EXPLORE UNIQUE PLACES TO HOLIDAY IN PORTUGAL

No trip to Portugal is complete without exploring its vibrant capital, Lisbon. 

From the historic quarters of Alfama and Mouraria to the elegant avenues of Chiado and Bairro Alto, there’s a story on every corner.

Explore the imposing Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, sample the iconic Pastéis de Belém, or hop on the famous tram 28 for a ride through the city’s most iconic sights.

With the Tagus River as a backdrop and a thriving culinary scene, Lisbon offers a cosmopolitan experience filled with Portuguese soul, as one of the best places to holiday in Portugal.

For travelers looking to explore beyond Lisbon, the surrounding regions offer rich cultural and historical experiences.

Head to Mafra to visit the monumental Mafra National Palace, a baroque masterpiece that houses one of Europe’s most beautiful libraries. Continue to Ericeira, a picturesque fishing village known as a world surfing reserve, where charming streets and golden beaches meet the Atlantic. A spiritual journey awaits in Fátima, one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites, where the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima attracts millions of visitors every year.

Finally, don’t miss the Monastery of Batalha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Gothic architecture built to commemorate the Portuguese victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota. Each of these destinations adds a unique layer to your Portuguese adventure.

For wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, the Douro Valley is an idyllic escape. Famous for its terraced vineyards and world-renowned Port wine, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers river cruises, scenic hikes, and some of the best wine tastings in the country.

The Douro Valley’s harvest season (September and October) is its busiest time, and for a good reason. The landscape transforms with stunning autumn hues of yellow, orange, and red, while many wineries offer immersive experiences where visitors can take part in the traditional grape harvest and foot treading in stone lagares.

Óbidos is one of those towns that came out of a fairy tale. Made out of cobbled streets with a beautifully preserved castle, picturesque whitewashed houses, vibrant bougainvillea and a full-of-magic architecture, this is the perfect place to reminisce over the ancient history of the Iberian Peninsula.

In Óbidos you will find one of the most delicious portuguese liquors, the cherry liqueur, ginjinha, served in chocolate cups. The town is just 1h away from Lisbon and 1h and a half away from Coimbra, making the visit to Óbidos a great one-day trip for travelers wanting to leave behind the cosmopolitan environment of the Portuguese capital.

We especially recommend you to visit in July for the Medieval Market, in April for the International Fair of Chocolate or during the Christmas time to enjoy the Christmas markets.

If you’re looking for unique places to holiday in Portugal where you can have the best of both worlds, that is, the green mountains and the magic of mother nature with the feeling of restfulness of a day at the beach, the Azores is the best place for it. The Azores archipelago is one of the most incredible places to holiday in Portugal, and probably one of the most beautiful places in the whole world.

Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are just a 2h30 flight away from Lisboa. The archipelago is a group of volcanic islands with dramatic landscapes, crater lakes and natural hot springs that will leave one wondering if they’re still on planet Earth.

Whether hiking in São Miguel, diving in Pico, or exploring the untouched beauty of Flores, the Azores are perfect for those seeking a remote and nature-filled escape.

Tavira, often called the “Venice of the Algarve,” is one of the most picturesque and historically rich towns in southern Portugal. Located along the banks of the Gilão River, this charming destination perfectly blends Moorish heritage, traditional Portuguese architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere. The Tavira area is definitely one of the most beautiful places to holiday in Portugal.

One of Tavira’s highlights is its access to the stunning beaches of the Ilha de Tavira, a long, sandy island reachable by ferry. This tranquil paradise, part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, is the ideal retreat away from the more crowded beaches of the Algarve.

Beyond its natural beauty, Tavira is a fantastic place for food lovers. The town is known for its fresh seafood, particularly octopus, which is a specialty in the nearby fishing village of Santa Luzia.

Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sado estuary, Comporta is one of the most beautiful secrets of Portugal. Just 1h30 hours drive from Lisbon, here you’ll find a blend of nature and luxury, making Comporta one of the greatest places to holiday in Portugal.

Surrounded by golden sand dunes, pine forests, and rice fields, this tranquil village in the Alentejo region offers a rare combination of serenity and sophistication. Known for its bohemian-chic atmosphere, Comporta has been dubbed the “Portuguese Hamptons” by the Financial Times, attracting those who seek a peaceful retreat.

Despite its growing popularity, Comporta retains an authentic charm, where traditional fisherman’s huts coexist with elegant boutique hotels and stylish beachfront restaurants.

Visitors can spend their days relaxing on pristine beaches like Praia da Comporta and Pego Beach, enjoying fresh seafood or exploring the surrounding nature reserves. The region is also home to three protected natural reserves, making it a paradise for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Alentejo is a vast and diverse Portuguese region, stretching from rolling plains and medieval villages to dramatic coastlines and ancient megalithic sites. Some will say this is the best region of Portugal to grab a (delicious) national bite!

For a short getaway (2–3 days), focus on a specific area, such as Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its surroundings, where you can explore the Roman Temple, the Chapel of Bones, and nearby vineyards. Alternatively, a coastal escape to Vila Nova de Milfontes and the Costa Vicentina offers breathtaking beaches and fresh seafood.

A week-long trip (5–7 days) allows you to experience more of the region, combining inland towns like Monsaraz and Marvão with the wild beauty of the Alentejo coast. This timeframe lets you explore charming whitewashed villages, taste the region’s world-renowned wines, and immerse yourself in the slow rhythm of local life.

For those who love deep cultural and nature experiences (10+ days), a longer journey is perfect to uncover hidden gems like Elvas, Castelo de Vide, and the cork oak forests near Portalegre. You can also take your time discovering prehistoric sites such as the Almendres Cromlech or enjoying outdoor activities like hiking in Serra de São Mamede.

Regardless of how long you stay, the Alentejo promises an unforgettable journey through some of Portugal’s most authentic and scenic landscapes. The tranquility of the region makes the Alentejo region one of the most relaxing places to holiday in Portugal.

No list of unique places to holiday in Portugal would be complete without mentioning the wonderful coastline of Cascais and the mystical landscapes of Sintra, indeed two of the most beautiful places to holiday in Portugal.

Cascais offers beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and a lively cultural scene, while Sintra enchants visitors with its fairytale palaces, lush forests, and panoramic views. For the perfect blend of elegance, nature, and history, these two destinations provide an unforgettable experience.

If you’d like to know more about what to do in Sintra and Cascais check our dedicated page made especially to guide you around town.