Wanting something quieter with fewer tourists in Portugal? We know the feeling, sometimes it’s nice to find somewhere where you can go back to simple pleasure, long walks, sightseeing and excellent food, all without having to fight your way through countless other people or waiting in endless queues. 

With it being one of the most popular countries to visit for a holiday, quiet spots are increasingly hard to come by, but luckily, we’ve got some insider secrets just for you.

 

Miramar

Not too far from fabulous Porto is the seaside village of Miramar. While its name might not ring a bell at first, you’re bound to recognise one of its most iconic features, the beautiful Capela do Senhora Pedra, an ocean-front chapel that has become the classic image associated with pretty Miramar.

Sleepy and secluded, Miramar is a great little spot of Portugal that’s gone largely unnoticed, despite its beach, Praia de Miramar, being one of the best looking in all of Portugal. 

 

Aveiro

While Aveiro is becoming a name more recognised in recent years, it’s remained a largely untouched area of Portugal. This ancient city, dubbed the Venice of Portugal is, as you would expect, a labyrinth of waterways and indeed, was a pivotal seaport at one time of day.  The old town is particularly pretty, and the city’s cathedral is also worth visiting too. Entertainment-wise there’s some great places to eat and some bars, but everything is low key and tends to draw people who enjoy a calm environment.  

 

Cascais

With a proximity to Lisbon, Cascais is often overlooked, and no bad thing for those of you looking for a holiday on the quieter side. Once a small fishing village, Cascais has grown astronomically and now is a thriving town full of a rustic charm. The daily catch is still caught in the harbour that’s littered with pretty boats, reminding you of this town’s quaint past, while elsewhere you’ll find boutique little shops, amazing restaurants as well as nifty roadside stalls selling traditional souvenirs. 

 

Burgau

Called the ‘smuggler’s village’ by the locals, little Burgau is an idyllic corner of Portugal, full of narrow little twists and turns, crooked houses and a pretty beach that offers the ultimate place to relax. It’s a perfect place for those who enjoy long trail walks and you can jaunt off to Salema that sits close by to enjoy some lunch at a beach bar as a reward too! This one’s truly low-key and a real gem to stumble across if you’re after something that’s off the beaten path. 

 

Ferragudo

Ferragudo is a little fishing village which hasn’t changed much and manages to retain its roots, with cute cobbled streets to trot along and cafes and restaurants to be found along the way. If you head off to the fishing pier, you’ll be able to watch the daily catch being brought in, or you could perhaps set off uphill and instead visit the traditional church.  It’s also yet another wonderful location for those of you who enjoy beachfront walks and there’s also plenty of opportunity to get adventurous and make a splash with some water activities too.  

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