Belém Tower
Region: Lisbon
Cultural Heritage
A white fortress in Manueline style. Registered as a World Heritage Site as a symbol of the Age of Discovery
Tourism in Portugal
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Jerónimos Monastery
Region: Lisbon
Cultural Heritage
A magnificent monastery built to celebrate Vasco da Gama's successful expedition
Sintra-Pena Palace
Region: Sintra
Modern Architecture
A colorful hilltop palace and gardens in Romantic style
Porto Historic Center Ribeira
Region: Porto
Cultural Heritage
Famous for its colorful townscape and Dom Luís I Bridge over the Douro River
Alto Douro Wine Region
Region: Douro Valley
Cultural Landscape
The heart of Port wine production with terraced vineyards and cruises
Algarve Coast
Region: Lagos area
Nature
Ponta da Piedade with emerald seas and rock formations is a scenic photography spot
Évora Historic Center
Region: Alentejo region
Cultural Heritage
A "museum city" preserving Roman temples and whitewashed townscapes
Batalha Monastery
Region: Leiria District
Cultural Heritage
A monastery blending Gothic and Manueline styles commemorating victory in the War of Independence
Fátima Our Lady of the Rosary Basilica
Region: Santarém District
Pilgrimage Site
A Catholic holy site attracting pilgrims worldwide due to apparition traditions
Azores Islands
Region: Atlantic Ocean
Nature
A volcanic island paradise featuring crater lakes, whale watching, and hot springs
Madeira Island Laurisilva
Region: Madeira
Natural Heritage
World's largest laurel forest with scenic levada (irrigation canal) trekking
Guimarães Castle
Region: Braga District
Cultural Heritage
A medieval fortress and old town called "the birthplace of Portugal"
Suggested itineraries
Lisbon and World Heritage Golden Triangle
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Lisbon Old Town, Sintra Palaces, Cascais Coast
Efficiently tour scenic spots and historic architecture accessible by day trips from Lisbon
Porto & Douro Valley Wine Cruise
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Ribeira District, Port Wine Cellars, Douro River Cruise, Pinhão Vineyards
Use trains and boats to enjoy premium wines and local cuisine in the World Heritage valley
Algarve Southern Coast Drive
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Lagos Old Town, Benagil Cave, Cape Sagres, Tavira
Tour the golden coastline and white fishing villages by rental car, enjoying seafood and marine sports
Travel tips
- Comfortable shoes are essential for slippery cobblestone hills in Lisbon
- Standing at a cafe counter is cheaper than sitting, with espresso about 70 cents
- Alfa Pendular high-speed trains are convenient between major cities
- Strong sunlight requires hats and sunscreen in summer
- Restaurant appetizers like bread and olives can be declined and won't be charged
- Rechargeable "Viva Viagem" cards offer discounts on buses and metro
- Beautiful old towns at night see increased pickpocketing, so manage valuables carefully
- Shops may close on public holidays, so check in advance
- Weather changes rapidly in Azores and Madeira, so plan flexible schedules
- Simple greetings in Portuguese are warmly welcomed
- "Multibanco" ATMs are nationwide and offer English display
- National parks have entry restrictions during wildfire season in rural areas
- Dinner typically starts after 8 PM, earlier openings cater to tourists
- Portuguese SIM cards include EU roaming at affordable rates
- Student IDs offer discounts at many museums