Skip Lisbon: 5 Underrated Cities in Portugal Locals Love (But Tourists Ignore)

At this point, you probably know how popular Portugal is as a country to visit in Europe. But are there still underrated cities in Portugal that can let you see what’s beyond the tourist circuit? This is what we’ll tell you more about in this guide.

Portugal is one of our favorite countries to visit in Europe and with its proximity to Spain, its very easy to go to Portugal even driving by car!

From the serene heights of Marvão to the tranquil streets of Tavira, the lush expanses of Peneda-Gerês National Park, the unique boulder-built village of Monsanto, and the culturally rich Miranda do Douro, this guide is your gateway to discovering the real Portugal that many visitors often miss.

Let’s dive in!

Additional Reads:
– Looking To live in Portugal? How To Get A Residence Visa In Portugal
– Why Everyone’s Packing Up and Moving to Portugal
– Living in Spain vs Portugal: Which is Better?
– Daily Budget For Portugal: 10 Top Money-Saving Tips For Portugal

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Quick Easy Tips for Visiting These Cities

Travel Off-Season – These underrated gems are even better in spring or fall, when crowds are smaller and prices lower.

Rent a Car – Public transportation can be limited in smaller towns. Having a car gives you full flexibility.

Stay at Local Guesthouses – Skip international hotel chains and support family-run stays for a more authentic experience.

Learn Basic Portuguese Phrases – In lesser-known cities, English is less common. A few polite words go a long way.

Taste Regional Specialties – Each city has its own culinary tradition. Don’t assume all Portuguese food is the same.

Portugal’s tourism boom has made Lisbon and Porto feel increasingly commercial, expensive, and overrun. While influencers highlight pastel de nata and colorful trams, they often skip the quieter, culturally rich cities where real Portuguese life unfolds. Locals in places like Viseu, Évora, and Guarda often express frustration with being overshadowed by the same tourist trail again and again.

Another rarely discussed truth? Many tourists don’t explore beyond the coast. Inland cities with fascinating history, architecture, and cuisine are largely ignored—yet they’re where the real Portugal lives. Why? Because they’re not trending on Instagram. The travel industry sells Portugal as a postcard, not as a lived-in, layered destination.

Some travelers even claim the real Portuguese hospitality is easier to find outside the major tourist zones. Fewer crowds, more connection. But admitting that might upend the influencer-dominated narrative that Lisbon is the be-all-end-all of Portuguese travel.

Underrated Cities in Portugal You Need to Visit

1. Marvão

Why Visit Marvão?

Perched atop a high granite cliff in the Alentejo region, Marvão offers breathtaking views and a step back in time. This beautifully preserved medieval village is encircled by fortress walls that date back to the 13th century, providing a sense of solitude and history that’s hard to find elsewhere. With its narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, Marvão feels like a hidden fortress suspended in time and space.

Getting There and Around

Marvão is best reached by car, as public transport options are limited. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Lisbon through scenic roads that wind through the Alentejo countryside. Once in the village, exploring on foot is the best way to soak in the ancient atmosphere and discover the hidden corners.

Top Attractions

Marvão Castle: Explore the ramparts and towers of this imposing castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Serra de São Mamede Natural Park.

Church of Santa Maria: A beautiful example of Gothic architecture, this church houses a small museum with local artifacts.

The Roman City of Ammaia: Just outside Marvão, visit the ruins of this ancient Roman city, which provide insight into the region’s long history.

Culinary Delights:

• Alentejo Cuisine: Savor regional specialties such as “migas” (breadcrumbs cooked with garlic, pork, and spices) and “ensopado de borrego” (lamb stew).
• Local Cheese and Wine: Try the regional “queijo de Nisa,” a semi-hard sheep’s cheese, along with a glass of robust Alentejo wine.

Cultural Insights:

• Festival Al-Mossassa: Celebrated in October, this festival commemorates the Moorish origins of Marvão with medieval reenactments, traditional music, and local crafts.
• Chestnut Festival: In November, the town celebrates the chestnut harvest with markets, folk dances, and, of course, lots of chestnuts to eat.

Tips and Tricks:

• Accommodation: Stay in one of Marvão’s charming inns or boutique hotels to fully experience the tranquil, historic setting.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the best weather and fewer tourists, making these seasons ideal for visiting.

Why It’s Underrated: Marvão’s remote location and small size keep it off the main tourist radar, but its stunning beauty, rich history, and strategic vantage point over the Alentejo plains make it a must-visit for those interested in history and natural beauty.

2. Tavira

Why Visit Tavira? Tavira, often overlooked in favor of more bustling Algarve destinations like Faro or Albufeira, boasts a unique blend of traditional architecture, ancient history, and serene beaches. This picturesque town is divided by the Gilão River and is famous for its Roman bridge, historic castle ruins, and the myriad of churches that dot its skyline.

Getting There and Around: Tavira is easily accessible by train or car from Faro, which is just 30 kilometers away. The town’s compact nature makes it perfect for exploring on foot, allowing visitors to appreciate the cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards at a leisurely pace.

Top Attractions:

Tavira Castle: The remnants of this Moorish castle offer spectacular views of the town and the sea. The surrounding gardens are a perfect spot for relaxation.

Roman Bridge: Though actually built in the 17th century, this bridge is a central feature of the town and a great place for picturesque views along the river.

Ilha de Tavira: Accessible by a short ferry ride, this island boasts some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches, away from the crowds.

Culinary Delights:

• Seafood: Being close to the coast, Tavira offers exquisite seafood dishes. Try the local octopus or the cataplana (a seafood stew).
• Pastries: Don’t miss the chance to try the Dom Rodrigos, a traditional Algarve dessert made from egg yolk and almond.

Cultural Insights:

• Camera Obscura: Housed in an old water tower, this attraction offers a 360-degree view of Tavira using the camera obscura technique.
• Fado Nights: Experience the soulful sounds of Fado music in local bars and restaurants, a profound expression of Portuguese culture.

Tips and Tricks:

• Stay Central: Choose accommodations near the historical center to easily access major sites and the river.
• Local Festivals: Check local event schedules for festivals, especially during the summer, to experience Tavira’s vibrant community life.

Why It’s Underrated: Tavira’s low-key atmosphere and cultural richness make it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic and tranquil Portuguese experience. Its historical depth, coupled with less commercial development compared to other Algarve towns, allows for a genuine connection with the region’s heritage and beauty.

3. Peneda-Gerês National Park

Why Visit Peneda-Gerês National Park? Peneda-Gerês, Portugal’s only national park, is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking solitude in the great outdoors. Spanning across the northern regions near the border with Spain, this park offers a diverse landscape of rugged hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear waterfalls. It’s a place where ancient traditions are preserved, and wildlife roams freely, making it an ideal spot for ecological and cultural exploration.

Getting There and Around: The park is most accessible from Porto, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. Due to the park’s expansive area and rural nature, having a car is essential for accessing the various hiking trails, viewpoints, and villages within the park.

Top Attractions:

• Gerês Village: Start your visit here to learn about the park’s history and pick up maps for various trails.
• Vilarinho das Furnas: Explore the submerged village visible when the reservoir levels are low and learn about the region’s cultural history in the local museum.
• Waterfalls and Lagoons: The park is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls and lagoons, such as Cascata do Arado and Tahiti Waterfall, which are perfect for refreshing swims during hikes.

Culinary Delights:

• Local Honey: The park’s diverse flora contributes to producing unique honey. Visit local producers to taste and purchase this sweet treat.
• Vinhoverde: Enjoy this light, slightly sparkling wine produced in the nearby Minho region.

Cultural Insights:

• Traditional Festivals: Engage with local culture through annual festivals such as the “Festa do Espírito Santo” where traditions dating back centuries are observed with processions and festivities.
• Granaries of Soajo and Lindoso: Visit these historic stone granaries, used for centuries by local communities to store corn and other cereals.

Tips and Tricks:

• Hiking Gear: Bring appropriate hiking boots and gear, as the park offers numerous trails ranging from easy to challenging.
• Accommodations: Consider staying in one of the park’s lodges or rural bed and breakfasts to fully experience the tranquility of the area.

Why It’s Underrated: Despite its beauty and ecological importance, Peneda-Gerês National Park remains relatively undiscovered by the international tourist crowds, offering a more intimate encounter with Portugal’s natural beauty and ancient cultural practices.

4. Monsanto

Why Visit Monsanto? Monsanto is known as “the most Portuguese village of Portugal” and has a unique charm, partly because it’s built among, and integrated with, gigantic granite boulders. The houses are tucked between these large rocks, and the streets wind narrowly around them, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that feels frozen in time.

Getting There and Around: Monsanto is located in central Portugal, and the nearest major city is Castelo Branco, about an hour’s drive away. Access is primarily by car as public transportation options are limited. The village itself is best explored on foot due to its steep and narrow streets.

Top Attractions:

• Monsanto Castle: The ruins of this ancient castle offer panoramic views over the plains and mountains surrounding the village.
• Boulder Houses: Explore unique homes that are built under and between massive granite boulders.
• Chapel of St. Michael: This historic chapel is perched at the highest point of the village, providing breathtaking views and a peaceful place to reflect.

Culinary Delights:

• Regional Cuisine: Try local dishes such as maranhos (a goat meat and rice sausage) and bogalhós (cinnamon-flavored dough balls).
• Cheese and Olive Oil: Sample some of the region’s excellent cheese and olive oil, which are staples of the local diet.

Cultural Insights:

• Festa de Santa Cruz: Celebrated in May, this festival involves traditional music, costumes, and the symbolic decoration of the houses with flowers and objects that protect against evil spirits.
• Handicrafts: Monsanto is known for its crafts, particularly woven blankets and baskets, which reflect the village’s artisanal heritage.

Tips and Tricks:

• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the village terrain is uneven and steep.
• Stay Overnight: To fully experience the tranquility and beauty of Monsanto, consider staying overnight in local accommodation, which often offers traditional architecture and hospitality.

Why It’s Underrated: Monsanto’s unique blend of ancient architecture and natural geology isn’t widely known internationally, which keeps it off the typical tourist radar. This village offers an authentic slice of Portuguese history and culture, with breathtaking landscapes and a quiet, almost mystical atmosphere.

5. Miranda do Douro

Why Visit Miranda do Douro? Situated in the northeastern tip of Portugal, bordering Spain, Miranda do Douro is a small town with a rich cultural heritage. It’s not only known for its stunning landscapes along the Douro River but also for preserving its local language, Mirandese, alongside Portuguese. The town offers a blend of cultural depth, natural beauty, and historical significance, making it a unique destination for those looking to explore a less-touristed part of Portugal.

Getting There and Around: Miranda do Douro is accessible by car from Porto, which takes about 2.5 hours. The remote location makes it less frequented by tourists, providing a more authentic experience. Exploring by car is ideal, as public transport options are sparse in this part of the country.

Top Attractions:

• Historic Center: Wander through the old town with its ancient walls and traditional architecture.
• Miranda do Douro Cathedral: Visit this impressive 16th-century cathedral, which is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
• Douro River Cruises: Take a boat tour to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Douro River gorges, which are even more dramatic here than in the more famous wine regions to the west.

Culinary Delights:

• Posta Mirandesa: Sample this renowned steak dish, made from local cattle breeds, known for its flavor and tenderness.
• Alheira de Mirandela: Try this traditional smoked sausage, originally created by Jews during the Inquisition as a way to avoid eating pork.

Cultural Insights:

• Pauliteiros de Miranda: Experience a performance of the traditional stick dance, an important cultural symbol of the region.
• Mirandese Language: Take the opportunity to hear and perhaps learn a few phrases of Mirandese, one of Portugal’s officially recognized regional languages.

Tips and Tricks:

• Visit During Festivals: Plan your visit during local festivals such as the Festas de Santa Bárbara or the Feira dos Gorazes to see Miranda do Douro at its most vibrant.
• Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for hiking and bird-watching, especially with the region being a part of the International Douro Natural Park.

Why It’s Underrated: Miranda do Douro offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical depth that is often overshadowed by more popular destinations in Portugal. Its location makes it a hidden gem for those interested in exploring diverse landscapes and deep-rooted traditions without the crowds.

With this final destination, we conclude our tour of Portugal’s hidden gems. Each location we’ve explored offers a distinct slice of Portuguese life and culture, providing enriching experiences for those willing to venture beyond the well-known paths.

Wrapping Up Portugal’s Underrated Cities You Shouldn’t Miss

As our exploration of Portugal’s less-trodden paths comes to a close, we’ve uncovered a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich traditions, and historical treasures far from the bustling tourist centers. From the fortified heights of Marvão to the tranquil riverbanks of Tavira, the verdant expanses of Peneda-Gerês National Park, the ancient boulders of Monsanto, and the cultural richness of Miranda do Douro, each destination has offered us a unique glimpse into the quieter, yet profoundly captivating, aspects of Portuguese life.

Reflecting on Our Discoveries:

• Marvão showcased its medieval allure and panoramic vistas, inviting us to step back in time.
• Tavira enchanted us with its elegant Roman architecture and serene beaches, a reminder of the Algarve’s quieter side.
• Peneda-Gerês National Park offered a sanctuary of natural beauty and a haven for wildlife, providing a stark contrast to Portugal’s urban landscapes.
• Monsanto impressed with its integration of nature and architecture, where homes are carved from and perched between massive granite rocks.
• Miranda do Douro introduced us to the enduring legacy of the Mirandese language and its vibrant cultural scene, perched on the dramatic cliffs overlooking the Douro River.

These hidden gems of Portugal provide not just a retreat from the crowded tourist spots but also a deeper connection to the country’s heritage and natural beauty. They offer serene escapes where history, culture, and landscape come together to form rich, unforgettable travel experiences.

Final Thoughts: Our travels through these less-visited corners of Portugal have shown that adventure and discovery lie beyond the well-known destinations. Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature, a deep dive into history, or a taste of local traditions, Portugal’s lesser-known regions beckon with open arms and undiscovered stories.

Thank you for joining us on this enchanting journey through Portugal’s hidden gems. May your future travels be as enriching and inspiring as our explorations have been, filled with moments of beauty and connections that last a lifetime. Wherever your next adventure takes you, may it bring you closer to the heart of the places you visit.