Portugal: 36 Best Places for Your Holiday

We love Portugal. So much so that we drive here for several months every year. Thanks to this, I’ve explored it from top to bottom and can list the most beautiful places in Portugal, even if you wake me up at midnight. In this guide I will share with you Portugal: 36 Best Places for Your Holiday.

When someone asks me what to see in Portugal, I’d most like to say: Everything. For me, the most beautiful area is the sun-drenched Algarve, where we’ll hopefully soon spend more time than in the Czech Republic. Portugal simply has it all: beautiful beaches, charming towns, and, most importantly, a peaceful and safe atmosphere.

You can surf here, go for coastal hikes, or discover hidden hipster corners of cities. You should definitely visit Porto, Aveiro, or the capital Lisbon. Or, head out for a girls’ or guys’ trip for wine in the Douro Valley. Alright, let’s take a closer look at what to see in Portugal.

Portugal: 36 Best Places for Your Holiday

I probably can’t tell you “everything,” but the article content will be a bit more detailed, so be prepared. If any place catches your eye, click on the links; we have a separate article for almost everything. Yes, you’re on the blog of absolute Portugal devotees here.

Carvoeiro

It wouldn’t be me if this town wasn’t first on the list. Carvoeiro has become our favorite in southern Portugal. This picturesque town offers not only a beautiful central beach but also fantastic views from the surrounding cliffs. While you find that everywhere in southern Portugal, this town, in my opinion, also has a perfect atmosphere.

Start each morning with a good coffee at Levels cafe right by the beach, where they have one of the best coffees in Carvoeiro. This year, however, we also grew fond of Encci cafe, where we went for brunch almost every other day.

One day, definitely go for a walk along the cliffs – the Caminho do Algar Seco trail will lead you to the fascinating rock formations of Algar Seco. If you’re looking for a place with an ideal sunset view, Praia do Vale Centeanes beach is one of my favorites.

Accommodation Tip: If you’re planning a one or two-week stay, I’d try the hotel Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey. It has a beautiful pool and serves very good breakfasts. The hotel is located near one of Algarve’s most beautiful beaches – Praia da Marinha.

Lagos

Every year we say we could spend a month or so in Lagos. You’ll find one of the most photogenic spots in the area here – Ponta da Piedade, where majestic rock formations rise from the turquoise sea.

I recommend booking a kayaking trip around the cliffs and caves through GetYourGuide, which will allow you to explore this area from a unique perspective. Lagos’s Old Town is also worth a visit; firstly, there are many nice establishments here (including our favorite pizzeria with Neapolitan pizza), and secondly, it’s a lovely town where you can buy some souvenirs. Oh, and there are Christmas markets here during Christmas!

Where to stay? If you want an apartment, try (if it’s still available) Apartamentos Pinhão. For a romantic getaway, I’d recommend Charming Residence, and for families, Jardim da Meia Praia Resort.

Olhão

Olhão is an often-overlooked city (it took us a few years to visit it ourselves), but it offers an authentic Portuguese atmosphere without the tourist crowds. The city center is made up of beautiful houses inspired by North Africa.

The most significant attraction is definitely the Os Mercados market, where you’ll find fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables. Head there on a Saturday morning when the market is bustling with locals and tourists. From Olhão, you can also take a boat trip to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

And where to stay? Try Pure Formosa Concept Hotel, which opened in 2021 and quickly gained popularity thanks to its stylish rooms equipped with everything you need—air conditioning, minibar, and private bathrooms.

Silves – a Medieval Gem in the Heart of the Algarve

We spent a month here. In hindsight, I think it was a bit much, but it’s actually a really nice town for a day trip.

This medieval town, dominated by a 12th-century Moorish castle, is a bit different from the typical Algarve; as you walk through the narrow, winding streets around the castle, you’ll feel the medieval atmosphere.

Near the castle, you’ll also find Sé Cathedral, built in 1189 on the site of an old mosque. Don’t forget to relax in one of the cafes in Praça da Município.

I recommend coming here just for a day trip, but if you wanted to stay, Mosaiko 5 Suites are great.

Aljezur – a Surf Town with a Historic Soul

Aljezur is a place we regularly return to when we want to escape the tourist crowds. This small town is a paradise for every surfing enthusiast (popular surf beaches are nearby) and for an authentic atmosphere. The castle towering above the town dates back to the 10th century and is one of the oldest in the region.

For coffee lovers, I recommend visiting KOYO, where they make excellent flat whites. And if you’re hungry, head to Arte Bianca for pizza or Tamrab Thai for Thai cuisine.

One of the best hotels in the area is Praia do Canal Nature Retreat. It’s not in the center of Aljezur, but you’ll need a car here anyway, otherwise you won’t get to any beach.

Sagres – another Surfing Paradise at the End of the World

Sagres lies on the westernmost tip of the Algarve and has a completely different atmosphere than the rest of the southern coast. This wild corner of the country boasts a desolate, wind-swept landscape, mighty cliffs, and a turbulent sea.

Definitely visit Cabo de São Vicente, which is the westernmost point of continental Europe. Don’t miss the sunset here – it’s one of the most beautiful in all of Portugal.

If you’d like to stay in Sagres, check if Romantik Villa has availability! It’s an excellent accommodation and the price is quite reasonable.

Faro – where Everyone Goes

Yes, Faro has a very nice center, yes, there’s an airport here, and no, I wouldn’t go here for a holiday, but that’s only because I think the surrounding towns are better. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go on a trip here and fly in.

This capital of the Algarve region is for many travelers their first contact with southern Portugal. Centro Histórico, known as Vila Adentro, forms the heart of Faro’s historic center. Don’t forget to visit Sé Catedral de Faro, which was built in 1251. .

Also worth visiting is the Chapel of Bones – Capela dos Ossos – in the Igreja do Carmo church – yes, it’s decorated with human bones and skulls.

But if you wanted to vacation here, a great tip for cheaper accommodation is Baron Faro – Guest House. You’ll find it near the center, and it’s definitely sufficient as basic accommodation. Better apartments that I would choose are be Unforgettable Apartment, but they are often sold out during peak season. Want something a bit more luxurious? Nothing beats 3HB Faro in this location, but you’ll pay for it.

Craving something even more grandiose? 10 km from Faro, you can stay in a palace – Pousada Palacio de Estoi – Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Loulé

Loulé is a charming town located inland in the Algarve. There isn’t much here, but it’s such a cute medieval town that we visit it quite regularly for day trips. Its main attraction is the traditional market, which is especially lively on Saturday mornings.

Loulé Castle dates back to the 2nd century, with a history spanning from the Roman period through the Moorish era to the present day. You won’t find many good cafes here, but the historic Café Calcinha, dating from 1929, is worth mentioning.

Nazaré – City of Giant Waves

Nazaré, originally a fishing village, is known for its gigantic waves that attract surfers from all over the world. The highest recorded wave here measured an incredible 26.2 meters!

The problem is catching the time of the big waves. We haven’t quite managed it yet, but we’re not giving up. This year we would have made it in December, but with an 8-month-old baby, we just couldn’t go (he was even scared of normal waves), we’re not giving up!

For the best views of these impressive waves (most often from October to March), head to the viewpoint at the Fortaleza de São Miguel Arcanjo lighthouse. Don’t forget to also visit the old town of Sítio, which you can reach by the historic funicular dating back to 1889.

Lamego

Lamego, though located in the Douro wine region, is primarily famous for its Nossa Senhora dos Remédios sanctuary, which stands on a hill above the city. A monumental staircase with 686 steps leads to this impressive sanctuary; its construction began in 1777 and was only completed in the 20th century.

Also worth mentioning are the Sé Cathedral and the castle complex towering above the city. Lamego is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Douro River valley, where wine is cultivated on terraced vineyards.

Porto

Falling in love with Porto is not difficult at all – this Portuguese port city will charm you with its tiled facades, romantic streets, and excellent Port wine. And if you’re not a big wine fan but love good coffee, there are so many excellent cafes here that you won’t be able to visit them all in a week.

Absolute must-sees include the magical Livraria Lello bookstore, the Igreja do Carmo church with its blue facade, Sé do Porto Cathedral, and, of course, the Dom Luís I Bridge, which strikingly resembles the Eiffel Tower.

A stroll along the Cais da Ribeira waterfront with views of the Douro River and colorful houses should be done at least once or twice a day. Don’t forget to try the traditional pasteis de nata, visit one of the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, and take a trip to the picturesque Douro Valley.

Porto is more compact than Lisbon, easier to navigate, and feels more authentic.

And where to stay? Right in the center is the great hotel Ibis Porto Centro, which, like other Accor hotels, offers excellent breakfasts and allows dogs. If you want to stay in Porto for a longer period, we would choose Vitoria’s Terrace Apartments or Cozy Studio Apartment.

Lisbon

Lisbon is completely different from Porto, but it has a great vibe and atmosphere. You’ll definitely fall in love, just like us, with Alfama’s winding streets with the typical yellow tram number 28, views of the azure Tagus River, and great establishments. When you sit at one of the viewpoints in the evening and the melancholic melody of fado fills the air around you, you’ll understand why people keep coming back here.

It’s not just about the magnificent buildings like Belém Tower or the bizarre Santa Justa Lift, but about that feeling of freedom when you taste the typical pastel de nata dessert, browse street markets, and sip Port wine in Bairro Alto. Lisbon simply lives at its own pace, and you’ll soon succumb to it too!

Want to go to Lisbon for a holiday? Try to book accommodation early and get LR Guest House or Memmo Príncipe Real. If you want cheap accommodation in Lisbon, you can try the quite popular hostel right in the center The Gateway – Lisbon Eco Hostel.

Aveiro

Aveiro, often dubbed the “Portuguese Venice”, was a place I’d wanted to visit for a long time. It wasn’t so much the canals with traditional moliceiros boats that attracted me, but rather the Art Nouveau architecture and the proximity of Costa Nova with its iconic striped houses.

During your visit, don’t miss a boat ride on the canals, a tasting of the local specialty ovos moles (sweets made from egg yolks), a walk around Capela de São Gonçalinho, or a visit to local museums. Also, take time for a trip to nearby Costa Nova with its photogenic colorful houses, which once served as storage for fishing equipment.

If you’re planning to stay overnight in the area, we recommend staying directly in Costa Nova instead of Aveiro. You’ll be in a coastal area and can even experience a night in one of those striped houses. Costa Nova Hotel or the more luxurious Villa Rafa are excellent choices. From Costa Nova, it’s only 12 km to the center of Aveiro, so you can easily get there by car or local bus, while also enjoying the beauty and tranquility of a seaside resort.

Sintra: a Fairytale Kingdom of Palaces

Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, looks like a fictional town from a Disney story. But it really exists. The most iconic is the colorful Pena Palace on top of the hill, which combines various architectural styles from Neo-Gothic to Moorish influence.

Don’t forget to also visit the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its Initiation Well or the medieval Moorish Castle with breathtaking views of the surroundings. We recommend staying in Sintra for at least 2-3 days and staying, for example, at Villa Bela Vista or Sintra Bliss Hotel.

Douro Wine Valley

Portugal has everything. Even wine. And really good wine. If you go to the Douro Valley, you can buy wine even in a supermarket and be sure it will be excellent.

Beautiful views, vineyards, and friendly people. Our visit to Douro was shorter than we would have liked, and longer than we originally planned.

Imagine the Douro River, winding lazily between terraced vineyards, wine climbing the slopes like green lace. These hills aren’t just any hills – they are the oldest officially demarcated vineyards in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001.

For true enthusiasts, I recommend a cruise on a traditional rabelo boat – they used to transport wine barrels to Porto, now they carry tourists. But it’s not kitsch, it’s an experience. From the deck, you’ll see the wine region from a completely different perspective and understand why Americans call this valley the “enchanted valley”.

Praia Da Marinha – the most Beautiful Beach in the World

This beach is rightly considered one of the most beautiful in the world (at least by us), and we bring every visitor who comes to see us in Carvoeiro here. Golden sand, crystal-clear water, and majestic limestone cliffs create a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable day by the sea.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when you can experience the sunrise or sunset without crowds of tourists. At least during the off-season.

Praia Do Amado

This beach is one of the most popular among surfers in the entire Algarve, not only because of its waves but also its great atmosphere. We haven’t surfed there yet because we are beginners, and in winter, there weren’t waves suitable for beginner surfers (though conditions are different in summer).

Near the beach, you’ll find several surf schools offering lessons for beginners and advanced surfers. There are even annual surfing competitions here, attracting pros from all over the world. If you want to know more about surfing in Portugal, read our article.

Praia Da Bordeira

Praia da Bordeira near Carrapateira is one of the most beautiful and wildest beaches in Portugal. Last year, we spent a month and a half in the village nearby, even Christmas.

When you walk here, you feel like you’re at the end of the world. Vast sand dunes that ripple like a desert, and the stunningly clear and wild Atlantic waters. The beach is over 3 km long, which means it’s never crowded, and you’ll always find your spot. It’s also great for beginner surfers!

If you love peace, nature, and tranquility and want to be away from tourist-packed places, I recommend coming here for more than just a few days, even a week or two. You simply won’t get tired of it.

One of the most beautiful accommodations in Carrapateira is definitely Nōhō house, which is very stylishly furnished, centrally located, and has a very nice patio, but no pool. So if you prefer a pool, I recommend Sanderling beach & dune house.

Praia Da Dona Ana and Praia Do Camilo

Condé Nast Traveler magazine named this beach the best beach in the world. It rises among impressive limestone cliffs on the beautiful Golden Coast. The most beautiful photos are on the stairs leading to the beach. It’s an ideal place for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation. The water here is crystal clear with a turquoise hue.

Personally, I prefer the smaller Praia do Camilo beach, which I think is definitely the most beautiful in this part of the Algarve. But they are right next to each other, so visit both.

Praia Do Carvalho

This beach is one of the most photogenic in the entire Algarve. Access to the beach isn’t easy, but you can manage it – you have to go through a short tunnel carved into the rock. Your reward will be a beautiful small beach surrounded by high limestone cliffs, offering not only breathtaking scenery but also an opportunity to jump into the water. Outside the main season, it’s pleasantly quiet here.

Cabo Da Roca: where the Land Ends and the Sea Begins

Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, a place “where the land ends and the sea begins”. This majestic cliff with a lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the endless Atlantic Ocean. Cabo da Roca is easily accessible from Sintra or Lisbon.

Praia Da Rocha in Portimao

This extensive city beach in Portimao is one of our favorites for evening walks at sunset. Last year, when Jonášek was a baby, we were sad that we couldn’t come here in the evenings for sunsets. It was one of our favorite rituals. It has beautiful golden sand, and the beach is lined with a promenade featuring many restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Praia De Odeceixe

This beach lies on the border of the Algarve and Alentejo regions, at the mouth of the Seixe River into the Atlantic Ocean. This means you can choose between swimming in the sea or in the calmer river lagoon – which you’ll especially appreciate if you have small children.

Praia Da Arrifana

This beach is hidden in a bay lined with high cliffs and is popular among surfers, both beginners and experienced. Above the beach, you’ll find the remains of an old Moorish fortress that once protected the coast from pirates. Nearby is also the excellent SEA YOU SURF CAFÉ, where you can enjoy great coffee or brunch and soak in the surfing atmosphere.

Madeira

I fell in love with Madeira even before I visited mainland Portugal. It’s a paradise on earth that I could return to every year. In my opinion, it’s the most beautiful island in Europe. The only thing is, if you like lounging on beaches, Madeira is not really about that. Madeira is an island of flowers, hiking, mountains, and a relaxed atmosphere. Check out our article, where we also have a road trip itinerary.

São Miguel – Azores – Volcanic Paradise in the Middle of the Atlantic

The Azores, especially São Miguel, are a volcanic paradise in the middle of the Atlantic. The most magical place is Sete Cidades – two crater lakes (one blue, one green) surrounded by lush vegetation.. Caldeira Velha is very popular, where you’ll feel like you’re in Jurassic Park – these are thermal springs amidst lush vegetation. – so it’s ideal to plan it as a relaxing day after exploring the island.

Flores Island – Island of Waterfalls

Flores is one of the most remote islands of the Azorean archipelago, but the journey there is definitely worth it. You’ll feel like you’re in Hawaii – lush vegetation everywhere, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs plunging into the ocean. The most beautiful place is Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro – a basin surrounded by hundreds of waterfalls of all sizes, a true paradise on earth.

Ilha Deserta

This untouched island near Faro, also known as Barreta Island, offers peace, tranquility, and pristine beaches. The island is accessible by boat from Faro and is a nice escape from busy tourist centers. You’ll also find the popular restaurant “Estaminé” here, which supposedly has excellent fresh fish (we are vegetarians, so we can’t judge that).

Ilha Da Culatra

Ilha da Culatra is another picturesque island, this time off the coast of Olhão. You’ll find traditional fishing villages and beautiful beaches here. The island is accessible by ferry from Olhão port. In addition to exploring the fishing village, you can also visit the lighthouse on Culatra and enjoy an authentic atmosphere far from the tourist crowds.

Benagil Cave

There are places you simply must visit, and Benagil Cave is first on the list of Portuguese “must-sees.” It’s our mandatory stop for everyone who visits us in Portugal – and believe me, no one has regretted it yet.

Inside the cave, there’s a circular opening in the ceiling through which light streams in, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere: You simply have to experience it.

The cave is only accessible from the sea, and boats depart from several locations in the Algarve – from the towns of Lagos, Portimão, and Carvoeiro. In all cases, one rule applies: book your spot in advance! Especially in summer, when tours are often sold out days ahead. We ourselves book all trips through the GetYourGuide platform, where you are guaranteed a refund if the sea is rough (which isn’t such a problem in summer, but we are usually in Portugal from October to February).

Oh, and sometimes you can combine the trip with dolphin watching.

Ilha Da Armona

This island in front of Olhão has amazing beaches and charming streets of a former fishing village. A great place for a day trip, where you can enjoy swimming in crystal-clear water and sunbathing on sun-drenched beaches. The island also has a peaceful atmosphere untouched by mass tourism.

Ilha Do Farol

Ilha do Farol is part of Culatra Island and is known for its small community and the iconic Cabo de Santa Maria lighthouse, the oldest in Portugal. On the island, you’ll also find beautiful beaches with fine white sand and turquoise water. It’s a nice day trip from Olhão or Faro.

Silves Castle

Let’s highlight a few places in Portugal worth visiting. This impressive red sandstone fortress dominates the aforementioned town of Silves and is one of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses in Portugal. You can walk along the battlements, which offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and the town (as it’s in the center), and have coffee right in the castle’s heart. The castle was built in the 8th century and later expanded during the Moorish occupation.

Fortaleza De Sagres – Fortress of Discoverers

This fortress, built in the 15th century at the command of Prince Henry the Navigator, played a key role in Portuguese overseas discoveries. You’ll find it on the westernmost tip of Europe. It’s often listed as having beautiful views, but I would say it only has historical value, as the views are much better from other places. Inside the fortress, you can see a 43-meter diameter wind rose carved into the ground.

Parque Natural Da Ria Formosa – Natural Paradise

This natural park stretching along the eastern coast of the Algarve is made up of a system of lagoons, wetlands, sand dunes, and islands. It is home to over 20,000 birds during the winter months. If this interests you, I definitely recommend booking a trip through GetYourGuide. For me, the best is a boat trip at sunset.

Cabo De São Vicente – End of the World

The westernmost point of continental Portugal was once considered the end of the known world. Dramatic cliffs plunging directly into the ocean create an unforgettable scenery, especially at sunset. The lighthouse standing atop the cliff is one of the most powerful in Europe – its light is visible up to 50 kilometers away.