The Top 10 Prettiest Cities in Portugal to Explore

Portugal is a hidden gem in Europe, with its charming towns, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, you won’t want to miss its prettiest cities. From the historic and romantic streets of Lisbon to the colorful tiles of Porto, Portugal has plenty of beautiful cities to explore. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 prettiest cities in Portugal that you won’t want to miss.

The Top 10 Prettiest Cities in Portugal to Explore

Lisbon – The Capital City

Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, known for its beautiful streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. The city is built on seven hills, with stunning views of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean. Here are some must-see attractions in Lisbon:

• Belem Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in the 16th century to protect Lisbon from invaders.
• Alfama: A historic district with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and traditional Fado music.
• Jeronimos Monastery: A beautiful Gothic-style monastery that was built in the 16th century.
• Sao Jorge Castle: A Moorish castle that was built in the 11th century and offers panoramic views of the city.

Porto – The City of Bridges

Porto is a coastal city in northern Portugal, known for its colorful buildings, historic landmarks, and famous port wine. The city is also known as the “City of Bridges” because of its six iconic bridges that span the Douro River. Here are some must-see attractions in Porto:

• Ribeira: A historic district with colorful buildings, narrow streets, and traditional Rabelo boats.
• Clerigos Tower: A Baroque-style tower that offers panoramic views of the city.
• Palacio da Bolsa: A 19th-century stock exchange building that features a stunning Arabian Room.
• Sao Francisco Church: A Gothic-style church that is known for its ornate interior.

Sintra – The Fairytale Town

Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon, known for its beautiful palaces, gardens, and castles. The town is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Here are some must-see attractions in Sintra:

• Pena Palace: A colorful palace that was built in the 19th century and features a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles.
• Quinta da Regaleira: A 20th-century palace that is known for its beautiful gardens and underground tunnels.
• Castle of the Moors: A medieval castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Monserrate Palace: A beautiful palace that is surrounded by lush gardens and exotic plants.

Coimbra – The University Town

Coimbra is a historic city located in central Portugal, known for its beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and prestigious university. The city has a rich cultural heritage and was the birthplace of six kings of Portugal. Here are some must-see attractions in Coimbra:

• University of Coimbra: One of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1290.
• Biblioteca Joanina: A Baroque-style library that is known for its ornate interior and beautiful ceiling.
• Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha: A medieval monastery that was destroyed by a flood in the 17th century and later restored.

Lagos – The Coastal Getaway

Lagos is a coastal town located in the Algarve region of Portugal, known for its beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming historic center. The town is a popular destination for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts, with plenty of activities to do such as surfing, kayaking, and boat trips. Here are some must-see attractions in Lagos:

• Praia Dona Ana: A stunning beach with crystal clear waters and golden sands.
• Ponta da Piedade: A natural wonder that features impressive rock formations and sea caves.
• Lagos Old Town: A historic center with narrow streets, traditional buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
• Lagos Marina: A modern marina that offers a variety of water sports and boat tours.

Evora – The Walled City

Evora is a small town located in the Alentejo region of Portugal, known for its well-preserved medieval walls, historic landmarks, and cultural heritage. The town has a unique charm and tranquility that makes it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Here are some must-see attractions in Evora:

• Temple of Diana: A Roman temple that dates back to the 1st century and is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Portugal.
• Cathedral of Evora: A Gothic-style cathedral that was built in the 13th century and features a stunning rose window.
• Capela dos Ossos: A chapel that is decorated with human bones and skulls, and was built in the 16th century as a reminder of the transience of life.
• Almendres Cromlech: A megalithic monument that dates back to the Neolithic period and is one of the largest and best-preserved in Europe.

Guimaraes – The Birthplace of Portugal

Guimaraes is a historic city located in the north of Portugal, known for its beautiful architecture, medieval castle, and cultural significance as the birthplace of Portugal. The city has a rich history and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Here are some must-see attractions in Guimaraes:

• Guimaraes Castle: A medieval castle that was built in the 10th century and offers stunning views of the city.
• Palace of the Dukes of Braganza: A beautiful Renaissance-style palace that was built in the 15th century and now serves as a museum.
• Santa Maria Street: A charming street that is lined with traditional buildings and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
• Oliveira Square: A picturesque square that features a beautiful fountain and is surrounded by historic buildings.

Aveiro – The Venice of Portugal

Aveiro is a coastal city located in central Portugal, known for its colorful houses, canals, and traditional boats called “Moliceiros”. The city has a unique charm that has earned it the nickname “Venice of Portugal”. Here are some must-see attractions in Aveiro:

• Costa Nova: A beachside neighborhood that is known for its colorful striped houses and fresh seafood.
• Moliceiros Ride: A traditional boat tour that takes visitors along the city’s canals and offers a unique perspective of the city.
• Aveiro Cathedral: A Gothic-style cathedral that was built in the 15th century and features a beautiful rose window.
• Museu de Aveiro: A museum that is housed in a former convent and features a collection of art and artifacts related to the city’s history and culture.

Viana do Castelo – The Seaside Town

Viana do Castelo is a picturesque town located in the north of Portugal, known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is situated on the banks of the Lima River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Here are some must-see attractions in Viana do Castelo:

• Basilica of Santa Luzia: A Neo-Byzantine-style basilica that was built in the early 20th century and offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape.
• Praia do Cabedelo: A popular beach that is known for its strong winds and waves, making it a great destination for surfing and windsurfing.
• Centro Historico: A historic center that is home to traditional buildings, cobblestone streets, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
• Gil Eannes Museum Ship: A decommissioned hospital ship that has been turned into a museum and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of Portuguese fishermen.

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