Things To Do
in Portugal
Portugal is a southwestern European country known for its long Atlantic coastline, rich maritime history, and the influence it had during the Age of Discoveries when it established a vast overseas empire. Its landscapes range from the vineyards of the Douro Valley and the beaches of the Algarve to the historic cities of Lisbon and Porto, each offering distinctive architecture, music, and cuisine.
Renowned for its warm Mediterranean climate, Portugal boasts a diverse cultural heritage, blending traditional folk arts with modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers and a proud nation with a deep historical legacy.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Enjoy a delicious pastéis de nata at a nearby café.
Stroll through the historic Alfama district, where you can explore narrow streets and local shops. Don't miss the chance to visit the Lisbon Cathedral.
Savor a traditional Portuguese dinner in Bairro Alto, followed by live Fado music. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lisbon with trendy bars and clubs.
Catch a train to Sintra and visit the colorful Pena Palace, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the gardens and take in the whimsical architecture.
Head to the Quinta da Regaleira and discover its enchanting gardens and initiation well. Enjoy lunch at a local tavern, savoring regional dishes.
Return to Lisbon and relax with a sunset view at a miradouro. End your night with a leisurely walk along the Tagus River.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful landscapes and scenery, including beaches, mountains, and vineyards.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Mild climate, especially in coastal areas, making it an attractive destination year-round.
- Delicious cuisine, known for dishes like bacalhau and pastéis de nata.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Western European countries.
- Welcoming and friendly locals, making it easy for expatriates and tourists to feel at home.
- A growing tech scene and opportunities for remote work and digital nomadism.
- Bureaucracy can be slow and cumbersome, especially for expats trying to navigate legalities.
- Public transport can be limited in rural areas, making a car necessary.
- Economic challenges and unemployment rates are higher than in some Western European countries.
- Language barrier, as not everyone speaks English fluently, particularly in rural regions.
- Summer tourist crowds, leading to busier attractions and higher prices during peak seasons.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, depending on qualifications and skills.
Best Activities in Portugal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna of the only national park in Portugal.
Enjoy world-class waves and beautiful beaches along the southern coast of Portugal, known for its great surfing conditions.
Indulge in Portugal's famous port wine while taking in the breathtaking terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley.
Tours
Uncover the best of Portugal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Portugal
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning coastal rock formations and turquoise waters in Lagos, Algarve region.
Picturesque wine region with terraced vineyards and river views.
Colorful hilltop castle with panoramic views in Sintra near Lisbon.
Wild and rugged coastal scenery perfect for sunset photos.
Food in Portugal
Portugal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A renowned Portuguese dish made with salted cod, eggs, onions, and matchstick potatoes, seasoned with parsley and black olives. It's a must-try and can be found in traditional taverns and family-run restaurants throughout Portugal.
Must-Try!
A hearty sandwich originating from Porto, consisting of layers of bread, cured ham, linguiça, fresh sausage, and steak, covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick beer and tomato sauce. Several eateries in Porto, particularly the historic cafes, offer excellent versions of this dish.
These custard tarts are an iconic Portuguese treat, characterized by flaky pastry and a creamy, caramelized egg custard filling. The most famous spot to indulge in these delightful pastries is at Antiga Confeitaria de Belém in Lisbon.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Portugal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Lisbon, this bustling food market offers an array of gourmet stalls, showcasing traditional Portuguese delicacies alongside modern creations. It's a perfect place to savor various street food delights and local specialties.
Exploring the food scene through a guided food tour in Porto is a fantastic way to sample authentic local street food, from bifana (pork sandwich) to bolinhos de bacalhau (codfish cakes) from renowned food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Portugal, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks, depending on the level of familiarity. It's important to use polite language and titles, especially when addressing older people or those in positions of authority.
Mealtime is taken seriously in Portugal, and it's important to respect local customs. For example, it's common to wait until the host signals to start eating, and it's polite to try a bit of everything that is served, even if you don't like it.
Portuguese people generally value personal space and can be more reserved in public settings. It's important to respect this by giving others physical space and avoiding loud or intrusive behavior in public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Portugal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Portugal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Portugal, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also customary, but not obligatory.
In Portugal, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It is important to note that some smaller establishments may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry some euros when traveling in Portugal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Portugal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and lively festivals make spring a great time to visit Portugal.
Warm and dry weather, perfect for beach lovers and outdoor activities. Many cultural events and music festivals also take place during this time.
Mild weather, fewer crowds, and the grape harvest season, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts. It's also a great time for hiking and exploring the countryside.
Mild temperatures in the southern regions, while the northern regions experience cooler weather. Christmas markets and seasonal festivities add charm to the cities.
Portugal at Night
Hiking in Portugal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located on São Miguel Island in the Azores, Pico da Pedra offers scenic trails with stunning views of the island's lush landscapes and volcanic craters.
An extensive network of walking trails along the Alentejo and Algarve coasts, Rota Vicentina features dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches.
Portugal's highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela offers various hiking trails with breathtaking views, unique glacial valleys, and diverse flora and fauna.
This stunning national park in the north of Portugal features incredible hiking paths through mountains, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
Known for its picturesque landscapes, this park offers trails that connect historic sites, lush forests, and stunning coastal views around Sintra.
Located near Setúbal, this park features hiking trails through limestone hills with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby beaches.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Portugal through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Portugal by plane.
The main international airport serving Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal.
Also known as Porto Airport, it serves the city of Porto and is one of the busiest airports in Portugal.
This is the main airport serving the Algarve region of southern Portugal.
Also known as Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, it serves the island of Madeira.
The main airport serving the Azores archipelago in Portugal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, predominantly of European descent, forming the majority of the population.
Includes communities from former Portuguese colonies such as Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau.
A significant group due to historical ties, with many Brazilians residing and working in Portugal.
A small but established community with a unique culture and history in Portugal.
Includes smaller communities from countries like China, India, and other Asian nations.
Includes various nationalities from across Europe, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Portugal
Discover the essence of Portugal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Portugal, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. The country is home to prestigious clubs like FC Porto, SL Benfica, and Sporting CP, and has produced renowned players such as Cristiano Ronaldo.
Futsal, a variant of football played on a smaller field and mainly indoors, is also extremely popular in Portugal. The national futsal team has achieved significant success in international competitions.
Basketball has a strong following in Portugal, with many local and national leagues. The national team has had some success in European competitions.
Volleyball is widely played in Portugal, both at the amateur and professional levels, with championships for both men and women.
Rugby is growing in popularity in Portugal, with an increase in clubs and participation at youth and senior levels. The national team competes in various international tournaments.
Athletics is a popular sport in Portugal, particularly in areas such as marathon running and track and field events, producing athletes who compete at high levels globally.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Portuguese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes now cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering innovative plant-based dishes. In urban areas like Lisbon and Porto, there are numerous establishments specifically dedicated to vegetarian and vegan fare.
In response to the increasing demand for gluten-free options, a growing number of restaurants and cafes in Portugal provide gluten-free alternatives and are mindful of accommodating dietary restrictions. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to staff, who are generally receptive and accommodating.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Portugal with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Portugal.