Ever visited a travel destination for a few days but realized that your time there wasn’t enough because there was so much to see?
It happened to me when I went to the Algarve. I loved it so much and realized I wanted to spend more time exploring more areas so I went back again within a year.
Yes, Portugal’s Algarve is one of those regions that is worth visiting at least twice because there’s so much to see and it is all good.
Somewhere on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, Algarve
What makes Portugal’s Algarve region really special are the rock formations. They not only add a stunning background to the beaches but also offer multiple hikes and viewpoint possibilities.
My first time in the Algarve was in Lagos and I did the Ponta da Piedade hike every single day to see the sunset. As a result, I found many different viewpoints and spots.
It was during that trip that I discovered the Seven Haning Valleys hike route because I could see people up on the viewpoints and on a trail while I was kayaking to the Benagil Cave.
So yes, I went back to the Algarve just to stay at an amazingly cute fishing village that I saw from the boat – Carvoeiro. That’s where the hike starts!
I went a step further, and stayed at a hotel from where this trail actually starts – Rocha Brava Village Resort.
Introducing the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Table of Contents
The Seven Hanging Valleys trail is a scenic hike in Portugal’s Algarve that goes on for 5.7 km. The hike goes along the coast on the rocks.
This trail goes up and down and one can see many beaches from up above. Not only the beaches but one can also see the holes – or “Algares“.
Sunset time on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
This walk goes on an almost unbroken line of cliffs, interrupted only by water courses. Historically each hanging valley was associated with a rivermouth flowing into the sea from above. Most of these watercourses flow into the sea from above, creating “hanging valleys”, hence the name.
Each hanging valley shows the effects of erosion that have taken place along the coastline over the last million years. As a result, the cliffs are unique and a predominant feature of this landscape.
There are caves and many algares (or holes) and birds live in many of them, especially bats.
The world-famous Marinha Beach comes at the end of this trail (or the start depending on your direction). It is possible to go down to many of the beaches take a break and then go back up on the trail.
The Seven Hanging Valleys trail also goes on top of the famous Benagil Cave. This cave has a hole on the top of the rocks and the trail will take you there.
Quick Facts about the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Seven Hanging Valleys Hike in Algarve itinerary
Here are some numbers and figures about the Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail:
Length of the entire trail: 5.7 KM (so a round trip is 11.4 KM).
Average Duration for the trail: 3 hours one way and 6 hours in total. You can definitely do it faster if you don’t take breaks to click pictures.
Difficulty Level: Medium, only because it can get slippery on some paths. Also, the hiking path isn’t a proper boardwalk, unlike the Ponta da Piedade hike of Lagos (Lagos is also in the Algarve).
Maximum Height: 45,50 meters for the rocks above Praia do Vale de Centeanes.
Minimum Height: 7,50 meters at Benagil Beach.
Recommended seasons: Spring, Summer, and Autumn. (The official website doesn’t mention summer but I did this in summer and it is doable).
I will share tips for doing this hike in an easier and more fun way at one of the later points.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Start Point
Carvoeiro – Vale de Centeanes beach
The starting point for the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is Praia do Vale de Centeanes in Carvoeiro. This beach is close to Rocha Brava Village Resort.
Vale de Centeanes is the best beach in Carvoeiro because it has amazing rock formations. Also, the main beach – Praia do Carvoeiro is busy but Praia do Vale de Centeanes isn’t.
Yes, the trail starts from Praia do Vale de Centeanes but a part of it goes through Rocha Brava Village Resort before the lighthouse.
You can’t start the hike from the beach itself, because you have to climb down to go to the beach and then climb up to go on the path. So, leave a beach day for another day, instead go to “Miradouro do Vale Suspenso” or “Miradouro Vale Centeanes” or just near the lighthouse Farol de Alfanzina to start your hike.
Somewhere here also is a place marked on Google as “the best lunch bench in Algarve”. Note that some parts are fenced off because they belong to Rocha Brava Village Resort, so it can get confusing here.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail End Point
The famous Marinha beach in Portugal – Algarve itinerary
The Seven Hanging Valleys trail ends at Praia da Marinha, but you can actually go on top and walk a little further because the beach right after Praia da Marinha looks insanely beautiful from the top.
If you notice on the above rocks, there are many viewpoint possibilities and there are so many kinds of different views that one can enjoy from the top on all sides.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map
Here’s a map that I made of the Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail using Google Maps. I have a habit of making things on Google Maps before I visit a destination so that I don’t miss out on things that I really want to do.
If you look for a “walking map” from point A to B, it will give you a slightly different map from what I have made up above.
Here’s a picture that I clicked at the end point of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail at Marinha Beach with information about every spot on the way
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Map
I found the above map to be really useful because it mentions scenic spots but of course, it mentions very few of them and there’s a lot more.
Notable Viewpoints along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail from Start to End
You will want to save this post because I am now going to mention the viewpoints of the hike from the starting point till the end.
The viewpoints get better towards the end. The best part of this hike is from Benagil Beach to Marinha Beach.
1) Miradouro Vale Centeanes
Miradouro Vale Centeanes – view of Vale Centeanes beach
This viewpoint overlooks the Praia do Vale de Centeanes (translation is the beach of the valley of Centeanes). The Seven Hanging Valleys hike starts from here so this is actually the first viewpoint that you will see on this hike.
Miradouro Vale Centeanes on Seven Hanging Valleys trail, the Algarve
The walking trail that starts from here isn’t a proper boardwalk but is a narrow path leading through the bushes on top of the rock.
We also saw a bunch of fruiting prickly pear cactuses here or Opuntia here.
For me, the Vale Centeanes beach was lovely to visit because it was like a mini version of the more famous Marinha beach in terms of the rock formations, water clarity, and sand.
2) Best Lunch Bench in Algarve
Best lunch bench in Algarve, Carvoeiro, Portugal
This is something we found on Google Maps and we realized that to arrive here one has to get inside the resort that was along the hike, and we later realized that was the resort where we were staying – Rocha Brava Village Resort.
We were able to reach this spot because we had the access key to enter the boundary since we were the guests of the resort. If you can’t then you don’t need to make an effort because there are definitely more viewpoints up ahead and some are more interesting.
3) Alfanzina Lighthouse & Around
Cave near Alfanzina Lighthouse, Carvoeiro
We reached the Alfanzina Lighthouse at sunset time and the area around looked very good. There are multiple viewpoints and possibilities as you explore the area around it.
Alfanzina Lighthouse, Carvoeiro on Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
There is also a cave that you see from up above, Gruta do Farol de Alfanzina – but we were just two girls here and it was going to get dark. We of course didn’t want to go inside a cave at that moment.
Alfanzina Lighthouse in Carvoeiro
We also saw some locals who were sitting on top of the rocks near the lighthouse to watch the sunset. Apart from them, there was not even a single person around, and definitely not on the trail.
In comparison, the other lighthouse on the Ponta da Piedade hiking trail that I saw was full of people because that’s a famous viewpoint. That’s also in the Algarve but that spot overlooks the sunset directly so I guess it is more popular for sunset photos.
There is also supposed to be a “Paradise Cave” near Alfanzina Lighthouse. We didn’t have the time to try to find it but if you do, please tell me about it.
4) Praia do Vale Espinhaço Viewpoint
Sunset Hike – Seven Hanging Valleys in Carvoeiro
This is a super tiny beach and there are steps that go to it. My friend and I were here at sunset time so we didn’t want to go down to the beach because it was just about to get dark. Instead, we found a nice viewpoint to spend some amazing moments.
Praia do Vale Espinhaço Viewpoint on Seven Hanging Valleys trail
If you see the above photo, the way to the beach goes from the left side of the rock that we are sitting on.
I highly recommend this spot for stunning sunset photos. I actually haven’t seen even a single photo of this spot on Instagram till now, which is a very good thing.
5) Floating Rock
Floating Rock Seven Hanging Valleys Hike in the Algarve
Floating rock is a tall cliff that has been eroded from all sides and as a result, appears to be a floating piece of rock. There is a beach right behind the floating rock and it was empty at the time of our visit.
All these spots aren’t marked on the Seven Hanging Valleys trek. This is why I say that the Ponta da Piedade hike is better marked because all the viewpoints have gazebos and an information board.
6) Benagil Beach and Cave
The empty Benagil Cave beach in the morning
Benagil Beach and Cave is where you should take a pause, rent a kayak or a SUP, and go inside the cave. A better part of doing this hike would be to split it. Do the Benagil cave kayaking in the morning and after that hike from Benagil to Marinha to do half of the Seven Hanging Valleys hike.
Inside Benagil Cave – June 2023
As mentioned before, I visited the Benagil Cave twice – once in the afternoon on a kayak and then in the morning on an SUP. The cave gets very full in the afternoon, so try your best to do this first thing in the morning.
If you want to see the cave (which you totally should), then check out the below tours that I have handpicked for you:
Benagil Kayak Rental: If you have enough kayaking experience, then you can rent the kayak and do it yourself. But be careful of the rocks at the entry of the cave.
Benagil Cave Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP): For me entering the Benagil Cave on a paddleboard was a lot of fun. Try it. It isn’t easy to stand on the SUP because of the waves but was still fun.
Benagil Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayaking: It is different from the others because it has super early or late start times so that you can avoid crowds. This also costs EUR 35 per person and starts from Benagil Beach.
Algarve: Benagil Caves Guided Kayaking Tour: This is pretty similar to the first one on this list and costs the same – EUR 35. But they have 5 different time slots so that you can start super early or late to avoid crowds. It also leaves from Benagil Beach.
If you are an experienced kayaker, then you may not need a tour and can do this on your own. But remember there is a right way to enter the cave and a wrong way.
Because I was always with a guide – even when we did a private SUP tour with just two people, I had professionals telling me which side of the cave to enter from. There was a Spanish couple who were entering it from the wrong side and spent a long time fighting the waves because they kept getting pushed towards the rocks. Ouch!
Hole on top of the Benagil Cave
The Seven Valleys hike doesn’t take you inside the Benagil cave but it goes next to a hole on top of the Benagil Cave. So you have to get off the path at Benagil Beach and rent a kayak from there to go to the cave.
View of the Benagil Village
Benagil Beach is tiny, but pretty. Sadly it was full of seaweed so wasn’t fun to walk on it. Note that I’m talking about the “Benagil Cave” beach but the main Benagil Beach.
Benagil Beach – the main beach of Benagil Village
So unless you are going to the beach to rent kayaks or SUPs, there is no other reason to go to Benagil Beach because it isn’t really worth it. If you are doing the cave on another day then stay on the Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail and don’t make a stop on this beach.
7) Praia do Carvalho
Praia do Carvalho on Seven Hanging Valleys hike
There are two beaches marked as Praia do Carvalho as per Google Maps. One comes before Benagil and one comes after. This is the one that was after crossing the Benagil beach.
This is one of the beaches that I would have liked to go down to. But of course, I picked a few of them because if I went down on every single beach then the hike would have taken forever.
If you see the above photo of the beach, the seaweed has taken over the entire beach. That’s sadly the problem with some of Algarve’s smaller beaches and I also noticed it on a tiny yet lovely Praia do Pinhão, in Lagos which was sadly full of seaweed.
8) Cão Raivoso Beach, Cave and Viewpoint
Cave near Cão Raivoso – Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in the Algarve
I don’t know exactly the name of this cave but I’m using the name of the nearby beaches. As mentioned before, there are many holes in the rocks around this area and as a result lots of caves.
The time that I visited Benagil Cave, we visited a few other caves after Benagil but I didn’t write the names down. I specifically remember one cave that was called the Dark Cave.
Cão Raivoso Beach Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
The above picture was clicked right after the hole in the rock from where you can see the cave. If you miss this spot, don’t fret because there are lots of holes in the rocks all around. They are called algares in Portuguese.
9) Heart Shaped Rock / Elephant Rock Viewpoint
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail hike – Algarve, Portugal
So lately pictures of a heart-shaped rock formation on the Seven Hanging Valleys trail have been taking social media by storm. There isn’t actually a heart-shaped rock but three rocks that give an illusion of a heart-shaped gap.
Elephant Rock on Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
This illusion is actually formed by the “Elephant Rock” which I saw a year back while kayaking to Benagil Cave. I also kayaked under the arches of the Elephant Rock in 2022 and I did the same round on SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) in 2023.
SUP and Kayaking near Marinha Beach and to Benagil Cave
Wondering where to find it? Read on.
No matter which kayaking or SUP tour you do to reach the Benagil Cave, most likely they will take you here because that’s the typical route.
How to find the Heart Shaped Rock Viewpoint on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?
Spot for the evening near the Elephant Rock viewpoint – setes vales suspensos
In order to find the heart-shaped hole in the rock viewpoint, you need to first find the Elephant Rock, or “Rocha do Elefante”. It is right before the Arco Natural and the Marinha Beach viewpoint.
This spot comes right before you reach Marinha Beach. So, in case you missed it, you literally have to walk from the Marinha Beach Parking to the viewpoint that’s before the beach and overlooks it.
You will see a path that’s fenced off and at the corner where the Elephant Rock is visible, you have to go under the fence and a few steps till it appears that the rocks in front are forming a heart with the elephant rock. The above picture where I am sitting is close to it.
Double Sea Arch at Sete Vales Suspensos OR the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, Algarve
So many people miss this spot that it’s unbelievable! As my friend and I stood there, we saw so many people who clicked a picture of the other viewpoint and didn’t even notice the heart.
So, I really hope you find my website before you do the hike so that you can find this heart shape and click the most amazing pictures.
We liked this spot so much that we went back the same day to see the sunset here.
10) Viewpoint of Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha viewpoint
There isn’t one but many viewpoints of Marinha Beach. The most famous one is what comes right before the beach on the hike and is next to Arco Natural, the next viewpoint.
This picture was clicked in the peak daylight, so just imagine how stunning it would look at time of golden hour during sunrise or sunset.
View of Marinha beach from Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Another amazing viewpoint of the Marinha beach is the one that comes right before one enters the beach from the parking spot.
Just like I told you to take a break at Benagil Cave, another spot for you to take a break is Marinha Beach. It is often called the most beautiful beach in Europe and it is totally worth the hype.
Praia da Marinha beach in Algarve
Praia da Marinha has amazingly clean water, soft sand, interesting rock formations, and arches. This beach is a perfect place to enjoy a beach day, you wouldn’t want to leave.
There is also an affordable beach bar and restaurant where I had two meals and loved them. The sangrias here were just EUR 3 per glass, which is an unbelievable price considering it is right on the beach and one that looks so pretty.
A part of Praia da Marinha from up above
Another amazing viewpoint of Praia da Marinha is after you cross the beach and walk beyond the end of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail. It is worth it because you will also see another lovely viewpoint that comes after, which I mention in the next point.
11) Praia da Malhada do Baraço
A stunning spot at Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – Algarve itineraryPraia da Malhada do Baraço, Algarve, Portugal
This is the viewpoint after the Marinha Beach and isn’t “officially” on the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail but I think it is worth mentioning because the water here looks very smooth and blue from the top.
The beach Praia da Malhada do Baraço looked breathtaking from up above and we could see just one couple on it who kayaked to the beach as we hiked up above.
Pro Tip – Split the Seven Hanging Valleys / Sete Vales Suspensos Hike
Sete Vales Suspensos trekking in the Algarve, Portugal
You don’t need to do the entire Sete Vales Suspensos trek in one go, it is more fun to split it. That way you can see more sunsets here at different spots, spend longer time on the beaches and have a more relaxed holiday. This is the same thing that I suggested for my Ponta da Piedade hike.
Benagil Beach is the middle point of the Sete Vales Suspensos hike, which makes it easier to split it with a break. If you decide to split it, here’s how I suggest you do it.
Uber in Algarve Portugal
Arrive via Uber to Benagil Beach (Uber is so cheap in Portugal, was EUR 7 from Carvoiero to Benagil) and from here kayak to the Benagil Cave.
Come back to Benagil Beach to return the kayak and then hike from Benagil to Marinha Beach. This is the best part of the hike. Spend the rest of the day at Marinha and take an Uber to go back.
Vale de Centeanes beach in Carvoeiro
Spend a day at Praia do Vale de Centeanes – the pretty beach that’s the starting point. Then do the sunset hike to Benagil. Or, arrive at Benagil and hike back from Benagil to Praia do Vale de Centeanes and spend the rest of the day here.
Stay Safe: Don’t do this hike after dark. There are many holes in the rocks and every single one of them was fenced off but you never know. It is easy to miss a step when it is dark so please don’t do this hike after the sunset.
The Hiking Path is Unsafe at Some Points
If you are like me and would like to see the sunset from one of the viewpoints, then plan in a way that you have enough time to hike back. When in doubt, just UBER it back to your hotel. Uber is very cheap in Portugal and we never paid more than EUR 7.
I’d like to say that wear comfortable shoes but I did this hike in flip-flops. I can’t wear closed shoes in summer but if I ever take my child on a hike like this, I’d never let her wear flip-flops.
Where to Stay near the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?
Rocha Brava Our apartment in Village Resort, Carvoeiro, Algarve
I have mentioned this already in my Algarve Road trip itinerary and Carvoeiro posts – the best base for the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is Carvoeiro. In Carvoeiro, pick a place that’s close to the start of the trail, so somewhere near Vale de Centeanes beach.
For that reason, we stayed at Rocha Brava Village Resort. It is a beautiful resort with villas, apartments, restaurants, supermarkets, a bakery, man-made waterfalls, sports centers, swimming pools, and play areas, and is close to the beach.
Our apartment was less than EUR 100 per night for two and had a kitchen too. This way we saved money by cooking two meals per day ourselves.
Another option for a great place to book nearby is Tivoli Carvoiero. It is a super stunning property with a view of the sea and cliffs on both sides. It overlooks Vale Covo and has pools with a view that’s unmatched.
FAQs about hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys
How long does it take to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?
It takes 3 hours one way to hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail with a lot of photo breaks and stops. You can take a break in the middle to eat lunch at one of the restaurants on Benagil Beach, it is the midpoint. As mentioned above, it is more fun to split this hike, so that you can also kayak to the Benagil Cave and do the rest on another day. This way, you can enjoy two different sunset spots or sunrise spots on the hike.
How hard is the Seven Hanging Valleys Hike?
It is not a difficult hike but at times one has to climb up, so I wouldn’t call it “easy” but somewhere between medium and easy.
Where do I start the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail?
The trail starts at Vale de Centeanes Beach and ends at Marinha Beach. So it isn’t actually from beach to beach but from the viewpoint of the Vale de Centeanes beach to the viewpoint of Marinha Beach.
You can go to the viewpoint of the starting beach to start the trail, which is Miradouro Vale Centeanes. I found some parts of the hiking paths from the start point super narrow and at times broken. You can also start the hike a bit further from Alfanzina Lighthouse.
The best part of this hike is after Benagil and Carvalho beaches, so you can actually skip the first part and do it till the end to Marinha Beach.
The Seven Hanging Valleys trail ends at the super beautiful Praia da Marinha, which is often called the most beautiful beach in Europe. You can take a break and enjoy a peaceful beach day at Praia da Marinha.
Do you need hiking shoes for the Algarve?
I’d say yes. To be honest, I did this hike and also the Ponta da Piedade hike in the Algarve wearing flip-flips because I didn’t want to wear closed shoes in summer. But I still recommend you carry hiking shoes to be safe. Carvoeiro and Lagos both offer a lot of hiking opportunities and in some areas the path tends to get slippery so decent hiking shoes definitely help.
Closing Thoughts on Setes Vales Suspensos Trekking or Seven Hanging Valleys Hike
Seven Hanging Vallleys Hike – Pin this image
The main beauty of the Algarve is the rocks. So beaches aren’t the only places where you can enjoy the rocks but also hikes like these ones where one can see stunning sights.
Make sure you read my Algarve itinerary so that you can maximize your time here based on my expert times since I visited this area more than once.
If you like hiking, don’t miss Lagos. You can hike from one beach to another and explore the entire coastline to see all the beaches of Lagos. Don’t miss the Ponta da Piedade hike because that’s truly out of the world.
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If you live in Europe in a country near the Netherlands, then you have most definitely heard of Zandvoort. It is a beach destination that’s close to Amsterdam popular amongst the local Dutch and the nearby Germans.
Zandvoort and Bloemendaal are two beaches that are easy to reach on a day trip from Amsterdam and are along the North Sea.
Zandvoort and Bloemendaal beaches near Amsterdam
So the question is – is Zandvoort worth visiting?
I visited Zandvoort twice in the summer of 2023, so I will help you decide with the below points.
Planning a last-minute trip to Zandvoort? Check my recommendations for accommodation:
Hotel / Pension Villa Tanahlot: Another cozy apartment close to the beach and is more affordable than most of the other places to stay in Zandvoort.
Poort Beach Boutique Apartments: A truly beachfront property on Bloemendaal Beach. If you have the money then spend on this place to have the beach experience that you deserve on a beach holiday.
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Zandvoort Beach & Bloemendaal Beach
Zandvoort Beach near Haarlem
I have lived in Asia for most of my life so I’m spoilt when it comes to beaches since one can find the perfect palm-fringed sandy beaches in many coastal areas of Asia.
European beaches have often disappointed me. I didn’t expect a lot from Zandvoort too but I was pleasantly surprised to see how stunning this beach is.
Zandvoort Beach is massive, it stretches to 9 kilometers long, and Bloemendaal Beach adds another 4.5 km and is 100 meters wide on average. There are plenty of sand dunes too!
Enjoying the Bloemendaal Beach in August 2023
Zandvoort and Bloemendaal beaches are one after another so if you are visiting Zandvoort, you can definitely visit the nearby Bloemendaal on that same trip. Bloemendaal definitely has a better beach area because it is less crowded than Zandvoort.
View from the top of Camping De Lakens next to Kennemerland National Park
Both these beaches have super soft white sand and clear water that’s usually cold. The sandy part of Zandvoort Beach and Bloemendaal stole my heart because
The windy climate of Zandvoort & Bloemendaal makes ideal conditions for kite surfers. The wind also creates an interesting landscape.
So in terms of the beauty of the beach, Zandvoort definitely wins.
Kennemerland National Park
Kennemerland National Park near Bloemendaal & Zandvoort
On the North of Bloemendal beach is Kennemerland National Park, where you can go on bicycles. The atmosphere here is very calm and you can see the natural scenery with endless dunes.
View from the top of Camping De Lakens next to Kennemerland National Park
If you like trees and grassy hills then you will enjoy Kennemerland National Park. Don’t expect anything else here or any spectacular scenes because that’s about it.
Bird-watching enthusiasts will enjoy Kennemerland National Park because it offers a lot of possibilities.
Inside View Kennemerland National Park, the Netherlands
Some travelers also saw wild horses and bison inside the national park but we didn’t. Our camping spot in Bloemendaal was right next to Kennemerland National Park, so we did see a wild deer once but not when we were inside the national park.
Costs in Zandvoort & Bloemendaal
Our backpacker shack in Bloemendaal for EUR 100 per night without an attached toilet
Zandvoort isn’t the most affordable destination. The rooms are usually at least 150 euros per night for a family in season, and they sell out pretty fast.
The campgrounds are more affordable than the rooms of course, but they are still not cheap.
The restaurants and cafes in Zandvoort aren’t cheap. Food in a restaurant for a family can be as expensive as EUR 60 for three (a couple and a kid).
If you rent a bicycle in Zandvoort, it can be as expensive as EUR 30 per day and sometimes even more.
Bicycle rental in Zandvoort and Bloemendaal is expensive
Of course, there are ways to minimize costs. When you look for a place to stay, don’t just limit your options to Zandvoort, but also look at Bloemendaal. Bloemendaal isn’t cheaper but has more family-friendly stuff.
We booked a shack on a campground in Bloemendaal, cooked our own meals, and ate out only once a day. Also, we found food trucks that sold fresh seafood and fish and were affordable.
So, in terms of costs, Zandvoort definitely doesn’t win. For the price of 2 days in Zandvoort, one can enjoy a week in Portugal.
Food in Zandvoort
A fish truck in Zandvoort for Kibbeling and other seafood
I have said it before and I will reiterate – the food scene in the Netherlands is amazing. Not only is the local food delicious but one can easily find international food or also vegan versions of most of the dishes.
If you like fish then you will especially love the food in Zandvoort. Even though Dutch food isn’t spicy, it doesn’t lack flavor and that’s why I love the local food.
Seafood with a view from a food truck in Zandvoort
I love Kibbeling (the local fried fish), Bitterballen (fried balls with meat and vegan versions), seafood sandwiches, and overall I like the use of a herb called “Zeekraal” that the Dutch use, which adds a herby yet seaweed kind of a flavor.
Bitterballen at Restaurant Gestrand Bloemendaal
Apart from that, I have always enjoyed amazing international food and I’d like to mention a place called Little Jamaican Bistro in Haarlem, just 15 minutes drive away from Zandvoort.
A lot of Dutch snacks and foods are fried, so if you don’t like that then you’d enjoy salads too that are super filling.
So in terms of food, Zandvoort definitely wins.
Weather in Zandvoort
Windy Zandvoort beach
The weather in Zandvoort is unpredictable and it can rain anytime. I don’t mean the normal rain but it gets stormy and one can’t do anything.
I have heard incidents of people whose tents flew away because of a windstorm in Zandvoort.
Of course, the months of June, July, August, and sometimes even September are warm but don’t take sunny days on the beach as a guarantee if you visit Zandvoort.
Flying Kite on Zandvoort Beach
Instead, prepare for the wind. If you are going with a kid then carry a kite and make it fun for them. My little girl loved flying her kite on the beach here because the wind made it so easy!
So in terms of weather, Zandvoort doesn’t always win but if you like kite surfing or windsurfing then it will work out well for you.
Zandvoort for Formula One Enthusiasts
Did you know that the Dutch Grand Prix has been held annually in Zandvoort since 2021? It was added to the Formula One calendar in 2019. It is called Circuit Zandvoort and also CM.com Circuit Zandvoort. Before 2017, it was called the Circuit Park Zandvoort
Zandvoort and Bloemendaal have many cycling trails and when we cycled around the Dunes, we were stopped by our guide near the race track and we could hear the practice! It is more towards Bloemendaal beach than Zandvoort beach.
If you are a Formula One enthusiast, that’s one reason for you to visit Zandvoort, even if the race isn’t occurring at the time of your visit!
Nearby Destinations
Canals, narrow houses, and bridges – Haarlem not Amsterdam
One of the best things about traveling in the Netherlands is that there is always an interesting destination around and it is so easy to visit the nearby destinations.
If you visit Zandvoort, then visit the nearby Haarlem because it is just a 15-minute drive away and is pretty. You can also cycle to Haarlem from Zandvoort. I did it and it was fun.
I’m always happy in Amsterdam
Apart from Haarlem, you can also take a train or a bus to make a day trip to Amsterdam. You can plan it in a way that you can visit Haarlem or Amsterdam on a day when there’s a storm possibility in Zandvoort because you will still have fun in the city when it is raining!
In springtime, you can also consider visiting Keukenhof and Lisse to see the tulips.
So is Zandvoort worth visiting?
Zandvoort and Bloemendaal beaches are lovely
It depends. As mentioned before, Zandvoort is expensive and in summer it is even more expensive than Amsterdam, which already is an expensive destination.
So, Zandvoort is worth visiting if you are ok spending a bit more than other beach destinations. Also, if you live nearby and are looking for a beach trip with a short travel time then in that case Zandvoort makes sense.
I live around 4 hours drive away from Zandvoort so I’d pick it as a destination only when I have 2-3 days of holiday time. For a longer holiday, I’d pick the beaches of Portugal since they are more affordable and warmer.
Where to stay in Zandvoort?
Our beach shack at Kennemer Duincamping De Lakens
As mentioned before, don’t limit your search for places to stay in just Zandvoort but also include Bloemendaal aan Zee.
If you want a “beachfront” room, then you need to know that you won’t get that in Zandvoort even if the booking website says it is because there is a street in front. However, on Bloemendaal you can get beachfront rooms or camping areas.
On the other hand, if you want to be close to the restaurants, bars, nightlife, or the city center within walking distance of the beach, then book something at Zandvoort.
Poort Beach Boutique Apartments: A truly beachfront property on Bloemendaal Beach. If you have the money then spend on this place to have the beach experience that you deserve on a beach holiday.
Having visited Zandvoort twice, I’d pick Bloemendaal Beach to stay head to Zandvoort for food, nightlife, and the city scenes.
Beach Shack at Kennemer Duincamping De Lakens
We stayed in a place called “Kennemer Duincamping De Lakens” which we booked directly online. This place sells out a year in advance, so I wish you all the best for finding anything here.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Guide to visiting Amsterdam with kids and what to do with children in Amsterdam.
Out of all the destinations that I have ever visited, I have posted the most about Amsterdam on my website because that’s one destination that I have visited over and over again.
Not only is Amsterdam stunning but is a very easy destination to explore and offers many amazing things to do for every kind of traveler.
So the question is, is Amsterdam ok to visit with kids? I’m happy to tell you that it is. I did visit Amsterdam with my little girl and it was a lot of fun.
Based on my multiple visits, I have created a list of amazing things that you can do in Amsterdam with your little ones. This list has been made keeping in mind children starting from the toddler phase till teenager.
My biggest tip for exploring Amsterdam with children is to take things super slow. The city is busy and can end up being stressful because of the fast-moving bicycle traffic. So, don’t schedule too many activities in a day. I will add more tips for visiting Amsterdam with children at the end of this post.
So, if you are looking for things to do with children in Amsterdam, it is likely that you will see websites with exhaustive lists to confuse to further. I have a short, crisp, and a list of fun things to do with kids in Amsterdam.
Table of Contents
1) Rent a Bicycle with kinderzitje
Amsterdam bicycle with child buggy
Amsterdam city isn’t car-friendly but cyclist-friendly even more than it is pedestrian-friendly. If you decide to explore this city with your children on foot, it will be too much for them.
To create an amazing memory for them of this trip, rent a bicycle with a kinderzitje, or a child seat.
You can find bicycles with seats for babies or buggies that fit 2-3 children. They are called “cargo bikes”.
Amsterdam bicycle with children’s buggy
Get a cargo bike, let your children sit in front, and take them around some of Amsterdam’s quieter streets in Jordaan that are pretty and they will have an amazing time.
Of course, if you have slightly older children, they can ride their own bicycles, or walk with you all over the city.
Albert Cuyp Bike Rental Amsterdam
I recommend booking most of the things online but in my experience, the bicycle rental is cheaper in person, but it can be a risk if the bikes with buggies are already all rented out.
I did see cargo bikes for EUR 27 a day at Black-Bikes. I did see cheaper bikes at Albert Cuyp bike rental with child seats from EUR 10 – 15, but not a buggy.
In order to book a normal bike, you can check out MacBikes too, they have shops all over Amsterdam.
I had a bike from MacBike in 2021, which was included for free with my “I Amsterdam” city card. With this card, one gets unlimited use of public transport and free entrance to many attractions that are mentioned below. But I will talk more about the Amsterdam city card at the end of the post.
2) Het Muizenhuis – Mouse Mansion
Het Muizenhuis – Mouse Mansion
Did you know that there’s a mouse mansion in Amsterdam? It is called Het Muizenhuis in Dutch and is in Jordaan.
The Mouse Mansion is like a miniature wonderland for mice with intricate details that will blow your mind.
Inside Het Muizenhuis – Mouse Mansion
There’s a living area with the bedroom of the Mouse family, kitchen, library, everything. I also loved this rollercoaster and bumper car for mice.
You can also buy books, soft toys, and DIY kits. I visited without my kid and still enjoyed it, so imagine how much fun this place is for small children. Add this place to your Amsterdam list of must-visit spots with children.
Het Muizenhuis is free to visit but we ended up buying a toy for my little girl which was for EUR 12. Click here for the location.
3) Butterfly Garden at Hortus Botanicus
Butterfly Garden in Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
Hortus Botanicus is a lovely botanical garden with outdoor and massive greenhouse sections.
Inside Hortus Botanicus is a tropical forest, a cactus hall, a palm house, and a section with massive water lilies, but the section that I think will be the most interesting for children is the Butterfly Garden.
The Butterfly Garden in Hortus Botanicus is a small greenhouse that has plants and an insane amount of pretty butterflies. They create the most magical atmosphere as they flutter around in slow motion. For me, the time stood still as I stepped into this room.
Tropical Forest in Hortus Botanicus
Please ask ahead if the butterfly section is open BEFORE you tell your children about it and get them excited. Even though as per my knowledge it is open all year round.
Moreover, Hortus Botanicus has many other sections that the children would love. There are special children’s activities that are organized by Hortus Botanicus.
Nature is an important part of life and every child should be given enough opportunities to appreciate the beauty of nature. That’s something you can do at Hortus Botanicus.
The entry for Hortus Botanicus is EUR 12.50 for adults, EUR 6.50 for children over 5, and free for children under 5. If you get the I Amsterdam city card, the entry for Hortus Botanicus is free.
4) Nemo Science Museum
NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam
A visit to the NEMO Science Museum is something that is going to be fun for children of all ages. This museum is interesting from both inside and outside. It is waterfront and the building looks like a boat.
Inside the NEMO Science Museum, 5 floors are full of interesting exhibits. There are interactive science experiments & shows. Each floor has something different to offer such as mechanical sciences, energy, space, human sciences, etc.
Take your children to NEMO Science Museum via Unsplash
Ask at the information desk about the live shows because there are many happening at different times and watching one will be an unforgettable experience for you and your children.
Entry to the NEMO Science Museum is free for children under 4 and is EUR 17.50 for ages 4 and above. I highly recommend you book the tickets and a time slot in advance so that your children don’t have to wait.
NEMO Science museum is free to visit with the I Amsterdam city card, so if you are visiting 2+ attractions, it makes more sense to just get the card and book all the time slots on the card app directly to manage your schedule in one place.
5) De Poezenboot – Boat with Rescued Cats
Cats inside Inside De Poezenboot, Amsterdam
De Poeezenboot is a houseboat that is a shelter for rescued cats. It is on the Singel Canal and is very easy to find.
Children often love activities that involve small animals and they will love visiting De Poezenboot because they will meet a lot of cats there. Make sure to ask the helpers which cats are friendly enough to play with.
Inside De Poezenboot – the cacatboatn Amsterdam
De Poezenboot is open just three times a week from 1 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is open just on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. So don’t mention this place to your kids from before so that they aren’t disappointed if it is closed. Just let it be a surprise.
De Poezenboot is free to visit but we highly recommend you donate something for the upkeep of this amazing shelter for cats. Click here for location.
6) Mechanisch Speelgoed – Best Toy Store in Amsterdam
Mechanisch Speelgoed – Toy Store in Amsterdam
Mechanisch Speelgoed is a one-of-a-kind old-fashioned toy store that is small but has so much to see. Don’t expect a place like “Toy R Us” or Hanleys because Mechanisch Speelgoed has a vintage kind of feel.
The toys in Mechanisch Speelgoed aren’t battery-operated and aren’t the ones where the children just have to press buttons. Instead, these are mechanical toys where one has to turn a key!
Inside Mechanisch Speelgoed, Amsterdam
Since it is a shop, it is obviously free to enter but keep in mind that you will spend money here. Let your children know that they can buy just ONE toy here.
I bought so much stuff for my little girl from Mechanisch Speelgoed for just 35 Euros. I wasn’t even here with my daughter but I ended up spending a long time here enjoying the vintage toys. No wonder this place is rated 4.9 on Google Maps!
Mechanisch Speelgoed is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day except Sundays. On Sundays, it is open from 12 noon to 5 p.m. Click here for the location.
7) Canal Cruise Boat Trip
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s canals is on a boat and this is an activity that children will love.
The good thing is that small children can usually enter for free when you do a boat trip. Enjoy the stunning city as the boat moves under the bridges from one canal to the other.
The thing with doing a boat trip with children is that remember that they wouldn’t want to sit still for a very long time so don’t pick the longest boat trip. Pick something for a maximum of one hour and that should be enough.
I have shortlisted a few boat tours for you which are for one hour and in some of them there’s a bar so that you can sip a drink.
I did a boat trip with my girl in Hamburg when she was 4 years old, and she loved it. But the boat trip was for almost two hours and she did get restless at the end.
Also, pick an afternoon boat tour that starts after lunch because that’s when their energy (and yours) will be at its lowest so you can just sit back and enjoy.
As mentioned before, if you get an I Amsterdam city card, it already includes a free boat trip so perhaps that option may work better for you.
8) ADAM Lookout and Extreme Swing
Extreme Swing on A’Dam Tower – 2 Days in Amsterdam
This is something for the older kids because it can be too much for the smaller ones.
From Amsterdam Centraal, catch a free ferry that goes to the other side of the IJ river and get on top of the ADAM Tower. From here, you can enjoy a nice view over the Amsterdam city on all the sides.
What’s more, is that there is an extreme swing on top of ADAM Tower. I did ride it once with my husband in 2017 and I think children over 11 will love it.
The time I visited, the entry for the A’DAM tower and lookout was free with the I Amsterdam city card but I don’t think that’s the case now.
There is a family discount for the tower visit at the moment and there is more information about that on their website.
9) ARTIS – Nature Artis Magistra
ARTIS is short for “Nature Artis Magistra”, which means nature is the teacher of art. It is a zoo, aquarium, planetarium, micropia, a library, and a botanical garden with loads of activities and shows for children and grown-ups.
ARTIS has 27 historically significant bridges, buildings, and ponds that have been used as animal enclosures since 1838.
Some activities are organized daily in Artis that your children will enjoy. Such as the zookeepers present different animals such as Sea Lions, lemurs, lions, elephants, vultures, gorillas, penguins, and many more interesting creatures as mentioned in the daily schedule.
There are interactive lectures about topics such as evolution, and planetary health, and several walks organized every week.
To be honest, I never ended up visiting ARTIS and I don’t promote animal tourism but this is a responsible organisation per my research.
ARTIS is free to visit with the I Amsterdam city card but make sure you book a slot from before. Without the card, the tickets are for EUR 20 for children from 3 and above just for ARTIS Zoo.
10) Food Hallen
Food Hallen, De Hallen – Amsterdam with children
Are your children picky eaters? You aren’t alone.
Bring your children to Food Hallen, which is an amazing food court with many options for things to eat.
The thing I don’t like about a lot of food in Amsterdam is that there are too many sweet options that are easily available and visible – pancakes, waffles, cookies, things with caramel syrup and the list goes on.
De Ballenbar in De Hallen Amsterdam
I don’t give sweet things to my little girl for a meal, but only as an after-meal sweet treat, and definitely tiny in size.
So, keeping that in mind I want to recommend Food Hallen to you, which has many stalls with a variety of things to eat and even the pickiest of eaters will find something.
Crab bun from Mer Du Nord in Food Hallen Amsterdam
Some children-friendly things to eat at Food Hallen are Bitterballen, Fries, Fish sandwiches, Burgers, and dumplings. Of course, there is a stand for sweet things but if you play it smart and just take them quickly inside, they won’t notice it there so won’t know that sweets are even an option.
The atmosphere in Food Hallen is pretty relaxed so you won’t feel stressed about your kids creating a ruckus. You can order something special for yourself or even a cocktail from the Gin and Tonic bar as you take a chill pill.
Tips for Visiting Amsterdam with Children
I have a post about traveling with children but below are some Amsterdam-specific tips for you to make your time stress-free as you explore my favorite city with your kids.
1) Avoid Dam Square and De Wallen
Avoid De Wallen in Amsterdam with Children via Unsplash
If you have read any of my other posts about Amsterdam, then you know already that Dam Square and De Wallen should be avoided altogether when you are in Amsterdam with kids.
This area has the red light district, sex shops, smart shops with bongs and whatnot, and loud tourists who are in Amsterdam just to get high or party. So, don’t bring your children to this area.
2) Consider Getting the I Amsterdam City Card
Traveling with children is not cheap and Amsterdam is an expensive city. So save as much money as you can on activities. If you visit even 2 attractions per day then the I Amsterdam city card’s costs are worth it and it has many more free things.
Most of the things to do in Amsterdam with kids that I have mentioned here are free with the I Amsterdam city card, and also on top of that one boat trip per card, one bike rental, and unlimited use of public transport.
If you are a parent then you know this already even the sweetest-natured children turn whiney when they have to wait. They will forget about it within minutes when the wait is over but it will be hell for you when they have to wait.
So, plan things in advance and book your time slots already.
4) Amsterdam’s Parks and Playgrounds
Children’s Play Area at Johnny Jordaanplein Amsterdam
Amsterdam has many parks and playgrounds. Make the most of them so that your kids can play for a while and you can sit on the bench for a little break.
If you are anything like me, you would pack a few snacks not just for the kids but also for yourself.
No matter where you go in Amsterdam, it is likely that a playground is nearby so just put “playground” on Google Maps to find the nearest one.
5) Surprise Them
Don’t tell them about the plans before you visit because if a place is too busy or isn’t possible to visit, they will be disappointed. Instead, when you arrive at a place and can enter (which you will if you book a time slot in advance), that’s when you can surprise them.
Watch the happiness on their faces because children love surprises.
6) Look for Seasonal Activities
If you visit Amsterdam in winter, you can go ice skating with your children. During Christmas time, you can ride Christmas carousels together.
Summertime is when there are open-air concerts in Vondelpark and some are children-friendly. You can also consider making a side trip to Zandvoort and Bloemendaal beaches near Amsterdam which are family-friendly and can be reached by train/bus or an E-Bike.
In spring, you can take them to see the tulip gardens
Ice Skating in Winter in Amsterdam with children via Pixabay
If you visit Amsterdam in winter, you can go ice skating with your children and ride carousels in Christmas markets. In summer, you can take them to open-air music shows in Vondelpark and some are child-friendly.
In spring, you can take them to the tulip gardens of Keukenhof. If you look for seasonal activities, there is something new to do with children in Amsterdam in every season.
Read more Amsterdam Travel posts on my website
I have written a lot of articles about Amsterdam and I recommend you read at least some of them before you visit:
If you are new to my website and would like more information about traveling to Amsterdam, be sure to check out the below posts too:
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
I visited the Algarve twice and here’s my travel guide for Carvoeiro Algarve.
If you have a thing for stunning beaches, then most likely you have heard of Portugal’s Algarve region. Did you know that the Algarve region easily has 10+ destinations?
The most popular destination in the Algarve is Albufeira and that’s where most of the people go. But you know me, I avoid overly crowded places but I don’t compromise on the landscape beauty.
Carvoeiro Town in Algarve, Portugal near Benagil Cave
Some of the other destinations in the Algarve are Lagos (which I absolutely love), Portimao (which I didn’t like), Faro (the airport is here), Tavira, Sagres, Silves, Olhão, Quarteira, Loulé, and Vila Real de Santo António to name just a few.
The destination that I saw from the water and instantly fell in love with was Carvoeiro. Do you want to know why?
Introducing Carvoiro, Portugal
Vale de Centeanes in Carvoeiro, Portugal
First, let me explain what makes the Algarve so special. Yes, the Algarve has the perfect warm Mediterranean climate but that’s not it.
It’s the stunning landscape caused by the rock formations. The unique sea cliffs are around most of the beaches in the Algarve and as a result, they look spectacular.
One can hike from beach to beach in the Algarve and there are many viewpoints. The most famous hike is Ponta da Piedade in Lagos. Back in 2022, I did this hike every day because it was super stunning.
Carvoeiro is even more special because not only are there rock formations, but these rocks create thousands of caves here. So some spots reminded me of Cappadocia!
Exploring the grottos and rock formations in Carvoeiro, Portugal
I have visited the Algarve twice. I actually went back the second time after a year just so that I could spend time exploring the caves of Carvoiro that I saw from the water while I was on the way to Benagil cave from Portimão. Carvoiro is between Portimão and Albufeira
So now that you know what and where Carvoeiro is, let me tell you about the amazing places to visit here.
Planning a last-minute trip to Carvoeiro? I have got you covered! Check out my list of recommended activities and hotels:
Rocha Brava Village Resort – This is where we stayed. It is a stunning resort with amazing villas, and apartments and is close to the beach.
Tivoli Carvoiero – This is a super stunning property with a view of the sea and cliffs on both sides. It overlooks Vale Covo and has pools with a view.
Things to do in Carvoeiro Algarve Portugal
Table of Contents
1) Algar Seco Caves
Algar Seco Cliff Walk – Carvoeiro Algarve
Algar Seco caves are the reason why I revisited the Algarve. It is a network of caves that face the sea, and you can walk from one cave to another.
Seriously, this part of the Algarve made us feel like we were on another planet. There is a boardwalk that goes along the Algar Seco caves but to visit many of the caves, one has to walk on the rocks.
Algar Seco Cliff Walk – Algarve
The entire Algar Seco Caves walk stretches for a few hundred kilometers along the coast in Carvoeiro. Years have erosion have created these stunning grottos on the rock along the water.
The Algar Seco caves are on one of the most popular walking trails in Carvoeiro, which is the Carvoeiro boardwalk.
Algar Seco Cliff Walk – Algarve road trip
This area is famous for its bottlenose dolphins but we didn’t see any. I have also read that a Blue Whale was spotted here in 2011.
As mentioned before, you should ideally wear proper shoes but I always do such hikes in flip-flops. I know it isn’t the safest thing to do but I can’t wear closed shoes in summer.
This trail starts at Praia do Vale de Centeanes, which is a stunning beach, and ends at Praia da Marinha, which is often called Portugal’s prettiest beach. The trail also goes on top of the Benagil Cave.
Sunset Hike – Seven Hanging Valleys in Carvoeiro
The entire Seven Hanging Valleys has one viewpoint after another and Algares (holes) that are thankfully marked. You can look inside some of them from the top and see small private beaches.
The entire trail takes up to 3-4 hours if you stop many times to click photos. The best part obviously is at sunrise time or sunset. You don’t have to do the entire trail in one go, it is a better idea to split it.
A stunning spot at Seven Hanging Valleys Trail – Algarve itinerary
We did the part from Benagil Beach to Marinha Beach one day, and then once again for sunset. We hiked the part from Vale de Centeanes to Benagil Beach during the day on another day.
The part from Benagil Cave to Marinha Beach on sete vales suspensos is the prettiest. Right on top of Marinha Beach, one can also see a heart shape that’s created with overlapping rocks.
Seven Hanging Valleys Hike in Algarve itinerary
Unlike the Ponta da Piedade hike, the Seven Hanging Valleys trail doesn’t have a proper boardwalk but a hiking path instead. At several places, it looks like the path is closed off with “Danger” signs but they are about the holes in the rocks, which are called Algares.
3) Benagil Cave & Beach
The empty Benagil Cave Beach in the morning – June 2023
Imagine a secret beach with a hole on top for light, and the only way to visit is by water. It will give you Indiana Jones vibes when you finally enter this stunning cave because it is an adventure.
I have visited the Benagil Cave twice – once on a kayak in 2022 and then on a SUP in 2023. In 2022 I visited the cave from Portimão because I was staying in Lagos. It was a catamaran and we got onto our kayaks a little before Benagil beach. In 2023 directly from Benagil Beach.
Paddleboarding to Benagil Cave, Algarve
I had a different experience on both occasions because one was at the peak visiting time and the second was at the earliest time possible. The first was a group tour and the second was a private tour – they both costed the same EUR 40 per person, but the private one was obviously better.
Inside Benagil Cave – June 2023
So should you do a tour or rent a kayak/paddleboard and reach the Benagil Cave on your own? If you have a lot of experience kayaking or SUPing, then, by all means, do it without a guide.
Benagil Kayak Rental: If you have enough kayaking experience, then you can rent the kayak and do it yourself. But be careful of the rocks at the entry of the cave.
Yes, I have done a lot of kayaking too but I didn’t want to do it without a guide because of the rocks. The cave entry spot gets tricky because of the waves and I didn’t want a big wave to throw me against the rocks.
4) Marinha Beach
The famous Marinha beach in Portugal – Algarve itinerary
Praia da Marinha or just the Marinha beach is not only one of the most famous beaches in Portugal but Europe. It is super close to Carvoeiro, so you can visit it literally every day like we did.
SUP and Kayaking near Marinha Beach and to Benagil Cave
If you are doing the Seven Hanging Valleys trail then you will definitely get to visit the Marinha beach. You can do the hike early and then spend a day on Marinha Beach to relax.
Alternatively, you can use Uber to reach Marinha Beach from Carvoeiro, it costs just EUR 7. Of course, the normal taxis are more expensive.
Praia da Marinha beach in Algarve
Praia da Marinha is the perfect beach with soft sand, clear water that’s cold, and stunning rock formations. There are arches, and you can swim around them for a fun experience.
The rock formations provide a decent amount of shaded spots for you to put up your mat. This is also one of the reasons why I love the beaches of Algarve.
The amazing restaurant at Marinha Beach, Algarve
Praia da Marinha has a restaurant at the entry area with surprisingly delicious and affordable food. We ate here twice and loved the sangrias. There is also a WC behind the restaurant.
5) Praia do Vale de Centeanes
Carvoeiro – Vale de Centeanes beach
If you are looking for an amazing beach to spend most of your time without too many people, then this is it. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Carvoeiro.
Praia do Vale de Centeanes was right behind our resort so we ended up visiting it and spent a day here. This beach is a smaller version of Praia da Marinha, it is similar but also a bit different.
Vale de Centeanes has an arch towards the end of the beach and you can sit right under it for a perfect partially shaded spot with the ocean in front of your eyes.
Vale de Centeanes beach, Carvoeiro
The water at the entry point had seaweed but just after a few meters, it was super clean. So, if you enter and see seaweed, don’t be instantly disappointed but walk a bit further.
The water is very after you cross the initial seaweed area and it is a delight to swim here. The sand is also perfectly soft and doesn’t have too many pebbles.
Vale de Centeanes beach in Carvoeiro
There is a restaurant/bar at the entry point of Vale de Centeanes, and also a WC. So, grab a beer or another drink as soon as you enter, walk further set up a spot with your mat, and enjoy your chilled drink.
We spent an entire day at Vale de Centeanes and we didn’t ever feel that it was crowded.
6) Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Carvoeiro Boardwalk at Sunset time, Algarve
One of the best things to do in Carvoeiro to enjoy an evening is to do the entire Carvoeiro Boardwalk. As the name suggests, it is a wooden walkway along Caroeiro’s rocky coast, so expect viewpoints and pretty sights.
We actually combined the Carvoeiro Boardwalk with the Algar Seco cave walk and it was a fun experience. It is a 570-meter-long boardwalk so is tiny.
View of Carvoeiro Beach and Town at the end of the Carvoeiro Boardwalk
We saw the sunset at Algar Seco caves and walked the Carvoeiro Boardwalk during the golden hour. Algar Seco comes halfway in the middle when you see a restaurant called “A Boneca”.
This walk ends near Forte de Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, and from there you can walk a bit further to Miradouro da Senhora da Encarnação.
Praia de Carvoeiro, the Algarve
From Miradouro da Senhora da Encarnação, you can see the main beach – Praia de Carvoeiro. From here you can walk down to the main town area of Carvoeiro, which has restaurants, bars, and many other places that can be found in typical summer destinations.
Praia de Carvoeiro is a busy beach and so is the Carvoeiro town area that’s next to it. This is why we decided to spend most of our time on quieter beaches like Vale de Centeanes and Marinha.
How to Reach Carvoeiro?
The closest airport to Carvoeiro is in Faro, but you can also land in Lisbon and do the journey to Carvoeiro by bus.
Carvoeiro doesn’t have a train station so arriving here isn’t such a breeze, unlike Lagos which you can directly reach by train from Faro or Lisbon.
How to Reach Carvoeiro Algarve, Portugal
In order to reach Carvoeiro from Lagos, you have to arrive at Lagoa (not Lagos) or Albufeira by train or bus, from there just get on a taxi to reach Carvoeiro. It is cheaper if you Uber it from Lagoa instead of getting on a “normal” taxi.
If you are traveling to the Algarve with a group of people, then it makes sense to rent a car from Faro or Lisbon and travel internally within the country. Somehow the car rental prices are so much lower in Portugal as compared to Italy.
The second option is to book a transfer on the “SunTransfers” website. I actually did a lot of research and it seemed to be the only affordable option.
When I say affordable, I mean cheaper than a taxi but definitely more expensive than a bus. Unfortunately, I didn’t book in advance and there wasn’t any slot available just a day before traveling.
Another option would be to book a direct bus from Lisbon to Albufeira, and from there do the remaining journey by local bus or taxi. We got onto Flixbus from Albufeira to reach Lisbon and the journey took just 3 hours.
Rocha Brava Village – Best Place to stay in Carvoeiro with Villas, Apartments
Our apartment in Rocha Brava Village Resort, Carvoeiro, Portugal
We stayed in a place called Rocha Brava Village Resort and it was breathtaking. It was massive and the entire complex had bungalows, villas, low-rise apartments, and many kinds of accommodations with interesting architecture. It felt like a mini village and not just a resort.
The entire resort complex has paradisical landscaping – waterfalls, ponds, flowery arches, tropical trees, and much more.
Our apartment in Rocha Brava Village Resort, Carvoeiro, Algarve
We had an entire apartment to ourselves with a kitchen, dining area, balcony with sun loungers, bedroom with AC, bathroom, and a dressing area. Unlike AirB&B, there was also a cleaning service because it is a resort.
The reason we had booked Rocha Brava Village Resort was that slightly away from Carvoeiro’s busy area and super close to the stunning Vale de Centeanes beach, from where the Seven Hanging Valleys trial starts.
Best lunch bench in Algarve, Carvoeiro, Portugal
At the start of the trail, there’s a spot that’s marked on Google Maps as the “Best lunch bench in Algarve”, which is actually inside Rocha Brava village resort.
There were a few swimming pools, hot tubs, sports centers, restaurants, bars, and supermarkets, inside Rocha Brava Village resort and it made it perfect for families.
So, if I ever go back to Carvoeiro again with my family, I will book this same place.
Where to Eat in Carvoeiro Algarve
Because we had an entire apartment with a kitchen, we cooked some of our own meals ourselves, but we made it a point to at least eat one meal outside.
Portugal is one of those places where I enjoy every single meal because they don’t shy away from cooking with flavor. They can be bigger restaurants or even simple home-run kitchens but the freshness of ingredients, herbs, etc ensure a good experience.
Below are the restaurants that I recommend:
Boneca Bar
Boneca Bar at “A Boneca” cave entry
Boneca Bar is right at the entry of “A Boneca” cave in the Algar Seco cave walk area. So, the best part of this restaurant/bar is the location. If you are going to watch the sunset at Algar Seco cave walk, then eating dinner here with a glass of wine makes a lot of sense to save time.
Order grilled fresh fish, house wine, and calamari rings, and enjoy a nice meal here. But be prepared to spend because this is a high-end place.
Pashmina
Meal at Pashmina restaurant in Carvoeiro Algarve, Portugal
I just did an Indian thing and recommended an Indian restaurant. I had a madras-style prawn curry with tandoori roti and it totally hit the spot.
Marinha Beach Snack Bar
Prawns at Marinha Snack Bar
This was so good that we went back for another mean. I ordered a big plate of prawns and I loved them because they were perfectly herby and delicious.
Closing Thoughts about Carvoeiro Algarve, Portugal
Trust me when I say this, when a destination is enough to bring me back to the same region year after year, then you should take my word for it and travel to it.
Unlike many other parts of Europe, Carvoeiro is still not busy and one can truly enjoy a summer vacation here with beaches, good food, and amazing hikes.
FAQs about traveling to Carvoeiro Algarve, Portugal
What is the nicest part of the Algarve?
Having visited the Algarve twice, I’d say the nicest part is Carvoeiro because it has a lot of lovely places to visit and some amazing places nearby. Apart from the beaches, the stunning Algar Seco Caves are right here and the Seven Hanging Valleys trail also begins in Carvoeiro. Just nearby are the Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach.
Should I stay in Carvoeiro Portugal?
Yes, Carvoeiro is an excellent base for exploring the Algarve because some of the best places to visit are right here or nearby. One can find amazing resorts, villas, and apartments to stay in Carvoeiro.
Is Carvoeiro Portugal worth visiting?
Yes, definitely. This is my favorite place in the Algarve and shouldn’t be missed. If you don’t have much time, then miss places like Portimao or Albufeira but don’t skip Carvoeiro.
What is the most luxurious part of the Algarve?
It is Carvoeiro. But if you are a budget traveler, don’t let that discourage you because I was able to find amazing mid-range rooms. I booked an entire apartment for around EUR 100 per day for two and cooked two meals there, so we ended up saving money.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Traveling to the Netherlands and wondering if Haarlem is worth visiting? This post is for you.
I have posted often about Amsterdam, but it’s time to talk about Haarlem.
Haarlem is right next to Amsterdam and has pretty much everything that Amsterdam is famous for. Canals, narrow houses, romantic bridges, hofjes (Dutch courtyards), museums, and lovely nightlife. There’s also a historical windmill next to the water.
Planning a last-minute trip to Haarlem? I’ve got you covered. Below is a quick list of essential tours and my hotel recommendations:
Hello, I’m Local: This is a boutique hotel and hostel that’s in a pretty part of Haarlem near the canals. The atmosphere is amazing and will suit solo travelers, couples, and friends. I wouldn’t recommend this for families with small children.
Carlton Square Hotel: This is a perfect place to book if you’re with your family or if you are traveling for work. The rooms have a desk and there are also conference rooms. The breakfast here is amazing.
Table of Contents
Canals, Narrow Houses, Bridges – Haarlem has it all
Canals, narrow houses, bicycles, and bridges – Haarlem, not Amsterdam
Amsterdam isn’t the only city in the Netherlands with canals, narrow houses, and cute bridges. Haarlem has them too!
The reason why I visit Amsterdam over and over again is because of these things and they make the city so pretty.
Now don’t get me wrong – both Amsterdam and Haarlem are good in their own way. Amsterdam’s canal ring is bigger and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so is unmissable. But Haarlem’s canals are like Amsterdam’s too in many ways.
So, is Haarlem worth visiting? Hopefully, this section answers that question to some extent.
Haarlem is Walkable
Walking in Haarlem is easy
How amazing are the travel destinations where you can easily walk from one place to another and explore everything on foot? Haarlem is one of those places.
Haarlem is tiny, so you can easily reach from one point of interest to another by foot. This is because most of the famous things to do in Haarlem are close to each other.
Haarlem is Walkable – walking to the city square
For slightly longer distances, you can get on a rental bicycle but I didn’t need one because I didn’t mind a 2-kilometer walk along the canals.
This ease of travel made my solo time in Haarlem an amazing experience.
Scared of Riding a Bicycle in Amsterdam? Haarlem is easier
Cycling in Haarlemmermeer
So what’s the best way of exploring Dutch cities and countryside? Of course on a bicycle. I get it, there are some parts of the world where cycling isn’t the most common way of commuting. If that’s the case then cycling in Amsterdam may be a scary thought for you.
I have news for you – cycling in Haarlem is easier than in Amsterdam because of the low crowds.
The first time I moved to Europe, I was cycling after 15 years! On my first visit to Amsterdam, I couldn’t even imagine I’d ride a bicycle there. I did eventually do that on my third visit because I now cycle everyday in Germany
If you are nervous about cycling, in Amsterdam then Haarlem is the perfect place to start. We cycled from Haarlem to Zandvoort, and then to a lovely cycling path that goes near the MH17 memorial and the Schiphol Airport. Here’s our cycling itinerary for exploring Haarlem and around.
Haarlem also has a Windmill – De Adriaan
Windmill De Adriaan in Haarlem
One of the first images that comes to my mind when I think of the Netherlands is an old-school windmill. Haarlem has one and is along the RiverSpaarne.
Haarlem’s windmill is called “De Adriaan” and dates back to 1779. It is an iconic sight and looks lovely in Haarlem’s skyline. I loved walking along the River Spaarne and photographing the windmill.
Windmill De Adriaan was destroyed by a fire in 1932. The locals collected money and paid for the rebuilding of the windmill, but it didn’t work out. This windmill reopened 70 years after the fire in 2002.
Although Windmill De Adriaan is fully functional as a mill, it now functions as a tourist attraction with a museum inside.
Restaurant Zuidam along Windmill De Adriaan, Haarlem
I’m not the kinds to visit museums but a nice way to enjoy the beauty of Windmill de Adriaan is by sitting in the restaurant next to it – Restaurant Zuidam and enjoying a drink or two with the view. I did this too!
Haarlem has a Fun Nightlife
DeDAKKAS in Haarlem – cocktails with a view
We all know already that Amsterdam has a fun nightlife, but I was pleasantly surprised to experience Haarlem’s pub scene.
Firstly, there’s the rooftop bar that’s almost hidden because it is on top of a parking garage. It is called DeDAKKAS, where you can enjoy a few cocktails as you watch the view of the entire Haarlem town and a spectacular sunset.
DeDakkas was actually recommended to me by a local resident and I absolutely enjoyed it for my post-dinner drinks.
Drinks at La Plume, Haarlem
After that, walk to the old town area Grote Markt to Oude Groenmarkt. It is dotted with bars and brown pubs, so you can just go from one place to another and enjoy a drink. We went to a place called La Plume, which is right next to the church.
Affordable Compared to Amsterdam
Let’s be honest. This region in Western Europe – Germany, France, and the Netherlands isn’t affordable at all. But the bigger cities like Amsterdam are so expensive and in comparison, the smaller towns like Haarlem are a tad cheaper.
It is especially true in peak summer when everyone who lives near and in Holland wants to go to Zandvoort beach and an insane amount of international visitors start their Euro trips in Amsterdam.
So, this is a reason why I suggested Haarlem as a base for exploring Amsterdam and Zandvoort – because you can usually find cheaper rooms here in comparison. Zandvoort and Amsterdam are more expensive than Haarlem.
Perfect Base for visiting Amsterdam and Zandvoort Beach
Now it is likely that you will read blog posts that suggest Haarlem as a perfect day trip from Amsterdam, but I suggest you pick Haarlem as your base so that you can explore Amsterdam and the Zandvoort beach.
Amsterdam Centraal is just a 20-minute train ride away from Haarlem. Haarlem has cheaper rooms than Amsterdam so it makes sense to pick Haarlem as your base.
Zandvoort Beach near Haarlem
If you visit in summer, then you can cycle to Zandvoort Beach from Haarlem, which is also sometimes called Amsterdam Beach. It is just 30 minutes by bicycle. You can also take the train from Haarlem and arrive in Zandvoort in just 10 minutes.
Haarlem is in the middle of Amsterdam and Zandvoort, so it makes sense to stay here when you want a fun summer holiday that has a good mix of city break, beach, and small-town feels.
Haarlem’s Food Scene is Amazing
In my opinion, when a city has a good mix of regional and international cuisine then it has a good food scene.
Delicious Meat Pastries at Little Jamaica Bistro Haarlem
Exactly for this reason, I found Haarlem’s food scene to be amazing. Now this isn’t a case of Amsterdam vs Haarlem because Amsterdam definitely has an exceptional food scene.
Let me tell you about some notable meals that I had in Haarlem.
Little Jamaica Bistro – amazing authentic Jamaican food will hearty portions. Try the jerk chicken, beef patties, spicy curried goat, and rum punch. The overall atmosphere is like none other and is enough to make me come back to Haarlem.
First Course at Restaurant Dane in Haarlem
Restaurant Dane – a high-end restaurant with exquisite food plating and inventive flavors. Each dish was a work of art with a blend of flavors that combined the traditional with the unusual.
Cold Coffee with Caramel at Crêpe Affaire Haarlem
Crêpe Affaire – an easy-to-visit casual cafe for Dutch-style pancakes, waffles, caramel-y coffee, and cheesy things.
Restaurant Parck – a slightly formal restaurant with fusion food. I had Thai soup and a spicy chicken sandwich here.
Haarlem isn’t Crowded
Haarlem isn’t Crowded – The Netherlands
Imagine Amsterdam without the crowds – yes that’s what Haarlem is like. I could finally click as many canal photos as I wanted without people, find empty benches to sit on with a view next to the water and get a table in lively restaurants or bars.
In this age of overtourism, it is definitely nice to find a place like Haarlem that’s pretty and doesn’t feel crowded.
Perfect for Families
Children playing in Haarlem’s old town square
I have traveled to Amsterdam a gazillion times and once even with my daughter. The crowded city center isn’t easy for small children. Even though we avoid the center, at times one needs to cross it.
On the other hand, I felt that Haarlem had a super relaxed vibe that made it perfect for families with small children.
Haarlem is the perfect family destination
Exactly for those reasons, Haarlem is easy for also solo travelers and couples. But it is a bit more suited for families with small children as compared to Amsterdam because I’d want to keep my kid away from the Red Light District, sex shops, head shops, and joint smoking tourists. A few are ok but a concentration of them (like in the De Wallen area of Amsterdam) is a bit too much.
Even though I was traveling solo in Haarlem, I saw a lot of German families with small children here and that’s when I decided to revisit with my family too.
So, is Haarlem Worth Visiting?
is Haarlem Worth Visiting?
The simple answer is if you are visiting the Netherlands with your children, then you can skip Amsterdam and visit Haarlem directly.
Another instance where you can skip Amsterdam and stay in Haarlem instead is if you are traveling in the summer. That’s when staying in Haarlem makes a lot of sense because the Zandvoort beach is so close to it.
Me in Haarlem, the Netherlands
Moreover, if you are looking for a base to start a road trip in the Netherlands, then I suggest Haarlem over Amsterdam, mainly because the parking costs in Amsterdam are beyond crazy. Moreover driving routes are limited in Amsterdam because it seems the government is slowly phasing out cars.
On the other hand, if you are traveling without small children and have never visited Amsterdam, then you can spend at least one day there (or two or three) and leave Haarlem for another day or a separate visit.
Having visited Amsterdam often, below are my highly rated Amsterdam city guides for you to bookmark.
Did you know the Schiphol Airport is closer to Haarlem than Amsterdam?
Cycling behind Schiphol Airport from Haarlem
If you arrive in the Netherlands by air, then most likely you will land at the Schiphol Airport, which is also called “Schiphol Amsterdam Airport”. Guess what, it is closer to Haarlem than to Amsterdam by road – only slightly.
So, Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station is 23 Kilometers by car, but to Haarlem Station is 19 kilometers. Actually, this is because the roadway is longer but if you look at the direct bicycle way, then Amsterdam is closer – but no one goes on a bicycle to the Airport with a suitcase, am I right?
Disclosure: I collaborated with the I Amsterdam (Amsterdam city tourism board) for a part of my visit to Haarlem. However, all opinions expressed in this article are definitely our own.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
I have said it before and I will say it over and over again – I absolutely love Lisbon. It is super pretty, warm, unique, and has the cutest public transport (Ola Tram 28) and amazing food & drink scene.
Lisbon’s warmth kept me bringing back to Portugal and I have done now five trips to this amazing country.
Moreover, Lisbon photographs really well because it is built on nine hills. To make things better, there are pastel-colored houses with sometimes grandmas peeping out from the windows. Especially if you’re in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
Exploring Lisbon’s pretty streets with pastel houses
Lisbon’s prettiest streets are sloped and the adorable yellow tram 28 makes its way at a slow pace. The city has endless viewpoints so if you’re a sucker for views then you will absolutely go crazy like I did.
I did a lot of research to optimize my four to three days in Lisbon to hunt for the best photo spots so that I can write this list and make it easy for you. Also, some photo spots mentioned on the internet and on Google Maps weren’t good enough so I didn’t include them.
So, this is a curated list of photo spots that aren’t far away from each other, so you don’t have to make so much effort. This is why my Instagram location guides are so famous!
Lisbon Instagram Spots
Table of Contents
1) Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro de Santa Luzia – Lisbon Instagram spots
Ever seen pictures of Alfama’s pastel houses from an observation deck that’s covered with Bougainvillea? That’s Miradouro de Santa Luzia – perhaps the best viewpoint in Lisbon.
There is a sitting area and loads of pillars. The walking area in the middle has a nice arch, so the photo possibilities here are many. Not just Alfama but you can also see the Tagus River from here.
The best part is that the sitting area is curved, so you can get a slightly different view from each opening.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia viewpoint in Lisbon
Because it is so good, it is usually crowded at sunset time. But hey, the best time to visit this is actually sunrise because this spot faces the East.
For me, Miradouro de Santa Luzia is really the best Instagram spot in Lisbon because one can easily include not just the landscape but also a person in a perfect 5 x 4 photo frame.
If you are like me and can’t wake up early enough to catch the sunrise, don’t worry and just come here at sunset time. You will eventually find a nice spot to sit as you enjoy the view.
2) Portas do Sol
Portas do Sol – Instagram spots in Lisbon Portugal
Guess what, Portas do Sol is just 70 meters away from the first viewpoint, Miradouro de Santa Luzia. It is literally one floor above but the experience is different.
Portas do Sol is more open and there are plenty of options to grab a bench and find uninterrupted spots for photos without people.
The best part is that there’s even a bar here so you can sip your cocktail or beer and spend a few hours here like we did.
Portas do Sol – viewpoint in Lisbon Portugal
This way not only you have some amazing pictures but also an amazing evening as you watch the beauty of Lisbon during the golden hour and then the purple hour and eventually as the sky gets dark.
We ordered Caipirinha cocktails here and they were very enjoyable.
3) Rua da Bica / Elevador da Bica / Bica Funicular
Elevador da Bica with tram 28 – Lisbon, Portugal
Do you have a thing for pretty streets? Lisbon has many of them but this is definitely the best.
Rua da Bica is a super pretty narrow street that’s heavily slanted. There are pastel houses on each side. Cars can’t go in, because there are only tram tracks and sidewalks – the result is breathtaking.
Elevador da Bica Lisbon Portugal
If you are looking for a spot to photograph the adorable yellow tram 28, then this street is actually the best spot because there are no cars and the slant creates interesting possibilities. Yes, it is a famous Lisbon Instagram spot and is worth all the hype.
Bica Funicular Lisbon Portugal
When I visited this street with my friend, there were a bunch of people photographing the slow-moving yellow trams as they went up and down the Elevador da Bica. That’s when we realized that the real celebrity of Lisboa is not any person but Tram 28. Wherever it goes, the paparazzi follow it.
4) Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge / Saint George’s Castle Church Tower
Saint George’s Castle Church Tower, Lisbon Portugal
Can I tell you about a Lisbon travel hack? One of the most famous places to visit in Lisboa is Castelo de São Jorge – or Saint George’s Castle.
The line to enter the S. Jorge castle is always long and the entry fee is EUR 15 per person. But, you can just skip the castle, walk for a few hundred meters, and then you will reach Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge. Surprise – no line and just EUR 5 entry fee.
I have visited Lisbon twice – in 2016 and 2023. I couldn’t see Saint George’s Castle the first time because of the line, and then I was disappointed when the line was even longer on my second trip to Lisbon.
Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge, Lisboa instagram spots
Thankfully I just crossed the line and kept walking to photograph the streets but I saw a sign to enter the church tower of Saint George’s Castle. I was so happy because my main reason to visit Castelo de São Jorge was to see the view from the top.
So I paid EUR 5, which also included a free drink of my choice. A glass of port wine later, I climbed up the spiral steps of the tower and I was standing next to a giant bell.
5) Miradouro da Graça
Sunset time at Miradouro da Graça, Lisbon
At first, all the viewpoints in or near Alfama appear to be the same but if you look closely, there’s something different about each one of them.
Technically, it isn’t in Alfama but in Graça. This viewpoint is near the Church of Our Lady of Grace, super close to Alfama.
The lovely Miradouro da Graça, Lisbon
I loved Miradouro da Graça because it is quieter than the first two viewpoints that I have mentioned on this list. Also, it is a bit higher than the others so one can also see the Castle up close.
You have to climb up a lot of steps to reach Miradouro da Graça, but it is so worth it because the walls around the steps are covered in graffiti and even from there you can see the view! (there are two entry staircases for Miradouro da Graça and they are both different)
Steps for Miradouro da Graça, Lisbon
The best part is that it isn’t as crowded as Miradouro de Santa Luzia or Portas do Sol. There is also a bar/cafe here on top. There’s the garden Jardim da Cerca da Graça right next to the viewpoints that also has a public toilet which was surprisingly clean.
Steps going up to Miradouro da Graça, Lisbon
There’s an artist that sits next to this viewpoint and I ended up buying a lovely painting of a street in Lisbon from here.
Graça viewpoint is amazing during sunset too, so make sure you make the most of your visit and not miss the golden hour here.
6) Pink Street
Lisbon’s Pink Street – Photo spots in Lisbon
We all can agree on one thing by now – Lisbon is super pretty. But there’s more. This pastel city also has a Pink Street!
I will be honest – I like Lisbon’s traditional areas so much that for me Pink Street wasn’t so special. It is just a street that’s for restaurants and nightlife and is dotted with bars.
Pink Street with Umbrellas – Instagram spots in Lisbon
But I did realize that a few of my pictures on the pINK street turned out to be amazing.
There’s a historical arc – Arcos do Marquês that goes over the end of the Pink Street and I made my friend stand under it and clicked a few pictures. They turned out really well.
7) Santuário de Cristo Rei
The view from Christo Rei in Lisbon
There is a big statue of Jesus Christ that overlooks Lisbon from the other side of the Tagus River.
If you go there, you can also ride the elevator that goes on top and see how it looks from there. The elevator closes at 6 pm (thankfully we were there at 5:45 pm!).
Christo Rei in Lisbon
The funny thing is, that this sort of reminded me of Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
And from here you can see the nearby Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. It looks just like the Golden Gate Bridge of San Fransisco. So, if you are standing at this spot, it is funny to notice how Lisbon looks like different places in different directions.
After a while, you can also walk around the garden in this area.
Wait, what – another viewpoint? Yes, because some of the best photographs one can make in Lisbon are of views and streets.
Miradouro do Recolhimento is one of the lesser visited viewpoints because it is actually a children’s park! There are a few benches and a nice sitting area that faces the view and it is a really nice view.
Miradouro do Recolhimento – Lisboa Insta spots
What’s so special about Miradouro do Recolhimento is that it is higher. As a result, you can see more of the water of the Tagus River. Moreover, there are multiple spots from where you can look down, so there are more possibilities to capture unique photos.
There is also a hexagonal sitting frame where one can sit and pose for a photo. I was alone so I only clicked selfies here!
Selfie at Miradouro do Recolhimento Lisbon, Portugal
Miradouro do Recolhimento is close to Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge, and I just found it by chance. I was lured in by the nice smelling lavender bush that’s in this park and I also found a few lemon trees.
Calçada da Graça is a pretty street that’s slanted down. You can see the blue water at the end of the street.
Calçada da Graça is close to the Graça viewpoint. Get out from there and walk to the street called Calçada da Graça and keep walking towards the direction of the water.
Calçada da Graça Lisbon Portugal
The street gets prettier because suddenly you will see bright pastel houses all together – yellow, pink, and blue and they are all slanted. You can click the houses along the slanted street or also the view of the street with water at the end.
10) Ler Devagar Book Store in LX Factory
Ler Devagar Book Store in LX Factory – Lisbon Instagram spots
There’s something about pictures clicked in bookstores. They usually blow up on Instagram because people love them.
It happened with the pictures of Carturesti Carusel in Bucharest, and then Livraria Lello in Porto, and it started in the summer of 2023 with Ler Devagar Book Store in LX Factory. But still, this place wasn’t as crowded as the Lello Bookstore in Porto (thank god) and it was actually a very good experience spending an hour here.
Not only books but Ler Devagar also has old records, art, and a printing press on the top floor.
11) Rossio Square
One of the streets opening into Rossio Square, Lisbon, Portugal
I liked photographing the different sides of Rossio Square much more than the nearby Praça do Comércio and Arco da Rua Augusta.
If you like playing with geometry in your shots, then the paint pattern on the road and the slanted streets give amazing results.
Rossio Square, Lisbon IG Spots
Rossio Square is big and the streets nearby are fun to photograph as they open into the square. There is also a water fountain in the middle and more statues everywhere.
Geometrical flooring at Rossio Square Lisbon
There are tuk-tuks around, trams, and interesting roadside stands. There is also a Ginjinha stall (Portuguese sour cherry liqueur) where you can have a shot for a euro. Yes, we had more than one each!
There are yellow buildings on each side of the Augusta Arc, and with the background of blue sea water, this spot looks good even when it is crowded, which it usually is.
This entire area is full of tourists and it has high-end restaurants on both sides of the road. The historic bakery Fábrica da Nata is also here on this street where you can eat the famous creamy custard tarts of Portugal – Pastel de Nata. Honestly, they taste good in also the smaller bakeries.
Fábrica da Nata in Lisbon, Portugal
The walking promenade also has an arched ceiling, so you can click some really awesome photos if you have time.
Arco da Rua Augusta & Praça do Comércio Lisbon
I don’t have one of me standing here because I didn’t want to ask my friend after every 10 steps to click a photo of me, because Lisbon is really such kind of a place where there’s one Instagram spot after another.
13) Terreiro do Paço
Terreiro do Paço – IG Spots in Lisbon Portugal
Terreiro do Paço is a ferry terminal and is elegantly designed. It has giant arched windows and from them, you can see the water.
Inside and outside, every aspect of the Terreiro do Paço building is designed in a beautiful way without being overly “frilly”. You can also sit outside as you face the Taugus River and soak in the sun.
Inside Terreiro do Paço ferry terminal Lisbon
It is a nice place to escape the crowds or the heat after walking in Lisboa. There is also a nice bar in Terreiro do Paço building and it is obviously stunning.
We actually just entered this building to use the toilet but we ended up spending a while here because it is lovely. After my visit, I was curious about this spot so I opened Google Maps and was surprised to see similar thoughts like mine reflected back by other travelers who were impressed with this place.
14) Rua de Santa Justa
Santa Justa lift – Rua de Santa Justa Baixa Lisbon via Unsplash
Rua de Santa Justa is a pretty street in Baixa, that’s iconic because of the view of the historical Elevador De Santa Justa.
I’m not asking you to go up on the Santa Justa lift, but to admire the view of this Neo-Gothic lift tower from the street because it looks lovely.
In order to go up, you have to stand in a long line, and Lisbon already has so many viewpoints that it doesn’t make sense to stand in such a long line for one.
Rua de Santa Justa in Baixa, Lisbon
You can visit the area upstairs without the lift too if you walk up the steps behind the monastery. Also, the main thing here to photograph is the tower itself, which you cant do when you are up on it, right?
Elevador De Santa Justa was designed in the 1900s so that the residents of Lisboa could move from Baixa to Chaiado. The cost per person is EUR 5.60 in 2023.
15) Ponto Final, Almada
Ponto Final Restaurant in Lisbon – top Instagram spots via Pixabay
Ponto Final was made famous by Phil of “Somebody Feed Phil“, a Netflix travel series because he had an epic meal with a view here.
After that, this restaurant blew up on Instagram too.
Ponto Final is across the river on the other side of Lisbon, so you have to take a ferry to reach just like visiting Christo Rei statue. Because this restaurant faces West, it is an amazing spot to enjoy the sunset in Lisbon.
There are two restaurants by the name of Ponto Final, so you have to look for the one in Almada. It is closed on Tuesday so keep that in mind before you plan your visit.
Overall thoughts about Lisbon Instagram Spots
Lisbon has many historical landmarks, streets, and viewpoints – but I have included just 15 of the best spots which I think are the best for the purpose of photography. I haven’t included places like the Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, etc.
I haven’t included Sintra because that’s outside of Lisbon and that’s a day trip away.
PS: Drifter Planet contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a little commission at no extra cost to you. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Namaste, Guten Tag!
I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travel adventures since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with my husband & our toddler).
I love nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I love creating itineraries and in-depth travel guides which will help you make the most of your trip.