Five Of The Best Cities And Places To Visit In Portugal

Portugal is an exciting southwestern European destination that tourists absolutely love — admired for its sunshine, affordability, and charming towns and cities.

In this article

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Portugal?Five Iconic Places In Portugal That Everyone Should Visit Lisbon - The Birthplace Of Fado Music Porto - The City Where Port Wine Came From The Algarve - A Perfect Destination For Honeymoons With The Nicest Weather Madeira - Where Mountain Enthusiasts Spend Their Holidays Braga - The Religious Center Of Portugal Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

Old yellow tram on the streets of Lisbon old town on a sunny day, Portugal

Don’t miss the old yellow trams all around Lisbon for iconic pictures of the city © Getty Images

Every part of Portugal offers something different. Porto is the city to visit if you want to dive deep into the country’s port culture, Lisbon is famed for its creative street art, the Algarve is a tropical heaven, and the list goes on and on.

Because Portugal has so many wonderful spots to see, choosing where you want to fly can be challenging. We have compiled a list of the five best cities and places to visit in Portugal to help you.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Portugal?

Anyone who goes on holiday for sun will love Portugal during the summer. Portugal has always been a popular place for summer holidays among tourists. The weather is lovely in July and August, with temperatures averaging 26 °C. Still, it gets quite crowded, especially in warm places like the Algarve, because this is when most Europeans take their time off work, so finding a place to stay can be difficult and expensive.

If you’re not locked into set months that you can travel, the shoulder seasons offer great value and decent weather. Between September and October and May and June, a small number of people are traveling, so you can find great deals on flights, accommodation, and tours.

During the winter, and especially over Christmas, temperatures drop and average between 13 and 15°C, so you won’t exactly catch a tan, but it won’t be cold enough for snow to fall for some skiing. A lot of establishments shut their doors early, attractions close multiple times throughout the day, and fewer excursions are going ahead.

Five Iconic Places In Portugal That Everyone Should Visit

Lisbon
Porto
Algarve
Madeira
Braga

Lisbon - The Birthplace Of Fado Music

Lisbon is the pretty Portuguese capital that everyone raves about. The city has a relaxed vibe to it, is filled with tasty food, and is pretty cheap compared to other major European cities. Take some time to wander through the cobblestone streets to admire incredible street art, watch a traditional Fado dancing show, and spend hours staring at the Sanctuary of Christ the King.

Activities You’ll Love In Lisbon

Hit up some clubs in Bairro Alto - The bohemian-styled nightlife district of Bairro Alto is where locals and tourists come together to party the night away. It’s a combination of streets rammed with bars and clubs that sleeps during the day and comes alive when the sun goes down. Navigating the area at the start is difficult because it’s almost like a maze, but once you find your feet, you’re in for a great time.

Lisbon cityscape with St. George Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) at sunset, Portugal

Lisbon cityscape © Getty Images

Eat mountains of food at the Time Out Market - Release your inner foodie at Lisbon’s Time Out Market. It’s a huge open-air food hall filled with 26 stalls offering all types of food from Portuguese cuisine, eight bars, and an array of shops. There are so many options you’ll be spoiled for choice.

See some modern art at the MAAT (Art, Architecture and Technology Museum) - This contemporary art museum is the cultural center of Lisbon and was only opened in 2016. It’s a gallery that combines present-day designs and old-fashioned structures that can be seen through the buildings, which blend industrial and innovative designs.

What To Eat And Drink In Lisbon

Pastéis De Nata - These traditional Portuguese pastries are sold everywhere you go in Lisbon and are the country’s national treasure. They’re small egg tarts with custard and have a flaky pastry dough around the outside. You’ll have at least one of these a day when you’re there.

Pasteis de nata, traditional Portuguese pastry on a plate

The best pastry you’ll probably ever taste © Getty Images

Ginja - If you’re a fan of cherries, you’ll love Ginja, a sour cherry liqueur that’s made with some spices, Morello cherries, and sugar. Some bars in the capital will offer you a complimentary shot of Ginja if you’ve ordered a snack.

Tips for Visiting Lisbon

Lisbon is a hilly city. You’re going to be walking up and down like a yo-yo, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
When you land at Lisbon Airport, buy a Via Viagem ticket at the metro station. It’s a public transport ticket that allows you to use trains, metros, buses, ferries, trams, and funiculars for a fixed fee as many times as you want.
English is widely spoken throughout Lisbon, so don’t worry about language barriers.

Show me some amazing destinations in Portugal.

I need flights to Lisbon now!

Porto viewpoint from bridge

Beautiful views from the bridges of porto

Porto - The City Where Port Wine Came From

One of the top places to go on vacation in Portugal is Porto. There’s no better place to learn about the Portuguese port scene and sample some for yourself. Admire colorful buildings in the lively district of Porto Ribeira before crossing one of the enchanting bridges that cross the peaceful Douro river.

Porto - What To Do There?

Tour a port wine cellar - Many of the prominent port wine cellars are situated on the south bank of the Douro river. Take a day tour to discover how the wine is made, from fermentation to storing it in oak barrels for many years before consumption. It truly is an eye-opening experience.

Check out the FC Porto Stadium - Sports fans will know that FC Porto is one of the most successful Portuguese football teams in history. Take a stadium tour of the Estádio do Dragão, discover iconic players that have played for the club in the past, and see their trophy cabinet with your own eyes.

Plan your trip around Festa de São João - On the 23rd of June every year, Porto celebrates their Patron, Saint John. Everyone hits the streets with inflatable hammers to hit each other with them. As well as that, live concerts are held with firework displays, and stalls are set up to serve people various street food like grilled sardines.

Which Are The Essential Food And Drinks To Try In Porto?

Francesinha - Also known as a Porto Sandwich, Francesinha is one of Porto’s signature dishes. It’s a sandwich filled with meats such as chourićo, sausage, steak and ham, cheese, an egg, and drenched in a tomato-based gravy. You should only try to attempt a Francesinha if you’re starving, as they’re quite filling.

Port wine - Port is a rich dessert wine that’s made in different styles like white, red and rosé, etc. It tastes pretty sweet and wouldn’t be for everyone. But since you’re in Porto, you must try some for yourself. Around the city center, you’ll find charming port bars on every corner worth popping in for a glass or two.

Drinking port wine from a glass with view towards Porto skyline, personal perspective view, Porto, Portugal

Drinking port wine from a glass with view towards Porto skyline © Getty Images

What To Know Before You Go To Porto

The weather in Porto is unpredictable at the best of times because of its location. One minute the sun could be beaming in the sky; the next, it will pour down from the heavens. Bring a jacket, even if you’re only visiting for a day or two, just to be safe.
Don’t hire a car in Porto. The streets are very narrow, and most roads are one-way, so it can be confusing if it’s your first time there.

I’m interested in learning more about Porto.

Please show me great flight deals to the Duoro Region.

The Algarve - A Perfect Destination For Honeymoons With The Nicest Weather

Located on the south coast of Portugal is the beautiful Algarve, popular for its picturesque beaches, luxury resorts, and quaint villages. Spend your days unwinding on the white sand in Albufeira or admiring incredible rock formations like at Ponta da Piedade. Get ready for a whole different side of Portugal.

Walkway to idyllic beach, Algarve, Portugal

Algarve has some of the best beaches you’ll find in Europe © Getty Images

Cool Places To See In The Algarve

Find your way into Benagil Cave - Situated in the tiny fishing village of Benagil is the astounding Benagil Cave. It’s oddly placed in the middle of the sea and has become famous in recent years because of the mind-boggling hole in the ceiling. Although you can swim to the cave, it’s not recommended in case the tide changes rapidly, so you’re better off taking a boat trip to see it.

Check out the Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse - Six kilometers west of Sagres is the impressive Cabo de São Vicente Lighthouse, sitting on the edge of a 75-meter-high dramatic sea cliff. It dates back to 1846 and was built over the ruins of an old monastery. Today, the lighthouse is still in operation and a famous sight in the Algarve.

Lighthouse of Cabo Sao Vicente

Lighthouse of Cabo Sao Vicente © Getty Images

Spend the day at Side Splash Waterpark - Spanned over ten hectares, this massive waterpark in the Algarve offers an abundance of exciting waterslides and relaxing paddle pools for families, solo travelers, and young couples to enjoy.

Mouthwatering Food And Drinks You Have To Try In The Algarve

Conquilhas à Algarvia - Seafood lovers will particularly enjoy Conquilhas à Algarvia. Straight from the Atlantic Ocean, this flavorful dish consists of fried onions, garlic, Portuguese sausage, and fresh claims, all fried on a pan and served as a scrumptious dish.

Licor de Amêndoa Amarga - If you’re a sucker for bitter drinks, the Licor de Amêndoa Amarga will be right up your street. It’s a sweet almond liqueur that’s mostly made in the Algarve because of the region’s high production of nuts. You can either enjoy it as a mixed cocktail or have it on its own with a squeeze of lemon for dessert.

Tips That Locals Want You To Know Before You Visit The Algarve

If something like bread or cheese is put on your table in a restaurant in the Algarve and you consume it, you’ll be charged. Unfortunately, nothing is free.
Brush up on your water safety before visiting the Algarve. The ocean current is powerful, and things can change with a click of a finger.
The Algarve is one of the warmest locations in Portugal. Pack plenty of sunscreens, stay hydrated, and take plenty of breaks from the sun each day.

I want to see what holidays are like in Portugal.

Show me where I can book my next flight to the sunny Algarve.

Madeira - Where Mountain Enthusiasts Spend Their Holidays

Pride of Madeira at Pico de Arieiro

Pride of Madeira at Pico de Arieiro © Getty Images

The islands of Madeira sit in the North Atlantic Ocean and are considered a hiking paradise because of their rugged mountains, dense forests, and challenging walking trails. Besides the outdoorsy side of the archipelago, it’s known for its delicious wine, produced in various styles and sold everywhere in the world.

Beautiful Places You Must See In Madeira

Scout out the lakes of Madeira - Explore the Levada do Alecrim hiking area that holds stunning waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in nature like never before and catch postcard-like views of spectacular rock formations.

Young woman relaxing on a natural pool

Brave the Cabo Girão - Off the south coast of Madeira is the infamous Sky Walk. It’s a 580-meter-high glass platform that you can walk out onto and catch an incredible seaside vista of the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, it’s free to access, ideal if you’re traveling on a budget.

Take on Pico Ruivo - Do you think you can conquer the highest mountain in Madeira? Pico Ruivo is 1,86 meters high and has an accessible route for walkers up to the challenge. Make sure you bring the right gear with you for the hike, and keep an eye on the weather conditions, so you don’t get caught in a storm.

Best Dishes And Drinks In Madeira

Espetada Madeirense - Madeira island’s traditional specialty is Espetada Madeirense, a skewer with marinated beef cubes that are grilled over charcoal. When you’re in Madeira, some restaurants have iron cooking areas attached to tables to hang the skewers, an interesting touch that adds to the dining experience.

Madeira Wine - As we mentioned above, Madeira produces its fair share of wine. But, did you know there’s a specific brand called “Madeira Wine,” a fortified wine with a unique nutty taste from the wine being heated several times? You can buy it all over the island and throughout Portugal, and it tastes magnificent.

Things To Know Before You Visit Madeira

Always keep some cash on you when in Madeira. Yes, bank card is accepted in a lot of places, but sometimes you might need some extra change to use the cable cars or if you plan on eating somewhere outside of the main tourist areas.
Beaches in Madeira aren’t like those in the Algarve. It’s a volcanic island, so most of them are black with volcanic sand.

I really want to see unique places to travel to in Madeira.

Find me flight tickets for low prices in Funchal.

The white houses of Braga

When you’re in Braga, make sure to take some time to wander through the quiet streets and enjoy the architecture © Getty Images

Braga - The Religious Center Of Portugal

If you’re a history buff, you’re going to adore Braga. Braga is one of Portugal’s oldest cities, known as “Portuguese Rome” because Romans built it over 2000 years ago. It’s pretty evident as you wander through the cobblestoned streets surrounded by Romanesque architecture.

What Are The Top Rated Things To Do In Braga?

Take a ride on the Bom Jesus do Monte Funicular - Installed in the 1880s, the Bom Jesus do Monte Funicular has served locals in Brava for over 100 years. It’s an operating cable car on the side of a hill that transports passengers up 274 meters high. Step back in time and see the oldest funicular on the planet that uses water counterbalancing.

Express admiration for the Braga Cathedral - A visit to Braga wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the city’s cathedral. It was the first cathedral ever to be constructed in Portugal and was established in the 11th century. The intriguing gothic designs are easy on the eye and will awe even those who aren’t that interested in architecture.

Escape the city life at Peneda-Gerês National Park - Take a break from the religious sights of Braga and make the forty-minute journey to the Peneda-Gerês National Park. Walk through granite villages, watch wild deer run through the forests, and swim under cascading waterfalls.

Food And Drink That’s Worthing Sampling In Braga

Pudim à Abade de Priscos - Nothing beats a sweet treat after a heavy meal. Pudim à Abade de Priscos is a type of pudding made with egg yolks, a little bit of bacon, cinnamon sticks, and lemon peels. A weird combination, right? People from Brava have a massive appetite for this peculiar dessert. Try it out for yourself and see what you think.

Aguardente Vínica - They don’t call it Portuguese firewater for nothing. Aguardente Vínica is similar to brandy, a strong spirit distilled from wine. One glass of this stuff will give you a kick, unlike any other drink you’ve had before.

Our Secret Tips You Should Know Before Visiting Braga

Dinner is served early in Braga. Most establishments won’t open past ten o clock. Only a few restaurants in the city allow customers to sit down late, so note.
Life in Braga is slow-paced. Don’t expect much urgency when dealing with locals. If you plan on meeting someone at 9 pm, you’re better off telling them 8:30 pm because they’ll probably be late.

Give me some Braga vacation ideas.

Fly me to one of Minho’s beautiful cities now.