Portugal is one of my favourite countries in the world. In fact, a very best of Portugal you can find outside of the famous tourist spots (like crowded Algarve). The Portuguese coastline is shaped by unique rocky formations, mainly in the south and dramatic cliffs along the west coastline. A two-week road trip through the best coastal cities in Portugal will remain an unforgettable adventure. Here is a detailed travel itinerary for the best ocean sites in this part of the Iberian Peninsula.
The best coastal cities in Portugal.
The Portuguese coastline stretches over 1,700 kilometers, and it is a treasure trove for adventurous travelers. You can’t get enough with endless surf beaches, deep ocean landscapes, and deliciously fresh seafood. Portugal fascinates with its rich traditional folklore and one-of-a-kind architecture. I hired a car and went for an endless coastal drive, which led me to discover absolutely stunning oceanic towns!
Useful travel information for Portugal.
CURRENCY: Euro
ATM: Available in most cities, card payments are possible almost everywhere in restaurants, hotels, shops and hostels. However, you should carry some cash in small towns for a morning coffee.
TRAVEL MAPS: Available at the airport in the Tourist Information Centre – ask for road and city maps!
SAFETY: Portugal is one of the safest and most friendly countries in Europe. I have been traveling across the country a number of times for the last 14 years and have never experienced any risky situation.
CAPITAL: Lisbon, Language: Portuguese.
Car hire in Portugal?
The safest and quickest way to get to Portugal is taking a direct flight available from most European cities.
However, the best way to explore this beautiful country properly (except Lisbon) is by car. Check DISCOVER CARS – an award-winning car rental offering the best deals, prices, and rental conditions. Car rental pick-up and drop-off were very easy and I had no problem with the car. I always go for full coverage, which leaves me hassle-free during my trip. I recommend the same.
Surfing in Portugal.
Portugal is an internationally recognized country for surfing adventure with the world’s most famous spots in Nazare, Arrifana or Carcavelos (which some say was a place where surfing in Portugal began).
I always highly encourage remaining active during traveling. Hiking is a passion, but you need to give your body a good workout and water sports are a fabulous option – especially since you’ll have lots of fun and laugh! But it’s also a tough piece of practice 😉
Surfing is something you can’t miss trying across different coastal cities in Portugal. Here are a few best options for guided surfing classes in Portuguese ocean waves. For surfing gear, I can recommend one of my favourite surf fashion brands – NOSERIDERSURF.COM, with a socially and environmentally responsible business model.
Cabo de São Vicente - the most south-west point of Europe.
Cape Saint Vincent – most south-west point of mainland Europe. Located a few kilometres northwest of Sagres. Just above the cliffs there’s a small lighthouse at the end of the peninsula – very characteristic for such places. The lightouse can be seen from 60 miles out at sea.
Below is a photo of a local fisherman standing at the edge of a steep coastal rock. This is not unusual picture, it reveils the authentic side of Portuguese traditions and habitants lifestyle.
Where to stay in Cape Saint Vincent.
Some very good accommodation options for Cape Saint Vincent:
Playa Arrifana (Praia da Arrifana).
If you want to explore one of the most amazing and unspoilt beach spots, Arrifana Beach is the right destination. It is located only 25 km north of Cape Saint Vincente, and indeed is one of the most amazing cliffside surf spots. The place is occupied by real surfers, but the beach is suitable for all skill levels.
There are not many tourist facilities, it’s not too crowded, just pure nature and waves. I would recommend taking plenty of water and some snacks.
Algarve - in the heart of southern Portugal.
Algarve – the southern and most famous region of Portugal, where the distinct beauty of the azure sea meets with red, dramatic rocky formations. The coastline is blessed with gold-sand beaches, incredible grottes and hidden caves. The unique landscape of the southern shore of Portugal makes it an extremely busy tourist destination all year round.
The Algarve’s most famous parts are Albufeira, Sagres, and Lagos – the most famous and popular coastal cities in Portugal. Apart from beach activities, you should try surfing and snorkeling in this region. Exploring the sea life is highly adventurous due to the clear turquoise waters.
Lagos -the magic part of Algarve.
Lagos is the most popular part of the Algarve region thanks to its unforgettable beaches like Praia Dona Ana or Praia Camilo.
A great option is taking a boat trip for dolphin and cave watching. It’s usually an hour trip along the coastline and most exciting cliff beaches, where you can remain private with your friends.
This time, I brought my Mom with me to explore the best coastal cities in Portugal. We took a boat trip along the coast and I have to say the coastline is fascinating from the ocean perspective. The boat brings you closer to all the caves, unreal rock formations and private cliff beaches.
Lisbon: A City of Wonders.
Lisbon, the capital city, blends traditional charm with modern energy. Adventurous travelers can take advantage of its hilly terrain by hiking the scenic trails in the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, just a short train ride away.
The city’s coastline offers thrilling activities such as kite surfing and sailing on the Tagus River. Be sure to explore the iconic Belém Tower and indulge in pasteis de nata – the most delicious pastries in the world 😉
Cascais: A Coastal Playground.
Cascais is one of the most picturesque coastal cities in Portugal. Many beautiful coastal trails offer breathtaking views, perfect for hiking or cycling. Explore the cliffs at Boca do Inferno or the nearby Sintra mountains!
Sintra - most western point of Europe.
Cabo da Roca, located only 5 km from Sintra, is the most westerly point of mainland Europe. This lovely coastal city in Portugal is surrounded by wide sandy and empty beaches. Stopping for a day or two in Sintra is a very good idea and it can be linked to a trip to Cais Cais. There are a few unique attractions in Sintra to visit: the magic Pena Palace and Monserrate Palace would be the top places to explore.
Ericeira - surfing mecca of Portugal.
Ericeira used to be a very small fishing village, but it has grown to a major port and tourist attraction. It’s located 30 km north of Lisbon. Ericeira remains one of my favourite coastal cities in Portugal for offering its unspoiled atmosphere, unique architecture, and Atlantic views.
Even though Ericeira has grown in popularity over the last 10 years, it remains a charming Portuguese fishing town. It is situated along a coastline with outstanding surfing beaches. The powerful and reliable surfing has transformed peaceful Ericeira into a surfing mecca. Hot and chill beaches turn into a lively nightlife, with top-rated tourist facilities.
Walking the cobblestone streets you can find lots of local shops with original craftwork and souvenirs. The buildings are designed with a typical Portuguese style – white houses with blue shutters. The village remains the only surfing reserve in Europe.
The quality of fresh fish and seafood is really impressive in local restaurants. The majority of foreign visitors travel to Ericeira for the surf, but during the summer it also becomes a lively and buzzing holiday destination, so it’s ideal for young couples and families. Ericeira can also be visited as an enjoyable day trip from Lisbon and is often combined with the magnificent monastery of Mafra.
Porto: Where River Meets Ocean.
Although often overshadowed by Lisbon, Porto is my favourite among all the coastal cities in Portugal. It’s absolutely unique. The Douro River, with its adventurous boat tours, provides an entirely different perspective of the city’s iconic bridges.
Nearby, the stunning beaches of Matosinhos offer opportunities for surfing and beach volleyball. The nightlife in the Ribeira district adds an exciting twist to your adventures.
Villa Nova de Milfontes.
Villa Nova de Milfontes might be less popular, but it’s a great escape from noisy touristic cities. It offers wide sandy beaches along the Costa Vicentina, often with big waves and surfing opportunities. But there’s a lot to see within the town – distinct architecture and a historical centre.
Also, don’t forget about the Fortress, built between 1599 and 1602 as a protection against pirates! Enjoy an extraordinary cuisine, as well as interesting trekking routes.
Praia de Beliche near Sagres.
Lastly, go to see Praia de Beliche near Sagres, which is on the southwest point of Portugal. It was discovered by a total mistake, it was meant to be a stop on the way north direction and what a treasure to discover! What’s more, not a single person on the beach – private sandy paradise with caves – the great escape!! Only me, my Mom and my Blackberry 😉
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