Regardless of whether you are chasing the top must-sees in the country or are looking for unique experiences, there are endless things to do in Portugal that suit any traveller.

Best Cities in Portugal

Portugal's cities are like museums where tradition meets today’s modern world. Each city offers its own personality, and if you are planning a trip, these should not be missed!

Lisbon

The country’s capital built on seven hills, and one of the oldest cities in Europe, even older than Rome! The Belém district, with the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, symbolizes Portugal's Golden Age of Maritime Exploration.

Algarve

Portugal's Algarve region along the southern coastline boasts over 150 beaches with some of Europe's most dramatic limestone cliffs. It is the most loved destination among locals, with 34% of Portuguese vacationing there. Here are just some of the places you should visit if you are wondering what to see in Portugal.


  • Benagil Cave is a few minutes from Lagoa and is one of the most photographed sea caves in the world.

  • The Ria Formosa Natural Park boasts birdwatching in the lagoons and at the barrier islands.

  • Hiking spots like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, which was named Europe's best hike in 2019.

Some Hidden Gems in Portugal

Although Portugal has many rewarding destinations in the cities, there are some hidden corners to explore.

Douro Valley

In 1756 Douro Valley became the world's first designated wine region and got a status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the finest Ports and reds produced in Europe are grown on the terraced vineyards that cascade down to the river. A river cruise provides travellers with the quietest perspective to take in the beauty of this region, starting in Peso da Régua.

Serra da Estrela

With Portugal’s highest peak at 1,993 m, Serra da Estrela is a hiker’s paradise and one of the hidden gems Portugal. In winter, it’s also the only place to ski in Portugal. While you are there, make sure you try Queijo da Serra, a creamy sheep’s milk cheese which is protected by PDO.


Along with these, Portugal has many other hidden gems to explore, like:

  • Óbidos: A walled medieval town famous for its cherry liqueur, ginjinha.

  • Praia da Ursa: A secluded beach on the way to Sintra accessible only by foot, with stunning rock formations.

  • Azores and Madeira: Volcanic islands offering whale watching, crater lakes and award-winning hiking routes.

Fun Things to Do in Portugal For The Adventure Seekers

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Pixabay - franky1st;

Adventure tourism is growing in Portugal, with activities ranking the country as one of the top outdoor destinations in Europe. These are just a few things if you are thinking about what to do in Portugal.

Zip-lining in the Algarve

Cross the Guadiana River on the world’s first cross-border zip line, flying into Portugal from Spain in under a minute.

Alongside traditional thrills, Portugal also embraces modern entertainment. Many travellers now relax with novos casinos online Portugal after the day’s adventures. These online casino sites offer slots, poker, and live dealer games, so it is a fun distraction and a way to escape and relax digitally, after a full day of hiking or skiing.

Hiking in Madeira

Madeira has more than 3,000 km of levada (irrigation channels) to be taken as fantastic hiking routes. The most well-known is Pico Ruivo with its stunning views above the clouds.

Culturally Rich and Historical Context

Portugal has cultural richness that spans thousands of years, so there are countless cultural treasures to explore. For any travellers wondering what they must see in Portugal, here are some cultural highlights you should not miss.


  • Jerónimos Monastery (Lisbon). Built in 1501, this Manueline monument is a UNESCO site and the burial place of Vasco da Gama.

  • Sintra. The colourful Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, full of mystical and hidden tunnels and initiation wells.

  • Évora. A UNESCO city containing the 2000-year-old Roman Temple of Diana and the ghostly Chapel of Bones.

  • Traditions. From their soulful Fado music to the much-loved dish bacalhau, which is said to have over 365 different recipes, Portuguese culture is immersive and unique.


Alongside its historic appeal, Portugal has also moved quickly into the digital living age, enabling visitors to experience first-hand how both the traditional and modern can work together. Popular entertainment forms such as online casinos BE allow you to unwind and relax after a day of sightseeing. This fusion of old and new is part of Portugal’s uniqueness and makes it one of the most exciting travel destinations in Europe.

Advice on Planning the Perfect Trip to Portugal

Planning your trip helps you discover the best things to do in Portugal. Here's a seven-day itinerary:

  • 3 days in Lisbon (city + day-trip to Sintra)

  • 2 days in Porto (add the Douro Valley)

  • 2 days in the Algarve (to enjoy the beaches and caves)

A couple of other things you should know are that the currency is the Euro, and you’ll find many locals fluent in English. Also, high-speed trains connect Lisbon and Porto in less than 3 hours, and domestic flights link the mainland with Madeira and the Azores.