the bucket list top attractions in Portugal

There are certain “must see in Portugal” bucket list experiences that it would almost be a crime not to include on your travel itinerary.

These are mainly historic buildings that cannot be found anywhere else in the world and natural sites that hint at why Portugal is one of the world’s best and most beautiful countries.

Here are our top bucket list Portugal tourist attractions to check off:

• Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery: Also known as the Torre de Belém, the Belém Tower is one of Portugal’s most famous historical sights. Make sure you get yourself an entry ticket to climb to the top, which will give you 360-degree views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. A short walk from the Belém Tower, you’ll find Jerónimos Monastery. Like the Tower, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was also built in the 16th century to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s discoveries. You will find the tombs of the explorer, as well as other notable figures, housed in the monastery.
• Discover the palaces of Sintra: Be transported into your very own fairytale in these palaces in Sintra, one of the most unique places to visit in Portugal. An entry ticket to the world-famous Pena Palace should be at the top of the list, with unique, colorful features. The romantic, lush gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, an opulent Gothic palace, are also worth a visit. The Castle of Moors also adds a medieval tone to the area. This is a perfect day trip location if you’re in the area of Lisbon.
• Visit the Dom Luís I Bridge: If you find yourself in Porto, you cannot leave without a visit to the Dom Luís I Bridge, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. This double-deck iron bridge connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia over the Douro River, offering some of the best panoramic views in the city. Whether you walk across the top level alongside the metro or take the lower deck closer to the river, the stunning vistas of Porto’s colorful hillside and the historic Ribeira district are unforgettable.

3. Feast on the world-class food

Portugal’s culinary scene is an event on its own, with a masterful blend of flavors and each region offering something unique. The excellent food available is one of the many reasons Portugal’s quality of life is so high – along with the country’s pleasant weather, stable economy, low crime rates, and value-for-money real estate options.

Lisbon’s traditional eateries in the Baixa and Chiado Districts are an excellent place to start, where you’ll find incredible local food at tascas (family-owned traditional restaurants) and taste the best of traditional Portuguese dishes. You’ll have your pick of some of the world’s top restaurants serving local and international cuisine, and offering everyday comforts or fine dining options for a more refined dining experience. 

Recently, Lisbon was crowned as the Best Culinary Destination in Europe at the World Culinary Awards, further showcasing that eating in Lisbon means experiencing the best European gastronomy.

The Ribeira District in Porto is another trendy option, providing a vibrant atmosphere on the riverside. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional and more modern dishes, all to be enjoyed with Porto’s signature Port wine.

If you’re keen to try the best food unique to Portugal, we would recommend:

• Francesinha: Originating in Porto, this is a sandwich filled with three kinds of meat (ham, sausage, and steak) and covered with melted cheese and a thick sauce made from tomato and beer.
• Bacalhau: A dried, salted cod dish which can be prepared in numerous ways, including fried, baked, or with potatoes and eggs
• Caldo verde: A hearty shredded cabbage soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo
• Pastel de nata: The iconic custard tart. Need we say more.

5. Experience the wonders of whale watching or explore marine life at the Oceanário de Lisboa

Something about whale watching gives you a newfound appreciation for marine life. Their majestic, graceful nature draws your attention and leaves you in wonder about just how vast the ocean is.

Portugal offers exciting whale and dolphin-watching excursions, which are popular in the Azores and Madeira islands. The ideal time to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants of the sea is from spring to autumn in Portugal.

For those who want to continue exploring the marvels of the ocean without heading out to sea, a visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa is a must. Located in Lisbon, this world-class aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and home to over 8,000 marine creatures.

Its stunning central tank, designed to replicate the open ocean, will leave you in awe. Perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone looking to deepen their connection to the underwater world, the Oceanário de Lisboa is a captivating addition to any Portugal touring itinerary.

7. Witness historic wonders on cultural tours

In a country brimming with rich history, there are thousands of cultural tours, tours of historic sites, and even historical tours specializing in Portugal’s many churches and cathedrals.

Depending on where you find yourself in Portugal, it is easy to research nearby tours on travel sites to see which sounds most interesting to you or to pick a tour based on the sights you most want to see. Popular places for cultural tours due to their uniqueness, history, and variety of cultural sites include:

• Cascais and Sintra
• Alfama
• Evora
• Óbidos
• Tomar
• Fatima
• Santa Maria

9. Spoil yourself with private and luxury experiences

For those who prefer to travel in style, book private yacht cruises along the Douro River with fine dining options prepared by Michelin chefs and the finest wines flowing aboard.

If you prefer to stay on land, many luxury tours in Lisbon, Algarve, Porto, and the Alentejo region feature winemaking, private dinners, and a curated tour experience.

Popular Places to Stay in Portugal

While there are endless attractions and unique things to do in Portugal, no matter which places you choose to visit, having a basic background of what you will see in each place in Portugal will help you navigate the areas a little easier. Here’s a summary of some of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Lisbon

As Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon is a hub for international travelers. A blend of preserved culture and modern innovation, the city is a must see when traveling to Portugal and one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe.

With a warm, Mediterranean climate, vibrant nightlife scene, cobbled streets, and sun-kissed beaches of the Atlantic Sea, Lisbon continues to be a top choice for travelers and expats living in Portugal.

Some of the best things to see in Portugal while staying or living in Lisbon include:

• Miradouros – city viewpoints in Lisbon (try the Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Graca)
• LX Factory – A trendy spot full of restaurants, shops, and street art
• Santa Justa lift
• Alfama – Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood
• Bairro Alto – a hub for nightlife
• Sao Jorge Castle – one of Lisbon’s biggest historic attractions
• Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery

Want to know more? Check out our article for a full dedicated list of the best things to do in Lisbon.

Porto

Expats in Portugal often opt to stay in Porto rather than Lisbon – and for good reason. Not lacking in rich history and tradition by any means, Porto can be found along the beautiful riverside setting of the Douro River and is the birthplace of the world-famous port wine. The city is less crowded than Lisbon and boasts a trendy food scene for travelers looking to taste the best of Portugal’s gastronomy.

The city is celebrated for its stunning architecture, featuring the iconic ornate azulejos (ceramic tiles) that decorate many of its buildings. With its charming town and a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, Porto offers an authentic Portuguese experience.

Planning to stay in Porto? Some of the best Portugal attractions in Porto are:

• The Ribeira district 
• Dom Luis I Bridge, the iconic bridge that connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia over the Douro River
• Sao Bento railway station 
• Port wine in the Douro Valley
• Beach day at Matosinhos Beach

For more information, check out our full list of the best things to do in Porto to make the most of your time there. 

Algarve

Affectionately known as the ‘Florida of Europe’, the Algarve is famous for its breathtaking coastline, featuring golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and picturesque caves. This makes it the go-to destination in the summertime. 

Active and adventurous travelers in Portugal choose a pitstop in the Algarve region because it is a haven for water sports, golfing, and exploring quaint fishing villages that dot the coastline.

If staying in Algarve is on your list, its capital, Faro, is the best place to take in the charming old town culture of the area, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and traditional Portuguese architecture. 

Lagos is another popular area to stay in the Algarve, featuring charming, cobbled streets that come alive with the sounds of street musicians, buzzing rooftop bars, and the aroma of fresh seafood grilling in cozy local restaurants. Lagos has become an especially popular location among expats choosing to settle in Portugal, particularly American expats, due to its beautiful setting and ability to cater to a variety of lifestyles.   

Here you can spend your days kayaking through the otherworldly sea caves of Ponta da Piedade (a group of rock formations along the Lagos coastline) or uncovering the town’s rich past at the historic Fort of Ponta da Bandeira landmark.

Cascais

With beautiful beaches framing the Atlantic Ocean, Cascais offers a perfect spot for relaxation and water sports. The charming town preserves a piece of history with its charming streets, museums, and the impressive Cascais Citadel. 

Additionally, Cascais is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Sintra’s palaces and Lisbon, making it a diverse, convenient, and enriching travel destination. 

Cascais real estate investment is also a hot attraction for expats looking to live in a stunning part of Portugal not far from Lisbon city.

Sintra

Sintra is for history and architecture lovers, known for its fairytale-like palaces and amazing architectural wonders. 

Located very close to Lisbon, This UNESCO World Heritage Site town can be explored on a day trip or over a weekend visit if you want to add both places to your travel itinerary. 

While visiting Sintra may feel like stepping into a fairytale, staying in Sintra means you get to live in one. Its misty forests, whimsical palaces, and ancient castles create a dreamlike escape. 

Wake up to the sight of Pena Palace perched on its hilltop, explore the mysterious tunnels of Quinta da Regaleira, and end your day indulging in a warm travesseiro (Sintra’s signature puff pastry filled with a sweet almond cream) at a charming local café.

The Islands

Portugal’s islands, the Azores and Madeira, offer breathtaking natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and lush greenery – enough to make any nature lover’s dreams come true. 

Travel to these islands of paradise to snap viral-worthy photos of the scenery or take the more adventurous route by tackling a fun hike through the forests.

Evora

Another checkpoint for history lovers, Évora in the Alentejo region is known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture, earning it UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

The city’s historic center is characterized by its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and iconic landmarks like the Roman Temple of Évora and the eerie Chapel of Bones – a unique window into Portugal’s past.

What Travelers Are Saying

As a traveler, you most likely want to see and experience things in Portugal that you won’t be able to do elsewhere.

Seeing iconic sights and unrivaled beauty, learning about Portugal’s history, meeting the people, and experiencing the Portuguese lifestyle are some of the top reasons to explore the different regions and learn from the local experts on tours.

Perhaps you’re also traveling to discover if Portugal is a place where you could consider living, in which case, you might find our guide on living in Portugal as an expat helpful for taking that next step.

If you’ve been enchanted while visiting Portugal and are looking to make the move permanent, Goldcrest can help you uncover your dream home. As buyer’s agents, we can guide you through the steps of moving to Portugal and ensure a smooth process for buying your new home. Reach out by filling in the contact form below and we’ll do the rest.