Portugal in Pictures: 25 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Despite its small size, Portugal offers a vast variety of attractions and topography. Whether visitors are searching for pristine sandy beaches; tranquil, verdant islands; charming, secluded towns; or a bustling European metropolis, they'll find it (and so much more) in this enchanting realm.

From historic stone walls in Évora to deep caves and soaring cliffs in the Algarve to the rugged Sintra hills, Portugal's scenery is picture-perfect. While much of the country hugs the encapsulating Atlantic coast, inland you'll find everything from lush, rolling hills to majestic mountains to deep valleys and sparkling rivers.

Portugal truly is a magical place, bursting with splendor in every corner. These 20 beautiful places to photograph should top your list of things to see while you're here.

Lisbon

Portugal's gorgeous capital is spread over seven picturesque hills near the mouth of the River Tagus. From atop these magnificent peaks, tourists can see some of the most amazing views in the country. Some of the city's best vistas can be found at Castelo de São Jorge, Santa Luzia, and São Pedro de Alcântara da Graça. These are great places to capture stunning pictures.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lisbon

Porto

The second largest Portuguese city behind Lisbon, Porto is as charming as it is unique. A vibrant mix of old world meets contemporary can be found in this historic yet increasingly edgy spot. A kaleidoscope of buildings (including Baroque mansions) vie for space in the growing city center, which boasts incredible restaurants and unbeatable ocean views.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Porto

Palacio Nacional da Pena (Palace of Pena), Sintra

The impressive Palacio Nacional da Pena comprises a winning mix of both Manueline and Moorish architecture. It was refurbished by King Ferdinand II during the 19^th century and contains three distinct structures, including a former monastery, King Ferdinand II's wing, and a castle-like creation that includes a drawbridge. Set high above the town of Sintra, atop the second highest point in the rocky Sintra hills, the palace is surrounded by the vast and romantic Parque de Pena.

Read More:

• Visiting the Palácio Nacional de Sintra: Top Attractions
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sintra

Praia do Camilo, Lagos

One of the most iconic beaches in historic Lagos, Praia do Camilo is a true (if slightly small) gem on the western Algarve Coast. Pristine golden sand and translucent azure waters greet visitors who are willing to descend the wooden steps to this idyllic spot. Rugged orange cliffs rise above this beautiful beach, which can get quite crowded on summer days.

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Portugal

Ponta da Piedade, Algarve

A truly magical place, Ponta da Piedade's beauty is literally breathtaking. Giant rock pillars and sea arches rise from the crystal-clear water, offering an impressive array of caves and grottoes to be explored. The best way to view this cliff-lined headland is by boat, which can be boarded at nearby Lagos.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the Algarve

Benagil Cathedral, Algarve

Over time, the pounding of the sea along the beautiful Algarve coast carved this spectacular marvel, also known as Algar de Bangil. This is a fantastic place to capture dramatic images. Light floods this amazing spectacle through a giant, eye-shaped hole in its ceiling. Soft, golden sand spreads below this captivating cave, which was named after the nearby fishing village of the same name. The only way to experience the magic inside is by boat – just be sure to choose one that's short enough to enter its mouth.

Aveiro

Dubbed the "Venice of Portugal," this colorful town is worthy of a thousand postcards. Small, picturesque bridges span the town center's sparkling canals, striped buildings line the beach, and vibrant Moliceiros (a traditional Portuguese boat similar to a gondola) glide softly upon the water. The old town is peppered with colorful buildings adorned with the traditional azulejo (Portuguese ceramic) tiles.

Évora

This impeccably preserved medieval town is protected by towering stone walls (circa the 14^th century). Winding lanes weave their way past Évora's magnificent Templo Romano, which is accentuated by striking columns. The cathedral and cloisters are worthy of multiple photographs. Despite having its feet deeply entrenched in the past, this lovely town is peppered with modern restaurants and shops and highlighted by the University of Évora.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Évora

Azenhas do Mar, Sintra

An idyllic wonderland that must be seen to be believed, Azenhas do Mar is one of Portugal's most beautiful and unique villages. Perched upon a clifftop, the whitewashed buildings evoke an Amalfi Coast or Greek settlement, while the cobblestone streets transport visitors back in time. The town's claim to fame is a natural swimming pool set beside the sea.

Obidos

In terms of attractive medieval towns, Obidos is about as picturesque as it gets. This ancient walled city is lined with cobbled streets and colorful blooms. A historic square lies at its center and an intricate limestone castle (the Castelo de Obidos), towers above charming buildings topped with clay-tiled roofs. Take some time out to shop and eat on Rua Direita.

Azores

When you arrive in Azores, you'll be forgiven for thinking you've landed in paradise. A stunning archipelago consisting of nine volcanic islands, this serene destination lies in the middle of the Atlantic, off the coast of Portugal. It is a must-see for those searching for a tranquil spot to hike, ogle waterfalls, or dive into deep, blue waves. Don't miss a whale watching tour while you're here.

Igreja de São João Baptista, Tomar

An ancient, 15^th-century church, the Igreja de São João Baptista is the highlight of Tomar's main square, the Praça da República. Its ornate Manueline doorway is featured in many a tourist photo, as are the towering stone bell tower, inner three naves, and intricate diamond-shaped azulejos covering much of the inner walls.

Torre de Belém, Lisbon

One of (if not the) most iconic structure in Lisbon, Torre de Belém was built in the early 16^th century. Originally designed to defend the city, the tower later served as a lighthouse to protect boaters travelidfng on the River Targus and, later still, was used as a customs center. In 1983, the tower was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Read More: Visiting Torre de Belem: Top Attractions

Câmara de Lobos, Madeira

Câmara de Lobos is a tiny slice of paradise found on the lovely island of Madeira. Its most exquisite feature is a sparkling bay, around which the village was built. A mere five miles from the charming town of Funchal, this sweet spot features Pico da Torre, a perfect viewing spot located 205 meters above the town.

Cabo Girão, Madeira

The magnificent glass skywalk at Cabo Girão can make even the hardiest of adventurers feel breathless. Jutting 580 meters above sea level, this promontory offers spectacular views of the cities of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal, as well as the island's phenomenal coastline. The Rancho Cable Car provides visitors with an easy way to reach the farmers' fields and terraces at Fajas de Girão, as well as an isolated beach.

Douro Valley

The magnificent Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies to the east of Porto. Named for the winding river that cuts through this region, the valley is blanketed by the vibrant greens of grape vines and offers peaceful views of a lush, pastoral landscape lined by rolling hills. Don't forget your camera.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Lisbon

The ornate Jerónimos Monastery (a.k.a. the Hieronymites Monastery) is one of Lisbon's most popular tourist attractions. Built to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India, the monastery took over 100 years to complete. This monastery is home to the unique Church of Santa Maria (which houses Vasco da Gama's tomb), as well as a stunning two-story cloister.

• Read More: Visiting Mosteiro dos Jerónimos: Top Attractions

Guimarães

Northern Portugal is home to the lovely Guimarães, which is commonly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal. This historic town, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the birthplace of the country's first king, Afonso Henriques, and now offers a perfect mix of architecture dating from the Middle Ages to the present day. Its crowning glory is the medieval Castelo de Guimarães.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guimarães

Convento do Cristo, Tomar

This splendid stone convent is the most popular historic attraction in the small town of Tomar, which lies on the River Nabão. Founded on a wooded hillside during the 12^th century, this remarkable structure was used as the headquarters for the Order of the Knights Templar, who ruled for over four centuries.

The Convento do Cristo exemplifies the many unique types of architecture developed during their reign, including the Great Cloister, which houses an intricate spiral staircase at its core.

Coimbra

Home to the country's first university (circa 13^th century), Coimbra is sometimes referred to as "the city of knowledge." The University of Coimbra may be the city's claim to fame, but this once-capital (for over a century during medieval times), is well loved for its overall charm and lovely mix of architecture ranging from the Renaissance to Baroque to today. It sits serenely on the shores of the pretty Mondego River.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Coimbra & Easy Day Trips

Ponte de Dom Luís I, Porto

The double decker Ponte de Dom Luís I (Luis I Bridge) was designed by Gustav Eiffel (the same Eiffel behind the famous tower in Paris). This impressive feat of engineering straddles the Duoro River, connecting beautiful Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. When finished in 1886, it was the longest iron arch of its kind worldwide. Visitors can travel the length of the bridge by car, metro, or on foot.

Bom Jesus do Monte, Tenões

This colossal Baroque staircase is located in the town of Tenões, near Braga. Climbing 116 meters (and roughly 580 steps) to its top leads to a remarkable hilltop church and an unbeatable vista. The climb leads visitors past intricate fountains, grottoes, and statues built during the mid-18^th century. A popular pilgrimage site for Catholics, the Bom Jesus do Monte is sometimes ascended by devoted worshippers on their knees.

Praça do Rossio, Lisbon

Dubbed the "liveliest square" in Lisbon, Praça do Rossio (a.k.a. Rossio Square) is incredibly picturesque. Lined by charming cafés and a multitude of shops, this serves as the city's most popular meeting place. In its center stands the 27-meter high Coluna de Pedro IV, a monument immortalizing the country's "Soldier King." The plaza also features two large Baroque fountains.

Braga

It's easy to see why Braga is deemed one of the most charming cities in Portugal. The third-largest in the country, this lively spot is filled with Baroque buildings, a historic center, and the captivating 18^th-century Palácio do Raio. The impressive façade is impossible to dislike, highlighted by bright blue tiles and sapphire-hued doors.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Braga & Easy Day Trips

Cascais

Once the summer home of Portugal's King Louis I, the lovely coastal village known as Cascais is a stunning place to spend a weekend away from nearby Lisbon. Be prepared for crowds, though, as this chic resort town is a beloved summer destination for Portuguese travelers looking for water-based fun, eclectic shops, tasty food, and a soft, sandy beach.

Umbrellas above Pink Street

Umbrellas float overhead as you walk along Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) in Lisbon. In the background, the muted pastel hues of the surrounding buildings cause the color of umbrellas to pop in your picture. The pavement below the umbrellas is pink, making it easy to find, but it's frequently busy with tourists.