10+ Best Places to See Between Porto and Lisbon

Most beautiful places to see between Porto and Lisbon

Capela do Senhor da Pedra

Capela do Senhor da Pedra is a truly unique church located right on the beach in Miramar. It is an unusual sight, making it one of the best places to stop by between Porto and Lisbon. 

The chapel is sitting on a rock outcrop and has stood firm through countless storms and strong coastal winds. Originally, this site was used for pagan worship, which explains its unusual location.

Visiting Capela do Senhor da Pedra won’t take a lot of your time and you can just plan a quick break to see this unique church. You can also take advantage of the beach, but considering the road ahead, I wouldn’t recommend it.

The entrance is free and Capela do Senhor da Pedra is open every day from 9 am to 12.30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm. However, I have to say that there is not much to see inside, so feel free to visit outside working hours.

📍 It is located 15 km away from Porto, which is approximately 30 minutes drive, and 305 km away from Lisbon which is 3-hour drive.

Igreja de Santa Marinha de Cortegaça

Among the many buildings covered with azulejos, Igreja de Santa Marinha de Cortegaça is undoubtedly one of the most impressive. In fact, this is one of the best samples of azulejos in Portugal.

Visiting this church gives you a chance to appreciate the tradition of tile-making in Portugal, which has been perfected over centuries. The blue and white tiles on the church’s exterior tell stories through their patterns and colors.

Located in the small town of Cortegaça, there isn’t much to do in the immediate area, but the church itself is worth the visit. And it can be easily added to your road trip itinerary between Porto and Lisbon.

Unfortunately, you cannot enter the church, but make sure you walk around, see the gardens, and appreciate azulejos on the back and sides of Igreja de Santa Marinha de Cortegaça. The visit won’t take more than 30 minutes.

📍 It is located 30 km away from Porto, which is approximately 30 minutes drive, and 290 km away from Lisbon which is 2 hours 50 minutes drive.

Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria de Válega

The Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria de Válega is one of the most colorful churches you can find. Located in the small town of Válega, this church is a true masterpiece of art and architecture. And wait until you see the interior!

The construction of this church began in the 18th century and was completed in 1746. However, it wasn’t until 1960 that the facade was adorned with the stunning tiles, or “azulejos,” that make it so unique today.

Tiles on the facade of Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria de Válega feature various religious scenes and are incredibly detailed. There is no other church in Portugal quite like it!

It has gained more popularity in the last few years, however, it is still one of the best-hidden gems in Portugal and a perfect place to stop between Porto and Lisbon for those who want to see unique attractions.

This church is open from 2 pm and it is worth seeing inside. But if you are planning an early departure, make sure you stop by. If you are planning to travel from Porto to Lisbon on a Sunday, then the church is open from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm.

📍 It is located 40 km away from Porto, which is approximately 40 minutes drive, and 275 km away from Lisbon which is 2 hours 40 minute drive.

Aveiro

Aveiro, often referred to as the Portuguese Venice, is a city defined by its picturesque canals and traditional Moliceiros—colorful boats that glide through the waterways. 

One of the must-do activities in Aveiro is riding a Moliceiro. This experience is unique to the city, offering a perspective you won’t find elsewhere in Portugal. Hop on and join other tourists who want to discover Aveiro from the canals. And book your tour here.

Another important attraction is the Aveiro Train Station, which features fantastic azulejo panels and unique details. As you wander, you’ll encounter impressive art nouveau architecture, such as the Museum of Arte Nova and the Aveiro City Museum. 

The city also boasts notable churches, including the Carmelite Church of Aveiro and the Church of Nossa Senhora da Apresentação.

If you are planning a lunch break, Salpoente is a hot spot for foodies visiting Aveiro. It welcomes guests since 1991 and it is a perfect mix of tradition and innovation.

You can easily see the best of Aveiro in 2-3 hours, however, if you want to spend a night in Aveiro, 1877 Estrela Palace offers stylish decor and unforgettable experiences to its guests. Hands down the best hotel in Aveiro.

📍 It is located 75 km away from Porto, which is approximately 50 minutes drive, and 250 km away from Lisbon which is 2 hours 30 minutes drive.

Costa Nova

Costa Nova is one of the most picturesque and unique places to visit between Porto and Lisbon. I am sure that you have seen photos of these striped colorful houses that many visitors love.

Costa Nova is located between the Aveiro Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. The white sand beach makes it already a popular destination, but it’s the colorful houses are the main attraction in Costa Nova.

Praia da Barra is a few minutes away from Costa Nova, near the lighthouse. This beach is very wide and it could be a nice alternative to the Costa Nova beach, which is more crowded. I personally think it is one of the best beaches between Lisbon and Porto.

Unless you are planning to stay on the beach, a couple of hours in Costa Nova will be more than enough. And if you are hungry, Dóri, Restaurante – Marisqueira is one of the best restaurants in Costa Nova. Especially, if you love seafood

📍 It is located 85 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 1-hour drive, and 250 km away from Lisbon which is 2 hours 50 minutes drive. It takes more time to reach Lisbon compared to Aveiro because you venture off the main road.

Palace Hotel Bussaco

The Palace Hotel do Bussaco, located in central Portugal, is a magnificent example of Neo-Manueline architecture and an amazing place to visit between Porto and Lisbon.

Built in the late 19th century as a royal hunting lodge, it combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences, creating a grand and ornate structure. Lush gardens and ancient trees surround the hotel, making it a perfect place for nature lovers. 

Inside, the lavish interiors feature intricate woodwork, azulejos, and stained glass, offering guests a unique experience steeped in history and luxury. The azulejos depict scenes from Portuguese history, including the Age of Discoveries and local legends.

Even if you are not a hotel guest, you can stop by and visit the Palace Hotel do Bussaco. There is also a cafe and restaurant accessible to visitors.

📍 It is located 112 km away from Porto, which is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes drive, and 233 km away from Lisbon which is 2 hours 30 minutes drive.

Coimbra

Coimbra is a city of students. The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe and it attracts people from all over Portugal and Europe. Joanina Library is located inside the university and it is an absolute gem.

Nevertheless, the university is just one of the remarkable places to see in Coimbra. The old town has narrow and steep streets where you can appreciate Portuguese architecture and several historical gates & towers. 

Religious sites like The Sè Velha and Church of Santa Cruz are worth a visit as well. Visit Praça da Canção for some dreamy views and a wonderful panorama of Coimbra and the Mondego River.

When it is time for a meal, Arcada Comes e Bebes is one of the best restaurants in Coimbra and the service is lovely, it’s a must if you are visiting Coimbra.

If you are wondering where to stay overnight between Porto and Lisbon, Coimbra is a perfect place. Considering its size, there is plenty to see and do in Coimbra and this route gives you the opportunity to visit one of the best places in Portugal.

Quinta das Lagrimas is one of my favorite hotels in Portugal. The name comes from the legend of Prince Pedro and his love Inês de Castro who had a forbidden royal love affair for many years. Portuguese version of Romeo and Juliet. It is a perfect getaway for couples.

📍 It is located 130 km away from Porto, which is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes drive, and 205 km away from Lisbon which is a 2-hour drive.

Best places to visit in Central Portugal

After visiting Coimbra, you have 2 different routes that give you the opportunity to see different sides of Portugal. Option A includes Batalha, Fatima, Tomar, and Santarem while option B includes Nazare, Caldas da Rainha, Obidos, Peniche & Berlengas, Ericeira, and Mafra.

Option A is suitable for culture lovers who like to explore small towns with historical heritage and religious sites. Fatima is one of the most popular Pilgrimage destinations in Portugal and other stops complement other popular convents, churches, and sights.

Option B instead is more suitable for nature and beach lovers as it offers a scenic drive from Lisbon to Porto and includes some of the best beaches between Lisbon and Porto.

If you have a lot of time, you can cover both routes and combine places from options A and B, however, with limited time, I recommend you pick one route and stick to it.

Option A: Batalha

Batalha takes its name from the battle of Aljubarrota where the Portuguese army won against the Spanish who wanted to invade Portugal. 

After that victory, the golden age of Portugal started, and to celebrate it, King Joao I started to build the Monastery of Batalha. Nowadays it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Portugal.

The Monastery is built in Gothic style and it’s part of the Unesco Heritage. For this reason, Batalha has a special meaning to the country and it has to be added to your bucket list of places in Portugal. 

 Mosteiro do Leitão offers real food experiences in Batalha and it is not to be missed. Their specialty is the piglet but all their dishes are prepared outstandingly. 

📍 It is located 200 km away from Porto, which is approximately 2 hour drive, and 140 km away from Lisbon which is a 1 hour 40 minute drive.

Fatima

Few places in the world are like Fátima. It’s a destination where faith is palpable in every corner, making it a must-visit for anyone with a spiritual inclination during a journey between Porto and Lisbon.

Fátima’s association with Marian apparitions dates back to the 18th century, beginning in a district called Ortiga. 

The first recorded event occurred in the mid-1700s when, according to local belief, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young mute shepherdess, requesting one of her sheep. 

The girl, who had never spoken before, responded to the apparition, an event seen as miraculous. This led to the creation of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Ortiga in 1758.

The significance of this miracle was so profound that in 1801, Pope Pius VII granted an indulgence to all pilgrims visiting the shrine. Fátima’s reputation as a holy site was further solidified in the early 20th century.

📍 It is located 195 km away from Porto, which is approximately 2 hour drive, and 130 km away from Lisbon which is a 1 hour 20 minute drive.

Tomar

Tomar is one of the most charming towns in Portugal due to its rich and unique history related to the Templar Knights. If you are into old history, legendary knights, castles, and other fascinating stories, this is one of the best places to see between Porto and Lisbon. 

The Convent of Christ, along with its castle, is the highlight of Tomar. Initially conceived as a symbol of the Reconquest, this historic site later took on a different meaning during the Manueline period, coming to represent Portugal’s openness to other cultures and civilizations.

The charm of the town doesn’t stop with its impressive convent though. The town boasts an impressive tradition of religious buildings such as the gothic Church Santa Maria do Olival, or the Igreja de São João Baptista.

When you visit Tomar, you can also have a taste of medieval life at the Taverna Antiqua, which is one of the most unique restaurants in Portugal.

📍 It is located 200 km away from Porto, which is approximately 2 hour drive, and 140 km away from Lisbon which is a 1 hour 40 minute drive.

Santarem

Santarem is one of my favorite hidden gems in Portugal, and it’s an ideal stop during the drive from Porto to Lisbon, especially if you’re interested in Gothic art.

The Igreja de Santa Maria da Graça and the Church of Santa Maria de Marvila are among the city’s most beautiful churches, but the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Conception is even more impressive.

Another notable site in Santarem is its train station, featuring exquisite azulejos panels that add to the city’s charm.

If you’re visiting Portugal with kids during the warmer months, consider stopping by the Santarém Water Park. This aquatic park offers long, twisty slides, a wave pool, and plenty of space for sunbathing or swimming, making it a fun spot for family relaxation.

📍 It is located 250 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2 hour 20 minute drive, and 85 km away from Lisbon which is a 1-hour drive.

Option B: Nazare

Nazaré is a coastal town known for having some of the best beaches between Lisbon and Porto, especially if you’re into surfing. The town gained fame for its giant waves, which are a spectacular sight during the winter months.

In the lower town, you’ll find a wide beach perfect for unwinding, along with numerous local restaurants offering delicious specialties like those at Restaurante A Tasquinha. The lower town retains a charming Portuguese authenticity, with its narrow alleys and traditional atmosphere.

To reach the upper town, hop on the Ascensor da Nazaré, which takes you directly to the stunning Miradouro do Suberco. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy panoramic views of Nazaré and its beach. 

Just a short walk from the viewpoint is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth, the town’s main religious site. For a perfect Instagram shot, visit the Baloiço da Ladeira, a swing that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the town.

A short distance from the viewpoint and sanctuary is the Nazaré lighthouse, the ideal spot to watch the famous giant waves up close.

📍 It is located 213 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2 hour drive, and 120 km away from Lisbon which is a 1-hour 20-minute drive.

Caldas da Rainha

Caldas da Rainha is a charming town and one of the top spots to visit on a road trip between Porto and Lisbon. The town is renowned for its thermal waters and vibrant artistic heritage.

The town’s reputation as a spa destination is evident in its thermal complex, which includes the historic Thermal Hospital and the Hospital and Caldas Museum, both reflecting the long-standing importance of therapeutic baths in the area.

Caldas da Rainha is also home to the stunning Parque Dom Carlos I, a lush green space perfect for a relaxing stroll. It’s one of the best places in Portugal to enjoy the beauty of autumn colors.

Another highlight of the town is the Museu da Cerâmica. Caldas da Rainha is famous throughout Portugal for its exquisite ceramics, and this museum showcases some of the finest works, including pieces by the renowned artist Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro.

📍 It is located 230 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2-hour 10-minute drive, and 93 km away from Lisbon which is a 1-hour 10-minute drive.

Obidos

This picturesque town, encircled by ancient walls, is not only one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon but also one of the most enchanting places in Portugal. It’s recognized as one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal.

The main attraction in Óbidos is its 9th-century castle. You can explore the castle and even spend the night there, as it’s part of the “Pousadas de Portugal,” a collection of the country’s most extraordinary accommodations. Click here to book your night at the Obidos Castle.

The charm of Óbidos extends beyond its castle. The town’s fortified walls are walkable, offering stunning views of the old town below. The Church of Saint Mary, with its beautiful paintings and azulejos, is the most notable religious site. 

Porta da Vila serves as the main entrance to the medieval town of Obidos and it is another great sample of the beautiful azulejos work in Portugal. One of the most notable aspects of the tilework at Porta da Vila is the depiction of the Passion of Christ.

Also, you can’t leave Obidos without trying the Ginja de Óbidos, the most famous gift that the town has made to Portugal. This cherry liquor became part of the Portuguese tradition, especially in Lisbon. 

📍 It is located 240 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2-hour 20-minute drive, and 85 km away from Lisbon which is a 1-hour drive.

Peniche & Berlengas

Berlengas islands are one of the most beautiful natural places in Portugal. The colors of the islands and the sea are marvelous. Once you reach the place, you won’t be able to believe that the view is real.

To reach the islands, you have to take a boat from Peniche and please make sure you book your boat or ferry in advance, especially if you are visiting during peak hours. Also, make sure you check the boat schedule and plan your drive accordingly.

If you are a seafood lover, don’t miss Tasca do Joel. Their hospitality is another reason why I love this restaurant. Try the catch of the day and thank me later.

📍 It is located 270 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2 hour and 30 minute drive, and 100 km away from Lisbon which is a 1 hour 20 minute drive.

Ericeira 

Ericeira is known as a paradise for surfers and offers some of the best beaches between Lisbon and Porto, such as the Praia dos Pescadores or Praia da Empa.

Despite its growing popularity, Ericeira has retained the charm of a traditional fishing village, with its characteristic white houses with blue or yellow accents. The town’s rising fame has led to the development of both modern and traditional cafes, as well as numerous surf schools.

Don’t leave Ericeira without trying the delicious ouriços. Ouriços are little fluffy pumpkin sweets produced in this town. The traditional Pastelaria Casa Gama and Café Salvador are two places where you can try some of the best ouriços in town.

📍 It is located 315 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2 hour and 50-minute drive, and 50 km away from Lisbon which is a 45-minute drive.

Mafra

Mafra is a must-visit destination, and its convent is undoubtedly one of the standout attractions between Porto and Lisbon. While the town itself is relatively small, Mafra National Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2019, is an essential stop when exploring Portugal.

The convent complex features a Royal Palace, a basilica, a convent, and even a game reserve. The highlight of this impressive site is its grand library, considered one of the most beautiful in Portugal and possibly the world, housing over 36,000 volumes.

The architecture of the Royal Palace and the Basilica draws inspiration from Rome, crafted by architect Johann Friedrich Ludwig and enhanced by local and Italian artists like Alessandro Giusti and António de Machado.

Mafra National Palace is open from Wednesday to Monday from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm. It is closed on Tuesdays. The entrance fee is 8 euros and you can buy your ticket here.

📍 It is located 306 km away from Porto, which is approximately a 2 hour and 50-minute drive, and 40 km away from Lisbon which is a 40-minute drive.

In conclusion…

This is the end of the best places to see between Porto and Lisbon and I am sure you have added most of these places to your itinerary.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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