Oh, Portugal. How many times have I fallen in love here? With its people, its sun kissing my face, its Atlantic coastal wind dancing around my nose. With its sweet snacks, its seemingly endless beaches, its café scene.
As I’m writing these lines, I’m sitting in exactly one of these Portuguese cafés, a vegan Pastel de Nata in my belly, chatting with a fun waiter while he’s struggling with the stereo, but always a smile on his face and up for a joke.
A few years ago, I embarked on a road trip through Portugal and have returned almost every year since.
And yes, places like Lisbon and Porto are among my favorite places in Europe. But just as much as I love these cities, I adore the small towns away from the tourist crowds, where you can get a more authentic feel for life in Portugal. Where time seems to run a bit slower, and you can really dive into Portuguese culture.
That’s why it was about time to write a post gathering my favorite hidden gems in Portugal off the beaten path. Besides, I’ve asked some travel buddies about their favorite lesser-known places in Portugal and got some great secret escapes that I’ve added.
Are you curious? Let’s dive right in.
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Hidden gems in Portugal
Why visit hidden gems in Portugal off the beaten path?
First things first: Before diving into the wonderful hidden gems in Portugal, let’s talk about the importance of spreading tourism.
The travel industry often promotes destinations that are already suffering from over-tourism. No community or environment can endure being constantly overrun by tourists.
At first glance, it may seem beneficial for the economy to be a popular tourist destination, but it’s important to consider the consequences. Who is responsible for managing the excessive waste produced? Who can afford housing when rents are increased to accommodate hotels? And who is forced to leave their homes due to the influx of visitors?
In the end, it is the locals, the environment, and the wildlife that bear the brunt of over-visited places.
Visiting lesser-known towns instead of typical “must-sees” reduces the strain on certain regions and distributes the economic benefits of tourism more evenly across communities. And you can have a more authentic experience at your destination. You can feel the real charm without restaurants jumping at you with tourist menus in all European languages.
Moving around consciously, experiencing Portugal with all senses, diving into nature and exploring hidden corners is so much easier when you don’t have to slog your way through tourist masses, don’t you think?
That’s why it’s absolutely worth visiting places off the beaten path in Portugal. And the country is full of amazing small towns – true hidden gems in Portugal where you can dive into the local culture, soak up the Portuguese sun and have the best travel experience. So stay open for seeing this gorgeous country with different eyes instead of ticking off the boxes like thousands before.
1 | Tomar
Located around one hour by car or two hours by train from Lisbon, the small town of Tomar is a unique hidden gem in Portugal. It has a gorgeous historic town center with narrow cobblestoned alleys and colorful traditional houses with tiny doors (being a small person myself, I honestly wondered how these doors work for people over 1.60m).
But what makes Tomar truly special is its rich history. Before coming to Tomar, I had no idea, that this small town used to be the main settlement of the Knights Templar. In the medieval age, Tomar used to be a prominent town due to its strategic location along the Nabão River and its fertile plains.
There’s a well-preserved large castle you can visit and learn more about its history. The Convento de Cristo was established in the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Make sure to also stop by Insensato Café-Livraria, a cute café and bookshop. On a hot day, visit the cute village Constância close by, where you can even find a lovely sandy river beach to cool down from Portugal’s heat.
Impressions of Tomar
Where to stay in Tomar?
Horta do Cedros offers a beautifully decorated, modern little house with a gorgeous garden. Here you can enjoy peaceful, private and comfortable accommodation within walking distance to Tomar’s town center.
2 | Ponte de Lima
This hidden gem in Portugal’s north is the oldest town in Portugal. Nestled in the lush Lima River Valley, its name (meaning “Bridge of Lima”) comes from the iconic Roman bridge that spans the river, a testament to its strategic importance in medieval times.
For nature lovers, the town offers the Ecovia do Rio Lima, a scenic trail along the river that offers many opportunities for hiking and cycling amidst lovely landscapes.
Although it’s located off the beaten path in Portugal, you can easily reach Ponte de Lima in around 1.5 hours by car from Porto. Other gorgeous towns such as Braga and Guimarães are also not far. So is the beach (around 30 minutes) and Gerês National Park (around 1.5 hours).
I also highly recommend visiting the waterfall Cascatas do Rio Cabrão – one of the best hidden gems in Portugal.
For great food, head to Orelha d’Elefante or Lovers Philosophy café and you can get amazing bread at á antiga – padaria artesanal.
Impressions of Ponte de Lima
Where to stay in Ponte de Lima?
Set in a beautiful vineyard, Casa da Roseira offers an exceptional experience. Here you can experience breakfast on your terrace and dip into the refreshing pool between gorgeous fruit trees before heading out to explore town. A true gem within easy walking distance to the town center of Ponte de Lima!
3 | Vila Nova de Milfontes
If you’d like to enjoy some beach time where the locals go to somewhere off the beaten path in Portugal, Vila Nova de Milfontes is the right place for you. Located right by a river delta, the beach here is absolutely beautiful. I had the feeling that it’s still mostly visited by Portuguese tourists, which is why it keeps its local flair.
The area around (Alentejo and Costa Vicentina) is a true treasure full of amazing beaches. Portugal’s Atlantic coast offers numerous stunning cliffs and beaches for surfers and for those who like to chill and watch. In this region, you can experience nature at its best. In the natural park, you’re surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, surfing hot spots, and countryside full of cork trees.
Vila Nova de Milfontes is home to a down-to-earth beach restaurant, A Choupana, which is very much worth a visit for a typical Portuguese dinner while watching the sun set above the sea.
Impressions of Vila Nova de Milfontes
Where to stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes?
What an oasis! Villa Eira awaits you with typically Portuguese colorful rooms. Modern and charming yet telling Portuguese stories. This is the perfect place to stay in Vila Nova de Milfontes. You’ll love the garden with the pool!
4 | Ferragudo
Ferragudo has been such a beautiful surprise. It’s a small but picturesque fishing village located on Portugal’s famous Algarve. Although it’s right on the opposite side of the popular destination Portimão, simply separated by the Arade River, it has a completely different flair.
The village has managed to retain its authentic charm, making it an awesome hidden gem in Portugal when you’re looking for a serene escape. With its cobbled maze of alleys, whitewashed houses covered with vibrant bougainvillea, it is truly beautiful but very tranquil – just how you’d experience all the Portuguese coastal villages without the exploded tourism.
Wander through narrow alleys lined with traditional cottages, and visit the Igreja de Ferragudo, a white and yellow church offering panoramic views over the river. Of course, there are countless adorable beaches close by, making Ferragudo a great base for exploring the lesser-visited spots in the Algarve.
Impressions of Ferragudo
Where to stay in Ferragudo?
Ferragudo Aqua Charm is a quaint and beautiful house, decorated with great attention to detail. It’s well equipped so you can also cook you own dinners and only a ten-minute walk to lovely Ferragudo.
5 | Gerês National Park
Located in Portugal’s remote and less popular north, Peneda-Gerês National Park is said to be the country’s oldest protected area and only national park. However, despite its uniqueness, it remains remarkably under the radar and is a wonderful hidden gem in Portugal off the beaten path.
Fortunately, mass tourism has not arrived yet in its rugged terrain and wild nature, making it one of the best slow travel destinations in Europe. This immensity leaves space for travelers looking to immerse themselves in luxurious nature, spontaneity, and slowness. That’s the norm here, you don’t come to rush. Most people don’t. Maybe it’s the silence or the wolves. Who knows? But it’s definitely not a place for ticking boxes.
Life in Gerês is very lively but on its own terms. The park hosts many fauna species such as wolves, wild horses, Ibex, and 11,000 inhabitants live in this protected area. Away from big cities and political pressure, it’s nothing to say that they still cultivate deep cultural habits.
Traditional mountain communities like Soajo or Lindoso tend to preserve Portuguese traditions without being driven by tourism benefits.
When going there, one can end up witnessing bread being baked in communal ovens, hearing Galician-Portuguese spoken in everyday conversation, or spontaneously joining a village festival that has little interest in outside attention. Who knows what’s next?
During a visit to the Gerês National Park, many surprises and activities await you. The most obvious one is to explore it on foot. Mountain trails crisscross the park, leaving hundreds of possibilities to choose from. The landscape is diverse, honestly impressive for every outdoor lover, and you can encounter beautiful waterfalls, stunning lakes, blossoming fields, or luxurious forests.
Then, exploring the Espigueiros de Soajo (impressive former granite corn storage), the Peneda’s sanctuary facing a waterfall after a 300-hundred stair climb, or the submerged village of Vilarinho are all attractions worth seeing.
Impressions of Gerês National Park
Where to stay close to Gerês National Park?
A small boutique hotel in a typical Portuguese house, Quinta do Bento is a beautiful accommodation with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a restaurant. What a welcoming, peaceful retreat off the beaten path in Portugal!
6 | Pico Island
Pico Island is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. Set in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,400 km west of mainland Europe, it’s the second-largest island in the Azores archipelago. At just 300,000 years old, Pico is a geological newborn—and it shows. Volcanic rock stretches as far as the eye can see, and signs of geologic activity are everywhere.
It’s home to Portugal’s highest point: Mount Pico, a dormant volcano rising 2,351 meters above sea level. For adventurous travelers in good shape, reaching the summit is a rewarding challenge. The climb is demanding, but doesn’t require technical skills—just stamina, determination, and the help of a local guide.
But Pico has more than epic landscapes. Despite its rugged terrain and dramatic black cliffs, the island produces truly unique wines. Grape cultivation began with the first Portuguese settlers over 500 years ago, and the traditional stone-walled vineyards are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wines here are known for their bold aromas and rich texture, making it a must for any wine lover.
Pico also shines beyond the land. The surrounding waters are among the best in the world for spotting whales and dolphins, with several local companies offering respectful, small-scale excursions.
The best way to explore Pico is by rental car, giving travelers the freedom to discover its sleepy seaside villages, soak in the island’s laid-back vibe, and enjoy delicious Azorean cuisine at their own pace. And don’t miss a sunset toast at the iconic Cella Bar.
Impressions of Pico Island
Where to stay in Pico Island?
With just 14,000 residents, Pico offers limited but charming accommodation off the beaten path in Portugal. For a unique stay, try Pico Terramar & SPA. Prefer something traditional? Porto Velho Boutique Hostel is a wonderful choice as well.
Contributed by Danae | Danae Explore
7 | Amarante
Tucked away in the lush hills in the north, Amarante is a hidden gem in Portugal that offers a rich, authentic experience far from the usual tourist trails. Just an hour’s drive from Porto, it’s one of the most rewarding day trips from Porto for travelers seeking culture, history, and tranquility in equal measure.
Set along the banks of the Tâmega River, Amarante charms visitors with its cobbled streets, traditional bakeries, and the striking São Gonçalo Bridge. This quaint town exudes a warm, artistic vibe, with galleries, street musicians, and family-run cafes around every corner.
The pace of life here is unhurried, inviting travelers to slow down and truly connect with the local rhythm off the beaten path in Portugal.
Spend 1-2 days wandering through historic churches, sipping vinho verde at a riverside terrace, or exploring the local markets. Art lovers will appreciate the Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum, showcasing works by one of Portugal’s most celebrated modernist painters.
Impressions of Amarante
Where to stay in Amarante?
One of the best ways to enjoy Amarante is by staying at Casa do Fontário, a stylish boutique hotel that blends modern comforts with timeless elegance. Nestled in the heart of town, it offers the perfect base to explore the region while enjoying the serenity of its riverside views and curated design.
Contributed by Mayuri | ToSomePlaceNew
8 | Monsanto
Perched on a hill in the centre of Portugal is Monsanto, officially named ‘the most Portuguese village in Portugal’.
It’s a quaint, hilly village where the cobbled roads are too small for cars and where the buildings are built on top of each other as they rise up the steep hills. But, what makes it even more special are the huge granite boulders scattered throughout the village. Houses have grown up around them, and in many cases, they’ve formed their walls, roofs and even the furniture.
You’ll find a few tourists but it’s largely escaped mass tourism, being a bit off the beaten path in Portugal. The streets are quiet and most buildings are home to locals, not Airbnbs. You can come as a day trip, but it’s worth staying the night when the tourists leave and everything becomes very quiet.
At the top of the hill, a bit above the village, you’ll find the ruins of a 12th-century castle. It’s great to climb through and to admire the sweeping views of the Portuguese countryside.
There are a few cafes and restaurants worth trying, but a standout is Petiscos & Granitos. The traditional Portuguese food is delicious, but if you time your visit right, then you can watch the sun set over the countryside while nestled between a few giant boulders (and with a bottle of local red wine, of course).
Impressions of Monsanto
Where to stay in Monsanto?
Casa de David is a charming guest house set in a historic stone building, with beautiful, restored rooms and a small patio, which is perfect for breakfast.
Contributed by Tim | Travels Off The Cuff
9 | Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is a charming fishing village along the Atlantic coast of Europe that offers a refreshing escape from the busy resort towns nearby. Despite its postcard-perfect cliffs and golden beaches, Carvoeiro has retained its relaxed pace and authentic character, making it one of the country’s lesser-known coastal gems off the beaten path in Portugal.
Visitors will find a welcoming community where life still centers around the sea. Wandering through the cobbled streets of the small and compact village reveals whitewashed houses with colorful trim, local markets, and family-run restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. At sunset, locals gather at the small square near the beach, where live performances fill the warm evening air nearly every evening.
For those looking for nature and solitude, the cliff-top boardwalk brings stunning views of the Atlantic, winding past sea caves and coves. A visit to the nearby Algar Seco rock formations brings wanderers to views of natural pools and picturesque limestone arches. Beyond the coast, the surrounding hills are dotted with small farms and vineyards that are perfect for leisurely drives and authentic experiences.
Far from the crowds but rich in atmosphere, Carvoeiro is a great hidden gem in Portugal invites travelers to experience the Algarve at its most genuine.
Impressions of Carvoeiro
Where to stay in Carvoeiro?
An excellent place to stay is Quinta do Rosal, a locally owned retreat in the hills just outside the village. With cute villas and a peaceful garden, it offers a restful base for discovering Carvoeiro and its surroundings.
Contributed by Liz | Suitcase And Sunglasses
10 | Alvito
When you arrive at the main square in Alvito, you’re almost instantly welcomed into the culture of the town. With a population of only 2,000, this town in the Alentejo region is a slow-paced travel destination, perfect for relaxation and soaking in the local culture off the beaten path in Portugal.
Yes, there is a beautiful church here, the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assuncao, however, there is no large tourist attraction. Instead, it’s about wandering the streets to take in the architecture and spot the Manueline arches framing doors of the beautifully white-washed houses. Food is another draw, where you can stop into a local café like O Buraco Da Zorra, for an array of local dishes, in an authentic no no-frills atmosphere.
On a warm night, you’ll want to head to the Jardim da Praca da Republica, the main square in town, to grab a drink at the kiosk. If there’s a big game on (football), they’ll carry a TV outside, and find a plastic stand to place it, with extension cords making the rigging possible. While this is a basic spot, with plastic tables and chairs, you’ll quickly start to feel a part of the local culture as your neighbors and the barman chat with you – exactly what makes this hidden gem in Portugal so special.
Impressions of Alvito
Where to stay in Alvito?
One of the best parts of visiting is staying at the Pousada Castelo de Alvito. Pousadas are 4-star hotels in historic buildings- think palaces, monasteries, and castles- that help preserve the local heritage. Pousadas are often located in medieval villages like the ones in Obidos. The Alvito pousada is within a medieval castle, built in the late 1400s, with a mix of Islamic, Gothic, and Manueline architectural influences.
The hallways feel like you could be in any modern hotel. However, once you enter the spacious rooms, it’s like stepping into a castle tower. High ceilings, stone alcoves, and toile tapestries accent the king-size beds and arched windows. Some rooms have views over the town square, making for great people-watching, while others overlook the gardens where a refreshing pool sits. The castle also has a reading room, a pool table, and a glass-fronted restaurant with a view over the inner castle courtyards – perfect for enjoying a glass of port as a nightcap.
Contributed by Chris | Spritzience.com
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Did you enjoy these hidden gems in Portugal? Let me know if you have any tips for the mentioned places or any suggestion for another hidden gem off the beaten path in Portugal. Just leave a comment below!
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