Portugal has a lot to offer visitors. If this country is your next holiday destination, take note of what to see in Portugal in summer.
What to see in Portugal in summer: the coast
Portugal has more than 500 miles of coastline where you will find a wide variety of different landscapes. Steep cliffs, wild beaches, historic towns and small fishing villages are waiting for you if you dare to travel a route along the coast.
Costa Verde (Green Coast)
The Costa Verde stretches from Galicia in Spain down to Porto, and owes its name to the predominantly green landscape as a result of the region's rich, dense forests. In this area you cannot miss Viana do Castelo and the spectacular views from the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia.
Other spots not to be missed are Praia de Afife and Moledo. They are not well known to tourists, but they are popular among the Portuguese. There you will find a relaxed atmosphere and, as an added bonus, they are perfect for surfing.
The coast near Lisbon
In this area lies the popular town of Cascais, which stands out for its beautiful old town and strong seafaring tradition. If you are in the area, take the opportunity to see Boca do Inferno, a spectacular cliff that is sure to leave you open-mouthed.
If you like surfing, be sure to visit Ericeira, declared a World Surfing Reserve. Although the town is awash with surfers coming and going from all over the world, it still maintains its authentic fishing village feel and has not lost any of its charm.
The Alentejo Coast
If you want to discover something different in your search for what to see in Portugal in summer, don't hesitate to visit this area. This is one of the least visited regions of the country.
Here you can spend some time in Vila Nova de Milfontes, a charming and uncrowded small town. You also need to make a note of Porto Covo in your itinerary, a small village with coves that delight all who pass through here. And if you want unforgettable sunsets, head to Cabo Sardao and its cliffs.
The Algarve
The Algarve is one of the most popular parts of Portugal, due to its sunny climate and spectacular beaches. In this western region you can visit the historic city of Lagos and the curious Ponta da Piedade rock formation. If you are looking for Europe's most southwestern point, then head to Sagres and Cape St. Vincent.
The eastern Algarve is a little quieter. Here you will find Tavira, considered one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Also in this area is Cacela Velha, a village where you will find unspoiled beaches on the Ria Formosa.
What to see in Portugal in summer: towns and cities
If your plan is to take in new cities and towns, Portugal will surprise you. Although it is a relatively small country, it has a great heritage and hundreds of places worth discovering.
Porto
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto combines tradition and modernity like few others, which gives it a unique identity. In fact, its old town is a World Heritage Site.
Leave the hustle and bustle behind and stroll leisurely through its cobblestone streets and be amazed by its tiled facades.
Guimaraes
Considered the "cradle" of the country, this is the perfect place to get to know the most authentic Portugal, as it is full of history. Do not miss its medieval castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
In the excellently preserved historic centre you will feel as if you have travelled back to the twelfth century.
Braga
One of the oldest cities in the country and known by the nickname "Portuguese Rome" thanks to its large number of churches and religious monuments. One of the most photogenic spots is the baroque staircase of the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.
Aveiro
The "Portuguese Venice" is known for its colourful canals and Moliceiro boats. Despite being a small city, it has a lot to offer and its modernist architecture is especially striking. It is also close to beaches like Costa Nova.
Lisbon
The Portuguese capital has it all: historic neighbourhoods like Alfama and Chiado; the unmistakable yellow trams; viewpoints overlooking the Tagus and a first-class cultural and gastronomic offering. You can stroll around Belém, visit the Jerónimos Monastery and end the day with a pastel de nata (custard tart).
Óbidos
This walled town is an authentic medieval jewel with cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses with facades full of flowers. More popular among the Portuguese themselves than by foreign tourists, but you will love getting to know this place.
It is difficult to choose what to see in Portugal in summer, because there are options available to you. The best plan is to come up with a route and hit multiple stops in one trip. Rent your car in Portugal with OK Mobility and start enjoying.
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