Places to Visit in Portugal

This Moorish Castle is one of the most popular places to visit in Portugal that fundamentally served as a military fortification testifies to the presence of Islamic rulers in the country. It is believed that these were initially built during the eighth and ninth centuries and were later expanded. They look over the town of Sinatra and served as a watchtower thus standing guard to Lisbon and the surrounding region.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Military Museum of Porto is among the most unique Portugal places to visit that features a large collection of light arms, military equipment, army uniforms, as well as a wide array of heavy artillery. It also features armaments, cannons, vehicles, and much more. What makes the museum distinct is its marvelous collection of miniature figures of soldiers from various armies across the globe.

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.

The Royal Basilica and Convent is one of the biggest neoclassical monuments of Lisbon as well as the city’s most eye-catching landmark. The basilica was built in the second half of the 18th century to fulfill a vow by Queen Maria I whose tomb also lies within the monument alongside a spectacular Christmas manger that comprises over 500 figures.

Explore the ruins of this Gothic church that are a poignant reminder of the massive 18th century earthquake when this was the largest church in Lisbon. The place where the main altar once was, there is now a small archaeological museum which houses a collection of tombs, statuary, ceramics, and mosaics. There are several other noteworthy pieces that are preserved here making it one of the important Portugal places to visit.

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 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.

Built between 1735 and 1748, the Clérgios church has been constructed in a Baroque style of architecture. The Clérgios tower stands on top of the church making it one of the most notable monuments in the city. The complex was commissioned by the Brotherhood of the Clérigos in the Old Town in an area where executed prisoners were buried. 

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

The Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) in Évora, Portugal, is a macabre yet fascinating site built in the 16th century by Franciscan monks. Located within the Church of St. Francis, the chapel's interior is adorned with the bones and skulls of an estimated 5,000 individuals, arranged in intricate patterns along the walls and columns

The Church of St. Francis, located in the historic city of Évora, Portugal, is a magnificent example of Gothic and Manueline architecture. Built between the late 15th and early 16th centuries, the church is renowned for its impressive facade and richly decorated interior. The exterior features ornate portals, pinnacles, and intricate stone carvings that reflect the Manueline style, a distinctive Portuguese architectural style that incorporates maritime elements and elaborate ornamentation.

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.

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. 

The Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, is one of Portugal's most well-preserved and significant historical monuments. Located in the heart of Évora's historic center, this ancient temple dates back to the first century AD and is a testament to the city's Roman heritage. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Augustus, the temple originally served as a place of worship, possibly dedicated to the Roman goddess Diana, although this is not definitively proven.

Casa de Lúcia Fátima, located in the serene town of Fátima, Portugal, is a charming guesthouse known for its warm hospitality and tranquil atmosphere. Just a short walk from the renowned Sanctuary of Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites, this accommodation offers a peaceful retreat for pilgrims and travelers alike. The guesthouse features comfortable, well-appointed rooms designed to provide a relaxing stay, with modern amenities and a homely touch. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning, often featuring local specialties, to start their day on a delightful note.

The friendly staff at Casa de Lúcia Fátima are dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay, offering personalized service and helpful recommendations for exploring the area. Whether visiting for spiritual reasons or to experience the cultural and natural beauty of Fátima, guests will appreciate the convenience and comfort of this welcoming guesthouse. Its proximity to religious sites, shops, and restaurants makes it an ideal base for discovering all that Fátima has to offer.

The historic center of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and nature. Located in the foothills of the Serra de Sintra mountains, this charming town is known for its picturesque streets, palaces, and gardens, creating a fairy-tale ambiance that has inspired writers, artists, and poets for centuries.

Cabo da Roca, or Cape Roca, is a significant cape located in the municipality of Sintra, Portugal. It marks the westernmost point of the Sintra Mountain Range, mainland Portugal, continental Europe, and the Eurasian landmass. Known to the Romans as Promontorium Magnum, it has been an important geographical landmark for centuries.

Alfama District is Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, a maze of narrow cobblestone streets and ancient houses that survived the 1755 earthquake. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Tagus River, this former Moorish quarter enchants visitors with its fado music, traditional taverns, tile-adorned buildings, and stunning miradouros (viewpoints). The atmospheric neighborhood blends authentic local life with historic landmarks like São Jorge Castle and Lisbon Cathedral.

Francisco and Jacinta’s House in Aljustrel, Portugal, is the preserved childhood home of Saints Francisco and Jacinta Marto, two of the three shepherd children who witnessed the Marian apparitions at Fátima in 1917. The simple, whitewashed house offers visitors a glimpse into their humble life, featuring original furnishings and artifacts that reflect their deep faith and devotion.

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima