After the first Council of Ministers dedicated to the Digital Transformation and Modernization, the Portuguese Minister of Youth and Modernization announced that foreign citizens will soon have a place dedicated to the attribution of the required Portuguese social numbers.
According to the head of the new Ministry, Margarida Balseiro Lopes, this was 1 of the 15 measures approved at the council meeting at the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the Nova University of Lisbon in Almada.
In her words, “We know that tax, social security, and citizenship services face long queues…and we have thousands of foreign citizens living in Portugal who do not have access to something as basic as a tax identification number, the social security number, or the health user number.”
In response, by the last trimester of 2024, the Citizen’s Spaces (Espaços Cidadão – the public service that exists within the Citizen’s Shops (Lojas do Cidadão) and gathers the services provided by different public entities) will also be the place where foreign citizens can get their tax, social security, and health care numbers.
Apart from helping foreign citizens, this measure will also remove some pressure from the public workers that work at the respective entities, as well as reduce a bit of the bureaucracy required when moving to Portugal.
Note that this project will be implemented by AMA (Agency for Administrative Modernization) and AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum).
According to the Report on the Relocation of Families published by the health insurance company, William Russell, Portugal is the best country in the world to live as a family.
Note that the report relies on data retrieved from sources such as the OECD, Numbeo, and TripAdvisor, among others, and considers a total of 11 factors, in order to provide a classification from 1 to 10 to each evaluated country, and build a ranking according to those classifications.
The factors considered included paid maternity, parental, and home care leave; the average number of hours worked per year; the number of attractions for children per 100,000 inhabitants; prices of childcare services; and the average monthly cost of utilities.
Portugal did well in all of the factors considered, but it really stood out in the financial categories, resulting in a total overall score of 6.33 out of 10.
The best and worst countries to live in as a family, according to the relocation report, are as follows:
The lucky winner from last week’s euromillions’ draw bought his ticket in Algés on the western side of Lisbon.
Euromillions is Europe’s largest rolling-jackpot lottery game and requires seven correct numbers consisting of five main numbers (from 1 to 50) and two lucky star numbers (from 1 to 12) to win the jackpot.
There are two draws per week – one on Tuesday and one on Friday. Last week, a Portuguese player won the top prize of the week’s second draw. However, there was another winner in France, so the two winner will have to split the pot of As the odds of someone winning the jackpot are 1 in 139,838,160, the fact that there were two winners is astonishing.
With the top jackpot prize of 53 million euros for the draw in question, each winner will take home 26.5 million euros. However, for the Portuguese winner, national law mandates that prizes greater than 5,000 euros are subject to a tax rate of 20%. The Portuguese state will receive just over 5.2 million euros from this grand prize draw, and the Algés winner will take home just under 21 million euros.
Before we compare the difference in costs and experience between going to university in the USA vs. Portugal, I want to briefly mention that all names here have been changed to protect the family’s privacy, but the financial amounts are as close to accurate as we could estimate.
The Current Reality of University Costs in the United States
Any American family preparing to send their children to college these days in the United States knows that costs have skyrocketed in the last 20 years. If prospective students are lucky, they will be eligible for some kind of scholarship. However, if you fall somewhere in the middle or don’t qualify for scholarships due to grades, you are looking at least $10,000 dollars per year for a minimum of four years (which nowadays usually stretches to five years) to receive a Bachelor’s degree. This $10,000 per year only covers tuition alone and is on the low side these days in terms of college tuition for public universities. If you add in books, miscellaneous fees, a meal plan, and the estimated costs of living at home with your parents, this price quickly doubles.
Graduation, Rut Miit, Unsplash
The estimated $20,000 per year to attend an average American university while living at home with your parents also assumes that you go to an in-state college. The price can quickly double again if you go to an out of state university (an average price of $40,000 per year). Add in the cost of having a car on campus, paying to park it, and the costs of socially participating in the current version of what students imagine the American college experience to be, and, boy oh boy, parents are either going to have to work years longer to pay for their children to get their degrees, or students are going to graduate with more debt than ever.
American universities are also now advertising their facilities and ability to entertain rather than educate. Take Louisiana State University (LSU) as an example. As our interviewee for this article Mike Williams put it, “American universities have become like resorts so the kids want to come. They have built a lazy river that spells out LSU. Come to LSU and be in the Lazy River. How can we entertain you? How can we make you want to come?”
The Williams Family Begin the College Search
Mike and Janet Williams are from the Chicago, Illinois area and have one child named Tim. As the time for their son to apply for college drew near, Mike and Janet wanted to ensure that they would pay the entire costs of his education. While they were lucky enough to be able to afford the tuition bills, they were shocked to discover the $22,000 price tag to attend an in-state university in the Chicago area, and this would be the cost if their son commuted to college from home.
While they were thinking about the best place for Tim to enroll, they also started considering where they hoped to retire. Janet ultimately wanted to retire in the US, but Mike suggested that it might be a good idea to explore Europe for several months or even a few years before settling down in the US for good.
Once Mike made the suggestion, Janet soon started researching its feasabillity. She soon started being served ads through social media and Facebook forums advertising the best places to retire. Time and time again, Portugal would make the list, and soon it became the top contender for the Williams Family. Mike and Janet started to crunch the numbers and they asked themselves, “Could we also retire if we all move to Portugal together?” After running several calculations, they realized that the answer was “Yes.” The plan would be to have the entire family live together in Portugal for the first year as Tim adjusted to university in Portugal. Then, Tim would either move into university housing or move in with other students off campus.
For Mike and Janet, giving Tim the chance to live on his own was an important rite of passage that would be more financially feasible in Portugal. Tim also wouldn’t need to have his own car if he attended a university in Lisbon or Porto. Lisbon also scored a 25.52 Level of Crime (Low) score compared to Chicago, Illinois, which scored a 78.37 (High) in the same study according to Numbeo.com.
Choosing the Right Portuguese University
Portuguese universities have a good global reputation and continue to climb in the world rankings. The most important part of choosing a Portuguese university if you’re coming from the United States is making sure that the Portuguese school offers a program entirely in English. These types of programs are limited, so please do your research several months to even a couple of years in advance. Mike and Janet made this mistake when they first visited the Católica Porto Business School, only to find out that the undergraduate economics course was not entirely in English. They then considered ISCTE, the University Institute of Lisbon, before settling on Nova University of Lisbon since Tim wanted to study Business/Economics and Nova offers an all-English program.
Getting into Portuguese University
Tim Williams ultimately decided to apply for Nova University of Lisbon, which ranked first in Portugal inBusiness and Economics and Arts and Humanities and Top 10 among young European universities founded less than 50 years ago in Business and Economics, Clinical and Health, and Education in the Times Higher Education Ranking By Subject 2021.
Tim had to take a 20-question mathematics pre-test to gauge their preparedness for the Economics program. The test turned out to be a formidable challenge for Tim, who considers himself only average at math. To get in, Tim ended up needing to hire a math tutor and cram a year of math into just a couple of weeks. Seriously, Universidade Nova of Lisbon was that much ahead of what Tim had studied in his Maryland high school. In the end, Tim barely passed the test and was able to get into Nova.
Of course, each program is going to have different requirements and the number of international students is limited, so please do your own research when considering Portuguese universities. And, once again, please ensure that the program will be in a language that you understand before applying.
The Benefits of Attending a Portuguese University vs. Staying in the US
While moving to a new country means leaving behind relationships that you’ve built for a lifetime, the broadening of your perspective by moving to a new country is hard to quantify. For some, it is priceless.
By going to school in Portugal, Tim has access to all of Europe on his school breaks in addition to the chance to work within a global community at his university. He will also get the chance to become fluent in Portuguese. In addition, after being a resident of Portugal for five years as a student, Tim will become eligible for Portuguese citizenship if he decides to apply. This would give him the ability to live and work anywhere in the EU. Many Bachelor’s degrees in Portugal can also be completed in three years, meaning that if Tim finishes five school years in Portugal, he can complete his Master’s degree in the same time that it would likely take him to finish his Bachelor’s degree in the US.
Tim may miss out on networking opportunities in the US and may earn less than they would in the US if they decide to stay and work in the EU. However, learning to speak Portuguese and having international experience may also give him an advantage when coming back to apply for US jobs. The fact that his parents can also retire and be right there to support him in Portugal is an added bonus.
By the Numbers: Illinois, USA vs. Portugal
The numbers below do not take into account the lower cost of living that Mike and Janet will also have in Lisbon compared to Chicago. Public transportation is free in Lisbon for students up to the age of 23 and seniors over the age of 65 as of 2022.
As you can see, the estimated savings is only $10,585 over 5 years. While this may not seem like much, this also assumes that the student will graduate with a Master’s degree in Portugal rather than finishing with only a Bachelor’s in five years in the United States.
Other Portuguese Universities That Offer All-English Undergraduate Programs
There are many factors to consider when deciding where to go for university. When you start to consider making an international move, things get even more complicated. With its friendly people, fabulous weather, reasonable tuition, work/life balance, and safe environment, we can recommend Portugal as a fantastic option to get a degree and maybe even have your parents come along with you. As Mike Williams puts it, “We want our son to see things. We don’t want the scope of his world to only be limited to the town where he grew up. When we looked at the numbers, even the savings in education alone says, ‘Do it.’” One month into their life in Portugal, with Tim ready to start at Universidade Nova of Lisbon in the fall, the Williams Family already doesn’t regret it.
We recently overheard an expat proclaim the following in a Portuguese office: “Getting my packages delivered here in Portugal is one of my biggest problems. It’s so hard to wait all day and never get your package. If I could just find a solution, life would be much easier.” His colleague then replied, “I just don’t order anything online here. Problem solved.”
If you’ve lived in Portugal for any period of time, you know the feeling – being told by CTT, the Portuguese post office, that you are due to receive a package – any time between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. You wait all day, never hear your doorbell ring, and then leave at 6:00 pm only to find a “package undelivered” slip in your mailbox from 3:22 pm, right when you were sure you were waiting patiently in your living room forgoing the use of your headphones.
There are many reasons for package delivery issues in Portugal – from broken doorbells in city buildings to mailboxes that are too small to receive a package and non-delivery by CTT due to staff shortages. The struggle is real for many districts throughout Portugal so learning how to navigate around mail issues will undoubtedly help you throughout your time in Portugal. Let’s look at five alternative ways to receive packages in Portugal instead of waiting at home.
1. CTT’s Locky
CTT, Portugal’s national postal service and the same entity facing staff shortages and struggling to deliver packages, offers the Locky service, a network of smart lockers located across the country. This service allows you to have your parcels delivered to a nearby locker, which you can access at your convenience using a unique code sent to your phone or email. As of July 2024, there are 840 Locky lockers throughout the country including 444 in the Lisbon area and 318 in Porto. Locky lockers are typically located in easily accessible public places such as shopping centers and transport hubs. This option is ideal for those who cannot be at home to receive packages and prefer to collect them on their own schedule.
To use this service, use the CTT app or the CTT website to add your preferred Locky location. This will require you to log-in with your CTT account. Once you have added your Locky locker, use the address and the code provided with your name to have your package sent to the locker. When you place an online order, you will then receive a text that your package has been delivered and you can pick it up with the code. Please check the dimensions of your package and make sure that it does not exceed the biggest lockers available in your Locky locker. You have five days to pick up your package once you receive a text or email indicating that it has been delivered.
Receiving a package with Locky costs around €1.50 per package, but the service is still free for the time being.
Locky by CTT, Photo by Becky Gillespie
2. DPD Pickup Points
DPD, a well-known international courier service, provides a network of 1500 Pickup Points throughout Portugal. These are typically located in local shops and convenience stores, making it easy to pick up your parcels while running other errands. You can find the nearest pickup point near you by providing your zip code. Once your package arrives, you will receive a notification and can collect it at a time that suits you. This service adds a level of flexibility and convenience, reducing the need to wait at home for deliveries. You can even track your package with Live Tracking by simply entering the parcel reference number – right down to the last 30 minutes.
The only downside here is that you can only pick up your package during store hours or the participating pickup point, unlike the Locky lockers which are available 24/7.
3. Vasp Expresso
Vasp Expresso is another service in Portugal that allows you to send and receive packages in a convenient way without waiting in any lines. Started back in 2011, the network covers more than 90% of municipalities in Portugal and they have more than 700 KIOS pickup and dropoff points near you. Admittedly, the website and app are harder to use than DPD, but this is a nice alternative if you are looking for more places in your area that DPD or Locky may not cover for receiving packages.
4. Make Friends with a Local Shop
Building a relationship with a local shop can be an excellent way to manage your package deliveries. This may not be something you had to do back in your home country, but it helps make your life easier for package delivery in Portugal. Many small businesses are willing to receive parcels on behalf of their regular customers. I personally did this with a local grocery store across from my apartment building that remained open seven days a week. I simply walked in one day and asked if I could start sending my packages there. It proved to be a godsend when I was out of town for a few weeks and I still had packages that needed to be delivered. Though they didn’t ask, I gave the shop a tip when I picked up my packages.
The best part about this option is that you can potentially leave packages with the shop for as long as you need before you return from a trip. The downside, of course, is that you never know when your package may be opened by someone from the shop or taken without your knowledge. Sometimes, the shop may also not be able to sign on your behalf, which will still result in you needing to go and pick up a package elsewhere. The shops, of course, are also not open 24/7.
5. Make Friends with a Trustworthy Neighbor
Having a reliable neighbor who is often home can be a lifesaver when it comes to receiving packages. You can arrange for your deliveries to be sent to your neighbor’s address, ensuring that someone is always available to receive them. In return, you can offer to do the same for them. This would ideally be the best option as long as your neighbor doesn’t get annoyed with too many packages being delivered. A friend told me that this option works well for her because she lives in the same building with a family who are always at home. Unfortunately, for me, I only share my building with two other people who are often away, so I have had to resort to the small business option and CTT Locky. The downside here is also that you can only pick up packages at a time that is convenient for your neighbor, but you can’t beat the convenience in terms of location.
Final Thoughts
As we have seen from this article, receiving packages in Portugal doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. By exploring these five different alternatives, you can hopefully find a solution that fits your lifestyle and ensures that you never miss a delivery again. Whether you opt for smart lockers, pickup points, or the friendly neighbor solution, these options give you much more flexibility and may also foster new relationships with people in your neighborhood. It may be a while before Portugal feels like a truly convenient place to receive packages, but hopefully, these options can reduce the hassle of the experience.
For sheer convenience, I prefer CTT’s Locky, except when a huge package needs to be delivered. Unfortunately, there is currently no convenient workaround for big items.
Portugal, land of sun, sea and fine wines, has ancient secrets and natural wonders under its feet that few people know about. Beneath the surface, a network of caves, mysterious wells, and Roman galleries are just waiting to be discovered. Come with us on a journey through some of Portugal’s most fascinating underground treasures.
1. The Mira d’Aire Caves
In the heart of Portugal, near the small town of Mira d’Aire, lie some of the largest and most impressive caves in the country. Discovered in 1947, the Mira d’Aire Caves extend for more than 11 kilometers, although only a small part is accessible to the public.
As we descend the steep stairs, the cool, humid air envelops us, and the soft lights reveal stalactites and stalagmites that look like otherworldly sculptures. Your imagination may run wild as you contemplate the bizarre and intriguing shapes sculpted by the water over thousands of years. The main chamber, known as the Great Hall, is a cavernous hall that evokes a natural cathedral, where the grandeur of nature is displayed in all its splendor.
One of the many galleries of the Mira de Aire caves, Pedro Albuquerque, Flickr
2. Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well
In Sintra, a land of palaces and lush gardens, there is a well that seems to be straight out of a Gothic fairy tale. The Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira, with its nine levels symbolizing the nine circles of Dante’s inferno, is a place shrouded in mystery and symbolism.
The Initiation Well of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal
As you descend the spiral staircase, each step takes you deeper into an introspective journey. The stone walls, covered in moss, and the openings that let in soft light create an almost supernatural atmosphere. At the bottom of the well, a mosaic of a Templar cross marks the end of the descent and the beginning of a new understanding.
3. Lisbon’s Roman Galleries
Beneath the bustling streets of downtown Lisbon lie Roman galleries that have remained forgotten for centuries! Discovered accidentally after the 1755 earthquake, these underground structures are a window into the city’s Roman past.
Every year, for a few days in April and September, the galleries are opened to the public, allowing a rare opportunity to explore this labyrinth of tunnels and arches. Walking through these narrow passages, lit only by lanterns, is like traveling back in time. The cold stone underfoot and the feeling of confinement increase the connection with the ancient Romans who once walked here.
4. Alvados Caves
Not far from the Mira d’Aire Caves, the Alvados Caves offer an equally impressive experience. Known for their natural beauty and unique formations, these caves are a hidden treasure in the Serra de Aire.
The journey through the caves reveals a symphony of shapes and colors, where the stalactites hang like swords of Damocles and the stalagmites stand like silent sentinels. The dripping water creates a hypnotic rhythm that echoes through the chambers.
The Alvados Caves, Michael O’Brien, Flickr
5. Loulé Rock Salt Mine
One of the most fascinating underground attractions in the Algarve is the Loulé Rock Salt Mine. This mine is still in operation and offers guided tours that descend to more than 230 meters below the surface. The sensation of descending into the underground world is overwhelming, and the magnitude of the mining operation is impressive.
The salt galleries, illuminated by artificial lights, create a surreal atmosphere. The bright white walls reflect the light, transforming the mine into a kind of ice cave. The silence here is almost palpable, which is interrupted only by the occasional sound of machines at work.
6. Algar do Carvão
In the Azores, Algar do Carvão is a geological rarity: a volcanic chimney accessible to the public. Located on the island of Terceira, this fascinating place offers a unique view of the interior of a dormant volcano.
Algar do Carvão, Terceira Island, Zealousy6, Flickr
The descent into Algar do Carvão is a journey into the heart of the earth. The volcanic walls, covered in lush vegetation, create an almost primordial atmosphere. At the bottom, an underground lake reflects the irregular walls, which creates a spectacle of light and shadow.
7. Santo António Caves
Near Porto de Mós, the Santo António Caves are another example of Portugal’s intriguing underground world. Discovered in 1955, these caves are known for their impressive limestone formations and the clarity of the underground water.
Walking through the caves is like exploring an underground palace. The wide chambers and winding passages are adorned with delicate stalactites and imposing stalagmites. The soft lighting highlights the natural beauty of the formations and turns the visit into an almost magical experience.
Santo António Caves, AiresDosSantos, Flickr
8. Benagil Cave
On the picturesque coastline of the Algarve, near Lagos, lies one of Portugal’s most iconic natural formations: the Benagil Cave. Only accessible by sea, this cave hides a golden sandy beach and is famous for its opening in the ceiling, which lets in sunlight, creating a stunning natural spectacle.
Paddling into Benagil Cave is an experience in itself. As you approach the entrance to the cave, the sound of the waves reverberates off the rocky walls, amplifying the sense of mystery. Inside, the sunlight penetrating through the ceiling illuminates the turquoise water and golden sand, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. It’s a place where nature seems to have decided to carve out a piece of hidden paradise, waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture out.
Benagil Caves. Photo by 777 S (Unsplash)
9. Moeda Caves
Located near Fátima, the Moeda Caves are another underground wonder worth visiting. Discovered in 1971 by two hunters, these caves offer a spectacle of limestone formations that seem straight out of a work of art.
The guided tour of the caves takes us along a 350-meter path, where stalactites and stalagmites compete for our attention. The main chamber, known as the Crib Room, is particularly impressive, with formations reminiscent of biblical figures. The combination of artificial lights and natural forms creates a magical atmosphere, each corner revealing a new surprise.
Moeda Caves, nmmacedo, Flickr
10. Castromil Gold Mine
In the north of Portugal, near Paredes, we find the Castromil Gold Mine. These ancient mines were exploited by the Romans and later during the gold rush of the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, they are a fascinating testimony to the history of gold mining in Portugal.
A visit to the mines allows you to learn about the gold extraction techniques used over the centuries. The dark galleries and deep shafts create a sense of adventure, while the displays of old tools and mining remains transport us to a bygone era. Exploring these mines is a history lesson about the gold rush that once swept this region.
11. Escoural Caves
In the Alentejo region, the Escoural Caves are an important archaeological site that offers a glimpse into prehistoric life. Discovered in 1963, these caves contain cave paintings and animal bones dating back to the Upper Paleolithic.
Entering the caves is like entering a natural museum. The walls are covered with paintings of animals and human figures made over 20,000 years ago. The presence of bone remains and stone tools indicates that these caves were inhabited by hunter-gatherers, making them one of the most important archaeological sites in Portugal. The visit is an educational journey into humanity’s distant past.
Escoural Caves, Vitor Oliveira, Flickr
Final Thoughts
Exploring Portugal’s underground world of caves, mines, and galleries offer unique adventures, each place representing a piece of Portugal’s vast underground puzzle. From the stunning Mira d’Aire Caves to Lisbon’s intriguing Roman galleries, Underground Portugal is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Venture out, explore and allow yourself to be captivated by the secrets hidden beneath your feet.
Planning to visit Lisbon in August 2024? Get ready for crazy hot summer days that still feel pleasant, thanks to the refreshing ocean breeze! While preparing for your trip (or maybe you’re already here!), you’re probably looking for local events to attend, whether to have fun and relax or learn something new about the country.
As the summer sun bathes Lisbon in warm golden light, August 2024 promises an exhilarating array of events that cater to every taste and age! We’ve got everything – from vibrant festivals and concerts in Lisbon that fill the air with rhythm to cultural celebrations that showcase the rich heritage of this stunning city!
Families can enjoy interactive activities designed for kids, while art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in captivating exhibitions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the streets of Lisbon will come alive with sunshine, music, and creativity in August!
Without further ado, here are 12 things to do in Lisbon in August 2024!
12 Things to Do in Lisbon in August 2024
1. Festival Ao Largo
When: July 11 – August 1
Where: Largo de São Carlos, 1200-443 Lisboa, Portugal
How much: Free
Festival Ao Largo has been on the summer agenda of thousands of Lisboetas for 16 years now! This festival celebrates classical music, theater, and dance. You can attend the event for free and enjoy live performances in outdoor settings. This year, there will be workshops for children and families focusing on music and dance exploration, so definitely keep this festival in mind for a pleasant family evening!
In 2024, the festival aims to celebrate the country’s 50 years of Liberdade. It takes place at Largo de São Carlos. Although the entrance is free, the number of people allowed on the premises is limited, so we recommend arriving earlier.
As mentioned above, the festival mostly takes place in July, so if you’re reading this article in July and are in Lisbon, go for it! Enjoy an amazing evening out! The last festival event takes place on August 1st, which is why we’re including it in our guide. The performance on the August 1st is called Territory VII and is dedicated to young dancers between 14 and 18.
2. Jazz em Agosto
The Gulbenkian Park, Lisbon. Photo by Fabs (Unsplash)
When: August 1 – 11
Where: Gulbenkian Foundation, Av. de Berna 45 A, 1067-001 Lisboa, Portugal
How much: 130 EUR for all 14 concerts; 65 EUR for 6 concerts; 50 EUR for 5 concerts; 7 EUR – 20 EUR for individual tickets
This year marks the 40th edition ofJazz em Agosto – “We are what we see, what we think, what we read, and what we hear.”
This festival takes place at the Gulbenkian Foundation. From August 1-11, you can attend 17 concerts held at the Open-Air Amphitheatre, the Grand Auditorium, and Auditorium 2. The concerts will focus on contemporary jazz, featuring performances of national and international artists in a beautiful outdoor setting. Here are some of the artists whose music will enchant you at the Gulbenkian Foundation:
James Breandon Lewis / Red Lily Quintet
Bill Orcutt Guitar Quartet
Ava mendoza & Gabby Fluke-Mogul
Dieb13 Beatnik Manifesto
Made of Bones
Fire! Orchestra
In short, if you’re a jazz music enthusiast, know everything about the Beat Generation, or simply want to spend quality time in Lisbon, don’t hesitate to add Jazz em Agosto to your calendar!
3. MEO Kalorama
When: August 29 – 31
Where: Parque da Bela Vista, Av. Alm. Gago Coutinho, 1950-037 Lisboa, Portugal
One of the most anticipated music festivals of the year – it’s MEO Kalorama! Locals and tourists will gather from August 29-31 at Parque de Bela Vista to party like never before and listen to some of the world’s greatest bands!
Being a multi-genre music festival focusing on art, music, and sustainability, MEO Kalorama promises a diverse lineup of artists and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for music lovers.
Massive Attack, Sam Smith, LCD Soundsystem, Death Cab for Cutie, Burna Boy, and Soulwax are only some of the names on the MEO Kalorama lineup! Sounds quite intriguing, right? Get yourtickets now, ‘cause they’re selling quite fast!
4. Xavier Rudd Concert
When: August 28, 2024
Where: Coliseu dos Recreios, R. das Portas de Santo Antão 96, 1150-269 Lisboa, Portugal
How much: 30 EUR
Xavier Rudd is an Australian singer and songwriter with dozens of songs that passed the YouTube million-views milestone. His music is a unique blend of folk, blues, indie folk, and rock. The lyrics are directed towards socially conscious themes, including environmentalism, spirituality, and humanity.
Xavier Rudd’s music takes your hand and leads you to a better place, filled with beauty, peace, and joy! So, if you want to have an otherworldly experience here in Lisbon in August, make sure to attendXavier Rudd’s concert on August 28th at Coliseu dos Recreios.
5. Afrohouse Electronic Music Festival
When: August 3, 2024
Where: Municipal Stadium of Oeiras, Estádio Mun. de Oeiras, Rua Coro de Santo Amaro de Oeiras 12, 2780-416 Oeiras, Portugal
How much: 25 EUR – 75 EUR
Every House, Afrotech, Afrodeep, and Afrohouse music enthusiast should head to the Municipal Stadium of Oeiras on August 3rd, 2024 to have fun at this 9-hour-long event!
This year’sAfrohouse Electronic Music Festival has an incredible lineup (Bun Xapa, Da Capo, Caiiro, Karyendasoul, and others) that will catch the attention of anyone who enjoys this kind of music. The event starts at 3 p.m., and the tickets cost between 25 EUR and 75 EUR. Rush up to add this event on your things-to-do-in-Lisbon-in-August list!
6. Festival Tribute of Techno
When: August 4, 2024
Where: Municipal Stadium of Oeiras, Estádio Mun. de Oeiras, Rua Coro de Santo Amaro de Oeiras 12, 2780-416 Oeiras, Portugal
How much: 25 EUR – 50 EUR
The Tribute of Techno Festival marks its 3rd edition this year, inviting all techno music lovers to the Municipal Stadium of Oeiras to celebrate this unique genre and enjoy the greatest summer party of 2024!
The festival’s lineup includes renowned DJs and artists, including Cristobal Pesce, Joanna Coelho, Fatima Hajji, and others. In short, an electrifying atmosphere is guaranteed! Hurry up to get yourtickets!
7. Airotic Soiree: A Burlesque Circus Cabaret
When: Friday and Saturday, throughout August
Where: Espaço LABORATÓRIO, Av. Infante Dom Henrique 336A, 1800-224 Lisboa, Portugal
How much: 45 EUR – 109 EUR
Are you up for a sensual evening filled with art, passion, and magic? Book a ticket for theAirotic Soiree: A Burlesque Circus Cabaret that promises extravagant costumes, unique choreography, and incredible acrobatic tricks that will take your breath away!
In August, this event takes place every Friday and Saturday. The standard ticket costs 45 EUR and includes a back-row seat and one drink. However, other tickets include additional services, so make sure to check them all out before buying any.
8. Operafest Lisboa 2024
When: August 22 – September 11, 2024
Where: Gulbenkian Foundation (Av. de Berna 45 A, 1067-001 Lisboa, Portugal) and Palácio do Marquês de Pombal (Largo Marquês Pombal 21, 2780-289 Oeiras, Portugal)
How much: 5 EUR – 35 EUR, depending on the event
Do we have opera lovers here? If so, Lisbon’s waiting for you! From August 22 – September 11, you have the opportunity to attend a unique opera event in Lisbon produced by Opera do Castelo and led by soprano Catarina Molder. We’re talking, of course, about the 5th edition of theOperafest Lisboa 2024!
This year, the festival’s motto is Basic Instinct, and it launches in the Gardens of Palácio Marquês de Pombal in Oeiras. In other words, one cannot find a better place for an operafest! There, you’ll be able to delight in Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticiana and Leoncavallao’s Pagliacci.
A few days later, Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation’s open-air Amphitheatre in Lisbon will greet opera enthusiasts with Mozart’s Don Giovanni.
9. Festival dos Oceanos
The Vasco da Gama Bridge as seen from Parque das Nações where Festival dos Oceanos is held in Lisbon in August. Photo by Magda Paiva (Unsplash)
When: July 30 – August 13
Where: Throughout Lisbon
How much: Free
Festival dos Oceanos was first inaugurated in 1999. Since then, for 15 days in the month of August, Lisboetas, as well as travelers from Portugal and from all over the world, are expected at Lisbon’s spectacular riverfront. This ocean-themed festival has gained international recognition and over two million visitors since 1999.
All the events are free and suitable for visitors of all ages. So if you’re traveling to Portugal with kids, you should certainly give Festival dos Oceanos a chance! You’ll attend concerts, cultural events, street performances, and even fireworks – all these running from Belém to Parque das Nações.
10. Dali Cybernetics Lisboa
Salvador Dali, whose works are displayed at the Dali Cybernetics exhibition in Lisbon in August. Photo by Carl Van Vechten (Wikimedia)
When: Throughout August
Where: Reservatório da Mãe d’Água das Amoreiras, Praça das Amoreiras 10, 1250-020 Lisboa, Portugal
How much: 12.50 EUR
Are you an art enthusiast? Anyway, who are we kidding here?! You’ll enjoy this event regardless of whether you’re an art enthusiast or not! It’s simply in-cre-di-ble!
TheDali Cybernetics Lisboa is an immersive experience that transposes you into Salvador Dali’s surrealist universe. You’ll be surrounded by large-format projections, virtual reality, and interactive installations that will make this journey truly dreamlike!
11. Impressive Monet & Brilliant Kilmt by Oubo
One of Claude Monet’s most famous paintings, “Impression, Sunrise,” that led to the development of Impressionism. Photo source: Wikimedia
When: Throughout August
Where: Reservatório da Mãe d’Água das Amoreiras, Praça das Amoreiras 10, 1250-020 Lisboa, Portugal
How much: 12.50 EUR
Have you enjoyed the Dali exhibition and want to take part in another immersive artistic experience? Go forImpressive Monet & Brilliant Klimt by Ocubo! This combination of Impressionism and Symbolism takes art exhibitions to another level! You’ll step onto a realm of animations spread over 2000 square meters that bring paintings to life.
However, be advised that the event features bright lights and sound effects, so it is not recommended for people with epilepsy.
12. Lisbon Boat Party
Photo by Vlog Influx (Unsplash)
When: Throughout Lisbon
How much: from 29 EUR
Have you had enough of the scorching August sun and want to relax on a boat, surrounded by the refreshing breeze of the Tagus River? Not a problem! You’ll find plenty of Lisbon boat party events.
Lisbonboatparty.com, for example, organizes parties every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in August. A single ticket costs 29 EUR and includes two drinks. Their parties have local DJs that boost the atmosphere. Not to mention the spectacular views you’ll get by booking a boat party at sunset!
If you’re visiting Lisbon with the entire family or group of friends (or maybe you’re already a resident and want to celebrate an anniversary!), you can book an all-inclusive boat party organized exclusively for your group withSplash Boat Party Lisbon. If you only need one or two tickets, you can choose one of the multiple parties they organize in August.
Lisbon Weather in August
Lisbon in August. Photo by Robert-Razvan Branza
Visiting Lisbon in August is a bold move – without a doubt (and actually confirmed by climatologists), August is the hottest month in Lisbon. The daily mean temperature in Lisbon in August is 23.1°C (73.5°F), while the mean daily maximum is 27.9°C (82.2°F).
These numbers may seem quite fine, right? Well, the thing is that the sun makes all the difference. So if you’re traveling to Lisbon from the North, for example, 27°C will feel extra hot, and you’ll likely get sunburnt if you don’t protect your skin accordingly. Plus, August usually has a few days of extreme temperatures, the record high being 44°C (111.2°F).
Not everything’s bad news, we promise! The greatest thing about Lisbon is the ocean breeze. It makes staying under direct sunlight so much more bearable (but don’t let it trick you, getting sunburned is guaranteed without SPF creams!). In fact, it can be quite chilly in Lisbon after sunset, even in August!
So, if you’re wearing a hat, apply sunscreen regularly, and drink plenty of water, you’ll be just fine! Lisbon in August is so lively that you’ll forget everything about the weather and simply enjoy your time in the city! Alternatively, make sure to book at least one or two days at the beach, where you can take a dip in the cold ocean water and be immediately refreshed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a good time to visit Lisbon in August?
Visiting Lisbon in August is a great time, as the city is lively and vibrant, and there are plenty of events to attend. Sometimes it can be quite hot in August, but the evenings are perfect, thanks to the ocean breeze.
Is it too hot to go to Lisbon in August?
August is the warmest month in Lisbon, with temperatures reaching 28.9°C (82.7°F). It rarely rains in August, and the sun is quite powerful. However, you can definitely visit Lisbon in August, especially since the ocean breeze will make the high temperatures feel more bearable. Just make sure to wear a hat, protect yourself from solar radiation by applying sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. If you are visiting and can find accommodation with air conditioning, we encourage you to go for it.
What happens in Lisbon in August?
There are numerous events to attend in Lisbon in August 2024 – concerts, music festivals, art exhibitions, burlesque concerts, and boat parties. Some of these events are free and have special programs for children.
Due to the Rehabilitation Program – Living Better (Programa Viver Melhor), three of Lisbon’s municipal neighborhoods will undergo rehabilitation works. This is expected to impact 100 residents directly.
The program, which is a partnership between Lisbon’s City Hall and Gebalis (a company focused on local development that aims to promote and manage municipal housing properties) will invest a total of 4.7 million euros in the rehabilitation of the neighborhoods of Avenida de Berlim, Quinta dos Ourives, and Boavista.
According to public data, the works will include the following:
The neighborhood of Avenida de Berlim, located in Olaias, in the northern part of Lisbon, will have six lots rehabilitated, which correspond to 84 fractions, and the works are supposed to end in the first trimester of 2025;
In the neighborhood of Bairro dos Ourives, located in Beato, the eastern part of the city, five lots, corresponding to 104 houses, are also projected to be done within the first trimester of 2025;
Finally, regarding the neighborhood of Boavista, located in Benfica, next to Monsanto Forest Park, the works will be on 14 lots, corresponding to 168 houses, and are due in the second trimester of 2025.
The beginning of these three projects further solidifies Gebalis’s commitment to the municipality, which has a focus on improving housing conditions and the overall quality of life.
Note that the Living Better program is considered one of the largest investments ever made in municipal housing, and it aims to rehabilitate a total of 478 buildings, impacting 8614 fractions, which correspond to 1545 houses. These three projects are only the beginning. The next works, which shall start during the summer, will target six other municipal neighborhoods.
Portugal continues to experience an unprecedented housing crisis, with the real estate market reaching levels of inaccessibility that threaten to further fragment the nation’s social fabric.
These housing issues are the result of a combination of factors: the sharp increase in real estate prices and in rents, the stagnation of household income, and the tightening of financial conditions.
According to the National Statistic Institute (INE), in the last 5 years, the average rent for new contracts has been increasing at an average annual growth rate of 8,3%. In parallel, also in the last 5 years, real estate prices have been increasing at an average annual growth rate of 10%.
In contrast, according to the data revealed by the Bank of Portugal, in the last 4 years, disposable income per capita only increased at an average annual growth rate of 5.9%. It should be noted here that this already started from an established base of low income.
Obviously, there is a discrepancy between the increase of prices and that of disposable income. Considering the scenario, there are fewer and stricter financing options available and, on top of that, there is also a shortage in the housing supply. Consequently, more and more families cannot find sustainable housing solutions, and the demographic fragmentation continues to get worse.
Being aware of this very real, expanding, and pressing problem, the Portuguese Government introduced a program to fight it. Among the most relevant proposals are:
the provision of public housing properties with affordable rents and/or prices;
the amendment of the land law (Lei do Solo) to allow the use of rustic land for sustainable housing solutions;
the reduction of VAT to a minimum rate of 6% for housing rehabilitation and construction works;
the unlocking of 25,000 homes from the resilience and recovery plan (PRR);
the revocation of forced renting;
the exemption of IMT and Imposto de Selo on the purchase of the first home for young people up to 35 years old, in properties up to 316,000 euros.
Experts, however, do not 100% agree with the expected efficacy of these measures. Some critics argue that the targeting program does not go far enough to tackle the structural problems that create the crisis. To them, problems such as real estate price speculation and the lack of regulation directed towards the short term renting market need further attention and a better overall response.
The Golden Visa investment in Portugal changed significantly in 2023, when property was removed from the list of options. With investing in property no longer an option, the minimum investment to obtain a Golden Visa increased from €280,000 to €500,000. This is quite an increase and may be out of reach for potential investors.
Despite the price increase, many report that the thought of an EU passport in 5 years’ time is attractive, and the Golden visa allows a passport to be granted without having to move an applicant’s tax residency to Portugal. The minimum stay for the Golden Visa continues to be only two weeks in each two-year period, which allows for relocation to an EU country on demand, without having to leave one’s current country right away. Applications from US citizens have continued to increase over the first six months of the year and continue to accelerate as more Americans are looking for a “plan B” due to current political uncertainty in the United States.
A New Financing Option to Apply for the Golden Visa
Until now, the only other ways to qualify for the Golden Visa include certain investments that can be made with as little as €325,000 or to donate €250,000 to the Portuguese investment, which has been historically unpopular. Fortunately, an alternative to the donation is now available which provides 100% financing of the €500,000 for a fee of only €168,000.
Although this is still a hefty chunk of change, this lower fee opens the door for applicants and their families to qualify for the Golden Visa with significantly less capital. With the addition of this new option, the following entry points of investor capital are now available:
€168,000 – Full financing of €500,000, for a fee of €168,000.
€250,000 – A donation to the Portugal Government
€325,000 – Investment of €500,000 with €101,000 return paid upfront + €74,000 loan
€399,000 – Investment of €500,000 with €101,000 return paid upfront
€500,000 – All other investment routes
Many clients are now opting to invest whilst keeping the funds within their retirement accounts for tax purposes. This can allow for the investment to be funded without facing significant taxes and potential penalties for withdrawing below a certain age.
Although the process takes a little longer, savings held within a 401k and IRA can be used with many applicants already saving themselves more than 100,000 EUR.
For further guidance on these topics, we invite you to register for a complimentary live Q&A where you will have the chance to ask any questions you may have. Simply click here.
If you are unable to make the webinar, you’re welcome to schedule a personal discussion with me on Zoom here. I’m able to provide a full breakdown of all current investment options available and answer your questions.
Considering Portugal’s Golden Visa Program? Everything you need to know + how to qualify with 325,000 EUR
If you’re interested in finding out the latest details about the Golden Visa program and want to take advantage of the new opportunities. Signup for a live Q&A webinar with an expert from Holborn Assets that will answer all your questions. The event is scheduled for August 13 at 6 PM Lisbon Time (2 PM EST). The live webinar will cover the following:
Golden Visa basics, how to qualify, who can be included
New Investment Criteria for 2024
Golden Visa timeline and process
How to qualify with just 325,000 EUR – this exclusive offer includes investment loan financing to bridge the gap to reach the 500k minimum investment
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