Portugal is full of charming places, perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape. From historic cities and picturesque villages to golden beaches and lush islands, there’s always a beautiful backdrop for creating unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a more extended trip, Portugal offers a mix of romance, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences. From strolls through medieval streets to relaxing dips in natural hot springs, every destination has its own special charm.
In this article, we’ve put together 10 romantic destinations in Portugal—from the mainland to the islands—to help you choose where to go on your next trip for two.
10 Romantic Destinations in Portugal for Couples
#1 Sintra
Sintra is one of Portugal’s most enchanting destinations and a perfect choice for a couple’s getaway. Its colorful palaces, narrow streets, and dreamy gardens create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that blends history, nature, and breathtaking views.
Together, you can explore the historic center, visit Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, or wander through the mystical gardens and tunnels of Quinta da Regaleira. A visit to Cabo da Roca at the end of the day offers an unforgettable sunset—an ideal moment to capture a few special memories.
Romantic place to stay:
- Valverde Palácio de Seteais – A charming historic palace hotel with elegant rooms and mountain views. Perfect for couples who want to experience the romantic heart of Sintra. Book here.
Extra tips:
- Don’t leave without trying Sintra’s famous travesseiros and queijadas.
- It’s well worth visiting outside the peak season to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful, romantic atmosphere.
If you want to make the most of your time in Sintra, check out our complete Sintra guide.
#2 Óbidos
Óbidos is a walled town that seems frozen in time, making it perfect for a couple’s getaway. Its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses with colorful details, and historic charm make every stroll feel romantic.
As a couple, you can walk along the medieval walls, visit the Church of Santa Maria, try the famous Óbidos ginjinha, and wander leisurely through the narrow streets. If you visit in spring, don’t miss the International Chocolate Festival—a fun event that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Romantic place to stay:
- Pousada Castelo de Óbidos – Located inside the walls, with comfortable rooms and views over the town and castle. Ideal for couples who want to sleep surrounded by history. Book here.
Extra tips:
- Visiting outside the busiest tourist months helps you enjoy the town in a more relaxed way.
- Don’t miss walking along the walls at sunset for a panoramic view perfect for photos.
#3 Douro Wine Region
The Douro is one of Portugal’s most romantic destinations, with its terraced vineyards, stunning landscapes, and slow-paced lifestyle. It’s the perfect setting to relax as a couple, enjoy nature, and savor a good wine with a river view.
A Douro River cruise is one of the most romantic experiences you can have, whether it’s a short sunset trip or a full-day journey. It’s also worth visiting local estates and wineries, tasting Port and DOC Douro wines, and stopping at Foz do Tua or Pinhão, two of the region’s most charming villages.
Romantic place to stay:
- Six Senses Douro Valley – One of the most beautiful and exclusive hotels in the region, surrounded by vineyards and featuring a luxury spa. Perfect for couples seeking comfort and tranquility in a sophisticated setting.
Extra tips:
- The best time to visit is during harvest season (September), when the landscapes turn golden and there are plenty of wine-related experiences. But the Douro is romantic all year round!
- Renting a car makes it easy to explore the region at your own pace, stopping at viewpoints and small villages along the river; however, it’s also possible to visit the Douro by train.
#4 Monsaraz
Monsaraz is one of the most charming and photogenic villages in the Alentejo. Surrounded by walls and overlooking the Alqueva Lake, it blends history, scenery, and a serene atmosphere—perfect for a couples’ getaway. Its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses create a postcard-perfect setting.
Strolling hand in hand through the narrow streets, watching the sunset over the lake, and dining in a restaurant with a view are unmissable experiences. It’s also worth exploring the castle, visiting the Alqueva Observatory to stargaze, or taking a boat or kayak ride on the lake.
Romantic place to stay:
- São Lourenço do Barrocal – A luxurious rural retreat set on a historic estate among olive groves and vineyards. Combining authentic Alentejo charm with comfort and elegance, it’s ideal for relaxing as a couple. Book your stay!
Extra tips:
- Monsaraz can easily be visited from Évora on a day trip or included in a broader tour of the Alqueva region.
- The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when temperatures are milder.
- Monsaraz is also close to several amazing wine producing estates, so it a great oportunity to try the amazing Alentejo wines.
#5 Gerês
Peneda-Gerês National Park is one of Portugal’s most romantic and natural destinations. With mountains, waterfalls, and crystal-clear lagoons, it’s perfect for couples who love nature, adventure, and tranquility. Here, silence and scenery are part of the experience.
There’s plenty to do: hiking the trails, swimming in the lagoons, boat or kayak trips, and relaxing in the Gerês thermal baths. It’s also worth exploring traditional villages like Fafião or Soajo and tasting the local cuisine.
Romantic place to stay:
- Agrinho Suites & Spa Gerês – A modern retreat with views over Caniçada Lake. It offers elegant suites, a spa, indoor pool, and a stunning natural setting—ideal for couples seeking comfort and privacy in the heart of the mountains.
Extra tips:
- Avoid summer if you want more peace—spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying Gerês with fewer tourists and greener landscapes.
- Peneda-Gerês is amazing for nature lovers.
#6 São Miguel (Azores)
São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, is a quintessential romantic destination. With stunning lagoons, lush gardens, and unique volcanic landscapes, it’s perfect for couples looking for nature, tranquility, and distinctive experiences.
As a couple, you can stroll around Sete Cidades Lagoon, explore Lagoa do Fogo, relax in the Furnas hot springs and Caldeira Velha baths, or visit the island’s gardens and viewpoints. Tasting the Furnas stew and local cheeses is also a special experience for couples.
Romantic place to stay:
- Terra Nostra Garden Hotel – Located within Terra Nostra Park, offering direct access to the famous botanical garden and thermal pool. Perfect for couples who want to relax and enjoy a unique experience surrounded by nature.
Extra tips:
- Renting a car is essential to visit the island’s main sights. Spring and summer are the best seasons for outdoor activities and enjoying the island’s mild climate.
- For even more special moments, catch the sunrise at Boca do Inferno or Sete Cidades—views that stay with you forever.
- Try the local aromatic plants and teas in the island’s tea gardens—a relaxing and romantic experience.
Check out our complete São Miguel guide here.
#7 Aveiro
Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” is a romantic destination thanks to its canals, colorful boats (moliceiros), and Art Nouveau architecture. It’s perfect for couples who enjoy leisurely walks, photography, and light cultural experiences.
As a couple, you can take a moliceiro boat ride through the canals, explore the streets with quaint shops and cafés, visit the Fish Market, and try the famous ovos moles. Riding a bike is another fun way to discover the city and find its less touristy corners.
Romantic place to stay:
- Hotel Moliceiro – A charming hotel in the heart of Aveiro with elegant rooms and modern décor, ideal for couples who want to explore the city on foot while enjoying comfort and style.
Extra tips:
- Renting a bike or taking a moliceiro ride in the late afternoon is a great way to experience the city at a relaxed, romantic pace.
- Also visit Costa Nova, with its colorful striped houses, perfect for photos together.
- Don’t miss the city’s traditional sweets, like ovos moles. For delicious typical pastries, we recommend Peixinho Confectionery.
Check out our complete Aveiro guide.
#8 Serra da Estrela
Serra da Estrela is a quintessential romantic destination for couples who love mountains, nature, and breathtaking landscapes, especially in winter. But with green valleys, glacial lakes, and historic villages, it’s ideal for a couple’s getaway any time of year.
Here you can hike the trails, visit the Torre (the highest point in mainland Portugal), explore historic villages like Linhares da Beira or Belmonte, and taste the famous Serra cheese. In winter, the mountains also offer skiing or simply admiring the snow-covered scenery.
Romantic place to stay:
- Casa das Penhas Douradas – A charming hotel with traditional architecture and elegant interiors, located on the mountain slopes. Ideal for relaxing as a couple with comfort and stunning views.
Extra tips:
- Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying the trails and lakes in full splendor.
- In winter, the snow transforms the mountains into a perfect backdrop for photos and romantic moments.
- Try local dishes like roasted kid and carqueja rice at a traditional regional restaurant.
Check out our complete Serra da Estrela guide.
#9 Cacela Velha
Cacela Velha is a small historic village in the Algarve, perfect for couples seeking tranquility, incredible views, and the typical charm of southern Portugal. With narrow streets, white houses, and the Atlantic in sight, it’s a romantic destination that seems frozen in time.
You can stroll through the historic center, explore the ancient walls and Cacela church, and watch a stunning sunset over Ria Formosa—an ideal moment for photos and memories together. It’s also worth taking short walks to the village’s secluded beach and enjoying the local cuisine, with fresh fish and seafood.
Romantic place to stay:
- The Prime Energize Hotel & Spa – Located in Vila Real de Santo António, just a short drive from Cacela Velha, this 4-star hotel offers a full-service spa, outdoor pool, buffet breakfast, and international cuisine. Perfect for couples seeking comfort, relaxation, and a beachfront escape.
Extra tips:
- Visiting outside the peak season helps you enjoy the village and beach more privately.
- A boat trip on Ria Formosa is a must to appreciate the landscape and local wildlife.
- Trying fresh fish and seafood dishes at a local restaurant is almost obligatory to complete the romantic experience.
#10 Madeira
Last but not least, the “Pearl of the Atlantic” is undoubtedly one of Portugal’s most romantic destinations. Its lush landscapes, flower-filled gardens, levadas, and breathtaking viewpoints are perfect for couples wanting to combine nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Together, you can stroll through the Monte Palace gardens, explore the island’s levadas, climb to Cabo Girão for impressive panoramic views, and visit Ponta de São Lourenço. Don’t miss tasting Madeira wine and poncha at one of the island’s many bars.
Romantic place to stay:
- Hotel Porto Mare – PortoBay – Part of the Vila Porto Mare resort, located in Funchal’s Lido area. With 5 pools, tropical gardens, restaurants, and a full-service spa, it offers comfort, luxury, and a perfect seaside location for couples.
Extra tips:
- For even more special moments, watch the sunset from Cabo Girão viewpoint or spot dolphins on a boat trip.
- Madeiran cuisine is unique and different from mainland Portugal. Take the chance to try typical dishes such as espetada, bolo do caco, and black scabbardfish.
- Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens and hikes, though they are also the busiest seasons.
Check out our complete Madeira guide.
Portugal has romantic destinations for every taste, from historic villages and coastal cities to islands and mountains. Each place offers unique experiences, whether strolling, exploring nature, or relaxing in a charming hotel.
Planning your trip at your own pace and savoring moments together makes all the difference. Choose the destination that inspires you most and start planning your next romantic getaway in Portugal!
*Cover photo by zm_photo via Depositphotos
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