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There are an array of landmarks in Europe
to see, with Portugal sharing quite a few of those!Portugal is a land of rich history and culture, reflected in its stunning landmarks that stand as testaments of time.
From the towering castles atop rolling hillsides to the grand palaces that grace the cities, Portugal offers a vivid tapestry of landmarks that inspire awe and capture the essence of its heritage.
1. Belem Tower – Lisbon
Belem Tower is an iconic monument located on the bank of the Tagus River in Lisbon.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy stunning views of the river and surrounding area.
Inside the tower, there are various exhibitions and displays that showcase the history and significance of the tower and its connection to Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a leisurely stroll along the river and explore the nearby cultural landmarks such as the Jerónimos Monastery and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries).
Insider travel tips: The Belem Tower can get quite busy during peak tourist season, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid long lines.
Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of walking involved in exploring the area. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the tower is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
2. Jeronimos Monastery – Lisbon
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning late-Gothic architecture of the monastery, visit the tomb of explorer Vasco da Gama, and explore the adjacent museum which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Age of Discovery.
Don’t miss: The intricate stone carvings and ornate details on the exterior of the monastery, as well as the cloisters which feature stunning vaulted ceilings.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and avoid the heat. Consider purchasing a combination ticket which includes admission to both the monastery and the nearby Tower of Belem.
Also, be sure to bring comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
3. Sao Jorge Castle – Lisbon
A historic castle located atop a hill in the heart of Lisbon.
What to see or do: Take a tour of the castle’s interior to learn about its rich history, explore the scenic ramparts for stunning panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River, and visit the onsite archaeology museum.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to watch the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place at the entrance gate every day.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds, wear comfortable shoes as there are steep hills and stairs to climb, and don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views of the city.
4. Pena Palace – Sintra
Pena Palace is a magnificent palace located in Sintra, Portugal.
What to see or do: The palace is a stunning example of Romanticism architecture, with bright and bold colors and intricate designs. Visitors can explore the palace’s impressive rooms, including the Arab Room and the Queen’s Throne Room.
The palace also boasts beautiful gardens that offer panoramic views of Sintra.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Pena Palace is its colorful exterior, which features a mix of yellows, pinks, and blues, and is visible from all around the surrounding countryside.
Be sure to take a picture in front of the iconic Palace archway.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.
5. Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra
A historic estate located in Sintra, Portugal.
What to see or do: Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, underground tunnels, lakes, fountains and unique architecture of the estate. Visit the palace that features a combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline architectural styles, with intricate carvings and ornate statues.
Don’t miss: The Initiation Well, a deep and mysterious inverted tower that was used for Tarot initiation rites. It features a spiral staircase, nine platforms, and several tunnels that lead to different parts of the estate.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Plan to spend at least half a day to fully explore the estate.
Avoid visiting during peak hours as it can get crowded. If possible, visit in the morning when the light is best for photos.
6. Palace of the Dukes of Braganca – Guimaraes
Palace turned museum that served as the residence of the Dukes of Braganca.
What to see or do: Admire the lavish Baroque architecture and interior decorations of the palace, which include opulent furnishings, paintings, and tapestries. Learn about the history of the palace and the Braganca family through the museum’s exhibits.
Don’t miss: The Palace Chapel, which features beautiful azulejo tiles and intricate woodcarvings. Also, make sure to take a stroll through the palace’s charming gardens.
Insider travel tips: Consider purchasing a joint ticket to also visit the nearby Castle of Guimaraes, as both sites are significant to Portugal’s history and culture.
Additionally, try to avoid visiting on Mondays as the museum is closed.
7. Guimaraes Castle – Guimaraes
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s well-preserved walls, towers, and courtyards while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Admire the intricate stonework and architecture from different periods of history.
Don’t miss: The Paço dos Duques de Bragança, a palace adjacent to the castle that houses a fascinating museum about the history of the region and its nobility.
Visit the nearby church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit. Wear comfortable shoes as there are stairs and uneven surfaces to navigate.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the castle walls.
8. Bom Jesus do Monte – Braga
Bom Jesus do Monte is a sanctuary complex and pilgrimage site in Braga, Portugal, known for its grand Baroque staircase and stunning views.
What to see or do: Take the zigzagging staircase of 577 steps to the top or ride the funicular up to appreciate the intricate religious sculptures and architecture of the sanctuary.
Admire the serene gardens, lakes, and fountains throughout the complex.
Don’t miss: Marvel at the Via Sacra (Sacred Way), a tree-lined path with 14 chapels illustrating the Passion of Christ. At the top, the Bom Jesus Basilica houses a richly decorated interior with many works of art.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen if visiting during the summer months. For the best photo opportunity, visit during sunset for a spectacular view over Braga.
On the weekends and religious holidays, the stairs may become crowded, so plan accordingly.
9. Cathedral and Roman Temple – Evora
A UNESCO World Heritage site located in the historic city of Evora, Portugal.
The Cathedral and Roman Temple are two of the most iconic landmarks in the region, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
What to see or do: Marvel at the Gothic architecture of the Cathedral, which was built in the 12th century. Climb up to the rooftop for a stunning view of the city.
Explore the Roman Temple, which dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the country.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the famous Chapel of Bones located within the Cathedral. This macabre yet fascinating room is decorated with the bones of over 5,000 monks.
Insider travel tips:
10. Palace of the Kings of Navarre – Sintra
Palace of the Kings of Navarre, a historical palace located in Sintra, Portugal.
What to see or do: The Palace of the Kings of Navarre features a unique blend of Gothic and Manueline architectural styles, with intricate details and ornate decorations throughout.
Visitors can explore the palace’s grand halls, chapels, and gardens, taking in the rich history of the region along the way.
Don’t miss: The palace’s Throne Room, which features a stunning carved wooden ceiling and is said to be where King Sebastian of Portugal was born.
Also, be sure to see the palace’s chapel, which is adorned with beautiful frescoes and stained-glass windows.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit the Palace of the Kings of Navarre early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Additionally, the palace is located on a steep hillside, so comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds.
11. Palace of Estoi – Faro
A magnificent 19th-century palace located in the town of Estoi, near Faro in the Algarve region of Portugal.
What to see or do: The Palace of Estoi is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, featuring beautiful gardens, ornate fountains, and intricate tile work. Visitors can explore the palace’s intricately decorated rooms, including the ballroom, smoking room, and library.
There is also a stunning rooftop terrace where you can soak up views of the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the palace’s immaculately landscaped gardens, with their geometrically designed flower beds, ornamental fountains, and tranquil water features.
Insider travel tips: The Palace of Estoi is not as well-known as some of the other attractions in the Algarve region, so it’s often less crowded than other tourist hotspots.
If you’re interested in history and architecture, make sure you take a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating story of the palace and its owners.
12. National Palace of Mafra – Mafra
A Baroque palace and monastery located in the town of Mafra, Portugal.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive architecture and ornate decoration of the palace and monastery. Visit the library, one of the most significant in Europe, which holds over 36,000 rare books and manuscripts.
Explore the beautiful gardens and park surrounding the palace.
Don’t miss: The carillon, a musical instrument consisting of 98 bells, located in the north tower of the Basilica. It is the largest in the world and plays an automatic concert twice a day.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat during summer months. Wear comfortable shoes as the palace and monastery cover a vast area.
Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of the complex.
13. University of Coimbra – Coimbra
The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe and the oldest in Portugal, dating back to the 13th century.
What to see or do: You can visit the university’s stunning Baroque Library, which is home to over 300,000 ancient books and manuscripts, including priceless literary and scientific works.
Marvel at the intricate carvings and frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings of this magnificent space.
Take a guided tour of the campus and explore the historic buildings and chapels, including the Palace of Schools, the Joanina Library, and the Botanical Garden.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the academic procession of students dressed in black capes and hats, accompanied by the sounds of fado music, during the academic year opening ceremony.
Insider travel tips: The University of Coimbra is located on a hill, so be prepared for some uphill walking if you’re visiting on foot.
14. Palace of Monserrate – Sintra
The Palace of Monserrate is a romanticist palace located in the Sintra Mountains near Lisbon, Portugal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of 19th-century architectural and decorative arts.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the lush gardens of the palace and marvel at the eclectic mix of styles that make up the palace’s interior.
The palace’s impressive collection of artwork, furniture, and artifacts from around the world is sure to leave visitors in awe. Be sure to check out the inside of the palace for its intricate tilework, stained glass windows, and ornate plasterwork.
Don’t miss: The exotic gardens that surround the Palace of Monserrate are a must-see.
Visitors can explore the gardens’ winding paths, admire the collection of plants from around the world, and take in the stunning views of the Sintra Mountains.
Insider travel tips: Plan to arrive early in the day before the crowds start to arrive. The palace is closed on Tuesdays and has reduced hours in the winter months.
Take advantage of the guided tours offered by the palace to learn more about the history and architecture of this incredible site.
Don’t forget to bring your camera- there are plenty of photo opportunities at the Palace of Monserrate.
15. Convent of Christ – Tomar
Convent of Christ is part of the city of Tomar in central Portugal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a former castle built in the 12th century and later turned into a convent.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning architecture, intricate details, and rich history of the Convent of Christ.
Walk through the medieval cloisters and chapels, admire the Gothic and Manueline style of the buildings, and visit the Charola, a circular church that was once the Templar’s headquarters.
Don’t miss: The Portal of the South Window, which features ornate carvings and intricate details of the Kingdom of Portugal’s history, and the Chapter House, which houses a beautiful 16th-century painting by the Portuguese artist, Gregório Lopes.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. It’s also worth visiting the convent during the weekdays when it’s less crowded.
16. Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira – Lisbon
A 17th-century palace located in Lisbon, Portugal that is considered one of the finest examples of Portuguese Baroque architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace’s stunning interior, which features ornate gilded ceilings, intricate tile work, and an impressive collection of art and furniture.
The palace’s gardens are also a highlight, boasting beautifully landscaped terraces, fountains, and sculptures.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the palace’s impressive collection of azulejo tiles, which line many of the walls throughout the interior.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book a guided tour in advance to ensure availability.
Additionally, it’s worth taking the time to explore the surrounding neighborhood of São Domingos de Benfica, which is filled with charming shops and restaurants.
17. Mercado do Bolhão – Porto
What to see or do: Browse fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and other local specialties. Interact with the friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
Don’t miss: Sampling the local delicacies such as the famous francesinha sandwich or traditional pastries called pastel de nata.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning for the best selection of fresh products. Keep your belongings close as it can get crowded.
Take a break at one of the many small cafes and try the local espresso, known as bica.
18. Torres de Belem – Lisbon
What to see or do: Admire the unique Manueline architecture and intricate stone carvings on the facade of the tower. Take in the panoramic views of the river and surrounding area from the top of the tower.
Don’t miss: Exploring the nearby Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases a mix of Gothic and Manueline styles.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and purchase a combined ticket to also visit the monastery. Watch out for pickpockets in the area and keep your belongings secure.
19. Rossio Square – Lisbon
Rossio Square is a lively and historic town square located in the heart of Lisbon.
What to see or do: Visitors can take in the stunning architecture and beautiful fountains while enjoying a coffee or a meal at one of the many cafes or restaurants surrounding the square.
It’s also a great place to people watch or catch a street performance.
Don’t miss: Be sure to admire the statue of Pedro IV, the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil, which stands in the center of the square.
Also, check out some of the historic buildings, such as the Estação do Rossio train station.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the early morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll around the square. Be aware of pickpockets in the area, especially during peak tourist seasons.
20. Praça do Giraldo – Evora
Praça do Giraldo is a historical square located in the heart of the city of Évora, Portugal.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the Church of Santo Antão and the 16th-century fountain.
It’s a great spot to people-watch from one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the square or to pick up some souvenirs from the nearby shops.
Don’t miss: The monument in the center of the square honors the Portuguese soldier and national hero, Geraldo Sem Pavor, who led a successful battle against the Moors in the 12th century.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square in the early morning or late evening for a more peaceful and authentic experience. Try the traditional pastry, “pão de rala,” at one of the bakeries nearby.
21. Church of Sao Francisco – Porto
Church of Sao Francisco is a Gothic church located in Porto, Portugal.
What to see or do: The church is renowned for its ornate Baroque interior, which is considered one of the most magnificent in Europe.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate gold carvings, vivid paintings, and stunning sculptures that adorn the walls, altars, and ceilings of the church.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the church is the catacombs, which house the remains of prominent members of the Franciscan order.
The site also boasts a museum with exhibits featuring items of religious significance.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in getting an in-depth look at the church’s history and architecture, opt for a guided tour. Additionally, try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long wait times.
Photography is not permitted inside the church, so be sure to capture any memories outside.
22. Dom Luis I Bridge – Porto
What to see or do: Take a stroll across the bridge for stunning views of the city and the Douro River.
You can also take a river cruise or enjoy a glass of Port wine at one of the many riverside bars and restaurants.
Don’t miss: Sunset views from the upper deck of the bridge are breathtaking. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the cityscape.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, cross the bridge on the lower deck where you can watch the hustle and bustle of the city’s port district.
Also, avoid walking on the bridge on weekends as it can get quite crowded.
23. Castle of Santa Maria da Feira – Santa Maria da Feira
Castle of Santa Maria da Feira is a medieval castle situated in the city of Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal. This is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in Portugal.
What to see or do: Explore the castle and its walls, which house exhibitions, museums, and archaeological sites. You can also walk around the castle keep, formal gardens, and playground.
Don’t miss: The medieval fair, which is held every year in August and is one of the largest and most popular events in the region.
During the fair, the castle is transformed into a bustling medieval village with actors, musicians, and artisans in period costumes.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
24. Arrábida Bridge – Porto
Arrábida Bridge is a stunning bridge that spans the Douro River in Porto, Portugal.
What to see or do: The bridge itself is a marvel of engineering and architecture and makes for a wonderful sightseeing opportunity. You’ll be treated to incredible views of the city and the river below.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll along the bridge’s pedestrian walkway for an even more immersive experience.
Insider travel tips: For a unique perspective, consider taking a boat tour of the river.
This will give you a chance to see the bridge from a different angle and take in even more of Porto’s beauty.
25. Sanctuary of Fátima – Fátima
Sanctuary of Fátima is a Catholic pilgrimage site in Fátima, Portugal. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and attracts millions of visitors every year.
What to see or do: Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, attend mass in the Chapel of the Apparitions, walk through the Holy Trinity Church, see the Monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Berlin Wall Monument.
Don’t miss: The Candlelight Procession, held every night from May to October, and the annual pilgrimage on May 13th, the anniversary of the first apparition of the Virgin Mary.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
26. Cais da Ribeira – Porto
Cais da Ribeira is a historic riverfront promenade in Porto, Portugal.
What to see or do: ● Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the picturesque views of the colorful buildings, boats and bridges.
Don’t miss: ● Watching the sunset over the Douro River while sipping on a glass of Port wine.
Insider travel tips: ● Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.
27. Palace of Sintras – Sintra
A majestic palace located atop a hill in the town of Sintra, Portugal. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate details of the palace’s interior and exterior. Take a walk around the palace’s expansive gardens and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The iconic twin chimneys of the palace, the ornate Throne Room, and the grand ballroom featuring an impressive crystal chandelier.
Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets in advance as this is a popular tourist destination.
28. Olhanense Municipal Museum – Olhao
The Olhanense Municipal Museum is a historical and cultural museum located in the town of Olhao, in the Algarve region of Portugal.
What to see or do: The museum has several permanent exhibitions showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the region.
Visitors can see artifacts and displays related to maritime activities, fishing, farming, and local crafts, such as basket weaving, pottery, and lace making.
Don’t miss: The highlights of the museum include the exhibits on the traditional houses, which showcase the architecture, furniture, and household items of the 19th century in the Algarve.
Also, don’t miss the archaeological section, which displays Roman artifacts found in the region.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
29. Palace of Brejoeira – Moncao
The Palace of Brejoeira is a palace located in Moncao, Portugal. It was built in the 18th century and is one of the most significant examples of Neoclassical architecture in Portugal.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the palace’s ornate interior, including its grand ballroom, drawing room, and impressive library. The palace also features stunning gardens, fountains, and a beautiful lake.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to attend one of the many events that take place at the Palace of Brejoeira throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and food and wine festivals.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit the Palace of Brejoeira during the summer months, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes, as the heat and humidity can be intense.
Also, be sure to check the palace’s website for event schedules and ticket prices, as they can vary throughout the year.
30. Monastery of Santa Cruz – Coimbra
The Monastery of Santa Cruz is a magnificent monastery, church and national monument located in the heart of Coimbra, Portugal.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the monastery, admire the intricate sculptural work on the facades, and marvel at the beautiful cloisters of the church.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the tomb of King Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, located inside the church.
The tombs of other Portuguese monarchs can also be found here.
Insider travel tips: Visit the monastery early in the day to avoid large crowds.
For the best experience, opt for a guided tour or pick up an audio guide to learn more about the history and architecture of the monastery.