Are you dreaming about taking a trip after the pandemic, or are you a digital nomad looking for your next remote work location? If so, we’ve got you covered.  

From the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, to the many quiet fishing villages dotting the coast of this unique country, some of the prettiest places in Portugal can be found on the mainland Similarly, across the Azores and Madeira Islands, stunning views and picturesque vistas greet visitors at every turn.

The oldest of the two countries on the Iberian Peninsula – the other country being Spain – Portugal is the home of Port Wine and passionate football fans. With so much food, flora, fauna and history to discover, Portugal is one country you should be sure to add to your travel bucket list. Here are some of the prettiest places in Portugal you won’t want to miss when you visit.  

Prettiest Places in Portugal: Historic Belem Tower Offers Stunning Views of the Tagus River

First up, one of the prettiest places in Portugal you’ll want to add to your travel bucket list is Belem Tower in the capital city of Lisbon. Built in the Middle ages to protect access to the area adjacent to the estuary along the Tagus River, the Castelo de Sao Vicente de Belem guards the entrance to the city.

The tower, with its medieval architecture is stunning in and of itself. However, the true beauty of the region reveals itself as you climb the spiral staircase of the cupola. Those who make the trek to the top level of the tower, are greeted with sweeping river views and sailboats dotting crystal, shimmering water. Across the Tagus the statue of Christ the Redeemer is visible. Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site making it a must-see when visiting Portugal. World Heritage Sites are protected by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization. 

Prettiest Places in Lisbon Portugal

Also in Lisbon, is the Jeronimos Monastery . Beautiful architecture aside, it is also the resting place for the famed Portugese explorer Vasco da Gama. Although the cloisters require purchase of a ticket, the church is open for tourists except when it is in service. Fans of modern architecture lovers will also appreciate the Parque das Nacoe district in the east side of the city. Accessible by subway, this area features futuristic buildings completely different from those found in the older part of the city. Most of this district was built for the 1998 World Fair.

Note: When you arrive in Lisbon, be sure to purchase a daily transportation pass. This will give you access to all modes of transportation; subway, buses and trams, for as often as needed. You can easily access many of the sights via public transportation and the bonus is that it’s all fully air-conditioned during the summer months. 

Cascais: The Ultimate Bucket List Resort Town in Portugal

First and foremost, Cascais is a fishing village. If you’re a fan of seafood, this is the town for you; it doesn’t get much more fresh than straight off the fishing boat. For those with a passion for the outdoors, Cascais is home to national parks and expansive hills and trails. These miles of countryside to explore, make Cascais a travel bucket list destination.

Spend time visiting the  Casa de Historios Paula Rego; an art museum dedicated to the paintings of visual artist Paula Rego. The building is one of the prettiest places in Portugal to photograph, with its dual red pyramid towers stretching to the sky. The marina, lighthouse and its museum as well as the beaches of Cascais are all well worth a stop on in this resort town. English is commonly spoken in Cascais too, so if your Portuguese is a little bit rusty, this quaint fishing village is a great choice. Easily accessible from Lisbon, it is the ideal day trip.

Immerse Yourself in the Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Madeira Portugal

Digital nomads  can visit the Madeira Islands for up to 5 months. Remote workers can obtain a visa to visit Ponta do Sol. Workers will have access to a digital community with amenities, discounts and fun bonuses like free daily breakfasts. This new program launches in early 2021 and is similar to the Barbados Welcome Stamp program.

The Madeira Islands boast some of the most picturesque and prettiest places in Portugal. Located just 300 miles off the coast of Morocco, the Madeira Islands laurel forests and haunting architecture. Inspired by the Moorish tiles or azulejos, the tiles can be found on buildings throughout the country.

The Azores: One of the Prettiest Places in Portugal to add to Your Travel Bucket List

The Azores is an archipelago encompassing nine islands off the coast of mainland Portugal. Between the stunning views, lagoons, waterfalls and extinct volcanic hikes, it is easily one of the prettiest places in Portugal. Direct flights to the islands originate from Boston in the states.

Direct flights on TAP Portugal also originate from Toronto to Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island; the largest of all islands making up the archipelago. Azores Airlines operate in Boston, San Francisco, Oakland and Toronto and Montreal. Sao Miguel is also home to thermal baths and even a tea plantation. These volcanic islands provide miles of walkable nature trails and paths.  For fans of the outdoors, surfing and water sports abound in the Azores.

Photo Opportunities Abound in This Seaside Fishing Village

Sintra Portugal has the makings for a romantic getaway. Here you’ll find vine-covered Medieval castles and quaint fishing village cottages. Azenhos do Mar, in Sintra is just under 20 miles away from the capital city of Lisbon. It’s the perfect location for a long-weekend or day trip.  Countless coffee shops boast strong cups of bica (espresso) delicious flaky pastries. Stunning views of cottages nestled precariously into the surrounding limestone cliffs overlooking the ocean, greet you at every turn.

You’re sure to find beautiful sights, stunning vistas and friendly people in Portugal. Delicious food and a vast range of history and culture can be found in all corners. From the music, to the customs and popular dishes, both sweet and savory, there’s enough to keep you occupied from morning to night. Whether you visit one of the above-mentioned locations, or scout out your own spots and itinerary, you’re sure to encounter some of the prettiest places in Portugal, no matter where you end up.

If you are looking for more travel ideas, check out our destination guides.

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