Historic cities, bewitching beaches, beautiful sea side towns and a vibrant gastronomic scene make Portugal one of the most popular destinations to visit during summer. The country is particularly popular with tourists from America with a staggering 2.3 million US tourists visiting Portugal in 2024 which accounted for an increase of almost 12% from the previous year. With eclectic sights spanning art, culture, history and religion, Portugal continues to be a firm favourite with travellers from the USA. So, if you are looking to visit the Portuguese Republic this summer, here is a lowdown on some of the best places to see in this European country.
Lisbon: a city that has something for everyone, the capital city of Portugal promises its visitors magnificent monuments, insightful museums, historic churches, castles, Insta worthy neighbourhoods, charming cafes and serene beaches. Start your tour by visiting the city’s landmark sites which include the Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. The 16th century Belem Tower is an ode to the Portuguese explorers who were known for their maritime exploits which cemented the Portugal as a colonial power in Europe. Built in the Portuguese Manueline style of architecture with distinct Moorish influences, the tower which was a ceremonial entry point into Lisbon is a UNESCO World heritage site along with the Jerónimos Monastery. The latter is again a stunning spectacle built in the Portuguese Gothic Manueline style of architecture and dates back to the 16th century. The complex consists of the church and cloisters and is a symbol of Portuguese history and culture.
If churches are something that fascinate you, the Lisbon Cathedral which is the oldest in the city must be on your list. The architecture of the building coupled with its exquisite stained-glass windows and central nave is noteworthy. The church is also the place where Saint Anthony was baptized and it is fitting that the church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon is located right next to the Lisbon Cathedral.
Lisbon does not disappoint if you have museum hopping on your agenda. Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art as well as the Fado Museum, if art and culture is your beat. The National Tile Museum showcases the history of the Portuguese Azulejo (tile) that is intrinsic to the country’s culture.
Beyond sightseeing, Lisbon’s neighbourhoods are a great idea to explore. Ride the iconic Tram 28 that takes you on a memorable trip across the cities winding alleys. The oldest book store Livraria Bertrand in Chiado, sampling Pasteis de nata, or Portuguese custard tarts in Pastéis de Belém and strolling around the bustling Rossio square are some of the best things to do in the capital. The city has great night life and you can head to the Pink and Green streets to enjoy the vibe of the city.
Sintra: One of the most popular and picturesque towns located just over 20 miles from Lisbon, Sintra is known for its palaces, gardens and thick lush greenery. This erstwhile retreat of the Portuguese royals is again a UNESCO world heritage site and is often touted as the capital of Romanticism. Sintra can be explored in a day if you are short of time although it is recommended to stay at least for a couple of days to soak in the essence of this idyllic town. Start your trip by visiting the Sintra National Palace which is one of the best preserved medieval royal residences in the country. The striking house has twin cone shaped chimneys and dates back to the days when the region was ruled by the Moors.
However, the present-day building dates to the 15th-16th century. A short walk from this palace is the Quinta da Regaleira which is a magical villa replete with a stunning garden filled with fountains, statues and an enigmatic well. The palace today plays hosts to events like concerts and music and dance festivals. No visit to Sintra is complete without a stop at the Pena palace which is a magnificent castle built in the Portuguese Romanticism style with influences from Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline and Neo-Moorish elements schools of design. The palace has several striking elements which include its own well-preserved cloister, the chapel altarpiece and the Triton arch at the entrance apart from the luxuriously decorated rooms filled with regal furniture, porcelain, chandeliers, paintings and the like.
Fatima: Located just under 80 miles from Lisbon, is Fatima which is a world-renowned Catholic pilgrimage site. It was here on 13-May-1917 that three children, Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta who were tending to sheep witnessed the apparition of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, who appeared behind an oak tree. This happened for the next five months, each time on the 13th and finally people were convinced of the miracle. The town has grown exponentially since then and is today visited by Catholics, devotees and tourists from all over. The complex has two chapels apart from the original Chapel of Apparitions which is rather small and marks the place where Mary first appeared. There is a dedicated place to burn candles as well as a smooth path where several devotees walk on their knees as a symbol of their faith. Apart from the church complex, the town is teeming with hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops where you can pick up rosary beads, figurines of Mary and other artefacts.
Nazare: A coastal town located in the Oeste region of Portugal, Nazare was an erstwhile fishing village. Today the town is known for its surfing scene considering its coastline churns one of the highest waves in the world and hence is a haven for surfers and adventure junkies.
The town itself is comprised of three neighbourhoods: Praia which is along the beach, Sítio and Pederneira both of which are located on a hilltop. Take time to soak in the view of the sandy waters at Praia da Nazaré which is the vibrant beach area teeming with locals in traditional dresses selling souvenirs, snacks and pina colada. Nossa Senhora da Nazaré Sanctuary as well as Ermida da Memória are two important pilgrimage sites. Apart from this, Nazare is a great place to just slow down and enjoy views of the sea while sampling some of town’s signature sea food which includes all kinds of fish varieties.
Obidos: Just over 50 miles from Lisbon is one of Portugal’s most beautiful towns, Obidos. Dating back to the Roman period, Obidos is one of the best-preserved medieval towns of Europe. Teeming with boutique cafes, idyllic houses with gardens and Gothic churches, Obidos is known for its old-world vibe. The city which is surrounded by fortified walls is also known for its books stores that are housed in churches, wine cellars and even supermarkets. Best explored on foot, Obidos is a great place to pick up hand painted tiles, ceramics and even food souvenirs like cookies, olive oil and Ginjinha (which is a local Portuguese drink).
