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New Year’s Eve in Lisbon

Lara Silva
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New Year’s Eve in Lisbon

Lisbon is magical on New Year’s Eve. Not just because this night brings about the start of the new year celebrations but because the remnants of Christmas remain. In fact, they only really end on January 6, the Day of the Kings.

The Portuguese capital has so much to offer. Whether you are looking for an intimate dinner or a gala event, Lisbon has the perfect New Year’s Eve plans for you. But first, let’s take a look at the most popular New Year’s Eve traditions in Portugal.

New Year’s Eve Traditions in Portugal

New Year’s Eve looks different all over the globe. In Portugal, there are a set of traditions and practices to celebrate the new year that might seem unusual to many. Let’s take a look at the most common New Year’s Eve traditions in Portugal:

  • 12 Raisins: At the stroke of midnight, the Portuguese begin eating their 12 raisins to represent the 12 months for good luck. If you are spending New Year’s Eve at a restaurant, these will usually be handed out to you.
  • Champagne toast: It’s customary to toast with your friends in attendance, making sure not to cross your arms with others and to make eye contact. 
  • Money: Portuguese superstition says that you should have money with you when the clock strikes midnight for wealth. The tradition varies, with some holding the money in their hands and others keeping it in their wallet or even shoes. 
  • New outfit: It is said to bring about good luck to wear a brand new outfit. Everything should be brand new, particularly your underwear!
  • Ocean swim the next day: Many heads to the beach on the morning of January 1. The brave ones enjoy the first dip of the year in the ocean.

Best Hotels for New Year’s Eve in Lisbon

1. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

If you want to go all out for this special night, nothing says luxury like a Four Seasons! Whenever celebrities come to visit Lisbon, this is where they stay.

The Ritz in Lisbon is planning a magical New Year’s Eve dinner and party at its Grand Ballroom. You will be served dishes by Chef Pascal Meynard, including Dublin Bay prawn with Neuvic Oscietra caviar, daikon, and yuzu. If you want a more intimate setting, opt for a dinner at Chef Pedro Pena Bastos’ CURA Restaurant. 

The hotel has an updated Louis XVI style and has views of the Lisbon hills, located in central Lisbon. The Ritz has everything you would need: a high-end restaurant called CURA, a bar terrace, a gym, and a spa. If you fancy some shopping, Avenida da Liberdade is a 10-minute walk away.

The Ritz is probably the most expensive hotel in all of Lisbon. Therefore, expect high New Year’s Eve rates. 

2. Pestana Palace Lisboa

A member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”, Pestana Palace is located in a 19th-century palace. It is the only resort in Lisbon and has a lake pool, a spa, and large gardens. With views of the Tagus river, this hotel includes a sophisticated restaurant that serves iconic Portuguese dishes. 

This year, Pestana Palace Lisbon is offering New Year’s packages from 482 euros a night. For dinner, expect welcome drinks, a 5-course gala dinner with drinks, live music, fireworks, and a DJ to dance the night away.   

3. Bairro Alto Hotel

This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. It is uncommon for a luxury hotel of this standard to be located here. It is also the only luxury boutique hotel in Lisbon that has under 100 rooms. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha. We recommend heading to the bar on the top floor of the hotel, which has some of the best views of the city!

4. Corinthia Lisbon

A stylish 5-star hotel, Corinthia Lisbon features two restaurants and the largest spa area in Lisbon of 3000m2. The large Sky Lounge is located on the 24th floor, featuring panoramic views of the city.

Stay in a lovely refurbished guest room for a luxurious night. Corinthia Lisbon’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner has a glamorous theme: The Great Gatsby. In a jazzy celebration, you will get inspired by the roaring twenties. You will also get to enjoy some live music with Joana Lobo Anta’s Quintet. After dinner, dance the night away with drinks and a DJ.

The next morning, a large breakfast buffet is available to celebrate the first day of the year. Prices start at 527 euros per night. 

Top Restaurants for New Year’s Eve in Lisbon

Alfaia

One of the oldest restaurants in all of Lisbon, Alfaia opened in 1880. If you’re looking to try some traditional Portuguese food that tastes like a homecooked meal, Alfaia is the place to be for an old-fashioned meal. We recommend the cozido à Portuguesa, a classic Portuguese stew with beef, pork, blood sausage, and vegetables, as well as the old-fashioned shredded duck with rice. 

Alma

Founded by Portuguese Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, Alma offers an exclusive fine dining experience. The two-Michelin star restaurant’s dishes reflect Portuguese cuisine with an influence of the Chef’s international travels. Located in the heart of the Chiado district in an eighteenth-century building, Alma offers two tasting menus and an à la carte menu. The two tasting menus are Costa a Costa, a sea-focused tasting, and Alma, the Chef’s favorite dishes. 

Belcanto

Awarded two Michelin stars, Belcanto is 42nd on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Located in Chiado, this restaurant is one of the most expensive in all of Portugal, welcoming celebrities from all over the world. Founded by Chef José Avillez, you’ll taste some of the best flavors of Portuguese cuisine, reinvented for a more elevated dining experience. You can opt for choosing dishes à la carte or select the tasting menus, the latter being the most unique option. 

Palacio Chiado

Palácio Chiado is located in the eighteenth-century Quintela Palace in the heart of Chiado, a palace that was closed to the public for decades. The restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere, with music playing at night setting a more bar-like experience. Curated by  Chef Manuel Bóia, the restaurant’s dishes are diverse in origin, from Portuguese food to international cuisine. 

Photo provided by restaurant.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Lisbon

Lisbon puts on a show on New Year’s Eve. There might be no iconic ball drop, but the fireworks don’t disappoint. But where can you watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Lisbon? Terreiro do Paco, translating to Commerce Square. This large square has plenty of room for all and is the best place to watch the fireworks above the Tagus river.

Moreover, Terreiro do Paco hosts entertainment prior to the fireworks. Local bands start playing music at around 10 pm. The fireworks only come on at midnight, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes. After the fireworks display, more bands play, and even a DJ takes the stage.

However, the fireworks are visible from loads of places across the city, including some hotels.

Cost of Living in Coimbra: Monthly Budget

Lara Silva
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0
Cost of Living in Coimbra: Monthly Budget

If you are looking to move to Portugal but the capital’s higher prices are putting you off, there are plenty of cosmopolitan cities that remain affordable. Coimbra, once the proud capital of the Portuguese nation, is still relatively affordable, despite rising prices all over the country.

One of Portugal’s oldest cities, Coimbra boasts the oldest University in Portugal, which happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a place full of history and culture.

The best part – Coimbra is around 25% to 30% cheaper than Lisbon. But how much does it exactly cost to live in Coimbra? Let’s take a look at the monthly budget for an expat, digital nomad, and family of four in Coimbra.

Travel Guide to Coimbra

Cost of Living in Coimbra for an Expat 

The monthly budget for an expat in Coimbra, Portugal, is at least €1,000 if you want to live in the center.

A one-bedroom apartment in the center costs around €530. Outside of the center, it can cost around €380.

A monthly transportation pass is around €30 or less per person. Utilities cost around €130, including phone data and cable TV.

For exploring Coimbra, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget around €150 a month. You can easily spend more, this depends on your lifestyle. 

Groceries for a single person average out at around €40 a week. 

Cost of Living in Coimbra for a Digital Nomad

The cost of living in Coimbra for a digital nomad is at least €1,090 a month. This is the case if you sleep in a hostel’s dorm and cook most of your meals. If not, expect to need €3,000+ a month in Coimbra. 

How did we get from around €1,000 to over €3,000? If you opt for the budget option of a shared dorm in a hostel, expect only to need to pay €20 a night, so around €600 a month. However, a private Airbnb would cost you at least €2,000.

Renting a desk at a co-working place in Coimbra costs around €100. Transportation costs around €30. 

Budget at least €200 for leisure such as eating out, bars, and tourists to discover the island.

Food can easily max out your monthly budget. If you want to save and have a kitchen at your disposal, a weekly shop shouldn’t cost more than €40.

However, if you plan to eat out, an affordable meal is around €10. This would set you back around €1,000 in a month. 

Cost of Living in Coimbra for a Family of Four 

Expect to spend at least around €2,000 a month for a family of four in Coimbra, which is more than double the budget of a single expat. 

However, if you need health insurance for the entire family and your two kids will attend private school, you will spend thousands more.

A three-bedroom apartment in the center of Coimbra will only set you back around €725. However, prices can go up to €1,000, depending on the apartment type and amenities. Moreover, if you want to save money, opting for an apartment outside the center can save you another couple hundred euros.

Budget around €150 a month for monthly transport passes. However, it is more convenient for a family of four to own a car and drive around Coimbra. This way, you can also more easily visit neighboring cities. Fuel will cost you anywhere between €150 and €250 a month. 

Utilities cost around €160 and include electricity, heating, water, etc. However, this can be much higher in the winter or depending on your family’s consumption.

Groceries for a family of four in Coimbra should cost around €125 a week, so budget at least €500 a month.

If you need to purchase health insurance for the whole family, this will cost you at least €200 a month.

However, you might be eligible to use access to healthcare for free, even if you are not an EU resident. Non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.

While public schools are free, private schools can cost anywhere between €6000 and €2000 a year, depending on the establishment and age of your child. You could pay around €4000 a month for two kids just for education. 

New Year’s Eve in Porto

Lara Silva
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0
New Year’s Eve in Porto

Porto is beautiful in the winter. Not only due to the way the city lights up during the Christmas season and fewer hoards of tourists but because of the celebrations on December 31. The last day of the year is a memorable one in Porto, with locals and expats alike taking to the streets to celebrate and admire the fireworks. 

If you are trying to figure out your plans for your next New Year’s Eve in Porto, we have got you covered. From the best hotels to our favorite restaurants to celebrate this night, Porto has a lot to offer. But first, let’s take a look at the New Year’s Eve traditions in Portugal so you know what to expect!

New Year’s Eve Traditions in Portugal

  • 12 Raisins: At the stroke of midnight, the Portuguese begin eating their 12 raisins to represent the 12 months for good luck. If you are spending New Year’s Eve at a restaurant, these will usually be handed out to you.
  • Champagne toast: It’s customary to toast with your friends in attendance, making sure not to cross your arms with others and to make eye contact. 
  • Money: Portuguese superstition says that you should have money with you when the clock strikes midnight for wealth. The tradition varies, with some holding the money in their hands and others keeping it in their wallet or even shoes. 
  • New outfit: It is said to bring about good luck to wear a brand new outfit. Everything should be brand new, particularly your underwear!
  • Ocean swim the next day: Many heads to the beach on the morning of January 1. The brave ones enjoy the first dip of the year in the ocean.

Best Hotels for New Year’s Eve in Porto

What better way to spend New Year’s Eve in Porto than in a nice luxurious hotel? Many even have special packages for the occasion that include a delicious New Year’s Eve dinner and other activities, such as a relaxing spa day. Let’s take a look at the 5 best hotels for New Year’s Eve in Porto.

1. NH Hotel Porto Jardim

This four-star hotel feels like its five stars. It has a 70 cm deep outdoor people, a spa a few meters away, and a gym. It is located within walking distance of main attractions like Bolhão market, Aliados Avenue, and Ribeira, great spots to watch the fireworks after dinner. 

The hotel restaurant serves local and international cuisine and has a great selection of Portuguese wines for your New Year’s Eve dinner.

2. Hotel Premium Porto Downtown

Located in the old town, this modern 4-star hotel has a sun terrace with views of the city of Porto, the perfect place to enjoy some port wine. You’ll be close to everything you need, Santa Catarina street, Aliados Avenue, and the cathedral. The hotel offers unique and affordable experiences, like driving your own plane (A320) over Porto for €30 and boat trips on the river for €15, which are the perfect activities for the first day of the year. 

3. Mercure Porto Centro Aliados

This hotel mixes the modern with rustic and has a real-life tree inside the restaurant, “O Sítio Esquecido” (the forgotten place). Mercure Porto has a restaurant, pool, and sun terrace: it feels like a retreat away from the city. One of the best locations for a hotel, you’ll be a few minutes away from the hotspots to watch the fireworks after dinner!

4. The Yeatman, Gaia

This luxury hotel isn’t really in Porto – it’s 15 minutes away, crossing the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia. You get a full view of Porto across the Douro river, showcasing the fireworks along the water. Especially at night, this view is magazine-worthy. Have your New Year’s Eve dinner with some Portuguese wine at the 2 Michelin awarded Yeatman Restaurant.

The hotel has a luxury spa offering panoramic views of the city, perfect for a relaxing day on January 1. Each double bedroom comes with a private terrace. The bathrooms have a large bathtub and shower and come with Caudalie skincare products.

5. Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace

If you want to go all out, Le Monumental is for you! Located in a historic building from 1923, this 5-star hotel has two restaurants, a bar, a Spa, and a large indoor pool. Situated in the iconic Aliados Avenue, Monumental Palace is a 6-minute walk away from Clerigos Tower and the Livraria Lello.

The New Year’s Eve celebration at the hotel include dinner, cabaret, singers, and other performances. Offers start at 550 euros per person and include dinner and a room, although there is a minimum stay of two nights. 

On January 1st, the hotel is offering a New Year’s Day brunch for 120 euros per person. 

The hotel also has two Michelin star restaurants: Le Monument and Yakuza Porto by Olivier. The latter is a famous Japanese restaurant with Brazilian influences by Chef Olivier that is well known in all of Portugal.

 

Best Restaurants for New Year’s Eve in Porto

The perfect New Year’s Eve needs a delicious New Year’s dinner! It is your last meal of the year, after all. Here are the 5 best restaurants in Porto for New Year’s Eve dinner. 

1. Antiqvvm

Located in Rua de Entre Quintas, Antiqvvm has one of the best views of the River Douro from its garden. The Michelin-star restaurant was opened by Chef Vitor Matos, who uses local ingredients to produce dishes, picking out produce by season.

The wines at the restaurant are specially selected by sommelier António Lopes. You can choose from a set menu or opt for the à la carte menu, where vegetarian options are available. 

Photo provided by restaurant

2. Pedro Lemos

Located in a restored ancient stone house, Pedro Lemos was opened in 2009 by Chef Pedro Lemos, making it the first restaurant in Porto to receive a Michelin star. You’ll find this place in Foz, a historical neighborhood of Porto, 20 minutes away from the center of the city. This place has a rooftop terrace to enjoy the view of the river and watch the fireworks. 

3. Enoteca 17.56

One of the trendiest restaurants in Gaia, Enoteca 17.56 has a cool atmosphere and a modern interior design. With a terrace offering a gorgeous view of Porto and the Douro River, this restaurant is also a great spot for a sunset drink. Enoteca is known for its sushi, fillet steaks, and focaccia, as well as an extensive wine list. 

Photo provided by restaurant.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Porto

The best part about New Year’s Eve in Porto is the fireworks display that the city puts on. These are displayed by the Douro river and can be seen both from Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. People gather on the margins of the Douro river to watch the fireworks celebrations above the D. Luis I bridge. The best way to see these is either by staying at a hotel or finding a restaurant with great views. Alternatively, walk down to Ribeira on the sidelines of the river to watch the beautiful fireworks.

Photo by Renan (Unsplash)

New Year’s Traditions in Portugal

Lara Silva
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0
New Year’s Traditions in Portugal

New Year’s Eve looks different all over the globe. In Brazil, people dress up in white and party the night away. In the United States, New Yorkers watches the dropping of the ball in Times Square.

If you’re visiting Portugal for this holiday, you might be wondering how Portugal celebrates New Year’s Eve. Let’s take a look at New Year’s traditions in Portugal and the best places to celebrate this special night. 

Portuguese New Year’s Traditions

12 Raisins

Probably the most popular tradition in Portugal to celebrate New Year’s Eve revolves around a tiny dried grape. At the stroke of midnight, the Portuguese begin eating their 12 raisins to represent the 12 months. One raisin is traditionally eaten at each stroke of the clock. 

It’s said that these raisins will bring you luck for the year to come. When you eat them, you’re supposed to make a wish such as good health or prosperity. 

Before midnight strikes, the Portuguese will already be diving their raisings, so each person in attendance has 12. If you are spending New Year’s Eve at a restaurant, these will usually be handed out to you.

Photo by Erda Estremera (Unsplash)

Champagne toast

Like in most countries, the Portuguese also toast with champagne at midnight. Usually with champagne in one hand and raisins in another. It’s customary to toast with your friends in attendance, making sure not to cross your arms with others and to make eye contact. 

Photo by Billy Huynh (Unsplash)

Money in your pocket

Another New Year’s tradition in Portugal that is quite unusual revolves around money. Portuguese superstition says that you should have money with you when the clock strikes midnight. The tradition varies, with some holding the money in their hands and others keeping it in their wallet or even shoes. 

This tradition is said to bring about wealth for the new year. It is said that if your pockets are empty in the New Year, this will remain throughout the year and bring bad luck financially. 

New outfit

Another tradition that is becoming less popular surrounds clothing and fashion. It is said to bring about good luck to wear a brand new outfit. Everything should be brand new, particularly your underwear, as it’s said to bring luck! Unusual, right? 

Even the color of the clothing matters. It is said that wearing something blue brings about the most luck. Other colors bring about different superstitions. Red symbolizes passion, pink brings about a new romance and love, yellow represents wealth, and green is said to give good health. 

Fireworks

Major cities and towns in Portugals will present a beautiful fireworks show when the clock strikes midnight. People gather in the main squares and their balconies to watch the show of multiple colors that light up the sky. 

Beware that not anyone can launch fireworks into the sky. You need a permit to do so.

Photo by Jingda Chen (Unsplash)

New Year’s Day lunch

Many families take January 1st as seriously as New Year’s Eve. It’s customary for families to get together the day after New Year’s Eve for a nice meal to celebrate the official start of the year. Usually, they will head to a restaurant, as many offer special menus for this day.

Ocean dip on January 1

Another Portuguese tradition to celebrate the new year is to head to the beach on the morning of January 1. The brave ones enjoy the first dip of the year in the ocean, even in areas that are quite cold. This is said to bring about good luck and help you start the year in a positive way. 

Where to celebrate New Year’s in Portugal?

There are so many amazing places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Portugal. Whether you are looking for a more laid-back night or a party, Portugal has a lot to offer. Our favorite places to spend New Year’s Eve in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley.

Lisbon is one of our favorite cities in Portugal to celebrate New Year’s Eve. There are plenty of hotels offering package stays, such as the Ritz, Bairro Alto Hotel, and more. Restaurants of all kinds offer New Year’s Eve menus for a delicious dinner. For a more intimate environment, why not rent an Airbnb and have dinner at home?

Lisbon has one of the best fireworks shows for New Year’s. You will find amazing fireworks and concerts at Terreiro do Paco, the main square of the city. The Sao Jorge castle is also open to the public for midnight celebrations where you can watch the fireworks. 

The same can be said about New Year’s Eve in Porto. Boasting beautiful hotels and even a few Michelin-star restaurants, the city is the perfect backdrop for a magical New Year’s Eve. A beautiful fireworks display occurs, with pyrotechnics over the Douro river. In the historical center, people bar hop and enjoy the lively streets with a drink in hand.

If you are looking for a more relaxing New Year’s Eve, the Douro valley is a great option. You can enjoy amazing cuisine and wine by the fire of a comforting hotel. We recommend the Six Senses Douro Valley, The Vintage House, and the Douro Palace Hotel Resort & SPA.

Bad weather returns with risk of floods in Portugal

Lara Silva
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0
Bad weather returns with risk of floods in Portugal

Another week of bad weather is on its way. The Civil Protection is warning everyone in Portugal to watch out for the heavy rain coming Monday afternoon, which are likely to result in floods until Tuesday morning. Conditions similar to last week are expected where various urban areas flooded.

Heavy rain, thunder, and strong winds are expected to start this afternoon in most areas of mainland Portugal.

The next two days will include “large periods of heavy and persistent rain, accompanied by thunder and strong winds,” said the National Authority of Emergency and Civil Protection in a press conference. 

The areas most affected include the North and Center regions of Portugal, including Lisbon. The most critical time will happen in the early hours of Tuesday, December 20. 

Due to these weather predictions, 11 districts of the country are under “a yellow state of alert”: Viana do Castelo, Vila Real, Braga, Porto, Aveiro, Coimbra, Leiria, Viseu, Lisboa, Santarem, and Setubal. 

Commander Andre Fernandes of the Civil Protection is warning the public to “adopt measures of auto protection and change their driving in line with the meteorological situation.”

He also asks the public to “monitor the areas more susceptible to landslides and to avoid risky behavior in coastal areas.” Moreover, he suggests cleaning water circuits and creating protection barriers in homes, so water does not enter, such as metal plates. 

The weather is predicted to get better on Wednesday.

Between December 7 and December 15, the Civil Protection recorded over 7,900 incidents on national territory, including almost 5,000 floods and 88 displaced people. 

Winter Guide to Funchal: Winter Activities in Funchal 2023

Lara Silva
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0
Winter Guide to Funchal: Winter Activities in Funchal 2023

Funchal, the capital of Madeira, an archipelago situated in the Atlantic Ocean, 1000 kilometers from Lisbon and 700 kilometers from the Moroccan coast, is one of our favorite places to visit in the winter. An autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira and its capital enjoy moderate winters with sunny days. 

Funchal is the perfect city to visit in the winter, featuring plenty of activities that are easily enjoyed in the winter season without hoards of tourists. Before we get into the best winter activities in Funchal, let’s take a look at what the weather is really like during this season. 

Travel Guide to Funchal

Funchal in Winter: Funchal Weather in Winter

Winter is naturally the coldest season in Funchal, Madeira. However, temperatures are extremely moderate. The coldest months are February, and early March, where the minimum temperature is 14°C with a maximum of 20°C.

December is the rainiest month, with around 10 days of rain. January (8 days) and February (7 days) are also quite rainy, but in March, this pattern slows down. 

Weather in Portugal

6 Best Funchal Winter Activities

1. Ride the cable cars

What better way to see the views in Funchal in winter than protected from the rain and wind? Cable cars are the perfect activity for the whole family, as well as for a romantic date.

The best cable car is the one in Funchal, a 20-minute ride that goes up to 560 meters high. This one takes you from Funchal to Monte for 15 minutes, providing views of the mountains in Monte and a 360-view of Funchal.   

We also recommend the Achadas da Cruz cable car on the Northern part of Madeira in Porto Moniz. This cable car is around 450 meters high and passes through the Fajã da Quebrada Nova where you can see crystal clear waters.

Photo by Erik Karits (Flickr)

Book Cable Car Ticket

2. Wine tasting in Funchal

Did you know Madeira has its own wine? Wine is a big part of Madeirense culture and one that can be easily explored in Funchal. 

Madeira wine is a fortified wine that is made from a variety of grapes, such as Tinta Negra Mole, Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia. It has a higher alcohol level than the average wine, usually about 20%, so keep that in mind! You will find all kinds of Madeira wine, from very dry to sweet. 

Here are our favorite wine tasting experiences in Funchal:

3. Discover Madeira’s cuisine

Is there a better way to warm up than with delicious food? If you’re a big foodie, you need to book an experience dedicated to discovering Madeira’s cuisine. Is Madeirense food the same as in mainland Portugal? Although there are some similarities due to its geographic location, Madeira’s cuisine is unique to the island. 

The local cuisine is known for its soups, seafood, and exotic fruit, as well as some of the bread in the world. We recommend trying limpets, mollusks that are attached to rocks on the coast, and a prego no bolo de cacao, a grilled steak served on local caco bread.

Here are our favorite food tours in Funchal:

  • This food and cultural walking tour in Funchal allows you to make the most of your day by visiting seven different places and tasting local specialties.
  • This food, wine, and culture walking tour allows you to find the best local flavors on this 4-hour walking food tour while absorbing the rich culture of Madeira.
  • This food and wine walking tour takes you through Funchal’s restaurants and markets while learning about Madeira’s rich gastronomic history in a 3-hour tour. 

If instead of booking a food tour or experience, you want to venture out on your own, our favorite restaurants in Funchal are O Celeiro, Il Gallo D’Oro, and Quinta do Furão. 

4. Day trip to Santana

A 40-minute drive from Funchal, Santana is a unique municipality located along the northern coast of Madeira island. Santana is a Biosphere Reserve classified by UNESCO, featuring beautiful landscapes such as mountain ranges and river valleys. Santana is inhabited by less than 9,000 people and covers an area of 96.2 km2.

Santana is mostly known for the traditional architectural style featured in the Santana houses. The houses are red, white, and blue and have thatched roofs. Its unique style comes from its isolation. Santana was not accessible by sea and land, so the locals preserved its characteristics without outside influences.

To see these, head to the Center for Traditional Houses. Locals no longer live in these houses, but they are open to visitors. You will be able to see inside, including the quaint kitchens and where the locals keep their products. Many of the houses have been restored into shops for you to buy souvenirs. 

Traditional Santana house. Photo by Reiseuhu (Unsplash)

5. Winter beach day in Funchal

Who says you need 25-degree weather to spend a day at the beach? Beaches in Funchal are still beautiful in the winter.

You might not be inclined to take a dip, but a walk on the sand or picnic is a great activity to enjoy on a cold day. The sun is still likely to be out to warm you up! Funchal beaches offer a unique environment with a contrast of rock and mountain views. However, there are amazing beaches all over the island to explore!

Here are our favorite beaches in Madeira:

  • Praia do Porto do Seixal: This small beach has a cliff backdrop, with a large green mountain and a waterfall, providing a stunning contrast with the black sand.
  • Prainha Beach: A quiet beach for relaxing without the large crowds, you’ll find clear waters and a calming environment.
  • Faial Beach Complex: The Faial beach complex has a small pebble beach, as well as a natural pool that is isolated from the waves and strong winds. 
  • Calheta Beach: Located on the sunniest part of the island, this is one of the calmest beaches in Madeira, with no waves, making it the perfect beach for kids. 
  • Paul do Mar Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Madeira. The pebbled beach has great facilities, such as showers and restaurants nearby.
Paul do Mar Beach. Photo by Adam Johnson IG @Ias_bermudas

6. Take a ride on a Madeira “basket car”

Looking for an adrenaline rush to warm you up? We have just the activity for you! A traditional activity in Madeira is riding basket sledges down sloped streets, a tradition with more than one hundred years of history. 

These are wickerwork sleds on wooden runners on which you will be seated on. They will descend through the hills of the mountains with two men, called carreiros or sled drivers, on each side of the car controlling it.

These basket cars do not have mechanical breaks. However, don’t be scared, as you are in safe hands of experienced people. 

Book a Traditional Basket Ride

Funchal Winter: What to Pack

While winters in Madeira are not as cold as elsewhere, you will still need to pack accordingly. Here is a list of items to pack for Funchal in the winter:

  • Jeans
  • T-shirts
  • Long-sleeve sweaters
  • Warm hoodies
  • Scarf
  • Warm shoes and/or sneakers
  • Boots
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (the sun is strong even in winter)
  • Warm jacket
  • Raincoat with hood

Does it snow in Madeira?

Yes, kind of! It is becoming less frequent, but you can still find snow on the top of mountain peaks sometimes.

However, in November 2020, there were some areas of Madeira that had almost 1 meter of snow, which is unusual. Families went up to the mountains to enjoy the snow, playing with snowballs and sliding in the snow.

Still, if you want to visit somewhere in Portugal that is more likely to have snow, we suggest heading to mainland Portugal. It only snows in a few areas in mountainous zones up north.

The most common place to see snow in Portugal is in the Serra da Estrela mountains, the highest mountain range in Portugal.

Serra da Estrela is actually home to its own ski resort, as at the peak of the winter season, there is around 114 mm of snow.

However, while skiing and other ski sports are possible in Serra da Estrela, the amount and quality of snow are not the same as in other countries like Italy. 

Travel Guide – Serra da Estrela

Portugal’s FIFA World Cup Recap

Lara Silva
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Portugal’s FIFA World Cup Recap

After a strong performance the week before, Portugal was knocked out of World Cup on December 10 after losing against Morocco.

Portugal began in Group H for this year’s FIFA World Cup 2022, along with Ghana, Uruguay, and Korea. Portugal was able to beat Ghana (3 – 2) and Uruguay (2 – 0), while later losing against South Korea (2 – 1). 

However, it made up for its loss a few days later when Portugal beat Switzerland 6 – 1. This was Portugal’s biggest-ever victory in the knockout rounds of the World Cup and the third time the country reached the quarter-finals.

In this 6-1 victory, Portugal’s coach Fernando Santos opted to replace Cristiano Ronaldo with Gonçalo Ramos, who was the man of the night, scoring three goals on his first international debut.

Sadly, four days later, Morroco beat Portugal 1 – 0 in a less impressive performance for Portugal. Fans and players were equally devastated. Cristiano Ronaldo took to Instagram in an emotional message to fans, saying that his life long dream of winning a World Cup had ended. 

Portugal World Cup Match Recaps

Portugal – Ghana (3 – 2)

Portugal beat Ghana 3 – 2 in their opening game for Group H, marking their fifth successive game without defeat against African sides at the World Cup. In this match, Cristiano Ronaldo made history by becoming the first male player to score at five World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022). 

There were no goals in the first 64 minutes until Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal. Andre Ayew then scored a goal for Ghana at 73′. At this point, tension fills the stadium as the teams are tied.

However, only five minutes later, at 78′ Joao Felix scores a goal after a long pass from Bruno Fernandes. Portugal is in the lead again with 2 – 1 against Ghana!

No more than two minutes later, Rafael Leao scores at minute 80 after another assist by Bruno Fernandes. Things are looking good for Portugal.

At 89′, Ghana scores another goal after substitute Osman Bukari takes the game to 3 – 2.

At minute 90, 9 more minutes are added to the game. There’s still time for a tie. Ghana’s players make a couple of attempts at Costa’s goal but fail. Portugal wins 3 -2.

Portugal – Uruguay (2 – 0)

Portugal’s second game was eventful. Portugal advanced to the round of 16 after beating Uruguay 2 – 0, both goals scored by Bruno Fernandes. Bruno Fernandes scored twice at 54′ and 90 + 3′, the last goal during a penalty and was crowned man of the match.

Regarding the first goal, Cristiano Ronaldo thought he touched the ball in the first goal with his head. However, it was then shown this wasn’t the case, and the goal was credited to the Manchester United midfielder.

South Korea – Portugal (2 – 1)

Portugal lost against South Korea on December 2, although it still passed on to the next phase. South Korea seemed to have a strong defense tactic to keep the ball away from Portugal. 

At minute 5, Portuguese forward Ricardo Horta scored a goal with an assist by Dalot. At 27′, South Korean defender Kim Young-gwon scores the first goal for Korea. 

By halftime, South Korea and Portugal are tied 1 – 1. Throughout most of the second half, the score remains the same. It seems the game will go into extra time. However, at 90+1′ Korea’s Hwang Hee-chan scores after an assist by H. Son.

Portugal – Switzerland (6 – 1)

In possibly Portugal’s best performance, the national team beat Switzerland 6 – 1. Portugal had reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup for the third time, after 2006 and 1966.

Goncalo Ramos made his international debut extra special, scoring three goals.  He scored his first goal at 17′ with an assist by Joao Felix.

Pepe then took the match to 2 – 0 at 33′ after an assist by Bruno Fernandes. The first half of the game showed Portugal in the lead, playing a strong game.

A few minutes into the second half, Gonçalo Ramos scored at 51′, taking the match to 3 – 0. At 55′, Raphael Guerreiro scores after an assist by Ramos.

Three minutes later, at 58′, Manuel Akani scores for Switzerland, taking the match to 4 – 1.

At 67, Gonçalo Ramos scores the 5th goal after another Felix assist.

Cristiano Ronaldo enters the game at 73′, substituting Joao Felix. Ricardo Horta replaces Gonçalo Ramos, and Rafael Leao replaces Bruno Fernandes.

At 90 + 2′, Rafael Leao scores the final 6th goal after receiving the ball from Guerreiro. 

Morocco – Portugal (1 – 0)

The Morocco – Portugal game was both a stressful and historic match. Throughout the match, Portugal’s performance wasn’t as high as expected, although the stats remain in the country’s favor, with 74% possession and 85% pass accuracy. 

At minute 41′, Youssef En-Nesyri scored a historic goal for Morocco that remains the only goal scored during this match and ultimately gave Morocco the win. Although there was still hope in the second half, Portugal was not able to score a goal. 

Morocco became the first African team to qualify for the World Cup semi-final, making this a historic win. 

Portugal World Cup Players

Goalkeepers

  • Diogo Costa
  • José Sá
  • Rui Patrício

Defenders

  • Diogo Dalot
  • João Cancelo
  • António Silva
  • Danilo
  • Pepe (1 goal)
  • Ruben Dias
  • Nuno Mendes
  • Raphael Guerreiro (1 goal)

Midfielders

  • João Palhinha
  • Rúben Neves
  • Bernardo Silva
  • Bruno Fernandes (2 goals)
  • João Mário
  • Matheus Nunes
  • Otávio
  • Vitinha
  • William Carvalho

Forwards

  • André Silva
  • Cristiano Ronaldo (1 goal)
  • Gonçalo Ramos (Top Scorer – 3 goals)
  • João Félix (1 goal)
  • Rafael Leão (2 goals)
  • Ricardo Horta (1 goal)

Is this Ronaldo’s last World Cup?

This was likely Ronaldo’s last World Cup. In his interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo said that he wants “to finish at 40. I think 40 will be a good age, but I don’t know, I don’t know the future.”

Ronaldo will turn 38 in February 2023, so he will be over 40 in the next World Cup. Regarding the Euro 2024, Ronaldo has previously said he would like to play and obtain another victory for Portugal.

Ronaldo’s retirement age has not yet been confirmed, however. 

Has Portugal won any World Cups?

Portugal has never won a World Cup. However, it did win UEFA European Championship in 2016 after a final against France, as well as the UEFA Nations League in 2018. 

Food and Housing: Prices Hit New Records

Joana Almeida
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Food and Housing: Prices Hit New Records

According to a report in the expresso newspaper of December 2, 2022, “to buy the same set of essential products you need to spend 35.60 Euros more than nine months ago,” representing a substantial increase of 19.4% since the beginning of the war in Ukraine.

These products include foods with prices that have been hyperinflated. According to the same newspaper, not even a year ago, a kilo of rice would have cost around 1.14 Euros, and that price today is already approximately 1.80 Euros. The same happens with products like fresh hake, where a kilo went from 6 euros to around 10 euros (a 78% increase).

Portugal thus becomes one of the European Union countries where food prices have risen the most. And the future doesn’t look very bright, with prices expected to continue to rise. And while inflation has been a nightmare for everyone, in Portugal, prices have also increased due to the effect of the extreme and severe drought that hit the Portuguese territory.

The lack of water means no food for humans or animals. And with a large part of the cereals being imported from Ukraine, the closing of this market and the search for other alternatives have formed the perfect mixture for a huge problem: galloping inflation that has been strangling the financial capacity of many Portuguese, who are increasingly resorting to aid to be able to feed themselves.

It is no wonder that consumers’ choices have changed, opting for cheaper products, reducing quantities, and buying fewer products thought to be non-essential.

All this has put an enormous strain on the lives of the Portuguese, who constantly have to re-adapt to this price escalation.

As such, one could say that the middle class has become poor, while the poor are now miserable, and hunger is looming over the lives of many Portuguese.

Housing, an extra quandary in Portugal

But if the food basket and how much a Portuguese intends to spend on groceries is cause for alarm, the housing situation in Portugal is as disturbing, having become the new social scourge. There are no houses, and those that exist are directed at a wealthy class that the average Portuguese will never be able to reach.

For this reason, the exceptionally high housing prices in Portugal have already removed 76 thousand people from Lisbon and Porto, two cities where, according to the same newspaper, “between 2019 and 2021 have almost seen 10% of their population leave”. 

It is mainly young people who move to the outskirts, looking for more affordable houses to buy and rent. This phenomenon makes Portuguese cities reconfigure, with their centers becoming more filled with foreign inhabitants, so-called expats or digital nomads.

At the exorbitant price of everything, no Portuguese, whose average salary, according to the National Institute of Statistics, is around 1300 euros a month, will ever be able to afford rent of around this amount.

Therefore, they move far away, even though they keep their jobs in the city centers, which implies wasting more time in traffic jams, gaining more stress, and losing their quality of life.

In environmental terms, all this is a disaster because when looking for cheaper housing, this often means being far away from transportation, implying the use of cars to go to work, which is clearly harmful to the environment.

If they are not already so, the Portuguese risk becoming service providers for a foreign elite occupying their centers and inflating housing prices.

According to Visão magazine, from December 1, 2022, housing prices in Portugal “have soared by more than 80% since the beginning of 2016”, something widespread throughout Portugal but clearly more exponential in the metropolitan areas of Lisbon and Porto.

There, prices have doubled in many parishes, and in certain areas, according to the same magazine, houses have been sold “for prices equivalent to three or four times the national average.”

All this would be fine if wages kept up with all these prices. However, wages in Portugal still need to rise so Portuguese people can return to the cities where they grew up. 

In addition, the rental market, with its exorbitant prices, presents deplorable locations. Many rooms are over 300 Euros, some without windows or natural light.

The good ones that used to be rented to students have turned over to tourists, taking these spaces out of this niche market. At the same time, the student residences are insufficient, and one is lucky to get a place in them.

This news makes life difficult for many students and their families, who either give up studying or, if they can, make endless trips from home to university, spending more than four hours a day going back and forth. It is easy to see how someone, even if young, quickly loses academic performance.

Now all this seems like just numbers, statistics, and journalistic articles if we were not living through this. But I, too, as a young person—not getting that young anymore—find myself at this enormous crossroads of getting a space of my own that I can finally call home. 

Constantly working precarious jobs, my generation has been putting life off, always hoping for better days. And even though employability may be higher now than it was a few years ago, we now find ourselves in the dilemma of not being able to afford a life in Portugal.

It is no wonder that about 30% of young Portuguese between the ages of 25 and 34 still live with their parents. Clearly, in a country with such a demographic problem, these people will also put off starting a family.

All this becomes a chain of events. The housing problem and inflation aggravate the demographic crisis in a country eager for generational renewal.

Investing in construction

Construction investment seems to be the easy way out in a country where the sector has had a massive problem restructuring itself after the 2008 financial crisis. The bureaucracy regarding licensing, always delayed in the city councils, makes the product more expensive in a world where time is clearly money.

From personal experience, being the daughter of an ex-builder and the sister of a civil engineer, the 2008 crisis was just the culmination of a problem that started to be visible at the beginning of the millennium.

And if now there is a shortage of houses and buyers, the feeling twenty years ago was that there were plenty of houses but a lack of people to buy them. This resulted in the indebtedness of several construction companies that dissolved and never opened again. 

On the other hand, there is a considerable lack of workforce in the sector. There is no investment in professional schools to train people for this sector. But it’s easy to understand why no one wants to follow this career. It’s not attractive; a tough job with meager salaries doesn’t make anyone want to dedicate their lives to it. 

This is a paradox since houses are sold at million-dollar prices, but those who make them, now mainly African immigrants, continue to have miserable salaries and, in many places, also poor working conditions.

Population imbalance 

This whole housing situation is again aggravated by the maldistribution of the Portuguese population. We have an increasingly overloaded coastline and a more desertified interior. And on the coast, where the territory for construction is already limited, prices clearly tend to rise. 

Meanwhile, less inhabited areas are less attractive for various reasons (no leisure options, no job opportunities, poor access), becoming, in many cases, dormitories and putting more pressure on an already overcrowded territory.

With such an incipient economy and uncompetitive wages, the struggle for fundamental rights such as food and housing has become a real burden in the lives of the Portuguese, who constantly worry about being able to feed themselves and have a roof over their heads.

Christmas Traditions in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Christmas Traditions in Portugal

Christmas is the most celebrated holiday in Portugal, one that has become more cultural than religious. Christmas traditions in Portugal have been for many decades set in stone and passed on, while in recent years, many have had to adapt some for convenience and affordability.

The Portuguese celebrate Christmas on December 24 and 25, with Christmas eve being the main celebration. On January 6, another celebration is quite common to bring about the end of the Christmas season. Let’s take a look at the Christmas traditions in Portugal!

Christmas Eve in Portugal

While in other countries Christmas day is the most important celebration, this isn’t the case in Portugal. Christmas eve on December 24th is the main day of celebration. Families get together to enjoy dinner and celebrate until late.

Gatherings tend to start between 6 and 7 pm. While dinner is only served later, between 8 and 9 pm, for a few hours, families enjoy their time together, drinking wine and enjoying some starters. 

For Christmas eve dinner in Portugal, the star of the show tends to be bacalhau or salted cod. During the “Consoada” Portuguese families tend to enjoy cod baked in the oven with potatoes, boiled egg, and cabbage. Cod is usually also served as a starter ingredient in pasteis de bacalhau, battered codfish fritters. 

Some families enjoy cod as a main dish in another dish. The Portuguese say that there are 1001 ways to cook cod. Another Christmas eve dish with this ingredient is Bacalhau a Gomes de Sa, where the cod is cooked with potatoes, onions, and layered with a hard-boiled egg.

However, the price of cod has been increasing exponentially, where today most cannot afford a whole cod. Therefore, many will opt for another Christmas eve dinner that is more affordable. 

Any left over cod is put away for the next day and made into “roupa velha”, translated into “old clothes”. This is a mix of cod, potatoes, Portuguese cabbage, and boiled egg that is delicious. 

Photo by Libby Penner (Unsplash)

After dinner, there are many delicious desserts to enjoy. The table tends to be switched into a “dessert table” with many Portuguese Christmas desserts on display. The most traditional Christmas dessert in Portugal is the Bolo Rei, a traditional cake filled with fruits and nuts. Other traditional desserts include arroz doce, rabanadas, pao de lo, and sonhos. 

After dinner, families will enjoy some Port wine and coffee while socializing, laughing, and playing games. 

Presents are traditionally open at midnight. Even small kids will often stay awake until this time to open presents. There is often a delegated Christmas present giver that will stand by the Christmas tree and give out everyone’s presents.

However, for the more religious, midnight is for the Missa do Galo. This is a mass celebrated on Christmas eve that starts at midnight. Catholics head to their local church for this important mass. They will later open presents or do so beforehand. 

Families will then spend time together for a few more hours after opening presents and then head to their respective homes. Christmas eve can actually end pretty late for many families, at like 1 or 2 am. 

Christmas Day in Portugal

Christmas day in Portugal is a day of rest. Usually, presents have already been opened. However, there might be extra family or friends coming on the 25th, so there might still be a few presents to open! 

Lunch starts between 1 and 2 pm. On Christmas day in Portugal, the main dish tends to be a meat one such as cabrito assado no forno. This is a delicious oven-roasted lamb with roast potatoes. Alternatively, a stuffed turkey might also be the main dish as it is more affordable. 

The traditional “roupa velha”, a mix of last night’s cod, potatoes, and cabbage might also be available as a side or starter. 

After lunch, the Christmas desserts will be present again, such as Bolo Rei, arroz doce, rabanadas, etc. 

The rest of the day is usually spent socializing or watching Christmas movies on the television as a family. Some will even take a nap on the couch. Friends and extended family members might even come by after lunch to bring presents or enjoy some dessert!

Traditional Portuguese Christmas Food

Bacalhau: Salted cod is a Portuguese staple for Christmas, particularly on Christmas eve. The most traditional way to prepare it is to bake it in the oven and serve it with boiled potatoes, eggs, and Portuguese cabbage.

Cabrito Assado: Oven-roasted lamb is traditionally served for lunch on Christmas day, accompanied by roasted potatoes. 

Photo by Karelman (Flickr)

Peru Recheado: Also served on Christmas day as a more affordable alternative, a turkey is stuffed with vegetables and other ingredients. 

Roupa Velha: Roupa velha is a way of fighting food waste, using the leftover cod from Christmas eve and mixing it with potatoes, egg, and cabbage. It is then drizzled with quality olive oil and served for lunch on Christmas day.

Photo by Pedro Varela (Flickr)

Bolo Rei: A fluffy cake filled with fruits and nuts traditionally eaten on Christmas Day (December 25) and Kings Day (January 6). 

Photo by Britta Frahm (Flickr)

Arroz Doce: This “sweet rice” recipe is made with rice slow cooked in sweet milk and topped with cinnamon.

Photo by PortoBay Experiences (Flickr)

Rabanadas: Similar to French toast, the Portuguese rabanadas are fried bread coated with sugar and cinnamon. 

Photo by Francisco Antunes (Flickr)

Pão de Ló: This Portuguese dessert is a humid cake with egg yolks. Some are made drier, and others are covered with sugar for an added flavor.

Sonhos: Meaning “dreams” in Portuguese, sonhos are deep-fried pastry balls covered with sugar and cinnamon

Christmas Gifts in Portugal

Gift-giving is an important part of Portuguese culture, particularly during Christmas. This is highlighted by the fact that the Portuguese receive an extra monthly salary for Christmas. 

For Portuguese families, the heart of this tradition is placed on children. Children will often receive a gift from each family member, as well as friends and extended family friends. This looks different in every family due to finances, but it is quite common for kids to be showered with gifts.

It is also common for friends and family to give each other gifts, although these do not have to be expensive or luxurious at all. Still, the Portuguese tend to spend a portion of their salary on Christmas gifts. 

While “Secret Santa” is becoming more popular, particularly in times of economic difficulties, it is still not mainstream. Most families give gifts to each person in attendance.

If you are invited into someone’s home for Christmas, it is a sign of respect to bring gifts, at least for the hosts. A gift can be some wine and a nice cake such as a Bolo Rei. 

The hosts will have spent a lot of money on preparing the festivities, particularly on groceries, as these can be quite expensive. However, in Portugal, asking to pitch in for Christmas groceries is not very socially acceptable unless you have a very close relationship with the hosts. 

End of Christmas: Dia dos Reis

The Christmas season only technically ends on January 6, on “Dia dos Reis” which translates to “Day of the Kings.” This is the day when traditionally, the Portuguese pack up their Christmas trees and decorations, saying goodbye to the season.

This day is a Catholic celebration that says that three wise men, known as Reis Magos, visited baby Jesus on the night of January 5 after being guided by a star. The three kings, Belchior, Baltazar, and Gaspar, gifted Jesus gold, incense, and myrrh. 

On this day, Portuguese families get together to celebrate the end of Christmas. They enjoy Christmas dishes such as codfish, Bolo Rei, rabanadas, and more, as they would on the 24th and 25th. 

However, many Portuguese families no longer celebrate this day. Many even leave their Christmas tree up until the end of January. 

Heavy rain and flooding return to Lisbon a week later

Lara Silva
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Heavy rain and flooding return to Lisbon a week later

Throughout the night, the Portuguese Civil Protection registered over 1,000 incidents in Portugal, mostly related to flooding. Over 30% of the registered incidents occurred in the Lisbon district, which was under red alert due to heavy rain and flooding. 

The Civil Protection is asking everyone in Portugal to avoid leaving their home, with Lisbon City Hall urging people not to enter Lisbon. Schools are likely to close. 

The Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, highlighted that while such rain events are common every 50 years, weekly events are a matter of concern. 

Most of the incidents were registered in Algés. Last week, a similar scenario occurred where Algés faced heavy flooding, and a person died. This week, the tunnel of Algés station was completely underwater. 

Those in Portugal received on Monday a Civil Protection alert warning about possible flooding in Leiria, Setubal, Lisbon, Evora, Santarem, and Portalegre.

The following roads and locations are closed or compromised in Lisbon this morning:

  • Túneis Campo Pequeno + 2 Campo Grande + Av Joao XXI + Av. Berlim
  • Acesso Eixo Norte Sul
  • Radial de Benfica
  • Av. Infante D. Henrique junto ao Túnel Batista Russo
  • Estrada do Penedo
  • Alcântara (many places)
  • Radial de Benfica
  • Sete Rios
  • Av. de Santo Contestável
  • Av. 24 de Julho até Belém

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