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Portugal in July: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun

Thinking about visiting Portugal in July? It’s one of the busiest months of the year, and with good reason. Read on for the best information on what Portugal has to offer in July.

Why visit Portugal in July?

There’s more going on in July than we could ever talk about in one article. For instance, July is the height of Portugal’s summer festival season . Festivities in July cater to foodies and music fans alike, as well as vacationers who want to experience authentic Portuguese culture and traditions.

And if you want to get back to nature, Portugal is a perfect choice. There’s no better month than July for hiking in the northern region of the country, or catching waves at one of the fantastic surf camps along Portugal’s coast.

Plus, with such nice summer weather, the beaches all over Portugal will be ready for your arrival. Portugal enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine per year , and you’ll rarely see a rainy day in July.

Looking for a more urban holiday? Cities like Lisbon and Porto throw their arms wide open, offering rooftop bars , sunset cruises, and a spirited nightlife .

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Best things to do in Portugal in July

See the tall ship races in lisbon.

The Tall Ship Races return to Lisbon on July 2 this year, bringing high seas excitement to the city. Visitors can come aboard these gorgeous tall ships from around the world — and adventurous young adults can sign up to work as crew members!

Lisbon was the very first port of call for The Tall Ships Races, back in 1956. The last time the Tall Ships were here was 2016, so seeing them this year should be on every vacation itinerary. Check them out at the Lisbon Cruise Terminal from July 2 to 5, and enjoy a jaunt around the city center before or after.

Visit some of the best beaches in Europe

There are so many great beaches in Portugal, and July is a fantastic time to visit. With 352 Blue Flag beaches named in Portugal in 2019, you’ll never run out of vacation choices.

The Algarve beaches are, of course, some of the most popular. But don’t overlook Alentejo beaches , Silver Coast beaches , or beaches near Porto or Lisbon !

To get a complete guide, check out our article on the best beaches in Portugal .

Go windsurfing on the Atlantic

If you’re more interested in the waves than the beach, try your hand at windsurfing. With more than 1,000 miles of coastline, Portugal is a perfect place to windsurf – or just sit back and watch the action, if you prefer a beach towel to an adrenaline rush.

Try the Algarve in the south of Portugal or, if you’re extra adventurous, Nazaré to the north. Waves are smaller at the beginning of summer, and grow as the season progresses. And there are plenty of surf camps in Portugal , if you’re looking to learn.

While you’ll love the sunny skies, you’ll still probably want a wetsuit, no matter what. The coastal waters don’t get warmer than maybe 70 degrees F in summertime.

Celebrate Portugal’s sardine season

July and August are the height of sardine season . Portugal celebrates with feasts and festivals everywhere in the country, from Lisbon’s city center to tiny, out-of-the-way villages dotting the coast.

You’ll see grilled whole sardines on just about every restaurant menu, often served with buttery boiled potatoes. These sardinhas assadas are a delicious, traditional dish, best enjoyed on a sunny patio with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Go hiking in Serra da Estrela

With its highest peak at more than 6,500 feet high, the Serra da Estrela mountain range is a wonderful place for a hike. The Serra da Estrela Nature Park draws tons of summer vacationers, offering hiking routes of various lengths and difficulties.

While hiking in Serra da Estrela is a lovely summertime activity, keep in mind that the mountains are high enough to get very cold, nasty weather in winter. It’s the only part of Portugal that regularly sees snow!

Experience the Festa dos Tabuleiros

While this event doesn’t happen again until July 2023, it’s definitely worth a mention. The Festa dos Tabuleiros (Festival of the Trays) takes place every four years in Tomar .

This festival is the continuation of a 13th-century religious celebration. Its highlight is a parade in which girls carry tabuleiros on their heads: giant trays carrying 30 stacked pieces of bread, decorated with flowers, and topped with a crown. Unique and lots of fun, it attracts visitors from around the world.

Portugal in July is all about music festivals

We’ve already mentioned music festivals. But you should prepare yourself for some of the biggest festivals in Europe. Headliners at Portugal’s annual music fests range from A$AP Rocky to Incubus. Here are three of the biggest and best festivals happening in Portugal in July.

NOS Alive

When: July 8, 9, 10, and 11, 2020

Where: Algés, Oeiras

It’s a big year for NOS Alive. Their headliners for 2020 include Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and The Strokes, confirming this festival as a “something for everyone” event. Debuting as Optimus Alive! in 2007, NOS Alive has earned a spot as an annual favorite among festival-goers. It’s held in Algés, a suburb near the Tagus River between Oeiras and Lisbon, so this music and arts festival is a super-quick train ride from central Lisbon.

In addition to its outstanding musical lineup, NOS Alive also offers a comedy stage, clubbing stage, and even a cute Fado café where you can hear the traditional music of Portugal.

Learn more about NOS Alive here .

Metronomy Portugal

Super Bock Super Rock

When: July 16, 17, and 18, 2020

Where: Meco Beach, Sesimbra

Since its premiere in 1994, the annual Super Bock Super Rock music festival has become one of the biggest festivals in Portugal, and a must-see for rock and metal fans. Its performers go far beyond those genres, however. For instance, last year featured Janelle Monae, Christine and the Queens, and Charlotte Gainsbourg in the lineup. The festival has changed locations a few times, but for 2020 you can catch it at Meco Beach near Sesimbra.

Learn more about Super Bock Super Rock here .

MEO Marés Vivas

When: July 17, 18, and 19, 2020

Where: Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto

MEO Marés Vivas lights up Portugal’s northern lands, bringing multiple genres to the stage in July, including Liam Payne and Snow Patrol. This is a great option for a fun few days outside Portugal’s main cities.

Learn more about MEO Marés Vivas here .

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How crowded is portugal in july.

Portugal gets pretty crowded in July. It’s one of the two busiest seasons of the year for tourism (along with August), with streets and beaches around the country filled with vacationers. It’s still a great time to visit, thanks to beautiful weather and a very popular music festival season.

What is the weather like in Portugal in July?

The weather in Portugal in July is nearly perfect – sunny, hot (but not too hot), and often refreshingly breezy in the afternoons. High temperatures in Portugal in July average 73 degrees F in Lisbon – so are usually warmer to the south and a bit cooler to the north.

When is the best time of year to go to Portugal?

The best time to go to Portugal depends on you! Summer is hot, dry, and perfect for beach vacations. Spring and fall are still very summery but tourist season is largely over, offering a bit more breathing room. Winter is atmospheric, cool, and often rainy – but with almost no vacationers.

What are the hottest months in Portugal?

The hottest months in Portugal are, in order of high temperatures, August, July, and September. Early to mid August will be the very hottest time of the year, with highs averaging about 81 degrees F and temperatures rarely going below 65 degrees F in the evening.

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Portugal in July; travel ideas for Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve in July

July is a fantastic month to visit Portugal. This is the hottest month of the year for the majority of Portugal, and is a wonderful month for a beach holiday or city break. July is regarded as the peak season for Portugal, but it will be significantly less busy than in August.

For a beach holiday, there are the lively resort towns of the Algarve or the Costa de Prata with its traditional coastal towns. For a city break, there is vibrant Lisbon or characterful Porto, both of which are fantastic in July. If you wish to visit somewhere completely undiscovered, there is the Alentejo coastline or the far north of Portugal.

July is also the perfect month for a touring holiday, taking in the central region between Lisbon and Porto, or the picturesque Algarve region. This article will provide a guide to Portugal in July, and includes suggested tours and holiday ideas. Related articles: 1 week in Portugal – Portugal best beach - Lisbon guide

Portugal weather in July

The weather in July is glorious, with hot, dry weather covering the entire country. The intense summer sun means that the interior of Portugal will be very hot, and any sightseeing is best done early in the day.

You can expect temperatures in southern Portugal to soar above 30C, and this will feel even hotter if you are out in the sun.

The temperature is slightly cooler along the western Atlantic coastline, and there are often cooling evening breezes in Lisbon and Porto. The Algarve is at its finest in July, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine per day – perfect for a beach focused holiday. Insight: You will definitely want air conditioning in your accommodation during July.

Portugal weather temperature in July

Where to go for a Portuguese holiday in July – our opinion

The best Portuguese holiday in July is either a beach holiday to the Algarve or a city break to Porto.

July is a wonderful month for a beach holiday to the Algarve. The weather is glorious, every activity and sight is full open, but there are not the crowds or hecticness of August.

Porto is outstanding for a city break or holiday. The city has many interesting sights, there are many fascinating day trips, and there are even sandy beaches close by. Porto is just as good as Lisbon, and will be much less crowded in July. Related articles: Our guide to Porto - Guide to the Algarve

porto

The Ponte Luís I bridge spanning the Douro River in Porto

Portugal holiday ideas in July

The following sections will provide ideas for your July holiday to Portugal. The first section details touring routes of Portugal that are great in July. The second section details the best beach destinations in Portugal, and includes towns that are ideal for a relaxing, lively or family holiday. The third section provides ideas for a short break to Portugal during July.

Suggested touring routes for Portugal in July

With July's fantastic weather, you could choose any part of the country for your holiday. Three outstanding tour routes of Portugal in July are; Lisbon to Porto, The Algarve, and North Portugal. The suggested tour routes are: Lisbon to Porto (2-week route) – Lisbon (4 days) with day trips to Sintra and Cascais - Mafra and Ericeira (1 day) – Peniche and Berlenga islands (1 day) - Obidos and Nazare (1 day) – Tomar and Fatima (1 day) - Coimbra (2 days) with a day trip to the schist villages – Aveiro and Costa Nova (1 day) - Porto (4 days) with day trips to Guimarães and Braga

Lisbon to Porto (1-week route) – Lisbon (1 day) – Sintra (1 day) – Cascais (1 day) – Obidos, Nazare and Batalha monastery (1 day) – Coimbra (1 day) - Porto (1 day) - Guimarães (1 day)

Tour of the Algarve - Faro (1 day) - Tavira (2 days) – Albufeira (2 days) with a day trip to Loule – Portimão/ Praia da Rocha (2 days) with a day trip to Silves – Lagos (2 days) with a day trip to Sagres

North Portugal tour - Porto (2days) - Vila do Conde and Viana do Castelo (2days) – Valença & the far north west coast (1day) - Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês (Castro Laboreiro and Peneda) 1 day driving tour - Ponte de Lima (1 day) - Braga (1 day) - Guimarães (1day) - Lamego (2 days) with Douro Valley tour along N222 road - optional Viseu (1 day) – Aveiro and Costa Nova (1 day)

If this is your first-time visiting Portugal, we would suggest either the 'Algarve Tour' or the 'Lisbon to Porto' route. The 'North Portugal' visits less well-known locations and provides a more authentic Portuguese experience. The interactive map below displays these routes. The green pins are the 'Lisbon to Porto 2-week tour', the yellow markers is the 'Algarve tour', and the blue markers is 'North Portugal' route. ( Note: zoom in to see all of the markers)

Lisbon to Porto (2weeks) 1) Lisbon 2) Sintra 3) Cascais 4) Mafra 5) Ericeira 6) Peniche 7) Obidos 8) Nazare 9) Tomar 10) Fatima 11) Coimbra 12) Aveiro 13) Porto - Additional 28) Braga 29) Guimarães 31) Douro Valley Tour of the Algarve 14) Faro 15) Tavira 16) Loule 17) Albufeira 18) Portimão 19) Silves 20) Lagos 21) Sagres North Portugal 13) Porto 22) Vila do Conde 23) Viana do Castelo 24) Valença 25) Castro Laboreiro (Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês) 26) Peneda (Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês) 27) Ponte de Lima 28) Braga 29) Guimarães 30) Lamego 31) Douro Valley - Additional 32) Viseu 12) Aveiro

Albufeira algrave

Albufeira is an fantastic holiday destintion

Douro Valley

A cruise down the picturesque Douro Valley

Coimbra portugal

The university city of Coimbra

Beach holiday destinations to Portugal in July

(for an in-depth guide to each destination, do click on the underlined links)

There are so many wonderful beach destinations to choose from in Portugal. During the peak season, the majority of foreign visitors wanting a beach holiday head to the south of Portugal, and the Algarve region. The main tourist area of the Algarve, is between Lagos and Vilamoura, and this is where all the water parks and theme parks are found.

Albufeira is Portugal's largest resort town, and is a favourite with those seeking a lively holiday with a party atmosphere. For a golfing holiday, or for a more refined getaway, the town of Vilamoura makes an ideal choice. Lagos is a historic city that is situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline, and provides the perfect blend of Portuguese culture and holiday fun.

For a calmer family holiday in July, an ideal choice would be one of the smaller towns in the Algarve region, such as Alvor , Carvoeiro and Olhos de Água . Note: The Algarve is always extremely busy throughout the summer months. We'd recommend booking flights and accommodation early to ensure you get the best deals. If you're looking for a more authentic Portuguese experience, consider the town of Tavira in the eastern Algarve. This is a delightful town, and is much more traditional than the tourist-focused towns of the western Algarve. Our opinion: For a lively holiday go to Albufeira, for a cultural holiday choose Tavira, and for a mix of both styles head to Lagos.

Praia da Rocha Algarve beach

The beautiful western Algarve coastline, this is the Praia dos Careanos just to the west of Praia da Rocha

Atlantic coastline beach resorts There are also many stunning beaches and characterful resort towns along Portugal's western Atlantic coastline.

In July, the beaches here will be less crowded than those in the Algarve region, with a welcome cooling breeze providing a break from the intense summer heat. The finest resort town of the Lisbon coastline is Cascais . Known for its stunning beaches, Cascais also offers a lively atmosphere and an authentic taste of Portuguese culture. Also close to Lisbon, and offering a more laid-back alternative, is the town of Sesimbra , which is a popular destination for the Portuguese.

The Atlantic Coast is famed for its surfing, and Ericeira is regarded as the surfing capital of Portugal. To the north of Ericeira is the delightful town of Nazaré , which in winter has waves greater than 30m high.

To the north of Portugal is the pretty beachside village of Costa Nova, with its colourful striped beach houses. The modern resort town of Povoa de Varzim lies to the north of Porto and is a popular summer destination for the city's residents.

Smaller beach towns include Foz do Arelho situated on the mouth of the tranquil Lagoa de Óbidos lagoon, or São Martinho do Porto , with its sheltered cove beach.

The pristine Alentejo coastline provides some of Portugal's quietest and least visited beaches. Along this coastline are vast sandy beaches and picturesque fishing villages, including Vila Nova de Milfontes , Porto Covo, Zambujeira do Mar and Odeceixe. To the northern side of the Alentejo coastline are the paradise beaches of the Troia Peninsula .

The Alentejo coastline is one of the best-undiscovered regions of Portugal - just avoid Sines, the location of a huge oil and gas port.

Nazaré portugal

The beautiful beach of Nazaré

Alentejo coastline

The pristine and deserted Alentejo coastline – this is the Praia do Almograve close to Vila Nova de Milfontes

The map below displays the location of the best beach resort towns in Portugal – the yellow marks are for the Algarve coastline, and the green pins are for the Atlantic coastline.

Beach holiday destions in the Algarve: 1) Albufeira 2) Vilamoura 3) Lagos 4) Alvor 5) Carvoeiro 6) Olhos de Água 7) Praia da Luz 8) Tavira Beach holiday destions along Atlantic coastline: 9) Cascais 10) Sesimbra 11) Ericeira 12) Nazaré 13) Costa Nova 14) Povoa de Varzim 15) Foz do Arelho 16) São Martinho do Porto 17) Vila Nova de Milfontes 18) Porto Covo 19) Zambujeira do Mar 20) Troia

Weekend trips and city breaks to Portugal in July

If you want a short break, or a weekend away, Portugal makes for a fantastic choice. Lisbon and Porto are Portugal's two largest cities, and these are popular for short trips. Each offers a vibrant atmosphere, with a huge variety of activities and fascinating sights. They are also within easy reach for many visitors, as each city has its own airport with regular flights to many destinations across Europe.

Porto is the better destination to visit in July. It will be less crowded than Lisbon, with the cooling waters of the Douro River helping to refresh the city.

With three days in Porto, you'll have ample time to explore the historic city centre, enjoy a boat cruise along the Douro River or even try port wine tasting. Day trips from Porto could include Guimarães or Braga.

Lisbon is an amazing city and is always popular during the summer months. During a three-day break in Lisbon, you could visit the Baixa, Alfama and Belem districts. You could also take a day trip to Sintra or spend time relaxing on one of the region's many beautiful beaches.

Another option for a short break, is the Algarve, but you will find that flights and accommodation are expensive if left to the last minute. The resort towns of Albufeira, Vilamoura and Praia da Rocha are ideal for a short dose of sun and holiday fun.

Very few visitors consider Faro as a weekend destination. However, it has a picturesque, historic centre to explore, with day trips to Loule, Olhão, or a visit to the beach at Praia de Faro on offer.

Porto

Porto sits on the Douro River and historically boats transported barrels of Port wine to be stored in the huge cellars that line the river

Sintra

Sintra just outside of Lisbon is the setting of the whimsical Palácio Nacional da Pena

Discover more of Portugal with our guides

  • Top 10 Portugal

top ten Portugal

Which are the best 10 towns and cities in Portugal?

1 week in Portugal

Suggested itineraries for a week holiday and tour of Portugal

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Discover the finest beaches in Portugal

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When is the best time of year to visit Portugal?

Lisbon portugal

The vibrant and dynamic capital of Portugal

Porto portugal

Historic districts and port wine tasting in Portugal’s second city

lagos portugal

History, beaches, and nightlife - Lagos is rightful popular!

tavira guide

The most charming town of the eastern Algarve

Braga portugal

The religious centre of Portugal and likeable city

sintra Portugal

Extravagant palaces, opulent villas, and stunning scenery

Sesimbra Portugal

Delightful beach town, which is a favourite with the Portuguese

Obidos Portugal

The classic Portuguese walled town, owned by the Queen of Portugal

V ila Nova de Milfontes

Vila Nova de Milfontes

Authentic Portugal on the undiscovered Alentejo coastline

Setubal Portugal

Experience true Portugal in this busy fishing port

Nazare Portugal

A charming town, famed for the world’s highest surfing waves

Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo portugal

The charismatic and undiscovered north of Portugal

Cascais Portugal

The finest resort town of the Lisbon coastline

Tomar Portugal

The ancient stronghold of the Knights Templar

Evora Portugal

The capital of the Alentejo region is steeped in history

Albufeira guide

The largest and liveliest resort town of the Algarve

Guimaraes Portugal

The birthplace of Portugal and pretty city

A complete list of all of our guides to Portugal

  • Tomar Introduction
  • Things to see in Tomar
  • Lisbon to Tomar
  • Obidos Introduction
  • Things to See in Obidos
  • Obidos day trip
  • Lisbon to Obidos
  • Evora Introduction
  • Evora Things to See
  • Day Trip to Evora
  • Lisbon to Evora
  • Capela dos Ossos
  • Evora or Sintra?
  • The Alentejo region
  • Fatima introduction
  • Lisbon to Fatima
  • Mafra Introduction
  • Lisbon to Mafra
  • Ericeira introduction
  • Lisbon to Ericeira
  • Ericeira beaches

Central Portugal

  • Alcobaça monastery
  • N2 road tour
  • São Martinho do Porto

Portugal Guides

  • Where to go in Portugal
  • 1 week in Portugal
  • A weekend in Portugal
  • When to visit?
  • Portugal's best beaches
  • Portugal airports
  • Portugal for families
  • Lisbon to Porto tour
  • Where to live in Portugal
  • Portugal in January
  • Portugal in February
  • Portugal in March
  • Portugal in June
  • Portugal in July
  • Portugal in August
  • Portugal in September
  • Portugal in November
  • Portugal in December
  • Portugal in the winter
  • Sintra introduction
  • Sights of Sintra
  • Day trip to Sintra
  • Lisbon to Sintra
  • Sintra beaches
  • Sintra tourist bus 434
  • Palacio da Pena
  • Palácio de Monserrate
  • Quinta da Regaleira
  • Parque da Pena
  • Castelo dos Mouros
  • Cascais introduction
  • Day trip to Cascais
  • Cascais beach guide
  • Cascais sights
  • Cabo da Roca
  • Lisbon to Cascais
  • Sesimbra intorduction
  • Sesimbra sights
  • Sesimbra's beaches
  • Lisbon to Sesimbra
  • Cabo Espichel
  • Setubal introduction
  • Setubal sights
  • Day trip to Setubal
  • Setubal's beaches

Serra da Arrabida

  • Peninsula de Troia

Near Lisbon

Costa da Caparica

  • Fonte da Telha
  • Lagoa de Albufeira
  • Praia das Macas

Lisbon Guides

  • Lisbon introduction
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  • Lisbon beach guide
  • 24 hours in Lisbon
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  • Costa da Caparica Portugal
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  • Cristo Rei Christ
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  • Ponte 25 de Abril
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  • Free Lisbon
  • Is Lisbon Walkable
  • Lisbon Budget
  • Driving in Lisbon
  • From the airport
  • To Cristo Rei
  • Lisbon to Porto
  • Lisbon tram guide
  • Lisbon Ferrys

Other Destinations

Albufeira Alvor Aveiro Braga Faro Guimarães Lagos Madeira Porto Praia da Luz Praia da Rocha Sagres Silves Tavira Vilamoura Viana do Castelo

Portugal in July; travel ideas for Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve in July © 2024 MyPortugalHoliday.com - Privacy Policy

uk

Stunning mountains and picturesque beaches south of Lisbon

Costa da Caparica Portugal

Lively resort town and 13km of golden sands

fatima portugal

Important pilgrimage site where Mary appeared to three shepherds

Batalha Portugal

Magnificent monastery and site of Portugal’s most important battle

Ericeira Portugal

Trendy surfing town set along a beautiful coastline

Peniche Portugal

Traditional fishing port surrounded by magnificent beaches

Elvas portugal

Heavily fortified town on the Spanish border

Troia Portugal

Paradise beaches and the secluded hideaway of millionaires

Berlengas islands

Wild and windswept islands, a refuge to seabirds and sea life

Estoril portugal

Sophisticated beach resort along the beautiful Lisbon coastline

The 11 best places to visit in Portugal

Regis St. Louis

Nov 17, 2023 • 7 min read

best cities to visit in portugal in july

From the viewpoints of Lisbon to the beaches of the Algarve, here are the best places to go in Portugal © Gabriel Mello / Getty Images

Lisbon and Porto may get a lot of love, but there's so much more to Portugal than its captivating historic cities.

From  golden beaches  and mountainous peaks to lush river valleys, every region has its own diverse highlights across this small Iberian nation.

Finding the best places to go here depends largely on your own interests. If you’re after sun-kissed beaches and aquatic adventures, head to the Algarve ; for historic architecture-filled towns with a rich, traditional dining scene , aim for Évora. Start planning your itinerary now with our 11 favorite places to visit in Portugal.

Best for nightlife

Seven iconic hills overlook  Lisbon 's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, white-domed cathedrals and grand civic squares – a captivating scene crafted over centuries.

The Portuguese capital is packed with things to do , from browsing galleries (including the Museu Nacional do Azulejo with its trove of ceramic tiles) and exploring castles (such as the hilltop  Castelo de São Jorge ) to satisfying your sweet tooth with the city's incredible  pastéis de nata  (custard tarts).

By night, Lisbon’s party people take over, filling old-school drinking dens, brassy jazz clubs and open-all-night clubs that burst into life once the sun goes down.

Planning tip: Lisbon has an emerging craft beer scene that you can experience at the city's breweries and bars .

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in Portugal

2. douro valley .

Best place to drink wine 

One of Portugal’s most beautiful areas lies just east of Porto. Here, the meandering Rio Douro flows past towering hillsides covered by the steeply terraced vineyards that make up Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. Whether you come by boat, train or car to the Douro Valley , you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views at every turn, especially as you near the lovely village of Pinhão in the heart of the region. 

Planning tip:  Many travelers dash in on a quick day trip, but to make the most of the region, spend the night at one of the vineyard-surrounded guesthouses in the area, such as Quinta Nova or the Casa Cimeira .

An aerial view of the medieval houses, wall and tower of Obidos, Portugal. The street is filled with crowds of people.

Best hilltop village

Wandering the tangle of ancient streets in the historic town of  Óbidos is enchanting at any time of year, but come during one of its festivals and you're in for a special treat. Whether you fancy the idea of a mock-up jousting match at a medieval fair or delving into the written word at Folio – Portugal's biggest international literature festival – you couldn’t ask for a better backdrop.

Best for a fantastical escape

Less than an hour by train from the capital Lisbon,  Sintra feels like another world. It's a great day trip away from the city hubbub. Like a setting from a fairy tale, this historic hillside township is sprinkled with stone-walled taverns and lorded over by a  multicolored palace .

Forested hillsides form the backdrop to this storybook setting, with imposing castles, mystical gardens, strange mansions and centuries-old monasteries hidden among the trees. The fog that sweeps in by night adds another layer of mystery.

Planning tip:  Chilly evenings are best spent by the fire in one of Sintra’s many charming B&Bs.

5. Setúbal Peninsula 

Best for wild, cliff-backed beaches

South of Lisbon, the Setúbal Peninsula has long been the weekend playground of Lisboetas (Lisbon residents). A ferry ride, followed by a short bus or bicycle ride, takes you to the Costa da Caparica, a seemingly endless beachfront that gets wilder and less crowded the further south you go. If you want a surf lesson, some downtime on the sands, or a meal overlooking the lapping waves, this is the place to come. 

If you’re seeking a bit more solitude, head down to the Parque Natural da Arrábida at the southern end of the peninsula. Here, you'll find cliffs covered with thick vegetation, picturesque coves and beaches such as Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, with fine sand, azure waters, and the ruins of an ancient site that dates back to Roman times. 

Street view of the Historic Centre of Evora, Portugal. The street is narrow and lined by stalls, selling their wares outside.

Best for historical architecture 

The heart of the Alentejo region, Évora is one of Portugal’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns, and it's an enchanting place to spend a couple of days. Inside the 14th-century walls, narrow, winding lanes lead to striking monuments, including an elaborate medieval cathedral, Roman ruins and a picturesque town square.

But this isn't a musty museum piece – Évora is also a lively university town, and its many restaurants serve up some excellent, hearty Alentejan cuisine.

Best for urban exploring 

It would be hard to dream up a more romantic city than  Porto . Portugal’s second-largest urban center is laced with narrow pedestrian lanes, baroque churches and cafe-dotted plazas, leading the eye down to the Douro River and its landmark bridges. Needless to say, there's no shortage of  great experiences here . Start in the  Ribeira district – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – then cross the bridge to explore centuries-old port wineries in  Vila Nova de Gaia , where you can sip the world’s best port. 

You can also learn about Porto’s history (both the drink and the city) and other facets of Portuguese identity at the World of Wine , a sprawling complex of museums, restaurants and bars overlooking the city. Though Porto is defined by its air of dignified history, modern architecture, cosmopolitan dining, vibrant nightlife and artistic activity are injecting new life into the city.

8. The Minho 

Best for traditional villages and wilderness trails 

The Portuguese have a special fondness for the Minho , a verdant region of vineyard-covered valleys, mountainous wilds, isolated beaches and picturesque river towns that seem little changed by time. The gateway to the region is Braga , a city with Roman ruins, a fabled medieval cathedral , and tranquil flower-trimmed plazas sprinkled with outdoor cafes and restaurants. 

Further north, you’ll find Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês , a vast, rugged wilderness of dramatic peaks, meandering streams and frozen-in-time stone villages. Dozens of hiking trails crisscross the reserve, taking walkers past old Roman roads, castle ruins or sparkling waterfalls.

Planning tip:  If you're here in summer, cool down in the idyllic swimming holes – these are among the best places to be in Portugal during the hot weather.

Tourist woman enjoying a traditional meal and drinks in an outdoor terrace on a little street of Coimbra in Portugal,

Best for a student vibe

Portugal’s most atmospheric college town,  Coimbra , rises steeply from the Rio Mondego, and its handsome medieval quarter houses one of Europe’s oldest universities. Students roam the narrow streets clad in black capes, while the sound of fado (Portugal’s soulful traditional style of music) drifts through the Moorish town gates towards the stained-glass windows of the historic  Café Santa Cruz .

Planning tip:  Grown-ups may well appreciate the town’s student-driven nightlife and the medieval lanes of the steeply stacked historic center. Visitors with younger kids can keep busy at Portugal dos Pequenitos , a theme park with miniature versions of Portuguese monuments.

10. Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela 

Best for hiking and alpine activities in winter

The Serra da Estrela – Portugal’s  highest mountain range – is the place to come for rugged scenery, outdoor adventures, and glimpses of a vanishing traditional way of life. Hikers can choose from an expansive network of high-country trails with stupendous vistas, and the region's fascinating mountain villages make perfect bases for outdoor adventures.

At the country’s highest point – the summit of Torre, artificially pushed to 2000m (6561ft) by the addition of a not-so-subtle stone monument – you can slalom down Portugal’s only ski slope. Oh, and did we mention the furry sheepdog puppies that frolic by the roadside? You’ll long to take one home.

A young girl gazes down from a cliff towards a sandy beach filled with people and families enjoying the coastline

11. The Algarve

Best for a relaxing family holiday

Sunseekers have much to celebrate in Portugal. Along the south coast, the Algarve is famed for its gorgeous and varied coastline – you can either join the crowds on the people-packed sands at major resorts or find seaside peace on dramatic wild beaches backed by wind-carved cliffs. Days are spent playing in the waves, taking long oceanfront strolls, or surfing some of Europe's most memorable breaks. 

The Algarve is also one of the best places in Portugal for kids . You’ll find family-friendly beaches, water parks and plenty of outdoor adventures (from boating to hidden sea caves to exploring undeveloped islands).

Planning tip:  There’s never a bad time to visit this region, with its 300 days of sunshine each year, though you’ll find the best prices and thinnest crowds in winter. 

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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The Cavado River in the Peneda-Gerês national park, in northern Portugal.

10 of the best places to visit in Portugal, chosen by readers

With Portugal announced as the only major destination on the green list on Friday, our tipsters choose their favourite natural parks, towns, beaches and seafood restaurants

Winning tip: Walk to Spain on a Roman road

If you want something out of the ordinary with fantastic scenery and fascinating history, then go to Terras de Bouro in the far north of the country. This town is well worth a visit because it offers the chance to walk along a Roman road complete with original milestones. The Via Geira was built to link Braga with Astorga, now in Spain. It is signposted within Terras de Bouro. The trail winds through woodland and round mountains with spectacular views, waterfalls and, of course, the milestones. It goes through the Peneda-Gerês national park to Portela de Homem on the Spanish border. It’s magical – . Margaret Ainsbury

Perfect islands and seafood east of Faro

Olhao town square, Algarve, PortugalJ0C26G Igreja Matriz parish church at night, Olhao, Algarve, Portugal

Olhão on the eastern Algarve is a real fishing town that’s only just properly warming up to tourism. The town is a mashup of old tiled cottages and backstreet restaurants with a fishermens’ chapel displaying votive offerings of plastic prosthetic legs and breasts. There’s no town beach, but a ferry takes you to the glorious islands of the Ria Formosa national park, where deserted beaches and the best ever seafood awaits. The efficient train service will take you to the border town of Vila Real de Santo António going east or Faro to the west, should you feel the need to explore. Andrej Znak

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Aerial spectacular, Algarve

Cabo de São Vicente near Sagres, Algarve, Portugal

The dramatic landscapes and pristine beaches of the Sagres peninsula, at the western tip of the Algarve, are a draw throughout the year. The highlight in October is the Sagres Birdwatching Festival , which coincides with autumn migration as birds head to Africa. Nature lovers from many nations descend on the peninsula keen to witness the vast number of species passing through, including vultures and eagles. They can also explore the geology and diverse flora of the coast and may spot dolphins and whales. They leave having socialised, eaten fabulous food, made new friends, shared experiences, and been inspired. An experience not to miss. Jennifer Jones

Alt Algarve

Alte village on the south of Portugal.

Nestled away in the hills of Serra do Caldeirão, 13 miles inland from Albufeira on the Algarve coast, lies the beautiful and unspoilt village of Alte . Here, a tiny haven of meandering streets lined with whitewashed houses and laced chimneys ooze the aromas of traditional Portuguese food. At the heart of the village lies tranquillity. Two springs form pools of crystal-clear spring water for families to bathe in and picnic around, amid a glorious backdrop of trees. Alte’s pièce de résistance is its waterfall, Vigário, which cascades into a serene and inviting pool. An exquisite site of natural beauty. Julia Husband

Huge waves – and doughnuts – south of Lisbon

Wooden staircase down to Gale beach, Comporta.

Three years ago, recently separated and in need of adventure, I took my two young sons to Comporta for a week, a 90-minute drive south of Lisbon. Laid-back, boho, with glorious sandy beaches, it was the best holiday we’d ever had. Lazy mornings in the infinity pool, afternoons at the beach in Carvalhal eating huge doughnuts and jumping huge waves. Stopping at Ti Glória on the way home to pick up the most delicious roast chicken, chips, grilled prawns, rice and pickled veg – and only €7 for a huge takeaway tray. Everything felt easy about this holiday: parking at the beach, friendly people, beautiful landscapes … go before it becomes Ibiza! Polly Dorner

Across the Tagus to Ponto Final

Restaurante Ponto Final, Calcinhas Lisbon Portugal

If you’re in Lisbon , don’t miss the chance to visit the south bank of the River Tagus and enjoy a meal from the terrace views at the restaurant Ponto Final of Lisbon’s red-tiled rooftops and the 25 de Abril Bridge. Take the enjoyable ferry from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré (every 10 minutes, weekend every 20 minutes) to the other side of the river Tagus: Cacilhas, then walk along the riverbank for 10 minutes. Our family sampled olives, fresh cheese from the Alentejo as starters, then sea food salad, a huge octopus soup, then custard tarts, washing it down with a few tasty glasses of Ponto Final’s house wine for €30 a head last spring. Bill

Cycle south from Porto

A woman cycles on a cycle-path at Espinho in Portugal.

Renting a bike in Porto is the ideal way to explore outside the historic core. Matosinhos offers beaches, a fortress and a parade of exceptional restaurants along Rua de Herois de França, where you can rest in the sun watching freshly caught fish sizzle on outdoor grills. Glide along tram tracks, then head south and pop your bike on to the Flor de Gás ferry across the River Douro. From the river mouth there is a succession of golden-sand beaches and a dedicated cycleway for 10 miles to Espinho . The open skies and Atlantic waves provide a wonderful contrast to Porto’s bustling centre. Mary

Strolling in the Alto Alentejo

Marvao village, Alentejo, Portugal

Discover the Alto Alentejo and the tiny São Mamede natural park, 110 miles east of Lisbon. The park is just 25 miles long, so is easily explored in a few days, but it’s better to take a week. Stay a few nights in Marvão , one of Portugal’s highest inhabited villages with views across to Spain, and on clear days all the way to the Serra da Estrela. Walk from Marvão to Castelo de Vide, another castle fortification village, passing through vineyards and cork and holm oak forests. Castelo de Vide has a tiny artisan brewery and many great restaurants with huge portioned meals and delicious local wine. Sarah Lawson

Camping in the north, by the River Minho

A couple of years ago, we visited a less-well-known part of Portugal close to the northern border with Spain, with campervan and bikes, and found it terrific. From the Termas de Melgaço campsite , we walked four miles to Melgaço town on a trail along the banks of the River Minho. In Melgaço we had lunch at the family-run Adega Sabino . A soak in the ornate mineral baths adjacent to the campsite was perfect after a day exploring. Next day we visited Monção, 16 miles to the west, where we cycled along a former railway line, now the Ecopista Minho , and took a dip in the river before driving 25 miles south-west to our next campsite at Covas. This proved a great base for hiking and wild swimming. The evening meal at the campsite cafe was served with what the campsite owner called the “Pope of vinho verde”, the local Alvarinho wine. Elgan Lloyd

City of water, south of Porto

Striped candy-colour hoses in Aveiro, Portugal.

After 10 wonderful days spent exploring the hidden towns and vineyards along the Douro Valley, my friends and I pulled up in picturesque Aveiro , set on canals about 44 miles south of Porto. With so much water and plenty of boat traffic, the town reminded me of Nyhavn in Copenhagen. We gorged ourselves on delectable arroz de marisco served up in traditional pots at Restaurante Ferro . But visitors should also make time to stop off at Praia da Costa Nova, six miles to the west on the Atlantic coast. The striped houses are like candy, and there is something quietly appealing about the ordinariness of the seafront. Mini-golf and cornettos all round. Bekki Field

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Portugal Weather in July: Travel Tips for First-Timers

  • Portugal Weather in July: Travel Tips for First-Timers

July's weather in Portugal is very sunny and warm or hot most days except at higher elevations. It is arid with almost no rain, except in the mountains and the region around Porto. The dry weather is good for hiking in nature, touring, sightseeing, outdoor activities, beach going, and watersports.

Read on for our weather information and travel advice including average temperatures and rainfall, places to go, and travel tips…

Portugal Weather in July: Overview

  • Temperature range: 18–27°C (64–80°F)
  • Rainfall: 1 cm (0 inches)
  • Rainy days: 1
  • Humidity: 68%
  • Sunshine hours/day: 11 hours

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July Climate Comparison (Averages) for Portugal's Top Tourism Areas

Portugal turns hot in July. There are 11 hours of sunshine in most of the tourist highlights, so you will usually feel warm or hot during the day. It's a good time to be outdoors for extended hikes, beach basking, other outdoor activities, and touring Portugal's urban and historical attractions.

Northern Portugal: The region has an Atlantic oceanic climate. There is more rain and warm temperatures. Daily highs reach a warm 25°C (77°F) with 10 hours of sunshine. The area south of Porto has good surfing conditions.

Central and southern Portugal: The Algarve and the Alentejo region experience Mediterranean summer weather, and Lisbon is almost as hot as the Algarve. These regions are sunnier, hotter, and drier with good weather for hiking, sightseeing, and touring.

Madeira: See below.

Azores: See below.

The Best Places to Visit in Portugal in July

Portugal is one of the sunniest places in Europe, and in July, it is almost as sunny as Greece, except that Madeira is cloudier. You will have sunshine and hot, dry weather at most of the highlights.

If you would like to visit the recommended places in Portugal below (or anywhere else) your way, it is worth knowing that Global Highlights customized trips are  highly-rated on Trust Pilot . Let us know your travel goals and we'll make the best of the weather and local tourism resources. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry.

1. Lisbon — Enjoy the Outdoors, Hiking, Beaches, and Watersports

Lisbon receives 12 hours of bright sunshine a day and only 2 days of scant rain in July. There is 63% humidity that makes the average 28°C (82°F) daily highs feel like about 30°C (86°F), and it feels hotter under the sun if there is no breeze. This is great weather for being outdoors.

The dry weather is excellent for beach going, watersports and outdoors activities in the area. The closest good beaches such as Praia de Carcavelos are about 25 minutes away by road, and they are crowded in July. Carcavelos is a surfing beach.

There are fewer people at the very beautiful beaches of Arrabida Natural Park that is about 40 minutes away, and it is also an excellent area to hike in and just chill and rest at a hotel. The water temperature is about 19°C (66°F) and feels chilly.

2. Madeira and Porto Santo — Enjoy the Beaches and See the Dolphins

In July, Madeira and Porto Santo start their warm dry season and experience the least rainfall and highest temperatures of the year. For beach going, watersports, and being outdoors, it is one of the best months, and this is why it is also peak tourism season there.

In July, the highs are 25°C (77°F), and there are 8 hours of sunshine. The 73% humidity makes it feel like 26°C (79°F). The sea temperature is about 22°C (72°F). The sea might feel chilly, but many people find it comfortable. It is peak tourism season.

Whale and dolphin watching is one of the most popular tourist activities, and July is one of the better months for whale watching. It is a month when the most species of dolphins play in the shallow waters close to shore. It takes 2 hours to fly from Lisbon to Funchal.

For more about Funchal , see visiting Portugal in May .

3. Sao Miguel — Enjoy Adventure amid Natural Wonders

Sao Miguel is the largest of the Azores , and the international airport on it is used by most tourists to visit the islands. Many people consider the weather in the Azores to be perfect in July with almost 8 hours of sunshine, clear skies, and about 14 hours of daylight.

The islands are about the warmest in July with high temperatures of about 24°C (76°F) and gentle nighttime lows of 18°C (65°F). The water temperature is almost at its warmest at 22°C (72°F). It is a great time for hitting the black sand beaches and watersports.

Great things to do including kayaking in the beautiful and volcanic geological wonder of the Sete Cidades Crater Lakes or bathing in reddish hot springs at Furnas. You could take a ferry to Pico Island and hike in beautiful Pico National Park to the 5 km (3 mile) long lava tube.

4.Algarve — Have Fun in the Hot Summer

Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal, and it gets hot in July. The average daily highs reach 29°C (84°F), and with the 61% humidity, the average feels like 31°C (88°F). You could bask on the beaches with 12 hours of bright sunshine since skies are usually clear.

There are outdoor activities to enjoy every day, since it only rains a little about once a month. The water is warm enough at 20°C (68°F) for swimming, but for many people, it is too chilly. You can surf with a wetsuit, and the conditions are right for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Another fun thing to do is hike in Ria Formosa Natural Park or somewhere along the hiking trail Via Algarviana that follows the coastline. The luxury tourist town of Vilamoura has dozens of bike paths to sightsee along. Albufeira, Tavira, and Lagos are other good places to stay for cycling excursions.

  • For more about Lagos , see visiting Portugal in May .
  • For more about Vilamoura , see visiting Portugal in February .
  • For more about Albufeira , see visiting Portugal in March .

Peak Tourism Season: Touring Advice for July

In July, the start of peak summer tourism season features good weather for lazy hot beach days. You can find uncrowded beaches if sufficiently far from the big cities and popular tourist towns. There are big crowds in the cities since it is peak season and schools are on vacation.

Flight prices and room rates soar to be even two or three times higher than in low season. So book well in advance if you are wanting to go to a major highlight.

We're here to take the stress out of booking the trip you want. Let us know your interests and requirements  and we'll take care of everything.

Expect crowds at the favorite beaches since the sea temperature at most of the popular beaches is 22°C (72°F) in July including the Azores and Madeira.

Exposed to 14 and a half hours of daylight and 11 hours of sunshine daily, the Portuguese go out of the sweltering urban areas for fun too. You might want to go to cooler countryside mountainous areas such as the Coimbra region. For more about Coimbra, see visiting Portugal in August .

Heatstroke: When exerting yourself under the hot sun and hot temperatures, drink a lot of water to prevent heatstroke.

There are no public holidays in Portugal in July.

What to Wear in July

Bring summer and beach clothes. Generally when out in the sun, cover up with thin breathable clothing to be comfortable and protected from sunburn. Keep a jacket for cold nights. If you are going to the north or the mountains take raingear or an umbrella.

Shoes: Sturdy shoes with good traction help you hike trails and walk on the smooth cobblestone streets in historical areas.

UV protection: With so much sunshine in Portugal, you could protect yourself with a sunhat, long sleeves, and long trousers or dresses, or use suncream. Polarized glasses would help to protect your eyes from glare.

Touring Portugal in July with Global Highlights

Our experts create customized private trips around the globe. We would tailor a great experience for you in Portugal, realizing your travel goals and making the best of the weather and local tourism resources. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry.

For sample Global Highlights itineraries in the region that could be customized to include Portugal, see our Morocco tours .

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Portugal

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Next month: Portugal in August

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal — From Fairy-tale Castles to Charming Beach Towns

Take your pick of hilltop castles, sunny beaches, and time-worn villages.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

best cities to visit in portugal in july

Roberto Moiola/Sysaworld/Getty Images

France and Spain have long taken center stage, with Portugal as a less-visited destination for in-the-know travelers. The tides are slowly turning and the small Iberian nation is, at long last, enjoying its well-deserved moment in the sun. The drawback to this increased attention? More tourists. Though it’s not like contending with a few crowds is going to put anyone off seeing Pena Palace or Jerónimos Monastery. And, of course, there are countless beautiful places to visit in Portugal, from the Azores and Madeira to the sun-splashed Algarve and even popular cities like Lisbon and Porto . This is to say that despite its relatively diminutive size, Portugal offers a treasure trove of natural, historical, and cultural wonders.

Cabo da Roca

Stefano Briccola/EyeEm/Getty Images

The westernmost point in continental Europe, Cabo da Roca exudes a wild, edge-of-the-Earth mystique. Waves crash against the rocks, tourists standing atop sheer cliffs stare out at nothing but blue to the horizon, and a historic lighthouse guides boats sailing along the rugged coast. 

Lagoa das Sete Cidades

dangrytsku/Getty Images

The majesty of São Miguel never ceases to amaze. Topping the list for many travelers visiting the volcanic main island in the Azores archipelago are the famous and impossibly photogenic twin crater lakes, Lagoa Azul ("blue lagoon") and Lagoa Verde ("green lagoon"). 

Pena Palace

chechele/Getty Images

One of the most beautiful places in Europe , Pena Palace is a hilltop Romanticist castle and the crown jewel of Sintra. Its candy-colored facade and sweeping terraces draw shutter-happy tourists from near and far. The stately interiors are filled with antiques, while the surrounding park provides tree-shaded pathways.

Levadas da Madeira

Simon Dannhauer/Getty Images

The Levadas da Madeira is a system of historic irrigation canals built across the island to carry water from the high-altitude slopes to sugar cane fields, farmlands, and cities. Hiking trails that run along the waterways give travelers a close-up look at the UNESCO-listed laurel forests.

Jerónimos Monastery

LUke1138/Getty Images

One of the most-visited landmarks in Lisbon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the late Gothic Manueline-style Jerónimos Monastery stands tall as an enduring symbol of power dating back to the Age of Discovery. The block-long complex continues to impress with its magnificent maritime details, cloisters, and tombs.

Algar de Benagil

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This fantastical seaside cave that’s reachable by boat doesn’t even look real. Sun beams in through the hole on the top, bathing the enclosed beach in light, and turquoise waters lap the sand. 

Clérigos Church

mtcurado/Getty Images

Clérigos Church is a must-see on any trip to Porto . While the artifacts and organ concerts certainly wow, both are overshadowed by the iconic 75-meter-tall bell tower, which visitors can climb for 360-degree views of the city (and a serious workout).

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Nazaré lures fearless surfers and attracts many curious tourists thanks to the larger-than-life swells that were the subject of the documentary “100 Foot Wave.” The huge breaks mean you’re likely not going to paddle out, but it’s worth the drive to see the enormous waves crash into the rocks and grab lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Vila Franca Islet

aroxopt/Getty Images

Located off the coast of São Miguel , the Vila Franca Islet looks otherworldly from above and just as pretty up close. The circular saltwater lagoon, which was formed by the crater of an ancient volcano, is ringed by lush vegetation. In the summer, it’s popular for swimming, snorkeling, birdwatching, and cliff diving (if you dare). 

LuisPinaPhotogrpahy/Getty Images

Situated about an hour from Lisbon, Comporta is a low-key fishing village turned in-the-know summer hotspot with cork trees, rice fields, and blissful beaches. During the warmer months, it’s well worth vying for a spot on the brilliant white sand of Praia Comporta.

Douro Valley

Colors Hunter - Chasseur de Couleurs/Getty Images

The oldest demarcated wine region in the world and the birthplace of port, Douro Valley wows viticulture enthusiasts and casual sippers. A mix of rolling vineyards, historic quintas, boat rides along its namesake river, and excellent restaurants means there’s plenty to appreciate besides incredible pours. 

Peneda-Gerês National Park

Denis Kabanov/Getty Images

Set in northern Portugal near the Spanish border, Peneda-Gerês National Park spans yellow-tinged hills, granite peaks, high-flowing streams, mixed forests, and Roman relics. Native wildlife — including the Pyrenean desman, Iberian frog, and Barrosã cattle — also call this protected land home. 

Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools

JoanaCarvalho

The north coast of Madeira brims with beautiful spots to take a dip, none more iconic than Cachalote Natural Swimming Pools . The Mother Nature-made lagoons off the shore of Porto Moniz were formed by volcanic rocks and filled with the tides of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Poço da Alagoinha

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Majestic waterfalls are one of the many enticements of the Azores. Poço da Alagoinha on the island of Flores is a stunning example with multiple cascades that gush from lush, vegetation-covered cliffs down to a pristine lagoon. 

Parque Natural da Arrábida

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Parque Natural da Arrábida shows off many of Portugal’s best assets. Fine sand beaches fade into blue waters, towering cliffs rise from the sea, verdant vegetation covers the mountain peaks, and scenic hiking trails wind through the spellbinding scenery. 

Azenhas do Mar

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Of all the charming coastal towns in Portugal, Azenhas do Mar deserves special mention. Small in size, with just 800 inhabitants, whitewashed houses, and commanding sea views, it’s a postcard-worthy setting to sip local wine, savor regional seafood dishes, and swim in the natural rock pool. 

Castelo de Guimarães

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Mystery and legend still swirl around Castelo de Guimarães. A major presence in Portuguese history, the castle was built under the orders of Mumadona Dias in the 10th century to serve as a place of refuge from and protection against attacks perpetrated by Vikings and Moors. 

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Sagres sits on a windswept headland at the western tip of southern Portugal. Sunny skies, dramatic sea cliffs, and uncrowded beaches make this tiny fishing village deserving of a detour. It’s also a surfer’s paradise that provides plenty of both beginner-friendly breaks and expert-level barrels.

Quinta do Barbusano

Tucked away in the mountains on the north side of Madeira, Quinta do Barbusano invites visitors to savor the flavors of the island with wine tastings and traditional espetada (beef skewer) meals overlooking the São Vicente Valley. It’s also possible to do a short hike to nearby Nossa Senhora Fátima Chapel for even more breathtaking vistas.

Livraria Lello

SOPA Images/Contributor/Getty Images

Livraria Lello shows off opulent staircases, an ornate stained-glass ceiling, and towering shelves packed with tomes. Harry Potter fans might notice a connection between the magical interiors of the historic bookstore and some Hogwarts scenes. It’s widely known that J.K. Rowling frequented the shop during her time in Porto.

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Portugal in July: Open For All

Young woman tourist in Lisbon city center in Portugal

  • ~ mins read

Whatever your mojo, you will find it during your trip to Portugal in July. In June, summer in Portugal kicks off with a sizzling start, ushering in the vibrant season and its sunny delights. And as the mercury rises, so does the level of fun. The North Atlantic Ocean starts heating up in July, heralding the season of swimming and watersports, while Alentejo and the Algarve beckon holidaymakers to relax on their sandy beaches.

Art and culture enthusiasts can hop around gorgeous summer festivals that deal with everything from food to folk culture and from music to tall ship races. Hikers pining for peace have the option of heading for the quieter backcountry and wandering in thickly forested Peneda-Gerês, away from crowds and in the embrace of nature. Irrespective of your preferred holiday style, you will be impressed with the options available in Portugal in July.

  • Mckayla Williamson

Portugal Weather in July

Cityscape of Porto

July is not just the hottest month of the year but also the driest and the sunniest. Average temperatures in the country shoot up to as high as 28°C during the daytime, while rainfall is scant (no more than 4mm). Torrid heat and glaring sunshine could make sightseeing trips a bit daunting in the inland region, but there are always coastal cities and towns where the weather is much more clement, thanks to cool and bracing sea breezes. Lisbon scores a daily high of 28°C during the daytime and 18°C during the night. But sometimes, the mercury shows no mercy, soaring up to 35°C during the peak summer heatwave.

Porto’s temperatures are a couple of notches cooler than that of Lisbon during this month, with daily highs hovering at around 25°C and lows at 16°C, with a few instances of rainfall during the month. Algarve clocks a daily average of 27°C, with the hottest time of day easily touching 33°C. After 13 hours of sunshine, evenings usher in some relief with temperatures dipping to 19°C. 

To know how Portugal fares the rest of the year, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Portugal .

Weather in Portugal in July - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit portugal in july.

Beautiful beach in Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal

With Europe breaking for its annual vacation in July, Portugal's beaches, streets, and sightseeing spots are inundated with tourists. Rates skyrocket as the summer high season kicks off and outdoor activities become more taxing as the heat intensifies. But then why visit Portugal in July ? Well, take a look at the points below for more details.

  • Visit anywhere: The whole of Portugal is practically open in July. And the high tourist season of summer means transport, accommodation, and activities are at their best. Book your accommodation and services a little ahead to confirm your reservation.
  • Summer celebrations: July is when the annual festivals of Portugal reach their crescendo. Fill up your balmy evenings in Lisbon with a free orchestra or a ballet show at Festival ao Largo in Teatro Nacional São Carlos. If you are in Porto, you might want to attend Festival Internacional de Folclore. This colorful event showcases the country's diverse culture, folk music, dances, and traditional costumes. 
  • Beach time: When it comes to Portugal in July, you have a choice of 350+ Blue Flag beaches (according to 2019) to swim, dive, play, or just lounge around. Take a trip to the Algarve and enjoy its gorgeous and awe-inspiring beaches. But if you feel they are overcrowded, check out quieter but equally scenic options while visiting Alentejo , like Praia do Malhão or Praia da Costa de Santo André. Head for Praia da Baleia in Ericeira if you like surfing. For watersports, you might want to visit Praia do Ancão in Faro.
  • Lively nightlife: Lisbon is famous for its wild party scenes. After a sweltering day under the sun, unwind at one of the city’s rooftop bars or legendary clubs on Pink Street. Dance the night away at a disco or mosh with some rock music, attend a reggae concert and watch pole dancing by Monica at Viking.
  • Music festivals: Portugal in July is a mecca for music lovers as three of the country’s best and biggest music festivals take place this month. NOS Alive, which takes place in Lisbon’s Oeiras, has been headlined by artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish. Rock and metal fans should definitely check out Super Bock Super Rock in Meco Beach in Sesimbra. Similarly, MEO Marés Vivas, held near Porto, dabbles in multiple musical genres making it a fun space for music lovers of all kinds.

Where to go and what to do

Grilled sardines with salad and olive oil on white dish stock

A curious mix of history and natural landscapes, scenic beaches, and thrilling activities, Portugal is a paradise for a stylish summer vacation in July. Foodies will have a toothsome experience as July is the sardine season in the country. From the capital city to small towns, you can taste some delicious and juicy grilled sardines during this time of year. Call for a glass of chilled and crisp white wine and hog a seat on a sunny patio to enjoy a traditional sardine spread at this time of year.

Portugal might be a bit pricey in July. However, compared to other exotic summer destinations, it is on the cheaper end. Check out our travel guides on  how many days to spend in Portugal  if you are looking for ideas for your Portuguese tour. A  10-day trip  would of the ideal length to explore all the highlights that you should not miss out on. If you are strapped for time, a  7-day trip  would give you a good glimpse of the country, though not as extensive. Beat the swelling crowd and scorching temperatures in Portugal in July with the help of our local travel experts,  who will help you design a custom trip to Portugal based on your requirements. 

So, start planning your trip to Portugal in July right away!

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8 best cities and towns in Portugal to visit on your next holiday

From the capital of lisbon to lesser-known historical location amarante, these spots should go straight to the top of your must-visit list, article bookmarked.

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Places to stay include coastal locations like Cascais

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Planning a trip to Portugal ? This westernmost European country is just 350 miles long and has a width of 130 miles, so there’s an opportunity to explore more than one of its popular highlights while on holiday .

With a reasonably mild climate throughout all four seasons, it has year-round travel appeal and offers a diverse mixture of cultural sights, rugged mountains, dramatic coastline and compact, attractive cities.

The capital of Lisbon is a well-known travel favourite, thanks to its cobbled streets, intricate tilework and colourful buildings, while slightly smaller second city Porto has gained global fans in recent years too with its handsome architecture and port cellars. Meanwhile, the Algarve glitters with golden sands and peacock-blue waters for those hankering after a beach break.

Plus there is plenty of terrain for cyclists to explore on two wheels, ranging from gentle to seriously sweat-inducing.

From picture-postcard settings and historic landmarks to places with a vibrant nightlife, we’ve rounded up the best cities and towns to visit in Portugal.

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Portugal’s capital city is famous for historic and modern landmarks

The capital of Portugal is a vibrant city with an eclectic mix of colourful and whitewashed buildings. There are hilly, cobbled streets to explore, and cultural landmarks include Lisbon Cathedral and Sao Jorge Castle. Meanwhile, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is among its more modern highlights, and you can explore the city by tram. Seafood is a big part of the local cuisine, which you can sample at the Time Out Market, among other places. This city in west Portugal boasts a buzzing nightlife too, with plenty of rooftop bars for sipping a white port and tonic while enjoying the view.

Where to stay

Tivoli Oriente Lisboa Hotel is a four-star hotel with a swimming pool, view of the Tagus River and rooftop cocktail bar overlooking the city.

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The second largest city after Lisbon, Porto is a Unesco World Heritage Site

Northwest holiday spot Porto is the country’s second biggest city after Lisbon and known for its port wine. A Unesco World Heritage site, you can get a great view of this city by taking a Gaia Cable ride. Alternatively, it’s a 30-minute climb to the top of Clerigos Tower, which looks out onto the pretty old town and Douro River. You’ll spot beautiful Azulejos tiles throughout the city, as well as baroque architecture. There’s also Porto football stadium for sports fans, theatre shows at the Oporto Coliseum and several festivals throughout the year.

Four-star hotel Acta The Avenue has modern decor and a roof terrace, and is in a central location near to Campanha Train Station.

The Roman Temple of Diana is found in Evora

The walled city of Evora is in southern Portugal’s Alentejo region and is home to the Roman Temple of Diana and the Chapel of Bones. Visitors can take the short climb to the top of Evora Cathedral, which is the largest one with medieval origins in Portugal. Centrally positioned Giraldo Square dates back to the 13th century and is the ideal spot for people watching. Finally, for an afternoon of shopping, head to Rua Cinco de Outubro.

Only 600m from the Chapel of Bones is Vitoria Stone Hotel , a chic property complete with outdoor pool, sauna and gym.

This central Portugese city has the oldest university in the country

Central Portuguese city Coimbra is on the banks of the Mondego River and has the oldest university in Portugal, complete with 17th-century bell tower. Historic tourist attractions include the Chapel of Sao Miguel and Monastery of Santa Cruz, where the first King of Portugal’s tomb is found. Plus, you can see works of art dating back to the 16th century at the baroque Joanine Library. Outdoor sights include Coimbra Botanical Garden and Aqueduct.

Hotel Mondego is a four-star hotel in Coimbra with modern interiors, a terrace and a bar.

The seaside fishing town is popular for swimming and water sports

Coastal fishing town Cascais has a marina, Museum Quarter and even a rock-climbing area called Mexelhoeiro. You’ll find beaches Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa along Cascais’ stretch of sandy coastline, popular for swimming and sunbathing, while boat tours and water sports are available too. Souvenir browsing can be done at Villa Shopping mall, and foodies can indulge in fresh seafood such as lobster and octopus.

Beachfront hotel Vila Gale Cascais is close to the town centre and has two outdoor pools, a restaurant and two bars for sipping sundowners.

Renaissance and medieval buildings look out onto the Tamega River

This scenic northern Portugese town is 50km from Porto and combines architecture from different eras, boasting renaissance, medieval and Romanesque buildings. It looks out onto the Tamega River, and here you’ll see the 16th-century church of St. Goncalo, plus a striking arched bridge by the same name and the Museum of Amadeo de Sousa-Cardoso.

Amarante-Quinta D’Manuel Maria Villa has a garden, outdoor fireplace, terrace area and private entrance.

This resort town is close to Marinha and Vale Covo beaches

Algarve resort town Carvoiero has a gorgeous bay area, with the golden sands of Marinha and Vale Covo beaches positioned nearby too. It’s set among sandstone cliffs and is known for its whitewashed coastal houses. The town is an ideal place for water sports, with available activities including kayaking, canoeing, surfing and paddle boarding, plus there are boat tours to book too. If you’re looking for buzzing nightlife, lively town Praia da Rocha is less than half an hour away by car.

Deluxe five-star hotel Tivoli Carvoeiro has a sea view overlooking Vale Covo beach and features an outdoor pool.

Obidos Castle is located in a picturesque setting

Obidos’s walled town has its own castle, open to the public. Just 15 minutes’ drive away is Bacalhoa Buddha Eden, the largest oriental garden in Europe, which features several terracotta statues. If you’re planning a beach trip, Obidos Lagoon stretches for 5km along to Caldas da Rainha, and offers clear water and white sand.

The Literary Man Obidos Hotel is a historic literary venue which used to be a convent, complete with themed menus at the gin bar, restaurant and lounge.

Read more of our best Portugal hotel reviews .

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Best Cities and Regions to Visit in Portugal

Portugal is cheaper than Spain and has a very, very different culture. There's no flamenco, there's fado instead. They don't have sherry, they have port. They don't (really) do tapas, they do humongous plates of fish or meat accompanied with boiled potatoes and veg. 

But where should you go in Portugal ? Below you will find the best cities and regions to visit in Portugal, including Lisbon, with its fado music and its medieval Alfama district , and Porto, with its world-famous port wine.

Portugal is a relatively small country and much of it is rural. As a result, it doesn't have many sprawling metropolises for you to visit. After Lisbon and Porto (and, to a degree, Coimbra), the appeal of visiting Portugal is its beaches and countryside, particularly the wine regions of the Douro and Alentejo

Lisbon is Portugal's largest city and the most popular destination for visitors, and with good reason. You can sample most of Portugal's best offerings including fado music and Portugal's famous wines (including port).

Lisbon has all the modern conveniences you'd expect of a city, as well as the old charm of the twisty alleyways of the centuries-old Alfama district.

Take the night train from Madrid to Lisbon  (perhaps with a stop in Salamanca).

Porto is home to port wine! Walk along the Ribeira, the pedestrian walkway along Douro River for beautiful views of the port cellars across the river or cross the bridge and do some port tasting while admiring the view of the city and its old buildings.

Porto is also a good place to base yourself for visiting the Douro valley.

Porto is easily accessible from Galicia. Though you'll need to change trains in Vigo, you can go from Santiago de Compostela to Porto in a morning. 

Coimbra is famous for its own brand of fado music (aptly known as Coimbra fado). If you visit while the university is in session, you may see students adorned in their traditional black capes and robes.

Coimbra is not a very large city and so is easily explored by foot.

Faro and the Algarve

While Faro may not be the destination of choice among all the locations on the Algarve, it does offer up some attractions, including an old city, and even a couple of beaches that are easily accessible from the city center.

Faro also is a great ​jump-off point for the rest of the Algarve, as it has an airport and serves as the bus and train hub for the region.

Evora and the Alentejo

Evora is famous for its university, but it is certainly not just a university town. Evora has one of the best medieval towns in Portugal, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Evora is also ​a good place to base yourself to explore the Alentejo region, including its wines!

Though Braga is Portugal's third largest city, it has a laid-back attitude which can be enjoyed easily by foot. However, it still shows signs of its medieval past and boasts a 12th-century cathedral, among other attractions. However, the real draw is the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, which is located on the outskirts of the city. Located on the top of a hill offering views of Braga, one can climb the amazing zig-zagged baroque staircase or take the funicular up to the sanctuary

Guimaraes was picked as a European Capital of Culture for 2012 and with the Vila Flor Cultural Center opening in 2005, one would not wonder why. Guimaraes is not only about modernity. It has a medieval center as well as a 1,000-year-old castle. And if you feel like some fresh air, you can take a cable car up to a park that looks over the city.

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Full Suitcase Travel Blog

19 Most Beautiful Towns & Cities to Visit in Portugal

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

19 Most Beautiful Towns & Cities to Visit in Portugal

Are you thinking of visiting Portugal and wondering where to go? In this article, we cover the very best towns in Portugal. From major cities to smaller towns and picturesque villages – this list shows you all the nicest towns in Portugal that are worth a visit the most.

Despite being a relatively small country, compared to other European counterparts, Portugal offers a range of diversity that most travelers never expect it to have. Of all the European countries we visited in the last years, Portugal is the one that surprised us the most. We keep on going back and always find so much to explore and experience…

Whether you’re heading for the national parks or wine-country up north, spending time in the bigger cities, planning on traveling through the Alentejo countryside, or visiting the golden beaches of the Algarve in the south, there is so much to discover in Portugal…

I find that Portuguese cities and towns deserve a separate mention. However, despite having been to Portugal multiple times, we haven’t yet visited all of its amazing towns. I, therefore, asked an insider to share some of the very best places that will make your trip to Portugal even more special.

Our guest writer Marco from Travel-Boo travel blog lives in Portugal and knows the country inside out. In this post, he shares a roundup of the most beautiful Portuguese cities, towns, and villages.

I also added three of my personal favorite Portuguese towns to this selection; places that left ever-lasting memories during our trips to this beautiful country.

This selection of the best towns in Portugal will not only inspire you to plan a trip to Portugal but will also introduce you to some amazing little towns that many first-time visitors and travel guides overlook. Find out!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Best Things to Do in Portugal (Bucket List Experiences)

Most beautiful cities in Portugal

These are the best cities in Portugal:

Among all the cities in Portugal, Lisbon attracts the most visitors and attention. And rightly so! Without any doubt, Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. And not just in Portugal! Lisbon is quickly becoming one of the most popular city break destinations in Europe.

First-time travelers to Portugal include Lisbon into their travel journey, partly because it’s the easiest city to fly in and out of. But Lisbon is so much more than you’d come to expect from a capital city!

Not only is the weather phenomenal with plenty of gorgeous sunshine, but the people are warm and welcoming. Central Lisbon has a great small-town atmosphere that makes a visit more relaxing and enjoyable than in most other big cities. The city’s architecture and buildings are stunning and the views are simply incredible!

With so much history, charm, and amazing sights to explore, not to mention the delicious Portuguese food & cuisine, Lisbon is an absolute must in any Portugal itinerary. Even if you have just one day in Lisbon , it’s totally worth it and you’ll definitely want to come back for more!

Top Lisbon Sights & Activities: Explore the neighborhoods of Alfama, Baixa and Chiado | The Belem Tower & Jeronimos Monastery | Santa Justa Elevator | The Sé Cathedral and the incredible São Roque Church | Time-Out Food Market | Sailing on Tagus River.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon - one of the best cities in Portugal

Porto , the largest city in the north of Portugal, oozes character, history, and charm. The city, set along the banks of the famous Douro River is definitely worth a visit when planning your next Portugal holiday. Often overlooked and overshadowed by Lisbon, many first-time visitors are both surprised and impressed with Porto.

The city has so much going for it that spending a couple of nights here wouldn’t be a waste at all. Whether you’re lazing by the riverfront, enjoying a Port wine tasting , exploring the historic streets and sights, visiting the many churches with their blue and white-tiled facades or embarking on a day trip from the city , Porto will keep you busy for your entire stay.

If you love old-worldly charm and history, then Porto is definitely one of the towns to visit in Portugal.

Top Porto Sights & Activities: São Bento Train station | Torre dos Clérigos church and tower | Livraria Lello (the Harry Potter bookstore) | Port Wine Houses | Porto´s riverfront area | Palácio da Bolsa stock exchange palace.

Best cities in Portugal - Porto

The beautiful city of Coimbra , located at the foot of the Mondego River, is one of Portugal’s largest cities. This former capital of Portugal is also home to the oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. This University was established in 1290 in Lisbon and moved to its permanent location in Coimbra in 1537.

The grand and imposing University is set right at the top of a hill overlooking the city. It is also said to have inspired J.K. Rowling in her writing of Harry Potter when she lived in Portugal.

This is evident in the traditional black robes worn by the university students as well as the University hall and the showstopper, the exquisite Biblioteca Joanina. This impressive library is a must-see in Coimbra!

Although Coimbra University forms an important part of the city, there are tons of other great sights and activities to see and explore. A visit to one of the many churches including both the Old and the New Cathedrals are a must.

For a laid-back experience, the Botanical Gardens is an oasis of tranquillity and escape from the bustling historic city center. If you are traveling with kids, don’t miss the miniature park Portugal dos Pequenitos.

Top Coimbra Sights & Activities: Coimbra University – Biblioteca Joanina | Sé Velha – Coimbra (Old Cathedral) | New Cathedral | Igreja de Santa Cruz | Historic city center | Botanical Gardens | Miniature park Portugal dos Pequenitos.

Coimbra - one of the nicest cities in Portugal

Magical, royal Sintra is unlike any other town you’ll find in Portugal. Back in its heyday, Sintra used to play host to royalty and nobility as it was the popular summer residence of the Portuguese royals and aristocrats.

Today Sintra is awash with royal palaces and elegant estates, a true fairytale set amongst the forests and woods that surround the town. Don’t miss the colorful Pena Palace that could come straight from a Disney movie. The adjacent Pena Park is also worth exploring, just as the Moorish Castle which is located just nearby.

Quinta de Regaleira and especially its gardens is another must-see place in Sintra, attracting big crowds. Our personal favorite is the Monserrate Palace – stunning architecture, enchanting gardens, and hardly any tourists at this hidden gem of Sintra.

Given its location, under an hour by train from Lisbon, Sintra is a popular day-trip destination for many travelers visiting Lisbon. You can visit by train or join one of the many organized day – or half-day tours . Sintra is considered an absolute must-see in Portugal and should definitely be part of any Portugal itinerary.

Top Sintra Sights & Activities: Pena Palace and Pena Park | Quinta da Regaleira | Historic town center | Moorish Castle | Palacio Nacional de Sintra | Monserrate Palace.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Sintra & Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit

Best towns in Portugal - Sintra

5. Óbidos

Yet another of my favorite towns in Portugal is Óbidos . It’s set only a short hour drive away from Lisbon, making it a fabulous day tour from the capital . The medieval walled city of Óbidos with its rustic cobbled streets and glimmering white-washed houses is a pure delight to explore and definitely a must-visit when planning a holiday to Portugal.

This medieval city rose to prominence during the 13 th century when King Dinis I of Portugal bestowed the village as a gift to the bride, Queen Isabel.

Today, Óbidos is a very popular tourist destination in Portugal, probably best known for its cherry liqueur Ginja and all kinds of delicacies made with it. The town also hosts several annual events such as the Óbidos Chocolate Festival, the Medieval Festival, and the Christmas Village.

Top Óbidos Sights & Activities: Walk the city walls | Visit the various churches | Wander through the cobbled streets exploring Óbidos | Attend one of the many fairs & festivals that take place each year | Taste Ginja cherry liqueur.

Obidos - one of the best towns to visit in Portugal

6. Alcobaça & Batalha

Batalha and Alcobaça are two small towns in Central Portugal. They are best known for their incredible monasteries, the Monastery of Alcobaça and the Monastery of Batalha .

While the towns themselves aren’t that special, the monasteries are not to be missed when in Portugal. They are both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and it’s hard to say which monastery is more impressive or worth the visit more. That’s also the reason why we mention these two places together on this list of the best towns of Portugal. You just have to see them both!

The Monastery of Alcobaça was founded in 1153, but it wasn’t before mid 13th century that the building was finished. These buildings are the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal and the monastery is considered to be the most beautiful Cistercian abbey in Portugal.

But the biggest significance of the Alcobaca Monastery is in its relation to the Portuguese monarchy. Inside, you can find impressive Royal tombs where several kings of Portugal were buried. The 14th-century tombs of Inês de Castro and Pedro I are real masterpieces!

The Monastery of Batalha (literal translation – Monastery of the Battle) was built in order to commemorate the Battle of Aljubarrota (1385). The construction began in 1386 and took almost two centuries and fifteen supervising architects to somewhat complete the monastery in the mid 16th century. A part of the monastery – Capelas Imperfeitas (The Unfinished Chapels) – has never been finished. But it’s also one of the most impressive parts of the Batalha Monastery and something that makes it even more special and unique.

The monastery was damaged by earthquakes and wars and was completely abandoned in 1834. Luckily, a few years later, King Ferdinand II of Portugal ordered its restoration. It was only at the beginning of the 20th century that the Monastery of Batalha has been completely restored to its previous glory and declared a national monument.

Not only are these monasteries incredible feats of architectural engineering and design, but Batalha and Alcobaca are still pretty much hidden from the mainstream tourists that flock to Portugal every year. And yet, they are among the very best places to see in Portugal!

Top Sights: Monastery of Alcobaça | the Monastery of Batalha.

TIP: You can easily visit both these monasteries with organized day tours from Lisbon . Often, these tours will also include a visit to Nazare or Obidos – other amazing towns we also mentioned in this list.

Batalha Portugal

7. Èvora

Évora is yet another historic walled city of Portugal that deserves a visit. Set in the heart of the Alentejo countryside and only around an hour and a half’s drive by car from Lisbon, it can easily be visited as a day trip from Lisbon and there are some organized tours that visit Evora as well.

Surprisingly, Evora has managed to remain somewhat of a hidden gem with fewer tourists than most other towns in close vicinity from Lisbon. It seems that only the tourists in-the-know pass by here. However, the city is gorgeous and has so much to offer that spending a night would definitely be justified.

Some of the most interesting sights in Evora include the intriguing Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), the Roman Temple ruins, the imposing Cathedral as well as the town square, Praça do Giraldo. One of the highlights is a visit to the roof of the cathedral – the views are simply stunning!

Of course, Evora has so much more going for itself. In fact, the entire Alentejo region is renowned for its cork plantations, excellent wines and delicious food too! When visiting Evora be sure to go try the ‘Bochecas de Porco Preto’ (Black Pork Cheek stew) at a restaurant called Cozinha da Catarina (it’s located by the Porta da Aviz city gate). This is one of the best meals we’ve ever had in Portugal!

Top Evora Sights & Activities: Capela dos Ossos | Sé Cathedral and rooftop | Roman Temple (Templo Romano) | Praça do Giraldo | Explore the historic center on foot | Try the local cuisine & wines.

Evora - one of the best towns in Portugal

Cascais is a pleasant seaside town located just outside of Lisbon. Regarded as the Portuguese Riviera, Cascais and the coastline that snakes all along from Lisbon to Cascais, is another popular day trip from Lisbon.

You’ll find some stunning beaches scattered all along this coast. One of my favorite beaches is the Praia de São Pedro do Estoril. Another popular choice is the small beach known as Praia da Rainha (Queen’s beach).

Whether you choose to explore the quaint and dreamy historic center of Cascais, walk to the fort, visit the Estoril Casino, or simply laze on one of its beaches, Cascais will no doubt enchant and capture your heart!

Make sure to sample some delicious fresh seafood and take a stroll along the seaside promenade. Visiting Cascais is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon city.

Top Cascais Sights & Activities: Historic Center | Beaches in and around Cascais | Estoril Casino | Cidadela de Cascais (fort).

Cascais town in Portugal

What is undoubtedly one of my favorite places in the Algarve , Lagos attracts many visitors. Popular among locals and tourists alike, it somehow manages to retain its authenticity as a true Portuguese seaside town.

If the allure of Algarve with its golden sandy beaches and rugged golden rock formations sounds like your perfect holiday, then you’ll love Lagos. This town and the whole region is a true beach lovers’ paradise! But also nature lovers will love this stunning coastline.

The historic center of Lagos is usually abuzz with activity. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars lining the cobbled streets. But for me, the main drawcard to Lagos is the incredible beaches found in and around the town.

Praia Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo, Meia Praia, and many more are perfect examples of the most beautiful Algarve beaches found in and around Lagos. Most of these beaches can be easily reached on foot or by using public transportation, and, of course, by car.

Ponta da Piedade – one of the most impressive coastal features in Europe – is located just near Lagos. You can drive/walk there, but we highly recommend taking a boat tour to explore the sea caves and grottos of this stunning area from the water. Kayaking at Ponta da Piedade is also an unforgettable experience!

Nearby, you can visit some amazing sea caves, including the famous Benagil Cave . If you like hiking, we also highly recommend the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the same area.

This being the Algarve, I needn’t even mention the selection of water sports and other outdoor activities on offer as well. If a beach holiday and stunning coastlines are what you’re after, then Lagos will not disappoint. For families, there are plenty of water parks and several theme parks nearby.

Top Lagos Sights & Activities: Ponta da Piedade | Incredible beaches of Lagos | Historic city center | Igreja de Santo António church | Boat tours along the coastline | Water sports & outdoor activities.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Lagos & Where to Stay in Lagos

Lagos town in Portugal

Set only about an hour from Porto by train, Aveiro is yet another popular town in northern Portugal. It can easily be visited as a day trip from Porto or when driving between Lisbon and Porto. Aveiro is known as the ‘Venice of Portugal’ because of the colorful gondolas (known as Moliceiros) that travel up and down the canal, ferrying tourists on a sightseeing trip through the city.

But for me personally, the real charm of Aveiro is the exquisite and traditional Portuguese tiles that adorn many of the buildings and homes in the city. Walking around Aveiro and getting lost in the side streets and alleyways while photographing all these tiled buildings was definitely a highlight during our visit.

Also make sure to try out the egg-yolk sweet known as Ovos Moles de Aveiro. It’s a traditional delicacy of the region and very well-known and loved throughout Portugal.

Top Aveiro Sights & Activities: Gondola rides | Explore Aveiro’s art deco architecture and tiled buildings | Taste Ovos Moles de Aveiro.

Aveiro town in Portugal

11. Costa Nova

Heading a bit out of Aveiro to the beautiful beaches nearby, you’ll come across Costa Nova . This is probably one of the most picturesque towns in Portugal!

Costa Nova is a small beachfront town with colorful striped houses that make for some great vacation photos. In summer, this is also a very popular summer holiday spot for many Portuguese families.

We visited Costa Nova during low season, in April, and the atmosphere in town was great. We especially enjoyed visiting a local fish market, strolling around the beautiful pedestrian promenade lined with colorful houses, and discovering some more authentic striped houses a bit further from the main street.

Costa Nova is one of the prettiest little towns in Portugal and it’s really worth a short visit. If you are visiting Aveiro, Costa Nova is just a very small detour nearby, so don’t miss it.

Top Costa Nova Sights: Striped houses along Av. José Estevão |Local Fish Market | Costa Nova Beach.

Costa Nova - colorful small town in Portugal

The city of Braga , located around an hour north of Porto, is not only one of the oldest cities in Portugal, but also one of the countries most important and noteworthy religious destinations. Braga is a very popular day trip from Porto and you can easily visit with a tour .

The city boasts an incredible array of religious heritage sites. In fact, it has over 30 churches including the Braga Cathedral, the oldest in the country and dating back to the 12 th century.

Of particular interest is the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary pilgrimage site. It’s an impressive sight as you behold the Baroque-style staircase that leads up to the church at the top. This is definitely one of the most photographed sights in Braga where many devout pilgrims also climb the 116-meter stairs on their knees.

Top Braga Sights & Activities: Bom Jesus do Monte | Braga Cathedral |  Praça da República.

Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga town in Portugal

13. Guimarães

One of my personal favorite cities in Portugal, Guimarães , also happens to be one of the most important places in the country. The city dating back as far as the 9 th century when it was known as Vimaranes, is regarded as the birthplace of Portugal.

It is believed that the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born in Guimarães. It is also within close vicinity of the city that the Battle of São Mamede was fought, an important step towards the eventual establishment of the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139.

Today, it’s a pleasant town with a quaint and extremely charming historic city center. Make sure to visit the castle, the Ducal Palace, and other significant sights in and around the city.

Top Guimarães Sights & Activities: Palace of the Dukes of Braganza | Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Oliveira church | Guimarães Castle | Historic town center.

Guimaraes, Portugal

14. Nazaré

One of the most popular seaside towns in Central Portugal, Nazaré is an old fishermen’s town that has a great mix of traditional culture and beach life.

If you come here on a busy summer weekend, it will perhaps remind you of any other beach resort in Portugal. However, if you visit a bit off the main season, you’ll find a quaint little town where people still wear traditional clothing and dry fish on the huge wooden racks on the beach.

If you visit a local restaurant, the chances are big that they bring you a whole platter of freshly-caught fish to choose from instead of a menu.

Nazaré is also famous for its wide sandy beach, the world’s highest waves, and the most incredible sunsets that will make you linger a lot longer than you’d planned.

Top sights in Nazaré: Fishermen’s district Bairro dos Pescadores | Nazaré beach | Nazaré funicular | O Sitio district.

LEARN MORE: What to do in Nazare

Portugal towns - Nazare

The former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar, Tomar is a gorgeous city set in central Portugal. Together with nearby Batalha and Alcobaça (see above), these three towns make up the monastic triangle featuring incredible Manueline-style monasteries.

Convento do Cristo in Tomar was built in 1160 and served as a headquarters for the Knights Templar, making Tomar one of the most important medieval sites of Portugal. It is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tomar is also home to the ‘Festa dos Tabuleiros’ (the Trays Festival) where the entire city is decorated by flowers. It only takes place every four years. It’s an incredible sight to behold as the city comes alive with the vibrant colors and festivities that take place.

Top Sights: Convento do Cristo in Tomar.

TIP: A visit to Tomar is a popular day trip from Lisbon and is often combined together with some other impressive medieval sights nearby. Many tours to Tomar include a visit to the nearby Almourol Castle, situated on a small island in the middle of the Tagus River.

Convent of Christ in Tomar town in Portugal

16. Fátima

Situated around an hour and a half drive north of Lisbon, Fátima is one of the most religiously significant cities of Portugal.

Perhaps not the prettiest town, Fátima is home to numerous important religious sites including the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. This is the spot where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to three shepherd children back in 1917. The alleged apparitions took place between the dates of the 13 th of May until the 13 th of October of that same year and were later recognized by the Catholic Church.

Today the city draws many visitors. It’s especially busy during Easter as well as mid-May when the annual festivals celebrating the anniversary of the apparitions take place.

Top Fátima Sights & Activities: Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima | Capela das Aparições (Chapel of Apparitions) on the original site where the apparitions allegedly took place | Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário.

Fatima, Portugal

17. Monsaraz

If you love medieval, fortified cities, Monsaraz is a truly spectacular sight to behold. This lesser known town is located only around an hour’s drive east of Evora, heading towards Spain. As you drive up the hill, where this fortified village rises up from, you start to appreciate the incredible feat of construction that must have gone into building this city and its castle.

Entering the city gates, you are greeted by the incredibly charming, white-washed houses and cobbled streets. The main street is lined with boutique shops selling all sorts of Alentejo handcrafts and local products. Wondering through the rustic streets you can head to the Monsaraz Castle and walk along its walls, passing by the historic bullfighting ring.

Given Monsaraz’s vantage point, being set so high up, the views here are to die for! As you stand on the castle walls, you can look out over the Alqueva River that separates the Beja district of Spain from Portugal. This is also the perfect spot from which to enjoy an unforgettable sunset!

TIP: Feel like taking a swim? Head down to the Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz (the man-made beach situated on the banks of the Alqueva River), about a 10-minute drive from the village.

Top Monsaraz Sights & Activities: Historic center | Monsaraz Castle | Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz.

Monsaraz - one of the nicest small towns of Portugal

Tavira is yet another hidden gem in the Algarve region and is one of the prettiest towns in Algarve . Tavira is extremely popular amongst the Portuguese, but more and more foreign tourists are discovering it as well.

Set along the Gilão River, the historic town center is definitely worth exploring. As you wander through the streets you can still find traces of Moorish influences, mixed in with quintessential Portuguese architecture. The colorful buildings, some decorated with intricate Portuguese tilework, is perhaps what adds so much character and charm to Tavira.

If you have the time, explore the nearby beaches and visit Praia da Ilha de Tavira, a beach-island that requires a ferry crossing from Tavira.

Top Tavira Sights & Activities: Explore the historic city center | Praia do Barril beach | Tavira Castle | Praia da Ilha de Tavira.

LEARN MORE: What to See & Do in Tavira

Tavira town in Portugal

19. Funchal

And last, but not least, I also want to add Funchal to this list of the best cities in Portugal. While all the other towns mentioned in this article can be found on mainland Portugal, Funchal is the capital city of the Portuguese island Madeira . It’s one of the nicest cities in Portugal and definitely deserves a mention and a visit.

Set in the stunning surroundings with the green hills dotted with red-roofed houses, banana trees, and colorful flowers on one side and the azure blue sea on the other, Funchal is a city that truly has it all.

Centuries-old history and architecture, unique traditions, exotic flowers and fruit, Madeira wine, and delicious food. Furthermore, there are countless hiking opportunities in Madeira , you can go whale watching , and visit all the top sights and hidden gems of Madeira just by taking day trips from Funchal…

Funchal and the entire island of Madeira deserve a separate trip. But with the easy flight connections from Lisbon, you can easily add a few days in Madeira to any Portugal itinerary. It will be worth it!

Top Sights in Funchal: Old town | Various botanical gardens | Monté cable car| Wicker toboggan sled | Mercado dos Lavradores.

LEARN MORE: Things to Do in Funchal & Things to Do in Madeira

Best cities in Portugal - Funchal

So, this is our guide to the best towns in Portugal. Of course, there are many other beautiful towns in Portugal, including one of our favorite hidden gems – Ponta Delgada in the Azores. But if you are looking for travel inspiration for Portuguese cities, this list covers all the ‘musts’ and so much more than you’d be able to cover in one trip.

About the author. Born and raised in South Africa, Marco Santos moved to sunny Lisbon over 2 years ago. With an absolute love for Europe, he is on a mission to rediscover his own Portuguese heritage along the way. Marco shares his passion for traveling throughout Portugal and Spain on his blog Travel-Boo .

I want to thank Marco for sharing these great tips with our readers and I truly hope that you found some new travel inspiration in this post.

TIP: If you are thinking of visiting several of the best towns of Portugal, but are not sure how to plan your time, take a look at our Portugal itinerary . It contains our day-to-day road trip itinerary that covers most of the best Portuguese towns mentioned in this article. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from Lisbon

More tips for your trip to Portugal:

  • One day in Lisbon
  • What to See and Do in Sintra + Itinerary
  • Best Things to Do in Nazaré
  • Best Things to Do in Lagos
  • Portugal with Kids
  • Best Beaches in Algarve
  • Algarve Road Trip Itinerary
  • Algarve with Kids
  • What to See & Do in Faro
  • What to See & Do in Sagres
  • What to See & Do in Albufeira
  • Where to Stay in Albufeira
  • Benagil Cave
  • Portugal in April
  • Algarve in April
  • 10 days in Portugal: Trip Itinerary from Lisbon to Porto

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Most beautiful towns in Portugal

You may also like to read:

  • Most beautiful cities and towns to see in Italy
  • Best cities to visit in the UK
  • Best towns and cities to visit in Romania
  • The nicest towns on the Alsace Wine Route in France
  • Best towns to see in Tuscany, Italy
  • Most beautiful coastal towns of the Italian Riviera
  • Best towns to see in Lake Como, Italy
  • Spain bucket list

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Edla Arruda

Thursday 23rd of February 2023

Tracy Booth

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Thank you for the great descriptions of all these cities and beaches. They all sound interesting. I have heard that the Portuguese are expert horsemen and so I would like to visit a few sights that show horse races and farms. Can you recommend any?

Monday 9th of January 2023

Hi Tracy, unfortunately, I have no personal experience with this, so I can't help you much. I'm sure you can find all kinds of information online. Enjoy Portugal!

Thursday 22nd of July 2021

Great article. We will use your recommendations when we plan our trip this May 2022.

Friday 23rd of July 2021

May is a great time to visit Portugal, Ron! Good luck with the planning and have a great trip!

Sunday 26th of April 2020

Hi! There is so much more in Portugal that is not related to capital Lisbon and towns located near the sea. Towns like Vila Real, Guarda and Viseu offer very much for a tourist and all that for a much lower price than popular tourist cities. Also wine lovers will love Portugal.

Monday 27th of April 2020

Agree! There are so many amazing places, little towns, and villages in Portugal. But for most people visiting Portugal for the first time, even these 19 will be too much to cover. So we tried to select the most beautiful towns, those that are worth visiting the most.

Go Backpacking

10 Best Cities In Portugal To Visit This Summer

By: Author Aistis

Posted on Last updated: November 9, 2023

If you're planning a vacation to Europe this summer, consider these ten cities in Portugal worth adding to your bucket list.

Portugal is blessed with beautiful beaches, islands, and scenic landscapes.

There is something for everyone in Portugal, and your money will go farther there than in other European cities like Rome or Budapest .

Your itinerary should be designed so that you can discover the best cities in Portugal during your trip. To make it easier for you, here are the ten best cities in Portugal to visit in summer.

Portuguese Cities

People walking in Faro, Portugal

Faro has the only international airport in Southern Portugal, so it tops many travelers' itineraries.

There is much to explore in Faro, like the Ria Formosa lagoon, golden Algarve beaches , golf courses, and small villages.

Many tourists visit Faro during summer, as it's lovely to walk around cobblestone streets while viewing attractive whitewashed houses in the historic center.

It's famous for its seafood, so remember to try the delicious oysters and sardines in local restaurants.

Braga Bom Jesus Do Monte

Being one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, Braga in Northern Portugal is well-known for its numerous churches.

A stunning monument that shouldn't be missed during your Braga trip is the Bom Jesus do Monte, a renowned church believed to have a stairway to heaven.

If you enjoy viewing archeological and decorative items, visit the Biscainhos Museum.

Furthermore, you can visit Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal. During summer, the cathedral is open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Painted boat in Aveiro (photo: Ricardo Resende)

An hour's drive in your rented car from Porto will take you to Aveiro, notable for its museums, canals, and traditional cuisines. The main attractions are the Church of St. Dominic and the Church of Aveiro's Mercy.

You can spend your day admiring the artistic murals and shopping for souvenirs in the local market. To end your day, try having ovos moles, a traditional dessert of eggs.  

Pena Palace in Sintra

Sintra is about a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, and there is so much to see and do that you can easily spend a few days here.

Summers are the peak tourist season, so you may find crowds in prominent attractions like Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle. You can visit these places early and during weekdays to avoid crowds .

Evenings can be spent relaxing on soft sandy beaches by renting lounge chairs. Some beaches offer perfect surfing, paragliding, sailing, and fishing conditions.

Try the Queijada, a traditional Portuguese pastry from Sintra made with eggs, milk, cheese, flour, and sugar.    

Porto Douro River

Located along the Douro River, Porto is one of the major cities in Portugal. It's favored for centuries-old churches, cobblestone streets, and lip-smackingly good cuisine.

Francesinha sandwich and tripe (made up of farm animals like pigs, cows, or sheep) are the two traditional snacks of Porto.

July and August are the busiest summer months, so book accommodation and car rental well in advance.

If you're traveling with kids, you should visit Livraria Lello's bookshop, rumored to have inspired Harry Potter's Hogwarts Castle.

More captivating attractions that shouldn't be missed are the Stock Exchange Palace and Clerigos Church.   

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal and one of the best places to visit for authentic trams, streets, striking architecture, and tasty food.

The most visited attractions in the Portuguese capital are Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower, each a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you're a foodie, check out local tour operators' fantastic food and wine experiences. Also, visit the Time Out Market, a food hall of about 50 stalls representing various cafes, bars, pastry shops, and restaurants.     

Thanks in part to its culture and affordability, Lisbon is a popular base for digital nomads and expats. For those choosing to live there, a Portuguese translation service can come in handy for any business or visa needs.

Cascais (photo: Calin Stan)

Cascais is a popular beachside destination, so travelers prefer visiting during summer for sunbathing and swimming.

It takes approximately an hour to reach Cascais from Lisbon by car or vice versa if you do your car rental in Cascais .

The best beaches of Cascais are Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Conceicao. If you're interested in surfing and water sports, visit Praia do Guincho.

Evenings can be spent playing games and relishing authentic Portuguese cuisine at Casino Estoril, the largest casino in Europe. There are over 1,200 table games and slot machines to keep you occupied.  

Boats in Lagos, Portugal (photo: Olga Guryanova)

Located west of the Algarve, Lagos is recognized for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and cliffs.

The old town of Lagos is a perfect place to walk on cobblestone streets while admiring traditional Portuguese-style architecture.

Relaxing and sunbathing on beaches like Porto do Mos and Meia Praia will make your holiday memorable.

Nature lovers may want to plan for a day trip to the caves or kayaking along the coastline.

To savor grilled fish and meat, visit Arribale restaurant. To enjoy traditional cuisine and tapas, go to Casa do Prego restaurant.

The coast of Funchal, one of the best cities in Portugal to visit

Funchal is the largest town in Madeira, an island about 600 miles (1,000 km) southwest of mainland Portugal. Famous landmarks include museums, cathedrals, historical sites, and botanical gardens.

If you want to explore the local shops like Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmer's Market) and eat traditional meals, visit the Old Town of Funchal.

With an entire day in hand, you can book tickets for the Monte Cable Car to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

If you enjoy drinking wine, you should not leave Funchal without experiencing the making of Madeira wine by visiting The Old Blandy's Wine Lodge.

Also, remember that Funchal can't be reachable by car as it's a separate island.

Tomar (photo: Christopher John Pratt)

Tomar is a great place to learn about Portugal's rich history and culture. This small city has several interesting historical monuments, making it an ideal tourist destination.

Some of the best things in Tomar that can't be missed include:

  • Aqueduto dos Pegões (historic site)
  • Castelo de Tomar (medieval castle)
  • Igreja de São João Baptista (church)

To dine on mouth-watering seafood, visit Cervejaria do Fernando restaurant. For a meal overlooking a lake, visit Sabor da Pedra.

Related: Best Hiking in Portugal

The author in Portugal

Final Thoughts

If you want to explore these popular destinations, renting a vehicle is advisable. Renting a car in Portugal with Auto Jardim will give you the freedom to discover the entire area conveniently.

Moreover, you won't have to plan your day as per the timetables of trains and buses. So have a wonderful holiday while discovering the best cities in Portugal.

best cities to visit in portugal in july

My name is Aistis and I am a traveler from Lithuania. So far I visited 32 countries and still actively counting!

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

  • G Adventures for small group tours.
  • Hostelworld for booking hostels.

Team Wanderlust | 24 April 2023

The 27 best places to visit in july.

Here are some of the world's top destinations for immersing yourself in local nature, wildlife and culture in July, from Australia to the Azores...

July is usually one of the busiest months for travel. School's out, and the weather in many parts of the world is at its warmest and sunniest. In the northern hemisphere, summer celebrations are in full swing, national parks are prime for exploring and the world's best beaches burst into action.

Whatever you're looking for from your July getaway – be it sunny and sweet, or packing in as many culture and natural highlights as several weeks allows – you'll surely find something to suit you from our selections.

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list:

  • Where to go in July for sunny weather
  • Where to go in July for wildlife experiences
  • Where to go in July on a longer-term adventure
  • Where to go in July for art and culture festivals

Here are the 26 great places to visit in July...

The best july destinations for nature and ideal weather, 1. madeira and the azores, portugal.

Pride of Madeira (Shutterstock)

Pride of Madeira (Shutterstock)

July is one of the hottest months of the year in Portugal , with average temperatures of 24°C during the day. The Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores in the North Atlantic are a few degrees cooler, but all three destinations are ideal if you’re seeking the sun.

Nicknamed the Floating Garden of the Atlantic, Madeira is in bloom all year round. As the name suggests, Pride of Madeira – a bush with purple cone blooms – is native to the island, but if you visit in July you’ll see magnolias, red hot poker trees and hydrangeas. Hydrangeas are also popular in the Azores, particularly around Sete Cidades near Lake Azul.

Festival goers might want to book a trip around Fiesa, an annual summer sand sculpture festival in  Pêra on the mainland. As well as watching artists carving 12m high sculptures and seeing them illuminated at night, visitors can attend workshops. Meanwhile, over in Tomar, women parade through the town carrying bread on their heads during Festa dos Tabuleiros, which is held every four years. The next one takes place in July this year (2023).

Over on Madeira, visitors can attend a 24-hour folk dancing festival in Santana, a jazz festival in Funchal and a canoe regatta and games during Sea Week in Porto Moniz. The Azores meanwhile hosts a week-long party and regatta on Sao Jorge Island and Santa Maria Blues festival on the eponymous island. And while spring is best for whale-spotting in the Azores, sperm and minke whales do ply its waters year-round, so take a whale-watching trip or keep your eyes peeled from land. 

2. Gibraltar

Gibraltar Botanic Gardens (Shutterstock)

Gibraltar Botanic Gardens (Shutterstock)

Set on the southern tip of Spain, this peninsula hits highs of 28°C in July and benefits from 11 hours of sunshine a day. If you’re after beaches, visit the east side of Gibraltar and you will find the colourful, Italianesque Catalan Bay, and Sandy Bay, best suited for swimmers and water activities. 

Visitors can explore the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens all year round, while the endemic Gibraltar sea lavender blossoms on rocks and cliffs around Europa Point and Camp Bay in July. Plus, you're almost guaranteed to spot hundreds of dolphins when joining a boat tour that takes you out into Gibraltar Strait, offering fantastic views of the dominating Gibraltar Rock. 

The height of summer is also the best time to experience festivals. Calentita Food Festival takes place in early July, while Gibraltar Regatta is usually held later in the month.

River Vjosa in Albania (Shutterstock)

River Vjosa in Albania (Shutterstock)

Most of Europe benefits from sparkling weather in July, but along with August, it's when you'll find the beaches most crowded, and the cities packed with visitors.

Fortunately, it is possible to find a European hot spot that, even in peak season, is slightly less crowded than the others: the Balkan country of Albania.  Temperatures here reach hot heights of 30°C to 35°C.

Spend a few days in Albania's capital  Tirana  for an unusual city break, and discover that the resort town of  Sarandë is a dreamy combination of beaches, history and hiking.

The River Vjosa flows through Albania and has recently received national park status, becoming the first wild river national park in Europe, so there's no better time to explore this protected ecosystem. 

And finally, don't miss The Blue Eye natural spring in Muzinë. This UNESCO-listed site has bubbling blue waters that can reach up to 50 metres in depth.

4. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France

Gordes is one of the medieval hillltop villages in Luberon (GranTotufo/Shutterstock)

Gordes is one of the medieval hillltop villages in Luberon (GranTotufo/Shutterstock)

Provence in July is often visited for its endless rows of lavender fields, but if you look beneath the surface, there’s so much more wilderness to explore across the region.

The steep terrain makes Alpes-de-Haute-Provence perfect for adventurers, with activities such as hiking, rafting and mountaineering all possible to experience. Head to Verdon Natural Regional Park for superb gorges, turquoise glacial river waters, and wildlife spotting, or UNESCO-listed Luberon Region Natural Park for its fields of vineyards, limestone mountains, and medieval villages that perch on rugged hilltops.

Beyond the blissful summer scenery, a July visit to Provence should also be well timed with France's national day, La Fête Nationale, commonly known as Bastille Day. It's an annual celebration in France taking place on 14 July, often marked with festivities, fireworks and the odd parade.

And if you're determined to set your sights on lavender fields before you go, the spa town of Digne-les-Bains is the self-proclaimed lavender capital of France.

Read next  Where to see the world's best floral spectacles

6. the seychelles.

The stunning island of St Pierre in The Seychelles (Shutterstock)

The stunning island of St Pierre in The Seychelles (Shutterstock)

Expect glorious weather across the Indian Ocean archipelago to continue throughout July, reaching pleasant highs of around  28°C, usually averaging out around 25°C to 26°C.

And where better to enjoy such warm sunshine than on one of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles ? Beach relaxation is a given, but you can certainly make an adventure trip out of the islands.

Seek the elusive giant Aldabra tortoise, snorkel and admire the natural beauty of St Pierre Island, or get your feet dirty hiking through the rich green forests of Morne Seychellois National Park.

A castle in the countryside of Ireland (Shutterstock)

A castle in the countryside of Ireland (Shutterstock)

There's never a better-time weather wise to get in your car and road trip through  Ireland   (unless, maybe, you count March, for St Patrick's Day). In July, you can expect 18 hours of daylight, and a cool temperature. There may be the odd surprise summer shower, but you can't have it all...

Where you drive is up to you, but a stop in colourful Kilkenny can lead you straight to the capital, Dublin, via County Carlow's wild countryside.

If you can, ensure you stop over in Galway, and pay a visit to Connemara National Park, soaking up the nature and hikes, and also the coves and bays along the coast. County Cork is also a must-visit... but we could go on.

Alternatively, the little-visited northwest tip is glorious in the summer. The Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal has enough to occupy you for days, with white-sand beaches without the crowds, numerous blustery coastal walks, and fantastic local  pubs serving hearty meals.

Read next Things you must do in Ireland

8. switzerland.

Harder Kulm lookout point, Interlaken (Shutterstock)

Harder Kulm lookout point, Interlaken (Shutterstock)

Many people associate Switzerland with the winter, as skiers and snowboarders flock to destinations such as Zermatt  and St. Mortiz . But they're really missing out on something special. In summer, the Swiss Alps transform into an adult playground for outdoor enthusiasts, without having to step into snow boots. July is an ideal time to visit, as temperatures range from 18 to 28 °C.

Head to the town  Interlaken , known as the 'Adventure Capital of Europe'. Located in the Bernese Oberland, you can enjoy everything from  endless alpine hikes and guided kayak tours on turquoise lakes, to adrenaline-pumping activities such as white-water rafting, canyoning and paragliding. This region offers some wild fun in a beautiful setting.

Don't miss taking the 100-year-old cogwheel train up to  Schynige Platte, where you'll be met with botanical gardens and unbeatable vistas. And before you go, make sure you tuck into a  hot cheese fondue at one of the many restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine. 

Colourful homes brighten the streets of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Colourful homes brighten the streets of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Sun-seekers can rejoice in Mexico's July temps, reaching highs of a hot  28 °C. It does cool off in the evenings, so you won't be sweltering all day. You may fancy a lightweight jacket, and even a brolly just in case there's a touch of summer rainfall.

Mexico's best-known beaches and hidden coves are often found on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Tulum and Cancun. But there are other benefits to the warmth beyond catching a few rays for yourself: July is peak sea turtle season in Mexico.

There's also nature reserves and national parks aplenty, but to cool off from the heat, visit one of the many cenotes. These natural pools were once key water sources for the Mayans, and also believed to be portals to the underworld where Mayan gods would visit. Now, they offer incredible guided swimming, snorkelling   and diving experiences for travellers.

The best July destinations for wildlife watching

10. whale watching and puffins in iceland.

Atlantic puffins (Shutterstock)

Atlantic puffins (Shutterstock)

While you can see sheep, cows and Icelandic horses – a breed of intelligent, petite horses – all year round, in summer you can also spot herds of reindeer around Snaefell and colonies of Atlantic puffins breeding on cliffs around the isle. July is also peak season for whale watching. The best place to take a trip to see humpback, minke and blue whales is from Husavik, in the north of the island.

The days are long, the temperatures at their highest, and so this is the perfect month to really explore Iceland's delights 

Read next: The best things to do in Iceland

11. brown bear watching in sweden, finland and arctic norway.

A brown bear strolls through the bog (Shutterstock)

A brown bear strolls through the bog (Shutterstock)

Early to mid July is often the best time to spot a brown bear in Finland, Sweden or Arctic Norway. Typically, brown bears arise from hibernation around April time, and tend to disappear for mating in June, before becoming visible again – often to feed.

Your best bet of a sighting is at night, often from a 'bear hide' hotel, and with the help of a specialist guide – a.k.a. a 'bear safari'. You'll have plenty of tours and locations to choose from. 

The Lakeland region of Finland is covered in thick forests, and has approximately 2,000 bears in its midst. In central and northern Sweden, it's even harder to catch a glimpse of the region's reported 3,000 brown bears – though  Hälsingland, Bollnäs and Sandviken are all popular choices.

Honestly, it's much rarer to see a bear in Norway – if you do, it'll be near the Swedish and Finnish border.  

12. Birdwatching in Vanuatu

Two rainbow lorikeets, who often appear in Oceanic countries like Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea (Shutterstock)

Two rainbow lorikeets, who often appear in Oceanic countries like Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea (Shutterstock)

The 80 islands making up the Pacific Ocean county of Vanuatu may not have the largest number of birds in history, but the ones it does call its own are rather special.

There are thought to be 30 rare species flying around, 11 of which are said to only appear in Vanuatu. The rainbow lorikeet, for example, might be native to Australia, but it frequents Vanuatu  – and is quite the colourful sighting for a keen birder.

There's also the coconut lorikeet, the weird and wonderful V anuatu megapode, and the super cute red-tailed tropicbird, to name a few... a must for fans of sensational birdlife.

13. Roos on Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroos spot the camera on Kangaroo Island, Australia (Shutterstock)

Kangaroos spot the camera on Kangaroo Island, Australia (Shutterstock)

July is midwinter for Australians, though don't expect minus temperatures and piles of snow. There may be a little rain, but temperatures rest around a palatable 14 °C.

Kangaroo Island  is o ff South Australia and, despite the devastating fires of 2020, it's  back to being a must-visit for fans of marsupials. Kangaroos roam the island freely and can be spotted on farmland and along the verges. Wallabies are shyer but keep your eyes peeled at dusk and after dark. 

Expect to see koalas, and a variety of beautiful birdlife too, including wedge-tailed eagles (Australia's largest bird of prey) and very rare glossy black cockatoos. Head to  Flinders Chase National Park for seals and bird life. Also worth a visit is Seal Bay Conservation Park, to see protected sea lions doing their thing.

14. The Great Migration, Tanzania and Kenya

The Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra begins in Tanzania, Africa (Shutterstock)

The Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra begins in Tanzania, Africa (Shutterstock)

One of the world's biggest and boldest wildlife migrations is the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. It starts in northern Tanzania's Serengeti, and over 1.5 million animals move towards the Masai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya, as they thirst for water and fresh grass.

You can actually experience a part of the migration at almost any time of year, as our Great Migration calendar goes to show. In July, you can expect to see the herds "spread out from  Grumeti Game Reserve and Ikorongo Game Controlled Area to the northern reaches of the Serengeti," according to our expert William Gray.

The crossing over into Kenya really depends on rainfall in Tanzania, so you have to play it by ear. The migration could occur in mid-June, if the waters have run dry –  or as late as September, if the zebra and wildebeest aren't so thirsty. There's often opportunity to spot the crossing in July, so choose your timings wisely.

Read next  The world's most spectacular migrations

15. polar bear spotting in spitsbergen, norway.

A polar bear plays in the snow in the Svalbard/Spitsbergen region of Arctic Norway (Shutterstock)

A polar bear plays in the snow in the Svalbard/Spitsbergen region of Arctic Norway (Shutterstock)

A polar bear sighting in the wild is one of life's great joys, whether you're hardcore into wildlife watching, or find it makes up only part of your travel experience.

In the Svalbard archipelago, April to September is prime wildlife spotting season –  including polar bears as they roam on a ceaseless search for food. This is when official tours take place, and is your best shot of getting an up-close glimpse of these deceptively gorgeous (and quite dangerous!) creatures in their homes. Sadly, you can't really go off polar bear-seeking on your own.

The most popular way of exploring Svalbard is to take an expedition cruise up Spitsbergen's west coast and around the archipelago. These last several days and mix shore excursions with wildlife spotting from deck. Polar bears are often seen on the cliffs and beaches as they look for any marine life that has been washed up. Alternatively, base yourself in Longyearbyen on Spitsbergen and take tours from there. In July, you'll have missed the deep snows of earlier in the season, and the ice won't have quite melted, as it does by the end of the season. So, July's often thought of as one of the best times, weather-wise, to explore. 

The best July destinations for long-haul travel

16. belize (and its neighbours).

Belize, and its neighbours, are prime for visitors in July (Shutterstock)

Belize, and its neighbours, are prime for visitors in July (Shutterstock)

We've talked plenty about the beauty of Belize  on Wanderlust , and we reckon July's a great time to take in all this Central American gem has to offer.

The weather, firstly, is at its best. Hot days are followed (often) by rainy nights, with a cooling breeze rolling in shortly after. Now's your chance to dive the  Belize Barrier Reef and Glover's Reef, explore ancient Maya cities such as Lamanai, and marvel at the Blue Hole – a natural large sinkhole off the coast that is both mysterious and the largest of its kind.

You could spend weeks soaking up Belize, but make it a multi-country trip (if you've got the time to spare) and tick off the neighbouring Central American countries of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador while you're at it.

17. Alaska, USA

Denali National Park looking mighty impressive, with clear blue July skies (Shutterstock)

Denali National Park looking mighty impressive, with clear blue July skies (Shutterstock)

There's a small window for Alaska's peak season: late May to July. There'll be 17 to 18 hours of daylight each day during a July excursion, and it's also the warmest time of year to visit – with highs of approximately 18 °C.

It may not be the cheapest time in-season to visit (that's probably late May), but it is the best for exploring. The prime weather makes exploring the vast Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park a total joy. It's a highlight for any nature lover.

Whalewatchers will also benefit from a July trip, as that's when you're most likely to spot humpback whales swimming in the sea. Anglers meanwhile will find it's also the best month for fishing for Alaska king salmon.

18. Namibia

Namibia is famous for its sand dunes, Sossusvlei (Shutterstock)

Namibia is famous for its sand dunes, Sossusvlei (Shutterstock)

It's true that Namibia , in Southern Africa, is a country that has it all. Famous for its towering red sand dunes, it's also a wildlife hot spot, with a sprawling sandy coast. 

We'd say you'll need the best part of two weeks, if not longer, to really take it all in. July's just the time to do it. The weather is pretty sensational, for one thing. There's low chance of rain, and the temp typically hovers around 20 °C – making exploring the Sossusvlei dunes and the desert expanse much cooler than you'd expect.

The lack of rain is perfect for wildlife lovers, too: Etosha National Park's many animals will be gathering around the water holes to quench their thirst, so you've a good chance of spotting zebra, giraffes and elephants side by side.

Read next  Top things to do do in Namibia

19. indonesia.

The exterior of the Indonesia Museum in the capital, Jakarta (Shutterstock)

The exterior of the Indonesia Museum in the capital, Jakarta (Shutterstock)

Where do we begin with Indonesia? T he island-hopping? The many moving and unusual religious festivals that take place? The melting pot of cultures, evident particularly in its cuisine? There's so much to see and do - you could spend months here and never get bored.

It won't be the quietest month in Indonesia, as temperatures reach up to a scorching 30°C and visitors do come to many of the 17,000+ islands that make up Indonesia for a dose of glorious sun. But as its dry season, you've got a good chance of ideal weather on all the islands.

Bali is a classic, as is Java – the most populous island in the country, where you'll find the capital city, Jakarta.

We'd also suggest Sumatra, and Komodo Island for a unique glimpse at the Komodo Dragon in its natural habitat. Finally, Nusa Tenggara (the Lesser Sunda Islands) are all good places to start.

20. French Polynesia

Singing and dancing performances are part of French Polynesia's Heiva Festival in July (agefotostock/Alamy Stock Photo)

Singing and dancing performances are part of French Polynesia's Heiva Festival in July (agefotostock/Alamy Stock Photo)

French Polynesia is a long-haul destination worth every minute of the journey, with its largest island Tahiti and neighbouring island Bora Bora being the most sought-after. Nowhere is perfect, but this volcanic archipelago comes pretty close, with its crystal-clear ocean waters, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and some of the world’s most idyllic accommodation (you’ve undoubtedly seen the island’s overwater bungalows on your Instagram feed). Not to mention its weather, which hovers around 30 °C  year-round, with July being the midst of its dry season.  

But beyond its beauty and weather, July is when you can experience Heiva Festival. It’s one of the world’s oldest festivals, showcasing Polynesian heritage through a colourful, two-week-long celebration. Most of the islands participate in the festival in some form, with events including everything from song and dance performances, to sporting competitions (the canoe race is best known). 

French Polynesia is perfect for adventurers. Follow walking trails on foot or horseback to breathtaking lookout points, or go diving or snorkelling to see the thriving wildlife in the island’s surrounding waters. As a bonus, July is also the beginning of whale-watching season in French Polynesia.

21. Thailand

A yacht around the island of Phuket Shutterstock)

A yacht around the island of Phuket Shutterstock)

July is rainy season in Thailand , but rainy season gets a bad rap. You have to expect downpours of course, but they rarely last all day and have the added bonus of creating incredible waterfalls. Accommodation tends to be cheaper, too.

Visit the north of Thailand in July to experience Phi Ta Khon, or Ghost Festival. The festival's origins are partly based on one of Buddha's past lives when he was a prince who was presumed dead after  a long journey – but his safe return led to  celebrations so huge they were said to wake the dead.  As well as  parades, music shows and pageants, you can watch l ocals dressed in ghostly masks compete in games. 

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival also takes place in the north this month. What began as a Buddhist tradition of donating candles to monks has morphed into spectacle of float-like candles parading to local temples.

The best July destinations for arts and culture

22. philadelphia, usa.

Independence Hall in Philadelphia (Shutterstock)

Independence Hall in Philadelphia (Shutterstock)

A sprawling, metropolitan city in the United States of America  seems an obvious choice for July, right? San Francisco, New York, Seattle, Portland, Houston, or pretty much anywhere will be sure to offer you the full red-white-and-blue experience. There'll be fireworks and parades galore in celebration of Independence Day, taking place annually on the fourth of the month.

We've picked Philadelphia due to  being  slightly more  off the radar compared to other big-hitting US cities, but more so for its history.  Philly is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, so we really couldn't think of a better spot to honour the occasion. Expect a week full of concerts, parades and fun activities, with the city's main event being the firework display above the Philadelphia Museum of Art. 

23. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's Gion Festival is one of Japan's biggest (Shutterstock)

Kyoto's Gion Festival is one of Japan's biggest (Shutterstock)

Kyoto's Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival) is one of Japan's most famous annual celebrations, taking place throughout July. It's been going since the year 869, when the reigning emperor ordered worship at the Yakasa Shrine, in hopes that it would prevent the plague.

It's part of the fabric of the city, with rituals, ceremonies and parades taking place throughout the month. On the 17 and 24 July, traditional parade floats glide through packed streets, and the festivities culminate on the last day of the month, resulting in another street celebration, known as the 'purification' closing ceremony.

It's worth witnessing the magic, especially if you have a keen interest in Japanese tradition and culture. But if you want to experience Gion Matsuri among welcoming locals, you should book what needs booking well in advance. 

What makes this year even more special? The event has been cancelled in the past three years due to coronavirus, so 2023 will be an exciting return. 

24. Montreal, Canada

A float in Montreal's July comedy festival, Just For Laughs (Shutterstock)

A float in Montreal's July comedy festival, Just For Laughs (Shutterstock)

Montreal's Just For Laughs festival does involve people in the streets and arty parade floats, but it's all decidedly a bit less serious.

The comedy festival started in 1983, and has laughed its way to the top: it's now said to be the largest comedy festival in the world. Typically, it takes place over two to three weeks in July, and offers locals and visitors a variety of stand-up shows, comedy nights and evening events  – taking place in many different locations across the city.

Expect showcases for the biggest names in US and Canadian comedy, a few of British comedy's biggest stars, as well as new talent and a bit of off-beat entertainment...

25. Mallorca, Spain

Valldemossa, Majorca (Shutterstock)

Valldemossa, Majorca (Shutterstock)

One of the four main Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Mallorca comes alive in mid July with the Virgin of Carmen Festival (also known as Día de la Virgen del Carmen fiesta) . The festival dates back to the 13th century, when a monk had a   vision of the Virgin Mary with her baby son in her arms. Today, particularly in coastal areas, visitors can watch an effigy of the virgin guide  a procession of floats carried by fishermen down to the sea, where the parade continues on illuminated boats as fireworks are set off to music. 

Later in the month, on 28 July, you can also attend a festival dedicated to Saint Catalina Thomas, Mallorca's only   patron saint. A procession of carriages decorated with ribbons and flowers takes place  in the saint's former home town of  Valldemossa. 

July is the high season for tourists, but it's possible to get off the beaten track after you've finished enjoying the festivities. Visit the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains that line the backbone of the island to follow scenic winding roads (beware, you'll need a head for heights) and visit the traditional villages nestled into its valleys, such as  Sóller  and  Deià.

26. Mongolia

The opening ceremony at Nadaam Festival (Lucy Brown/Shutterstock)

The opening ceremony at Nadaam Festival (Lucy Brown/Shutterstock)

Every July, Mongolia celebrates the country's culture and unique sports at Naadam Festival . Its name roughly translates to 'Manly Festival', and focusses on three main nomadic events: archery, horse racing and wrestling. Although women do not take part in the latter, young girls can now compete in the horse racing, and women in the archery.

As one of the biggest festivals in Mongolia's cultural calendar, you'll see participants and locals dressed in traditional clothing. Beyond the sports, there are concerts and parades to keep you entertained, plus plenty of opportunities to sample traditional cuisine, such as  khuushuur  (fried dumplings) and  airag  (fermented mare's milk). 

All the main events take place in Ulaanbaatar, but t he festival can be enjoyed across Mongolia . Those who want to have a more remote, intimate experience should head into the countryside: Khovd in the west or Khatgal in the north are known to also known to put on a show.

27. St Lucia

Parading the streets in St Lucia during Carnival (Angela N Perryman/Shutterstock)

Parading the streets in St Lucia during Carnival (Angela N Perryman/Shutterstock)

St Lucia Carnival is the highlight of summer in the Caribbean. Celebrations are centred around the Castries, which comes to life with Soca, Calypso, and steel-pan performances by artists from St Lucia and neighbouring islands. If planning your visit, make sure to sign up to your favourite fetes (planned parties) before they sell out.

The event culminates on the final days during the National Parade, where thousands take to the streets as part of marching bands, wearing brightly-coloured costumes embellished with feathers and sequins. Visitors and locals can spectate, but can also join the bands as they take to the streets, if registered early enough.

St Lucia Carnival originated in 1947, when a small crowd first paraded the island . More than 75 years later, around 30,000 revellers join the party every year.

You may also like:

The best places to visit in may, the best places to visit in june, the best places to visit in august, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The Best Destinations to Visit in Portugal

Dont miss the Atlantic-shouldered shores of Sintra

Despite its boundless popularity, Portugal continues to be one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It has it all – a rich history, innovative art, stunning views and friendly, laid-back locals. Visiting has also become easier since TAP Portugal, the country’s main airline, has increased its stopover programme to five days. But which part of the country is right for you? Well, here’s our guide to the best destinations to visit in Portugal.

A Tale of Two Cities: Exploring Northern Portugal – From Porto to Lisbon , our nine-day trip whisks you off to Douro Valley vineyards, secret beaches and Jurassic-age headlands.

1. Lagos, for a charming getaway in the Algarve

Natural Feature

A woman walking down a street along the whitewashed buildings of Lagos

Framed by twin crescents of golden sand and set behind a cape of caramel-coloured cliffs, Lagos is quintessentially Algarve. But unlike many of the region’s towns it hasn’t lost its original charm. The old centre, which clusters around the boat-bobbing Bensafrim river, is filled with 18th-century townhouses and Baroque churches (rather than concrete condos), and the bars and restaurants that fill the higgledy-piggledy alleys behind the medieval castle still feel as local as they do touristy.

2. Albufeira, for spectacular beaches

Turquoise-green clear water and a hidden sandy beach among the golden cliffs near Albufeira in Portugal

Twin bays separated by sea-arches, coves cut from crumbling cliffs, golden swathes of sand that seem to stretch for eternity, it’s no surprise that Albufeira draws the hordes. They cram the beaches and golf courses in high summer, but come in spring (when the surrounding hills bloom with wildflowers), or autumn (when the sea is still warm), and the whitewashed, Moorish village at its heart is as quiet as birdsong.

people cheering on a mountain

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4. Funchal, for the best of Madeira

Colourful plants around a pond in the Funchal Botanical Gardens, with views over the city of Funchal, Madeira

The narrow streets and leafy squares of Madeira’s capital clamber up a hill from the sparkling Atlantic. There are wonderful views at every turn, especially from the sub-tropical Monte Palace gardens and the hulking fortress that crowns the city. Columbus and Cristiano Ronaldo (who has his own museum) are former residents, and the city bursts with historical sights – the cathedral and Colégio church (with magnificent gilt interiors), opulent Quinta das Cruzes mansion and the bustling art deco Lavradores market.

5. Évora, for Roman history

The columns and stone ruins of the Temple of Diana in Evora, Portugal

The capital city of Portugal’s sweltering Alentejo rises up a hill – in whitewash and terracotta – to a magnificent ruined Roman temple. Ancient aqueducts bridge crumbling Moorish walls, narrow alleys ring with the peal of bells from an array of ancient churches (including St Francis, with its grisly chapel of human bones) and the city makes the perfect access point for the stone circles, vineyards and castle villages which litter Portugal’s forgotten interior.

6. Madeirã, for exotic island life

White houses with terracotta rooftops in a mountain village on the hillside of Madeira, Portugal.

Exotic flowers, balmy climate and, OK, quite a hair-raising approach by plane: there’s something special about Portugal’s subtropical island offcut, 1078km (670mi) southeast of the mainland in the Atlantic Ocean. Traditionally a winter retreat for older people seeking sunshine, it’s grown into the trendiest of Portuguese destinations – the capital, Funchal, offers one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in the world. Make sure to take the ferry to nearby Porto Santo Island, where you’ll find one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Portugal. A visit at any time of year is worth your while.

7. Porto, for foodies and port lovers

Historical Landmark

The city skyline of Porto at night, lit up across the river

Don’t miss Portugal’s second city. Like the capital, Porto unfurls beside a major river and possesses its own old, colourful townscape. Love azulejo tiles? You’ll adore nosing around São Bento station, where walls are gleamingly surfaced with these beautiful ceramics, as far as the eye can see. The pleasure of Porto is its digestibility – a long weekend is easily enough time to saunter about its gardens, medieval palaces and cathedrals before thoughts turn to dinner. The cuisine is widely held to be the best in the country, and even the simple francesinha – a ham and steak sandwich baked with cheese – is ambrosial. With Culture Trip, you can enjoy a culinary walking tour of Porto on our specially curated nine-day Portugal adventure . Visited not least for its celebrated port, Porto is also your gateway to the Douro Valley, where vineyards race away in braided expanses, to the horizons and beyond.

8. Lisbon, for chic neighbourhoods and top attractions

Colourful buildings in the Alfama district lit up at twilight in Lisbon, Portugal

It’s for good reason the capital sits at the top of a zillion must-visit lists: it is a seduction of the senses, whether you’re loving the custardy sweetness of pasteis de nata , the savoury salt-fish zing of bacalhau , or the beauty of the calçadas (traditional mosaic walkways). Lisbon remains one of the most affordable, tranquil capitals in Europe. By day, it draws you up steep and winding alleyways to phenomenal lookout points. By night, mouthwatering aromas and wistful, melodic vocals (known as fado ) drift from intimate restaurants lining the cobbled labyrinths. In trendy Chiado, discover the oldest bookshop in the world. And in boho-chic Bairro Alto, prepare to down a few crisp, cold Sagres beers as the neighbourhood becomes livelier with each passing hour.

9. Ericeira, for the best surfing

Waves crashing into the shore and the Atlantic coastline of Foz do Lizandro between Ericeira and Cabo da Roca

Surfing is as good as a religion in Portugal, and the little fishing village of Ericeira has acquired a near spiritual status among incurable wave-riders. North of Lisbon, it’s no trouble to get to – you can be there by bus in barely more than an hour, for a smattering of Euros – and while it’s not the closest beach town to the capital, it is certainly one of the busiest. If surfing isn’t how you roll, that’s not a problem: in Ericeira it has evolved into something of a spectator sport these days, with eager crowds admiring the athletic antics. Ericeira’s restaurants major in fresh, delicious seafood . Pick your table, load up on sardines and octopus salad and graze away the days until late-night escapades in Lisbon beckon you back.

10. Algarve, for a warm weather escape

Fishing boats on beach in Carvoeiro village, with colourful buildings in the background in the Algarve

The Algarve is one of the best places to go if you like your weather warm, your hiking adventurous and your beaches trendy. Portugal’s southernmost region is a postcard of whitewashed settlements, manicured golf courses and expensive, expansive resorts. Sure it’s touristy, but it’s also a place of escape, with tiny fishing villages and coves where jewel-bright waters are cradled by dramatic cliffs. Whether you like it or not, everyone speaks English – handy if you need directions and can’t muster a word of Portuguese. After all, the Algarve has long been synonymous with retired Brits abroad, hence the air-brushed feel around such places as Albufeira and Vilamoura. Don’t lose heart if you want to break away from the tourist crowds : there is much still relatively undiscovered, and tranquil towns include Sagres, Tavira and Aljezur, to name but a few.

11. Alentejo, for bone churches and top wine tasting

Cathedral, Museum, Natural Feature

Spacious interior with bone-laid walls and frescoes on the ceiling in the Chapel of Bones in Evora, Alentejo, in Portugal

12. Sintra, for the best castles in the country

Botanical Garden, Building, Ruins, Natural Feature

The brightly coloured Pena Palace, with turrets and towers, in Sintra, Portugal

Poking up in the foothills of the eponymous mountain range, Sintra appears almost cartoonish at first sight, with its vividly coloured walls, its bottle-green gardens and its Disney-like crenelated castles. No wonder kids love it – and so many people day-trip out from Lisbon, 30km (19mi) or so to the southeast. You’ll need to stay overnight to take it all in, and you won’t regret investing 48 hours – or even more – in a hotel sojourn. From the romantic 19th-century Pena Palace to the medieval Castle of the Moors, this is a destination with all the fairytale appeal of Camelot or Westeros. So it comes as no surprise to learn that Hans Christian Andersen once lived in a house in the woods of Sintra. You may well stumble upon it as you bowl back downhill from the palatial sights.

13. Óbidos, for a picture-perfect visit

Terracotta rooftops and a view of the castle and stone walls in Obidos, Portugal

14. Serra da Estrela, for outdoorsy nature lovers

A cluster of buildings in the mountainous village Piodao in Serra da Estrela, Portugal, surrounded by greenery and trees

Portugal isn’t all beaches, which brings us to Serra da Estrela, home to the highest mountain peak in continental Portugal (the highest being in Pico Island, the Azores). North of Lisbon, sharing its latitude with the Spanish capital, Madrid, it’s not the simplest destination to get to, but believe us, a visit more than repays the effort. This is Portugal for nature lovers and winter-sports enthusiasts: the remote mountain range of Serra da Estrela has plenty to see and do, and is a magnet for skiers in winter. Sparsely speckled with tiny villages, including one of the seven wonders of Portugal , the mountain feels deliciously remote, with the natural world the obvious attraction. But epicureans won’t be left in the lurch: the local homemade honey and creamy, pungent cheese are memorably delicious.

15. Coimbra, for the academics and library fans

The ornate entrance and clock tower in the university, Torre da Universidade de Coimbra, in Coimbra

In the very heart of Portugal is a city that attracts more visitors than most of the others put together. The reason? Coimbra is home to a significant number of Roman and medieval ruins and has further historical pedigree, having once served as the capital of the country. Among the most visited tourist attractions is the University , which is one of the oldest continually operating, degree-seeking institutions in the world. But Coimbra’s greatest claim to fame is its library; the Baroque-styled Biblioteca Joanina has been listed numerous times as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

16. São Miguel, for stunning natural scenery

Volcanic hot springs, each surrounded with a ring of rocks, letting off steam in Furnas

Nearly halfway between the American and Portuguese coasts is the Azorean archipelago, each island as deserving of your holiday time as the next. The largest, São Miguel , is the easiest to reach by air, and is a wonderful rolling green oasis with plenty to absorb you for a few days. This is a thoroughly Azorean experience, helped by hiking trails, waterfalls and beautiful twin lakes called Lagoa das Sete Cidades. An absolute must-visit is the small village of Furnas: as the last word in volcanic power, here you’ll discover the natural, mineral-rich hot springs and calderas in the ground.

17. Monsanto, for a mountainous retreat

The pretty buildings and terracotta rooftops of Monsanto nestled into the mountains

Here’s one for wannabe time travellers: Monsanto, near the Spanish border, has been known nationally as the most Portuguese village in Portugal since 1938, when the title was voted in. Occupying some challenging terrain, it derives its name from the 750m-high (2461ft) mountain about which it clusters, Mons Sanctus, and its fame stems from its unique looks. Like something from a children’s storybook, it was built to accommodate gigantic boulders already lying around, and its little granite homes appear in places to be almost squashed by them. Come to savour the atmosphere of an earlier century or era, wandering alleys barely wide enough for donkeys, let alone cars, and pass through little squares where elderly people chatter.

18. Peneda-Gerês National Park, for forest camping

Park, Natural Feature, Forest

Forest and greenery in Peneda-Geres National Park, looking down to a large body of water at the bottom of the mountainous valley

19. Guimarães, for royal Portuguese history

Church, Museum, Natural Feature, Historical Landmark

Tables and chairs under umbrellas on a pretty cobblestone street with historic buildings in Guimaraes, Portugal

20. Braga, for a vibrant and youthful city break

Building, Church, Monastery, Ruins, Natural Feature

Blurry people walking down Rua do Souto, a traditional shopping street, in the evening in Braga, Portugal

Still not sure what to do in Portugal? Read our guide to the most stunning seaside towns , or – if history is more your thing – see our rundown of the most beautiful castles . And if you need somewhere to stay, let Culture Trip be your guide. We’ve unearthed the top places to stay in Portugal, from the best boutique hotels in Lisbon (don’t forget to try pastéis de nata while you’re there) to the most incredible hotels in the Alentejo wine region .

Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

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15 Best Cities to Visit in Portugal

Last updated on October 4, 2023 by Alex Schultz - Leave a Comment

Situated on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula looking out over the Atlantic, the history of Portugal’ cities has long been tied to the waters that surround it. Famous navigators left its ports to return with fantastic riches that helped build the amazing cities that we know today.

From picturesque Porto and historic Evora to lovely Lisbon and the fairytale-like Sintra ; there are simply loads of great cities in Portugal to explore.

In this post, we'll cover:

Faro

Located in the idyllic Algarve region , Faro is a great city from which to explore the delights of this beautiful and untamed part of Portugal. Numerous beaches, sea cliffs and picturesque rocky alcoves dot the coast and there are a plethora of sites just waiting to be discovered with some stunning views also to be had.

In Faro itself, the old part of the city is wonderful to walk around and as so many people descend on the city during the summer, the place has a lively atmosphere as holidaymakers look to have a good time in the sun.

14. Figueira da Foz

Figueira da Foz

Despite its rather ugly features, Figueira da Foz has been a popular haunt with tourists for years and every summer hordes of them descend upon the city to enjoy all that it has to offer. Attracted by what is possibly the widest beach in Europe (it takes nearly ten minutes to reach the sea across the sand!), many visitors look to lounge on the beach and taste some local cuisine at the restaurants and bars nearby.

The busiest resort along this stretch of the coast, Figueira da Foz has a gigantic casino that also draws people to the city. In addition to all this, the great waves at the nearby Praia do Cabedelo are perfect for surfers looking to take to the surf.

Viseu

With a beautiful historic center comprising narrow alleys that weave their way between mansions, palaces and churches; Viseu is a picturesque city to visit. The 12th century cathedral is the principal attraction and its weathered façade gives off a delightful sense of timeliness.

As it is built on a hilltop the more modern parts of the city fall away from the historic center, draping themselves down the hillside. Wandering around Viseu is a lovely way to spend the day.

Leiria

The main attraction in Leiria is the stunning castle that so beautifully sits atop a hill overlooking the city. With trees springing up around its ancient walls, it is magical to behold, appearing as if out of a fairytale.

From the castle itself there is a great view of Leiria down below. Amidst the tightly packed buildings there are a few museums to explore and, as it is a university town; the center comes to life at night. Nearby beaches provide visitors and locals alike with the chance to catch some sun while lounging by the shore.

Guarda

The highest city in the whole of Portugal, Guarda is somewhat grey to behold as it is mostly made out of granite. This is due in large part to the fact that the city used to protect its residents from Spanish invaders. As such, an old castle used to be located here and wandering around the center you´ll see different parts of its ancient walls popping up here and there.

While the city is a bit drab, there are various old churches, palaces and townhouses which are worth stopping by with the amazing Gothic cathedral in the center of Guarda being the city´s main draw. For those looking to explore the scenic Serra da Estrela mountains, Guarda is a great gateway to them and the mountain range itself is simply stunning.

10. Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo

With the lovely scenery surrounding the city, its beautiful monuments, awe-inspiring architecture and charming vibe; Viana do Castelo certainly has a lot going for it! The Republic Square which gives off a timeless feel has a number of lovely buildings and facades surrounding it and it’s a great place to sit back and have a drink in, taking in all of their features.

Coupled with the Basilica of Santa Luzia which is modelled on the Sacre Coeur in Paris; these are just two of the highlights that delight visitors to this marvelous city.

9. Guimaraes

Guimaraes

Said to be the city where ´Portugal was born´, Guimaraes was the country´s first capital and its incredible castle and beautiful palace certainly testify to its prestigious past. While these two important sites obviously take precedence when visiting the city, there are a number of other places also worth checking out.

For a stunning view, head to the nearby Penha Mountain and marvel at Guimaraes down below. In the city, Olive Square is a peaceful place to spend some time and here you really get a feel for the wealth of history that the city is steeped in. Lying about fifty kilometres north of Porto, Guimaraes is a great day-trip for history lovers.

Funchal

Located on the stunning island of Madeira, Funchal serves a gateway from which to explore its natural wonders. The city itself has numerous botanical gardens which are nice to walk around and have a lovely view out over the Atlantic.

Two of the most popular places to visit are the Colegio Church which has an ornately decorated interior and the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores. With a number of world famous wines produced in Madeira you´ll want to sample as many as possible before heading off to your next destination.

Evora temple

With more than two thousand years of history packed into this small city and over four thousand historic buildings, temples and churches, some dating back to Roman times; Evora is mesmerising to explore.

The chilling Bone Chapel is interesting to visit as are the Roman walls, ancient aqueducts and 13th century Gothic cathedral. The city center is packed with fascinating places to visit and outside of Evora is the intriguing megalithic complex of Almendres Cromlech that has a large group of menhirs and gigantic stones, laid out in a circle.

Coimbra

The largest city in the region that bares its name, Coimbra has a plethora of historical sites that will delight history lovers and, with one of the oldest universities in the world; the city has been a seat of learning for generations.

Nowhere is this better demonstrated than at the beautiful baroque Biblioteca Joanina which is stunning to behold. The city center is great to wander around with peaceful gardens and old churches overlooking the Rio Mondego down below. Before leaving, make sure to listen to some of the nostalgic Fado music that is native to the city.

Braga

Seamlessly mixing the old with the new, the different sides to Braga make it a fascinating place to stop by. The highlight for many is the incredible Bom Jesus do Monte; looking up at it from the bottom of an almost endless flight of steps, the cathedral at the top looks majestic. After a breathless ascent, there is a lovely view of the surrounding area.

The historic center of the city is also great to visit and there are numerous churches and museums to pique your interest. The spectacular cathedral dates back almost a thousand years and, coupled with the new modern developments and spread out university campuses; it perfectly presents the different faces of the city.

Aveiro

With its network of canals, footbridges and colorfully painted boats, it is perhaps unsurprising that Aveiro has been nicknamed the ´Venice of Portugal´. Situated on the Atlantic coast, many people flock here for the picturesque beaches that lie just outside the city and the accompanying watersports on offer.

Aveiro itself has more than enough attractions to keep people occupied with the most popular being the impressive Aveiro Cathedral and the ornately decorated Convento de Jesus. Head to Bairro Antigo for some delicious local cuisine.

Sintra

Almost fairytale-like in terms of what is on offer, Sintra has domineering castles, elegant palaces, luxurious villas and royal residences that will entice and astound visitors to this beautiful part of the country. The undoubted highlight is the jaw dropping Pena Palace which is bewitching in its uniqueness.

Nestled among a tree-filled hilltop, the bright yellow building looks as if it appeared out of a Disney film, such is its eccentricity and distinctive architectural style. The nearby Moorish Castle is another fantastic place to visit as are the picturesque mountains that surround the area.

Porto

As it is the home of port, it is somewhat a given that you should try this sweet yet potent alcohol when visiting the city in northern Portugal. Porto is a picturesque place with vibrant colored buildings overlooking the Douro River and the famous white and blue tiles that are so associated with the country are scattered around the city.

The numerous hills are dotted with medieval palaces, cathedrals, churches and more and simply wandering around Porto is a delight in itself. Head to the old center of Ribeira for its lively atmosphere, narrow twisting alleys and views over the river.

Lisbon

Portugal´s capital city has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years and it´s easy to see why. With its lovely weather, wealth of historical sites and picturesque setting on the banks of the Tagus River; it´s a fantastic place to spend some time.

See also: Where to Stay in Lisbon

The impressive St. George´s Castle perched atop of a hill overlooking the city is a popular site to visit as are Belem Tower and the breathtakingly beautiful Jeronimos Monastery. With great, affordable food, Lisbon certainly has something for everyone – make sure to try the famous Pastel de Nata before you leave!

Map of cities in Portugal

Map of cities in Portugal

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Portugal

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best cities to visit in portugal in july

Millions of tourists travel to Portugal every year, but it can be hard to figure out where to go. Luckily, this 1-Week Portugal Itinerary guides you on where to spend 7 days in Portugal. 

The itinerary starts in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon and then heads south. You can enjoy the journey fully through public transport, but when leaving Lisbon to head to the Algarve, we do recommend renting a car.

When renting your vehicle, you can select to pick up the car at Lisbon airport and return it at the end of your trip at Faro airport, where this itinerary ends.

While both Central Portugal and the north have a lot to offer, this 7-day itinerary is perfect for a first-timer who hasn’t yet visited the country. 

For everything you need to know before traveling to Portugal, check out our  Portugal Survival Guide.

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Day 1: Arrive in  Lisbon

This 1-Week Itinerary in Portugal starts in the capital of Lisbon. Many cities around the world fly directly to Lisbon. You can fly directly to Lisbon from many US airports, including Miami, Boston, Washington, San Francisco, and New York. 

One of the oldest cities in western Europe, Lisbon has seen a boom in tourism due to its unique beauty, historical attractions, and affordability.

The birthplace of Amália Rodrigues, the iconic  Fado  singer, Lisbon is rich in culture, history, and striking views. 

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Guide to Lisbon

For your visit day in Lisbon, start your day off in Alfama. The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and the home of fado. Explore the neighborhood and look out for Fado spots, as well as historical monuments such as the Lisbon Cathedral, the Convent of the Grace, and more.

For lunch, take a look at our  favorite restaurants in Lisbon. 

For a traditional Portuguese meal, we recommend Alfaia, one of the oldest restaurants in Lisbon that opened in 1880.

If you are vegan but still want to try Portuguese food, we definitely recommend Ao 26 Vegan Food Project.

For the best pizzas in Lisbon, head to Casanova in Santa Apolonia to take some pizzas cooked in a large wood-burning stove and enjoy views of the Tagus river. 

Then head to Miradouro da Graca, one of the most iconic viewpoints in Lisbon. At the top of the seven hills of the city, you get to see historic neighborhoods and take photographs of the surroundings. 

Then take the iconic 28 tram from Miradouro da Graca that passed by Praca do Comercio and other locations. Hop off in Chiado.

Chiado is well known for being home to the best stores a nd luxurious cafes, located in the heart of the city. The 1700s Bertrand book store is located here, as well as the emblematic cafe A Brasileira. 

Take a 15-minute walk to Praca do Comercio, the city’s central waterpoint front. The large square used to be the site of the former royal palace that was destroyed in the Great Lisbon Earthquake in 1755. 

There are multiple shops and restaurants in the square. You can also climb the Rua Augusta Arch for 360 views of the city and the square. 

For dinner, head to 1 de Maio in Bairro Alto for an affordable Portuguese meal. This hidden restaurant offers delicious fresh seafood that you can see from the window and a variety of meats like lamb. 

After dinner, head to Pink Street in Cais do Sodre. The street features pink pavement and was once Lisbon’s Red Light District. Today, it is a nightlife hotspot.

Many bars today still reflect the Red Light District such as the iconic bar Pensao Amor which has memorabilia from the time. Walk around to experience the nightlife which often fills the street, locals bringing their drinks outside. 

Best Hotels in Lisbon

  • Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel:  Awarded the Best Luxury Green Hotel in 2019, Inspira Liberdade provides a relaxing Feng-Shui vibe for its guests. The hotel has a SPA, fitness room, bar, and a restaurant with Portuguese food called Pen Brasserie Mediterrânica.
  • Selena Secret Garden :  The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room. In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado.
  • Bairro Alto Hotel:  This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha.

Day 2: Lisbon

For your second day in Lisbon, we recommend exploring Belem. Belem lies along the Tejo Estuary and is home to two UNESCO sites, Torre de Belem and Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. 

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is a former monastery in Belém constructed in Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style and you can visit the church for free. 

Torre de Belem is a 16th-century fortification that once served as an embarkation spot for Portugal explorers. It features a Manueline style and has been a World Heritage Site since 1983.

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

A 2-minute walk from the monastery, head to Pasteis de Belem where the traditional Portuguese custard tart was first invented.

In the afternoon, we recommend booking a sightseeing tour. Since you only have 2 days in Lisbon, this is a great way to see as much of the city as possible. Here are our favorite guided tours of Lisbon:

  • Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk : This tuk-tuk tour rides up and down the hills of Lisbon, going through the city’s oldest neighborhoods and main attractions.
  • Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour:  Book a 24-hour ticket which includes an audio guide. This affordable ticket allows you to visit different routes and hop in as you would like. 
  • Lisbon 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike:  This tour allows you to cycle through Lisbon on comfortable e-bikes with a guided tour. You will get to visit different viewpoints and historical attractions.

At night, walk to Bairro Alto, the most popular area for drinking outdoors. Tons of locals and tourists line the streets of Bairro Alto with a beer in hand. We recommend Ze dos Bois Gallery, a musical center that has live music and serves tasty drinks. 

Best Restaurants in Lisbon

  • Ze dos Cornos: For a Portuguese person, this place is like arriving at your Avó’s (grandma´s) house for dinner. Everything off the menu hits the spot, but try their codfish with potatoes or their rabbit. You can have a large full meal here with wine for under €15. 
  • The Green Affair: Open since 2018, the Green Affair serves Portuguese and international dishes. The restaurant offers lunch menus for less than €11 including a starter, main, and drink. For dinner, you’ll pay around  €30 for two people. 
  • Alma: Henrique Sá Pessoa’s, Alma also has two Michelin stars. The menu includes Portuguese dishes with influences from his worldwide travels. The menus start at €145 per person and do not include drinks. The wine tasting menu costs €80 per person. 

Day 3: Day Trip to Cascais & Sintra from Lisbon

Book Sintra & Cascais Tour

The great thing about Lisbon is its proximity to quaint coastal towns. Our favorites: Sintra and Cascais. We recommend either driving to these locations (both around 30 minutes from Lisbon), booking a guided tour , or taking a 30-minute train to each town. 

In Sintra, we recommend heading to Piriquita for the staple deserted called a “travesseiro”. After this energy boost, head to the Castle of the Moors. This is a medieval castle that sits on a hilltop and was built by the Moors in the 8th century.

Then, head to Pena Palace, one of the most iconic palaces in all of Portugal. The palace has a Disney-like feel, painted in beautiful colors in a romanticist style. You can also wander around the castle and see the beautiful green area that surrounds it. Tickets cost around €15.

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Guide to Sintra

We recommend having lunch at a seafood restaurant in Cascais. Our favorites are Furnas do Guincho and Baia do Peixe, the latter being a more affordable alternative.

Then it’s time to explore Cascais, the richest municipality in the country! Head to “Praia da Rainha”, a secluded  beach  with a wonderful view, perfect for a family photograph.

Find Frederico Arouca street, a high street with major stores selling Portuguese souvenirs. Then walk to the City Hall in Praca 5 de Outubro, a beautiful building surrounded by cobblestoned streets.

To wrap up your day, head to Guincho beach,  a 10-minute drive from the center of Cascais, to watch the sunset. If the weather is nice, take a dip! But be careful with the waves as they can get quite high. 

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Guide to Cascais

Day 4 & 5: Tavira

A 3-hour drive from Lisbon, drive south to Tavira, in the beautiful region of the Algarve. Alternatively, you can catch a train to Faro or a bus directly to Tavira. 

Tavira was built alongside River Gilão and features some of the best beaches in the Algarve, as well as picturesque narrow streets with traditional houses. Along with the stunning beaches, the town has multiple attractions such as shops and historical buildings.

Your two days will be more slow-paced than the past days in Lisbon. You will be spending most of your time at the beach.

Our favorite beach is Praia do Barril. The beach features a wooden path over golden sand which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Due to the large size of the beach, you will rarely feel like it’s too busy, despite its popularity.

Praia de Tavira and Praia da Terra Estreita are also great alternatives in Tavira. If you want to discover multiple beaches this affordable  4-hour boat tour  takes you on an octopus tour and stops at multiple beaches.

In between resting at the beach, we recommend exploring Tavira. Take a walk through the city and explore the Chapel of Sao Bras, castle, and convent. Book this 100% electric 1-hour tuk-tuk tour  if you want a guided tour of the city from a local’s perspective. 

Tours in Tavira

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Best Hotels in Tavira

  • São Paulo Boutique Hotel:   São Paulo Boutique Hotel is located less than 5 kilometers from the beach and features an outdoor swimming pool, bar, shared lounge, and large garden for guests to enjoy. 
  • OZADI Tavira Hotel:  A 4-star hotel AZADI Tavira Hotel is 3 kilometers away from the beach and features a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, and two restaurants. 
  • Quinta Dos Perfumes:  An 8-minute walk from the beach, Quinta dos Perfumes is an 88-acre farmhouse that features beautiful orange groves and a salt-water outdoor pool.

Guide to Tavira

Day 6: Day trip to Benagil Caves

Benagil is a fishing village known for its stunning beaches and sea caves. The Benagil caves are a must-see if you head to the Algarve. We recommend booking a guided tour, many of which start in Albufeira. Here are the best day tours to Benagil Caves.

  • Dolphins and Benagil Caves from Albufeira : This boat tour allows you to discover dolphins, marine life, and Benagil caves in an inflatable boat. A stop for a swim is included!
  • Caves and Coastline Cruise from Albufeira to Benagil : This catamaran cruise takes you on a scenic route between Albufeira to Benagil. You will get to explore the sea caves and go for a swim. 
  • Boat Tour to Benagil Caves from Armacao de Pera : A boat cruise from Armacao de Pera that takes you to see the Benagil Caves with a crew that will tell you about the region.

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

Benagil Tours

Day 7: Morning at the beach and travel home

Enjoy your last day at your favorite beach in Tavira. Again, we recommend Praia do Barril. Then travel back home from Faro Airport, only a 30-minute drive away from Tavira.

1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

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22 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

Written by Paul Bernhardt , Michael Law , and Lana Law Updated Sep 29, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

For such a small country, Portugal packs a punch. From cosmopolitan cities and out-of-the-way towns and villages to lively beach resorts and spectacular national parks, this diminutive nation offers an incredibly diverse range of visitor attractions .

View over Sesimbra

Occupying a wedge of Iberia and sharing a border with Spain and a fantastic coastline with the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal's location in this sun-kissed corner of Western Europe lends it a singular appeal.

Its southern reaches remain a compelling vacation destination, renowned for gloriously sandy beaches and world-class golf courses . The country's interior, meanwhile, offers a wealth of contrast: rolling plains; broad rivers; deep, verdant valleys; and remote mountain ranges.

More far-flung parts of Portugal, namely the Azores and Madeira offer off-the-beaten-track destinations showcasing nature at its best and a different cultural and gastronomical experience.

Defining Portugal's history is an amazing collection of monuments and historic buildings, many of them recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. And underpinning the country's personality is its people - open, friendly, and hospitable. Spend some time traveling the country, and you'll be enamored by the color, flavor, and warmth of its character.

For help planning your trip, see our list of the best places to visit in Portugal.

7. Parque Natural da Ria Formosa

9. parque natural da serra da estrela, 11. guimarães, 12. madeira, 14. parque nacional da peneda-gerês, 15. bragança, 16. mértola, 18. the azores, 22. parque natural da arrábida.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe's most alluring cities. Set on the banks of the River Tagus, this vibrant Atlantic port is scattered over a series of hills that heighten its splendid waterfront location. Exploring the city's historic core is a journey into its fascinating past - a heritage exemplified by celebrated visitor attractions , such as the mighty Castelo de São Jorge and Alfama , the oldest part of Lisbon.

A collection of world-class museums extends the cultural experience. To the east, away from the city center, you can marvel at the modernity of Parque das Nações and its crowd-pulling sites such as the brilliant Oceanário.

Funiculars in Lisbon

Across to the west in Belém , Portugal's golden Age of Discovery is mirrored in the magnificent Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the quirky Torre de Belém , both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In between, you can amble across handsome tree-lined squares; stroll along broad, riverfront esplanades; or take in jaw-dropping panoramas from the various miradouros, or viewpoints, dotted across the city.

Sintra

Enchanting Sintra is one of the gems in Portugal's glittering sightseeing crown. Recognised by UNESCO for its remarkable cultural landscape, this historic and captivating town is definitely worth putting aside a full day to absorb. It's one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon .

Clustered under the lip of the wooded Serra da Sintra hills, the town is dominated by the landmark Palácio Nacional , its signature twin chimneys looming over a pretty square edged with houses painted in a palette of pale pink and ochre with splashes of yellow.

Peering down over this picture postcard setting is the ancient Castelo dos Mouros , seemingly hewn out of the granite escarpment it runs along. Crowning the highest hill is the bewitching Palácio da Pena , used in the 19th century as a summer retreat by the Portuguese royal family.

Sintra offers plenty of hiking trails for the avid walker, but you'll need a stout pair of legs to conquer the demanding hills surrounding the town. The highest points of the serra offer breathtaking views across the Atlantic coastline and distant Cascais .

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sintra

Porto

With its robust granite architecture and commercial disposition, Oporto (or "Porto"), Portugal's second city, rewards visitors with a very different experience to that of the capital.

Sited at the mouth of the River Douro and blessed with a waterfront - the Ribeira - acknowledged by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Porto is a destination endowed with Baroque churches and Neoclassical buildings that number some of the best examples of their kind in the country. Of particular note are the needle-like Torre dos Clérigos and the imposing Sé , the city's cathedral.

Another landmark structure is the iconic Ponte Dom Luís I , the spectacular double-decked iron bridge that spans the Douro and connects the city with Vila Nova de Gaia . A leisurely stroll along the Ribeira delivers a tangible sense of history, where you can breath in the briny atmosphere of the place.

The river provides a scenic route to the Douro Valley , a verdant landscape of terraced hillsides dotted with hamlets and villages. A popular sightseeing option is to join one of the many cruises that ply the meandering waterway.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Porto

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Porto

Évora

Deep in the heart of the Alentejo is Évora, one of the most beguiling destinations in Portugal. Renowned for its amazing ensemble of well-preserved monuments, Évora deserves close and unhurried scrutiny.

Its medieval walls enclose centuries of history, a timeline illustrated by the impressive Templo Romano , which dates from around the second century, and the brooding but compelling 12th-century Sé (cathedral). Another tourist highlight is the 16th-century Igreja de São Francisco, with its morbid Capela dos Ossos, where the walls are lined with skulls and bones.

Capela dos Ossos

The historical significance of Évora and the unspoiled condition of its architectural treasures has won it coveted UNESCO World Heritage Site status. But you'll also be taken with the city's delightful market-town ambience and down-to-earth personality: it's a pleasure to wander and shop through its Moorish alleys; browse engaging museums; and lunch in attractive squares, where you're considered a guest rather than a tourist.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Évora

  • Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Évora

Óbidos

What does a king give his queen for a wedding present? For the lucky queens of Portugal, it was the achingly pretty town of Óbidos , a custom that prevailed for hundreds of years. These days, it's gifted to the general public, and it's certainly worth the hour's drive north out of Lisbon to reach it.

Óbidos is an artist's dream. An assortment of whitewashed cottages, cafés, and handicraft stores lining a series of narrow, cobbled streets are completely enclosed by sturdy medieval walls.

There's also the Igreja De Santa Maria , which features a wonderful interior of blue and white 17th-century azulejos (tiles).

A museum on the town's attractive square includes rare works of art by the 17th-century painter, Josefa de Óbidos.

You can walk along the top of the battlements for lovely views over the terra-cotta rooftops and the lush plains beyond. The fortifications form part of the landmark castle , whose keep looms guardian-like over the charming scene below. The castle itself is now a pousada, an upscale period hotel.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Óbidos

Tavira

Cited by many a guidebook as the most captivating town in the Algarve, Tavira does indeed tick all the scenic boxes. The Rio Gilão cuts a smile through this pleasantly laid-back town, with a Roman footbridge connecting one side with the other.

The waterfront makes for a wonderful walk, before or after you've uncovered the rest of Tavira's historic treasures. The castle walls provide glorious views across the old town and the nearby coast. You can also explore the Igreja de Santa do Castelo , the grandiose church where warrior knights are entombed.

The town also boasts a fascinating museum, the Núcleo Islâmico . Highlights include a rare 11th-century figurative vase.

An appealing option, especially during the hot summer months, is to visit the offshore Ilha de Tavira , an enormous beach that, even in high season, has plenty of room to spare. It's reached by passenger ferry from a jetty at Quatro Águas.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Tavira

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tavira & Easy Day Trips

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa

The Algarve is justly famous for its pristine coastline, and one of its natural wonders is the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. This protected marine habitat constitutes a 60-kilometer stretch of marshland, saltpans, shallow water lagoons, and sand dune islands that run from Quinta do Lago east past Faro all the way to Cacela Velha .

A haven for an abundance of flora and fauna, the park is crisscrossed by a series of nature trails with proximity to some of the animals associated with this region of Portugal. From observation hides built on the lakes, bird-watchers can spy species like the rare purple gallinule, while out on the mudflats, flocks of greater flamingo can be admired. On land, look out for the delicate sea daffodil and flourishing goosefoot and, if you're lucky, the Mediterranean chameleon.

One of the walks passes the renowned San Lorenzo golf course , itself a draw for all sorts of birdlife. The park's headquarters are near Olhão , where visitors can pick up maps and information leaflets.

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa - Layout map

The historic hilltop university in Coimbra is just one reason to visit this venerated Portuguese city. But the wealth of additional visitor attractions , much of them clustered around the Velha Universidade , classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, merits a full day's sightseeing.

The undoubted highlight of a tour of the old university campus is the stunning Biblioteca Joanina , a Baroque gem of gilded and marbled wood and frescoed ceilings. You can also climb to the top of the 18th-century clock tower for a giddy perspective over the entire area. Your exploration should include the imposing late 12th-century Se Velha (old cathedral).

Back in the old town below, there are further historic buildings to discover, among them two former convents and the Igreja de Santa Cruz , consecrated in 1131, which contains the tomb of Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques.

Elsewhere are a number of interesting museums; a botanical garden; and the fun-filled Portugal dos Pequenitos , a park containing scale models of the country's most prominent traditional buildings.

And the river itself is a pleasant diversion, with a broad esplanade flanking both banks - great territory for long, lazy walks.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Coimbra

Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela

For good reason, the highest peaks on mainland Portugal, the Serra da Estrela , are called the "star mountains." Rising to 1,993 meters above sea level at its highest point, the range, or more precisely the plateau, is a dramatic natural feature of central Portugal. It is often snowcapped in winter, when opportunistic skiers take advantage of what is probably the shortest ski season in Europe.

Otherwise, the granite escarpments and glacier-cut valleys are classic hiking country, with a network of signed long-distance paths and tracks covering the terrain. Along the way, walkers can take in some absolutely stunning countryside and absorb the traditional character of the place, epitomized in villages like Linhares and Valezim .

The mountains are home to the Serra da Estrela sheepdog, a breed unique to Portugal. You are bound to come across proud locals walking one of these powerful but mild-mannered dogs. The area is also known for the deliciously rich and creamy Serra cheese - arguably Portugal's finest cheese. Look for it on sale in the stores that serve many a local village.

Aerial view of the star-shaped fortress in Elvas

The heavy, star-shaped walls that make up the military fortifications surrounding Elvas are among the best-preserved examples of military architecture in Europe. In fact this frontier town, set on a hilltop in the Alentejo, 15 kilometers from the border with Spain, is so remarkable for its mid-17th-century defences that UNESCO has declared Elvas a World Heritage Site.

It's a long drive east (and should perhaps be combined with a visit to the nearby Spanish city of Badajoz ), but those making the effort to reach this fascinating destination will be rewarded with a truly imposing circuit of walls, deep moats, and star-shaped ramparts. Within this impregnable ring lies a warren of steep, cobbled streets and a number of worthy visitor attractions, notably the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Consolação , whose nondescript façade belies a truly glittering interior.

A castle, set on the north wall, affords fine views over the area and takes in two smaller outlying forts and the Aqueduto da Amoreira , the town's impressive 16th-century aqueduct.

Elvas Map - Tourist Attractions

It's fitting that the old center of Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, given that this noble city was once the capital of Portugal. That was during the 12th century, when the country's first king, Afonso Henriques, proclaimed this northern city the birthplace of the nation.

A hugely evocative place, Guimarães is the location of a number of important historic monuments, not least the castle , where Afonso was reputedly baptized. The equally significant Paço dos Duques , the royal palace, houses an engaging museum, although the Museu de Alberto Sampaio , which is in the Romanesque cloister of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, on Largo da Oliveira, has a no less outstanding collection of artifacts.

Actually, Guimarães's famous main square appears straight out of the Middle Ages, with its elaborately carved granite facades; ornate statuary; and the Padrão do Salado , a 14th-century shrine standing in front of the monastery.

After re-living all this history, you should browse the medieval quarter by exploring on foot the maze of narrow cobbled streets past several wonderfully preserved old town houses.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Guimarães

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guimarães

Aerial view of Seixal, Madeira

The Madeira Archipelago is a set of four volcanic islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa that have long drawn visitors to their sunny shores. Known by the nickname "Pearl of the Atlantic", the islands are striking, with rugged coastlines, razorback mountains, and subtropical vegetation.

Discover the wonders of the islands, where gastronomy reigns supreme. Indulge in the freshest vegetables and seafood, thanks to the unique microclimate and abundance of the ocean. The capital city of Funchal is a true gem , full of charm and excitement. Wander through its cobblestone streets, admire the old homes and vibrant public gardens, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the harbor.

A delight for outdoor adventurers, hiking trails (or levadas as they are known locally), follow historic irrigation channels to dramatic lookouts. Other more traditional hiking trails wind their way back into the mountains through dense forests to hidden waterfalls.

Although the islands may conjure up visions of golden sand beaches, be aware that Madeira has black pebbly shorelines that are not conducive to strolling in your bare feet or laying out on a towel.

Madeira is a popular port of call for cruise ships and can also be easily accessed by plane in less than two hours from Lisbon or less than four hours from the United Kingdom.

Travelers often ask if they should go to the Azores or Madeira. One big advantage Madeira has over the Azores is its mild year-round climate due to its southern position. While the Azores are a great summer destination, winters are cool and wet. Madeira's daytime highs in winter are around 20 degrees Celcius, and upper 20s in summer.

Braga

Braga is one of Portugal's grandest cities. Located in the north of the country, the destination has a long history as a religious and commercial center. To wander Braga's historic quarter is to enter a predominantly 18th-century world of handsome mansions, imposing churches, and striking palaces . A number of spruce parks and gardens break up the austere granite veneer that characterizes much of the architecture.

Begun in the 11th century, Braga's cathedral, the Sé , is an obvious visitor attraction and symbolizes the fact that the city remains the ecclesiastical capital of Portugal. The city's central square is a wonderfully atmospheric place to linger, perhaps in one of the cafés housed under the arcades. The adjoining 14th-century Torre de Menagem is all that remains of Braga's original fortifications.

A worthwhile diversion is the Bom Jesus do Monte, the spectacular religious sanctuary located 1.5 kilometers east of the city. Pack a picnic and expect large crowds at weekends.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Braga

  • Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Braga & Easy Day Trips

Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês

Portugal's only national park, the magnificent Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês is one of the country's greatest natural wonders. Occupying more than 700 square kilometers in Portugal's northeast Minho region, near the border with Spain, the rocky terrain encompasses dramatic mountain scenery; lush, yawning valleys; tumbling waterfalls; and deep, crystal-clear lakes.

Traditional villages, hamlets cut from granite and even an old spa resort, Caldas do Gerês , add personality to this bleak but beautiful landscape.

Wolves and wild boar still roam the park's more remote regions, while above, golden eagles spiral effortlessly on mighty thermals rising over dramatic peaks.

The park is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Waymarked trails offer plenty of hiking opportunities, from two-hour romps to day treks. Scattered rural guesthouses and a few designated camping sites provide basic accommodation, though there are hotels in larger towns.

Spring is an ideal time to visit, with the countryside already bursting into full bloom. But even in midwinter, this outstanding destination remains a very special place.

Peneda-Geres National Park - Layout map

The most remote city in Portugal is also one of its most enticing because you literally do have to travel to the farthest corner of the country to get to Bragança . The old town is especially compelling in that it's completely enclosed by a ribbon of imposing granite walls.

By exploring this walled Cidadela , or "citadel," which dates from 1130, you can glean a tangible sense of the Middle Ages. The ancient streets are lined with squat, whitewashed cottages, and the church of Santa Maria features a striking painted ceiling. But it's the brooding castle and its sturdy keep that really catches the imagination.

Another highlight is the Domus Municipalis , an odd pentagonal council chamber that dates from the 15th century. It's the only surviving example of Romanesque civic architecture in Portugal. Because of the distances involved, it's worth planning an overnight in Bragança, and while the Cidadela is the obvious attraction, the outlying Parque Natural de Montesinho , a 70,000-hectare reserve lying between the city and the border with Spain, is an enticing alternative.

Mértola

The Alentejo has its fair share of hilltop towns, but few are as appealing as Mértola . Furthermore, this whitewashed smudge of a community sits over the River Guadiana, and the scene is quite idyllic. But what really sets this destination apart is the fact that the whole place has been designated a Vila Museu - a museum site.

Mértola's origins date back to the Phoenicians, who created a bustling river port, a facility later used by the Romans and then the Moors. This diverse and colorful timeline is the basis for the cluster of excellent mini-museums dotted in and around the old town, with each one devoted to a separate epoch.

Helping to illustrate the Arab's residency is the landmark 13th-century castle strategically perched on the top of a hill. The views from the keep command a glorious panorama of the surrounding countryside.

The castle grounds feature an excavated site, where you can admire evidence of Moorish, Roman, and Christian occupation. Not surprisingly, Mértola's church, sited just outside the castle walls, used to be a mosque.

Lagos

One of the premier resort towns in Portugal, Lagos basks in the warmth of the Algarve sun and is the preferred vacation destination for thousands of visitors, who flock to the country's south coast every year.

Known for the fabulous beaches that flank the town either side of its international marina, Lagos is also home to some truly magical rock formations, sandstone cliffs that tower over a series of sea caves and weirdly shaped grottoes. If you can lure yourself away from the sand, these can be visited as part of a fun-filled sightseeing cruise, among numerous other water sports options.

Back on terra firma, Lagos' cultural draws include the remarkable Museu Municipal and its adjoining Igreja de Santo António , the interior of which is one of the most lavishly decorated in the entire region.

And if you appreciate sunsets, you'll love Ponta da Piedade : the lighthouse is a favorite spot to watch the sun dip below the Atlantic horizon.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Lagos

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lagos

Ponta Delgada's city hall in the Azores

The Azores archipelago is a hidden gem of nine volcanic islands located in the mid-Atlantic. They boast a breathtaking landscape of verdant mountains, meandering rivers, thermal hot springs, crystal-clear crater lakes, and magnificent coastlines.

It's a nature lover's playground with an almost endless array of things to see and do ranging from terrestrial pursuits like birdwatching, hiking, road biking, canyoning, and visiting volcanoes, right through to aquatic options including diving, swimming, fishing, and whale watching.

Layer on top of all that the warm and hospitable Azorean culture of enjoying dining, festivals, and even bullfighting, and it's a heady mix of fun. The epicenter of the good times is the capital city of Ponta Delgada with its lively waterfront, the historical quarter full of beautiful 18th- and 19th-century buildings, and the 16th-century Forte de São Brás.

The Azores are easily reached via a two-hour flight from Lisbon. It's also possible to do a free stopover here from North America on your way to mainland Europe via Azores Airlines. The Azores are also a major cruise stop for trans-Atlantic and European operators.

Faro's Old Town

The largest city in the Algarve and the regional capital, Faro has more to offer the visitor than often meets the eye. With its international airport, imposing shopping mall, and sea of concrete high-rises, first impressions are of a nondescript urban sprawl. But peel away the modern veneer, and this is a city with lots to see and much to tell.

Faro's Cidade Velha (Old Town) is the historic core and where tourists should head for. Ringed in part by 16 th -century walls built on Roman foundations, the Old Town's centerpiece is the impressive Sé (cathedral) . Dating back to the 13 th century, this venerable building boasts a dazzling Baroque interior of gilded and lacquered woodcarvings, inlaid marble, and fine azulejo tiling. A highlight is climbing the narrow staircase to the top of the medieval tower , where you can admire sweeping views across the quarter and the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa.

Other Old Town standouts include the fascinating Museu Municipal de Faro , itself set within the hallowed confines of the serene Convent of Our Lady of the Assumption. Beyond the walls is Igreja do Carmo . The church is known for its spooky Capela dos Ossos ( Bone Chapel ), lined with the skulls and bones of more than 1,000 monks.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Faro

Traditional boats on the canal in Aveiro

Not for nothing is Aveiro called the " Venice of Portugal ." This attractive city set in the country's Beira Litoral region lies on the edge of a system of coastal lagoons and is crisscrossed by a series of canals that have become the destination's distinguishing feature. Colorful gondola-like boats called barcos moliceiros , traditionally used to harvest seaweed but today used as novel sightseeing vessels, navigate these narrow waterways.

The city is famed for its Art Nouveau architecture - embellishing the picturesque waterside are dozens of shops, restaurants, and houses featuring this early 20 th -century decorative style. In fact, there's a museum dedicated to this artistic expression, the Museu Arte Nova.

But for a broader picture of the city's culture and heritage, spend time browsing the Museu de Aveiro . Occupying the 15 th -century Convento de Jesus , the museum's fascinating collection includes exhibits relating to Santa Joana, a daughter of King Afonso V who lived in the convent from 1472 until her death in 1489.

Luring visitors beyond the city center is the Vista Alegre porcelain works. Established in 1842 and a hallmark of fine craftsmanship, Vista Alegre exports its products around the world. A museum, the founder's palace, and a shop selling discounted merchandise are all worth discovering.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Aveiro

Beja Castle

Rural sun-drenched Beja is the main town of the Baixa Alentejo (Lower Altenjo). Commanding a strategic position in the center of a vast region of golden plains, Beja was founded as Pax Julia by Julius Caesar in 48 BC and grew into an important and prosperous city.

Roman influence is still evident today in and around the destination, notably at the Ruinas Romanas de São Cucufate, the ruins of a villa complex located to the north of Beja.

Most of Beja's monuments, however, are clustered together in the historic old town. A rewarding introduction to the city's illustrious past is to visit the Museu Regional . Housed in the impressive Convento de Nossa Senhora da Conceição , the museum is noted for its Roman artifacts and Flemish paintings. History buffs should also spend time in the Museu Visigótico , set outside the castle walls within the Visigoth-era Igreja de Santo Amaro.

The castle itself is always worth a detour, not least for its 40-meter-high keep, the Torre de Menagem. You can climb a steep flight of stairs to reach the top and admire a truly inspiring panorama.

Parque Natural da Arrábida

The Arrábida Natural Park is just 40 kilometers south of Lisbon but a world away from the urban clamor that is the Portuguese capital.

Hugging a wedge of coastline between the city of Setúbal and the town of Sesimbra , this verdant swathe of scrub and woodland blankets the craggy slopes of the Serra da Arrábida mountain range, a stunningly beautiful environment separated from the Atlantic Ocean by ribbons of golden sand.

The park is a haven for wildlife and perfect for biking, hiking, and other outdoor pursuits . Meanwhile, the truly adventurous can indulge in coasteering - climbing, walking, jumping, and swimming Arrábida's rocky coastline.

In fact, the coast is dotted with a number of superb cove beaches. Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo is especially scenic, framed as it is by outcrops of limestone rock formations and ideal for swimming, diving, or snorkeling.

Inland, cultural curiosity can be satisfied by advance booking a tour of the Convento da Arrábida . Hidden away in dense shrubland, this enigmatic convent was built by Franciscan monks in 1542. Tours take in the monastery building, gardens, shrines, and cells.

To recuperate from a busy day's sightseeing, head for the achingly pretty harbor village of Portinho da Arrábida . Here, you'll find a cluster of quaint waterfront restaurants that face the crystalline waters of the Bay of Setúbal.

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Planning Your Portugal Itinerary: Once you have figured out what you want to see and the places you want to visit, it's time to start thinking about a routing and what's practical. Depending on the amount of time you have, you may want to focus on just one or two areas, or you may decide to see it all. For help planning, see our article on Where to Go in Portugal: 7 Great Itineraries . If you simply want to relax on your vacation, see our list of the Best Holiday Resorts in Portugal.

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10 Best Cities To Visit in Portugal on Vacation

A Portuguese vacation should be on any family’s European must-visit list. It’s a beautiful country, with delicious food, gorgeous sites, and friendly people. With three international airports located on mainland Portugal, it’s fairly easy to access from most US destinations.

Although it is a small country, there are many great towns, small villages, and cities to see while you are there. So, you’ll need to do a little research in advance to figure out which are the best towns in Portugal to visit during your vacation.

Disclosure: My first visit to Portugal was complimentary as part of a media trip with Martinhal Hotels, and I paid full price for my second trip. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase through one of these may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Best Cities to Visit in Portugal on Vacation

You’ll probably want to include the Portuguese capital city of Lisbon in your vacation plans. It’s the largest city in Portugal and one of the major cities in Europe.

Lisbon also has the largest of the international airports in the country, so you’ll typically be able to get the best flights to and from there. There’s so much to see and do in Lisbon , and there are also plenty of day trips from Lisbon if you decide to base your vacation there.

While you are there, it’s a good idea to book a guided tour so you can get an overview of the city and learn more about its rich history. There are lots of options, including tuk-tuk and tram tours. We also enjoyed a yacht tour of the Lisbon Tagus River waterfront.

See tours in Lisbon here .

We’ve stayed in several hotels in Lisbon, and have loved them. There are lots of options, from smaller, more boutique hotels to international chains . Here are three we’d recommend:

Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Luxury Hotel and Apartments – I had the opportunity to tour this hotel before it opened, several years ago. It’s a family-friendly hotel in the trendy Chiado neighborhood and offers luxury apartments that are specifically designed for families. If you are looking for a little more space, this can be a great choice.

The Olissippo Lapa Palace Hotel – we stayed here on our last night in Portugal, and I wish we had more time there. The home of a former palace, this hilltop hotel offers some rooms with views of the Tagus River. It also has a beautiful lagoon-style pool which is a surprising oasis for a city hotel. We enjoyed spending an afternoon at this beautiful pool.

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade – we spent three nights at this city hotel, located on a luxurious and swanky street in downtown Lisbon. It offers several restaurants and bars, including a trendy rooftop bar with beautiful night views of the city. We felt it was a great location for our Lisbon vacation.

We started our most recent Portuguese vacation in the gorgeous, historic city of Porto, located in Northern Portugal. There is an international airport in Porto, and we were able to fly from Boston to Porto with a layover at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal .

Porto offers so much to do, and is a beautiful city. We spent four nights there, and I feel like we could have spent our entire vacation there. It’s got a hip, trendy vibe, with lots of boutiques and cafes, among the historic attractions and narrow, cobblestone streets.

During our trip to Porto, we stayed at the Intercontinental Porto . It’s a modern hotel located in a historic building – the former Palacio das Cardosas.

From there, we were able to take a short walk to most of the historic attractions, including the Douro River waterfront. For the places we weren’t able to walk to, we found Uber easy to use in town. If you decide to drive, keep in mind that there are some very hilly, narrow streets that can be a challenge to navigate.

One of the highlights of our trip was the Porto Bridge Climb , a relatively mild adventure that takes place on the Arrábida Bridge. Although you’ll be harnessed, there are stairs to climb.

Across the Douro River from Porto is the town of Gaia. Known for its wine and port cellars, Gaia is a great place to visit for the day when you are staying in Porto. There are many different restaurants and wine cellar tours (along with wine tasting) – we recommend visiting at least one!

Want to take in some gorgeous views of the Douro River and of Porto? The Gaia Cable Car runs year-round, is about a 5-minute ride, and offers aerial views of the area. One-way or round-trip tickets are available.

Douro Valley

Located about an hour and a half from the Porto city center is the Douro Valley. The wine country region of Portugal is absolutely stunning, with green rolling hills and a winding river.

During our visit, we kayaked along the Douro River, and then visited Quinta da Pacheca, a vineyard where guests can stay in a converted wine barrel.

Be sure to try port wine, which the region is famous for. In fact, wineries are unable to use the “port” label if the wine doesn’t come from the Douro region.

Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is both a town and a municipality. While it’s most popular for the bright and colorful Pena Palace, there’s so much more to do and see in Sintra.

Some of the other attractions include the Castle of the Moors (Moorish Castle), the Sintra National Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira (located near the city center, with Knights Templar symbols).

While visiting Sintra is definitely possible on a day trip , I would recommend arriving early. It’s one of the most popular destinations, especially in the summer months. Pena Palace especially gets busy throughout the day. Don’t miss visiting the small town of Sintra, a beautiful historic town with shops, cafes, and more to explore.

The very first place I visited in Portugal is Cascais. It’s a lovely resort town and former fishing village, with beautiful beaches, shops, resorts, outdoor cafes, and more. It’s a quick distance from Lisbon, so it’s an easy day trip. Or, there are plenty of luxurious resorts where you can stay.

Cascais is located on the Portuguese Riviera, which offers some of the most beautiful beaches outside of southern Portugal.

The historic city of Evora, located southwest of Lisbon in the center of Portugal, offers some popular attractions. These include the Roman Temple of Évora, located in the historic center of the city, in addition to the Chapel of Bones (a 16th-century temple with an interior lined with skulls and bones). Evora is about halfway between Lisbon and the Spanish border.

The town of Sagres is located in the most southwestern point of Europe, in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is home to several beautiful beaches, with an active surf community. During my first trip to Portugal, I stayed at the Martinhal Sagres Family Beach Resort , a large, luxurious resort made especially for families that is the perfect place for a family to relax.

It can be a little challenging to get to the Algarve if you fly into Lisbon. Options include rental cars (for a road trip from Lisbon – about 3 hours), public transportation (trains), or private transportation. There is also an international airport in Faro, which is east of Sagres but still in the Algarve region. However, I’d recommend visiting during your trip to Portugal because it has some of the best beaches in the area.

During our most recent visit, we stayed in Carvoeiro in the Algarve. This area offers beaches, resorts, shops, and restaurants, and is famous for the Carvoeiro Caves. I’d definitely recommend going on an Algarve cave tour during your time in the area – it’s such a unique experience and a fun thing to see.

During our trip, we stayed at a beautiful, clifftop resort, right in Carvoeiro. The Tivoli Carvoeiro is a luxury resort offering a spa, restaurants, an outdoor pool, and gorgeous views of the natural beauty of the ocean and cliffs.

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is located on the archipelago of the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean (on São Miguel Island ) and is the capital city of the Azores region. The Azores can be one of the easiest European vacations for families, due to their proximity to the East Coast of the US. It’s a relatively short flight.

Although I haven’t been to the Azores (except for a flight layover), they are definitely on my list. These beautiful islands are known for their gorgeous hydrangeas, and also offer many things to see and do.

Have you been to Portugal? Which city or town in Portugal is your favorite?

Frequently Asked Questions

Like the rest of Europe, summer is a popular time in Europe. We enjoyed our August vacation, although we were lucky because it wasn’t too hot. Late spring or early fall would be less busy and should still have nice weather.

The Azores are located about 1,000 miles from the mainland of Portugal. Some flights from the northeast of the US have a layover in the Azores before continuing on to Lisbon.

Lisbon is the largest airport and is likely to have the most direct flights. However, if you want to go to Porto and the Algarve, you’ll need to travel North and then South.

The post 10 Best Cities To Visit in Portugal on Vacation appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

A Portuguese vacation should be on any family's European must-visit list. It's a beautiful country, with delicious food, gorgeous sites, and friendly people. Here are the best towns in Portugal to visit.

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  1. 22 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

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  2. Ten Best Places To Visit In Portugal

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  3. The 20 BEST Cities in Portugal + What to Expect There (with photos & tips)

    best cities to visit in portugal in july

  4. Conquer the Historic Villages of Portugal!

    best cities to visit in portugal in july

  5. 19 Most Beautiful Towns & Cities to Visit in Portugal

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  6. The Best Cities To Visit In Portugal

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COMMENTS

  1. Portugal in July: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun

    Check them out at the Lisbon Cruise Terminal from July 2 to 5, and enjoy a jaunt around the city center before or after. Visit some of the best beaches in Europe. There are so many great beaches in Portugal, and July is a fantastic time to visit. With 352 Blue Flag beaches named in Portugal in 2019, you'll never run out of vacation choices.

  2. Portugal in July; a guide for Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve in July

    July is a wonderful month for a beach holiday to the Algarve. The weather is glorious, every activity and sight is full open, but there are not the crowds or hecticness of August. Porto is outstanding for a city break or holiday. The city has many interesting sights, there are many fascinating day trips, and there are even sandy beaches close ...

  3. Portugal Itinerary: Where to Go in Portugal by Rick Steves

    Rick's Best Two-Week Portugal Trip (by Car) Day 4: Lisbon, or side-trip to Sintra by train (sleep in Lisbon) Day 5: Morning in Lisbon; in the afternoon, pick up car and drive 3 hours to the Algarve (sleep in Salema) Day 7: Side trip to Cape Sagres and more beach time (sleep in Salema) Day 8: Drive 30 minutes to Lagos, then, later in the day ...

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    Best for hiking and alpine activities in winter. The Serra da Estrela - Portugal's highest mountain range - is the place to come for rugged scenery, outdoor adventures, and glimpses of a vanishing traditional way of life. Hikers can choose from an expansive network of high-country trails with stupendous vistas, and the region's ...

  5. July in Portugal: Weather and Event Guide

    On average, 0.67 inches of rain falls in July in Vila Real, where you have more than 14 hours of daylight for exploring. Average high: 83 F / 28 C. Average low: 58 F / 14 C. You may not find any organized festivals in the Douro Valley in July. But the beauty and cultural significance of this wine-growing region, one of the world's oldest, is ...

  6. Portugal in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    July marks the start of peak summer season in Portugal, and just chilling on the coast appears more enticing than ever, with refreshing Atlantic waves to dive into, breezes taking the edge off the heat and ice-cream close by. The major cities and resorts are humming, and festivals are bringing a buzz to all corners of the country. If you like things lively, now's the time to go.

  7. 10 of the best places to visit in Portugal, chosen by readers

    Two springs form pools of crystal-clear spring water for families to bathe in and picnic around, amid a glorious backdrop of trees. Alte's pièce de résistance is its waterfall, Vigário, which ...

  8. Portugal Weather in July: Travel Tips for First-Timers

    4.Algarve — Have Fun in the Hot Summer. Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal, and it gets hot in July. The average daily highs reach 29°C (84°F), and with the 61% humidity, the average feels like 31°C (88°F). You could bask on the beaches with 12 hours of bright sunshine since skies are usually clear.

  9. 19 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

    Saint George's Castle or Castelo de São Jorge in the Alfama neighborhood of Lisbon is the number one tourist attraction in Portugal. The castle receives over 2 million visitors every year. This popular attraction is open all year round and costs $10 depending on the current exchange rate.

  10. 20 Best Places to Visit in Portugal

    Lagoa das Sete Cidades. dangrytsku/Getty Images. The majesty of São Miguel never ceases to amaze. Topping the list for many travelers visiting the volcanic main island in the Azores archipelago ...

  11. Portugal in July: Weather, Tips and More I Bookmundi

    Compared to Lisbon, Porto sees relatively cooler temperatures, making the city more preferable during the summer. July is not just the hottest month of the year but also the driest and the sunniest. Average temperatures in the country shoot up to as high as 28°C during the daytime, while rainfall is scant (no more than 4mm).

  12. Best cities and towns in Portugal to visit 2023

    Best cities and towns in Portugal, from the capital of Lisbon and World Heritage site Porto to resort locations in the Algarve and the fishing town of Cascais ... Friday 21 July 2023 13:06 BST ...

  13. Best Cities and Regions to Visit in Portugal

    Below you will find the best cities and regions to visit in Portugal, including Lisbon, with its fado music and its medieval Alfama district, and Porto, with its world-famous port wine. Portugal is a relatively small country and much of it is rural. As a result, it doesn't have many sprawling metropolises for you to visit.

  14. 19 Most Beautiful Towns & Cities to Visit in Portugal

    Porto. 3. Coimbra. The beautiful city of Coimbra, located at the foot of the Mondego River, is one of Portugal's largest cities. This former capital of Portugal is also home to the oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world.

  15. 10 Days in Portugal: The Perfect Portugal Itinerary

    Day 4: Coimbra. Journeying south, your next stop is the city of Coimbra. The capital city of Portugal during the Middle Ages, Coimbra's greatest claim to fame is its distinguished university. One day is the perfect amount of time to see the city's main sights before moving on.

  16. 10 Best Cities In Portugal To Visit This Summer

    Try the Queijada, a traditional Portuguese pastry from Sintra made with eggs, milk, cheese, flour, and sugar. 5. Porto. Porto Douro River. Located along the Douro River, Porto is one of the major cities in Portugal. It's favored for centuries-old churches, cobblestone streets, and lip-smackingly good cuisine.

  17. The 27 best places to visit in July

    The best July destinations for nature and ideal weather. 1. Madeira and the Azores, Portugal. Pride of Madeira (Shutterstock) July is one of the hottest months of the year in Portugal, with average temperatures of 24°C during the day.

  18. The Best Destinations To Visit In Portugal

    Pick your table, load up on sardines and octopus salad and graze away the days until late-night escapades in Lisbon beckon you back. 10. Algarve, for a warm weather escape. The Algarve is one of the best places to go if you like your weather warm, your hiking adventurous and your beaches trendy.

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    14. Peneda-Geres National Park. Lying in the northwest of the country on the border with Spain, Peneda-Geres is a lovely place to visit and is Portugal's only national park. Established in 1971, it protects precious landscapes and ecosystems as well as countless villages set in scenic and secluded spots.

  20. 15 Best Cities to Visit in Portugal (+Map)

    15. Faro. Located in the idyllic Algarve region, Faro is a great city from which to explore the delights of this beautiful and untamed part of Portugal. Numerous beaches, sea cliffs and picturesque rocky alcoves dot the coast and there are a plethora of sites just waiting to be discovered with some stunning views also to be had.

  21. 1-Week Portugal Itinerary: Where to Spend 7 Days in Portugal

    Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon. This 1-Week Itinerary in Portugal starts in the capital of Lisbon. Many cities around the world fly directly to Lisbon. You can fly directly to Lisbon from many US airports, including Miami, Boston, Washington, San Francisco, and New York. One of the oldest cities in western Europe, Lisbon has seen a boom in tourism due ...

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    The beautifully paved streets, historical feel, and annual cultural events make Tomar one of the best places to visit in Portugal. 8. Sintra. Balate Dorin/Shutterstock. Enthralling Sintra is a UNESCO gem that attracts tourists from all parts of the globe due to its incredible cultural landscape.

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    In between, you can amble across handsome tree-lined squares; stroll along broad, riverfront esplanades; or take in jaw-dropping panoramas from the various miradouros, or viewpoints, dotted across the city. 2. Sintra. Sintra. Enchanting Sintra is one of the gems in Portugal's glittering sightseeing crown.

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    A Portuguese vacation should be on any family's European must-visit list. It's a beautiful country, with delicious food, gorgeous sites, and friendly people. Here are the best towns in Portugal to ...

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    In a world where sustainability and natural beauty increasingly dominate travellers' choices, Portugal's Praia da Falésia emerges as the crown jewel, topping Tripadvisor's prestigious Best of the ...