Best Things to Do in Portugal

1. Lisbon

Portugal’s capital city is a vibrant, hilly, coastal city, ready to embrace all who visit. Most Portugal tours feature a stop in Lisbon on the itinerary. Travelers can take in gorgeous views over the ocean, explore Lisbon’s many churches, art galleries, and museums, and of course indulge in delicious seafood. Top things to see and do in Lisbon include: São Jorge Castle, eat and shop along the Praça do Comércio, and explore Lisbon Cathedral.

2. Douro River Cruise

Portugal’s Douro River is a great place for a river cruise that’s a bit off the beaten path from it’s more famous cousins the Danube, Rhine, and Rhone. The Douro provides a different experience in that it’s a shorter cruise, and covers only two countries, Portugal and some of Spain.

Views along the Douro river are bucolic and natural, very few large towns to be seen. Wine tasting in the Douro Valley is one the highlights of any Douro River cruise, and this activity is a popular excursion throughout the year in Portugal.

3. Wine and Port Tasting

Portugal has several small wine regions, and wine tasting is a common tour activity in Portugal. Wine lovers from the US will delight in some lesser known varietals. In addition, Portugal is one of the foremost producers of Port and Madeira. You will enjoy tastings of this delectable drink on your tour as well. The top regions to visit for port tasting include:

4. The Azores

Situated over 900 miles off the Portuguese west coast, The Azores are a small grouping of Islands perfectly set up for hiking. Though small, the Azores present spectacular landscapes - outdoorsy adventure travelers will love the remote nature of the islands. The coast is dotted with small fishing villages and it’s a place to truly get away from it all.

5. Tomar

Founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, Tomar has an aura of intrigue and mystery throughout its ancient streets. Tomar is located in central Portugal, idyllically placed along the Nabao River. The Convento de Cristo is one of the main attractions in Tomar, offering a beautiful example of ornate medieval architecture. The Convento de Cristo is sprawling, and includes several buildings to explore - be sure to plan enough time!

6. Castle of Guimarães

This imposing fortress looks exactly how one imagines a medieval castle should look. It dates back to the early days of Portugal’s founding, built in the 900s, and in fact played a very important role in the birth of Portugal as a nation. In 2001 the Castle of Guimarães was recognize as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Porto

Portugal’s second largest city, Porto is the place to be for food, wine, nightlife, and laid back European charm. Porto combines all the best things about Old World Europe with a modern city. There is famously a lot of competition between Lisbon and Porto, and while each city has wonderful attributes, one thing Porto has going for it is a bit less fame.

It hasn’t been taken over by tourism so you’ll discover a delightfully local feel with fewer crowds. Porto isn’t as polished as Lisbon, but that’s what makes it perfect for travelers seeking and authentic experience. And of course the nearby port wine region makes it one of the top spots on Portugal itineraries.

8. The Algarve

Picturesque Algarve is situated on the southernmost coast of Portugal. The sun dappled streets, golf courses, and white buildings might make one feel as though you’ve stepped into a 1960s color toned film or photograph. Something of a hidden secret resort town, the Algarve is the place to be for some rest and relaxation, but with more active pursuits like coastal hikes never far away. Spend enough time here to get into the swing of things, discover hidden beaches, and find local unassuming spots for some of the most amazing seafood you’ll ever have.

9. Braga

From the far south the far north! Braga is located in northeastern Portugal, and the place to be if you love festivals and religious history. Top sights to explore in Braga include Archbishop’s Palace, Braga Cathedral, and the sprawling Bom Jesus do Monte complex.

10. Madeira

Off the coast of Northern Africa lies Madeira, a small autonomous archipelago made up of 4 islands. With epic walks and hikes, small markets, wine tasting, and beautiful harbors Madeira is a hidden secret for adventurous travelers looking for a Portugal tour that goes beyond the beaten path.