14 of the Most Jaw-Droppingly Beautiful Places in Portugal

Portugal is about the same size as the state of Indiana, but it’s filled with beautiful landscapes, as well as charming towns and cities. From dramatic coastlines to lush vineyards, Portugal offers endless opportunities for breathtaking travel and landscape photos.

This article highlights 14 of the most beautiful places in Portugal, each offering unique photographic potential.

The Most Beautiful Places in Portugal

1. Sete Cidades

In the lush heart of São Miguel in the Azores, Sete Cidades offers stunning natural beauty. The two twin lakes—Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde—are framed by steep crater walls, creating a breathtaking view. Capture the vivid contrasts of the blue and green waters from the Vista do Rei viewpoint at sunrise for an iconic shot.

The surrounding greenery adds layers of texture and depth to your compositions, with countless angles to explore. The allure of Sete Cidades lies in its serene landscapes that change with the light, making every photograph unique.

2. Benagil Sea Cave

Located along the Algarve coastline, the Benagil Sea Cave is a true marvel. This iconic site is known for its stunning dome-like rock formations and a natural skylight that illuminates the interior with a mystical glow.

You can only reach the inside of the cave via water. Boat tours are available, or you can rent a kayak. Alternatively, you can walk to the top to get a view looking down into the cave without venturing into the water.

3. Ribeira in Porto

Porto’s Ribeira district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with colorful houses and historic charm. The vibrant facades of the buildings are a perfect photo subject, offering endless possibilities.

Photographers will appreciate the contrast of old-world architecture against the tranquil Douro River. Capture the district at sunset to see the colors come alive, or wander through the narrow streets to photograph candid moments of everyday life.

4. Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is a landscape photographer’s dream with its rolling vineyards and majestic river meandering through the hills. This region, famous for producing port wine, offers panoramic views and a wealth of photographic opportunities.

Capture the symmetry of the terraced vineyards, or focus on the reflections in the river as it winds through the valley.

5. Sintra

Sintra, with its romantic palaces and misty mountains, is a fairytale brought to life. It’s a place where photographers can capture opulent architecture set against lush, forested hills. The eclectic style of Pena Palace, with its vivid colors and intricate details, offers a striking subject you’ll love to photograph.

Explore beyond the palaces to capture the dense vegetation and hidden trails that add a mysterious aura to this magical landscape.

6. Peneda-Gerês National Park

Peneda-Gerês is a sanctuary of untouched wilderness. Its rugged landscapes, dotted with waterfalls and ancient oak forests, provide a backdrop of raw beauty for photographers seeking nature’s untamed side.

The park’s diverse ecosystems offer opportunities to capture wildlife, from wild horses to majestic birds of prey.

7. Alentejo Coast

The Alentejo Coast, with its golden beaches and rolling dunes, offers a serene escape for landscape photographers. This area is less frequented by tourists, providing a sense of solitude and an opportunity to capture the untouched beauty of Portugal’s coastline.

Photograph the sweeping vistas of sandy beaches meeting azure waters, or explore the small fishing villages for a glimpse into local life.

8. Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The sheer cliffs and the iconic lighthouse perched atop them make for striking compositions.

Photographers will find the dramatic landscape offers numerous angles to play with perspective and scale.

9. Madeira’s Levadas

Madeira is famed for its network of levadas—irrigation channels that traverse the island’s lush landscapes. These pathways offer photographers a unique vantage point to capture Madeira’s diverse flora and sweeping views.

The levadas guide photographers through verdant valleys and misty forests, allowing for intimate shots of the island’s natural beauty. The contrast of vibrant greens against clear blue skies creates a harmonious balance.

10. The Berlengas

This small archipelago off the coast of Peniche is a hidden gem for photographers seeking dramatic landscapes and seascapes. The rugged terrain and crystal-clear waters make the Berlengas a paradise for photography.

Photograph the stunning Fort of São João Baptista, perched on the cliffs, surrounded by the turquoise sea.

11. Azenhas do Mar

Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque village nestled on the cliffs of the Atlantic coast. The whitewashed houses appear to tumble down the hillside.

Capture the village from the cliffs above to emphasize its dramatic setting, or focus on the details of its narrow streets and traditional architecture. The ocean waves crashing below add a dynamic element to the serene landscape.

12. Farol do Arnel

On the northern tip of São Miguel in the Azores, Farol do Arnel lighthouse is surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery. Its red tower stands out against the lush greenery, making it a striking focal point for photographs.

The steep path leading down to the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline. Visit at sunrise or sunset to capture the lighthouse bathed in golden light.

13. Vila Franca Islet

This volcanic islet off the coast of São Miguel is a unique natural reserve that offers a stunning circular lagoon.

14. Madeira

Madeira Island is known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic.” From its rugged cliffs to lush forests, Madeira offers diverse landscapes to explore.

Photograph the island’s spectacular waterfalls, towering peaks, and charming villages. The changing light and weather conditions create endless possibilities for dramatic.