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Best Surf and Yoga Retreats in Portugal (2025 Edition)

Becky Gillespie
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Best Surf and Yoga Retreats in Portugal (2025 Edition)

Portugal has established itself as a premier destination for those who want a little surf with their yoga – or vice versa. Should you choose to stay at a yoga/surf camp in the country, you will have your pick of the mainland’s endless surf from the massive waves of Nazaré to the Azorean archipelago, be able to bask in the abundant sunshine, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere that combine to create the perfect environment for these complementary practices. Here’s our guide to the best surf and yoga retreats in Portugal for 2025.

Peniche

The Peniche area has become a hotspot for surf enthusiasts of all levels with its consistent waves, beautiful beaches, and unique location. Built on a small limestone peninsula with a 10 km perimeter and Cabo Carvoeiro as its Western limit.

Aerial view of island Baleal naer Peniche, DepositPhotos.com

Boa Onda Guesthouse Peniche

Location – Praceta do Mar 1, Atouguia da Baleia

Boa Onda Guesthouse earns perfect ratings from guests who appreciate its relaxed atmosphere especially during the off-season when the crowds are thinner. The guesthouse has built a reputation for its friendly team.

Evening yoga classes with Bianca offer the perfect way to unwind after a day of surfing. Guests particularly value the quality instruction from surf teachers who provide personalized tips to improve your surf technique. The combination of morning surf sessions and evening yoga give you an ideal balance of high-energy and relaxation.

Baleal Surf Camp

Location – Praia do Baleal Campismo, Av. da Praia, Ferrel

Baleal Surf Camp has earned a devoted following for its high-quality instruction and family-friendly approach. The camp’s instructors provide challenging lessons for surfers of all levels in a warm, supportive environment where both staff and fellow surfers make everyone feel welcome from day one. The Surfer’s Nest Apartment offers comfortable accommodation options for guests, and many visitors return to Baleal Surf Camp again and again. Maybe, you will join the ranks after your first visit! 

Ericeira & Costa da Caparica

Running down the coast of Caparica, DepositPhotos.com

Puresurfcamps – Surfcamp Caparica

Location – R. Catarina Eufémia 37, Costa da Caparica

This 2-star hotel offers much more than its rating might suggest.  The highly skilled surf instructors make your learning experience enjoyable even for complete beginners. The camp supplements surf sessions with yoga classes, which gives you the chance to relax and recover from a long day trying to ride the waves. 

Accommodations are ideally located just steps from the beach and surf equipment, which allows you to get maximum time in the water. Guests appreciate the generous breakfasts and creative themed meals that will keep your palate entertained throughout the week. Veggie and vegan options are available to help cater to all surfers’ needs. 

The camp’s location gives surfers easy access to the beach, surf school, and the center of Caparica with convenient transportation from Lisbon via Uber or Bolt. Although many guests and staff speak German, all activities and surf lessons are conducted in English. Go for a beach walk or play a little table tennis to add some variety to your camp experience.

Mauka Lodge – Paddle & Surf

Location – R. Alto da Cabrita 3, Mafra

Many guests return year after year to Mauka Lodge as hosts Tiago and Reynaldo go above and beyond to make you feel included. What makes Mauka Lodge special is its ability to adapt to different surf conditions with multiple beach options available depending on the day’s weather and waves. Mauka also offers surfskating, which helps guests understand body mechanics on the board and significantly improves surfing skills. October is a particularly excellent time for surfing in the area. 

Surf Yoga Portugal

Location – Av. Colinas do Atlântico 77, Ericeira

Surf Yoga Portugal creates what guests describe as a “warm, family-like atmosphere” that makes visitors feel instantly at home. The retreat earns high marks for its exceptional yoga classes, which blend movement, music, and breathwork to nourish both body and mind.

The property features morning yoga classes with ocean views and provides shala access throughout the day for self-practice. With only 10 guests at a time, the atmosphere remains cozy and quiet. The food, prepared by Vania, receives consistent praise, while hosts Vania and Carlos are described as “kind, caring and professional.”

What sets this retreat apart is its location adjacent to excellent surf spots, creating the perfect balance of activity and relaxation. Guests particularly enjoy breakfasts with ocean views, which become a cherished daily ritual.

Group of surfers at Ribeira d’Ilhas beach next to Ericeira, DepositPhotos.com

The Salty Pelican Yoga & Surf Retreat

Location – Tv. dos Moinhos 10, Ericeira

The Salty Pelican offers comprehensive packages that include twice-daily yoga classes on a terrace overlooking the sea with different instructors, beginner surfing lessons, massage services, meditation sessions, and refreshing hikes. 

Accommodation options include shared rooms with bunk beds that are described as clean and cozy with sea views. The outdoor area features a comfortable lounge with a beautifully designed pool.

Perfect for solo travelers, The Salty Pelican provides a blend of structured activities and free time. Guests should note that, if they stay without a package, there’s no kitchen access and add-ons like laundry and breakfast come at an additional cost.

Lalitā House Yoga Camp

Location – R. dos Lírios 5, Ribamar

This 3-star hotel offers a peaceful retreat away from Ericeira’s bustle while remaining close to both the beach and a charming village. The property features a beautiful garden with clean and quiet rooms and is specifically designed for those looking for a peaceful environment.

Lalitā House focuses specifically on tranquility and mindfulness, making it the perfect place for travelers looking to truly disconnect and rejuvenate through yoga and surfing in a relaxed environment.

Azores Islands

São Miguel Island, Azores, DepositPhotos.com

Salt Lips Surfcamp Azores

Location – Estr. Regional da Ribeira Grande 1088, Ponta Delgada

Salt Lips Surfcamp on São Miguel Island offers guests a remarkable surfing experience in one of Portugal’s most pristine and unspoiled regions. 

Host Tomás, who serves as both camp manager and surf guide, expertly matches surf spots to guests’ skill levels. What sets Salt Lips apart is its location in the Azores, often called “the Hawaii of Europe” and known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and consistent Atlantic swells. Unlike other surf destinations that experience flat seasons, the Azores deliver waves year-round thanks to their unique mid-Atlantic position. The seven-day packages allow guests to fully immerse themselves in both surfing and exploring the island.  

The Azores offer water temperatures ranging from 62-72°F (17-22°C). Winter (October to March) brings bigger swells perfect for experienced surfers, while summer months feature smaller, more manageable waves ideal for beginners. The volcanic nature of the islands creates a diverse range of surf breaks from beach breaks to point breaks and reefs, all with significantly smaller crowds than mainland Portugal.

Madeira Island

Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira, DepositPhotos.com

Madeira New Wave

Location – Casas Próximas, R. Dr. João Abel de Freitas 1, Porto da Cruz

Madeira New Wave is considered the premier surf school on the island of Madeira. While primarily focused on surf instruction rather than full retreat accommodations, this school earns a place on our list for its exceptional teaching quality and unique island location.

The instructors receive consistent praise for their expertise and success with helping guests of all levels catch multiple waves during their sessions. Their 3-lesson package is particularly well-structured for beginners, with two days focused on basics and smaller waves, followed by more advanced instruction with bigger waves.

Many guests find their experience so enjoyable that they book additional lessons beyond their initial package, which is a testament to both the quality of instruction and the addictive thrill of surfing Madeira’s unique Atlantic waves.

Algarve Region

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, gives visitors a distinctive surf and yoga experience with its unique blend of Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, stunning coastline, and reliably sunny climate.

Ponta da Piedade, Lagos, Algarve, DepositPhotos.com

Tiny Whale Surf Lodge

Location – Lote 276 + 279 Colinas Verdes

Tiny Whale Surf Lodge provides the perfect launch point for your surf adventures in the Algarve, with professional instructors who work one-on-one with guests to maximize their surfing and surf skating progress.

Tiny Whale takes a comprehensive approach to surf education featuring video coaching, surf skateboarding, and mobility training. This all-encompassing methodology dramatically accelerates guests’ skill development, with even complete beginners reporting significant improvement in just one week. The small instructor-to-student ratio, with just four students per coach, ensures personalized attention. The relaxing and therapeutic yoga classes help guests recover from their active days in the water.

The lodge offers impressive amenities including a jacuzzi, a pool, and excellent food.

Deluxe Surfhouse Algarve

Location – Vivenda Telhado Verde, Cama da Vaca, Luz Lagos

Hosts Marc and Annika from Deluxe Surfhouse Algarve get high praise for their expert advice on local surfing conditions and delicious culinary creations, particularly the lemon cake – the perfect reward after a long day of surfing. 

The facility features numerous amenities including quarterpipes, surfskates, billiards, slacklining, shady spots, and a refreshing pool. 

For surfers, the property offers convenient access to numerous surf spots within 15-45 minutes by car. During summer months, the beaches provide consistent waves suitable for beginners, with Beliche and Arrifana specifically recommended for newcomers. The more versatile Amado Beach provides something for everyone. 

Best Seasons for Surf and Yoga in Portugal

Each region in Portugal offers different optimal surfing conditions throughout the year, which makes it possible to find great waves somewhere in the country regardless of when you visit.

Seasonal Guide

Autumn (September-November) – In autumn, almost all surf spots work well. The summer crowds disperse, swells start to strengthen, the water reaches its warmest temperatures, and there’s still plenty of sunshine. This is an excellent time to visit spots along the central coast like Peniche, Ericeira, and the surf areas near Lisbon. Many surf and yoga retreats consider this their prime season.

Winter (December-February) – During winter, Portugal receives strong northwest swells that bring consistent big waves to both west and southern coasts. This creates some of Europe’s best surf spots for experienced surfers. This is also when Nazaré famously produces its monster waves. Retreats often focus more on yoga during this season, with surfing scheduled during optimal weather windows.

Spring (March-May) – A transitional period with gradually improving weather and moderate swells. Many retreats offer special spring packages as the water begins to warm and conditions become more accessible for intermediate surfers.

Summer (June-August) – In summer months, smaller, gentler waves are perfect for beginners and intermediates. This is the busiest season for surf and yoga retreats, with warm weather and consistent smaller waves ideal for those learning to surf.

Final Thoughts 

Portugal offers an unbeatable combination of elements for a successful surf and yoga retreat: varied and consistent waves for all skill levels, beautiful natural settings for yoga practice, excellent climate, delicious and often plant-based cuisine, and a relaxed culture that encourages mindfulness. The diversity of its coastline means you can find the perfect condition for your skill level somewhere in the country at any time of year. Have we convinced you yet? 

Baleal, Portugal, DepositPhotos.com

The Iconic Quiosques of Lisbon – History, Culture, and How Residents Can Get a 60% Discount!

Becky Gillespie
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The Iconic Quiosques of Lisbon – History, Culture, and How Residents Can Get a 60% Discount!

It seems like you can’t go more than a few blocks without running into another one of Lisbon’s hexagonal ‘Quiosques’ (Kiosks). While they may look like standard, though inviting, spots to grab a drink around the city, there is much more history to the Lisbon ‘quiosque’ than first meets the eye.

A Rich History Reborn

In fact, the first Lisbon quiosque opened all the way back in 1869 in Rossio Square.  Originally, they served wine and beer and later expanded to include traditional snacks like fried fish, which brought together everyone from dock workers to the Lisbon elite.

The quiosques’ distinctive designs feature characteristics of the Art Nouveau movement, while the domes sitting atop them, called ‘muqarnas,’ reflect the influence of the Moorish invasion of Portugal in 711. These beautiful gathering spots provided community and a place for everyone until the 1930s.

When Salazar came into power in the 1930s, the quiosque culture quickly faded. His fascist regime, known as ‘the Estado Novo,’ aimed to promote corporatism while discouraging socializing in public. As a result, quiosques, being centers of social gathering, were neglected and ultimately abandoned.

However, in 2009, Catarina Portas, a local businesswoman, took it upon herself to restore these antique structures. Partnering with architect João Regal, she revived quiosque culture. The first to be recovered were in some of Lisbon’s most affluent areas, which included Praça das Flores, Largo Camões, and Príncipe Real. These were not only restored but adapted to fit Lisbon’s now chic society, advertising traditional inexpensive food and drinks as their selling point.

It is now estimated that approximately 70 kiosks now dot the city of Lisbon. Today, these quiosques serve coffee, beer, quick pre-work snacks, or even sit-down lunches, and they help keep the community spirit alive in the Portuguese capital.

What to Order at a Quiosque

Every quiosque offers staple items including coffee, wine, beer, sangria, cocktails, and fruit juices. Standard food options typically include sandwiches, sweet and savory pastries, and sometimes pizzas. The revival of the kiosks has also brought back certain traditional recipes.

For an authentic Lisboeta experience, look out for these local specialties:

  • Pastel de Nata: Lisbon’s world-famous custard tart – of course!
  • Beer (“imperial” (20 cl), “caneca” (50 cl), and “girafa” (1 liter)
  • Ginja/ginjinha: A sour cherry liqueur popular in the Lisbon area, sometimes served in dark chocolate cups
  • Poncha: A sweet punch-like drink from Madeira made from distilled sugar cane and fruit juice
  • Capilé: A cordial made from maidenhair syrup and orange blossom essence mixed with water
  • Carioca de Limão: A tea/infusion made with lemon peel
  • Empada: Snack-sized pies with chicken or beef filling
  • Groselha: A refreshing red currant drink
  • Leite perfumado: Milk flavored with cinnamon, lemon, and sugar
  • Licor Beirão: Portugal’s famous aromatic liqueur made from a secret herb blend, best enjoyed with ice
  • Limonada Fresca: Homemade lemonade
  • Mazagrã: A cold, sweetened coffee drink with North African origins
  • Orchata: A soft drink made from almonds, sugar, and water

Notable Quiosques to Visit

1. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

The Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara terrace offers one of the best panoramas over Lisbon, overlooking the Baixa district. On the opposite hill, you can see Alfama and Lisbon’s castle. The terrace features a wonderfully manicured garden complete with a water fountain and busts of heroes and gods from antiquity including Minerva and Ulysses. Located close to the top of the Gloria Funicular, it’s one of Lisbon’s most frequented viewpoints.

The kiosk café here is ideal for sitting back, enjoying a cold drink, and taking in the breathtaking view. As the sun sets, it becomes a romantic destination for couples, and after dark, especially on weekends, the kiosk embraces a party atmosphere.

Address – Rua de São Pedro de Alcântara

Opening Hours – Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm, Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 am

2. Jardim Dom Luis I – Quiosque do Cais

The Jardim Dom Luis is a green area outside the Time Out Market close to the Cais de Sodré train station. In the center stands the statue of the Marquis Sa da Bandeira, and to one side is a bright red kiosk. When tables and chairs around a kiosk are full of people on a sunny day, that’s a good sign. When they remain full on an overcast or rainy day, you can be sure the place is a real success story. That’s the case at this red kiosk, now named Quiosque do Cais, and it is a leading candidate for the city’s best. It’s particularly popular with families, as children can take full advantage of the adjoining playground.

What the food lacks in sophistication, it makes up for in choice and good value. There’s a full range of croissants, toasted sandwiches, pizzas, piadinas, and salads on the menu. For the early evening crowd who come before a night out, there’s a good selection of wines, spirits, sangria, and beer available too.

Address – Praça Dom Luís I

Opening Hours – Weekdays 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Weekends 10:30 am – 10:30 pm

3. Campo de Santa Clara – Quiosque Clara Clara

Located in the heart of Jardim Botto Machado park (also known as Campo de Santa Clara), this kiosk sits in a peaceful spot opposite the National Pantheon and a short stroll from Santa Apolónia station. It’s particularly popular with families thanks to the nearby playground. Quiosque Clara Clara offers a broad range of reasonably priced snacks, pastries, and beverages. On Saturdays and Tuesdays, you can also visit the Feira da Ladra flea market nearby.

Address – Campo de Santa Clara

Opening Hours – Daily 10:00 am – 7:00 pm

4. Jardim da Cerca da Graça – Quiosque Popular

Situated between the districts of Graça and Mouraria on a hillside terrace, this kiosk offers great views of the castle and city below. The garden, Jardim da Cerca Graça, was created in 2015 as part of a larger scheme to regenerate the area. There are areas for picnics and a playground for children. Since opening, this large kiosk has become an indispensable part of the area, serving cold soups, sandwiches, toast, beverages, and a daily cake selection.

Address – Calçada do Monte 46

Opening Hours – Daily 7:30 am – 10:00 pm

Jardim da Cerca da Graca at sunset, DepositPhotos.com

5. Ribeira das Naus Quiosque

Ribeira das Naus is the quayside area between Praça do Comércio and Cais do Sodré train station. The views over the river and bridge beyond make it an ideal spot to take a break, sip a lemonade, cocktail, or beer, and enjoy the atmosphere. Unsurprisingly, this kiosk can get crowded. There’s usually a hum of activity and live music during weekends and evenings. During the day, the terrace is a sunbather’s dream, while in the evening, it’s an excellent spot to watch the sunset. The menu includes a selection of pizzas, sandwiches, and sweet pastries.

Address – 5 Avenida Ribeira das Naus

Opening Hours – Weekdays 12:00 – 10:00 pm, Weekends 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

6. Praça de São Paulo – Quiosque Praça de São Paulo

This small, forgotten-looking square is home to the Igreja de São Paulo church, rebuilt in the 18th century following the 1755 earthquake and renowned for its 3D effect painted ceilings. The kiosk in the square is one of Lisbon’s original Art Nouveau constructions, which was restored and reopened in 2013. It’s a great place to sample traditional Lisbon gastronomy rarely found in restaurants or cafés, including tuna and pork sandwiches, fried squid sandwiches, lupin beans, octopus salad, coffee with ginjinha, capilé, and the red currant drink groselha.

Address – Praça de São Paulo

Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 11:00 pm

Lisbon Residents, Here Is How to Get Up to 60% Off at All Local Quiosques

To enjoy up to 60% off at any Quiosque Lisboa locations, you need to register as a client. Visit the Quiosque Lisboa website and enter your NIF (Portuguese tax number), date of birth, and email address. Remember to validate your registration within one day of signing up to activate your discount benefits across all Quiosque Lisboa and Quiosque Cais locations.

Lisbon’s quiosques offer a unique way for both residents and locals to experience the city’s culture, flavors, and community spirit. outdoor lifestyle. These charming kiosks provide the perfect setting to enjoy traditional Portuguese food while soaking in the atmosphere of this beautiful city.

View of the Luis de Camoes Square during a sunny day, in Lisbon, DepositPhotos.com

9 Best Vegan Restaurants in Porto

Becky Gillespie
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9 Best Vegan Restaurants in Porto

Porto enchants visitors with its riverside charm and port wine cellars, but the city’s culinary evolution extends far beyond traditional Portuguese fare. A thriving plant-based movement has taken root along the cobblestone streets and has transformed Porto into a vegan stronghold. Innovative chefs combine the culinary heritage of Portugal with global vegan trends to create boundary-pushing dishes. Here are nine of the best vegan restaurants to discover during your first (or next) visit to Porto.

1. Kind Kitchen

This highly-rated vegan restaurant stands out for the “kindness” it tries to infuse in every aspect of the establishment. Not only have they perfected their seitan steak and tofu nuggets, but they also offer a vegan version of the franceshina sandwich to give vegans a chance to try Porto’s most famous dish. Be kind to yourself and don’t leave without trying the chocolate mousse.

Why go? For hearty, satisfying vegan versions of Portuguese classics and international favorites in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that even appeals to non-vegans 

Address – R. de Ceuta 80

Opening Hours – Daily 12:00 PM–11:00 PM (Hours might differ on holidays)

2. Padoca Vegan Restaurant

Located just across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, this restaurant is considered by many regulars to offer the best value among Porto’s vegan dining scene. The restaurant provides an authentic Portuguese dining experience reminiscent of traditional coffee and breakfast spots, which makes it a nostalgic stop for Portuguese locals. They specialize in offering vegan versions of classic meat-based dishes including a seitan or “chicken” substitute francesinha and a vegan hot dog. But the real standout is the burgers, which many non-vegans claim is the best they’ve ever had. The combination of super friendly staff and excellent food at reasonable prices keeps visitors returning to Padoca Vegan whenever they’re in the area.

Why go? For truly incredible vegan burgers

Address – R. Pádua Correia 261

Opening Hours – Tuesdays to Saturdays, 12:00 PM –11:00 PM, Closed on Sundays and Mondays

3. Musubu Porto

Hidden at the back of an elegant home goods store and run by a lovely husband and wife team, this Porto gem offers authentic Japanese vegan cuisine in a charming setting. Choose between the indoor dining space or the relaxing outdoor terrace and enjoy thoughtfully crafted rice balls with fresh local ingredients. Almost every dish is vegan and everything is gluten free. While the food may be a bit on the pricey side, the calming vibe and incredible service and attention to detail are well worth it. 

Why go? For authentic Japanese vegan cuisine served in a laid-back setting with meticulous attention to presentation.

Address – Tv. de Cedofeita 28

Opening Hours – Tuesdays to Saturdays, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM, Closed on Sundays and Mondays

4. Apuro

This welcoming restaurant has earned the title of best vegan place in Porto from many visitors who are captivated by both the food and atmosphere. Their standout dishes include the coxinha (Brazilian croquettes), perfectly prepared potatoes, and exceptional vegan burgers that have left customers blown away. Adding to the charm is a small garden in the back and the vanilla ice cream for dessert. We’re sure that you won’t be disappointed if you visit this heartwarming restaurant. 

Why go? For comfort food classics reinvented with plant-based ingredients in a warm, welcoming environment with garden seating.

Address – R. do Breiner 236

Opening Hours – Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, 12:30-11 PM, Fridays, 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM, Saturdays: 1:00 PM-12:00 AM, Closed, Wednesdays and Sundays

5. NOLA Kitchen

This easygoing café has become a staple for health-conscious diners in Porto. It’s a nice option for vegans looking for options at any time of the day. Their overnight oats and smoothies have developed quite the following and the shakshuka with hummus and sweet dates is a real treat. Other favorites include the crispy tofu, homemade hummus, and rich hot chocolate. Beyond the food, NOLA Kitchen offers attentive service and excellent coffee, making it the perfect spot to fuel your day of Porto exploration.

Why go? For health-focused, flavor-packed breakfast and lunch options in a cool, casual setting with friendly service and terrific coffee.

Address – Praça D. Filipa de Lencastre 25

Opening Hours – Daily 9:00 AM-11:00 PM

6. Seiva Restaurante

This elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated vegan dining experience that has earned rave reviews for its artistic presentation and impeccable service. Their 8-course tasting menu is described by patrons as pure art. Each dish is meticulously presented with detailed explanations. Chef David Jesus’s innovative creations, such as the surprising massada and seaweed Brás, present unique flavor combinations, and the elegant yet welcoming space provides the perfect backdrop for what many consider a truly exceptional vegan journey. If you’re looking for a vegan restaurant for a special occasion, Seiva is your place.

Why go? For a high-end, artistic vegan tasting menu experience with exceptional service in an elegant atmosphere.

Address – R. Sarmento Pimentel 63

Opening Hours – Tuesdays, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, Wednesdays to Saturdays, 12:30 PM-3:00 PM, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, Closed on Sundays and Mondays

7. Lupin Snack Bar – Vegan à Moda do Porto

A vegan snack bar? And what is a lupin? This highly-rated snack bar presents delicious Portuguese comfort food at affordable prices (€5-10). Their veganized Portuguese classics include feijoada, francesinha, and bacalhau à brás with tofu instead of cod. Dessert options like the chocolate mousse and pastel de nata round out your vegan experience of the Portuguese classics. Located in a traditional market setting, the snack bar offers an authentic Portuguese experience where you will truly feel at home. And a lupin is a legume related to peanuts and soybeans – in case you were asking. 

Why go? For affordable, authentic veganized Portuguese classics in a traditional market setting.

Address – Centro Comercial de Cedofeita, R. de Cedofeita 451 Loja 24

Opening Hours – Tuesdays to Thursdays, 12:00 PM-3:00 PM, Fridays, 12:00 PM-7:00 PM, Saturdays, 1:00 PM-7:00 PM, Closed on Sundays and Mondays

8. Vegana by Tentúgal

This simple yet delightful eatery has won the hearts of visitors with its incredible value and homemade approach to Portuguese vegan cuisine. Try another veganized version of the francesinha or one of the daily specials, which range from hearty stews to creative reinterpretations of traditional dishes like bacalhau à brás with tofu. At just €6-8 for a complete meal (including a starter and main), the restaurant offers exceptional value without compromising on quality. The kind, hard-working owner has created a welcoming atmosphere that complements the delicious, unpretentious food.

Why go? For incredibly affordable, homemade vegan Portuguese cuisine with daily specials and a warm, personal touch from the dedicated owner.

Address – R. de Santo Ildefonso 412 

Opening Hours – Wednesdays to Sundays, 11:30 AM-7:00 PM, Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

9. Venn Canteen

This exceptional restaurant has earned a reputation as one of Porto’s premier vegan dining experiences. Visitors consistently praise their multi-course tasting menu, where the knowledgeable staff explain each beautifully presented dish. The generous portions and original flavor combinations are impressive, and you also have the option for wine pairings to complement the food. Like Seiva mentioned above, this is another great choice if you’re looking for a higher-end vegan meal.

Why go? For an elevated dining experience featuring creative vegan cuisine with expert explanations of each dish, perfect for a special night out.

Address – Rua de Fernandes Tomás 345

Opening Hours – Mondays to Saturdays, 7:00 PM-11:00 PM, Closed on Sundays

Porto’s vegan treasures run the gamut from affordable lunch spots to places for a special occasion. Together, they’ve helped make Porto a place where vegans don’t need to worry about a lack of options. It’s all here waiting for you. And if you’re also visiting Lisbon, be sure to check out our list of vegan options.

The Top 10 News Stories in Portugal – April 28-May 04, 2025

manuelcpocas
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The Top 10 News Stories in Portugal – April 28-May 04, 2025

1. President Marcelo Declares That the Restart of the Electric System Was Not Quick Enough

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa stated that the restart of the national electric system after the blackout was not quick enough, emphasizing that this incident revealed vulnerabilities that need to be addressed for the future. The President acknowledged that there were communication problems, particularly with the delay in receiving Civil Protection SMS messages, a fact he noted has been recognized by both the Government and SIRESP.

In his remarks regarding the situation, the President indicated that, although the Government claims the balance is ultimately positive, the opposition highlights new issues that need to be considered. He emphasized that the key lesson from such situations is to prepare for future challenges after experiencing them. As such, he expressed hope that the independent technical commission investigating the blackout would provide valuable insights in a timely manner, and that the country may learn significant lessons from it.

It is important to consider that the President confirmed that he had closely followed the situation, maintaining a respectful stance toward the previous technical commission and avoiding earlier comments.

Read more from our source here.

2. Government Confirms That More Than 4,500 Immigrants Will Have to Leave Portugal

Over 4,500 immigrants in Portugal will be requested to leave voluntarily within 20 days, with expulsion looming if they fail to comply. This follows the confirmation from the Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, that a significant number of residence permit requests have been rejected for reasons such as criminal offenses, irregular stays in other countries, or missing documentation. These notifications come from the Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum (AIMA), part of efforts to regulate immigration in Portugal, which has more than 400,000 pending immigration cases.

More recently, the Portuguese government has adopted a stance of “regulated immigration,” emphasizing that non-compliance with immigration rules will have consequences. For obvious reasons, the Minister stressed the importance of enforcing this law, asserting that immigrants who violate Portuguese and European regulations must face the legal consequences, including a 20-day voluntary departure deadline, after which forced removals will occur. This marks the first batch of notifications stemming from over 18,000 rejected applications that will be processed in a more structured and timely manner.

However, despite the new stance, Minister António Leitão Amaro noted the difficulty in executing forced removals after the abolition of the SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service), and blamed the rejection of government proposals by PS and Chega for exacerbating the issue. Note that the government’s actions reflect the broader goal of resolving long-standing immigration cases and ensuring a more efficient immigration process, with the aim of prioritizing justice for those who comply with the rules. Additionally, it is important to consider that this policy change also follows the termination of the “expressions of interest” program, which allowed immigrants to regularize their status without prior visas.

Read more from our source here.

3. Electoral Campaign Starts With an Aggressive Tone

The official campaign for the May 18 legislative elections has begun, with party leaders already on the streets, prepared to win over voters in an aggressive tone that is expected to be disengaging and not very enlightening. Key issues such as the ongoing crisis in the National Health Service (SNS), housing affordability, the rising cost of living, and taxes will dominate the political discourse. The controversy surrounding Luís Montenegro’s family business, Spinumviva, has reignited, with the opposition, particularly the PS, seizing the opportunity to tarnish his image, although experts suggest that its media impact may be stronger than its electoral influence.

Many political scientists predict the campaign will be “harsh, aggressive, and violent,” with parties focusing on discrediting opponents. However, they caution that this tone could lead to voter confusion, as the campaign might lack clarity and fail to mobilize the electorate. While both major parties, AD and PS, accuse each other over various issues, including the responsibility for early elections, it seems that the PS is struggling to capitalize on the weakened position of the Prime Minister. Recent polls show that the AD, led by Montenegro, has an advantage in terms of electability and stability, with no signs of a left-wing parliamentary majority emerging.

Note that the campaign will also see an intense focus on tactical voting, with parties looking for the support of smaller parties and independent voters. The PS is positioned to appeal to voters seeking stability, leveraging their achievements like the rise in the minimum wage and pension bonuses. Meanwhile, the AD aims to advocate for strategic voting to weaken the left. Ultimately, the success of these efforts, alongside smaller parties’ attempts to influence government alliances, will shape the outcome of this highly competitive election. The campaign will culminate with the traditional closing parades in Lisbon, where all leaders will face off in a televised debate.

Read more from our source here.

4. Local Accommodation Pays Higher IRS in Urban Pressure Areas

Owners of Local Accommodation (AL) properties in urban pressure areas pay more IRS compared to those outside these zones. In areas with housing shortages, businesses are taxed on 50% of their earnings, while outside these areas, only 35% of the profits are taxed. This difference is due to the application of the IRS Code’s rules, where tax is applied to earnings under category B (self-employed). Those opting for the simplified regime, available for earnings under €200,000 annually, must apply a coefficient to their earnings, but they cannot deduct actual expenses, only presumed ones.

To declare AL income, taxpayers must open a business activity with the appropriate economic activity code (CAE) and report earnings in the IRS Model 3 declaration. For properties in containment zones, they must also fill in additional sections of the form. If the income exceeds €200,000, the taxpayer must follow the organized accounting regime, where all earnings are taxed, but deductions are allowed for actual expenses. Organized accounting becomes advantageous when activity costs exceed 65% of the income, as it allows for full cost deductions.

Furthermore, Local Accommodation income is subject to the aggregation rule, meaning it is added to other income, such as salaries, for tax purposes. Progressive IRS rates apply, potentially reaching up to 48%, with a solidarity surcharge if applicable. Additionally, any non-refundable reservation amounts are also taxable. However, property owners who convert AL properties to residential rentals can benefit from an exemption on rental income, provided the property was used for AL until 2022 and the rental contract is signed by December 2024.

Read more from our source here.

5. Looking for Sunny Terraces in Lisbon? There’s an App for That

The Sunseekr app has arrived to revolutionize the search for a spot in the sun, showing which bars and cafés are in the sun in Lisbon at different times of day. The interactive map displays cafés and bars with the most sunlight at any given moment, taking into account the sun’s position and the height of surrounding buildings, offering highly accurate information on sunny or shaded terraces.

Created by Mo Dawod, an architect by training, Sunseekr began as an experimental design project posted on Reddit. Using real-time shadow simulations, Mapbox navigation software, and OpenStreetMap data, the app earned instant praise. According to the words of one Reddit user: “Honestly, this deserves a Nobel Prize.” After its success in London, Lisbon, which is one of Europe’s sunniest capitals, is now filled with “yellow suns” on the app’s map.

The goal is that, with Sunseekr, users can plan ahead and adjust the time in the top bar to see which spots nearby will be bathed in sunlight. If it gets too hot, there is no problem, because the app also shows the best shaded spots to cool down. Note that the team plans to add more places, including restaurants, but, for now, you can use the app to make the most of the best cafés and bars, or consult Time Out’s curated lists for extra guidance.

Read more from our source here.

6. Eclipse in the Algarve: Four Michelin-Starred Chefs Light Up Solalua

Solalua, the fine dining restaurant at the Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, will become a hilltop retreat where culinary worlds converge to create “Eclipse”, a series of four-hands dinners from May through November. Resident chef Pedro Pinto joins four leading figures of contemporary Portuguese cuisine (Vasco Coelho Santos, Henrique Sá Pessoa, Alexandre Silva, and Louise Bourrat) for intimate experiences limited to just 25 guests each. Each duo crafts a 10-course tasting menu, with five dishes by Pedro Pinto and five by the guest chef, creating a “celebration of creativity and a deep respect for the land.”

The first dinner, with Vasco Coelho Santos (Euskalduna Studio, 1 Michelin star), was set for May 2,3, followed by Henrique Sá Pessoa (Alma, 2 stars) in July, Alexandre Silva (Loco, 1 star) in September, and Louise Bourrat (BouBou’s) in November. Curated by Nelson Marques, author of “Chefs Sem Reservas”, the concept draws from the very soul of Solalua, the sun and the moon, “two celestial bodies that rarely meet, but when they do, magic happens.”

Pedro Pinto’s cuisine is known as poetic, sensory, and deeply rooted in the land, with dishes like a crab cream-filled Bola de Berlim, beignet with goat milk and honey sorbet, and an oyster cocktail with Rocha pear and wild river mint. Set in the American brand’s first hotel in Portugal, where architecture merges with nature and luxury takes on a sense of calm, diners at Solalua enjoy time to feel and the rare chance to “dine under the stars.

Read more from our source here.

7. Bordalo II Turns Cais do Sodré into a Monopoly Board: “Where the Right to Housing Is Like a Game”

The Portuguese artist Bordalo II has transformed Praça Duque da Terceira, in Cais do Sodré, into a giant Monopoly board titled Provoc. The new installation covers part of the square with a canvas structure that recreates, on a magnified scale, the aesthetic of the classic board game. However, in this case, each “property” bears the name of a Portuguese location like Campo Grande, Rossio, or Avenida de Fernão de Magalhães, and has price tags ranging from €6,000 to €40,000.

Known for using recycled materials and large-scale works, the 38-year-old artist draws attention to social, political, and environmental issues through his interventions. With the title “where the right to housing is like a game,” he attempted to reflect the widespread feeling that the real estate market operates more like a speculative game than an essential right. 

Note that Bordalo II has addressed the housing crisis before, with a work called Local Displacement, in 2024, which consisted of four tents painted to look like houses in central Lisbon. Additionally, he has also tackled themes like the climate crisis, corruption, war, and fascism. Past works include “Freedom – Anti-Fascist Probiotic”, a giant pill box placed on the grave of the Portuguese dictator Salazar, and “Walk of Shame”, a crosswalk made of €500 bills, criticizing the public money spent on World Youth Day.

Read more from our source here.

8. At This Pop-Up Restaurant, People Eat What Artificial Intelligence Decides

Sem Igual is a pop-up restaurant by Samsung, where guests choose ingredients, and the Samsung Galaxy S25’s AI creates the dishes. With no menu, diners select from 25 ingredients displayed under glass domes, including options like grilled salmon, veal, asparagus, and basmati rice. The goal of the venue, which will be open on May 8 and 9 in Belém, is to create an immersive experience that showcases the potential of AI in culinary creation, where “no dish is the same,” reflecting the name Sem Igual (Without Equal).

The process begins when guests photograph the ingredients they wish to use, upload them to the phone’s AI system, Gemini, and request a recipe. Once the ingredients are recognized (despite occasional misidentifications), the AI generates a customized meal. The final recipe is then sent to a number connected to the kitchen, where a team prepares the dish, with each plate arriving within 30 to 40 minutes. Note that the experience will be free, but reservations are required due to limited seating for 20 people at a time.

After the Lisbon debut, Sem Igual will move to Porto on May 16 and 17, further reinforcing its goal of demonstrating the creative potential of AI and publicizing the new Samsung Galaxy S25, all by offering a unique culinary journey where the intersection of technology and dining provides a personal, experimental experience.

Read more from our source here.

9. Arroios Market Will Host a Vinyl Fair

The vinyl fair “Analógica” returns to Arroios Market from May 9 to 11 for its second edition, offering free entry to visitors. This year, the fair will feature around 40 exhibitors, including independent Portuguese labels, stores, musicians, and artists such as Príncipe Discos, Cuca Monga, Wasser Bassin, and Mondo Negro. Stalls will showcase vinyl records, cassettes, rare editions, and sound equipment, aiming to offer a comprehensive experience for music enthusiasts.

Alongside record sales, the event will host a program of workshops, live performances, and DJ sessions. Highlights include DJ Johnny Suede’s set blending EBM, Dark Italo, and Leftfield, on Friday, and, on Saturday, workshops on magnetic tape loops by Daniel Pinheiro and Fernando Fadigas, and a badge-making workshop for children with Marta San. Artists GABBEROLAS and Bernardo Álvares will also perform live, with experimental sets fusing improvisation, electronics, and Portuguese tradition.

On May 11, additional workshops include a session on building contact microphones by Diogo Melo, and a special concert by Julinho da Concertina. Note that all activities are free, but workshop participation requires registration via email ([email protected]). When it comes to the opening hours, the fair will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, and, on Saturday and Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Read more from our source here.

10. There Are Now 404 Blue Flag Beaches in Portugal 

Portugal now has 404 beaches flying the Blue Flag in 2025, a slight increase from the 398 recognized in 2024. This prestigious distinction, which guarantees high environmental quality, safety, accessibility, and information for bathers, was announced by the Blue Flag Association for Environment and Education (ABAAE) at the Vasco da Gama Aquarium in Oeiras. Note that, along with the blue flag beaches, Portugal has also earned 18 marina awards, 22 ecotourism vessels, and 23 Blue Centres dedicated to environmental education.

Among this year’s highlights is the return of Sintra’s beaches (Adraga, Grande, Maçãs, and Magoito) after a ten-year absence period. This return ensures that, now, every coastal municipality in Portugal has at least one Blue Flag beach, providing continuous coverage across the country.

Apart from these returns, in addition to the Algarve’s continued dominance, the Centre region added several new beaches, including Barra do Sul (Aveiro) and Costa Nova Sul (Ílhavo). The Tagus river basin saw new entries such as Olhos d’Água do Alviela and Alvares, while Alentejo gained more coastal and river beaches, including Monte Velho and Porto das Carretas/Albarquel. The Azores and Madeira also saw new additions, with the Azores having 46 Blue Flag beaches and Madeira 18, including notable beaches such as Prainha in Caniçal.

Read more from our source here.

12 Amazing Facts about Aristides de Sousa Mendes – Portugal’s Greatest Diplomat, Savior of Thousands of Lives during World War II

Becky Gillespie
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0
12 Amazing Facts about Aristides de Sousa Mendes – Portugal’s Greatest Diplomat, Savior of Thousands of Lives during World War II

Aristides de Sousa Mendes is truly one of history’s unsung heroes, a Portuguese diplomat whose extraordinary moral courage during World War II saved thousands from Nazi persecution. Despite facing severe personal consequences, he chose to follow his conscience over orders from the Portuguese government. Here are twelve remarkable facts about this extraordinary man who was described by Portuguese President Mário Soares as “Portugal’s greatest hero of the twentieth century.” The Portuguese TV program Os Grandes Portugueses voted Aristides de Sousa Mendes the third greatest Portuguese person of all time. If you’ve never heard of Aristides de Sousa Mendes before today, we hope you remember him long after you’ve finished this article.  

1. He was born into the Portuguese aristocracy and had a twin brother.

Aristides de Sousa Mendes do Amaral e Abranches was born in July 1885 in Cabanas de Viriato, Portugal together with his twin brother César. They were born into a family of aristocrats. Their mother, Maria Angelina Coelho Ribeiro, was a granddaughter of the 2nd Viscount of Midões, and their father, José de Sousa Mendes, was a judge on the Coimbra Court of Appeals. This privileged background would later make his sacrifice even more remarkable.

2. He worked in all corners of the globe before his final posting in Bordeaux, France.

After studying law at the University of Coimbra, where he graduated in 1908, Sousa Mendes embarked on a global diplomatic career that would take him and his family around the world. His postings included British Guiana, Zanzibar, Curitiba, San Francisco, Porto Alegre, Vigo, and Antwerp before he was assigned as Consul-General of Bordeaux, France in 1938, with jurisdiction over the whole Southwest of France.

3. He married his cousin and had 14 children.

In 1908, the same year he completed his law degree, Sousa Mendes married his childhood sweetheart, Maria Angelina Coelho de Sousa Mendes, who was also his cousin. Their union was blessed with fourteen children, born in various countries where he served as a diplomat. His family would later play a crucial role in his rescue operation, helping him issue life-saving visas during the darkest days of World War II.

Aristides and Angelina de Sousa Mendes with their first six children, 1917, Wikimedia Commons

4. The fateful Circular 14 changed his life.

On November 11, 1939, after the outbreak of World War II, the Portuguese government issued Circular 14 to all Portuguese consuls throughout Europe. This directive explicitly prohibited issuing visas to “Jews expelled from their countries,” stateless persons, and anyone who could not freely return to their country of origin. This racist and inhumane order would soon force Sousa Mendes to make the most important decision of his life.

Refugees in Belgium, May 1940, Wikimedia Commons

5. He faced a moral challenge that ultimately led him to help everyone that he could.

A pivotal moment in Sousa Mendes’ story came through his friendship with Chaim Kruger, a Chassidic Rabbi fleeing with his wife and five children. When Sousa Mendes offered him a visa, Kruger refused to accept unless all his “brothers and sisters,” which he considered the mass of Jewish refugees stranded in Bordeaux, received visas too. This moral challenge plunged Sousa Mendes into what has been described as “a moral crisis of incalculable proportions,” ultimately leading to his decision to help everyone he could.

This photo shows refugee representative and advocate Rabbi Chaim Kruger with Holocaust rescuer and hero Dr. Aristides de Sousa Mendes, following the rescue operation of June 1940 in which they both took part, Public Domain

6. He chose to stand with God and against man.

On June 17, 1940, after a period of intense internal struggle, Sousa Mendes emerged with a clear conviction to defy his government’s orders. He declared: “From now on I’m giving everyone visas. There will be no more nationalities, races or religions.” When faced with opposition from his own family members, he reportedly stated, “I would rather stand with God and against man than with man and against God,” which demonstrated the profound moral and religious conviction behind his actions.

Plaque in Bayonne, France, reading: “Here was installed the Consulate of Portugal in 1940, in homage to Consul Aristides de Sousa Mendes, Ambassador of Peace and Righteous Among the Nations, who saved 30,000 lives during World War II in Bordeaux, Bayonne, Hendaye. 19 July 1885-3 April 1954,” Michel Bakni, Wikimedia Commons

7. He set up a visa assembly line during World War II.

As Nazi forces approached, Sousa Mendes set up what has been described as an “assembly line” process to issue as many visas as possible. Working tirelessly with his wife, sons Pedro Nuno and José Antonio, his secretary José Seabra, Rabbi Kruger, and several refugees, he issued thousands of visas in just a few days. This frantic operation would later be described by Holocaust scholar Yehuda Bauer as “perhaps the largest rescue action by a single individual during the Holocaust.”

Life saving visa issued by Aristides de Sousa Mendes to Annelies Kaufmann, age 15, on May 24, 1940, Public Domain

8. He saved many notable World War II refugees including Salvador Dalí.

Among the thousands saved by Sousa Mendes was the famous surrealist painter Salvador Dalí, whose Russian wife Gala was directly threatened by Circular 14. Other notable visa recipients included actor Marcel Dalio (who later appeared in “Casablanca”), Grand Duchess Charlotte of Luxembourg, Otto von Habsburg (heir to the Austrian throne and a nemesis of Hitler), and Maurice de Rothschild (art collector, vintner, and Senator of France). Even the creators of the beloved children’s book character “Curious George,” H.A. Rey and Margret Rey, owed their escape to Sousa Mendes.

Salvador Dalí, 1939, Public Domain

9. He personally led refugees across the border.

Even after being recalled to Portugal, Sousa Mendes continued helping refugees. In one dramatic episode, he encountered a large group of stranded refugees who had been turned away at the border because the Portuguese government had ordered guards not to honor his visas. Sousa Mendes led them in his diplomatic car to a remote border checkpoint without telephones, guiding them across the border to freedom in his official diplomatic vehicle.

Aristides de Sousa Mendes, 1940, Public Domain

10. He was punished severely by Salazar himself upon his return to Portugal.

Upon returning to Portugal in July 1940, Sousa Mendes faced a severe disciplinary proceeding for disobeying orders. Dictator António de Oliveira Salazar personally imposed the sentence: one year of inactivity with half-pay, followed by forced retirement. Beyond the official punishment came social banishment and financial ruin. The family was blacklisted, lost their home, and was reduced to taking meals at a Jewish soup kitchen in Lisbon. When told the soup kitchen was intended for refugees, Sousa Mendes poignantly replied, “But we too are refugees.”

11. He never regretted his actions.

Despite the severe consequences, Sousa Mendes never regretted his actions. He reportedly said, “I could not have acted otherwise, and I therefore accept all that has befallen me with love.” To his lawyer, he wrote: “In truth, I disobeyed, but my disobedience does not dishonour me…Above the order, for me, there was God’s law, and that’s the one I have always sought to adhere to without hesitation.” He died in poverty on April 3, 1954, while still being seen as a disgrace by the Portuguese government.

Aristides de Sousa Mendes, 1950, Wikimedia Commons

12. A museum dedicated to his life and heroic actions opened on July 19, 2024.

For decades after his death, Sousa Mendes remained virtually unknown in Portugal. The turning point came after the 1974 Carnation Revolution, which overthrew the dictatorship. In 1987, he was posthumously awarded the Order of Liberty medal, and in 1988, the Portuguese parliament officially dismissed all charges against him by unanimous vote, restoring his diplomatic honors. In 1995, President Mário Soares declared him “Portugal’s greatest hero of the twentieth century.” Finally, on July 19, 2024, 139 years to the day after his birth, the Aristides de Sousa Mendes Museum was inaugurated in his hometown of Cabanas de Viriato, housed in his former family home, Casa do Passal, which had earlier been designated a National Monument of Portugal.

Aristides de Sousa Mendes Promenade in Vienna, inaugurated on January 18, 2000, reading: Aristides de Sousa Mendes (1885–1954), Portuguese diplomat, saved thousands of refugees by issuing life-saving visas, CorreiaPM, Public Domain
Sign in front of the Aristides de Sousa Mendes Museum in Cabanas de Viriato, Portugal, Cocoa57, Wikimedia Commons
Bust of Aristides de Sousa Mendes in Funchal, Madeira inaugurated on April 3, 2025, reading: Portuguese diplomat who saved thousands of Jews from the Holocaust, Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons
Casa do Passal in 2019, after rehabilitation

Final Thoughts

Aristides de Sousa Mendes’ legacy continues to inspire people worldwide as a shining example of moral courage in the face of evil. As Holocaust scholar Yehuda Bauer noted, his actions represent “perhaps the largest rescue action by a single individual during the Holocaust,” a testament to how one person’s conscience can make a profound difference in the world.

Is Portugal’s Golden Visa at Risk? EU Decision Against Malta Raises Questions

Becky Gillespie
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0
Is Portugal’s Golden Visa at Risk? EU Decision Against Malta Raises Questions

The European Court of Justice has just declared Malta’s controversial “golden passport” program illegal, a decision that could have serious implications for similar programs across the EU including Portugal’s Golden Visa.

The Decision Against Malta

On Tuesday, April 29, the EU’s highest court concluded that Malta’s investor citizenship scheme violated European law. The judges ruled that the program represented a “commercialization of the grant of nationality of a member state” and, by extension, EU citizenship.

Malta’s program allowed individuals who invested up to €750,000 and supposedly spent 12 months in the country to obtain citizenship. With a Maltese passport, investors gained EU citizenship and the freedom to live and work anywhere in the Union.

This is not just a local issue. The court clearly stated that Malta had jeopardized the mutual trust between EU member states necessary to create an area without internal borders. If Malta’s Golden Visa can be ruled illegal and the program required spending 12 months in the country, we wonder what the European Court of Justice might say about Portugal’s Golden Visa only requiring 14 days per year in the country.

Spain Has Already Abolished Its Program

This decision comes just months after Spain announced the end of its own Golden Visa program. In February 2025, the Spanish government canceled the program that allowed foreigners to obtain residency through real estate investments of €500,000, justifying the decision with concerns about real estate speculation and housing affordability. The final deadline to apply for the Spanish Golden Visa through buying a property worth 500,000 euros or more was April 3, 2025.

Spain’s abolishment of its Golden Visa, although imposed before this court ruling, was aligned with growing EU pressure against these programs, which are seen as gateways for potential security risks, money laundering, and tax evasion.

The Future of Portugal’s Golden Visa

Portugal, which has operated its own Golden Visa program since 2012, now finds itself in a delicate position. Although the Portuguese program has undergone changes in recent years, including the elimination of real estate investments in high-pressure areas like Lisbon and Porto, the European court’s decision raises serious questions about its long-term viability.

It’s important to note some fundamental differences: while the Maltese scheme offered direct citizenship, the Portuguese program only grants residency, with the possibility of citizenship after five years. However, the underlying logic of the court’s decision—the “commercialization” of access to the EU—could be applied in a similar way.

Since its creation, the Portuguese program has attracted more than €6 billion in investments and issued thousands of residence permits, mainly to Chinese, Brazilian, and American citizens. Advocates argue that the program brought crucial investment to the Portuguese economy, especially during the financial crisis.

Growing Pressures

Criticism of golden visa programs has increased in recent years. International organizations, including Transparency International, have repeatedly warned about the risks associated with these schemes including, but not limited to, the facilitation of money laundering, increased speculation in real estate, inequality in access to European residency and citizenship, and security risks and insufficient background checks.

The European Commission has demonstrated a clear position against these programs, as evidenced by the statement after the decision on Malta: “European citizenship is not for sale.”

What to Expect?

Although there is no direct action against Portugal at this time, political and legal pressure is likely to increase. The Portuguese government will have to carefully assess whether the program, even in its current more restricted form, can survive EU legal scrutiny.

Some experts already suggest that Portugal should consider a profound reform or even the gradual elimination of the program before being forced to do so by external pressure.

For current Portuguese Golden Visa holders, the situation creates uncertainties, although it is unlikely to retroactively affect already acquired rights.

At a time when the housing crisis in Portugal continues to be a hot topic, and with growing pressure from the EU, the question is no longer whether the Portuguese Golden Visa will be affected, but when and how the Portuguese authorities will respond to this new European legal context.

As the dust settles on the Malta decision, one thing seems clear: the era of “golden visas” in Europe may be coming to an end, and Portugal will have to adapt to this new reality. As we outlined previously, changes to the Portuguese Golden Visa program may already be coming due to the upcoming Portuguese elections. The message is becoming abundantly clear: if you would like to obtain residency in Portugal through the current Golden Visa program, you should apply as soon as possible. Residency already granted under the current Portugal Golden Visa scheme will likely not be canceled retroactively should the scheme be declared illegal by the European Court of Justice.   

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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 June 11 at 5 PM Lisbon Time (1 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
  • What tax breaks are available?
  • Live Q&A for all questions

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*If you cannot attend the seminar or would prefer one-on-one, book a call here.

Why Aren’t More Houses Being Built in Portugal? A Civil Engineer Explains the Roots of the Housing Crisis

Joana Almeida
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Why Aren’t More Houses Being Built in Portugal? A Civil Engineer Explains the Roots of the Housing Crisis

In recent years, Portugal’s housing crisis has evolved from a distant, abstract issue to something urgent and deeply personal. 

Once dismissed as a problem for Lisbon or Porto alone, the lack of housing now touches people in nearly every part of the country. 

Rents have skyrocketed, homes are being bought before they’re even finished, and many young adults — despite stable jobs — are moving back in with their parents. The question that echoes across dinner tables and WhatsApp chats is simple: Why aren’t more houses being built?

To gain a deeper understanding, I spoke with someone who works directly in the field — a civil engineer with years of experience in both urban and residential construction based in the city of Coimbra. 

His answers painted a picture far more complex than many headlines suggest.

“The reason why more houses aren’t being built in Portugal is not easy to explain,” he begins. “A number of factors created the urgent need to build now.”

According to him, this urgency is the result of decisions — and, in some cases, inaction — that go back decades. 

He attributes part of the problem to the construction boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s, a period of intense activity largely fueled by European Union funds. Portugal built rapidly — perhaps too rapidly. Eventually, there were more houses than buyers, and demand couldn’t keep up.

“This led to an oversupply in the market. Eventually, construction had to be scaled back, and many skilled workers emigrated to find jobs.”

Then came the 2008 financial crisis, which didn’t just affect banking and finance. Construction was hit hard. 

New projects dried up, and even more qualified workers — bricklayers, site managers, surveyors — left the country. In some cases, entire teams moved abroad for better wages and more consistent work.

“We went from around 12,000 monthly housing permits in the early 2000s to an average of 1,100 between 2010 and 2017,” he says.

Those numbers are staggering. And they explain part of today’s situation: for nearly a decade, Portugal simply didn’t build enough. 

Now, as demand grows again — fueled by both locals and international buyers — the country is scrambling to catch up. 

But it doesn’t have the resources to do so.

“The number of construction companies and skilled workers today simply isn’t enough to make up for the housing we didn’t build in the past.”

That might sound like a call to train more workers — and it is — but even if the country were to double its workforce overnight, another bottleneck would remain: bureaucracy.

“Portugal is one of the EU countries with the most regulations and decrees to follow,” he explains. “And it doesn’t distinguish, for example, between social housing and luxury housing.”

This, he says, is one of the most significant issues. Whether you’re building a high-end apartment complex for wealthy foreigners or basic housing for low-income families, the legal and administrative hurdles are the same.

That includes safety inspections, environmental reviews, and architectural standards — all crucial in themselves but rarely scaled in proportion to the project’s nature.

“It’s something I’d change so that those with fewer means can still live with dignity.”

The rules are not only complex, but they are also constantly changing. Local councils are often overwhelmed. 

“With the amount of bureaucracy and constantly changing laws, local councils need more time to review each application,” he says. 

And unlike other sectors, municipal building departments haven’t grown in size, despite the increase in applications.

“There hasn’t been an increase in the number of technicians available to evaluate projects,” he states.

This means long delays. 

It can take many months — sometimes more than a year — for a housing project to be approved. These delays drive up costs and discourage small- and medium-sized developers who can’t afford to wait that long. It also makes it harder for those who need homes the most to build.

And that brings us to cost. 

Even when a project is finally approved, the price of the building has shot up.

“The rise in the price of materials and labor has a direct impact on construction costs.”

Portugal’s construction sector is not immune to global inflation. Since the pandemic, the cost of basic materials — cement, steel, insulation, glass — has surged. Labour, too, is more expensive, especially as competition for skilled workers intensifies across Europe.

But there’s another layer to the cost crisis — one that’s more controversial.

“There’s price inflation driven by both developers and real estate agencies, who take advantage of the housing shortage to increase their margins.”

This kind of speculative inflation — where prices are raised simply because people are desperate and willing to pay more — adds fuel to the fire.

Developers, knowing there are few alternatives, push prices up. So do real estate agencies, which collect commissions based on final sale prices. 

The result?

Even modest homes are becoming unaffordable for the average Portuguese family.

And then there’s foreign investment — a topic that stirs heated debate in urban planning and political circles.

“It’s having some impact since the increased demand from people with greater purchasing power is driving up prices — both in the luxury market and in regular housing.”

While some defend foreign investment as necessary for economic growth, others argue that it is making housing increasingly out of reach. In cities like Lisbon and Porto, and even in places like Braga, Setúbal, or Coimbra, properties are bought as soon as they hit the market — often by non-residents who never plan to live there.

“From what I’ve seen in Coimbra, there are more and more foreigners investing in the mid-to-high-end segment, pushing apartment prices up across the board.”

And not all of them are buying homes to live in. Many are speculating — buying early and selling later at a profit.

“In some developments, up to 50% of buyers are foreigners,” he noted.

“We’re also seeing more and more investors buying properties while they’re still under construction, then selling them once complete.”

According to him, “From the projects I’ve followed, some investors are making returns of around 30%.”

This practice contributes to a vicious cycle: the more profitable speculation becomes, the more homes are bought for profit — not for people to live in. That further reduces supply, increases prices, and feeds the very crisis it profits from.

So, what’s the solution?

There’s no silver bullet, the engineer admits. 

But there are clear steps that could help. Public policy, first and foremost, needs to catch up to the scale of the problem. 

The permitting process must be both faster and fairer — differentiating between luxury and social housing. 

Construction companies need incentives to train and retain skilled workers. And there should be tighter regulations on speculative investment that inflates the market without contributing to real housing stock.

When asked what he would change if he could only change one thing, he doesn’t hesitate.

“We need to ensure the right conditions to build more, to build better, and to build affordably.”

That’s the bottom line. 

Without a serious commitment to long-term reform — in planning, training, regulation, and investment — Portugal’s housing crisis won’t go away. 

As demand continues to rise and the workforce continues to age, the situation may only worsen.

Until then, families will continue to search endlessly for homes they can afford. Young adults will continue to postpone independence. And the question will continue to be asked — again and again:

Why aren’t more houses being built?

Power Returns to the Iberian Peninsula and Many Questions Remain

Becky Gillespie
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Power Returns to the Iberian Peninsula and Many Questions Remain

On April 28, 2025, electricity was fully restored across Spain and Portugal following a massive blackout that left tens of millions without power for nearly 18 hours. The outage, which began on Monday afternoon, brought life to a standstill. It stopped the subways, grounded flights, disabled traffic lights, and cut off communication networks across the Iberian Peninsula. By Tuesday morning, power had returned to nearly all areas, and essential services like public transportation and cafes had begun to reopen, though cities remained quieter than usual as people slowly resumed their routines. Many homes in Lisbon had power restored within 10-12 hours. 

Back Online

Portugal’s entire electricity grid was back online, serving all 6.4 million users, while in Spain, trains resumed operation and businesses gradually reopened. Still, schools reported very low attendance, and many residents were hesitant to immediately return to normal life. Authorities from both countries confirmed that the blackout was not caused by a cyberattack, human error, or weather-related issues. Instead, two nearly simultaneous shutdowns in Spain’s electrical system appeared to have triggered the cascade. Preliminary findings also noted a disruption in a high-voltage connection between France and Spain shortly before the outage, but experts cautioned that a full technical analysis could take weeks or even months.

The unusual nature of the failure, which was described by experts as a once-in-a-generation event, has left many questions unanswered. Despite reassurances, the exact cause of the cascading failure remains unclear and has left both governments and citizens concerned about the vulnerability of modern infrastructure.

Prepare Your Emergency Kit

In light of this incident, it’s a timely reminder to keep a well-stocked emergency kit at home. Essentials should include a working flashlight with spare batteries, a radio with extra batteries, an external phone battery capable of providing at least three full charges, and basic supplies like extra toilet paper. It’s also recommended to keep at least 50 euros in cash (or even 100 euros if possible) as well as a supply of canned food that can last up to five days, and dried food items dried fruits, nuts, pasta, and grains that do not require refrigeration. If you have pets, make sure to store enough food and water for them as well. Extra toilet paper, basic hygiene items, and a small first-aid kit are also great things to add to your emergency stockpile.

Events like this are a sobering reminder that even highly developed nations are not immune to large-scale disruptions. Although electricity has been restored and life is gradually returning to normal across the Iberian Peninsula, many questions remain about how such a significant failure occurred in an age of advanced technology. We hope everyone in Portugal and Spain is safe, and that your daily lives are steadily returning to normal.

8 Best Events in Lisbon, May 2025

mihaelagutu
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8 Best Events in Lisbon, May 2025

May is probably the best month to visit Lisbon (feel free to disagree—but we doubt you will). The rainy season is over, and the weather is still pleasant enough to walk around the city in the afternoon. Evenings are cooled by the ocean breeze, perfect for unwinding with a drink after a day exploring the city’s landmarks.

Another reason to love Lisbon in May? The concerts, of course! You’ll soon see for yourself what we’re talking about. But we’re not all about concerts this month—we’ve also included a list of exhibitions you can add to your must-visit list.

As such, here are the 8 best events happening in Lisbon in May 2025:

1. Pixies: The Night The Zombies Came Tour

When: May 10, 2025

Where: Sagres Campo Pequeno, Centro de Lazer do, Campo Pequeno, 1000-082 Lisboa

How much: €29-€48

Here Comes Your Man, All I Think About Now, Greens and Blues… On May 10, 2025, the legendary alternative rock band Pixies will perform at Sagres Campo Pequeno in Lisbon. And you can listen to all their hits live for a solid dose of nostalgia.

The performance is part of their European tour The Night The Zombies Came. The concert will showcase their 10th studio album, which blends dark, cinematic themes with elements of folk, punk, and science fiction, all delivered in the Pixies’ unmistakable style! You can expect a setlist featuring both new and classic hits, with support from special guests The Pale White.

So, lovers of rock, alternative music, and anyone interested in listening to a band that has shaped the sound of modern rock—see you on May 10 at Sagres Campo Pequeno!

2. Tate McRae: Miss Possessive Tour

When: May 7, 7:30 p.m.

Where: MEO Arena, Rossio dos Olivais, 1990-231 Lisboa

How much: €49-€339 

Tate McRae, the star of the reality TV series So You Think You Can Dance and one of the most famous pop singers in the world, is coming to Lisbon on May 7.

Chances are—you probably know her songs even if you don’t recognize her name—that’s how popular Tate McRae is!

So, if you want to have some fun and dance to some of the world’s best pop hits, head to MEO Arena on May 7. You won’t regret it!

Things to do in Lisbon in May 2025
Lisbon. Photo by Ryutaro Tsukata (Pexels)

3. Ivete Sangalo Concert

When: May 25, 2025, 8 p.m.

Where: MEO Arena, Rossio dos Olivais, 1990-231 Lisboa

How much: €35-€80 

Celebrating three decades in music, Brazilian superstar Ivete Sangalo will light up Lisbon’s MEO Arena on May 25, 2025, with her A Festa tour.

She is a Brazilian singer and actress and is widely known as the Queen of Brazil! Her concerts are praised for their infectious rhythms, vibrant stage production, and irresistible energy, so if you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Lisbon, this could be it.

Without a doubt, with over 300 songs and 18 million albums sold, Ivete is a powerhouse of Latin pop and axé music!

4. The Lumineers Concert

When: May 2, 2025, 7:45 p.m.

Where: MEO Arena, Rossio dos Olivais, 1990-231 Lisboa

How much: €52-€66

And I don’t blame you, dear

For running like you did all these years

I would do the same, you best believe

And the highway signs say we’re close

But I don’t read those things anymore

I never trusted my own eyes

If you’ve ever wanted to sing these lyrics at the top of your lungs alongside those who invented them, you should definitely book your tickets to The Lumineers’ concert in Lisbon.

The American folk-pop band will bring their heartfelt melodies to the MEO Arena on May 2. You’ll have the unique opportunity to listen to their best hits like Ophelia, Cleopatra, Ho Hey, and others. Even if you’re not their biggest fan, we’re sure you’ll be swept up in the experience!

5. Candlelight Concert: The Best of Zeca Afonso

When: May 3, 2025, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Altis Grand Hotel, R. Castilho 11, 1269-072 Lisboa

How much: €26-€36

It really seems Lisbon is all about music in May, doesn’t it? And this concert is the best one for those who want to lose themselves in Portuguese music with Zeca Afonso’s songs!

Zeca Afonso is one of the most influential Portuguese folk singers and songwriters. In fact, the Armed Forces Movement used his song Grândola, Vila Morena (which you’ll be able to listen to during this concert) as a radio-broadcast signal during their military coup in the morning of April 25, 1974, which marked a turning point in Portugal’s transition to democracy.

But Zeca Afonso’s music is more than just historically significant. His tunes go straight to your heart.

Events in Lisbon May 2025
Lisbon. Photo by Renata Moraes (Pexels)

6. Candlelight Concert: The Best of ABBA

When: May 3, 2025, 9:30 p.m.

Where: Altis Grand Hotel, R. Castilho 11, 1269-072 Lisboa

How much: €36-€38 

From Zeca Afonso’s concert, you can head straight to ABBA’s tribute concert. You’ll be able to listen to incredible covers of the band’s greatest hits—Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, SOS, Waterloo, and so many more. Get ready for an instant hit of nostalgia while traveling back in time to the years when these songs brightened up your days!

The tickets are selling fast, so hurry up and get yours.

7. We Call It Ballet: Sleeping Beauty

When: May 9, 9:30 p.m.; May 17, 9:30 p.m.

Where: Cineteatro Capitolio, Parque Mayer, 1250-164 Lisboa

How much: €35 

Are you looking for something to do together as a family in Lisbon? Then, this event might just be for you!

This innovative dance and light show reimagines the classic Sleeping Beauty ballet with modern choreography and stunning visual effects. Even if you’re not a ballet or dance lover, we’re certain that you’ll enjoy it. The performers promise a visually captivating and emotionally engaging night.

8. Exhibitions Throughout the Month

Want to check out some exhibitions? Lisbon’s got plenty in May! Here are some you can try:

  • Towards Infinity, Vista Alegre, 200 Years of Creativity: until May 31, 2025, at Palacio Nacional da Ajuda; an exhibition of more than 400 porcelain pieces that showcase Vista Alegre’s rich history and culture
  • 31 Women, an Exhibition by Peggy Guggenheim, until June 29, 2025, at MAC/CCB; an exhibition that highlights the work of female creators who were mostly linked to Surrealism and abstract art
  • Rui Moreira, Transe, until June 2, 2025, at MAAT; a large museum exhibition with more than 100 drawings and paintings signed by Rui Moreira
  • British Art – Convergence, until July 21, 2025, at Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian; an exhibition showcasing more than 100 works signed by 74 artists that demonstrate Britain’s artistic connection with France, America, and Portugal
  • Susan Hiller, Dedicated to the Unknown, until June 22, 2025, at Culturgest; an exhibition presenting Susan Hiller’s multimedia practice extending over five decades
  • Portugal Pop, Fashion in Portuguese, 1970-2020, until October 12, 2025, at MUDE; an exhibition presenting Portugal’s fashion culture
  • Bio Viagem, Muitas Maravilhas, BAC, until June 22, 2025, at Atelier-Museu Júlio Pomar; an exhibition showcasing documentation and works signed by artists and art critics from the second half of the 20th century
  • Adriana Molder, Aldebarana Fallen to the Ground, until June 22, 2025, at Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea do Chiado; an exhibition presenting paintings with irregular contours inspired by the Italian folktales compiled by Italo Calvino and the Karen Blixen’s insights in Seven Gothic Tales
  • Paula Rego and Adriana Varejão, Between Your Teeth, until September 22, 2025, at Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian – Centro de Arte Moderna; an exhibition reinterpreting the power dynamics between two generations and focusing on the history of women in different parts of the world
  • EDP Foundation New Artists Award, 15th Edition, until September 8, 2025, at MAAT; an exhibition presenting the works signed by artists selected from among 600 candidates by an international jury

Unexplained Power Outage Cripples Spain and Portugal

Becky Gillespie
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Unexplained Power Outage Cripples Spain and Portugal

A widespread and unprecedented power outage swept across Spain and Portugal on late Monday morning, plunging millions into darkness, paralyzing transportation systems, and triggering major disruptions at airports and hospitals. Authorities now believe that possibly a rare atmospheric phenomenon, such as extreme temperature variations in Spain, led to massive electrical oscillations and synchronization failures across the Iberian Peninsula’s interconnected power grid.

Portuguese grid operator REN (Redes Energéticas Nacionais) reported that the anomaly, known as “induced atmospheric vibration,” affected 400kV high-voltage lines. This caused cascading failures across both countries’ networks and briefly impacted parts of southern France as well. As of Monday afternoon local time, Spain’s Red Eléctrica estimated that it could take between six to ten hours to fully restore power, while REN warned that, in Portugal, it may take up to one week to restore the entire network back to normal due to the complexity of rebalancing electricity flows.

Investigations Are Still Ongoing

European officials, including the European Commission and the European Council president Antonio Costa, emphasized that there is no evidence that the outage was caused by a cyberattack, although investigations are ongoing. Costa remains in direct contact with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro as technical teams work urgently to stabilize the situation.

The blackout brought everyday life to a grinding halt. Traffic lights failed and resulted in chaotic gridlock across major cities like Madrid, Lisbon, Barcelona, and Porto. In Madrid, people poured onto the streets from darkened office buildings as police directed the disorderly traffic and helicopters buzzed overhead. Hospitals across both countries had to rely on emergency generators, while Portugal’s National Institute for Medical Emergencies activated its full contingency plans to keep critical communications operational.

Public transport systems were heavily impacted, with metro services suspended, passengers trapped underground, and trains grinding to a halt. Major airports struggled to operate on backup power. Lisbon and Porto airports warned of operational constraints, while TAP Air Portugal advised passengers to stay home until further notice. Departures were delayed or canceled at major hubs, including Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and Barcelona’s El Prat Airport.

Ordinary Life Disrupted

At the Madrid Open tennis tournament, matches were suspended mid-play as scoreboards went dark and cameras lost power. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens recounted surreal scenes—such as customers having to leave barbershops mid-haircut due to the abrupt loss of electricity or being unable to pay for groceries as the scanning devices stopped working in the middle of the transactions.

This large-scale power failure is one of the most significant in Europe since Italy’s 2003 blackout. The governments of Spain and Portugal have activated crisis committees to coordinate the ongoing response, and European institutions remain in close contact to support the recovery efforts.

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