Portugal is celebrated for its stunning coastlines, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage. However, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore more off-the-beaten-path destinations in Portugal, you’re in for a real treat.
From serene natural parks to historic mountain ranges and quaint coastal villages, a wealth of hidden gems is waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we’ll be exploring some of the best off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Portugal, providing a glimpse into the country’s lesser-known destinations and sharing some of the must-do things in each location.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, you’re sure to find something to suit your interests and provide you with a truly unique and memorable experience. Let’s start exploring!
And, while you’re with us, please check out Your Tours Portugal’s full selection of All-Inclusive Private Day Tours in Portugal!
Peneda-Gerês National Park
Peneda-Gerês National Park is a stunning natural reserve in Portugal’s northwestern region. It is a must-visit destination for travelers in the country.
This national park is known for its diverse landscape, including forests, waterfalls, and hills, and it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can spend their days hiking through the lush forests, admiring the stunning waterfalls, and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the must-do things in Peneda-Gerês National Park is to take a hike along the park’s many trails, which offer a range of difficulty levels and provide access to some of the park’s most stunning scenery. Travelers must also visit the park’s traditional villages, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and opportunities to try the local cuisine.
You can also enjoy a boat tour of the park’s rivers and lakes to admire the stunning scenery and observe the local wildlife. Overall, Peneda-Gerês National Park is a breathtaking and diverse destination that offers a true escape into nature and is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
If you’d like to spend a day exploring this national park with expert local guides, please consider booking our All-Inclusive Gerês Private Tour.
Porto Covo
Porto Covo is a charming fishing village located on the southwestern coast of Portugal. This atmospheric town is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.
Visitors can spend their days lounging on the sand, swimming in the sea, and exploring the town’s narrow streets and traditional houses. One of the best things to do in Porto Covo is to stroll along the historic fortifications that line the beach, which offers breathtaking coastline views.
You must also sample the fresh and delicious local seafood! If you want to capture Instagram-ready images of stunning natural landscapes, take a boat tour to explore the nearby cliffs and caves, or go for a hike in the surrounding hills for panoramic views of the region.
Overall, Porto Covo is a peaceful and scenic destination that offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Ria Formosa Natural Park
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of Europe’s most amazing areas of natural beauty and biodiversity. Located on the southern coast of Portugal, this breathtaking protected area offers an immensely diverse landscape, including dunes, salt pans, and lagoons. It is truly a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Visitors can spend their days exploring the park’s many trails and admiring the stunning scenery and local wildlife, including hundreds of bird species and marine mammals. Take a boat ride of the park’s lagoons, the best way to appreciate the park’s unique landscape and observe the local wildlife.
While in this region, you can also visit the nearby town of Faro, which offers a range of cultural and historical attractions, including the Faro Cathedral and the Ria Formosa Museum.
Visitors can also walk along the park’s many beaches, which provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a magnificent and diverse destination that offers an escape into nature and is a must-visit for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and beach-goers. It has been recognized as one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders for good reason!
Portugal’s Historic Northern Villages
Portugal’s historic villages are some of the best-preserved examples of traditional Portuguese architecture to be found in the country and offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. At Your Tours Portugal, we even crafted a Romantic Self-Driving Tour of Portugal’s Historic Villages. We believe exploring these enchanting villages is one of the best ways to get an authentic taste of Portuguese culture.
The historic villages of northern Portugal are characterized by their narrow, cobbled streets, stone houses, and historic buildings, including churches, convents, and castles.
Marialva, for example, is a medieval village that sits on top of a hill and is surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The village is known for its well-preserved castle, which dates back to the 11th century, and its historic church (considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal).
Trancoso is another of our favorite villages. This peaceful hilltop town is known for its well-preserved medieval castle and charming, narrow streets. The village is also home to several beautiful churches, including the Church of Saint Mary, one of Portugal’s most important examples of Gothic architecture.
Both Marialva and Trancoso are renowned for their traditional crafts, such as pottery, basket weaving, and textiles, which are still produced in the region today. Visitors can see local artisans at work, learn about their techniques, and purchase their products as souvenirs.
In addition, both villages are known for their excellent food and drink, including their cheeses, cured meats, and local wines, made using traditional methods and are a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Explore these amazing villages frozen in time with our Self-Guided Tours of Portugal.
Monsanto
Monsanto is a historic town located in the central part of Portugal. This picturesque village is known for its well-preserved castle ruins, traditional stone houses, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can spend their days exploring the narrow streets and admiring the unique architecture of the village, which blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings. One of the must-do things in Monsanto is to visit the castle ruins, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Another must is trying the local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the region’s abundant produce and is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Visitors can also hike in the surrounding hills for panoramic views of the region and to explore the stunning countryside.
Monsanto is a historic and scenic destination offering a taste of rural Portugal and its rich cultural heritage! A wonderful off-the-beaten-path choice.
Portugal is a country that is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. From the stunning natural parks of Ria Formosa and Peneda-Gerês to the charming towns of Porto Covo and Mirandela, a wealth of off-the-beaten-path destinations are well worth visiting.
Each destination offers a unique experience and will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether looking for a peaceful escape into nature, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a cultural immersion, Portugal’s off-the-beaten-path destinations have something to offer everyone.
If you have any questions about this blog or our Premium Day Tours in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
