Things To Do
in Matosinhos

Whole sea bass simply grilled and served with potatoes or salad; widely available at waterfront marisqueiras.

Must-Try!

A rich, shellfish rice similar to risotto, made with clams, prawns, and sometimes lobster—best at traditional seafood restaurants.

Roasted octopus served with potatoes and lots of olive oil and garlic; a Portuguese classic found at many Matosinhos eateries.

Cod prepared in various ways—crumbled with potatoes and eggs or fried into cod fritters, available in cafés and tascas.

A lively market with fresh fish stalls, local produce, and small vendors where you can taste fresh seafood and buy regional ingredients.

Occasional pop-ups and food trucks near the waterfront serving snacks like bifanas (pork sandwiches), pregos, and fried fish depending on events and the weekend crowd.

A handshake is common for first meetings; friends may exchange two light kisses on the cheeks (starting on the left). Use formal titles (Senhor/Senhora) if unsure.

Keep your hands on the table (not in your lap) and wait for the host to start eating; it's polite to compliment the food and try local specialties.

Respect lines and personal space; Portuguese people are generally polite and reserved—use 'por favor' and 'obrigado/a' regularly.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid loud behavior in residential neighborhoods, especially at night.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for attentive table service is common in restaurants; cafés and bars usually expect no tip or small change.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted (contactless common). Carry some euros in cash for small shops, markets, or very small cafés. ATMs are plentiful and banks are easily accessible.

Mild temperatures and fewer tourists—flowers and green dunes make it ideal for walks and early-season surfing; occasional rain showers possible.

Warm, sunny weather with peak beach activity and surf lessons; expect crowds on weekends, busy restaurants, and a lively promenade atmosphere.

Comfortable temperatures with consistent Atlantic swells—great for surfing and seafood season; quieter than summer but still pleasant for outdoor activities.

Cool, wet, and windy at times with fewer tourists—surfing continues (cold-water gear needed), and some restaurants reduce hours; good time for architecture and city visits without crowds.

A long, mostly flat coastal path ideal for walking and cycling that links Matosinhos with neighboring beaches and scenic points along the shore.

Protected coastal park north of Matosinhos with dune systems, birdwatching opportunities, and quieter trails through natural habitats.

Short coastal trails and promenades around the Leça cliffs offering dramatic ocean views and accessible shore-side walks.

Portugal’s largest national park about 1.5–2 hours away by car—offers rugged mountain trails, waterfalls, and remote hiking for full-day or overnight trips.

Long-term inhabitants including fishermen, families, and local business owners who maintain strong community ties.

Proximity to Porto attracts students and younger workers who commute for study and employment, adding youthful energy.

A visible community of surfers and beach sports lovers who gather at the shoreline year-round.

A growing but smaller expat and tourist population compared to Porto, often concentrated around hospitality and cultural sectors.