Will you be visiting Lisbon around Christmas? Are you looking for events to add to your Portuguese checklist? Look no more! We’ve found some events you will not want to miss! If you’re traveling with your children, the better – they’ll definitely enjoy the magic.
So keep reading to discover the five best events to attend in Lisbon around Christmas! Let us know what you’ve chosen because we’re eager to wish you great holidays!
1. Circo de Natal
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Lisbon that will make your Christmas trip memorable, don’t even hesitate to buy a ticket for Circo de Natal! The magic atmosphere unraveled by the show has been enchanting locals and tourists for more than 100 years.
Every year in December, the circus invites people to share with them a breathtaking evening at Coliseu dos Recreios. Viewers can see acrobats, magicians, clowns, and not only perform incredible acts!
This year, Circo de Natal performs at Coliseu de Recreios in Sala Polivalente from the 10th until the 26th of December, as well as on the 1st and 2nd of January 2024. The ticket prices vary from 25 EUR to 30 EUR, with exceptions for children under 12 years and seniors over 65.
The tickets are already sold out for some days – that’s how famous the circus is! Luckily, some days still have tickets left, so book your seat now and enjoy an amazing evening with your family or friends!
Just for your reference, Coliseu dos Recreios is located in Lisbon, on Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, 96. It is close to Avenida da Liberdade and Monumeto aos Restauradores, so you can take the blue Metro line to get there.
2. Cirque du Soleil
If you’ve enjoyed Circo de Natal or you’ve always wanted to see Cirque du Soleil but never actually got to do this, this is your chance!
Cirque du Soleil is probably the world’s most famous and largest circus producer. It was established in 1984 and has been awe-striking viewers ever since!
This year, Cirque du Soleil comes to Altice Arena in Portugal from the 20th until the 30th of December – just around Christmas, how perfect is this?! They will perform daily (except on the 24th of December) at various hours.
The ticket prices vary between 45 EUR and 104 EUR. Cirque du Soleil will perform the OVO show, possibly their most exciting performance, which puts life and the cycle of life on top of everything. It focuses on the world of insects, as you’ll notice in the Ovo logo – the two Os are an insect’s eyes, while the V grows into two antennae.
The characters of the show are, obviously, insects and include a ladybug, a dragonfly, spiders, fleas, butterflies, and others. The artists will perform ten acrobatic acts, including hand balancing and foot juggling, as well as acts on aerial hoops.
In short, this is an excellent chance for you and your kids to see a show that will certainly take your breath away! The best thing about it is that you can even buy a ticket for the 25th of December – the ideal Christmas gift!
Photo by Dennis Jarvis (Flickr)
3. The Christmas Boat
If you’re coming to Lisbon with your children around Christmas, we promise they (and you too!) will love taking a trip with the Christmas Boat! Not only will you have fun, but you’ll also enjoy the views of the Tagus River. It takes place on the 17th of December at 11:30, 14:00, and 15:30. The boat is filled with Christmas decorations, ensuring a magical atmosphere!
The staff has prepared for the little ones a myriad of games, face painting, and even a Christmas show. Parents won’t have time to get bored either, as there’s a program for the whole family! Although the activities take place inside the boat, the staff allows participants to go to the 1st floor and delight in the enchanting views.
The departure point is at Terreiro do Paço – Sul e Sueste Terminal and the trip lasts 1 hour. The tickets for adults are 13 EUR, for children (3-10 years old) – 6 EUR, and for teenagers (11-16 years old) – 10 EUR. There’s also a promotion for families of two adults and two children, which amounts to 34 EUR.
We must also mention that the events will be held in Portuguese. However, we think that children are quite good at understanding each other and having fun without even bothering about the languages they speak!
4. Watch Your Favorite Christmas Movie
If you visit cinesociety.pt, you’ll learn that they are organizing movie nights for fans to watch their favorite Christmas movies! Here are the films that will be shown:
Die Hard – 14th of December
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – 16th of December
Home Alone – 17th of December
Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas – 21st of December
You’ll be able to watch the films in the original language. However, they’ll have subtitles in Portuguese, just in case you want to practice!
Photo by Felix Mooneeram (Unsplash)
5. Attend La Sylphide, a Romantic Ballet
Are you a culture enthusiast? Do you enjoy an exquisite night out, watching professionals perform on stage a story told without any words? If so, La Sylphide, the first romantic ballet that marked a turning point in the history of dance, is definitely worth considering.
La Sylphide premiered in 1832 in Paris, and the public absolutely loved it! Back then, the performance was choreographed by Filippo Taglioni, while the music was created by Jean Schneitzhoeffer. A few years later, however, a second version of the ballet premiered. It was choreographed by August Buornaville and still stands as one of the oldest surviving ballets in the world.
Sounds quite intriguing, right?! Well, the experience is undoubtedly awe-inspiring! You can savor the La Sylphide ballet at Teatro Nacional de São Carlos until the 17th of December. After Christmas, on the 29th and the 30th of December, the artists will perform in Almada (which isn’t far from Lisbon) at Teatro Municipal Joaquim Benite.
Teatro Nacional de São Carlos. Photo by Janko Hoener (Flickr)
Anyone arriving in Lisbon in December is on the lookout for meaningful gifts and souvenirs. One simply cannot leave the country empty-handed when it has so much to offer!
Be it that you want to buy a gift for yourself, for someone you’re traveling with, or for a friend or family member who’s waiting for you back in your home country – it can be quite difficult to find the perfect one. After all, it should not only suit what you had in mind but also carry a touch of Portuguese tradition, right?!
If this sounds familiar and you’re wondering where to shop in Lisbon, keep reading to discover more about 12 stores to check out before Christmas!
12 Shops to Check out in Lisbon around Christmas
If you’re visiting Lisbon in December, you’ll have the opportunity to fill your bags with items sold at the Christmas markets – we do know how tempting those shops are!
However, if you want to go the extra mile to buy souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones, you may find yourself at a loss. The city, particularly its center, is bursting with shops. You definitely cannot check them all out because you’ll end up spending your whole vacation doing this! So, we’re here to help you.
We’ll discuss some of the most famous artisanal shops, where you can find items marked by Portuguese culture and traditions. We’ve also included some spots for antique and book lovers – if you don’t know what gift to choose, a book is always a good idea!
1. Caza das Vellas Loreto
Location: Rua do Loreto 53, 1200-241 Lisboa, Portugal
Christmas is all about lights and their magic, right? Well, name a better Christmas gift than a unique candle from one of Lisbon’s and the world’s oldest candle stores!
Caza das Vellas Loreto is a candle shop located in Bairro Alto, close to Praça Luis Camoes. Once you set foot into this store, the atmosphere will immediately transport you back to the 18th century, when the store was founded.
More precisely, it was established on the same day the French Revolution started, a date that bears significant symbolism and marked a turning point in the capital’s history.
During this time of the year, the shop sells Christmas candles, which can even be personalized with an inscription. You’ll also find a myriad of decorative candles, each made by hand, that suit the preferences of any visitor. And, as mentioned, the shop itself and its wood-paneled interior are a true delight for any curious traveler.
2. O Mundo Fantástico da Sardinha Portuguesa
Location: Praça Dom Pedro IV 39, 1100-200 Lisboa, Portugal
As you probably already know, sardines are a must-try dish for anyone visiting Portugal. During the winter, however, getting the true experience is quite impossible because their “consumption period” usually begins in June.
Nonetheless, Portugal makes use of its closeness to the shore to surprise its tourists with tins of sardines. They are sold in various shops, but O mundo fantástico da sardinha portuguesa stands out among them. It combines Portuguese culture with a vibrant, colorful design that makes visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale!
In Lisbon, O mundo fantástico da sardinha portuguesa is close to the Rossio metro station. There’s no need to worry – it’s so colorful that it’s impossible to miss!
The tins of sardines are grouped based on the year, each having a unique design and color, as well as one interesting fact about that particular year. You can buy one for the year you or your loved ones were born, for example.
Photo by Ji Soo Song (Flickr(
3. Livraria Bertrand
Location: R. Garrett 73 75, 1200-203 Lisboa, Portugal
Livraria Bertrand is a haven for any bookworm! Although the bookstore chain has more than 50 shops in Portugal, the one in Baixa Chiado is by far the most charming. In fact, Livraria Bertrand do Chiado, which was founded in 1732, was named the world’s oldest bookstore. It even made it to the Guinness World Records. Fernando Pessoa himself was a frequent visitor of the store!
The gorgeous interior design of the store only adds to its extensive history and charm. If you’re an avid reader, we definitely recommend reserving at least an hour to explore all the available “rooms.” You’ll also have to spend some time exploring the beauty of the building, not only the books!
If you’re worried that you’ll only find books in Portuguese, we’ll tell you otherwise – there are plenty in English, Spanish, and French. In addition, the shop has a stationery section with a diversified collection of journals and related items.
Photo by Jeremy Thompson (Flickr)
4. Silva & Feijoo
Location: R. dos Bacalhoeiros 117, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal; R. de São Nicolau 52, 1100-549 Lisboa, Portugal; R. Bartolomeu de Gusmão 4, 1100-223 Lisboa, Portugal
The Silva & Feijoo brand was established in 1919. It still greets visitors with its collection of traditional Portuguese vintage objects and selected products that encompass the values of Portuguese gastronomy.
There are three Silva & Feijoo stores in Lisbon city center. The most popular one is located in the heart of the city, close to the famous Rua Augusta. Another is near the beautiful Igreja de Nossa Senhora Da Conceição Velha, while the third is a bit farther away, close to Casa dos Bicos, which honors José Saramago.
Each store is uniquely decorated, making for a pleasant shopping experience, and has a wide variety of products – sheep cheese, honey vinegar, Ginja (sour cherry liqueur), coffee, olive oils, sardine tins, and olive oil.
Photo by Paul Arps (Flickr)
5. Arte Rústica
Location: R. Augusta 196, 1100-051 Lisboa, Portugal
Arte Rústica, located on the busy Rua Augusta, is a dream for those passionate about Portuguese handicrafts. What makes this store unique is its collection of hand-painted azulejo tiles and panels, many of which have traveled around the world and found their place in people’s houses. So, if you want a souvenir that truly speaks of unparalleled Portuguese art, don’t hesitate to enter Arte Rustica.
The shop has an impressive collection of hand-painted items. For example, you can buy an azulejo panel featuring one of the famous Lisbon trams and install it somewhere in your house to remind you of your trip.
Or you can opt for some handmade tableware that will make for an excellent dinner table decoration. If you want to buy a small yet significant Christmas gift for someone, go for an individual azulejo tile, some of which are excellent for the occasion, as they portray the Nativity of Jesus.
6. Armazéns do Chiado
Location: R. do Carmo, 1200-094 Lisboa, Portugal
Armazéns do Chiado is a shopping mall in Baixa Chiado, located on Rua do Carmo. It’s a popular spot in Lisbon in December due to the multitude of lights the building is decorated with. That’s why we recommend shopping during the evening. After you’ve bought presents for your family, you can get a coffee from Starbucks and enjoy the charming lights of the street while exploring other shops around.
The mall has plenty of stores you can choose from – starting with Fnac, where you can find books, electronic devices, children’s games, and even vinyl records, and ending with cosmetics, Christmas-themed sweets and candies, and clothes. We’re particularly fond of the Tea Shop, where you can try some truly unique tea types that can make for an excellent gift for someone!
As mentioned, the mall itself is not the only destination for those shopping for Christmas – the streets around the building are filled with other stores like Zara and Oysho. In addition, don’t forget to check out Flying Tiger, which is close to Armazens do Chiado. It’s a dream destination for anyone crazy about journaling, crafting, and decorating.
Photo by Mia Silva (Unsplash)
7. Casa Macario
Location: R. Augusta 272, 1100-057 Lisboa, Portugal
Casa Macario is located right on Rua Augusta, the busiest and most famous street in Lisbon. The shop was founded in 1913. Since then, it has greeted tourists and locals with traditional coffee, teas, chocolates, and almonds, as well as alcoholic drinks, including wine (particularly Port wine), gin, and whisky.
What you’ll find most intriguing is the sign that says, “Please don’t clean the bottles.” It will sound odd at first, but once you step inside, you’ll understand why – the shop is filled with dust-covered bottles, which only add to its charm! After all, the dust is evidence of the store’s long history and the drinks’ quality.
While you’re waiting for your souvenirs to be wrapped, take advantage of being there and pay attention to the seemingly hidden decorative elements that attest to the shop’s historical value.
8. Manteigaria Silva
Location: Rua D. Antão de Almada 1 C e D, 1100-197 Lisboa, Portugal
If you’re looking for a long-standing shop where you can buy regional cheese, ham, and other yummy stuff, make sure to check out Manteigaria Silva.
The shop is at least 125 years old, and although more than a century has passed, the building still retains some of its original architectural and decorative elements.
In 1922, the store was only selling butter (manteiga), which is why it’s called Manteigaria. Only in 1930 did the store expand and establish an additional butcher shop, which later became a gourmet deli. Over the years, the shop evolved and started selling salted cod and canned goods, dairy products, cured sausages, wines, and other specialties highly praised in Portuguese cuisine.
9. Confeitaria Nacional
Location: Praça da Figueira 18B, 1100-241 Lisboa, Portugal
Confeitaria Nacional is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tasty (self-)gift around Christmas, especially since you probably won’t find a better Bolo Rei cake (the traditional Portuguese Christmas cake) anywhere in the city. It was the founder of Confeitaria Nacional who brought the tradition of Bolo Rei to Portugal in the first place!
But that’s not the only cake you can try there. It’s quite well-known that it takes a bit of time for Confeitaria Nacional customers to decide what they want, considering the wide array of products!
Confeitaria Nacional was established almost two centuries ago, having survived earthquakes and fires, and it still stands elegantly in Praça da Figueira. It first charms visitors with its tiled facade, then makes use of its incredible interior design that will wow anyone stepping inside.
Photo by Morgaine (Flickr)
10. Libreria Mondo
Location: R. Garrett 100, 1200-273 Lisboa, Portugal
Yet another gem for readers, except that Libreria Mondo is also a haven for people who like to spend hours looking through antique objects – old letters and photos, vintage decorative pieces, or old magazines. The books are second-hand, which only adds to their value – we do know that many readers appreciate a book that’s been read by so many others before them!
Although the store can be quite messy, and you’ll have to spend some time to find what you’re looking for, we believe that no vintage shop can look otherwise if its collection is as extensive! The store has several rooms, each grouped according to book genres/antique objects. For example, there is a small, charming space filled only with second-hand books signed by classic authors.
11. Cerâmicas na Linha
Location: R. Capelo 16, 1200-224 Lisboa, Portugal
As you probably already know, Portugal is a country of handicrafts. You may have noticed that Lisbon is filled to the brim with buildings covered in hand-painted tiles, so, unsurprisingly, many souvenir shops feature azulejo or other ceramic products.
Well, Cerâmicas na Linha is, without a doubt, a treasure in this regard. Its extensive collection of ceramic tableware carries the core of Portuguese handicraft. You’ll be able to choose pieces from different collections and make an unmatched set of your own based on your preferences.
The most interesting part is that most of the items are sold by kilogram, although some brands have separate prices. If you’re worried that the items are too heavy for your luggage, you’ll be happy to learn that the shop offers international shipping services.
12. Joalharia do Carmo
Location: R. do Carmo 87B, 1200-093 Lisboa, Portugal
Are you looking for a more sophisticated gift, maybe for your significant other or your mother? If so, there’s no better place than Joalharia do Carmo, a shop that meets the jewelry craft and the Portuguese traditions. It is among the most famous jewelry shops in the country where you can find unique Portuguese Filigree pieces with maritime and floral motifs.
Besides exploring the stunningly beautiful earrings, necklaces, and other jewels on your Christmas shopping journey, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the shop’s architecture and design. The Art Deco facade designed by Manuel Norte Junior, the Baccarat crystal chandeliers, the mirrored side tables, and let’s not forget the spiral staircases – they will all add value to your trip. In addition, all these elements are lined with gold and green shades that praise the art of Filigree.
If you haven’t bought your winter tickets to Porto yet, this is your sign! Don’t hesitate to embark on a historically, culturally, and gastronomically rich journey through Portugal’s City of the Bridges.
Be it that you arrive in December or February, Porto will enchant you just as much with its extensive list of landmarks and events that can suit anyone’s preferences. Keep reading to learn more about the region’s weather, as well as some of the best Porto winter activities.
Porto in Winter: Porto Weather in Winter
Like Lisbon, Porto is quite warm during the winter, making it an excellent destination for the holidays. However, since Porto is in Portugal’s northern region, it can get a few degrees colder than the capital. Even so, it is among the warmest European cities during the winter months, so don’t even falter in choosing it for your trip!
The coldest winter month in Porto is January, when average day temperatures reach 13.8°C, whereas at night, they drop to approximately 5°C, rarely below 0°C.
Nonetheless, although the weather is quite springish, don’t forget that Porto has abundant precipitation levels from October till February, December being the wettest month. So make sure to pack a raincoat!
On the other hand, although a coastal region, the city center is quite sheltered from strong winds.
Porto in the Winter. Photo by xandro Vandewalle (Unsplash)
7 Best Porto Winter Activities
If you’ve booked a trip to Porto this winter and are worried that bad weather will ruin your plans, we’re here to tell you otherwise! There’s plenty to do in the city even on a rainy day. If it’s sunny, the better!
Keep reading to learn about the 7 best Porto winter activities.
1. Explore the Azulejo-Covered Landmarks
As you’ll soon notice, Portugal is a country of handicrafts. Azulejo tiles are by far the most cherished artisanal art by both locals and tourists. The cities are filled to the brim with buildings covered in azulejo tiles, and Porto is no exception.
In fact, Porto is home to some of the most iconic and popular azulejo spots that attract hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world! After all, what better way to spend a day in Porto if not to admire its iconic landmarks that offer a glimpse into the country’s artistic and historical values?
A top destination and one of the world’s most beautiful buildings is Porto’s São Bento railway station built in 1904. Its interior is covered in over 20,000 azulejo tiles painted by Jorge Colaço. They depict rural scenes and historical events like the Battle of Valdevez or the iconic 12th-century meeting between Egas Moniz de Riba Douro and Alfonso VII of Leon.
Photo by Ray in Manila (Flickr)
Let’s not forget the famous Chapel of Santa Catarina, also called the Chapel of Souls. It is located on Rua de Santa Catarina and is covered in over 15,000 azulejo tiles designed by Eduardo Leite. Not only is it an enchanting delight to anyone’s eyes, but it also opens the doors to the lives of Saint Catherine and Saint Francis of Assisi.
And, of course, the Porto Cathedral, the most iconic Romanesque monument of the city, offers a glimpse into a myriad of architectural elements, as well as the art of baroque azulejos painted in the 18th century.
If you’ve still got time, make sure to check out Igreja do Carmo as well.
2. Attend Essência do Vinho – Porto
Essência do Vinho is a wine-tasting event that earned its place as the best wine experience in Portugal. It takes place in Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira. If you visit Porto in February 2024, you may be just lucky enough to attend it.
Not only will you experience the best wine event there is, but you’ll also enjoy it in the famous Palácio da Bolsa, also called the Stock Exchange Palace. Thanks to its stunningly beautiful architecture and interior decorations, the palace is now on the Porto winter activities list of any tourist coming to Porto.
Bolsa Palace. Photo by Kevin Ohashi
The 19th edition of this wine event welcomed approximately 400 wine producers and over 4,000 wines available for tasting. The 20th edition of Essência do Vinho – Porto will likely take place between the 19th and the 25th of February, 2024, although the exact dates and program haven’t been officially announced yet.
So, if you’re just as passionate as we are about Portugal’s art of producing wine, keep an eye on www.essenciadovinho.com for updates!
3. Have Fun at The Christmas Market
If you’ve planned to spend your winter holidays in Porto, get ready to step into a magical realm filled with millions of Christmas lights! You won’t even have to get to the most crowded places – the whole city gets “carried away” by the enchanting holiday atmosphere.
This year, the Christmas Market will be open from the 1st until the 24th of December. You can find a myriad of handicraft shops and entertainment spots in Praça da Batalha, which becomes a Christmassy land every year in December!
There you’ll find everything you need for a perfect winter evening – gift shops jam-packed with various national products, including pieces of artwork or handmade jewelry, traditional foods and drinks, decorated wooden houses, and various live music events.
But don’t worry if you want to mix things up – there’s another Christmas Market in front of Matosinhos Town Hall in Basílio Teles Park. This one opens even sooner, on the 24th of November, and provides the public with over 80 artisan shops. We promise that your eyes will keep moving from one to another, and you’ll find it quite difficult to choose a souvenir!
While you’re at it, don’t forget to delight in the famous bolo-rei (king cake), also called bolo de Natal, a traditional Portuguese dish that cannot not find itself a spot on any local Christmas dinner.
Bolo Rei. Photo by Britta Frahm (Flickr)
4. Spiritus Light Show at Clérigos Church
The Clérigos Church is one of Porto’s most famous landmarks and one of the country’s first baroque churches featuring a baroque elliptic floor plan. It is particularly known for its 75-meter-tall bell tower. The interior of the church is a delight to anyone’s eyes!
If you’ve already added the Clérigos Church to your must-visit list, make sure to plan it during the Spiritus Light Show. The creative combination of light, music, and colors will take you beyond the building’s architecture. It will make for a spiritual journey into the realm of imagination.
The show is inspired by After all, the best way to travel is to feel signed by one of Fernando Pessoa’s best known heteronyms, Álvaro de Campos. In short, if you’re looking for a truly remarkable cultural and spiritual experience, this is it!
The tickets are only €10,70, and the experience will undoubtedly make for an unforgettable memory!
5. Visit Some Museums on a Rainy Day
Does the weather forecast predict a rainy day with no chance of catching any sunlight? No need to worry – Porto’s got this covered. You can visit some museums or art galleries – there are plenty to choose from, depending on your preferences.
Are you a doctor, a pharmacist, or simply curious about the history of medicine? Check out the Health and Pharmacy Museum, which traces 40 million years of medicine by exhibiting the healing and disease-fighting methods of various cultures and civilizations.
Or maybe you’re passionate about art history or literary and humanitarian studies. If so, don’t miss out on the Press Museum, Marta Ortigão Sampaio House Museum, or Museu da Misericórdia do Porto.
Of course, don’t forget about the world’s most beautiful bookshop – Livraria Lello. It’s not a museum, but its interior can definitely classify it as one! Once you set foot in the bookshop, you’ll be transported back in time or maybe to another universe of your own choice – be it the world of Harry Potter or maybe the enchanting realm of classic literature.
Livraria Lello. Photo by Ivo Rainha (Unsplash.
6. Don’t Leave Without Trying Francesinha
If you’re a gastronomy enthusiast, you should definitely taste the traditional Francesinha dish. It is a sandwich consisting of thick white loaf bread with fiambre (ham), steak, sausage, and cheese. The whole sandwich is covered in more cheese (yummy!) and comes with a special tomato-and-beer sauce, thus making for a delicious meal!
Portugal is in itself a country of rich gastronomic experiences, so you’ll probably taste plenty of traditional foods. What makes Francesinha special is that it originates from Porto. More precisely, it is thought to have been invented by Daniel David in an attempt to adapt the croque monsieur to the subtleties of Portuguese cuisine.
Francesinha in Porto. Photo by Kevin Ohashi
7. Have Your Best Cultural Experience at WOW Porto
WOW Porto is any culture enthusiast’s paradise. Not only does it have multiple museums and restaurants, but it’s also full of souvenir shops and provides a variety of workshops that suit any visitor’s idea of having fun. This cultural district even has some fantastic panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city and the Douro River.
Be it that you want to have dinner in a lovely atmosphere, buy some traditional canned fish from Companhia das Conservas, or discover the magic behind the famous Port wine – everything’s available at WOW Porto!
The new airport, the sale of TAP, and the reform of the formula used for updating pensions are some of the dossiers that will not move forward for now, due to the Government’s entry into management mode.
After the resignation of the Portuguese Prime Minister, because of ‘Operation Influencer’, the Portuguese President of the Republic announced that he would only formalize the action when certain criteria were met. Considering that with the approval of the 2024 State Budget, those criteria were met, the resignation will come into effect.
According to the Portuguese Constitution of The Republic, when a Prime Minister resigns and the executive branch is dissolved, the Government enters into management mode.
When this happens, the ministers are limited in their powers. The Management Government is limited to the performance of acts that are strictly necessary to ensure the management of public affairs.
Taking that into consideration, some of the existing dossiers comprising proposals, and processes, will naturally be frozen and passed on to the next Government after the new elections. The new Government will then decide if, when, and how to proceed in what regards them.
The new airport, the sale of TAP, the reform of the formula used for updating pensions, a big part of the new tobacco law, and matters related to labor and tax law are what will have to be frozen. These dossiers are not considered to be strictly necessary to ensure the required management of public affairs.
On the other hand, the public contest for the first stretch of the TGV speed train in national territory, the decongestion works at the airport, the increase of the minimum wage and pensions, the update on public workers’ wages and careers, the salary agreement with the doctor’s union, and the rent compensations for landlords because of the covid laws will move forward.
Note, however, that, according to the Portuguese President of the Republic, the TGV project will only move forward if there is an agreement between the Socialist Party and the Social Democratic Party. If there is not an agreement between the two largest political forces, the President can veto the project.
The final budget of the current Prime Minister’s era was approved last week at the Portuguese Assembly of the Republic, in a final global vote that comprised all the political parties.
As referred previously, the Portuguese President of the Republic stated that he would only formally, and officially, accept the Prime Minister’s resignation after the approval of the State Budget for next year. That, according to the words of the President, would help guarantee the necessary social and economic stability.
The global final vote, which took place last week at the Assembly of The Republic, after four days of voting on the specifics, relied on the majority of the Portuguese Socialist Party (PS). The 2024 State Budget was approved solely with the party’s favorable vote. Because of the party’s absolute majority, no other favorable votes were required.
The global final voting was the following: 1 favorable vote; 2 abstention votes; 5 votes against.
Notwithstanding, out of the 180 proposals that were approved within the Budget, 74 belonged to the opposition (other political parties). According to the socialist parliamentary leader, this was the first time an absolute majority approved so many proposals of the opposing political parties.
According to the Prime Minister’s statement, in 2024, the Portuguese will have a State Budget that continues a path of improving income, promoting investment, and protecting the future.
In his words, “During the last eight years, it was possible to demonstrate that with an economic policy that focuses on more jobs, more qualifications, and more innovation, we would have greater investment and greater export capacity”.
The opposing political parties, however, do not agree. Whilst some criticized the Socialist Party itself saying it collapsed from the inside, others preferred to point out what they considered to be its failures.
The truth, by the statements made by the speakers of the parties, is that the ruling of the Socialist Party led to a political crisis, to the crisis of the National Health System, to the deepening of the housing crisis, and of the educational crisis, to an increase of unemployment and of the tax burden, among other things.
For the opposing parties, the 2024 State Budget will not improve the lives of the workers and of the people, nor it will ensure better public services and the necessary fiscal justice.
Nevertheless, it was approved and will be what the Portuguese will have to deal with during the next year, independently of the result of the new elections scheduled for March.
When people hear about Setúbal, they instantly think of the beautiful Setúbal city and its charming historical center and famous beaches. The city, however, is only the capital of the district with the same name, which encompasses 13 municipalities, each with its own historical and touristic treasures.
As such, if you want to get away from the crowded capital and discover some hidden gems in Portugal’s Setúbal district, you’re in the right place! We’ve prepared a comprehensive list of landmarks to visit in some of the most beautiful cities in the region.
Keep reading to learn about 13 places to visit in the district Setúbal. We’re sure you’ll add some of them to your must-see list!
13 Places to Visit in the District of Setúbal
Before diving into details about some of our favorite places in Setúbal district, we must admit that we couldn’t fit them all in this article! We’re sure you’ll stumble upon other landmarks or viewpoints that will make your trip even more memorable.
No matter what and how many places mentioned below you’ll choose to visit, prepare yourself for a much more insightful journey!
1. Mercado do Livramento
Is there a better place to start our journey than Setúbal, the district capital?! The city is, in itself, a gem, and you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the city center, the surrounding beaches, and the community vibe. However, we decided to choose one place that shouldn’t be missing from your list – Mercado do Livramento.
The market has stood for a century and a half, providing locals with fresh food and tourists with an enriching historical and cultural experience.
Since fish dishes are at the heart of Portuguese cuisine, the market is a treasure in this regard! Even if you don’t plan to buy any fish, you’ll be amazed at how many (huge!) fish species you’ll see! In fact, Mercado do Livramento was recognized by USA Today as one of the world’s best fish markets.
However, the fish is only part of the reason why we recommend visiting the market. Its true beauty stands in the walls covered with more than 5000 azulejo tiles installed almost a century ago. They depict the agricultural and fishing activities of the region and are the subject of fascination for thousands of tourists.
2. Fort of São Filipe de Setúbal
Dating back to the 14th century, the Fort of São Filipe de Setúbal is one of the city’s main tourist attractions. The fort has a rich history that takes you back in time, as well as breathtaking viewpoints that overlook the city and the Sado estuary.
One of the most popular spots is the baroque chapel, which is almost completely covered in azulejo tiles that depict the life of Philip the Apostle. The fort’s structures are thought to have been inspired by the medieval Castle Sant’Elmo in Naples.
If you feel like taking a break, sit for a drink at Cafeteria Forte de São Filipe and enjoy it with the spectacular panoramic view!
São Filipe de Setúbal. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
3. Tróia Peninsula
While you’re in Setúbal, don’t miss out on visiting Tróia Peninsula if you want to enjoy a few less crowded beaches. However, we recommend doing this during the summer or, at least, when the weather is pleasant and the wind is not too strong.
You can reach Tróia by taking the ferry from Setúbal. It takes only around 15 minutes, so it’s definitely worth the journey. You’ll arrive at Marina de Tróia, where visitors can brighten their days by delighting in spectacular sunset views!
Once you arrive, you’ll have to get to the stilted walkways that connect the beaches. The walkways are the embodiment of tranquility and peace, so you’ll be spared of the tiring city busyness.
Did you know that the Tróia Peninsula beach is the longest in Europe, spanning over 65 kilometers? It has very soft and clean sand, and the water is usually crystal clear.
Praia de Troia. Photo by Raquel IG @Sempalavras.pt
4. Castle of Palmela
The next stop is Palmela, a town close to Setúbal. Its main landmark is the Castle of Palmela, which stands at an altitude of roughly 240 meters above sea level. You’ll have to walk through the city to reach it, but rest assured, you’ll enjoy the walk just as much because the city is quite charming!
The castle is of incredible architectural beauty and historical richness. Besides this, it offers spectacular views and has some exhibitions open to the public. If you’re lucky enough to arrive when there’s a festival, you’ll also enjoy the community vibe.
If you don’t mind crowded places, we recommend visiting Palmela and its castle during the Medieval Festival (usually in September). It is held within the castle territory, making for a truly immersive experience – medieval music, beverages, archery grounds, and even a medieval tournament!!
Palmela Castle. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
5. Moinhos Vivos
While you’re in Palmela, make sure to check out the Moinhos Vivos (windmills) that will help you immerse in the history and culture of Portugal. The mills have 250 years of history behind them and are surrounded by a pristine natural park that provides stunning natural views.
Additionally, the region has several archaeological sites for anyone passionate about the subject. Visitors can even interact with the region’s donkeys!
No need to worry if your stomach cries for food! You’ll have the best time experiencing the traditional meals available in the area!
Moinhos Vivos. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
6. Quinta and Palácio da Bacalhôa
Quinta and Palácio da Bacalhôa are a must-visit if you’re in the region. While tracing the roots of the estate’s origins, you’ll travel back in time, arriving in the 15th century.
Today, the estate is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved in the country. Back in the 15th century, it belonged to the Prince of Portugal and son of King João I and was subsequently inherited by his daughter.
Over the years, the territory was sold several times. The owners who bought the palace in 1528 enriched it with exquisite tiles, thus adding to its charm.
In 1936, the estate was once again sold, this time to Orlen Scoville. Years later, it was transformed into one of Portugal’s largest and most notable wine producers. Anyone looking for an authentic wine tour pleasantly blended with art and history should not miss out on Quinta da Bacalhôa!
7. Azulejos de Azeitão
Portugal is proud to call itself the mother of azulejo tilework. If you’ve ever visited the country or seen pictures of famous azulejo panels, you’re probably already acquainted with people’s appreciation of this traditional, artisanal art. Rightfully so, considering how intricate the process of creating azulejo is!
Well, at Azulejos de Azeitão, you have the opportunity to follow the steps yourself! The factory is among the most renowned in the region and welcomes thousands of tourists who want to learn more about the famous azulejo tilework.
Visitors benefit from tours that illustrate the process of tile creation. Besides this, they can paint their own tiles, thus experiencing bits of Portuguese traditions and cultures first-hand.
8. Arrábida National Park
Do you plan to spend a day of your trip away from the city reconnecting with nature? If so, consider touring Arrábida National Park. You can start from the city of Setúbal and cross the park by car.
On your way up the mountain, you can stop to enjoy the views provided by the stunning beaches of Figueirinha, Galapinhos, and Portinho da Arrábida. What we like the most about them is that they serve as a meeting point for the ocean and the rocky cliffs, blending perfectly into a breathtaking landscape!
Additionally, the route has multiple viewpoints that oversee the ocean, the city, and the Tróia Peninsula. Besides this, it’s an extensive botanical gem! After you’ve enjoyed the ride, you can use one of the available picnicking spots to delight in a lunch or dinner within the heart of nature.
However, there’s a significant downside to visiting Arrábida National Park. Since the region is a tourist hot spot during the summer, the authorities impose car restrictions from June to September. Therefore, we recommend checking out the regulations before planning your trip.
9. Cabo Espichel
We do not recommend leaving Setúbal district without visiting Cabo Espichel and Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel!
The cape is close to Sesimbra and features 100-meter-tall cliffs overseeing the immensity of the ocean. Not only is it a major landscape destination, but it also holds significant historical and paleontological value.
Did you know you can see multiple dinosaur footprints there? Some dinosaur fossil trackways are thought to have been deposited during the Jurassic, which means they’re 200-145 million years old! If you do arrive there, ensure to check out the Pereira do Avelino natural monument, which has five tracks and 108 footprints.
Besides this, there are multiple medieval legends associated with the region that give it a mysterious touch.
Cabo Espichel, Arrabida. Photo by Paulo Valdivieso (Flickr)
10. The Frigate D. Fernando II E Glória
Visiting a coastal country automatically implies immersing oneself in its coastal culture and history! You can do so by visiting the Frigate D. Fernando II e Glória ship museum.
The frigate was launched in 1843. It stands as Portugal’s last-built sailing warship. In 1963, a fire almost destroyed the frigate, which remained unattended for almost 30 years. In 1990, it was restored to its original appearance. At Expo ‘98, the frigate welcomed almost a million visitors. Its restoration was quickly recognized as one of the best historic ship restorations.
It is now open to the public and contributes significantly to enhancing any visitor’s trip to Portugal! Put yourself in a sailor’s shoes and travel back to 19th-century Portugal!
11. The Sanctuary of Christ the King
You may have seen the Sanctuary of Christ the King from the airplane while it was preparing to land in Lisbon! You may have also spotted it from the 25 de Abril Bridge while crossing the river to get to Setúbal.
The Sanctuary is a Catholic monument dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is located in Almada, a city and municipality in the district of Setúbal. The sanctuary’s structure, as you’ll probably notice, is inspired by the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.
The monument stands on a clifftop 133 meters above sea level and overlooks Lisbon, Almada, and the Tagus River. The 28-meter image of Christ stands on an 82-meter trapezoidal pedestal. The interior of the monument is open to the public. The base of the sanctuary has a large observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the Tagus River and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.
If you decide to go to Almada, make sure to enjoy a ride on the panoramic Elevador da Boca do Vento. It connects the city’s historic center with Jardim do Rio. It has a glass structure and allows for breathtaking views!
Cristo Rei, Almada. Photo by Reiseuhu (Unsplash)
12. Castelo de Santiago do Cacém
As you’ve probably noticed, Portugal is a land of castles, and the Castle of Santiago do Cacém is one of the most notable ones.
It stands in the municipality of Santiago do Cacém in the Alentejo region and dates back to the 12th century. It was built by the Moors and has an almost rectangular shape. Although hundreds of years have passed, the original architecture featuring Romanesque and Gothic details is still noticeable.
Close to the castle, you can find Igreja Matriz de Santiago do Cacém, which has a rich history behind it, spanning over 700 years.
13. Costa da Caparica Beaches
What better way to finish your journey through the district of Setúbal if not by spending a day by the ocean? The amazing thing is that visitors can do so even during the winter, as the weather is quite pleasant! You may even spot surfers catching waves in February!
Costa da Caparica is a freguesia located on the western coast of the Setúbal district. Its coastal area has a large beach extending for 30 kilometers. You can have a walk by the beach, take a coffee break, or have dinner by the breathtaking ocean view.
Besides this, the sunset sky is an absolute delight on the beaches in Costa da Caparica!
Costa da Caparica. Photo by Alexandre Contador (Unsplash)
While the star of the show tends to be the Christmas Eve cod on December 24, the traditional Christmas Day lunch does not disappoint. On Christmas Day, many Portuguese families eat Roupa Velha, meaning Old Rags. The name doesn’t do it justice as this dish is incredible and full of flavor. A great way to transform your Christmas dinner leftovers into something special, this dish is a staple all over the country.
What is roupa velha?
Roupa velha is a peasant-like lunch that consists of mixing the leftover cod, potatoes, cabbage, and eggs. It is usually served before the meat dish. Once a tradition of poorer families from the region of Minho to fight food waste, it is now one celebrated all over the country due to its delicious flavor.
Roupa Velha Recipe
6 Portions
Ingredients
Leftover baked cod 500 gram
Potatos 600 grams
2 onions
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons coriander
1 tablespoon Vinagre
Olives to garnish
Salt and pepper
Instructions
Firstly, make sure the cod has been removed from all its skin and bones. Break the cod into smaller pieces.
Peel the potatoes and cut them up into small round slices. Boil them in water with salt and then remove them from the pot.
In the same pot, boil the eggs. While these are boiling, dice the onions and garlic, and then cook them in olive oil in a large pan on low heat.
Then add the cod and the potatoes to the pan and cook on medium heat for a few minutes.
When the ingredients are warm, add the vinegar, pepper, and salt.
Right before serving, add the olive oil, eggs, olives, and coriander.
Before I moved to Lisbon from the United States, I was used to driving in my car to one big box chain store such as Walmart and finding everything in one place. My local Walmart was a super-sized one that combined fresh produce with organic and frozen foods along with bread and bakery, a pharmacy, cookware, clothing, cosmetics, furniture, and even a large section for car items and camping.
If I needed a certain pot or cooking utensil, I could walk across the store to that particular section after picking up the ingredients on the grocery side of the store. I could also make copies, get photos processed, and even pick up a new book all at the same store. In Lisbon, and any other place without the amount of cheap land it requires to build and maintain such a superstore, this is not the case.
A Shopping Challenge
When you are used to finding everything in one or two places, Lisbon is going to present a challenge, especially if you are searching for specific exotic ingredients to make food from your home country. These are likely ingredients that Portugal isn’t used to putting into their Mediterranean-style diet with its focus on fresh fruits, meat, vegetables, and seafood.
After three years in Lisbon, I can tell you that almost everything that you are looking for is waiting for you somewhere in the city. You just have to know where to look. You may need to go to four or five different shops to get the things that you need, but you can find what you need without having to grow it yourself. Searching for these ingredients becomes a game in itself. Once you have found your ingredients of choice, you may want to buy in bulk or plan ahead to save time and make prepping easier.
Before I go any further, let me caveat all of this by saying that I love Portuguese food and its fresh ingredients. I have made several local recipes and it is definitely easier to shop for the local cuisine. I also love experimenting with food from around the world, which is what led me to start looking for different ingredients and seeing what I could find.
Without further ado, let’s look at the 9 best specialty shops to help you find those special ingredients that you’re looking for.
1. Continente Colombo
Of all the different places that I’ve visited in central Lisbon, Continente Colombo is the biggest and thus the most likely to have what you are looking for, including the closest thing I’ve found to one of the holy grails in Lisbon: spring onions, known as cebolinha fresca in Portugal. These are not exactly the same as spring onions, but they are close enough for many of the Asian dishes that you might want to cook.
Continente Colombo is located inside the biggest shopping mall on the Iberian peninsula, Colombo Shopping Centre in Carnide, which has 340 stores, 9 movie screens, and even a bowling alley.
Protip: whenever you’re looking for a particular thing and don’t want to shop online, Colombo is where most people end up in Lisbon. This also means that you’re going to find more variety of food at Continente Colombo than anywhere else.
As one example, at my local Pingo Doce supermarket, I cannot find the French style of green beans or brussels sprouts. The store just doesn’t carry them. The Lidl a bit further away also doesn’t carry French green beans, although they do offer brussels sprouts. Another difficult ingredient to find at the typical supermarket is ground cumin. This can be found at Continente Colombo along with some other items on our list. Knowing that it’s a rare ingredient will help you pick it up when you see it.
Onions at Continente Colombo, Photo by Becky GillespieBrussels Sprouts at Continente Colombo, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Address: Av. Lusiada, 1500-392, Ground Floor, Metro Station Colégio Militar/Luz (Blue Line)
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – Midnight, Every Day
2. Celeiro
Celeiro is a Portuguese organic market and health food store that opened its first location in Lisbon in 1974. Today, it has 51 stores spread across Greater Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities in the country. It sells a very nice range of products including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Celeiro in Colombo, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Celeiro carries many products not available in any other physical store in Portugal. Today, you can find a host of vitamins and supplements as well as unusual spices, cereals, natural cosmetics, and even fresh produce. The prices are moderate to high here but for those with vegan and gluten-free diets, this is your best option.
Ingredients at Celeiro, Photo by Becky GillespieIngredients at Celeiro, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Celeiro opened its online store in 2014 and is the fastest-growing health food store chain in Portugal.
Address: Av. Lusiada, 1500-392, Ground Floor, Metro Station Colégio Militar/Luz (Blue Line)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – Midnight, Every Day
3. El Corte Inglés
The Spanish supermarket chain El Corte Inglés has only one location in Lisbon, and it is a foodie’s delight, both for its basement supermarket and also for its 7th-floor gourmet experience. Like Continente in Colombo, it is quite a large store with entire aisles dedicated to foreign ingredients and spices. There are also a number of bath and body products with more brands available than your local supermarket. I mention this because when I first arrived in Lisbon, I had no idea where to buy shampoo or sunscreen and ended up paying high prices at a local pharmacy until I realized that the place to buy these things is at a large supermarket such as El Corte Inglés.
El Corte Inglés in Lisbon, Photo by Becky Gillespie
The 7th-floor El Corte Inglés Gourmet Dining experience, besides having a number of high-quality eateries with outdoor dining options, also has a gourmet food section. This is a great place to buy a gift for your favorite fellow foodie. A large number of spices including Namibian sea salt, Sicilian pepper, and Madras curry. If you are a true foodie and want the widest range of exotic spices, this is a great place for you. To get a wider range of Asian spices, however, you will need to go to #6 on this list.
El Corte Inglés Supermarket in Lisbon, Photo by Becky GillespieEl Corte Inglés Gourmet Dining Experience, Photo by Becky GillespieEl Corte Inglés Gourmet Dining Experience, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Address: Av. António Augusto de Aguiar 31, 1069-413, Metro Station São Sebastião (Blue and Red lines). The Gourmet Experience is on the 7th floor.
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Friday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM, Sunday, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
4. Liberty Store
Liberty Store is a godsend for Americans who have been craving certain hard-to-find items from back home. However, it may make some people recoil in horror at the sugar and preservatives staring back at them through the store window. Sugary snacks and drinks such as Reeses, Twizzlers, and Dr. Pepper are available here. There is also one refrigerator full of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream!
The Entrance to the Liberty Store, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Where Liberty particularly excels compared to traditional Portuguese supermarkets is its baking section. You can find cake, brownies, and icing mixes that do not exist in the meager Portuguese baking departments. Certain spice blends, pickle relish, and salad dressings are also available.
Liberty Store Products, Photo by Becky GillespieAmerican Candy at Liberty Store, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Surprisingly, there is also a range of cleaning and cooking products from the US. If you’re looking for Ziploc or American-size coolers, Liberty can meet your needs. As you might expect, there is no fresh produce on offer.
Liberty Store Products, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Address: Largo de São Sebastião da Pedreira 9D, 1069-413, Metro Station São Sebastião (Blue and Red lines)
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
5. Portuel Kosher Food Store
There are also a few supermarkets in Lisbon catering to the Jewish community. I came to Portuel looking for one particular thing: kosher salt. I couldn’t find it anywhere else in the city, but I was able to find it here in both table and sea salt form.
Entrance to Portuel, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Portuel is not big, but the owner Dror is very friendly and eager to help. The supermarket is clean and its products are laid out in neat rows. You can also find products such as hummus, zaatar, chanukah candles, and wine.
Kosher salt from Portuel, Photo by Becky Gillespie
Address: R. Gomes Freire 146 A, 1150-180, Metro Station Picoas (Yellow Line)
Amanhecer Mercado Oriental in Martim Moniz will likely be a place you return to again and again. The bottom floor is spread out over two rooms with the first focusing on Asian dried and frozen foods and fresh produce. On the border between the two rooms, you can find bottled and canned Asian drinks.
The second room starts with cookware and a small corner for cleaning products followed by a wide range of spices, condiments, and noodles from several different countries. There are aisles devoted to India, Thailand, Korea, and Japan followed by Portugal wine and souvenirs closest to the check-out counter.
One of my favorite things about the Mercado Oriental is the Asian food court on the ground floor and first floor. For a reasonable price, you can order a plate of pad thai from Thailand, get a banh mi from Vietnam, a bowl of Malaysian noodles, etc. While the quality is admittedly not on the level of Asia itself, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity in Lisbon to travel through the flavors of Asia in one place.
Note: The entire Martim Moniz area has the biggest concentration of international food in all of Lisbon, and our next two supermarkets are located in this same area.
Address: R. da Palma 41 A 1o andar, 1100-390, Metro Station Martim Moniz (Green Line)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM, Every Day
7. Khan Mercado
Located in Martim Moniz, Khan Mercado caters to those looking for halal meat. They also have Asian products available and an array of spices. The shop comes highly recommended by the Muslim community and is known for having a 100% halal butcher. While the shop isn’t very big, it provides particular ingredients that are hard to find in other parts of the city.
Address: R. do Benformoso 62, 1100-394, Metro Station Martim Moniz (Green Line)
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
8. Shere Punjab Supermercado
Shere Punjab Supermercado is also in the Martim Moniz area. It specializes in Indian ingredients including authentic basmati rice that is different from the basmati rice that you can find in classic Portuguese supermarket chains such as Pingo Doce. This supermarket also has a small cafe that serves fresh samosas and tandoori chicken.
Compared to Portuguese supermarket chains, the prices can be a little high, but this is typical of import stores in Portugal. Fresh produce is also available here along with pickles, chilis, and other traditional Indian items. I would buy only the specialty items that you need here and buy general items that you can find anywhere at a cheaper shop.
Address: R. da Palma 284 A, 1100-394, Metro Station Martim Moniz (Green Line)
Opening Hours: Thursday-Monday, 8:00 AM – Midnight, Tuesday-Wednesday, 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
9. Mercado Santos
Mercado Santos is a small but well-stocked supermarket serving the western side of the city. A friend sent me here to get dill, which is very hard to find in average-sized Portuguese supermarkets, but I found it here on the first try. This supermarket has some great fresh produce in the front and a nice array of vegetarian and vegan options along with specialty meats and cheeses. While it doesn’t look like anything special from the front, I encourage you to go inside and see if you can find some hidden treasure to bring home and make for dinner.
Address: R. Santos-O-Velho 56, 1200-643, Metro Station Martim Moniz (Green Line)
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Although I am not going into detail here, Portugal has a variety of supermarkets available with Pingo Doce, Lidl, Continente, and Auchan being the most common around central Lisbon. Aldi is gaining more of a foothold in the country along with the Spanish Mercadona chain, which is not yet in central Lisbon but has several locations now in Portugal.
Once you find the shops that carry your ingredients, start tracking where you can find them and plan your shopping accordingly. I now make sure to stock up at the specialty supermarkets so that I only need to go every couple of months.
Lisbon has a surprising amount of international ingredients available. You just need to know where to look.
Cod is a Portuguese national treasure, connected to its history, from the discoveries to the Estado Novo. Despite the hundreds of ways to make a cod dish, the most important that has always stayed the same is the “Bacalhau de Consoada”. Translating to Christmas Eve Cod, this simple cod dish is eaten on December 24 across Portuguese homes.
If you’re looking to replicate the Christmas Eve Cod dish, our homemade traditional recipe is here to guide you through the process. Let’s get started!
What’s Christmas Eve dinner like in Portugal?
On Christmas Eve, traditionally, the main dish is cod, known as “Bacalhau da Consoada” (Christmas Eve Cod). This is a simple recipe of cod, potatoes, cabbage, and boiled eggs, The stars of this recipe are quality olive oil and garlic, giving it a strong but simple flavor.
Although this recipe has simple ingredients, it takes time to prepare. Many purchase the salted cod weeks in advance and then leave it soaked to “unsalt” it, a process that can take up to 4 days for a whole cod. At times, as seen in the photo below, Christmas Eve dinner is also accompanied by octopus.
Christmas Eve dinner 2022. Traditional cod with potatoes, egg, cabbage, as well as chickpeas and octopus. Photo by Lara Silva
The next day, on Christmas Day, many Portuguese families eat Roupa Velha which translates to Old Rags. This dish was created to not waste any food, a peasant-like lunch that consist of mixing the leftover cod, potatoes, cabbage, and eggs. This can be eaten as a starter or dish, usually accompanied by a meat dish.
Why is cod a Christmas tradition in Portugal?
The love of cod on Christmas is traditionally a Catholic custom in Portugal. Christian Portuguese people were not allowed to eat meat on fasting days of the Catholic calendar, leading to the tradition of eating cod on Christmas Eve. Meat would then only be eaten on the 25. However, this has spread throughout the country, even in non-religious families. However, many have started to cook a turkey or even pig on Christmas Eve, ignoring the Portuguese tradition.
Photo by Daniel Lobo (Flickr)
Portuguese Christmas Eve Cod Recipe
6 – 8 Portions
Ingredients
1 kilo salted cod (soaked for 3 days)
5 cloves garlic
1 bay leaf
1 kilo Portuguese cabbage
1 kilo potatoes
5 onions
10 eggs
Olive oil
Instructions
Three days before, soak the cod in cold water with a bit of vinegar. Change water every day for those three days.
Boil water and when it is ready, boil the cod for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the cod, but keep the water in the pot, adding salt. You will use it for the sides later.
Place the cod in a large oven-safe container. Top the cod with a mixture of 1 bay leaf, garlic, and lots of olive oil. Let it sit with the olive oil mixture for as long as possible, a few hours if possible.
While the cod is in the mixture, it’s time to prepare the sides and vegetables. In the same pot with the water where the cod was boiled, add the cabbage, the potatoes, and the peeled onions cut in half. Let boil for 10 minutes and then add the eggs.
Place the cod in the oven at 180°C (356°F) with the mixture to heat up the cod for 10 minutes or until it is warm.
After placing the cod in the oven, let the vegetables boil for another 15 minutes until the eggs are cooked, and not runny.
Serve the cod and the potatoes together, topped with the olive oil and garlic mixture. Add some of the mixture to the cabbage as well, but serve these separately.
The municipality of Rio de Janeiro will remove several statues of Portuguese figures because of a law proposal that prohibits the municipality from maintaining or installing statues, monuments, or signs that honor figures that were pro-slavery, reports CNN Portugal.
According to the official document, the law prohibits any type of tribute that makes a positive mention to individuals that committed acts against human rights, democratic values, or religious freedom.
The law was enacted this Wednesday and will come into effect effective immediately. According to the statements released by the local media, the law was proposed by one former council man, and a current council woman. As the City Hall of Rio de Janeiro missed the 15 day deadline to approve or veto the proposal, it became law.
As stated by its authors, any statues, monuments or signs that mention such figures positively, and are located in public spaces, shall be removed from such spaces and transported to museums. Furthermore, every single piece shall be accompanied by a contextualization of both, the piece and the personality.
There are several pieces that were explicitly mentioned, and will be removed. Most of them are, in fact, connected to figures that committed such acts. However, there is one that is not.
Among the artworks that will be removed is one that was offered to the municipality of Rio de Janeiro by Lisbon’s Mayor’s Office, in exchange for a statue of the Brazilian writer Machado de Assis.
This piece, which was built in honor of Father António Vieira, is located in the Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, and will soon be moved to a museum.
However, according to the Portuguese President of the Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, António Vieira is generally known as one of the first defenders of the rights of indigenous people, especially in Brazil. Historians argue that during the 17th century he spoke up against the exploration and slavery of indigenous people. He was not in favor of colonization. Consequently, he was persecuted by the Portuguese settlers, the King’s Court, and the Inquisition.
Still, not all in Portugal share the President’s sentiment. Back in 2017 in Portugal, an anti-racist group movement called Descolonizando protested against a similar statue in Lisbon of Father António Vieira, saying that he “represents a “selective slaveholder” who contributed to the colonization of millions of Africans.
The remaining figures, however, seem to be, without surrounding controversy, connected to personalities that acted against what we consider to be human rights, democratic values, and religious freedom.
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