When you think about Portugal, there are a few things that might spring to mind: Lisbon, Porto, and the beaches of the Algarve for example. However the big cities and the tourist-magnet beaches are far from the only thing that Portugal has to offer. Once you get off the beaten track you can find some truly beautiful gems. We've created a route through the most beautiful towns in Portugal to visit in 2023 to help you find some of these treasures. From small fishing villages, to a fortified castle town ready for attack by the Spanish, through the majesty of the palaces of Sintra, these are some of the prettiest towns in Portugal.
Sintra
Sintra, just half an hour by train from Lisbon, is a must see as soon as you set foot in Portugal and truly stands up to its name of one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal. With its spectacular palaces, gardens and walls, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995 and is worth every minute you spend walking through its beautiful streets.
From the 16th-century National Palace in the centre of the village, work your way outwards. Throughout the streets you will find yourself flanked by colourful houses which gradually lead you to the town’s other wonderful monuments: the Castelo dos Mouros, built in the 9th century, and the Palacio Da Pena (Pena Palace), residence of the Portuguese royal family during the 19th century. Make sure to also head to some of the local bakeries to try sweet treats that are made in the area.
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Estremoz
Estremoz, located about 30 miles west of the Spanish border near Badajoz, is a small but charming village in Portugal. The pretty old town is situated on a hilltop surrounded by picturesque walls and has two access gates, Francina and Santarem. What stands out most within the walled enclosure is the castle and its impressive 28-metre-high tower. But the caste isn't the only thing to see. Honestly the whole village is a wonderful sight, and wandering the old, winding streets is the perfect way to take in Estremoz's phenomenal architectural heritage.
Estremoz is not only one of Portugal's prettiest villages, but is also one of the best representatives of the wine tradition in the Alentejo area of Portugal, making it a great place for an enotourist getaway in Portugal.
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Óbidos
The medieval village of Óbidos, in the Leiria region, is especially famous for its spectacular Arabian castle, one of the 7 wonders of Portugal, as well as its ring of medieval walls. If you get the chance to visit Óbidos, then the best way to enter the walled town is through the Santa Maria gate to really appreciate the impressive array of 18th century azulejo tiles that adorn its façade. Once inside, be prepared to be amazed by the gleaming white facades and the heady scent of beautiful bougainvilleas "paper" flowers as you walk the village's charming streets.
Make sure to pay a visit the Chapel of São Martinho, the Parish Church of Santa Maria and the Church of Senhor da Pedra.
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Ericeira
Portugal has an incredible tradition of fishing villages, and Ericeira, near Mafra, is one of the most beautiful fishing villages in Portugal. You're in for a treat in this beautiful Portuguese town, and will best enjoy the village by strolling through its cobblestone streets and photographing its unbelievably picturesque little blue and white houses.
In addition to its seafaring roots and devotion to the patron saint of fishermen, Ericeira is famous for being part of Portugal's contemporary history: it was from the port located in the area, that the Portuguese royal family went into exile in Brazil more than a century ago following the declaration of the First Portuguese Republic.
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Monsaraz
In Monsaraz, a small hilltop village close to the border between Spain and Portugal near the province of Badajoz and in the Alentejo region, things have a medieval vibe. Because of its location on the border, the Portuguese built a castle here centuries ago to watch over the river Guadiana and protect against possible attacks by the Spanish. The village as it stands today emerged around that border fortification into a stunning medieval walled town, one of the best small towns in Portugal.
The streets of Monsaraz are an authentic time machine that transport you to another era, one with more peace and tranquillity, but also with unique expressions of music, theatre and dance. Don't forget to check out some of the local food, and wash down your meal with some Monsaraz wine.
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