Portuguese cheeses are well-known worldwide for their unique flavors and aromas. Luckily, if you’re a cheese lover planning a visit to Portugal, you will find a variety of high-quality cheeses everywhere, from large supermarkets and local mercearias to restaurants of all prices.
Just like wines, many kinds of Portuguese cheese have received protected designation of origin (DPO) labels. This certification is given to products made in specific regions using traditional techniques and ingredients. It ensures that the entire manufacturing process follows the rules regarding milk sourcing, animal breeds, and more.
If you’re getting a DOP cheese, you’re getting the real thing, which all the cheeses on this list fall under. However, keep in mind that Portugal also has other amazing cheeses that do not have the DOP label.
Let’s take a look at 8 Portuguese cheeses to taste on your next trip!
1. Serra da estrela cheese
Probably the most well-known cheese in Portugal, produced in the highest mountain range on the mainland, Serra da Estrela, a pastoral region. It is one of the beloved and most famous Portuguese cheeses. The name itself reveals its origin: it is produced in the mountains located in the center of the country.
To earn the DOP classification, the milk used in its production must come from the sheep raised in the region. The milking is done manually, and then the milk is heated, curdled, and cured with thistle flowers.
Due to its delicate flavor and creamy texture, it is often served with bread, toast, and crackers. Just make a hole in the top of the cheese, spread it with a knife, and enjoy!
By the way, don’t be surprised by the strong aroma of Serra da Estrela cheese, it is also one of the characteristics that make it special.
2. Azeitão cheese
Azeitão cheese also falls into the category of creamy cheeses, produced from sheep’s milk and thistle flowers. This cheese comes from Azeitão, a village located less than an hour away from the capital, Lisbon. Although it has a similar manufacturing process and appearance to Serra da Estrela cheese, it is lighter and has a slightly milder flavor.
It is usually served at room temperature. Simply cut it in half, then slice it into small pieces and let the creamy texture slowly ooze out. It pairs perfectly with homemade bread and a glass of red wine.
3. Transmontano goat cheese
The Transmontano goat cheese can only be made with raw goat milk from the Serra breed. The cheese itself has an intense white color and a hard consistency, maturing for at least sixty days at a medium to low temperature. It also has a slightly spicy flavor.
You can find the semi-cured variety, which is younger, and the older and harder variety, typically aged between ninety days to two years, often rubbed with olive oil or paprika. For an even more complete experience, pair this cheese with traditional Transmontano rye bread or some tasty jam!
4. Serpa cheese
From the Baixa Alentejo region, what makes Serpa cheese unique is the time it takes to age which is a period between 4 months to 2 years. Produced from raw sheep’s milk, its characteristics vary greatly.
Depending on the aging time, it can have a consistency that ranges from buttery to hard. Its spicy and slightly sweet touch comes from paprika. If it is creamy, try tasting it as a spread with some delicious Alentejo bread.
5. São Jorge cheese
Also known as Quejo da Ilha (Island Cheese), this cheese is produced on the Island of São Jorge in the Azores archipelago. São Jorge cheese is probably one of the most unique cheeses of all in Portugal, as its flavor sets it apart from other cheeses.
The highlight lies in its production using raw milk, unlike other cheeses made from pasteurized or filtered milk. The result is a semihard texture with a yellow shell and a lightly spicy flavor.
6. Évora cheese
Produced in Évora in the Alentejo, this cheese is made from raw sheep’s milk and has distinctive characteristics, particularly a smooth, yellow crust with small holes. The salty taste is balanced by a slight spiciness.
The maturation process takes 30 days for the semi-hard varieties and 90 days for the hard ones. The more aged it is, the more flavorful it becomes. This cheese is usually served in the Alentejo as an appetizer before the main meal.
7. Pico cheese
São Jorge cheese is not the only delicious cheese from the Azores, but also the cheese from Pico. Historical records show that it has been produced in the Azores since the 18th century.
Traditionally, it was made exclusively from raw cow’s milk, but nowadays there are mixed productions that also incorporate goat’s milk in the process. The curing process takes a minimum of twenty days, and the entire process has been passed down from generation to generation.
The cheese is semi-soft and quite fatty, with a distinctive salty taste and a strong aroma. It is usually served accompanied by Pico wine at the beginning or end of meals.
8. Nisa cheese
The Nisa cheese from Alto Alentejo is made from raw sheep’s milk and coagulated with thistle infusion. It undergoes a two-stage curing process: the first at a lower temperature and the second at a slightly higher temperature, never exceeding 14°C.
After one or two months of aging, the cheese becomes semi-hard and yellowish, with an intense flavor and a tangy finish. The production of this cheese remains purely artisanal to this day.
It’s perfect for snacking while enjoying a classic Alentejo wine. It is also commonly used in the preparation of quiches and traditional dishes.
If you’ve walked the streets of Portugal, it’s hard to have missed the traditional handicrafts and local artisans that make up the culture of the country. From the south to the north of the country, each region has its own popular handicrafts.
Known as artesanto in Portugal, the Portuguese have produced incredible objects from the hard work of their hands alone. From pottery to lace making, these handicrafts showcase the skill, creativity, and cultural pride of Portuguese artisans.
Immersing yourself in these art forms and handicrafts not only allows you to witness the artistry firsthand but also supports local communities and contributes to the preservation of Portugal’s unique artistic traditions. Let’s take a look at the history of traditional handicrafts in Portugal, as well as the most popular types of artesanato to look out for.
(Updated May 2026)
History of Traditional Handicrafts in Portugal
Portuguese traditional handicrafts have a history that stretches back many centuries, reflecting the country’s vibrant cultural heritage. Portugal has a deep-rooted tradition of artesanato, influenced by a diverse range of civilizations and cultures that have shaped the region over time. From the exquisite azulejo tiles to embroidery, these traditional handicrafts have played a crucial role in preserving Portugal’s unique cultural identity.
For example, one of the most remarkable traditional artesanatos in Portugal is the art of azulejo. Azulejos are hand-painted ceramic tiles that embellish buildings, churches, and even palaces throughout the country. Introduced by the Moors during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, azulejos became an integral part of Portuguese architecture from the 15th century onwards.
Traditional handicrafts not only serve as a testament to Portugal’s artistic legacy but also contribute significantly to its economy and tourism. Preserving and promoting these crafts is of utmost importance to Portugal, as they continue to captivate both locals and visitors with their beauty and historical importance. In essence, traditional handicrafts almost preserve the history of Portugal!
Popular Traditional Handicrafts in Portugal
A great way to support traditional handicrafts in Portugal is by buying handmade artesanato directly from local artisans. Let’s take a look at popular traditional handicrafts in Portugal to look out for.
Pottery/Ceramics
Pottery or ceramics is an art form that can be found throughout the country, but some notable regions renowned for their pottery production include Barcelos, Caldas da Rainha, and Nisa. These areas offer a glimpse into the intricate pottery-making process from shaping the clay to hand-painting vibrant designs.
Portuguese pottery is celebrated for its distinctive patterns and colors, often drawing inspiration from nature, folklore, and historical events. Pottery is not only functional but also serves as a decorative art form, with pieces ranging from delicate ceramic dishes to ornate tiles and figurines.
Portuguese ceramics. Photo by sylvie charron (Unsplash)
Embroidery
Embroidery is another popular traditional handicraft in Portugal known for its meticulous needlework and intricate designs. The town of Viana do Castelo is particularly celebrated for its embroidery tradition. Portuguese embroidery encompasses a wide range of techniques, including counted thread embroidery and whitework. It’s also common for the older generation to have high skills in embroidery, particularly women.
Skilled artisans use fine threads to create intricate patterns on various textiles, such as tablecloths, pillowcases, and clothing. These designs often feature floral motifs, geometric patterns, and religious symbols, depending on the region.
Portuguese woman sewing. Photo by Elio Santos (Unsplash)
Basket Weaving
Basket weaving is a special but lesser-known artesanato in Portugal, with skilled artisans creating functional and decorative baskets using natural materials like willow and straw. The town of Castelo Branco is renowned for its basketry tradition, with the weavers expertly crafting a wide variety of baskets, from sturdy shopping baskets to intricately designed decorative pieces.
If you spot a traditional store, keep in mind that these might be pricier than you expect as they take a lot of work to make. Moreover, these beautifully crafted baskets are not only functional but also make for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Lace Making
Lace making, known as renda, is an exquisite traditional handicraft that has deep roots in Portugal’s history. The city of Peniche is particularly famous for its lace-making tradition. Portuguese lace is meticulously crafted using delicate threads and intricate patterns, often depicting floral and geometric designs. Skilled artisans create lace by hand, using bobbins and fine needles.
You will find that it is quite common for Portuguese elderly to make tablecloths and other useable products with lace.
Lace tablecloth. Photo by Juliette Félix (Unsplash)
Cork Products
Fun fact – Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world. What many don’t know is that the art of working with cork has deep historical and cultural significance in Portugal. Cork products, ranging from fashion accessories to household items, are not only sustainable but also reflect Portugal’s connection to its natural resources.
The town of Evora, located in the Alentejo region, is renowned for its cork industry. Here, you can witness the intricate process of harvesting and transforming cork into a wide range of products, including bags, wallets, coasters, and even flooring.
Cork product. Photo by Gints Gailis (Unsplash)
Azulejo Tiles
Last but not least, Azulejo tiles are one of the most important parts of Portugal’s cultural heritage. These glazed blue ceramic tiles from the 14th century decorate the streets, buildings, and monuments of Portuguese cities. The azulejo is also commonly displayed in Portuguese homes, as well as train stations, restaurants, and fountains.
These hand-painted ceramic tiles feature intricate designs and vibrant colors, often depicting historical narratives, religious scenes, and geometric patterns. Throughout the country, there are various stores selling handmade tiles, including the traditional blue and white, as well as in other colors.
The city of Lisbon, particularly the Alfama district, showcases stunning examples of azulejo tiles, with churches, palaces, and other buildings decorated with the tiles. The city of Porto is also known for the tiles, featured beautifully in Sāo Bento train station, for example.
A city full of vibrant culture, history, and delicious cuisine, Lisbon is the perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking to explore its historic landmarks or stroll through charming neighborhoods, Lisbon has something for everyone.
With only 48 hours in the city, it can be challenging to fit everything in but it’s more than doable with the right itinerary. Take a look at our Lisbon weekend itinerary for your 48 hours in Lisbon with an activity schedule, as well as the best hotels and best restaurants.
(Updated May 2026)
Lisbon Day 1 Itinerary
Morning
Start your day with a delicious Portuguese breakfast at Pastelaria Versailles, a historic bakery located in the city center. Try their famous pastel de nata, a traditional egg custard tart, and pair it with a strong espresso to get your day off to a good start.
After breakfast, head to the Alfama district, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, and get lost in its maze of narrow streets and alleyways. This is a great way to discover the local culture and architecture.
Don’t forget to stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River.
Alfama. Photo by Liam McKay (Unsplash)
Afternoon
For lunch, we recommend trying some of the city’s best seafood at Cervejaria Ramiro. This popular restaurant has been serving delicious seafood dishes since 1956 and is a must-visit for any food lover. Things can get a bit pricey here if you order the highest quality seafood, but this an authentic Portuguese experience that we highly recommend.
After lunch, head to Belem, a neighborhood located west of the city center. Here you’ll find the iconic Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Jeronimos Monastery, another must-see landmark in Lisbon. Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the Tagus River.
Torre de Belem. Photo by Alex Paganelli (Unsplash)
Before dinner, enjoy a private electric tuk-tuk ride that allows you to learn all about Lisbon’s history and culture, while aboard an eco-friendly vehicle.
The tour stops at all the major attractions, such as Alfama and Mouraria, the historic neighborhoods, as well as Praça do Comércio and Belem. The tuk-tuk also stops at the best Lisbon viewpoints for photo ops of the city.
Praca do Comercio. Photo by João Reguengos (Unsplash)
Evening
For dinner, head to Time Out Market, a popular food hall that offers a variety of local and international cuisine. This is a great place to try different dishes and soak up the lively atmosphere. You will find different delicious restaurants there, including Sea Me, Café de Sāo Bento, and Asian Lab.
After dinner, head to the Bairro Alto district, one of Lisbon’s liveliest neighborhoods, and enjoy some drinks at one of the many bars and clubs in the area.
Barro Alto. Photo by Alano Oliveira lanomds (Unsplash)
Lisbon Day 2 Itinerary
Morning
Start the day with breakfast at Pastelaria Alfacinha where you get to try some local pastries. After breakfast, head to Castelo de São Jorge, an 11th century medieval castle that overlooks the historical center of Lisbon.
The castle was most recently restored in 1938 by the dictatorship of Salazar as part of a commemoration of Portuguese patriotism and independence.
After visiting the castle, take the iconic 28 tram from Miradouro da Graça that goes through Praca do Comercio and other locations. This tram is a local transportation method, but one that is almost touristic. Hop off in Chiado.
Tram 28. Photo by Archana Reddy (Unsplash)
Afternoon
Chiado is well known for being home to the best stores and luxurious cafes located in the heart of the city. The 1700s Bertrand book store is located here, as well as the emblematic cafe A Brasileira. Take a stroll along Rua Garrett and enjoy the lively atmosphere, walking toward Praça do Comércio, the largest square in Lisbon.
Chiado. Photo by Joel Filipe (Unsplash)
There are multiple restaurants here for lunch. We recommend Martinho da Arcada, a delicious Portuguese restaurant dating back to 1782.
After lunch, head back towards Elevador de Santa Justa, an elevator completed in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, an architecture student of the man who built the Eiffel Tower.
Forty-five meters tall, the lift has a similar design to the Eiffel Tower and was built to connect the lower streets of Baixa to Carmo Square for locals to have an easier passage. You can ride the elevator to enjoy the view of the Baixa Pombalina.
Santa Justa Lift. Photo by Lucie Capkova (Unsplash)
Lastly, walk around Rossio Square, also known as Praça Dom Pedro IV. This is a lively square where you can sit, relax, and people-watch.
The square includes two baroque fountains, and in the center is a monument measuring 27 meters in height. On the north side of the square is the Dona Maria II National Theater, a building from the 1840s.
Evening
You’re not fully experiencing Lisbon without a fado dinner out. Fado is a traditional music style that became known in the old neighborhoods of Lisbon such as Alfama. This style of music was sung in taverns, beginning in the 19th century and is now a UNESCO-listed musical genre.
This experience offers an intimate dinner and live Fado music performance, so you can savor the delicious flavors of authentic Portuguese cuisine while enjoying the beautiful melodies of traditional music.
As part of this evening tour, you’ll also get to see some of Lisbon’s illuminated landmarks by night, including the National Pantheon and Lisbon Cathedral. With hotel pick-up, dinner, and a guided city tour included, this small-group tour is tailored to provide you with a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel: Awarded the Best Luxury Green Hotel in 2019, Inspira Liberdade provides a relaxing Feng-Shui vibe for its guests. The hotel has a SPA, fitness room, bar, and a restaurant with Portuguese food called Pen Brasserie Mediterrânica.
Selena Secret Garden: The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room. In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado.
Bairro Alto Hotel: This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha.
Hotel Lisbon Plaza:This 4-star family-owned hotel is decorated in the style of Portuguese homes. With 24-hour room service, a terrace, and a gym this small hotel has been in the same family since the 1950s.
Pestana Palace Lisboa: A member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”, Pestana Palace is located in a 19th-century palace. It is the only resort in Lisbon and has a lake pool, a spa, and large gardens.
Bairro Alto Hotel:This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. It is uncommon for a luxury hotel of this standard to be located here. It is also the only luxury boutique hotel in Lisbon that has under 100 rooms.
Jupiter Lisboa: This 4-star hotel is located near Campo Pequeno. Although it is not in the center of the city, you can get to Baixa-Chiado in 15 minutes through transportation. Jupiter has everything you need for a luxurious vacation at an affordable price.
Portugal is filled with picturesque villages that provide a glimpse into the country’s fascinating culture and history. Every corner of Portugal features villages with charming stone cottages, captivating cobblestone alleys, and ancient fortresses that have stood the test of time.
If you’re looking to explore the most beautiful and enchanting villages in Portugal, you’ve come to the right place. From the stunning mountain village of Monsanto to the historic fortress town of Almeida, let’s take a look at the 8 most picturesque villages in Portugal.
(Updated May 2026)
1. Monsanto
Monsanto is a unique village, famous for its rocky terrain and awarded as “the most typical Portuguese village of all” in a 1938 contest during the Estado Novo regime. It is officially recognized as one of Portugal’s historical villages and has a rich history dating back to the country’s foundation. Monsanto was once under the possession of the Order of the Knights Templar.
As you walk through the village, you will find narrow, winding streets and stairways that lead to the castle at the top of the hill. The castle is a prominent feature of Monsanto and was featured in HBO’s House of the Dragon. It is a fortified castle built in 1165 by Gualdim Pais, master of the Knights Templar.
Aside from its rich history, Monsanto is also known for its delicious local cuisine. The village’s restaurants serve up a variety of traditional dishes that are made with locally-sourced ingredients.
One of the best ways to see Monsanto is through a full-day tour with a guide. Not only does this resolve any transportation issues to this remote area, but this way, you get to learn all the interesting facts about the area.
Monsanto. Photo by Maksym Pozniak (Unsplash)
2. Óbidos
Óbidos is a charming medieval village in Portugal that will transport you back in time. Surrounded by an impressive castle wall on a hill, Óbidos is one of Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations.
The white houses adorned with bright flowers and Gothic-style windows create a stunning contrast against the blue sky. The castle is the main attraction in Óbidos, and for a good reason. This 12th-century castle is incredibly well-preserved and is now a luxury hotel.
You can explore the castle walls and towers, with a walk on the ramparts offering panoramic views of the village. You cannot leave Óbidos without trying the famous cherry liqueur, Ginja de Óbidos, which is served in a chocolate cup and can be found in every bar and restaurant in town.
Óbidos is also famous for its traditional Portuguese pottery. Local artisans sell handmade pottery with intricate designs and beautiful colors. You’ll also find a variety of locally handmade products, including hand-woven linens and traditional Portuguese ajulezo tiles.
Obidos. Photo by Henrique Ferreira (Unsplash)
3. Piodão
Piodão is a hidden gem tucked away in the Serra do Açor Mountains in Central Portugal. This charming village features stone houses with traditional blue-painted doors and windows located on a hillside with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Many of these traditional houses have been transformed into quaint shops and cafes.
Keep in mind that Piodão is known for being incredibly remote with limited transportation available, but the journey to this picturesque village is worth the effort.
The village of Piodão is incredibly well-preserved, and the locals have done an excellent job of maintaining its authenticity. The village’s streets are paved with ancient stones and are narrow and winding, with a few shops and cafes dotted around the village.
If you’re a nature lover, Piodão is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty of the Serra do Açor Mountains with incredible hiking trails.
Piodão. Photo by Daniel Páscoa (Unsplash)
4. Almeida
Almeida is a fortified village located in the district of Guarda in the north of Portugal, close to the border with Spain. This charming village is known for its impressive star-shaped fortress, which was built in the 17th century to protect Portugal from Spanish invasion. Today, the fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts tourists from around the world.
The village of Almeida is also home to a variety of other historical landmarks, including the Igreja Matriz de Almeida, a beautiful Baroque church with a collection of religious artifacts.
Almeida also features quaint streets and squares, which are lined with traditional Portuguese houses and small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
If you’re in Almeida in April, do not miss the annual Medieval Fair, which brings the village to life with colorful costumes, music, and dance performances.
Almeida. Photo by Frayle (Flickr)
5. Marvão
Located on a hilltop near the Spanish border, Marvão is one of the most stunning fortified villages in Portugal. The village’s medieval castle, which dates back to the 13th century, is a sight to be seen. It has been beautifully restored and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Walking through the narrow streets of Marvão is like getting into a time machine to medieval times. The village is full of historical buildings and charming houses, many of which date back to the 16th century. The village’s whitewashed buildings give it a unique character that is unlike other villages in the country.
In addition to the castle, Marvão has several other historical sites worth visiting. The village’s 16th-century church, Igreja de Santa Maria, is a must-see. The church features a beautiful Renaissance doorway and an impressive Baroque altar. There is also a small museum in the village that displays local artifacts and showcases the Marvão’s rich history.
Castelo de Marvão. Photo by Rach Sam (Unsplash)
6. Monsaraz
Monsaraz is a village known for its charm and authenticity. Located in the Alentejo region, Monsaraz features white-washed houses, cobbled streets, and medieval castle ruins. This village is also famous for its breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves.
Monsaraz is a small village with a population of just over 700 people. However, despite its size, it has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The village was once a fortified town that played a crucial role in protecting the region from invasion.
One of the most impressive sights in Monsaraz is its castle ruins. The castle dates back to the 14th century and was an essential location during the battles between Portugal and Castile.
We recommend climbing to the top of the castle and enjoying the panoramic views of the village!
Monsaraz. Photo by Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie (Unsplash)
7. Belmonte
Located in Castelo Branco, Belmonte is famous for being the birthplace of Pedro Álvares Cabral, the navigator who “discovered” Brazil. The village is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Cova da Beira valley and is surrounded by the Serra da Estrela mountain range.
Belmonte is known for its Jewish heritage as it is home to one of the oldest Jewish communities in Portugal, dating back to the 12th century. We recommend exploring the Jewish Museum, which tells the story of this community in the region.
This village is also known for its stunning medieval castle from the 13th century, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For nature lovers, Belmonte also has plenty of hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.
Belmonte Castle. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
8. Santana (Madeira)
Located along the northern coast of Madeira island, Santana is a charming village surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning mountains, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
In 2011, Santana became a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO due to its diverse ecosystem. Santana features rich landscapes with unique cultural and environmental value, including a mountainous environment that occupies river valleys. There are 120 kilometers of biosphere walking routes to discover.
Santana features a unique architectural style known mainly for the traditional Santana houses in red, white, and blue, with thatched roofs. Some of the houses have been converted into shops and restaurants, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Madeiran cuisine and handicrafts.
Santana has several other attractions worth visiting, including the Madeira Theme Park, which offers an immersive experience of Madeira’s history, culture, and traditions.
The village is also home to the Parque das Queimadas, a beautiful park with walking trails that lead to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Traditional Santana house. Photo by Reiseuhu (Unsplash)
Cascais, a charming coastal town located just a short drive from Lisbon, is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit. With its picturesque beaches and historic landmarks, Cascais has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for some sunbathing or exploring the town’s rich history, you’ll find several activities in Cascais. Let’s take a look at the 9 best things to do in Cascais.
The historical center of Cascais is the heart of this picturesque town which is 100% walkable. If there’s one thing to do in Cascais, exploring the historical center is a must-see. Cascais dates back to the 12th century and has a rich architecture which can be seen in the narrow cobblestone streets and quaint houses.
We recommend exploring all of the historical center but if you need some guidance, we recommend heading to Rua Frederico Arouca first. This is one of the main streets in Cascais, this street features many shops, restaurants, and street artists.
Also, head to Praça 5 de Outubro, the main square in Cascais where the Municipal building stands, with views of the beach. Fun fact, the former Portuguese president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, often bathes on this beach as he lives nearby.
Cascais. Photo by Ilse Stokking (Unsplash)
2. Explore the Cascais Marina
Founded in 1999, the Cascais Marina is a modern marina located on the western side of Cascais Bay. The marina has 650 berths that can accommodate boats up to 35 meters long. It is a popular destination for yachts and sailing enthusiasts.
However, the Marina has been renovated in the past few years and is not just a place for boat lovers. It features incredible restaurants, luxury stores, and cafes that are perfect for visiting on a sunny day. We recommend stopping for lunch in one of the marina’s restaurants, namely Marisco na Praça or La Brasserie de l’Entrecôte, known for their iconic steak.
Cascais Marina. Photo by CALIN STAN (Unsplash)
3. Farol de Santa Marta Museum
The Farol Museu de Santa Marta is another must-see! This historic lighthouse museum is housed in the former lighthouse keeper’s residence and showcases the history and evolution of lighthouses and maritime navigation in Portugal.
You can explore the restored living conditions of the lighthouse keeper and his family, check out the original equipment used in the lighthouse, and climb to the top of the tower for stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area.
There are guided tours, educational programs, and workshops for both adults and kids, as well as a gift shop to grab some souvenirs.
Farol de Santa Marta Museum. Cascais. Photo by Jean Carlo Emer (Unsplash)
4. Casa da Guia
Casa da Guia is an outdoor shopping and dining complex located in a historic mansion that was built in the early 1900s and was originally the home of a wealthy Portuguese family.
Today, Casa da Guia is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its unique blend of history, culture, and shopping. The complex features a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes, all set in beautiful gardens overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Visitors to Casa da Guia can explore the mansion’s original rooms and architecture, which have been carefully restored to preserve their historic character.
One of the highlights of Casa da Guia is its wide range of dining options, which includes everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine to Italian and Japanese restaurants.
Casa da Guia, Cascais. Photo by Manuel Inglez (Unsplash)
5. Ice cream at Santini
The most famous ice cream shop in Portugal is called Santini. Founded in 1949 by Attilio Santini, this ice cream shop has been selling artisanal gelato with incredibly ingredients for decades and is a Cascais staple. The first shop was actually opened in Tamariz, but now there are various around the country.
You will find a wide variety of flavors, including traditional favorites like chocolate and vanilla, as well as more unique options like passion fruit and cinnamon. The gelato is made fresh every day on-site using traditional Italian techniques and recipes, so you are in for a unique experience.
We recommend grabbing a gelato and then taking a walk through Cascais, perhaps stopping at some nearby beaches such as Praia da Rainha for the views.
Santini, Cascais. Photo by F Delventhal (Flickr)
6. Enjoy the sunset at the local beaches
The center of Cascais features several beautiful beaches that are within walking distance from each other. These beaches feature golden sands and transparent waters in the summer, which is rare in Portugal. The water also tends to be calmer than in other places, although the beaches can be quite smaller and become full in the summer.
Just a few minutes walk from the center, you will find Praia da Conceiçāo, Praia da Duquesa, and Praia da Rainha. Many of these feature bars and cafes, as well as sun loungers to rent, and even activities such as paddling.
Praia da Rainha, Cascais. Photo by Alice Butenko alivka (Unsplash)
7. Take the train to Estoril
Estoril is less than a 10-minute train ride from Cascais, which is a ride that features beautiful views of the ocean. With its stunning beaches and picturesque landscape, Estoril is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
Along with amazing beaches and restaurants, the town also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars and clubs to suit all tastes. Estoril is also home to several important landmarks, including the Estoril Casino, which dates back to the early 20th century and is one of the largest casinos in Europe.
Photo by Sofia Lupi (Unsplash)xtk
8. Visit Guincho
A 15-minute drive from the center of Cascais, Praia do Guincho is in our opinion the best beach on the Portuguese Riviera, boasting large Atlantic ocean waves known for surfing, even in the winter. The Guincho shoreline is around 1 kilometer, making it perfect for enjoyable walks on the beach.
You can also enjoy some lunch and drinks at Bar do Guincho, which has a beautiful view of the ocean and the cliffs. However, on this side of the bar, near the bar, the beach can get quite busy in the summer, so we recommend parking your car near Estalagem Muchaxo and enjoying this side of the beach.
If you can’t drive to Guincho, there’s a bus from the center of Cascais that takes 30 minutes.
Praia do Guincho. Photo by Manuel Inglez (Unsplash)
9. Private sailing cruise
Why not explore Cascais on a private sailing cruise? This luxurious cruise will take you through the coast, stopping at various spots: the Cascais Marina, Palacio Cidadela Cascais, Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum, Praia da Conceicao, and Estoril.
You will also have a chance to swim in the gorgeous waters and sunbathe on the deck, making it the perfect way to explore the coastal town. You can choose from a half-day or full-day trip, and there’s free cancellation for up to 24 hours.
Porto, a popular city in northern Portugal, lives and breathes art and culture. From traditional shops and galleries to monuments and street art across the city, there’s a little bit of art on every corner.
The hardest part is knowing where to start. So, we have gathered a few places that are the best when it comes to contemporary art and small businesses, the heart and soul of Portuguese artists.
Each place has its individual voice, style, and uniqueness. Without a doubt, monotony has no place here. Let’s dig into the top 5 contemporary art galleries in Porto.
(Updated May 2026)
1. Cor Própria – Galeria Pop Up
Located in the famous art street of Porto, in the Centro Comercial Bombarda, Cor Própria – Galeria Pop Up was founded in 2022 as an extension to another gallery.
This pop up gallery has a different mission from most galleries. Every month, this gallery transforms into a new place according to a theme, a color, and an artist, being able to give the spotlight to different local artists.
Here, you will be able to find the real crafts of different Portuguese artists, and you might find such unique pieces, some made especially for that gallery. There are illustrations, ceramics, stationary, and many other pieces. It’s a must visit, and every month you will find something new.
The gallery is open from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm and is closed on Sundays.
2. Ó! Galeria
Ó! Gallery, located in the artsy Miguel Bombarda street has been open since 2009 and works as a place to showcase artists’ pieces, illustrations, books, and even t-shirts and tote bags.
This space also collaborates with new artists that are mostly young, both local and international. A place that breathes color and art, there’s always space to get to know a new artist.
In 2020, the Ó! Gallery added a new space to the family, the Ó! Ceramic, dedicated to ceramics, a place where you can find workshops and a studio.
Please keep in mind that the gallery is open from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm and is closed on Sundays.
Photo provided by gallery.
3. Squid Ink Works
Located on an international street with a variety of businesses, Squid Ink Works was founded in 2018 by two artists. This independent and unique store sells all types of artsy pieces, including artworks, paintings, tote bags, notebooks, postcards, illustrations, and many more.
All of these are made by the owners and a few other artists, so you can always find different styles of art. Every month, new works are presented and they also organize workshops, events, and even concerts.
Visiting Squid Ink Works is a must when visiting Porto, there’s always something new happening there.
Squid Ink Works is open 10:00 am – 6:00 pm every day.
Photo provided by gallery.Photo provided by gallery.
4. Circus Network
First imagined in 2012 as part of a thesis, Circus Network is located near Miguel Bombarda street, also known as the arts block. This place functions as a gallery, store, CoWork space, and creative agency, but always with one mission in hand – exploring creativity.
This has been one of the most important spaces for urban art in the city, giving exposure to many local artists and selling unique and original pieces. You can also find graffiti material, clothes, books, records, and other amazing products.
The Circus Network was the first project to promote the first legal mural for urban art, where artists can give wings to their creativity and express their art. Their main mission is to promote new talent and young artists in different fields.
If you are looking to find new artists or get your creativity flowing, the Circus Network is the right place.
Circus Network is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Where once stood a Portuguese bakery located in the city’s historical center has now become an art gallery and ceramics store. Once you step into Padaria Águas Furtadas, you are welcomed by a space dedicated to design, craftwork, illustration, clothing, and local art.
This space gathers art pieces from not only local artists but also expats living in the city. You might find books, photography, mugs, tote bags, and many other unique pieces. As a ceramic store, there’s a wide range of amazing, handmade pieces like no other in the world.
If you ever want a unique souvenir from Porto, this is the place to visit.
The gallery is open every day from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
Photo provided by gallery. Address: Galeria Cor Própria – CCB Rua Miguel Bombarda 285 Loja 15
Final Thoughts
Porto is overflowing with art, with young artists looking to show the world their work, with old souls keeping traditions alive, and craftwork that passes on from generation to generation without losing its roots but always adapting and improving.
These are only a few of the many spaces in the city where you will find creativity in every inch and detail. Don’t miss out and be inspired by them.
**I partnered with Prime School International to write this post. All opinions are my own.
When Edite Reina, a French-born diplomat then serving as consul for Costa Rica in Portugal, sat down with her engineer husband to reimagine what education could look like, they didn’t start with a vision of making the fanciest campus or offering high-end sports facilities to the students. They were thinking about their three children and the gap between what classrooms were offering and what the world was beginning to demand. That conversation ultimately became Prime School International in Portugal, founded in 2007, and now one of the country’s most respected international schools with three campuses spread across Alvalade in Lisbon, Estoril next to Cascais, and the nearby hills of Sintra.
Ms. Reina, who today serves as CEO and Executive Director of Prime School International in Portugal, grew up in France in the 1960s and experienced firsthand an educational model built entirely around the teacher as the sole authority on the truth and what was important for students to absorb in the classroom. Rote memorization was encouraged in every classroom. Students were asked to regurgitate facts and figures, often not being asked how the subject matter related to the world they saw around them. Students were graded on their ability to reproduce information rather than understand it. There was no internet, no way to cross-reference what a teacher said, no culture of inquiry. “What was important was the results, the grades,” she has said of that era. “It was not important if you understood.”
Her husband, an engineer with connections to the European Space Agency, shared her conviction that the future would require something different: students who could think, adapt, and apply knowledge to real problems. Together they saw an opening in Portugal’s international education landscape. At the time, the country had very few international schools and none operating under the Cambridge Curriculum. Prime School International in Portugal was established to fill that void, built on the belief that education should be practical, personal, and purposeful. The school received its Cambridge International accreditation in 2009, expanded to a second campus in Estoril in 2019, and opened its flagship Lisbon campus in the Alvalade district in 2023. Today the institution employs more than 250 professionals across its teaching, technical, and administrative teams.
An Aerospace Mindset Applied to Education
One of the most distinctive aspects of Prime School International in Portugal is the intellectual framework its founders brought to the project. Edite and her husband did not simply import an already-existing curriculum and open a school. They applied the kind of precision-oriented thinking that comes from aerospace engineering to the design of educational management. The school’s quality systems are modeled on industrial processes used in aviation and space industries, which is part of what led to its ISO 9001:2015 certification, an externally audited, continuously improving quality standard that Prime became the first private international school in Portugal to earn.
This ethos runs through the daily work of the school. Carlos Miguel Almeida, the school’s quality director, has described the approach in concrete terms: each student has clearly defined objectives, measurable benchmarks, and continuous multidisciplinary monitoring. Every student’s progress is tracked, and no student goes through the system unnoticed. The certification extends across all three campuses and covers both academic operations and the boarding program.
At Prime International School, the focus is on developing each student’s path toward success, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
The Prime Scientific Method and the Prime Program
Central to everything Prime School International in Portugal does is its proprietary Prime Scientific Method, an approach designed to decode each student’s individual cognitive and emotional profile and construct a learning journey around it. Alongside this sits the Prime Program, which integrates AI and STEM-focused projects from the earliest years of schooling, which ensures that students build both the analytical habits of mind and the practical confidence to apply what they learn.
The school’s philosophy insists that academic excellence and human development are not separate goals. CEO and Executive Director Edite Reina has summarized this as a commitment to excellence and the formation of genuine leaders rather than students who simply perform well on examinations. In practice, this means that the school invests in resident psychological support, developing an international mindset and strong ethics in addition to the standard academic curriculum.
A School Built around the Cambridge Pathway
Prime School International was one of the first international schools in Portugal to implement the Cambridge Pathway, a globally recognized framework that takes students from Early Years at age three through to A Levels at age 19. Prime received its Cambridge accreditation in 2009 and has delivered the full pathway for more than fifteen years.
Cambridge Early Years introduces children to learning through play, covering language, mathematics, creative expression, physical development, and an understanding of the world around them. Cambridge Primary expands this into a broad curriculum including English, Science, Computing, Arts, Music, and Physical Education. Cambridge Lower Secondary deepens the work across more than ten subjects, building critical thinking and culminating in internationally benchmarked Checkpoint assessments. The IGCSE years, widely regarded as the world’s most popular international qualification for students aged 14 to 16, offer more than 70 subject choices. At the top of the pathway, Cambridge A Levels, studied in three to four subjects at depth, serve as the gold standard for university entrance across the globe.
The Cambridge Curriculum is recognized by more than 2,350 universities across 90 countries including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, and MIT. The school’s current university placement rate is 97%, and Prime students consistently progress to Russell Group institutions, Ivy League universities, and other leading programs worldwide.
Three Campuses, Three Distinct Personalities
While the three Prime School International campuses share a curriculum, a philosophy, and a set of core values, each has developed its own distinctive character shaped by its location and the students it attracts. All three are easily accessible from across the greater Lisbon metropolitan area, and families are welcome to arrange a private tour or virtual campus visit through the school’s website.
Prime School Lisbon – The Alvalade Campus
The Lisbon campus is located in Alvalade, one of the capital’s most distinguished residential neighborhoods easily accessible by metro on Lisbon’s Green Line. Opened in 2023, it serves students from age three to 18 and is the newest of the three campuses.
Learning at the Prime School Alvalade Campus, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
What makes the Alvalade campus truly stand out is its boarding program, one of the most comprehensive available at any international school in Portugal. Prime Boarding Lisbon is designed for students aged 13 to 18 and goes far beyond standard dormitory accommodation. The residence offers 120 premium suites in twin and quad configurations that all feature designer study areas. Students have the opportunity to live with their peers from more than 30 countries, which prepares them for life at university in the future.
The structure of residential life is designed to develop the whole student. Mornings begin at 7:00 am with optional sunrise fitness or mindfulness sessions followed by a chef-prepared breakfast. In the afternoons, students can attend guided study labs led by Cambridge curriculum teachers and university counselors. In the evenings, students have dinner together, and the days end with quiet reading time, a digital curfew, and sleep routines designed to support their academic performance. Wellbeing is taken seriously throughout: the boarding house is staffed around the clock with a nurse, a safeguarding officer, and a resident psychologist. Parents have access to a live family portal that provides updates on attendance, meal choices, progress notes, and photo highlights.
The annual residence fee is €22,000 per year excluding academic tuition, and includes five daily meals, weekly laundry and housekeeping, study coaches, career mentoring, and transport between the Lisbon, Sintra, and Estoril campuses. Weekend cultural and outdoor adventures in and around Lisbon are also included. When combined with annual academic tuition, the total cost of a boarding place at Prime Lisbon is broadly comparable to leading British boarding schools, but within one of Europe’s safest capital cities. The boarding program carries the same ISO 9001 certification as the academic campuses independently verified by SGS.
Beyond boarding, the Alvalade campus benefits from its position at the center of Lisbon’s cultural and professional life. Students have access to the city’s arts, technology, and sports ecosystem as a natural extension of their education. Strategic partnerships with organizations including Les Roches and the Pestana Hotel Group extend the learning environment into real-world professional settings and give students connections and experiences that go well beyond what a classroom can provide.
In the heart of the city, the Prime School Alvalade Campus offers on-site accommodation and space to play, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
The BTEC Vocational Program
The Alvalade campus is also an approved Pearson BTEC center that extends the educational journey into higher national qualifications.
BTEC stands for Business and Technology Education Council. It is a vocational qualification framework originally developed in the United Kingdom and now awarded internationally through Pearson, the global education company. Rather than preparing students primarily through exams and theoretical coursework, BTEC programs are built around practical, industry-relevant learning: assignments, projects, and real-world work experience in a specific field. They are available at multiple levels, from the equivalent of GCSEs all the way up to the equivalent of a foundation degree, and they are widely accepted by universities and employers as a credible alternative to the traditional A Level route for students who learn better by doing than by sitting examinations.
The Alvalade vocational programs offered through Prime School reflect a founding conviction that academic and vocational education deserve equal respect. A student taking a BTEC receives an education that integrates real industry experience from day one, places students inside companies, and ensures they graduate with genuine professional credentials rather than theory alone.
The Alvalade BTEC program offers programs from Level 2 through to Level 5 that cover Business, Applied Science, Health and Social Care, Computing, E-sports, Fashion and Textiles, Fine Art, Interior Design, Architectural Technology, Marketing, Policing, Sport, and Travel and Tourism.
Prime School Alvalade Campus, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
Prime School Estoril
The Estoril campus opened in 2019 and serves students from age three to 18, with a particular emphasis on sport, arts, and sciences. Students here benefit from the physical and mental grounding that comes from learning in a genuinely beautiful natural environment between the Atlantic coastline and the Sintra mountain range in the town of Alapraia, and the campus has developed a strong culture around sports and the natural environment that complements the rigorous Cambridge academic program.
Working hard at the Prime School Estoril Campus, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
The campus of Estoril apart has some truly unique facilities including a flight simulator, the only one you will find in any international school in Portugal, inspired by the founder’s certification as trained pilots. For students interested in aviation, aerospace, or engineering, the simulator provides hands-on exposure to applied science that most schools cannot offer at any price. It is the kind of resource that speaks to the founding DNA of the institution: a school built by people with aerospace and scientific backgrounds who believed that education should have a real-world connection.
The Prime School Estoril Campus offers classes from K-12, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
Perhaps even more remarkable is the approach to university guidance. The Estoril principal personally walks each student through the university application process from start to finish, creating a genuine one-on-one coaching relationship in which the principal assesses each student’s academic strengths, ambitions, learning style, and life goals, then works with them individually to identify the university programs that will serve them best. This process reflects the same founding philosophy that shaped Prime from the beginning: no student should be invisible, and every student deserves a path designed around who they actually are.
The Prime School Estoril Campus feels like stepping into the forest less than 30 minutes from Lisbon, Photo courtesy of Prime School InternationalThe flight simulator at Prime School International Estoril Campus, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Prime School Sintra
The Sintra campus is where Prime School International’s story began. Founded by Edite Reina and her husband in 2008 in Portela de Sintra, it was the original expression of their vision for what education could become. Today it serves students from the first year of formal schooling (age 4-5) through to Year 9 and is structured around two bilingual pathways: Cambridge delivered in English + German, or Cambridge delivered in English + French. Portuguese is offered as an extracurricular activity.
For families with ties to Germany or France, or for parents who want their children to develop genuine trilingual fluency from an early age, the Sintra campus provides a structured pathway. Class sizes are intentionally kept small in order to ensure that every child receives the personalized attention that builds both confidence and capability.
Students who begin their journey in Sintra and stay until Year 9 can then continue their education at either the Estoril or Lisbon campus, where they move through the IGCSE years and on to A Levels before progressing to universities around the world. The continuity of the Cambridge Pathway makes this transition, and families who start in Sintra enter a community accustomed to welcoming students from dozens of countries and guiding them all the way through to university.
Learning German at Prime School International Sintra Campus, Photo by Becky Gillespie
What Makes Prime School Different
There is no shortage of international schools in the Lisbon area. Several offer impressive campuses with large sports complexes and cutting-edge facilities. While Prime School International in Portugal may not offer the most premium facilities in terms of architecture, it offers instead something considerably rarer and, for many families, ultimately more valuable.
The student-to-teacher ratio at Prime is among the lowest available in the region. In practical terms, this means teachers actually know every student on a first-name basis. They are keenly aware of each student’s special mix of abilities and struggles. They are able to adapt each student’s learning to their interests and meet them where they are. This is the promise at the core of the Prime methodology: a proprietary approach that combines the rigor of Cambridge with real-time personalized tracking through an integrated digital platform.
The Prime School Alvalade Campus offers a hands-on learning experience with your child, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
To give one example of how Prime School can develop a student’s interests. Ms. Reina described the case of a student who wanted to become an actress and whose father worried that the school lacked a formal drama program. Rather than dismissing the concern, the school had a meeting, consulted its teachers, and designed a tailored approach: additional English instruction, literature chosen to engage the student’s theatrical instincts, and a challenge to produce a performance entirely under the student’s own direction. The following Christmas, the student organized and directed a full production, designed the costumes with her mother, built the set, and cast her classmates in every role.
This kind of responsiveness is at the core of how Prime operates. The school firmly believes that the purpose of education is to develop human beings who understand why they are learning, where their knowledge will take them, and who they want to become.
Supporting Every Students with Special Educational Needs
One of the areas where Prime’s philosophy is most clearly visible is in its approach to students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). At a time when many schools treat SEN students as logistical challenges rather than learners to be developed, Prime has built a comprehensive and individualized program around dedicated teachers who work with each SEN student. Teachers adapt materials to match each student’s learning style while specialists in psychology, sensory processing, and developmental support provide targeted one-on-one work in addition to integration into the main classroom.
Joining a School School That Feels Like a Family
When parents and staff are asked to describe Prime School International in Portugal, they often say that the school feels like a family. This comparison is not accidental. It was the deliberate design of a founder who started the project because she was dissatisfied with what conventional education was doing for children, and who believed that getting it right meant building a place where each children could be heard, encouraged to grow, and not be ignored.
Prime School International is not the flashiest school in the Lisbon area. It does not have the largest sports complex or the most elaborate campus architecture. What it has is more than fifteen years of accumulated experience, a Cambridge curriculum recognized by the world’s leading universities, a proprietary methodology built around knowing each student as an individual, an ISO 9001 certification that independently verifies its quality across all three campuses, a flight simulator in Estoril that no competitor can match, university guidance of rare personal depth, and a boarding program in Lisbon at the Alvalade campus that gives international students a genuine home. Behind all of it is a CEO who still believes, with the conviction of someone who has watched hundreds of young people grow up inside this institution, that education has one purpose: to help students understand who they are, what they are capable of, and where they are going.
Families interested in any of the three Prime campuses can contact the school at [email protected] or by calling +351 21 923 54 96. For inquiries regarding admission, please contact [email protected]. Virtual tours of all three campuses, full curriculum details, and information on fees and open days are available at www.primeschool.pt.
Learning the Cambridge Curriculum at Prime International School, Photo courtesy of Prime School International
It finally happened! After months of political back-and-forth, Constitutional Court reviews, and widespread speculation about whether it would ever reach the finish line, Portugal’s revised Nationality Law is now a done deal. President António José Seguro promulgated the legislation on May 3, which officially ended the uncertainty that had hung over foreign nationals, immigration lawyers, and pending applicants across the country.
Although Seguro finally signed the bill into law, the signing was not exactly enthusiastic. Seguro made it clear in his statement on the presidency’s website that he had reservations about the process even as he put his name on the document. He argued that a law of this significance, one that the legal system classifies as having “reinforced value,” deserved broader political consensus than it received. However, Seguro’s hands were essentially tied because, with a two-thirds parliamentary majority behind the legislation, a veto would have accomplished very little. Thus, it was expected that Seguro would sign the bill as a two-thirds majority in Parliament would override any veto.
How We Got Here
The road to this version of the law was long and winding. An earlier version was sent to the Constitutional Court for preventive review, which declared four provisions unconstitutional, three of them unanimously. Lawmakers revised those provisions and passed a second version on April 1, with 152 votes in favor and 64 against. The governing Social Democratic Party (PSD) passed it alongside Chega, IL, and CDS-PP, over objections from the Socialist Party, Livre, PCP, Bloco de Esquerda, and PAN.
The Socialist Party chose not to request another round of constitutional review for the revised Nationality Law itself, though it did submit the companion criminal penalty decree for review. The president also declined to refer any provisions of the Nationality Law to the Constitutional Court before signing.
The law now heads to the Diário da República for publication. Once the law is published, it will take effect. This is expected within five working days, and the law will take effect the day after publication in the Diário da República.
What Changes Now
The most significant practical change is the extension of time it will take to obtain citizenship. Under the previous law, five years of legal residence qualified most foreign nationals to apply for Portuguese citizenship. Now, that number officially doubles to ten years for citizens of countries outside the European Union. For nationals from EU member states and citizens of CPLP nations, including Brazil, Angola, Cape Verde, and others, the length of time now increases to seven years.
That would be substantial enough on its own, but there is another change that is important to keep in mind. Under a 2024 amendment, the residency clock had been allowed to start when an applicant submitted their request for a residence permit, a protection designed to insulate people from bureaucratic slowdowns at the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA). The new law reverses that. The clock now starts only when AIMA actually issues the permit/residence card.
Given that AIMA has routinely taken two to three years to process permit applications, legal professionals now estimate the actual timeline for many applicants could stretch to somewhere between nine and thirteen years. Seguro appeared to be aware of this issue when he signed the law, as he noted in his statement the importance of ensuring that “the counting of legally fixed timelines for obtaining nationality is not affected by the slowness of the state.” That language carries no binding legal force, but it may influence how courts interpret disputes that arise from processing delays.
Children Born in Portugal Face New Hurdles
Under the previous framework, a child born in Portugal automatically qualified for Portuguese citizenship if one parent had been residing in the country for at least one year, regardless of that parent’s legal status. The revised law restricts that right significantly. Now, one parent must have been legally residing in Portugal for at least five years before the child can claim citizenship by birth.
Seguro addressed this directly in his signing statement. He emphasized that stricter criteria does not prevent the indispensable humanitarian protection and the desirable integration of children and minors born in Portugal. He called on future governments to give special attention to protecting children in this category especially with regard to access to health care and education under existing law. Whether that aspiration translates into durable policy remains to be seen.
What Was Eliminated
Two specific pathways to Portuguese nationality that had existed for years are now gone. The program allowing descendants of Sephardic Jews to claim Portuguese nationality, introduced in 2015, has now been eliminated. In addition, the regime that applied to people born in former Portuguese overseas territories that became independent, who remained in Portugal, and their children born on Portuguese soil has also now been abolished. Both programs were designed to address gaps left by the 1975 nationality framework.
One Part of the Nationality Law Is Still Unresolved
Seguro signed only one of the two decrees that arrived on his desk after the April 1 vote. A separate measure that would have amended the Penal Code to create loss of nationality as an accessory criminal penalty is still suspended, pending a Constitutional Court ruling. The court had already struck down a similar provision when it reviewed the first version of the legislation. Whether the revised formulation survives is still an open question.
For investors who came through the Golden Visa program, the news is more limited in scope than some feared. Permanent residency after five years remains unchanged. The new timelines apply specifically to citizenship and not to residency status itself.
Here’s a “Final Thoughts” section to close out the article:
Final Thoughts
Portugal’s revised Nationality Law represents one of the most significant shifts in the country’s immigration framework in decades. For those already in the process of building a life here, the changes are extremely frustrating, especially given the difficulty in dealing with AIMA, but not unexpected. Longer wait times, a residency clock that now depends on the pace of a notoriously slow bureaucracy, and the elimination of long-standing pathways mean that the road to Portuguese citizenship just got considerably longer and more uncertain for a lot of people.
That said, it is worth keeping a few things in mind. Permanent residency remains unaffected, which means that those who arrived through the Golden Visa program or other routes are not losing ground on that front. What happens next depends on two things: how quickly the law is published in the Diário da República and how the Constitutional Court rules on the loss of nationality provision. Both are worth watching closely.
The Algarve is located on Portugal’s southwestern tip and is known for its picturesque towns, cuisine, and golden sand beaches. The Algarve is home to the best weather in the country, with sunny warm days all year round. Over 4 million travel to this region every year, making it one of the most popular tourist regions in Portugal for decades.
Our 10 Day Algarve Itinerary allows you to explore Algarve in 10 days, stopping at the best spots. This itinerary is best traveled by car, so we recommend renting a vehicle. Let’s take a look at how you should spend 10 days in the Algarve, with the best things to do, as well as hotel and restaurant recommendations.
(Updated May 2026)
Day 1 & 2: Faro
If you are planning a trip to the Algarve, you are probably flying to Faro Airport. The capital of the Algarve and one of the largest cities, Faro is a tourist hotspot that is close to nature and beaches but also has a cosmopolitan feel. It’s a great way to start your trip!
From Faro, you can also get to the beautiful islands in the Ria Formosa, such as Culatra. These smaller communities on islands, a few steps from the beach, are great to explore and make you feel like you are in the Caribbean.
Faro, Portugal. Photo by Alexander Savin (Flickr)
Faro: Best Things to Do
Book this tour to explore the marine life around Faro in a cruise that sets sail on the Atlantic Ocean with a marine biologist. You will get to see dolphins and bottlenose, marine birds, bluefin tuna, and maybe even orcas and sharks.
This tour allows you to sail the Ria Formosa Natural Park and visit stunning islands on a catamaran that takes up to 12 people. You can choose either the morning tour or afternoon tour, both of which provide breaks for swimming.
The best beaches in Faro are Praia de Faro, Praia da Ilha da Culatra, Praia do Farol, and Praia dos Hangares.
Just twenty minutes away from the Algarvean capital Faro, Olhão is a city that was once neglected in the Algarve. It has recently become a more visited town as more tourists discover its beauty. Olhão boasts unique cube-shaped houses, street art, incredible churches, and beautiful beaches.
Olhão. Photo by Joao A (Flickr)
Olhão: Best Things to Do
Explore the cube-shaped houses in the Bairro dos Pescadores (fishermen’s district), adorned with typical Portuguese azulejos (tiles).
Walk through the caminho das Lendas (path of the tales), featuring interesting graffiti, modern art installations, and statues are on display in five different squares, arranged in a walking route.
Visit the Mercado (market), built in 1912. All sorts of goods are for sale here – meat, poultry, fruits and nuts, baked goods, and fish.
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário (XVII century) is the main church in Olhão: the interiors boast beautiful frescos and altarpieces, while at the back sits the Capela do Senhor dos Aflitos (chapel).
Tavira was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses, and features golden beaches with warm water. While the small city is mostly known for its beaches, the quaint town allows you to visit some attractions, as well as explore shops, restaurants, and more.
Ilha de Tavira. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Unsplash)
Tavira: Best Things to Do
Enjoy a beach day in Tavira. Our favorite beach in Tavira is Praia do Barril. The beach features a wooden path over the golden sand, which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Praia de Tavira and Praia da Terra Estreita are also great alternatives in Tavira.
Walk through Tavira, explore the chapel of Sao Bras and the hundreds of other churches.
Visit Vilamoura Marina, a popular marina, a 40-minute drive away in Quarteira. You will find loads of shops, restaurants, and even a worth-while beach called Praia da Falesia.
Travel to Albufeira where you can get a Dolphins and Benagil Caves Tour. This boat tour allows you to discover dolphins, marine life, and Benagil caves in an inflatable boat. A stop for a swim is included!
Albufeira is the largest resort town on the Algarve coastline and it has been the most popular holiday destination in the south of Portugal since the 1970s. Albufeira is known mostly for its beaches, but the city also has beautiful attractions, such as the city’s old town.
Albufeira, Algarve. Photo by Kevin Walker (Unsplash)
Albufeira: Best Things to Do
Visit the stunning Benagil Cave from Albufeira by booking a tour, allowing you to swim in sea cave and maybe even do some kayaking. The Algar de Benagil is a unique seaside cave that can only be reached by boat, known for a sky-light-like hole in the roof.
Explore Albufeira’s old town’s restaurants and shops. Enjoy the views of Albufeira from the hill overlooking Praia dos Pescadores.
Spend the day at one of Albufeira’s beach. Our favorite is São Rafael Beach, mostly frequented by younger people and it is surrounded by beautiful rock formations and bushes. To get down to the beach there is a ramp with a restaurant on the sand.
A 30-minute drive from Albufeira, fly back home from Faro airport. If you rented a car at the airport, you could drop it off back here. We recommend booking a nighttime flight so you can still spend the day enjoying a beach in Albufeira or closer to Faro.
TAP Air Portugal Airbus 319 CS-TTB. Photo by Riik@mctr (Flickr)
As the oldest country in Europe with 800 years of history, Portugal has a rich culture, beautiful beaches along the coast, and delicious cuisine. It’s no surprise that millions of tourists travel to Portugal throughout the year, with numbers on the rise.
If you’re planning your visit, you might be wondering what the best things to do in Portugal are, not just some pleasant activities but the most memorable and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Let’s take a look at the 9 unforgettable things to do in Portugal in 2026.
1. Spot the waves in Nazare
Nazare is a magical place, home to the largest surfable waves on the planet, particularly in Praia do Norte. Garrett McNamara actually discovered and surfed on the biggest wave in the world in Nazare.
But a great – and perhaps safer – way to experience these waves is to head to the perfect place to observe these huge waves. The best place to spot large waves is in sitio da Nazare, right next to the lighthouse. This is also a safe place to observe the waves. Make sure not to go down to the beach at these times, as tourists have drowned before doing so.
People watching the waves in Nazare. Photo by Gil Ribeiro (Unsplash)
2. Try the best Portuguese custard tart in the world
You can get tasty Portuguese custard tarts in New York and London, but let’s be real… It’s not the same. And the same can be said within Portugal. There are thousands of bakeries with delicious pasteis de nata but only one place truly makes the best custard tart in the world.
Pasteis de Belem is the place to go as they own the original monk’s secret recipe. This 19th-century shop welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, a short walk from the Jeronimos Monastery, selling over 20,000 tarts daily.
While it first opened as a factory, today, it features a shop with take-out service and a cafe to sit down and enjoy the specialty. In 2011, the Pastel de Belem was announced as one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders of Gastronomy.
Photo by Anne Lotte (Flickr)
3. Ride the 28 Tram
One of the best ways to experience Lisbon as a local is on the number 28 tram. Although the tram is a public transport service, due to the places it rides through, think of it as an affordable but cooler tourist tour.
This tram line connects Martim Moniz with Campo do Ourique. The tram stops in popular tourist districts such as Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and grace.
In a traditional yellow tram, you will ride a scenic route through Lisbon’s narrow and steep streets, along with the other Lisbon locals who are on their daily commute.
We recommend riding the train early in the morning to avoid crowds. Make sure to beware of pickpocketers!
Tram 28. Photo by Archana Reddy (Unsplash)
4. Explore the UNESCO cultural landscape of Sintra
Receiving its UNESCO Cultural Landscape classification in 1995, Sintra is one of the most unforgettable places in Portugal. The classification includes a mountainous strip with gardens, parks, and monuments.
Sintra was swept up in the Romantic movement in the 19th century, when most of the town’s well-known landmarks came about. The Romanticist period can clearly be seen in not only the architecture and gardens of Sintra but its charm.
Today, it is a town known for its romantic forested terrain and astonishing palaces that once belonged to royal families and aristocrats. Despite the royals being gone, you still feel transported back into this time period.
5. Tour one of the oldest universities in the world
Along with the city’s uptown, the University of Coimbra was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 due to its historical significance. First founded in 1290 in Lisbon and then relocated to Coimbra in 1537, the University of Coimbra is among the world’s oldest in Portugal.
In order to really explore the University of Coimbra and its multiple buildings, we recommend booking a guided tour.
This way, you can not only admire the architecture of the university’s most important buildings but also learn everything about its history. Do not miss the Royal Palace, St. Michel’s Chapel, and the Joanine Library.
The latter is perhaps one of the most beautiful libraries in Portugal, which is set to leave you speechless. Bear in mind you are not allowed to take photos in the Joanine Library.
University of Coimbra. Photo by Henrique Macedo (Unsplash)
6. Visit the most beautiful bookstore in Porto
We might be biased, but we truly believe Lello bookstore is one of the most beautiful in the world (The Guardian agrees). Founded in 1906, it is also one of the oldest and plays a large role in the cultural heritage of Porto.
If you’ve heard of this bookstore through the JK Rowling myth, sorry to burst your bubble. The author herself confirmed that Harry Potter was not written here. However, it still holds an undeniable Harry Potter-like appearance.
The bookstore’s exterior has Neo-Gothic and Art Noveau elements and the two-story interior reflects Art Deco elements. The ample staircase and the stained glass windows make for beautiful photos.
Unfortunately, while entrance to the bookstore used to be free, this is no longer the case. Today, there is a small €5 fee to enter Lello.
Livraria Lello. Photo by Ivo Rainha (Unsplash)
7. Drink wine in the Douro valley
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Douro Valley is a cultural landscape of vineyards where Douro wines are grown and produced in traditional wine cellars. Departing from Porto, the Douro river flows in the middle of these green hills with vineyards.
You will find the highest quality cuisine and wines here, as well as incredible hotels. The most unique experience is visiting various vineyards. Many have been in the hands of families for generations.
Our three favorite vineyards to visit in the Douro Valley are Quinta da Roêda (Pinhão), Quinta do Crasto (Sabrosa), and Quinta do Seixo (Valença do Douro).
We also recommend exploring the Douro Valley by boat, as the heart of the valley is the river itself. Douro boat tours provide you with the best views of the valley, as well as stop at the best vineyards so you will get to learn about the region’s wine production.
Photo by Maksym Kaharlytskyi on Unsplash
8. Swim in the Benagil sea cave
If you’ve googled the Algarve, you have seen photos of the Benagil sea cave. The Algar de Benagil is a unique seaside cave that can only be reached by boat, known for a sky-light-like hole in the roof. The cave has been featured in top destination lists all over the globe.
The only way to reach it is to book a tour, allowing you to swim in sea cave and maybe even do some kayaking. There are boat tours from Benagil beach, but these are often too busy during the summer.
Therefore, we recommend booking a tour from another beach where not only do you get to see the Benagil cave but also the beautiful rock formations along this stretch of the coast.
Photo by 777 S (Unsplash)
9. Hike up the highest mountain in Portugal in the Azores
Mount Pico gives its name to the island of Pico in the archipelago of the Azores. Mount Pico is over 2,000 meters high, making it the tallest mountain in Portugal. The mountain stands tall in the middle of the island, almost calling you to find out what’s at the top.
Luckily, you can hike up Mount Pico. However, keep in mind this is a tough hike, one that is not to be done alone. The hike is only around 8 hours, but the rocky terrain is quite hard to walk, particularly on the way down.
However, the view at the top makes it all worth it. You will literally be above the clouds with an incredible sight, especially at sunrise.
You have to do the hike with a Certified Pico Mountain guide to avoid any injury or challenges, as there have been accidents on the mountain. You can book a guided hike here, where you will also learn about the geology, fauna, and flora of the mount.
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