MAGIC OF PORTUGAL – Top 6 Best Cities To Explore!

Portugal is one of those places you just have to experience! With its rich history, lively culture, stunning coastlines, and mouthwatering food, it’s no wonder it’s become a top travel destination. From vibrant cities to hidden gems, this country has something for every type of traveller, whether stunning beaches, scenic views, or tasty food!

The best part? Portugal is super affordable, with a welcoming vibe and a Mediterranean climate that keeps things sunny and warm. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation and the perfect European destination to explore solo or with friends.

In this blog, I’ll recommend the top 6 sites to explore with the best places to stay and fun things to do in each. You ready for some Portugal? Let’s go!

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Language & Currency In Portugal

Language: In Portugal, the official language is Portuguese. It’s the main language everyone speaks and is used in government, schools, media, and everyday conversations. However, if you’re visiting popular tourist areas, you’ll find that many locals also speak English, especially those working in hospitality.

Currency: Portugal uses the Euro (EUR) for money. The country switched to the Euro in 2002, replacing the old Portuguese Escudo (PTE) currency. Today, the Euro is used for all financial transactions across Portugal.

Faro

Faro is the gateway to Portugal’s stunning Algarve, but don’t just pass through—this city has its own charm! With a historic old town, chilled coastal vibes, and epic island-hopping adventures, Faro is perfect for explorers who love a mix of culture and beach life.

Whether you’re wandering its cobbled streets, spotting flamingos in the Ria Formosa, or soaking up the sun on a nearby island, Faro is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! Add this location to your Portugal travel itinerary for an epic getaway.

The pretty streets of Faro. Credit: Digitalsignal (Adobe)

Fun Activities & Tours In Faro

Where To Stay In Portugal

Faro Old Town (Cidade Velha). Perfect for history lovers and those who enjoy a charming, relaxed vibe, Faro Old Town is a popular location to stay. Wander through cobbled streets and soak in the authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Plus, you’ll be close to great restaurants and local cafes.

🩵 Recommends: AP Eva Senses Hotel is a 4-star stay with spa services and rooms with good views.

Downtown Faro (Baixa de Faro). If you want to be in the heart of the action, Downtown Faro is the spot! You’ll find buzzing bars, shops, and easy access to public transport. It’s a great base for exploring the city and day trips to the nearby islands.

🩵 Recommends: 3HB Faro is a gorgeous 5-stay stay with luxurious vibes and friendly staff.

Praia de Faro. Beach lovers, Praia de Faro is for you! Located just a short drive from the city centre, Praia de Faro offers a more laid-back, coastal experience. Stay by the ocean, enjoy watersports, and catch stunning sunsets every evening.

🩵 Recommends: Golden Beach Guesthouse & Rooftop Bar is a lovely small hotel near the beach with unbeatable views!

Travelling solo but anxious about it? The Female Solo Travel Guide covers everything you need to know about solo trips and more!

Who & What Is Faro Best For?

Faro is perfect for travellers who love a mix of history, culture, and chilled coastal vibes. It’s the gateway to Portugal’s stunning Algarve region, offering charming old town streets, scenic boat trips through the Ria Formosa lagoon, and easy access to some of the best beaches.

Faro is a great spot to kick off your Algarve adventure, whether you’re a backpacker, a foodie, or just looking for a laid-back getaway with sunshine and seafood. So, will Faro make it on your Portugal travel itinerary?

Lisbon

Lisbon is the ultimate city for anyone who loves vibrant culture, stunning views, and good vibes! From the colourful streets of Alfama to the buzzing nightlife in Bairro Alto, Lisbon has it all.

Whether you’re into history, street art, amazing food, or just soaking up the sun, this city delivers. Plus, with Portugal’s chill Mediterranean vibes and plenty of Instagram-worthy spots, Lisbon is a must-visit on your European adventure!

Bica Elevator going down the hill of Chiado in Lisbon, Portugal. Credit: Armando Oliveira (Adobe)

Activities & Tours In Lisbon

Places To Stay In Lisbon

Baixa/Chiado. The heart of Lisbon, Baixa/Chiado, is perfect for first-time visitors. This area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic squares, and easy access to famous landmarks. You’ll find lots of shopping, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy.

🩵 Recommends: Turim Boulevard Hotel offers a 5-star stunning stay with boujee vibes and a fantastic interior!

Alfama. For those who want to experience the authentic, Alfama is the old-world charm of Lisbon. Alfama is a maze of narrow streets, stunning viewpoints, and traditional Fado music, offering a taste of Lisbon’s rich history and culture.

🩵 Recommends: Olissippo Castelo is a spacious and clean 4-star hotel with delicious food and great views over Lisbon.

Bairro Alto. Bairro Alto is the go-to neighbourhood for nightlife, known for its lively bars, clubs, and vibrant street art scene. It offers a fun and energetic vibe, perfect for those who love to party and experience the city’s youthful energy.

🩵 Recommends: For a luxurious, top-notch 5-star stay, the Memmo Principe Real offers an UNREAL experience!

Who & What Is Lisbon Best For?

Lisbon is perfect for the cool, curious, and culture-loving traveller! If you love colourful streets, epic viewpoints, and a mix of old-world charm and buzzing nightlife, this city is for you.

Foodies, history buffs, and beach lovers will all find something to love—think pastel de nata, tram rides, and nearby surf spots. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple on a getaway, or a group of friends looking for fun, Lisbon’s got the vibes, the sights, and the sunshine to keep you hooked!

Sintra

Sintra feels like something from a fairy tale—colourful palaces, hidden tunnels, and stunning forests that look straight out of a storybook. Just a short trip from Lisbon, it’s perfect for history lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone who loves a good view.

Wander through Pena Palace, explore secret passages at Quinta da Regaleira, and soak up the magical vibes of Portugal. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable place, Sintra is a must!

View of Palace da Pena in Sintra. Credit: Aiisha (Adobe)

Attractions In Sintra

Where To Stay In Sintra

Historic Centre. Stay in the heart of Sintra, surrounded by cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and iconic landmarks like the Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira. It’s perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the town’s fairy-tale vibe.

🩵 Recommends: The Chalet Saudade is a gorgeous, cosy stay with charming vibes and friendly staff.

Colares. If you want to stay outside the hustle and bustle, Colares offers a more peaceful experience with easy access to beaches and the lush Sintra hills. It’s a great spot for nature lovers.

🩵 Recommends: Arribas Sintra Hotel offers an upscale 4-star stay with epic beach views and stunning rooms.

Monserrate. This quiet area is just a short drive from the main sights, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the gorgeous Monserrate Palace. It’s ideal for a more relaxed, tranquil stay while still being close to Sintra’s attractions.

🩵 Recommends: Lawrence’s Hotel is a 5-star stay with boutique rooms and pretty vibes.

Who & What Is Sintra Best For?

Sintra is straight out of a fairytale—literally! Its colourful palaces, mystical forests, and castle ruins make it perfect for adventure seekers, mum-and-daughters, and anyone who enjoys dreamy, Instagram-worthy spots.

If you’re into exploring hidden gems, wandering through magical gardens, or soaking up epic views from hilltop castles, Sintra is the place for you. It’s a must-visit for those who love a mix of nature, culture, and a little bit of royal charm!

Albufeira

Albufeira is the ultimate beach-meets-party destination in Portugal! By day, soak up the sun on golden sandy beaches, explore hidden caves, or take a boat trip to spot dolphins. By night, the town transforms into a buzzing hotspot with lively bars, beachfront clubs, and music that keeps you dancing until sunrise.

Whether you’re in Albufeira to chill, explore, or party hard, this European gem has the perfect mix of sun, sea, and good times! There’s a little something for every type of traveller here.

Albufeira, Algarve coastline. Credit: Nataraj (Adobe)

Activities & Tours In Albufeira

Places To Stay In Albufeira

Albufeira Old Town. Stay in the heart of Albufeira’s Old Town for a charming, vibrant vibe. With cobbled streets, cute cafes, and a lively nightlife scene, it’s perfect for those wanting to be close to everything. Plus, it’s just a short walk to the beach!

🩵 Recommends: Hotel Sol e Mar Albufeira offers a beachfront stay with gorgeous rooms and vibes.

Oura Beach. If you’re a fan of beaches and partying, Oura Beach is the place to be. Known for its lively atmosphere, great restaurants, and easy beach access, this area is ideal for those who want a bit of everything—sun, fun, and nightlife.

🩵 Recommends: Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel is a fantastic 4-star hotel with spacious rooms and scenic views.

Gale. Looking for something a bit more relaxed? Gale is a quieter, more laid-back area with beautiful beaches and a peaceful vibe. It is perfect for families or those looking for a more tranquil stay while still being close enough to the action in Albufeira.

🩵 Recommends: Vila Gale Collection Praia offers a stunning getaway and is only 2 minutes from the beach.

Who & What Is Albufeira Best For?

Albufeira is the ultimate spot for sun-seekers, party lovers, and beach bums! This is your place if you’re all about golden beaches, buzzing nightlife, and endless fun. Perfect for groups, couples, and solo travellers looking to soak up the sun by day and hit the lively bars by night. Albufeira has it all, whether you’re into watersports, boat trips, or just chilling with a cocktail in hand!

Madeira

Madeira is like Portugal’s hidden gem, full of gorgeous landscapes, stunning cliffs, and endless adventures! Whether you’re hiking through volcanic mountains, chilling by the beach, or sipping on some local wine, this island has it all.

Madeira is the ultimate spot for a memorable getaway, perfect for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to escape to paradise. Ready to explore its vibrant culture and jaw-dropping views? You’re gonna love it here!

Scenic of Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Funchal, Madeira. Credit: Anitasstudio (Adobe)

Attractions In Madeira

Where To Stay In Madeira

Funchal. The island’s vibrant capital, Funchal, offers a mix of culture, shopping, and stunning coastal views. It’s perfect for those who want a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and attractions like the famous Botanical Gardens and Monte Palace.

🩵 Recommends: Next – by Savoy Signature offers a stunning boujee stay for an unforgettable getaway.

Canico. A quieter, more relaxed area, Canico is great for those seeking a peaceful getaway. It’s close to natural wonders like Garajau Nature Reserve, and you can enjoy beautiful ocean views, making it ideal for nature lovers and couples.

🩵 Recommends: Quinta Splendida Wellness Hotel is a great 4-stay hotel to relax and recharge.

Porto Moniz. Porto Moniz is located on the northern coast and is known for its natural volcanic swimming pools. This area is great for adventurous travellers who love exploring stunning landscapes, hiking, and swimming in crystal-clear waters—it’s the more untouched side of Madeira.

🩵 Recommends: Aqua Natura Madeira is a cosy and picturesque stay with boujee vibes—I highly recommend it!

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Who & What Is Maderia Best For?

Madeira is a dream for adventure lovers, nature seekers, and anyone who loves epic views! This island is all about dramatic cliffs, lush green mountains, and stunning ocean scenery.

Madeira has something for you, whether you’re into hiking, paragliding, or just sipping Poncha while soaking up the vibes. It’s perfect for travellers who love the outdoors, road trips, and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots—so if you’re up for a mix of adventure and chill, Madeira is calling your name!

Porto

Porto is the ultimate blend of charm, history, and good vibes! With its colourful streets, scenic river views, and mouthwatering food, Porto is the place for anyone looking to experience the real Portugal.

Whether you’re sipping on some famous Port wine, snapping pics by the stunning bridges, or getting lost in the cosy alleyways, this city has a vibe from start to finish! I highly recommend you add Porto to your Portugal travel itinerary!

Sunset over the Porto city centre and the Douro river. Credit: Ppohudka (Adobe)

Activities & Tours In Porto

Places To Stay In Porto

Ribeira. The charming Ribeira, a UNESCO-listed neighbourhood by the Douro River, offers colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and plenty of bars and restaurants. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Porto’s vibrant atmosphere and scenic views.

🩵 Recommends: ICON Duplo Ribeira offers authentic and modern vibes, friendly staff, and good services.

Baixa. Porto’s city centre, Baixa, is ideal for exploring local shops, cafes, and historical attractions. It’s central and bustling and offers easy access to everything from cultural sites to nightlife.

🩵 Recommends: Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel is a gorgeous 5-star hotel with top-notch services and reasonable room rates.

Foz do Douro. For a more relaxed stay, head to the coastal area of Foz do Douro. With stunning beaches, chic cafes, and a laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy a quieter, yet still vibrant, side of Porto.

🩵 Recommends: Four Points by Sheraton offers a 4-star stay with spacious rooms and delicious breakfast.

Travelling solo but anxious about it? The Female Solo Travel Guide covers everything you need to know about solo trips and more!

Who & What Is Porto Best For?

Porto is for the cool, laid-back traveller who loves a mix of history, culture, and epic city vibes. If you’re into stunning river views, charming cobbled streets, and sipping on world-famous Port wine, this city is calling your name.

Perfect for foodies, solo travellers, and weekend explorers, Porto blends old-world charm with a buzzing nightlife and creative energy. Whether strolling along the Douro River, hopping between cosy cafes, or chasing golden sunsets at the Dom Luis I Bridge, Porto is a vibe you won’t want to miss!

That’s A Wrap!

As you can see, Portugal offers various beautiful attractions and activities. Whether you want to explore historic castles and palaces, wander through traditional markets, or sunbathe in the Mediterranean sun, Portugal is the perfect destination.

Looking for more great countries to explore in Europe? Check out 5 Beautiful Countries in Europe to Explore in 2024.