It is very common for people to start their tourist experiences in Europe from the cities of Portugal, because, besides being simply beautiful and passionate, the country is also a not very expensive destination in terms of lodging, food, and sightseeing.
If this is your case, it is important to know that Portugal is a small nation in size, but huge in territorial divisions. There, besides the cities, there are the so-called "national regions" and "sub-regions". And the coolest thing is that each place you visit has unique characteristics, even though they belong to the same country.
Are you planning to visit the Lusitanian soils soon? Then it's a good thing you've come this far because we, from Happy Tours, have compiled information about the five most incredible cities that you won't regret visiting on your trip to the lands of Fernando Pessoa, Eça de Queiroz and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Let's meet them!
Which cities should I visit in Portugal?
The main places that, without a doubt, will stay forever in your memory when visiting Portugal are:
-
Lisbon;
-
Port;
-
Braga;
-
Coimbra;
-
Faro.
Each of these cities has its own particular charms. Some are more lively, others are quieter and cozier, which makes it possible for different audiences to enjoy their time there in the best way.
1. The capital, Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital and largest city in the country. Full of colors and flavors, the city has hills from which it is possible to have a wide and panoramic view of the region.
The various neighborhoods give a special touch to the place and are full of beautiful tiles distributed among the buildings, the slopes, and the houses that have doors facing the street and each one has its own color.
During the day, you can take the opportunity to visit the sights and understand a little more about its history. There you will find the Torre de Belém, the Praça do Comércio and Rossio, the Arco da Augusta, the Castelo de São Jorge, the Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora, the Ascensor da Bica, where you can see and photograph the famous cable cars.
The nightlife also deserves attention. There are many charming little bars, bossa nova style bars and nightclubs. The good thing about the city is that a great number of these establishments are concentrated in the central region of the city, allowing you to visit them easily.
See more tips on what to do in Lisbon.
2. Porto: the city bathed by the Atlantic
Porto lies on the banks of the Douro River and is simply a show apart!
The many colorful streets, the mansions, the historic center, and the sunset form a complete harmony that will take your breath away.
Able to unite the modern with the classic, Porto is a reference not only for its architecture, but also for its gastronomy, so be sure to try the wine and dishes from the north of Portugal when you go there.
Some of the historical points that you will be enchanted by are: São Bento station, the historical center, Praça da Liberdade, Sé Cathedral, Capela das Almas, São Francisco Church, among others. If you are a reading lover, be sure to go to the Lello Bookstore.
You can also visit the D. Luís I Bridge, Rua das Flores, and the Ribeira do Porto Wharf.
3. Braga: the most charming!
From Porto, you can do a round trip to Braga. The city is the oldest and being there you can enjoy a tour of several beautiful and delicate churches, museums and incredible and well kept gardens.
The city is a reference in religious studies and has the University of Minho located in its territory.
Visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, whose architecture is very interesting, the Cathedral Church of Braga, the Raio Palace, the Santa Bárbara Garden, the Image Museum, the Biscainhos Museum, and the beautiful Rua do Souto.
See also: Tours in Portugal - learn about different alternatives ranging from beaches to cultural tours.
4. The Coimbra poetics
When one speaks of Coimbra, of course, the famous University of Coimbra immediately comes to mind, a reference around the world due to its quality of education. However, the city goes much further.
Full of traditions, Roman ruins and busy streets, the city of Coimbra has several museums and the Mondego River, which crosses the city. Being a university center, you will find students with the black cape everywhere and in May, there is the Queima das Fitas, a super cool festival that brings students together in the streets to celebrate the end of the academic year.
It is worth visiting the Monastery of Santa Cruz, the beautiful Old Cathedral of Coimbra, the Quinta das Lágrimas, the Convent of Santa Clara, the Botanical Garden and the São Sebastião Aqueduct, the mini world Portugal dos Pequeninos and the Biblioteca Joanina in Coimbra.
5. Faro: the most touristic
Faro is a treasure trove not so much explored by tourists, which is a shame because the coastal city has beautiful beaches and a historic center with a unique look, with a mixture of Greece and the European touch.
With excellent restaurant options and various attractions such as boat trips, visits to the hills full of castles and much more. Whether you want to relax in nature or contemplate the beauty of the place, we guarantee: Faro will not disappoint you!
Do you know the importance of travel insurance in Europe? Access our content and understand more about it!
How to rent a car to move around Portugal?
As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, Portugal is not a large country, however, there are many divisions. Therefore, in order for you to get to know and discover the best that each of these five cities has to offer, it is worth investing in an efficient, safe and practical means of transportation.
So, even though Portugal has public transportation and there are alternative means of transport, we believe it is essential that the trips around the cities be made by car so that you can elaborate your itinerary in a personalized and optimized way according to your personal taste and, in this way, get the most out of it.
Happy Tours is a reference in car rental in Portugal and can provide a hassle-free and comfortable trip.
Well, now you can include the suggestions of cities in Portugal in your travel planning and get ready to collect photos, experiences, and memories. See you soon!
