9 Lesser known Portugal Coastal Towns

Portugal boasts a coastline that stretches for over a thousand kilometers, offering an array of captivating coastal towns that beckon travelers with their unique charm, history, and natural beauty. Portugal coastal towns, each with its distinct character, are like hidden gems waiting for new visitors to discover them.

Cascais

The beautiful city of Cascais is located only 30 km west of Lisbon. Its history dates back to ancient times when Roman and Moorish settlements were established. Originally the town was just a small fishing village. After King Luís I made it a royal summer residence the place gained a lot of attention and prominence.

The rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean with natural formations like Boca de Inferno (Hell`s Mouth) makes the place look very dramatic. The town`s historic center has charming cobbled streets and colorful buildings with many cafes, restaurants, and shops.

When visiting Cascais you should not miss to visit Marina filled with sailboats and yachts. Guincho Beach, a very windy place, is great for surfing. The town features numerous arg galleries too: Poula Rego House of Stories, Casa das Històrias Paula Rego, or Museu Condes de Castro Guimães.

Sintra

Sintra city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its origin and history go back to ancient times when Celts and Romans used to live there. The city gained popularity mostly during Moorish rule in the Iberian Peninsula. It was used as a summer house for royalty families. Later in the 19th century the place turned into an art center and attracted many poets, writers, and artists. A lot of Romantic literature celebrates its mist-covered landscapes.

The city has many historic palaces, museums, and cultural sites, for example, Palàcio Nacional de Sintra, and Museu de Arte Moderna. Another interesting place to visit is Quinta da REgaleira, a UNESCO site with a mansion, garden, and underground tunnels. Castelo dos Mouros is a Moorish castle that offers great views of the surrounding countryside.  Palàcio da Pena is a colorful fairytale romanticist palace on the hill. Everyone who likes hiking and nature should visit Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Peniche

The town`s origin dates back to ancient times. Once it used to be settled by the Celts and then later occupied by the Romans. During the Portuguese Age of Discoveries, the town used to be an important fishing and shipping hub. Later in the 16th Peniche became famous for its fortress that did a great job in protecting the town from pirate attacks and invasions. The fishing industry still plays a crucial part in the town`s identity and economy.

From the geological point of view, Peniche is surrounded by the Atlantic on three sides, thus it is a haven for all watersports lovers, especially surfers. Besides rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, you can explore natural caves like Gruta da Furna, or a group of islands Berlengas Archipelago.

Some other places in the city worth visiting are Museu da Renda de Bilros (the art of lace-making), Nossa Senhora dos Remèdios Sanctuary (church on a cliff), Praia dos Supertubos (international surf competitions).

Nazare

Nazare was originally a fishing village and it is still evident. Its name is supposed to be derived from a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady Of Nazareth built in the 4^th century.

There are towering cliffs and rugged shorelines around the town. You can find here the famous Nazare Canyon that contributes to the formation of enormous waves thus making the place a magnet for big wave surfers. Sometimes the waves can be as high as 100 feet. You can attend many prestigious surfing events, for example Nazare Tow Surfing Challenge. One of the most famous beaches with massive waves is Praia do Norte, a must-visit for every surfer.

The historic upper part of Sitio has great views of the ocean and has a funicular railway. Another awesome spot with great panoramic views is Nossa Senhora da Nazare Sanctuary. If you want more in-depth knowledge of Nazare history and culture you can visit Museu Dr. Joaquim Manso.

Aveiro

The city is famous for its canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and electrifying cultural scene. Its long history dates back to Roman times when it used to be named Aviarium. The origin of the name is probably the Latin word “aviarium,” which means gathering place for birds. As time went by the city grew into an important fishing center and port town.

The town is situated along a lagoon Ria de Aveiro formed by the Vouge River and the Atlantic. Laggons, coastal landscapes, and sandy beaches make this place very unique. Due to its location water sports like sailing and rowing are very popular. But also sports like soccer are very strong – there are several local soccer teams.

Aveiro is often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal” because of the canals where you can experience boat rides along the charming waterside cafes. When strolling the streets you can adore Art Nouveau buildings, try local seafood like “ovos moles,” and visit Aveiro Cathedral, Salinas de Aveiro, and Barra Lighthouse. There are many museums, art galleries, festivals and cultural events as well, for example Museu de Aveiro.

Tavira

Tavira`s rich history goes back to Roman times. Back then it used to be called Baixa. It used to have a significant role during the Moorish period, later in the 13^th century it was conquered by the Portuguese.

The geology of the place offers a stunning coastal lagoon and nature reserve Ria Formosa Natural Park. There are many sandy beaches and picturesque islands. Thanks it you there are many outdoor sports activities to try like hiking, golf, and of course water sports.

Important spots to visit in Tavira include the Municipal Museum, Tavira Island (accessible by ferry), Tavira Castle, Roman Bridge, and Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo.

Azeitão

The city is located in the Setúbal District. Its long history goes back to Roman times. Back then it used to thrive in olive and grape cultivation. Even its name is believed to be based on the Arabic word “azeitum,” which means olive. It is also known for wine production and fine arts like azulejos (ceramic tilework) as well as the fact, that it has been home to many noble families.

Nature lovers will love visiting the Arrábida Natural Park filled with many limestone mountains, lush forests, and Mediterranean vegetation.

The town has a rich cultural scene, there are many art galleries, festivals, interesting historic mansions, and estates like Quinta da Bacalhôa with a palace, vineyard, and art collections. Other important spots in the town include Convento da Arrábida convent, and Sesimbra beaches located nearby. Wine enthusiasts should visit José Maria da Fonseca Winery – one of the oldest wineries in Portugal. Besides liquids, you can also try local specialties like “tortas de Azeitão” (pastry).

Estoril

Back in Roman times, Estoril used to be a popular destination known for its thermal springs.  Later in the 20^th century, it gained popularity mostly for being a destination for European royalty families and celebrities.

The region has a Mediterranean climate situated along the Estoril Coast with many cliffs, sandy beaches, and clear waters. It has quite a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Besides many art galleries, museums, and theaters, the town has Casino Estoril, a famous entertainment complex with many shows, exhibitions, and concerts. Palácio Nacional de Queluz is another stunning place, a palace that looks like Versailles nearby in Queluz.

The place is suitable for water sports lovers and everyone who wants to try surfing, sailing, windsurfing, or golf. There are two renowned golf clubs – Estoril Golf Club and the Penha Longa Golf Resort. Motorsports events like Estoril Circuit are another typical local attraction. Tamariz Beach is one of the favorite beachfronts with many bars and calm water. On the other hand, Parque Marechal Carmona has lots of lush gardens and many cultural events.

The town is very close to Lisbon, just a short train ride and it is suitable for a day trip or a base for exploring the capital.

Vila Franca do Campo

The town is located not in continental Europe but in the Azores on São Miguel Island. It was one of the first settlements founded in the 15^th century. It was the capital of the Azores until 1522 when the big earthquake and volcanic eruption happened.

Those volcanic landscapes have many green hills and dramatic cliffs around them. Nearby islet of Vila Franca do Campo has a volcanic crater that hosts the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series competition. It is possible to swim and snorkel inside the crater.

Other points of interest include Nossa Senhora da Paz Chapel which offers panoramic views, or Porto Formoso Tea Factory, a nearby tea plantation.

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