The Best Cities in Portugal: Which One Should You Visit?

Portugal is full of captivating cities, each with its own unique personality, blending history, culture, and beautiful scenery. While many focus their visits on Lisbon and Porto, there is more to be discovered in this diverse country. Here you can find sunny coastlines, medieval architecture and Roman ruins, lively nightlife, spectacular hiking trails, or quiet country escapes. We’ll give you insights into the top 4 cities in Portugal, as well as a handful of other great Portuguese cities to consider for your travels. For each, we’ll also share some of the top day trips to enjoy during your visit. This is the ultimate guide (with quiz) to help you discover the best cities in Portugal to match your travel style.

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New! Take the Quiz: What’s the Best City in Portugal for You?

Not sure where to start? Take our quick quiz to find your perfect match based on your travel interests, pace, and vibe.

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If you have the time, try to visit all of these wonderful cities!

1. Lisbon – Best for Culture, Cuisine, and Coastal Vibes

As Portugal’s lively capital, Lisbon is a city with striking views, soulful Fado music, and delicious food. In addition to the city, there are easy day trips by train or bus to visit castles or head to the beach to relax, surf, or go for hikes.

Why Visit Lisbon?

• Ride Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods including Alfama and Graça, enjoying the historic buildings and azulejos tiles;
• Take a tour through Belém, visiting landmarks like Belém Tower, Monument of Discoveries.  and Jerónimos Monastery, then sampling the delicious Pastéis de Nata;
• Enjoy waterfront walks and rooftop bars overlooking the Tagus River; take in the sunset while having dinner or a drink at the Doca Alcântara;
• Explore the LX Factory, spending time at the Ler Devagar bookstore;
• Dive into Lisbon’s culinary scene at spots like Time Out Market or the incredible Cervejaria Ramiro.

Lisbon is known for getting quite crowded. Explore some of the options for getting away from the crowds in Lisbon. If you’d prefer a quieter experience, Lisbon in winter may be an ideal for you, when there are the fewest visitors.

Top Day Trips from Lisbon

• Sintra – Palaces, castles, and misty mountains. Don’t miss a visit to Sintra’s coast, including the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar; Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in continental Europe; and for the adventurous, a hike down to Praia da Ursa.
• Cascais – Seaside charm and beaches. This former home to royalty and fishing village is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a day by the seaside.
• Évora – Roman ruins and countryside calm. This university town is filled with history and charm.
• Arrábida Natural Park – Cliffs, coves, and turquoise waters just south of Lisbon
• Óbidos – A fairy-tale walled town paired with stunning Silver Coast beaches and a lagoon for water sports. Pair this with a visit to neighboring Peniche, with its incredible surf beaches.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Looking for a boutique hotel right in the center of Baixa? Consider a stay at the Hotel da Baixa. For a more cost effective alternative, try the Lisbon Central Hostel, just steps from the Marquis of Pombal Square.

2. Porto – Best for Wine Lovers and Riverside Romance

Porto is a soulful northern gem with steep hills, riverfront cafés, and Port wine lodges. It’s both relaxed and romantic, perfect for slow strolls and unforgettable views. As with Lisbon, take advantage of the many day trips to historic towns and to Porto’s beaches accessible by public transport.

Why Visit Porto?

• Tour and taste your way through the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just cross the Douro River;
• Explore the incredible markets with fresh food, such as the Bolhão Market;
• Wander the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district;
• Visit architectural icons like the Clérigos Tower and Livraria Lello;
• Hop on a boat ride along the Douro River;
• Take the classic tram along the Douro River to Foz do Douro.

Top Day Trips from Porto

Check out our top 16 Porto day trip recommendations. A few of these are:

• Douro Valley – Vineyards, wine tastings, and river cruises;
• Guimarães – Birthplace of Portugal and a medieval town center, perfect for a stroll;
• Braga – Sacred staircases and baroque beauty in this university town;
• Aveiro – Canals, moliceiro boats, and Art Nouveau, with easy access to stunning beaches;
• Matosinhos – Beaches, surfing, and the freshest seafood near the city;
• Ponte de Lima – Oldest Village in Portugal with Roman bridge & wonderful market.

Where to Stay in Porto

The Porto Wine & Book Hotel is a full service, 5-star hotel in a prime location to explore the city. The Virtudes City Lofts are an excellent alternative for those looking for a more cost effective option with a great location and kitchens.

3. Coimbra – Best for Academic Charm and Authentic Vibes

Home to Portugal’s oldest university, Coimbra has a youthful soul and scholarly charm. It’s one of the best cities in Portugal for a laid-back, culturally rich visit. While some people visit Coimbra as a day trip, we’d suggest spending a few nights in Coimbra, if not more.

Why Visit Coimbra?

• Tour the historic University of Coimbra and the ornate Joanina Library;
• Listen to live Fado de Coimbra, sung exclusively by students (you’ll even find free Fado concerts);
• Relax by the Mondego River or in the Botanical Garden;
• Wander through the narrow streets of the Historic Center;
• Visit the Machado de Castro National Museum, with its Roman cryptoporticus beneath it;
• Enjoy fewer crowds and authentic local flair in this charming university city.

Top Day Trips from Coimbra

• Conímbriga – Portugal’s most impressive Roman ruins, with incredibly preserved mosaics;
• Bussaco Palace & Forest – Explore the regal charm of the palace and hiking trails;
• Schist Villages of Lousã – Take a tour through the re-built shale mountain villages;
• Tomar – Explore the Knights of Templar heritage in Tomar and nearby Almoural Castle ;
• Figueira da Foz – A wide sandy beach just 45 minutes away.

Where to Stay in Coimbra

The Sapientia Boutique Hotel is a stylish and thoughtfully designed property located right next to the University of Coimbra, with stunning views over the river and city (see our full review of Sapientia). The elegant Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra is known for its beautifully restored stone interiors. For budget-conscious travelers, Serenata Hotel & Hostel Coimbra offers great value with modern amenities and a prime location.

4. Évora – Best for History Buffs and Countryside Explorers

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Alentejo region, Évora is filled with ancient sites and rustic beauty. This university town is filled with history, ranging from Roman ruins to the ancient megaliths that surround the area.

Why Visit Évora?

• Tour the historic center of Évora, including the Roman Temple of Évora, the Chapel of Bones, and the university, to dive into its history and culture;
• Wander quiet lanes and medieval squares, before taking a break in the botanical gardens;
• Sample hearty Alentejo cuisine and local wines;
• Take a tour to the many megaliths near Évora, much older than Stonehenge;
• Use Évora as a hub for day trips to Monsaraz, Estremoz, Elvas, or nearby wineries.

Top Day Trips from Évora

• Monsaraz – Explore hilltop village with panoramic views;
• Estremoz – Visit the white marble town with a castle, market, and UNESCO ceramics;
• Arraiolos – Enjoy its handmade tapestries;
• Alqueva Lake – Stargaze at an observatory and plenty of water activities;
• Elvas – Walk around the Impressive fortifications and the aqueduct, with UNESCO status.

If you have a few extra days (or more), we’d highly recommend spending a few nights on the beautiful and relatively uncrowded Alentejo coast. Hiking the Fisherman’s Trail is a challenging yet stunning way to explore the coastline.

Where to Stay in Évora

Enjoy the many unique places to stay that will immerse you in Évora’s culture. For those who’d like to stay in the heart of town, the high-end M’AR De AR Aqueduto is a great choice, 16th-century chapel and part of the city’s ancient aqueduct. Zoetic Sustainable Rooms is located within the city walls, but comes at a more budget-friendly price tag.

Honorable Mentions: Other Great Cities in Portugal to Consider

Looking to explore beyond these classic stops? These additional cities offer something a little different but equally special.

Central & Northern Portugal

• Braga – Often called the “Rome of Portugal” and known for its religious architecture, youthful energy, and elegant historic center. Don’t miss seeing the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte.
• Guimarães – Known as the birthplace of Portugal, full of medieval character and national pride. The Penha Sanctuary above town is a beautiful side trip.
• Aveiro – The “Venice of Portugal,” with colorful moliceiro boats, canals, and Art Nouveau architecture. Take a side trip to Costa Nova Beach with its pastel striped cottages.
• Viseu – A hilltop city with wine routes, history, and quiet charm in central Portugal.

Southern Portugal & The Islands

• Faro – Gateway to the Algarve, with a charming old town, island beaches, and salt marshes. Don’t miss visits to nearby Tavira.
• Lagos – A southern coastal gem with golden cliffs, grottos, and laid-back beach vibes.
• Funchal, Madeira – The capital of Madeira Island, ideal for nature lovers, foodies, and subtropical weather.
• Ponta Delgada, Azores – Lush volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and whale-watching adventures in the heart of the Atlantic.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best City in Portugal for You?

Portugal is filled with cities that offer rich experiences—each one distinct in vibe and pace. Visit all if you can. Or, if you’re still undecided on which city to start with, take the quiz to discover the best city in Portugal for you!

👉 Take the quiz: What’s the Best City in Portugal for You?

Do you have another favorite Portuguese city? If so, leave us a comment below.

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