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Top 5 Places To Visit In Portugal

Best Places To Visit In Portugal 2023

By AffiliCorePublished about a year ago 8 min read
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Top 5 Places To Visit In Portugal
Photo by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash

1. Lisbon

Book your trip to Lisbon!

Lisbon, the nation's capital, is a vibrant and captivating city that should be on every traveler's bucket list. Its picturesque open plazas, stunning cathedrals, and small cafes make it one of Europe's most charming destinations. With welcoming residents, colorful buildings, and sunny weather, Lisbon offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

Exploring Lisbon's historic core is like taking a journey back in time. It's a heritage exemplified by celebrated visitor attractions, such as the mighty Castelo de São Jorge and Alfama, the oldest part of Lisbon. Start by visiting Belem Tower and Ribeira Palace, which once housed the Portuguese royal family. Take a stroll through the city's beautiful parks, such as Eduardo VII Park, and visit the modernist Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts.

From Bifana to Bacalhau, the city is a fantastic place to sample the best delicacies from all over the country. You'll fall in love with the Pasteis de Nata, a local favorite invented by Belem Monks hundreds of years ago.

Plus, if you ever get bored in this busy city, there are many fun day trips from Lisbon to consider. Whether you want to explore the nearby beaches or visit the charming towns of Sintra and Cascais, there's always something to see and do in and around Lisbon.

Book your trip to Lisbon!

Picture: https://www.back-packer.org/sights-things-to-do-lisbon-portugal/

2. Porto

Book your trip to Porto!

Known around the globe for its port wine, Porto is the country's second-largest city located right along the Douro River. The city offers a mix of stunning architecture and a wealth of art. Will explore why someone should visit Porto, what to see and do, and the city's uniqueness.

Porto offers visitors an eclectic mix of things to see and do. Wander over the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset for beautiful views over the city and the Douro River. Line up at the iconic Livaria Lello bookstore for the perfect Instagram shot. Check out the baroque interiors of the São Francisco Church and the 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, which housed an early stock market. Porto is also one of the best places to visit in the entire world for wine tasting. Specifically, port wine is made in this region, and Porto has lots of port wine cellars to try the specialty.

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

In addition to sightseeing, Porto offers plenty of other exciting things to see and do. Distinguished museums and concert halls offer quality arts and culture. The traditional marketplace of Mercado do Bolhão presents choices of fresh fish, vegetables, fruits, and handicrafts. Boat cruises on the river and walks along the garden-lined esplanade of the Foz bestow breathtaking views of the city's natural beauty.

Book your trip to Porto!

Picture: https://www.kimkim.com/c/immersive-portugal-porto-the-north-12-days

3. Madeira

Book your trip to Madeira!

Madeira is a stunning archipelago that is located off the northwest coast of Africa. Known as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," it is renowned for its natural beauty, mild climate, and delicious cuisine. If you are looking for a unique vacation destination that offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, then Madeira should be on your list. Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting this wonderful island.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Madeira, regardless of your interests. Nature lovers will be thrilled by the island's rugged coastline, verdant forests, and stunning mountains. One of the top attractions is the Levada Walks, a network of hiking trails that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes on the island. You can also take a cable car ride to the top of Monte, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island.

Culture enthusiasts will love exploring the historic city of Funchal, the island's capital. The city is known for its charming architecture, colorful markets, and museums that showcase Madeira's rich history and culture. Don't miss the chance to sample some of the island's delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and unique Madeiran wines.

If you're looking for adventure, there are plenty of options on the island. You can try your hand at surfing, paragliding, or even scuba diving to explore the island's underwater world. You can also take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

Madeira is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, you'll find it here. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless activities, Madeira is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape and explore. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this beautiful island paradise.

Book your trip to Madeira!

Picture: https://www.tomashavel.com/blog/majestic-madeira

4. Braga

Book your trip to Braga!

Located in the northwestern region of Portugal, Braga is a charming city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. As one of the oldest cities in Portugal, Braga has a lot to offer for visitors looking for a unique and authentic travel experience. We will explore why Braga should be on your travel list and what you should see and do while there.

Braga is a city that can be explored on foot, and there are many attractions worth seeing. One of the most popular sights is the Bom Jesus do Monte, a stunning Baroque sanctuary that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Visitors can climb the stairs or take a funicular to reach the top, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Another must-see attraction is the Sé Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral features an impressive Gothic façade, as well as beautiful chapels and altars inside. The cloisters are also worth a visit, with their tranquil gardens and intricate tile work.

For a taste of Braga's Roman history, head to the city's archaeological museum. Here, visitors can view artifacts from the Roman period, including mosaics, coins, and sculptures. Other notable museums in Braga include the Biscainhos Museum, which showcases the city's decorative arts, and the D. Diogo de Sousa Museum, which focuses on archaeology and ethnography. You can also take a stroll through the historic city center, which is home to several charming squares, fountains, and gardens.

Braga is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or culture, there are plenty of attractions to explore. Cities' landmarks are sure to impress. And with its lively atmosphere and charming streets, the city is the perfect destination for those looking to experience Portugal's unique blend of old and new.

Book your trip to Braga!

Picture: https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/destinations/braga/

5. Lagos

Book your trip to Lagos!

Lagos is a charming coastal town located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. With its pristine beaches, stunning cliffs, and vibrant nightlife, Lagos is a destination that has something to offer everyone. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the town's rich history and culture, or enjoy some outdoor activities, Lagos has it all.

Lagos is most famous for its stunning beaches, which are among the best in Europe. The Meia Praia beach is a popular spot that stretches for almost five kilometers, offering visitors plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun. The Dona Ana beach, on the other hand, is known for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. You can also explore the famous Ponta da Piedade cliffs, which offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Apart from the beaches, Lagos has plenty of other attractions that are worth visiting. One of the most popular is the Lagos Old Town, which is full of narrow streets and historic buildings. The town's walls and gates date back to the 16th century and provide a glimpse into Portugal's rich past. The old town also has several museums, such as the Museum of Sacred Art and the Lagos Regional Museum.

Lagos is also a great place for outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and surfing. The Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve is a great spot for bird watching and hiking, while the Lagos Marina is the perfect place to rent a kayak or take a boat tour. Surfing enthusiasts can head to the nearby beaches of Praia da Luz and Sagres, which are known for their excellent surf breaks.

With its stunning beaches, historic old town, and abundance of outdoor activities, Lagos is a must-visit destination in Portugal.

Book your trip to Lagos!

Picture: https://www.travel-in-portugal.com/lagos

Looking for information about the best places to visit in Portugal? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:

Do they speak English in Portugal?

English is widely spoken in Portugal, though it's not the first language for most people. Nevertheless, due to the country's popularity as a tourist destination, English is the language of choice for many.

What is the best part of Portugal to visit?

Many would argue that the Algarve region is the best part of Portugal to visit. With its many beaches, beautiful hotels, and delicious cuisine, the Algarve has something to offer for every type of traveler.

What should I not miss in Portugal?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination in Portugal, with its charming streets, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene. Additionally, be sure not to miss out on attending one of the many festivals held throughout the country, as well as visiting iconic landmarks like the Belem Tower and Porto Old Town.

Are ten days enough to visit Portugal?

While Portugal may be geographically small compared to other Western European countries, there's still so much to see and do that ten days would only scratch the surface of all the significant destinations. We recommend setting aside two weeks for your trip to truly experience all that Portugal has to offer.

Is Portugal expensive to visit?

Compared to other European vacation destinations, Portugal is quite affordable. With an average cost of $150 per individual per day, it's an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience Europe on a budget.

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About the Creator

AffiliCore

Meet AffiliCore a versatile writer covering shopping, fitness, SaaS, business & investment, and travel. With engaging content and an eye for detail, AffiliCore helps readers make smart and informed decisions.

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