4 destinations in Portugal you must visit
Portugal is the perfect holiday destination. It offers an eclectic mix of captivating historic sights, golden beaches and mountainous peaks. Finding the right location in this enthralling part of Europe depends on your own interests.
Want to find out more? Here, we take a look at four of our top Portugal picks.
Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is built on seven hills and set on the banks of the Tagus River. It’s made up of winding streets and picture postcard buildings painted in vibrant reds and yellows and soft pastels.
Lisbon holidays provide plenty of opportunities to take in some of the most important landmarks in the country. One example of this is the Belém Tower, a 16th-century monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a gateway into the city and also as a protective measure against enemy ships in the 1500s.
Nearby, the Jerónimos Monastery is another site that has links to Portugal’s maritime legacy. It’s here that Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was laid to rest. It’s also a draw for those who want to see intricate Manueline architecture up close.
Bairro Alto brings you right back to the present. This is a lively quarter known for its nightlife. Here, you can experience Fado music performances or enjoy Portuguese fare at one of the many eateries – don’t forget to try pastel de nata, a custard tart that’s become synonymous with Lisbon. If shopping is on your agenda, Avenida da Liberdade offers high-end stores and boutiques.
While you’re in the city, you can also hop aboard Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams or head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views across the capital.
Madeira
Madeira, an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, is a major draw for nature enthusiasts and sunseekers alike. Known as the ‘floating garden of the Atlantic’, Madeira is famous for its lush landscapes and mild climate.
The capital, Funchal, is filled with cobbled streets and vibrant street art. Visit the Madeira Story Centre, a museum located in Funchal’s old town, or you can taste local wines in traditional wine cellars.
While you’re in Funchal, you can also try one of the quirkier attractions – toboggan rides. Here, visitors glide down steep streets in wicker sledges.
Seeking an adventure? You can take a trip to the volcanic natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz or a hike through Madeira’s levadas, which are ancient irrigation channels that crisscross the island.
Porto
Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and has an old-world elegance and laid-back vibe. Perched along the Douro River, Porto is known for its Port wine, which can be sampled at cellars across the city.
The Ribeira district is a maze of narrow streets filled with colourful buildings, cafes, and waterfront restaurants. For the best views, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to the Jardim do Morro, a park that provides you with sweeping panoramas of the city.
While you’re in the city, head to the São Francisco Church, a Gothic religious site with Baroque interiors. This artistic flair can also be found in Porto’s art scene.
Faro
Faro is a destination that deserves exploration. Its historic old town, encircled by medieval walls, is a journey back in time. The Gothic Faro Cathedral, with its views from the bell tower, is a standout attraction.
There are pedestrianised streets lined with shops and restaurants where you can try local dishes like cataplana, a seafood stew. You’ll also find the Ria Formosa Natural Park here. This network of lagoons and sandbanks offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and boat tours.
Faro’s also close to pristine beaches, including the beautiful golden sands of Pria de Faro and the contrasting Ilha da Barreta, a tranquil, remote beach on a tropical island to the south of Faro.
Ready to book your holiday in Portugal? Where will you go?