Portugal may be compact, but it's a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and attractions, from golden beaches and lush islands to historic towns and vibrant cities. Its picturesque settings, from the Atlantic coastline to the inland mountains and valleys, make it a photographer's paradise.
Here are 20 must-see locations in Portugal that offer stunning photo opportunities.
1. Lisbon
![View of the Alfama district of Lisbon](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-lisbon.jpg)
Lisbon, Portugal's hilly capital, offers breathtaking views from spots like Castelo de São Jorge and São Pedro de Alcântara. Accommodation in Lisbon | More on Lisbon
2. Porto
![Porto and the Douro River](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-porto.jpg)
Porto blends historic charm with modern flair, offering a colorful cityscape and delicious cuisine. More on Porto
3. Palacio Nacional da Pena, Sintra
![Palace of Pena, Sintra](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-palacio-nacional-pena-sintra.jpg)
The Palacio Nacional da Pena is a stunning blend of Manueline and Moorish styles, set in the Sintra hills. More on Sintra
4. Praia do Camilo, Lagos
![Praia do Camilo](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-praia-do-camilo-lagos.jpg)
Praia do Camilo in Lagos is a picturesque beach framed by cliffs, with crystal-clear waters. More on Portugal's beaches
5. Ponta da Piedade, Algarve
![Rock pillars and clear water at Ponta da Piedade](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-ponta-da-piedade.jpg)
Ponta da Piedade is known for its towering rock formations and sea arches, best explored by boat from Lagos. More on the Algarve
6. Benagil Cathedral, Algarve
![Benagil Cathedral](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-benagil-cathedral.jpg)
The Benagil Cathedral is a natural cave with a unique opening, accessible only by boat.
7. Aveiro
![Traditional Portuguese boats in Aveiro](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-aveiro.jpg)
Aveiro, the "Venice of Portugal," is known for its canals and colorful moliceiros boats.
8. Évora
![Templo Romano in Evora](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-evora.jpg)
Évora is a medieval town with well-preserved landmarks like the Templo Romano. More on Évora
9. Azenhas do Mar, Sintra
![The perched village of Azenhas do Mar at sunset](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-azenhas-do-mar-sintra.jpg)
Azenhas do Mar is a cliffside village with stunning views and a natural swimming pool.
10. Obidos
![Obidos](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-obidos.jpg)
Obidos is a picturesque medieval town with cobbled streets and a historic castle.
11. Azores
![Hiker on Corvo Island in the Azores](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-azores.jpg)
The Azores is an archipelago with lush landscapes, perfect for hiking and whale watching.
12. Igreja de São João Baptista, Tomar
![Igreja de Sao Joao Baptista on Tomar's main square](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-igrja-de-sao-joao-baptista-tomar.jpg)
In Tomar, the Igreja de São João Baptista stands out with its Manueline doorway and azulejos.
13. Torre de Belém, Lisbon
![Torre de Belem, Lisbon](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-torre-de-belem.jpg)
The iconic Torre de Belém in Lisbon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history. More on Torre de Belém
14. Câmara de Lobos, Madeira
![Câmara de Lobos on the island of Madeira](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-camara-de-lobos-madeira.jpg)
Câmara de Lobos in Madeira is a picturesque village with a stunning bay and panoramic views.
15. Cabo Girão, Madeira
![Aerial view of the glass skywalk at Cabo Girão](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-cabo-girao-madeira.jpg)
Cabo Girão features a breathtaking glass skywalk overlooking the sea and coastal towns.
16. Douro Valley
![Douro Valley](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-douro-valley.jpg)
The Douro Valley is a UNESCO site with stunning vineyard landscapes and the Douro River.
17. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Lisbon
![Jerónimos Monastery](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-mosteiro-dos-jeronimos.jpg)
The Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon is a historic site with the Church of Santa Maria and ornate cloisters. More on Jerónimos Monastery
18. Guimarães
![Guimaraes Castle](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-guimaraes.jpg)
Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, is a UNESCO site with medieval architecture. More on Guimarães
19. Convento do Cristo, Tomar
![Convento do Cristo in Tomar](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-convento-do-cristo-tomar.jpg)
The Convento do Cristo in Tomar is a historic site once home to the Knights Templar.
20. Coimbra
![University of Coimbra](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-coimbra.jpg)
Coimbra, home to Portugal's first university, is a charming city with a mix of architectural styles. More on Coimbra
21. Ponte de Dom Luís I, Porto
![Ponte de Dom Luís I over the Duoro River in Porto](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-ponte-de-dom-luis-porto.jpg)
The Ponte de Dom Luís I in Porto is a stunning bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel.
22. Bom Jesus do Monte, Tenões
![Baroque staircase Bom Jesus do Monte](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-bom-jesus-do-monte.jpg)
Bom Jesus do Monte in Tenões features a grand Baroque staircase leading to a hilltop church.
23. Praça do Rossio, Lisbon
![Rossio Square in Lisbon](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-praca-do-rossio.jpg)
Praça do Rossio in Lisbon is a bustling square with cafes, shops, and historic fountains.
24. Braga
![Palacio do Raio in Braga, Portugal](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-braga.jpg)
Braga is a lively city with Baroque architecture and the stunning Palácio do Raio. More on Braga
25. Cascais
![Santa Marta Lighthouse in Cascais](/media/portugal-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-cascais.jpg)
Cascais is a chic coastal village and a popular summer retreat near Lisbon.