Top 7 Cities To Visit In Portugal In 2025

Lisbon and Porto may get a lot of love, but Portugal offers far more than its charming historic cities. From golden beaches and towering mountain peaks to green river valleys, each region of this small Iberian country has its own unique attractions and diverse highlights. 

Located between the airports of Oporto and Lisbon, the Centre of Portugal region is like an enchanting postcard representing the whole country.

The main feature of this beautiful region is its variety. The landscapes change constantly: there are endless beaches facing the Atlantic, great spots for surfing, the unique Aveiro Lagoon, Serra da Estrela, which is Portugal’s highest mountain, 12 Historical Villages, 27 Schist Villages, mountain villages, 4 natural parks, 5 natural reserves, 2 protected areas, several thermal stations, and 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The Centre of Portugal is also home to Fátima, one of the most important Catholic shrines in the world. The University of Coimbra, one of the world’s most prestigious universities, is a symbol of knowledge and cultural identity. Surrounded by medieval walls, the charming town of Óbidos is a paradise for book and chocolate lovers.

There are so many reasons to visit the Centre of Portugal. It’s away from the crowds, making it the perfect place to relax and focus on what really matters.

Cities to visit in Portugal in 2025

1. Óbidos 

Óbidos is a historic town located on a hilltop. Its cobbled streets are lined with whitewashed houses decorated with colourful flowers, creating a charming atmosphere. Óbidos hosts several annual festivals, such as the medieval fair with jousting and Folio, Portugal’s largest international literature festival. 

Many years ago, it was a tradition for Portuguese kings to give Óbidos as a wedding gift to their queens. While this tradition no longer exists, the romantic charm of Óbidos remains. Its whitewashed cottages with colourful flowers, terracotta roofs, narrow streets, and grand medieval walls continue to captivate visitors.

Óbidos offers much more than just beautiful scenery. The town is full of souvenir shops and handicraft stores where visitors can find unique items, including bottles of its famous cherry liqueur, Ginja de Óbidos.

Those who love traditional Portuguese tiles will enjoy visiting the Igreja De Santa Maria. This church has an impressive interior decorated with blue and white azulejos (glazed tiles) from the 17th century. Art lovers can explore the Museu Municipal de Óbidos in the main square, which features works by the 17th-century artist Josefa de Óbidos.

Óbidos is only an hour’s drive north of Lisbon, making it an ideal day trip. The nearby areas are also worth exploring. The charming fishing port of Peniche and the relaxing beaches of Lagoa de Óbidos are lovely options for extending the visit.

Although small, Óbidos is one of the most romantic places in Portugal. It is a laid-back destination full of character and history, perfect for those seeking a unique and peaceful experience.

2. Lisbon 

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a lively mix of history and modern life. Famous attractions include the hilltop São Jorge Castle, the narrow streets of the Alfama district, and the beautiful azulejo tiles at the National Tile Museum. In recent years, Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has become one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations – and it’s easy to see why.

Situated along the River Tagus and surrounded by seven stunning hills, Lisbon is as beautiful as it is charming. But beyond its dramatic scenery, the city offers a mix of fascinating history, striking architecture, a relaxed lifestyle, and warm, pleasant weather.

For history lovers, there is no shortage of things to do. Visitors can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and Torre de Belém. The impressive Castelo de São Jorge, perched high above the city, is another must-see, along with the ancient Alfama district, known for its winding streets and traditional charm.

Strolling through Lisbon’s cobbled lanes and mosaic walkways is an essential part of any visit. Each turn might lead to a white-domed cathedral, a grand square lined with trees, or a modern riverside promenade.

Food enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Lisbon. The city is famous for pasteis de nata (custard tarts) and bacalhau (dried, salted cod). There are countless cafes and excellent restaurants to enjoy a meal, along with the local Sagres beer for a refreshing break.

As night falls, the streets of Lisbon come alive with energy. The smell of delicious food fills the air, and traditional Fado music echoes from busy restaurants and bars. For those who enjoy design, a visit to pick up a traditional Portuguese tile as a souvenir is a perfect way to remember the trip.

3. Sintra 

Just an hour from Lisbon, Sintra feels like a fairy tale come to life. Its famous landmarks include the colourful Pena Palace, the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle. Its colourful, Disney-like castles, bright green gardens, and pink and yellow houses make it feel like a fairy tale. It’s even said that Hans Christian Andersen, who once lived in a house in the woods here, may have been inspired by this magical place.

Sintra is a dream for history lovers and fans of architecture. There are many amazing historic buildings to explore. Highlights include the Palácio Nacional, the best-preserved medieval royal palace in Portugal, and the ancient Castle of the Moors, which stretches dramatically across a hillside.

For those who enjoy hiking, the Serra de Sintra mountains offer several walking trails, though the steep paths around the city can be tough. However, the effort is worth it, as the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the charming town of Cascais in the distance are absolutely breathtaking.

Sintra is close enough to Lisbon to visit as a day trip, which can be a good idea if avoiding crowds is a priority. Staying in the city is also an option, but a day trip offers a quieter experience.

4. Évora 

Located in the Alentejo region, Évora is a treasure trove of historical sites. Its medieval walls enclose landmarks like the Roman Temple, the Cathedral of Évora, and the eerie Chapel of Bones. 

Surrounded by medieval walls, Évora is full of fascinating history and well-preserved architecture. It’s no surprise that the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can find Roman temples from the second century, winding Moorish alleys, and a grand medieval cathedral. Évora is a wonderful place to explore Portugal’s rich past.

One of its most unusual attractions is the Capela dos Ossos, a chapel from the 16th century decorated with bones, skulls, and even whole skeletons. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but fans of dark tourism find it unforgettable.

The city’s main square also has a grim history, linked to the Spanish Inquisition. However, today it is a vibrant space filled with open-air cafés where people can enjoy a meal or a drink in the sunshine.

Beyond its history, Évora has much to offer. Its Moorish alleys are perfect for wandering, and there are many shops to browse. The city is also known for its delicious traditional Alentejan food, served in its excellent restaurants.

Outside Évora, there are even more attractions, including ancient stone circles, charming wineries, and castle-topped villages. These make for fantastic day trips and give visitors plenty of reasons to stay longer.

5. Porto 

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is known for its romantic riverside setting and historic charm. The Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideal for strolling among baroque churches and lively squares. 

Smaller and more compact than Lisbon, Porto is easy to explore. A long weekend is enough to enjoy the city and visit its most popular sights. Unlike Lisbon, Porto doesn’t get too crowded in the busy summer months, making it a great choice for a relaxing trip.

Porto’s baroque churches and neoclassical buildings make it a dream destination for architecture lovers. Highlights include the slender Torre dos Clérigos, the historic Sé Cathedral, and the famous double-decked iron bridge, Ponte Dom Luís I. This bridge spans the River Douro and connects the city to the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Porto is also a paradise for food lovers. The city’s cuisine is some of the best in Portugal. Popular dishes include aletria, a dessert similar to rice pudding but made with angel hair pasta; francesinha, a baked ham and steak sandwich covered in melted cheese; and Queijo da Serra da Estrela, a rich and creamy cheese.

The port is the city’s most famous export and a key reason to visit. Wine lovers will also enjoy the Douro Valley’s vineyards, which are just a short drive from the city. This combination of history, food, and drink makes Porto a special destination.

6. Coimbra 

Portugal is full of history, with many Roman, Moorish, and medieval ruins and buildings to explore.

One of the most historically important places in the country is Coimbra, located in central Portugal. Known as the university city, Coimbra was also the medieval capital for 100 years. It is a place where ancient history meets modern ideas.

The old university, perched on a hilltop, is a major tourist attraction. Its stunning Baroque library, Biblioteca Joanina, is famous for its frescoed ceilings, gilded details, and marbled wood. It is often called one of the world’s most beautiful libraries.

The university campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perfect for a day of exploration. Climbing to the top of the clock tower offers incredible views, and the 12th-century Sé Velha Cathedral is a must-see.

Around Coimbra, there are plenty of Roman, Moorish, and medieval ruins, as well as two old convents and the Igreja de Santa Cruz, where Portugal’s first king is buried.

Coimbra also features several interesting museums and a lovely botanical garden. Alongside its history, the city has a lively nightlife, authentic culture, and delicious food. For those who enjoy Fado music, Coimbra is an excellent place to experience it while having a meal and some drinks.

7. Tavira

Located on both sides of the Rio Gilão, Tavira is a relaxed town that has managed to keep its unique character and charm. It’s an ideal place for a calm and authentic Portuguese holiday.

Tavira is rich in history, with a hilltop castle, an old Roman footbridge that links the two parts of the town, and many Gothic and Renaissance churches. The Igreja de Santa do Castelo, where warrior knights are buried, is especially interesting. The town also has a great museum, the Núcleo Islâmico, where visitors can see a rare 11th-century vase.

Tavira is perfect for wandering around. The narrow, cobbled streets hide shady gardens and lovely squares. The waterfront is also a great place for a walk, as well as the lively fishing port and the modern market.

If a beach day is desired, Tavira is just 3km from the coast. The peaceful, unspoilt beaches of Ilha de Tavira are only a short boat ride away and offer a quiet escape during the busy summer months.

Final thoughts 

Portugal’s cities and regions offer something for everyone, from historical sites and natural beauty to vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences. Whether exploring Óbidos’s ancient streets, tasting wine in the Douro Valley, or relaxing on a beach in Setúbal, 2025 is an excellent year to discover Portugal’s diverse charm. With its warm hospitality and rich culture, Portugal remains one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.

Himani Verma

Himani Verma is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert, with experience in digital media. She has held various senior writing positions at enterprises like CloudTDMS (Synthetic Data Factory), Barrownz Group, and ATZA. Himani has also been Editorial Writer at Hindustan Time, a leading Indian English language news platform. She excels in content creation, proofreading, and editing, ensuring that every piece is polished and impactful. Her expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content for multiple verticals of businesses, including technology, healthcare, finance, sports, innovation, and more.