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Portugal's most beautiful villages: a complete guide
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When was the last time you left the main roads and ventured onto the secondary ones? If you always feel like travelling but don't have the time for great adventures, explore the complete guide to Portugal's most beautiful villages that Guerin has prepared for you.
Just a short distance from the main cities, enjoy a journey full of traditions, unique cuisine and the essence of our country's identity. Discover our selection.
From North to South: which are the most beautiful villages in The North?
The best part of your journey through Portugal's most beautiful villages begins as soon as you hit the road to your destination. You can choose to navigate using a map for a more traditional and adventurous experience, or you can book a GPS, as the mobile phone network may not always be available along the way.
You will delve into our origins, partake in a live history lesson, and discover the most authentic aspects of Portuguese territory. Are you prepared to begin your journey?
The North: a journey to the essence of the country
Some of the most beautiful villages in Portugal can be found all over the country. However, the northern region is well-known for its incredible landscapes, where the lush greenery of nature contrasts with the granite used in most of its villages. Be sure to take note of some of the places you cannot miss.
Castro Laboreiro (Melgaço)
In the heart of the Peneda Gerês National Park, Castro Laboreiro hides a fabulous part of our history. Here you'll find one of the richest prehistoric heritages in Portugal, with cave paintings and around 120 dolmens and cists.
What to visit?
- Castro Laboreiro Castle
- Castro Laboreiro Mills
- Castro Laboreiro Museum Centre
- Penedaventura Park
- Tour of the lagoons of Gerês National Park
- Ecotura - Horse riding
- Canyoning
Montesinho (Bragança)
Located at an altitude of over 1,000 metres, Montesinho is one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. Check out the cars for hire available from Guerin, as you'll need a good travelling companion for this trip. Located in Bragança, within the Montesinho Natural Park. It is a village that has been renovated but still maintains its authenticity due to its typical Trás-os-Montes's construction: granite houses with slate roofs and wooden balconies.
What to visit and to do?
- Veiguinhas Dam
- Montesinho Museum
- Church of St Anthony
There is a 10-kilometre walk between the villages of Montesinho, França and Portelo, where you may spot a golden eagle, a black stork, or a deer.
Sistelo (Arcos de Valdevez)
The village of Sistelo is in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. It is part of one of the most beautiful eco-trails, perfect for ecotourism enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its terraced landscape has earned it the nickname 'Portuguese Tibet'.
What to visit and to do?
- Ecovia do Vez
- Sistelo Castle
- Soajo granaries
This town is close to several music festivals, such as 'Ínsua do Vez' and 'Sons do Vez'. Take the opportunity to explore the local countryside by following the designated routes.
Centre: are the most beautiful villages in Portugal here?
In the Centre region, we have no shortage of candidates for our list of Portugal's most beautiful villages. After all, most of our country's historic and the Schist Villages can be found in this region. But we've decided to help you out and choose what to visit in the Centre of Portugal.
Marialva (Mêda)
Marialva is on the list of Portugal's 12 historic villages. It is located just 7 kilometres from Mêda and is, for many, a well-hidden secret in our country. However, did you know that some of the deepest roots of our country's history are to be found here? Here you'll find many legends and stories of the conquests of the Romans, Suevi and Arabs.
What to visit and to do?
- The Castle
- Chapel of Santa Bárbara
- Old Town Hall
There are various adventure and nature tours available, whether by car, on foot, or by bicycle. The choice is yours.
Azenhas do Mar (Sintra)
Very close to the capital is one of Portugal's most beautiful villages: Azenhas do Mar. For those looking to spend an idyllic weekend by the sea, this is the perfect destination. Its little houses slope down the hillside to the sea, in possibly one of the most photographed landscapes in Portugal. Incredible views and tasty seafood dishes await you.
What to visit and to do?
- Azenhas do Mar Viewpoint
- Pena National Park and Palace
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Queluz National Palace
- Take a photographic stroll through the village streets.
- In summer, take a dip in the ocean pool.
Sortelha (Sabugal)
Sortelha is renowned for its unchanged architectural structure from the Renaissance to the present day. The alleys within the walls lead to the castle, passing by medieval graves.
What to visit and to do?
- Tower of Serra da Estrela
- Medieval Fair ‘Walls with History’
- Belmonte
- Monsanto
Wear comfortable shoes because Sortelha is a must-see stop on the GR 22 - Great Route of the Villages of Portugal, with a series of trails, walks, and cycle routes waiting for you.
Portugal's most beautiful villages in the South
The South isn't all beaches. There are also small towns that attract many visitors with their whitewashed streets and the peace they offer. In this region, you can find some of the most beautiful villages in Portugal.
Evoramonte (Évora)
Évora Monte or Evoramonte, with a population of less than 600 inhabitants, may seem unnoticed, but it has a lot to offer with its seven centuries of history. The town was of great geographical and military importance, with its impressive walls and the notable presence of the House of Bragança.
What to visit and to do?
- Evoramonte Castle
- Parish Church
- Evoramonte Common Barn
- Cultural and themed excursions
- Workshops linked to local crafts and traditions.
- Visit Marvão and Monsaraz
Porto Covo (Sines)
The village of Porto Covo, recovered by the Marquis of Pombal after the 1755 earthquake, is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. It maintains its charm as a small fishing village, with simple white houses by the sea. Surrounded by the island of Pessegueiro, and in the summer, you can still find rugged, hidden, and almost deserted beaches. It's a little slice of paradise on earth.
What to visit and to do?
- Porto Covo's historic centre
- Salto Beach
- Herdade do Pessegueiro
- Cycling excursions along the Costa Vicentina
- Cliff paths to discover Porto Covo's best beaches
- Boat trip to Pessegueiro Island
Monsaraz (Reguengos de Monsaraz)
Monsaraz maintains its medieval charm with its ancient walls and houses made of lime and schist. You can experience breathtaking views of the Guadiana River, the Spanish border, and the stunning Alqueva Dam. Discover local crafts, immerse yourself in history, and indulge in the delicious gastronomy of the region.
What to visit and to do?
- Visit the Castle
- The historic streets
- Évora
- Herdade do Esporão
- Hot air balloon ride
- Sherry Cromlech
- Olive Oil Museum
- Alentejo Cante House
Visit Portugal's most beautiful villages with Guerin
Rent a car in Portugal at Guerin stations across the country including the islands, with extensive and competitively priced car fleet. Whether you're exploring the north's mountains, the Alentejo plains, or the central region's winding roads, having an additional driver can enhance your trip. When booking, consider adding an extra driver to share the driving duties and make the most of your journey. There are endless possibilities and plenty of enthusiasm, so why wait to start your adventure?
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