Things to Do in Portugal

The Cathedral of Évora, also known as the Cathedral of St. Mary of Évora, is a monumental masterpiece that stands as a testament to Portugal's rich architectural and historical heritage. Located in the heart of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this impressive structure is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Alentejo region.

Constructed between the late 12th and early 13th centuries, the Cathedral of Évora is an outstanding example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Its massive, fortress-like exterior is dominated by twin bell towers and a striking façade adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. This majestic building not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Évora's historical and cultural significance.

Enjoy a tour of this all-seater football stadium in Porto, that is also the home ground of FC Porto since 2003. With a seating capacity of more than 50,000, this is the third largest football stadium in the country. This is also a prestigious UEFA category four stadium that holds several international club and national team competition matches.

This exotic aquarium located in Porto will give you an insight into the rich and exotic world of the creatures underwater. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Portugal with a wide variety of interesting marine species that call it home. The aquarium is also popular for the environment and conservation education that they are spreading among the visitors who come here.

This is a beautiful church that was established by the Franciscan Order in 1245 but was later reformed after a massive fire destroyed part of it. While it was originally built in the Romanesque style of architecture, it was later transformed into a stunning example of Gothic architecture in Porto, with some elements of the Baroque style infused in it.

Housed within a 17th century palace, this museum is one of the most enlightening Portugal places to visit. It is located at the site of a former 16th century Carmelite convent and is one of the most important Portuguese museums today. The magnificent gardens overlooking the building is another important feature that attracts visitors here.

This monument, which was constructed with an octagonal layout with a Greek cross as its central focus, took the longest to finish in all of Portugal. Visiting this pantheon will give you some great insights as it has the tombs and cenotaphs of some of the most notable or influential people in the nation's history, including explorers, presidents, poets, and even the Fado diva Amália Rodrigues.

Fatima Sanctuary, also called Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fátima, is located in the municipality of Fatima, Portugal. The sanctuary is devoted to the Virgin Mary and is one of Europe's most popular pilgrimage sites. The attractions include several Catholic religious structures, out of which the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary comprises the main building. You can also explore the museum, the Chapel of the Apparitions and the Chapel of the Lausperene. 

One of the most imposing religious landmarks of the city, this cathedral is part of Portugal’s early history. The grand old church that dates back to the 12th century has stood witness to various important events pertaining to the nobility and the elite such as marriages, baptisms, and such others. It resembles a fortified tower with massive gray solid walls and two imposing clock towers

Discover this green lung in the city that boasts landscaped gardens with plants and trees from across the world as well as a bank of endangered and rare seeds. Counted among the best places to visit in Portugal, this sprawling garden houses more than 10,000 plants. The park has an enviable collection of subtropical vegetation, exotic plants, a butterfly greenhouse, and much more.

Popularly known as the Town Palace, the Sintra National Palace is a historic house museum today and one of the most attractive places to visit in Portugal. It is one of the most well preserved royal palaces from the medieval era in Portugal. It is the country’s most lived-in royal palace which also showcases minimalistic Gothic designs alongside highly adorned state rooms. 

The Lisbon Oceanarium is among the most exciting and best places to visit in Portugal with the entire family. It was originally constructed back in 1998 as the centerpiece of an ocean-themed world exhibition. Today it is a popular place of interest with its impressive futuristic architecture and innovative exhibits of the most exotic marine life.

Located in São Pedro de Penaferrim, this Romanticist castle stands on the top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains. It was completed in the mid 19th century and can be easily spotted from anywhere in Lisbon. It is also one of the top places to visit in Portugal for its splendid architectural features and vast forested park.

Situated right in the historical center of the city, this Roman Catholic church is one of Porto’s oldest buildings as well as among the country’s most important Romanesque monuments. It is located next to the walls that served as a protection for the city once and from the outside, the building has the appearance of a fortress with battlements.

This national monument is located in the historic center of the city and has been classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It was built by the Porto Commercial Association where the ruins of the Saint Francis Convent lay. Today it is used for welcoming eminent state dignitaries including monarchs, presidents and ministers from various countries across the world.

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima

As the name suggests, this Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology primarily focuses on three important areas. The museum is known for hosting international exhibitions with works of contemporary artists, thinkers, and architects. Located west of the city center by the River Tagus, this museum is one of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Originally built as a defense for the city, the Belem Tower was later transformed into a lighthouse and then a customs center. It is also one of the best places to visit in Portugal to witness the incredible Manuelino style of architecture by famous architect and sculptor Francisco de Arruda. Built between the years 1514 and 1520, it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Lisbon Zoological Garden is considered to be one of the most important of its kind in the entire continent and is certainly one of the best places to visit in Portugal. Opened in the late 19th century, the Lisbon Zoo is home to more than 2000 animals from nearly 350 different species. The zoo also has a wide array of enjoyable activities to keep visitors of all ages engaged.

The Lisbon Oceanarium is among the most exciting and best places to visit in Portugal with the entire family. It was originally constructed back in 1998 as the centerpiece of an ocean-themed world exhibition. Today it is a popular place of interest with its impressive futuristic architecture and innovative exhibits of the most exotic marine life.