5 hidden gems not to miss in Portugal
Portugal is a country full of fantastic scenery, modern cities, alluring small villages, beautiful beaches, and landmark sites and attractions. These features have attracted many visitors - a record-setting 30+ million tourists visited Portugal in 2024.
Most of these tourists visited large cities such as Lisbon or Porto. However, the country has much more to offer than the big cities, and if you are willing to explore a little, you will find some amazing gems outside of the larger urban areas.
Ready to uncover Portugal’s best-kept secrets? Explore these 5 hidden gems and add them to your must visit list!
1. Visiting the surf village of Nazare
Nazaré is a small, traditional fishing village that has maintained its charm as an unspoiled destination. Known for its world-class surfing, the village offers numerous surf camps for enthusiasts. If you love surfing, a day trip to Nazaré would be a fantastic choice. Plus, since this village is slightly off the radar, you won’t have to compete with large crowds for space. You can spend the entire day riding the waves with ease and indulge in some of the best seafood dishes in Portugal! This hidden gem is definitely worth a visit on your road trip through Portugal.
2. A trip to the unspoiled São Miguel Island
If you are a lover of the wonders of nature, São Miguel Island would be particularly appealing. This island, located in the Azores archipelago, is home to exotic hot springs, enchanting cliffs, and breathtaking lakes. Sete Cidades, a quaint settlement located in the volcanic crater of Água de Pau, and Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake within the Água de Pau Massif volcano on the island, are two attractions not to miss on São Miguel Island. There are trails for walking and admiring the scenery of this exotic island, as well as several restaurants serving delectable cuisines. By and large, São Miguel Island is a great option for people seeking to explore and enjoy an off-the-beaten-track experience.
3. The alluring Comparta beach village
Comparta Beach Village is a 13 km stretch of pristine beach, leading to extensive rice fields and dense forests, located approximately an hour away from Lisbon. The population of the area is a little over 1,000, and the vibe of the village is relaxing and exclusive – you might feel like you have your own beach! The village is surely one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets, and it is said that Monaco’s royal family and football coach José Mourinho own properties in the area and use it as a getaway from time to time.
4. The Peneda – Geres National Park
The Peneda–Geres National Park, located in the northeast of Portugal, is home to over 70,000 acres of natural vegetation, multiple rivers, and scenic waterfalls. This massive, unspoiled area provides you with the opportunity to partake in outdoor adventures such as rock climbing, rafting, canyoning, zip-lining, or simply enjoying a nature walk. You will surely enjoy the serenity of this national park without feeling too crowded, as the area is not very touristy.
5. Southwest Alentejo – Portugal’s best-kept secret
Southwest Alentejo is one of Portugal’s hidden gems. In this region, you’ll find Europe’s largest coastal natural park, stunning Atlantic beaches, charming fishing villages, and breathtaking rocky cliffs. It’s a perfect destination for a family getaway, offering a variety of activities—enjoy a picnic on the beach, surf in the pristine waters, take a boat ride with local fishermen, or savor fresh seafood at a cozy restaurant.
Visiting Southwest Alentejo feels like stepping back in time, with its relaxing, slow-paced atmosphere and minimal tourist crowds.
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Portugal, these five hidden gems should definitely be on your list!