Lisbon
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Tram 28 and Alfama | An old yellow tram climbing between the lanes of Alfama and its views over the river. | Central Lisbon |
| Belém Tower | A stone tower on the Tagus from the age of discovery, on the World Heritage list. | Belém, west Lisbon |
| São Jorge Castle | A castle on Lisbon's highest hill, with views over the whole city. | Alfama |
| The Lisbon Oceanarium | One of the largest aquariums in Europe, a joy for children. | Parque das Nações |
Sintra and the coast
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Pena Palace | A colourful palace on a forested hilltop, like something from a children's story, on the World Heritage list. | Sintra, about 40 minutes from Lisbon |
| Quinta da Regaleira | Mysterious gardens with a spiral well, tunnels and ponds. | Sintra |
| Cabo da Roca | The westernmost point of mainland Europe, with towering cliffs above the ocean. | Near Sintra |
Porto
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Ribeira district | Colourful houses stepping up the bank of the Douro, on the World Heritage list. | Central Porto |
| The Dom Luís I Bridge | A two-level iron bridge with superb views of the city and the river. | Porto |
The Algarve
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Benagil cave | A sea cave with an opening in its roof that lets the sun onto a small beach. | By licensed boat or guided kayak only; landing on its beach is banned |
| Ponta da Piedade | Golden cliffs and rocks above turquoise water. | Lagos |
| Marinha beach | One of Europe's most beautiful beaches, between golden rocks. | Near Benagil |
Tips before you go
- You need a Schengen visa, applied for at Portugal's consulate if it is your main destination.
- The best time is April to October; the Algarve is at its best in summer.
- Book Pena Palace in advance: entry is timed and crowds are big in season.
Hotels in Portugal
Visa
- Portugal visa for Saudis: Schengen step by step
- Schengen visa for Saudis: requirements, fees and steps
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Portugal?
The Lisbon tram and Alfama, Belém Tower, the Lisbon Oceanarium, Pena Palace in Sintra, the Ribeira district in Porto, and Benagil cave and the Algarve beaches.
Can you go inside Benagil cave?
Only on licensed boat tours or guided kayak tours; swimming in and landing on its beach are both banned.
Do Saudis need a visa for Portugal?
Yes, a Schengen visa.
Planning your trip to Portugal? Read Travel to Portugal from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.