by Janis / 0 comments - Orginally published:13th July 2021
8 delightful Portuguese locations you’ll want to explore - Part II
Portugal appears to be on everyone’s lips at the moment and not just for its delicious bifanas, bacalhau, Port Wine and Vinho Verde. Although they are excellent reasons to head to Portugal for a holiday.
Gary and I fell in love with Portugal a few years ago when we visited Lisbon for a mini-break. Then completely smitten with Portugal and the welcoming culture, charming locals and rich history, we ventured off on a 2-week road trip touring north, south, east, and west.
The pleasure of an independent road trip is that when you pass through tranquil rural villages, picturesque towns, and beautiful countryside, you can stop wherever and whenever you wish.
Portugal is your oyster!
We can’t wait to return and explore more of Portugal. We’ve been given so many fantastic recommendations of places to visit that we could easily fill another road trip.
So, after sharing with you our first inspiring post on 8 Portuguese towns and cities, I’ve chosen a further 8 to add to your travel list. Hopefully, these will encourage you to grab your passport and start planning a Portuguese adventure.
Why not Pin it for later?
Our 8 Destinations
We'll be discovering the following;
You can click on the link to jump to the section, and to return, just click on the title.
Amarante is located in the Minho Region of northern Portugal and only 38 miles (60km) to the east of Porto.
Nestled along the Tâmega River, Amarante is a delightful city to visit. The historic pedestrian stone bridge that straddles the river offers picturesque views up and down the Tâmega waterway. Although, one of the most impressive views in Amarante is the sight of Convent of São Gonçalo de Amarante.
Igreja de São Gonçalo, Amarante
The Convent and Church of São Gonçalo de Amarante were founded in 1543; however, not completed until the mid-16th-century. Take a step inside the incredible monastery and church to see the ornate nave, the delightful azulejo-tile panels and the tranquil cloister.
Portuguese tiles in Amarante
Strolling up through the town, you get a warming feeling like you’ve stepped back a few decades in time. Charming little stores were selling a weird and wonderful mix of household items amongst rustic cobbled lanes.
The welcoming historic streets are a pleasure to amble around. The teetering wrought-iron balconies were protruding high above, and ancient architecture around many corners.
Where to stay in Amarante
Casa do Fontanário Stay – This beautiful modern apartment has incredible views from its terrace and just a short stroll into Amarante town. Free public parking is available nearby.
Local information
For a little bit more information on Amarante, head to Visit Portugal
Amarante is a perfect location to add to your Beyond the Douro Valley adventure.
Staying within the northern region of Portugal we head to Guimarães the birthplace of this ancient country and the first capital of Portugal in the 12th century.
Guimarães is a reasonably small UNESCO city full of such incredible charm and beautiful architecture amongst its ancient lanes.
Not only is there plenty to see in Guimarães, but it is also a perfect location to base yourself while discovering the UNESCO Douro Valley wine region.
Guimarães Castle
Visit the Palace of the Dukes, a medieval estate that was first occupied by the Dukes of Braganza from 1422. The Largo Republica do Brasil with the striking Nossa Senhora da Consolação e dos Santos Passos Church. And the Castle of Guimarães, built during the 10th century.
The lanes of Guimarães, Portugal
There are many welcoming praças dotted amongst the cobbled streets of Guimarães, the medieval square that we especially loved was the Largo da Oliveira. Surrounded by charming architecture and porticos and a Gothic monument to commemorate the Battle of Salado.
Praça de Santiago at night, Guimarães
Where to stay Guimarães
Casa Dos Pombais - was a great find, hidden in its own little oasis behind trees and gates. Casa Dos Pombais is about a 10-minute stroll into the historical UNESCO town and a lovely place to be based for a couple of nights to explore the region. Ample free parking available onsite.
Local information
For more local information on Guimarães, head to Visit Portugal
Guimarães has everything you need for an overnight stay on your Portuguese road trip.
Start planning
However, there are regular flights to Porto and Lisbon; take a look at ebookers.com. Then pop in your location details, and Rental Cars will search well-known car hire brands and discover the deals that suit you the best.
The following picturesque location I’ve chosen is the hilltop town of Monsaraz. Monsaraz is so close to the Spanish border that I’m sure I could hear the melodic tones of the flamenco guitar.
The lanes of Monsaraz, Portugal
Our timing when we visited Monsaraz was perfect, it was late afternoon, and the narrow lanes lined with whitewashed homes were so tranquil and empty. It was idyllic ambling through the cobblestone streets with spring blossom tumbling from the window boxes.
The medieval walled town of Monsaraz has witnessed some tumultuous times over the centuries. Due to its prime hilltop location near the Spanish border, it has been fought over on many occasions. The Moors have left their mark along with the Spanish, and even the Knights Templar played a role.
Across the Alentejo countryside
Perched at the far end of this attractive town is the 13th-century Monsaraz Castle. The ancient Keep can be seen for miles across the far-reaching Alentejo countryside.
Stepping through the gates of Monsasraz Castle and into the inner courtyard, you’ll immediately notice that this fortress was once an amphitheatre. The timeworn tiered seating that would have encircled the arena for the spectators to enjoy the exhibition taking place below can still be seen.
Where to stay nearby Monsaraz
Évora Olive Hotel – When we visited Monsaraz, we based ourselves in Évora, around 30 miles (50km) from Monsaraz. The hotel is very centrally located and offers onsite parking.
Local information
For more local information on Monsaraz, head to Visit Portugal
I couldn’t complete a post on Portugal and not include Lisbon, the city where we fell in love with this beautiful country.
Lisbon is an incredible city and has such rich history; it is one of the oldest cities in the world. Lisbon is located on the banks of the River Tagus, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. In 1755, a huge part of Lisbon was destroyed by a devastating earthquake and tsunami, which was felt far and wide.
Praça do Comércio in Lisbon
It’s difficult to know where to start with Lisbon as there is so much to see within the cities ancient Seven Hills. However, a day trip to Sintra is highly recommended if you have the time, and the short trip to Belém is a must.
At Belém, you’ll find the Monument to the Discoveries and the UNESCO sites of the Monastery of the Hieronymites and Tower of Belém. And don’t forget, while you’re in Belém, head to Pastel de Belém to indulge in the delicious custard tarts Pastel de Nata.
The Torre de Belém
The heart of Lisbon is divided up into neighbourhoods, each with its own tale to tell. The Alfama district, which is the oldest region in Lisbon, is delightful to stroll around; remember to jump out the way of the historic trams. In Alfama, you can explore the Castle of São Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral and the National Pantheon. If your timing is right, you can also have a rummage around the local flea market.
Many charming squares are dotted around Lisbon; also, search out the Miradouros that offer wonderful panoramic views across Lisbon’s rooftops.
I especially enjoyed our visit to Carmo Convent and Largo do Carmo, high above the city and just by the Elevador de Santa Justa.
The view from Miradouro da graça, Lisbon
One last thing I want to mention is spending an evening in a traditional Fado bar. Some places can be quite touristy. We found one ‘Tasca do Chico’ in Bairro Alto. It was incredible and so memorable.
Where to stay
Lisbon Rentals Chiado– This apartment was fantastic, located in the heart of Lisbon on the edge of Chiado & Bairro Alto and quite large for 2 people. Extremely clean and very well equipped.
Local information
For a little bit more information on Lisbon, head to Visit Lisboa
I love nothing more than planning a trip and so often I use the DK Eyewitness books. This Top 10 Pocket Travel Guide was invaluable to us.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our Lisbon mini-break, now you can grab the revised copy.
For Viana de Castelo, we are back discovering the delights of Portugal’s northwest region.
The 13th-century city of Viana de Castelo is nestled at the mouth of the Lima River. Due to its prominent position in the Atlantic Ocean during the 16th-century, Viana do Castelo played a significant maritime role in the Portuguese Discoveries.
The fountain in Praca da Republica, Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is relatively easy to explore on foot and has an interesting mix of architectural styles, including Baroque, Renaissance and Manueline. Take a stroll through the historic streets and discover Viana do Castelo Cathedral and the charming Republic Square.
All around Republic Square and its renaissance fountain are eye-catching buildings and homes with beautiful azulejo tiling and wrought-iron balconies.
The Santuário de Santa Luzia, Viana do Castelo
Sitting high on the hill above Viana do Castelo is the Basilica of Santa Luzia. You can either catch the funicular railway to the top of the mount, hop in the car or climb the steps if you are feeling adventurous.
Where to stay in Viana do Castelo
Hotel Margarida Da Praça – Located on the banks of the River Lima and very close to Viana do Castelo town. The rooms a spacious and tastefully decorated. Public parking is available nearby.
Local information
For a little bit more information on Viana do Castelo, head to Visit Portugal
Our Portuguese road trip itinerary
If you like to follow our wheel tracks and explore Portugal on a road trip, take a peek at our detailed 2-week Portugal road trip itinerary part one and part two. You’ll see where we stayed, places we visited along the route and some of our favourite restaurants and cafés.
The city of Évora is a magnificent place to stay, located in the south-central Alentejo region of Portugal. You’ll feel like you’ve discovered a true gem; it’s not overrun with tourists; however, if you love history, you’ll love the UNESCO historic centre of Évora.
Roman Temple of Évora
In Évora, there is so much to explore. Ancient Roman ruins, the rooftop of Évora Cathedral and the rustic cobble streets amongst the whitewashed homes are just the beginning.
It’s such a delight strolling through the lanes not knowing what you’ll find around the next corner.
There’s a tranquil park with peacocks elegantly strutting amongst stone ruins. A short hop from the park is the intriguing Chapel of Bones, on display in St Francis Church.
Enchanting Évora
There are around 5,000 skulls lining the walls, along with hundreds of limbs from the skeletons. Row after row, each bone is stacked painstakingly alongside another. The chapel was built in the 17th-century by three monks who wanted to express that life was so brief.
When you first arrive in Évora, you won’t fail to miss the vast aqueduct piercing through the skyline and disappearing amongst the Portuguese streets. King João III requested it to be constructed in 1532.
St. Anton's church at dusk
At the end of a long day, take the weight off your feet and enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple in the welcoming Praça do Giraldo.
Where to stay
Évora Olive Hotel – We really enjoyed our stay at Évora Olive Hotel. It was centrally located within a very short stroll of the historic UNESCO city. The underground parking was excellent, even for a larger car.
Local information
For a little bit more information on Évora, head to Visit Portugal
Our recent new found love is Portugal, it is such a beautiful country. While planning our trip, I used the DK Eyewitness books. I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our north to south Portuguese road trip, now you can grab the revised copy.
Lagos certainly has some mixed history, some of which dates back centuries. The medieval castle and encompassing walls were built to fortify the coastal town, as Lagos was creating strong maritime trade links. Some of the historic walls still can be seen today.
The fort at Ponta da Bandeira, Lagos
Crossing the promenade from the castle is the late 17th-century Ponta da Bandeira Fort. This is one of the many forts constructed along the Algarve coastline. Enabling the locals to protect themselves from pirates and buccaneers.
Lagos does attract a lot of visitors due to its location along the Algarve shorelines. However, just by strolling a couple of lanes back further into town and you’ll discover a more peaceful side to Lagos.
As I mentioned, Lagos has had a chequered past. In the main square of Praca Infante Dom Henrique is the site of the first slave market in colonial Europe, dating from 1444.
Today the same market building is now a museum to this appalling era in history.
Strolling along the promenade in Lagos
Just a short stroll from the modern-day marina in Lagos is the palm-tree-lined promenade. With the warm evening breeze floating across the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a perfect place to sit and watch the world pass by. If sun, sea, and sand are what you yearn for, then Lagos is ideal for you.
Where to stay
The Captain's Nest by Seewest – Captain's Nest is a wonderfully spacious apartment; it was lovely and bright and had a large balcony overlooking the marina. It's about a 10–15-minute walk into the old town. The apartment had allocated underground parking.
Local information
For more information on Lagos and beyond, head to Visit Portugal
Discover more
If you’re touring Portugal on a road trip, look at our post on the UNESCO sites in Portugal. All of them are incredible. I really don’t think I could choose a favourite.
9 UNESCO Sites to visit in Portugal
by Janis on 31 May 19
During the 14th-century, Cascais was once a bustling port along the Atlantic coast shores and received a different type of clientele than it does today.
The Praca 5 de Outubro, Cascais, Portugal
When bathing became popular through the late 19th-century, the King of Portugal, Dom Luís I, chose Cascais as his summer residence. The town was transformed into a fashionable resort attracting the wealthy folk of Portugal.
The beaches and secluded bays along this stretch of the Portuguese Riviera and the glorious sunshine are still welcoming many visitors today.
Cascais at night
Enjoy a pleasant stroll around Cascais marina and promenade towards the attractive town under the dappled shade of the swaying palm trees. Through the streets of Cascais, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, outdoor cafés, and friendly boutiques for a little slice of sophisticated retail therapy.
Where to stay
Hotel Baia - Hotel Baia is in a fantastic location in Cascais and overlooks the sea. The parking is underground in a public car park. However, they have allocated spaces for the hotel at a discounted charge.
Local information
For a little bit more information regarding Cascais, head to Visit Portugal
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