Portugal is one of Europe’s greatest travel treasures. Luckily, it’s very easy to get to for U.S. travelers and is an easy piggyback to a Spain itinerary, or worth a full itinerary on its own. The question is, of course, where to start? While Portugal is a small country, its landscape is wildly diverse: the rusty cliffs of the southern beaches, the bustling coastal cities, and the lauded surf culture. Not to mention its quaint interior villages and phenomenal wine regions – all just waiting to be explored. Here we’re offering our take on the must-see Portugal destinations. Choose your favorite and ask your travel designer about adding them into your itinerary.

Lisbon

Lisbon is Portugal’s capital city. And with direct flights from the U.S., it’s usually the first stop on a Portugal itinerary. But the convenience is just one of the many reasons to visit Lisbon. To start, the city has a fascinating history, which is best explored in the Belém neighborhood. As you wander Lisbon (and up those steep hills!), you’ll marvel in the colorful tiles and terracotta roofs of each of the city’s neighborhoods. You can also explore the Lisbon’s burgeoning art scene at museums like the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology; keep your eyes peeled for the incredible street art as well. And then there is the food! Lisbon has one of the most exciting culinary scenes in Europe right now. From multiple Michelin-star restaurants to a smattering of great casual eateries, it’s becoming a serious dining destination.

Porto

The second largest city in Portugal, Porto is a must when it comes to Portugal destinations. You’ll also find an incredible display of architecture here, from the monstrous steel bridges to the intricate tile work. We love simply wandering around Porto into the quaint cafes and along the river, which divides the town. It’s also a great place to take a private tour, be it historical or food-focused. And of course, it’s where port wine is made! Across the bridge in Gaia you can choose from a wide range of port houses. Take a tour and enjoy a tasting!

El Douro

From Porto, there’s no better day trip than a venture through the Douro Valley. This is where all those grapes are grown for port wine, along with a fantastic spread of wineries producing incredible table wines. Here the landscape is so unique. The grapes are grown along the rolling green hills in a terrace system, which makes for some magical views. You can easily rent a car, visit a winery, and head back to Porto for the evening. Or there are also a number of great private tours we recommend so you don’t have to worry about driving (more wine!). One of our favorite companies is Douro Exclusive. If you’re looking to stay longer, they also have an absolutely stunning four-room bed and breakfast that is worth renting for a few luxurious evenings.

The Algarve

For some of the best beaches in Portugal, head south the Algarve region. Many of its beaches are featured on our blog, 7 Best Beaches in Portugal for a reason! Picture the most refreshing blue waters, golden sands, and unique rust-colored rock formations that make this area worth the trip no matter the season. You can also enjoy fun water activities like kayak trips through sea caves and hidden coves, or rent a stand up paddle board and venture around the shores yourself.

Comporta

About one hour north of Lisbon lies the delightful coastal town of Comporta. This may be one of the country’s best kept coastal secrets. What some call “the Hamptons of Portugal,” Comporta is a sleepy village that begs you to sit back and relax. It’s an especially great destination in Portugal to couple with a few busy city days in Lisbon. The accommodations in Comporta are top-notch, with design-forward hotels and luxurious villa stays. If you need to switch things up after a few days at the beach, you can explore Comporta’s natural reserve (there are flamingos!), take a surf lesson, or bike through the nearby rice patties for a little exercise.

Alentejo

When it comes to Portugal’s interior villages, the Alentejo region is at the top of our list. The Alentejo is just southeast of Lisbon, occupying almost one-third of the country, and hosts an expanse of tranquil countryside filled with white-washed villages, oak trees, and olive groves. One of our favorite spots in this area is the São Lourenço do Barrocal, a family estate that has been converted into a truly underrated luxury hotel. A stay here is one of the best ways to take in the Alentejo.

Óbidos

Óbidos is another one of Portugal’s secrets. Just a little over an hour north of Lisbon, it’s a great place to stop if you’re driving from the capital up to Porto. Óbidos is a charming village encircled in Medieval walls. It’s also a UNESCO Creative City and is known as a literary town, with a destination-worthy bookshops that regularly host writing events and book festivals. Get lost in the winding streets and pose for a picture with the magenta bougainvillea all over the town.

Azores

The Azores islands are an archipelago of nine volcanic islands smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is known for its lush landscape and supreme natural beauty and is honestly unlike any place in Europe. It’s a total nature lover’s paradise! If you love to hike, are looking for green forests, or want to take a dip in natural pools and cool ocean waters, this is the place for you.

Ready to explore Portugal for yourself? Reach out to your travel designer and add these top Portugal destinations to your wish list.