Hidden Gems in Portugal: Places Most Travelers Miss!

The best way to see Portugal (in our opinion) is to get off the beaten track. In this guide, we’re sharing our favorite hidden gems in Portugal — the places that surprised us most, felt refreshingly uncrowded, and will show you a side of Portugal most travelers never see.

Portugal may be known for its postcard-perfect cities and iconic viewpoints, but some of the country’s most unforgettable experiences lie far beyond the typical tourist track. 

In a world where everyone is chasing the same Instagram-famous spots, discovering something unique feels rare. 

In this guide, we’re sharing the hidden gems that made us fall even more in love with Portugal. Places that feel authentic, surprising, and refreshingly quiet. 

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual Lisbon–Porto–Sintra circuit, these spots will show you a side of Portugal most travelers never see.

Our experience in Portugal

Portugal had been on our wish list for years, so when we finally planned the trip, I was determined to make it special. 

While I love big cities and iconic sights, the places that stay with me most are hidden gems that you won’t find on a basic Google search or by asking ChatGPT.

We visited the classics—Lisbon, Porto, Sintra—but we also ventured into regions that even locals were surprised we were exploring. In several places, we hardly saw another foreign traveler.

If you have a similar travel style, this article is going to be a perfect starting point for planning a Portugal trip where you don’t feel like you’re just checking off the same list as everyone else.

Trust me when I say I spent countless hours researching to find these places. It didn’t come easy, but I’m happy to share all my hard work with fellow travelers with the same style. Just do me a favor and let me know how much you loved your trip!

See our favorite hidden gems come to life in these videos of our Portugal trip…

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1. Lousã shale villages

This region about halfway between Lisbon and Porto is home to a number of traditional schist villages (a type of stone similar to shale) sprinkled throughout the Lousã mountain range.

Cerdeira

After being abandoned in the 1970s, this historic village would have been demolished; instead, it was restored and transformed into an art haven and boutique hotel.

Each private house is uniquely designed and has its own perks. We stayed in the 1-bedroom house called “Tree” and can confidently say you’ll definitely want one with a balcony!

Things to do in Cerdeira

• Order an artisanal beer or local wine at the little onsite cafe and enjoy it on the shaded terrace
  • Tip: The bruschetta is great and makes a nice afternoon snack
• Relax on your private balcony: this is the perfect place to slow down with a cup of coffee and a good book!
• Read up on the village history: each house has a book with lots of information
• Wander the grounds: walk down to the little creek at the very end of the village, there are some small ruins here
• Take a dip at the idyllic swimming hole on the property
• See if there are any art classes happening during your stay (you may want to email ahead of your visit)
• Hike to a waterfall in the nearby village of Candal

If there aren’t any houses in Cerdeira available for your travel dates, this dreamy property in nearby Talasnal is a good alternative.

Talasnal

Talasnal is one of the most famous shale villages in the region, yet somehow still feels hushed and atmospheric. The village is tiny but incredibly charming, with stone houses stacked along the hillside and an almost cinematic feel.

We personally visited as a day trip, but there are several hotels & Airbnbs if you wanted to spend the night.

We’d recommend you avoid midday if you can because the light is pretty harsh. There are a few small restaurants serving regional dishes, though hours vary and midday closures are common.

From the village, we followed an easy walking path to a small waterfall. If I’m being honest, we’ve seen better (we live in Oregon, after all). But it was completely empty, and having it all to ourselves made it feel like a hidden gem within a hidden gem.

Lousã Castle

Also known as Castelo de Arouce, this moody medieval castle is worth a visit if you’re in the Lousã region.

Unfortunately when we were there the access road had been closed for repairs following a recent storm. Apparently this happens fairly often, so check before going.

We were still able to get a great view of the castle from above at this viewpoint. You can also check out this small waterfall as well as this swimming hole near the castle.

2. Monsanto

This fairytale village built on boulders is nicknamed “the most Portuguese village of Portugal”—yet somehow, it is still overlooked by most tourists. In fact, even a lot of Portuguese people we met had never been here.

The best way to experience Monsanto is to spend the night. Wandering the winding streets and castle ruins in the pink glow of golden hour (with only one or two other tourists in sight)  was one of the highlights of our entire trip.

We’ll soon be publishing a detailed Monsanto guide, so stay tuned for that!

3. Peneda-Gerês National Park

This is Portugal’s only national park, and it’s pretty different from the kinds of national parks we’re used to.

Unlike national parks in the US, Peneda-Gerês has no entry gates or fees. The massive park stretches over 5 municipalities and there are lots of little villages within its boundaries.

Though it is well known within Portugal, most travelers skip Peneda-Gerês National Park. I can honestly understand why; planning our time here was tricky because we couldn’t find a lot of info online in English. 

But with its endless waterfalls, secret swimming pools, and fairytale villages, I can tell you it is absolutely worth the effort!

Sete Lagoas hike

This hike, whose name translates to “Seven Lagoons”, was one of the highlights of our entire Portugal trip.

The trail leads to an oasis of 7 jade-green pools so crystal-clear you can see right to the bottom. Warmed by the sun and fed by mini waterfalls that cascade gently from one pool to the next, the lagoons are ideal for swimming, lounging, and cooling off.

We spent a couple of hours here and, even though the weather was perfect, we only saw a couple of other people at the pools.

Insider tip: The hike is fully exposed the entire way so bring sun protection, hats, and plenty of water. Also, pack (or wear) your swimsuit for the pools.

Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas

If you don’t have time in your itinerary for the Sete Lagoas hike but still want to swim at a waterfall, Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas could be a good alternative.

Just off the road, a short, steep climb down some steps and rocks will bring you to a network of pools and waterfalls.

Before visiting Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas, here are a couple of important things you should know:

• The pools here can be more crowded than Sete Lagoas since these are so close to the road.
• There is no parking lot, so it may be hard to find a spot to park. Use caution and make sure you park somewhere safe.
• Be careful when climbing down, as it is a steep descent and may be slippery.

Ponte da Misarela

If you have time and are up for a short hike, the walk to Ponte da Misarela (pictured above) is worth it. It’s a medieval stone bridge spanning the gorge of Rabagão River.

Where to eat in Peneda-Gerês National Park

• Bar Sete Lagoas: located at the trailhead for the Sete Lagoas hike, this snack bar is a convenient place to grab a bite after your hike, or bring a snack along for a picnic at the pools
• Taberna São Tiago: cozy terrace with a lovely atmosphere serving rustic local dishes 
• Café Fojo dos Lobos: casual restaurant with burgers & really good cocktails; you could also come here just for cocktails after dinner 
• Restaurante Retiro do Gerês: higher-end dining experience (reservations recommended)

4. Azenhas do Mar

We were so glad we decided to stay overnight night in Azenhas do Mar! Most people stop here, snap a few photos, and leave. But spend the night and you’ll see when the real magic happens…

Once the crowds of daytrippers disappear, this cliffside village of whitewashed houses and red roofs feels wildly romantic, with the Atlantic crashing below and golden light bouncing off the cliffs.

Dinner at Restaurante Azenhas do Mar was absolutely a highlight of our visit.

• Hours: 12:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. daily
• Reservations: recommended; reserve online or via WhatsApp at +351 914 829 731
• What to order: Cataplana de peixe (seafood pot), bread, white sangria, passion fruit mousse
• Insider tip: Book a table outside and time your meal for golden hour

After dinner, walk back up the stairs near the restaurant to this viewpoint, which is especially beautiful at sunset.

Where to stay in Azenhas do Mar

Our top recommendation is Azenhas do Mar Valley House, where we personally stayed.

Though only 15 minutes from Sintra, it’s so much quieter that it feels like a well-kept secret. Their breakfast buffet is fantastic (lots of fresh fruit!), and the property’s stunning design is totally Instagram-worthy.

Alternatives:

• West Coast Design and Surf Villas
• Casa Condessa
• Caso no Campo

5. Ursa Beach

Ursa Beach has been named one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Europe, and it’s easy to see why.

Azure waves lap a swath of golden sand, cradled in a nook of sheer granite cliffs. Dramatic rock formations rise from the sea like sentinels guarding the shore.

The only way to reach the beach is a steep, gnarly descent down the windswept cliffs. We only hiked a portion of the trail, but the amazing views—and the fact that we hardly saw anyone else there—made this one of our favorite hidden gems in the area.

Note: We were here in late May and had this hike mostly to ourselves, but I’d expect to see more people on the trail and at the beach during peak summer tourist season.

How to get there: Park here (or drive ½ mile closer to start of the hike with high clearance car) 

Want to make this a longer hike? This loop trail takes you to Ursa Beach as well as Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.

6. Alpaca farm

Now that we travel with a toddler, we try to include some activities on our trips that center her interests. The thing is, we’re not big fans of theme parks, zoos, or other “typical” family travel, so we need to get a little creative. 

This alpaca farm experience checked all the boxes!

First, the sweet owner gave us a tour of the farm and we spent some time feeding, brushing, and cuddling the alpacas. Then we gathered in the barn for a felting workshop and made crafts with the alpaca wool.

At the end of the day, you get to take home your own handfelted creation—a perfect souvenir that will remind you of your experience every time you look at it (my favorite kind!).

Our 3-year-old loved this experience (she kept talking about it for weeks afterward), but it was also fun for adults. Now that’s the kind of family travel we like! 

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Bonus: Not hidden gems, but less crowded

7. Sintra

Okay, so Sintra is far from a hidden gem itself—but there are a couple of places to escape the crowds here if you know where to look.

Moorish Castle

We found this castle to be less crowded than other sites we visited in Sintra. Plus, it’s much bigger and more open than some hotspots like Quinta da Regaleira, so visitors are more dispersed.

The hilltop views over Sintra and the surrounding forest are stunning, and the castle walls themselves are fun to walk along. Give yourself at least an hour to explore.

Convento dos Capuchos

Looking for a true hidden gem in Sintra? This lesser-known monastery was on our list to visit, but unfortunately it was closed during our trip.

Built in the 16th century to house friars who lived an intentionally austere life, Convento dos Capuchos is unlike anything else in Sintra. 

The architecture is plain and unassuming, but that’s kind of the point. You’ll squeeze through tiny doors and narrow passageways, peek into cramped living quarters with cork-lined walls, and find moss and vines slowly reclaiming the stone. 

It sounds wonderfully atmospheric and refreshingly quiet compared to the rest of Sintra.

8. Costa Nova

Costa Nova isn’t exactly a hidden gem, but it’s not on most Portugal itineraries either — and it’s far less crowded than it deserves to be. If you’re in the area, it makes a nice stop.

The main draw is the row of candy-striped houses at Casas Típicas da Costa Nova, which are every bit as charming in person as they look in photos. Snap your pictures, then head to the beach for lunch.

Our top pick is Bronze Seafood & Lounge Bar, a casual beachside spot with really solid seafood. What to order: the ceviche, calamari, shishito peppers, seared ahi, and prawns. And save room for the white chocolate mousse with passionfruit — you won’t regret it!

If Bronze is full, Restaurante Sétimo Beach Club is a solid alternative with sandwiches and seafood right on the beach.

9. Bom Jesus do Monte

Just outside the city of Braga, this hillside sanctuary is best known for its grand baroque stairway and ornate fountains — and it’s well worth a stop if you’re in northern Portugal.

Our recommended approach:

Park at the top (fee €2–10) and start by exploring the basilica, gardens, and viewpoints. The artificial cave tucked into the grounds was pretty neat. Then walk down the famous stairway to admire the fountains up close before taking either the stairs or the charming funicular (€2) back up to the top.

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Want the perfect Portugal trip planned for you?

Looking for a way to see all Portugal’s hidden gems in one trip?

Want to see more of the country?

We planned the PERFECT (I don’t say that lightly!) Portugal road trip itinerary and it is totally done-for-you, including the places we actually stayed at with two kids, and all our tips for where to eat and how to spend your time.

I cannot stop raving about our hidden gems road trip route. Crafted from our own travels plus countless hours of research and insider tips from locals, this itinerary will save you SO MUCH TIME.

All you need to do is worry about packing (and again, we’ve got all sorts of tips for you there!)

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If you like doing all the research and planning yourself, we totally get it!

Plan your trip to Portugal

From vibrant cities to seaside escapes, we’ve got everything you need to plan the perfect Portugal adventure—from city guides and road trip itineraries to food tips and hidden gems! Start with our Portugal homepage or dive into some of our favorite articles below…

• Ultimate Portugal Parking List: What to wear, plus exactly what we brought
• 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary: Explore Portugal’s lively capital like a pro
• 2-Day Porto Itinerary: Discover this charming riverside city in a weekend
• Douro Valley Day Trip Guide: options for self-driving or joining a guided tour (no DD needed!)
• Madeira Travel Guide: filled with insider info you need to know before arriving
• Portugal With Kids: Things I wish I knew before traveling to Portugal with a baby & a toddler

Don’t miss your chance to grab our Portugal Packing Checklist!

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these hidden gems in Portugal have you heard of before? Are there any that surprised you? Are you planning a trip to Portugal and have more questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!