Portugal Travel Guide: What to See and Do

Portugal, the most western country in Europe, is home to incredible wines, sweets, gastronomy, and many other topics that we can claim. With a past full of history and flourishes, today there are medieval villages and cities, with typical and different architecture. This comprehensive list includes natural and man-made landmarks in Portugal that you shouldn't miss adding to your bucket list.

Once upon a time, there was a small corner in southern Europe with 92,090 km² which they named Portugal (1139 AD). D. Afonso Henriques was the founder of the kingdom and its first king. In the 15th and 16th centuries, during the Age of Discoveries, the Portuguese made voyages and maritime explorations in search of new trade routes.

Portugal is a country where the sun shines 300 days a year, a country with a fantastic history, an extraordinary culture, delicious food, magnificent landscapes, sensational beaches, mountains that make us feel small and welcoming people that will make you feel at home.

Portugal is also one of the few countries in the world that, once visited, is never forgotten. This country awakens in us a very special feeling, that of Saudade when we are far from this wonderful paradise. Today you can count on a list of things you can do and see in Portugal, always with our support, ready to help you design the tour of your dreams.

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Santuário de Santa Luzia

The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (also known as the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia), built at the western end of Monte de Santa Luzia, in Viana do Castelo, is undoubtedly one of the most famous and emblematic monuments in the country.

Porto

Porto is the city that gave its name to Portugal (Portucale) and the famous Portuguese wine of the same name. But the city is not just that, and it is no wonder that it was chosen in 2012, 2014, 2017 as the best European tourist destination.is the idyllic place for wine tasting, in Cais de Gaia! When visiting Porto, you will discover a city full of charm, where the old blends perfectly with the modern, a city that is cosmopolitan and intimate at the same time. Follow Anthony Bordain's footsteps and do a full tour of the city, and taste the amazing and traditional food. 

Aveiro

Known as the Portuguese Venice, Aveiro has a thousand years of history, of which two hundred and fifty as a city. It was founded due to salt production and maritime trade. During your visit to the city, do not hesitate to take a small detour to discover Costa Nova beach and its beautiful fishermen's houses painted with vertical and horizontal stripes and in different colors, which brings a special charm to this place.

Coimbra

Known in Portugal as the city of students, Coimbra has an incredible history and monuments that you should definitely not miss when visiting Portugal! One of these monuments is the University of Coimbra Alta & Sofia, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Founded in Lisbon in 1290, it was permanently transferred to Coimbra in 1537 and is today considered one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Aldeias de Xisto, Lousã

27 unique villages spread out in the mountains, hidden from the daily routine. Here clocks tick slower and time has a different meaning. Relax, explore and enjoy a truly natural experience.

Nazaré

Beautiful Nazaré is a city unlike any other in central Portugal! From traditions that have lasted for many years and that are intrinsically linked to the fishing activity, to the giant waves that have made this city such a great tourist spot, there are many reasons why you should visit this place.

Arquipélago das Berlengas

Considered a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 2011, the Berlengas Natural Reserve was the first protected area in Portugal, decreed by King Afonso V, who prohibited hunting on the largest island of this archipelago, Berlenga Grande (1.5 km long and 800 m wide).

Óbidos

The beautiful village of Óbidos is very touristy but definitely worth a visit. It was conquered from the Moors by the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques. One of the most interesting places in Óbidos is undoubtedly the walls and castle that protect the citadel. Take advantage of your visit to explore the citadel, admire the castle, walk along the walls, the alleys with their beautiful houses and travel back in time imagining being a resident of this village in the middle of medieval times, a unique experience!

Mafra

Located just 39 km from Lisbon, the municipality of Mafra has many treasures that are worth visiting during your stay in Portugal.

Azenhas do Mar

Located 14 km from the historic center of Sintra, the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar is one of the most photogenic places in Portugal!

Sintra

Visiting Sintra is like stepping into a romantic realm, where majestic palaces, a fairytale castle, and fascinating mansions emerge among lush hills and forests. Book now your tour to this region. 

Lisbon 

Capital and largest city of Portugal, Lisbon appears at the top of the list among the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city of seven hills has captured the hearts of visitors from all over the world, thanks to a sumptuous blend of tradition and modernity. Discover here, a premium tour of the city. 

Parque Natural da Arrábida (Arrábida Natural Park)

The Arrábida Natural Park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Portugal. It is not by chance that I consider it a Portuguese paradise! When visiting this park, you will discover paradisiacal beaches (you don't need to go to the Caribbean), viewpoints with irresistible landscapes, and castles with hundreds of years of history.

Praia da Galé, Melides

Located 10 km from the village of Melides, Galé beach is one of the most beautiful in Portugal! With several kilometers long, this beach has incredibly beautiful cliffs!

Monsaraz

Located on top of a hill, Monsaraz is one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. In addition to admiring the splendid view over the valley and Lake Alqueva, one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, you can also stroll through the picturesque streets lined with white houses.

Piódão

A small village, where less than a hundred people live, nestled in the Serra do Açor, in the middle of Portugal. A place not very easy to access, but considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is Piódão, the historic village built almost entirely of schist, with houses glued to each other, with door and window openings painted in white and blue. By day, it looks like a set of dollhouses. At night, due to the low light, the village takes on the air of a Christmas crib. Of those unique places, with characteristics that are only found there.

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is the Portugal of wines! There, the wineries are spread out on both banks of the river, with vineyards, inns with incredible views, popular restaurants, and moments that are beyond pleasant – and charming! The stretch that brings together the largest number of farms and wineries is the one between Peso da Régua and Pinhão, and the destination can be visited in the New Year, with emphasis on the month of August, when the grapes are harvested, when the Douro Valley is at its peak!

The best way to get around Portugal

Enjoy wine & food tours

Wine & food tours, where you can relax, enjoy a glass of exquisite wine and admire the dazzling natural scenery.

7-Day Premium Tour in the Douro aboard a Private Yacht Cruise

Uncover the Secrets of Douro with a 7-day Astonishing Tour. The Douro is the place where dreams come true. The valley brings together the best of the region, and it promises to be the ideal choice for wine and gastronomy lovers and relaxation seekers. This is a tour that will take your words, bucket-list-worthy... And the best? It is the private cruise that will be the icing on the cake. 

5-Day Tour in the Douro with a Sailing Cruise in the Douro River

Exclusive. Memorable. Historical. A 5-day Wine Tour with full access to the best wineries in the Douro Valley, the oldest Demarcated Wine Region in the World. A trip that is abundant in singular moments. You will savor a Private River Cruise, have hands-on experience in a Cooking Workshop, visit the historic and picturesque village of Lamego.

3-Day Premium Tour in the Douro aboard a Private Yacht Cruise

A once in a lifetime experience for the ultimate cruise and wine lover. This tour was designed for demanding clients. A 3-day journey that will never cease to amaze you every step of the way. It's a tailor-made itinerary for the wine connoisseur and well-traveled client.

3-Day Tour in the Douro with a Cruise in the Douro River

This is the ultimate, utmost activity for expert Wine enthusiasts. A 3-day stay in a Wine Hotel at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A private sailboat cruise. A guided visit through some of the most famous wineries and wine estates of the iconic region. Book now, and enjoy a tour of a lifetime. 

Wine Tour - One Day in the Douro with a Douro River Cruise

Recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Site since 2001, the Douro Region is the oldest Wine Demarcated Region in the world, stretching through an area of more than 40 000 hectares. In a one-day wine tour, you will have the opportunity to visit some of its more charming wine estates where Port and Douro wines are produced, where you will enjoy different wine experiences and end your day with a relaxing cruise in the Douro River.

Enjoy Our Selection of Culture & Heritage Tours

Portugal is one of the most ancient countries in the world. Not only in the bigger cities but also every little charming village can be found impressive monuments or important historical traces that lead us on a journey through times. Book now the best culture and heritage tours in Portugal, handpicked by our local team.

8-Day Tour in Alentejo a Wine, Food and Cultural Tour

Discover the culture, gastronomy, and wine from the Alentejo region considered "the best wine region in the world to visit," according to the publication USA Today. This scenic wine region is also considered the "New Tuscany" by New York Times. This itinerary was designed thinking of those who want to become connoisseurs of wine, gastronomy, and all the singularities of the Alentejo region. In a warm and dry environment of terracotta plains, on an 8-day tour, you will meet some of the best wine producers in Portugal, stroll the unique landscapes and get to know its people and traditions.

5-Day Heritage & Food Tour in Alentejo

Discover the culture, gastronomy, and wine from the Alentejo region considered "the best wine region in the world to visit," according to the publication USA Today or named "New Tuscany" by New York Times. The Alentejo is one of the most beautiful regions of the country, it requires a long narrative, with a continuous and attentive presence in time and space, something that this overview cannot reveal in full. The region breathes a history immersed in periods of unrest and bonanzas.

3-Days Wine & Food Tour in Bairrada

Bairrada region presents one of the most romantic options that you might choose in Portugal. Its beautiful Palaces and Estates are full of love stories like the one of Pedro and Inês. Besides love, wine, gastronomy, and heritage are some of the main references in this region. In this Three-day tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the most famous wineries of the region, the Palaces, charming gardens, and Coimbra, the city of the students. The university is the oldest in our country and one of the oldest in the world.

3-Day Wine and Cultural Tour in the Vinho Verde Region

In this 3-day tour, you will discover the scenic landscape, the flavors, and the secrets of Vinho Verde and the Vinho Verde Region. This tour will also provide a cultural heritage experience and the discovery of 2 of the most historical Portuguese cities- Guimarães and Braga.

Enjoy Our Selection of Short Breaks

In need of a routine break and looking for a nice destination that assembles dreamy beaches, impressive history and culture, welcoming people, and absolutely delicious gastronomy? Come discover the wonders of Portugal, stay at a wine hotel and experience the world of wine in one of these tours, including a selection of the most authentic and complete experiences in this awarded European destination.

3-Day Wine Tour in Algarve

The Algarve is one of the most emblematic regions in Portugal due to its famous beaches. Also known for the excellent traditional gastronomy of Mediterranean influences and great wine. This tour is an invitation for those who appreciate the good things in life although don’t have much time to discover this beautiful destination. In this short break, we will give you the possibility to visit one of the most famous Wine Estates, the heritage of one of the most important cities from the Algarve, and to enjoy its marvelous landscapes.

3-Day Lisbon Tour

This tour was designed for you, who want to learn more about Lisbon's history, heritage, and connection with the wine. During this tour, we will give you the opportunity to discover this region.