The Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Portugal

As Portugal becomes more of a popular travel destination, Setúbal loses a bit of its secret status, yet it is still among one of the country’s best, hidden gems. Sitting snugly in a cradle between the Sado Estuary and the Arrábida mountains, it is perfectly positioned to offer honeymooners a range of experiences from hiking the cliffside paths to swimming in turquoise waters and enjoying a romantic candlelit seafood dinner for two. It’s also where you will catch the ferry to visit the Troia Penninsula, another beautiful spot that’s usually missed by tourists.

Beautiful beaches near Setúbal: Galapinhos Beach, Portinho da Arrábida, Galápos Beach

Setúbal, Portugal

Speaking of views, few cities in the world have as many jaw-dropping sights as Sintra, Portugal, located less than an hour travel from Lisbon. This romantic city is covered in palaces and castles, after all, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also beautiful beaches nearby and charming towns, such as Azenhas do Mar, perfect for whiling away the day. Walk through the green paradise of the Sintra Mountains, which may as well have burst from the same fairy tale as the Pena Palace, share the local sweet called travesseiro from the Casa Piriquita, and explore the restaurants lining the cobblestone streets.

Points of interest: Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, Guincho Beach

Sintra, Portugal

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the capital, and Lisbon offers much to its visitors. Charming Alfama is where couples can duck into quaint restaurants where they will find traditional cuisine and hear soulful fado, while Bairro Alto and Principe Real are the neighborhoods to spend the night with strong drinks and lively music. There is plenty of sightseeing to do and many spas to relax at afterward. Book a boat ride on the Tagus River or sit at a miradouro and watch a sunset.

Most romantic miradouros: Miradouro da Graça, Largo das Portas do Sol, Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Lisbon, Portugal

Porto is Lisbon’s northern, older sister, and despite their few similarities (both are located along a river, and both are covered in hills), these cities are as different as night and day. Where Lisbon is bright and sunny, Porto has a grayer and more mysterious aura that invites couples to snuggle closer. Some people even say that the cuisine is some of the best in the country, and it’s home to the world-renowned Port wine. In general, wine tastings are just one activity honeymooners can enjoy in Porto, and many cellars (some dating back hundreds of years) sit in the city and nearby Vila Nova de Gaia.

Must-visit wine cellars: Graham’s Port Lodge, Sandeman

Porto, Portugal