Regions of Portugal

Portugal’s 7 regions main features

Map of the regions and districts of Portugal

Portugal is composed of seven distinct regions, each showcasing its own unique characteristics and attractions.

Portugal mainland regions, districts & main cities

Table with the regions of Portugal, their respective districts, and the largest, second-largest, third-largest, and fourth-largest cities in each district:

North Region

The North Region of Portugal, known as Norte, features Porto, known for Port wine, the mountainous Peneda-Gerês National Park, the terraced vineyards of the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, and a robust industrial sector including textiles, footwear, and manufacturing. Norte districts are Viana do Castelo, Braga, Vila Real, Bragança, and Porto.

Centro Region

The Centro region is known for the city of Coimbra, with its historic university designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal. Aveiro, referred to as the ‘Venice of Portugal’, Nazaré, renowned for its giant waves. Center inland, the site of Fátima is one of Portugal’s main attraction. Centro districts are Aveiro, Viseu, Guarda, Coimbra, Castelo Branco, and Leiria

Lisbon Metropolitan Region

The Lisbon and Tagus Valley region, centered around Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, is known for its rich history, cultural significance, and economic importance. The region features the Tagus River estuary, which has historically been a hub for maritime activities and trade. Lisbon itself offers a mix of traditional architecture, contemporary culture, and vibrant nightlife. The region also encompasses towns like Sintra and Cascais. Lisbon districts are Lisbon and Setúbal.

Alentejo Region

The Alentejo region is known for its expansive agricultural landscapes, low population density, significant wine production, historical towns, and traditional cork oak forests. It is one of the largest regions in Portugal, covering a third of the country, and is recognized for its cultural heritage, with numerous castles and Roman ruins, as well as its slow-paced lifestyle and distinctive cuisine. Alentejo districts are Portalegre, Évora, and Beja

Algarve, Portugal South Region

The Algarve region is the southernmost part of Portugal and is known for its Mediterranean beaches, golf resorts, and tourism-oriented services. The region’s mild climate, attractive coastline, and abundant sunshine make it a favorite destination for vacationers.

The Algarve region is the southernmost part of Portugal, famous for its luxury resorts, the marinas, the Ria Formosa, the 37 golf courses, the Sagres fortress, 133 sunny beaches, and lively summer nightlife. The Algarve consists of the single district of Faro.

Portugal includes two autonomous regions, Madeira and the Azores, which are groups of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean.

Azores Autonomous Region

The Azores Autonomous Region is an archipelago situated in the North Atlantic Ocean. The Azores are known for their dramatic landscapes, which include rugged cliffs, green pastures, and crater lakes. The islands are also recognized for their rich marine life, opportunities for whale watching, hot springs, and outdoor activities like hiking and diving. The Azores also noted for its dairy products, particularly cheese, and for its pineapple plantations. Azores region is made up of nine volcanic islands, divided into three groups: Eastern (São Miguel and Santa Maria), Central (Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, and Faial), and Western (Flores and Corvo).

Madeira Autonomous Region

The Madeira Autonomous Region is an archipelago distinguished by its rugged landscape and a network of levadas, which are irrigation channels designed to distribute water throughout the island’s agricultural areas. The region is characterized by its subtropical climate, verdant gardens, the renowned Madeira wine, and the colorful annual Madeira Flower Festival. The Madeira region comprises two inhabited main islands, Madeira and Porto Santo, and two groups of uninhabited islands, the Desertas and Selvagens.