8 Incredible Hidden Gems To Visit In Portugal In 2023

8 Incredible Hidden Gems To Visit In Portugal In 2023

One of the most sought-after and popular destinations on the famous “Eurotrip” is Portugal. Portugal has many attractions to offer that you should definitely see. The countryside has everything you could want for a dream vacation, from mountains and vineyards in the north to farmland and medieval villages in the center to gorgeous beaches on the south coast!

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Which of these hidden places in Portugal will you explore first?

Santana, North of Madeira

Santana (north of Madeira) is known throughout the world for its characteristic triangular and lively dwellings; it is occasionally a little rainier than in the south. Since only one house is inhabited and the others have been converted into gift shops, the place is not exactly representative of the island. In any case, it is a nice place to discover local handicrafts and snap pictures.

Ferragudo, Lagoa – Algarve

This pretty fishing village is part of the municipality of Lagoa, one of the most beautiful municipalities in the Algarve, which also includes the towns of Porches, Carvoeiro and Ferragudo.

We recommend you to take the N125 (which is free) and go through the town of Parchal to reach the settlement. At the entrance of Ferragudo, you can park in an empty parking lot and enjoy a spectacular view over the city and the neighboring city of Portimao.

Compared to the beaches of Carvoeiro and Portimao, there is less going on here. There is also a “nudist” area at the end of the beach, which is not so crowded and where nudism is allowed.

Costa Nova, Aveiro – Porto

The fish market and the lively houses of Costa Nova are known for their attractiveness. The biggest attraction for tourists in this small town, which is connected to Aveiro by a bridge, are the houses along the main street, Avenida José Estevao. Originally used to store fishing gear, they eventually evolved into vacation homes. Some are available for rent.

Odeceixe, Algarve

The border between the Algarve and Alentejo regions is marked by the southern bank of the Ribeira de Seixe, which runs through the municipality of Odeceixe. This municipality is located on the steeply sloping topography that separates the two regions.

At the mouth of the Ribera de Seixe, the municipality includes Praia do Odeceixe. Here is located one of the few official nudist beaches in Portugal!

Sistelo, Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gêres

Sistelo is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets, located 1.5 hours by car from Porto, near the “Penada Geres” National Park. This community of 300 people is called “the little Portuguese Tibet” and is one of the seven wonders of Portugal.

Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, Sao Miguel – Azores

Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, Sao Miguel - Azores

This tiny island is actually the visible part of an amazing underwater volcano that is only 0.6 miles from the coast. In this particular paradise, you will find a small beach and crystal-clear waters. 

Azenhas do mar, Azenhas do mar

You can experience a complete change of scenery in just 50 minutes from Lisbon. Your Instagram account will go viral thanks to this tiny fishing community nestled on the edge of the cliffs.

Don a swimsuit and plunge into the natural pool of sparkling water, or lay out on the sheltered beach. Feeling hungry? You can find traditional Portuguese cuisine and seafood restaurants in this authentic Portuguese village.

Berlengas Archipelago, Peniche

They believe that the small fishing village “Peniche” is already a hidden treasure and a tiny piece of paradise. Portugal is kind and always offers more. The Berlengas archipelago is the cherry on top.

Although a protected area, this nature reserve is open to the public. You can even take a nap on the small beach, which can only be reached by boat.