Portugal bjuder härmed in hela världen till att upptäcka vad det är som gör vår gastronomi så unik.

Rätter och ingredienser är förstås viktiga, med det är även hela upplevelsen. Den ska vara äkta och erbjuda färskhet, äkthet, kreativitet, hållbarhet och gästfrihet i ett enda recept. Portugisisk mat återspeglar verkligen landets kultur, där varje måltid berättar en historia och avslöjar en själ som lever och andas in landets och havets smaker.

Färska produkter från hav och land
Hemligheten med portugisisk mat börjar med färska ingredienser. Atlanten som smyckar kusten garanterar fisk och skaldjur av hög kvalitet och är en inspirationskälla. Föreställ dig att du åtnjuter nyfångad fisk som lagats på enklast möjliga vis för att framhäva dess naturliga smaker och som serveras med säsongens grönsaker.

Din fisk kan tillagas på olika sätt beroende på i vilken del av landet du befinner dig. I Algarve i söder kan enkla och smakrika fiskrätter tillagas i en cataplana som återspeglar havets sanna smaker, medan det är grytor som tar fram smakerna i centrala Portugal. I Porto i norr är torsk som fiskare fångat i haven runt Newfoundland en favorit på det portugisiska matbordet, med många recept som är döpta efter den plats där de uppfanns: à Moda de (vilket betyder ”på ett specifikt vis”) Viana eller Braga eller Monção eller på annan plats, men den tillagas på hundra olika sätt över hela landet. Längsmed hela kusten tillför skaldjur en fräsch upplevelse till bordet. 

Färskhet är dock inte bara begränsad till ingredienser från havet. Färsk frukt, kryddörter och grönsaker som odlats på ett traditionellt sätt och med respekt för jorden spelar alla en nyckelroll i varje maträtt. Sambandet mellan naturen och smaker är en inbjudan att resa runt de olika landskapen och lära känna varje regions unika produkter. Alentejos utbredda slätter är rika på produkter som hyllar jordens smaker, såsom olivolja.

Ursprunglig äkthet
I Portugal innehåller varje maträtt en berättelse om sitt ursprung och hedrar traditionen samtidigt som det finns plats för innovation. Rätternas äkthet ligger i ingredienserna och expertisen hos de som lagar dem. Oavsett om det är ett gammalt recept som har gått i arv eller en modern nytolkning bevaras alltid den portugisiska matens sanna innebörd – den är enkel men smakfull samt traditionsenlig.
Den traditionella specialiteten espetada från Madeira bestående av marinerat nötkött som grillats på spett tillverkade av lagerträd och serveras med stekt majs speglar öns historia. Alheiras (en slags korv) från Trás-os-Montes är ytterligare ett exempel på kunnande som gått i arv från generation till generation. Många kockar har använt denna månghundraåriga delikatess som grunden för sina kreationer.

Kreativitet som förvandlar och flödar
Den nya generationen av portugisiska kockar förvandlar landets gastronomi med en modigare och mer intensiv inställning samtidigt som de hedrar arvet från de äldre generationerna. Dessa kulinariska konstnärer blåser nytt liv i traditionella maträtter, kombinerar dem med modernt inflytande och presenterar dem på ett sätt som kan vara överraskande. Varje måltid är som en tom målarduk där kreativiteten främjar smak, plats och form med en oförglömlig gastronomisk upplevelse som resultat. Och varje dag ser vi allt fler restauranger som vill följa med på resan, vilket speglar inspirationen som skaparna i köksförkläden tillför, och som är förtjusta att kavla upp ärmarna och gå till verket.

Hållbarhet i köket
Portugal som alltid är medveten om utmaningar inom miljöområdet strävar efter hållbarhet som en av grundpelarna i sin gastronomi. Respekt för naturens cykler och medveten användning av naturresurser är principer som återspeglas i de viner och maträtter som serveras på restauranger och karaktäristiska matställen. Hållbarhet, från lokal och organisk produktion till användning av alla delar av varje ingrediens, är mer än en trend: det är ett åtagande gentemot framtida generationer och ett tecken på respekt för allt det som jorden har att erbjuda.

Ett varmt välkomnande
Gästfriheten är en av den portugisiska gastronomins största kännetecken, vare sig du äter på en prisbelönt restaurang eller på en traditionell krog. Den generositet med vilken maträtter lagas och serveras speglar enkelheten hos ett folk som alltid har varit varmt välkomnande. I Portugal handlar en måltid inte bara om att stilla hungern utan det är en sällskaplig samvaro där frikostighet, gemytlighet och glädje över att få sitta runt ett bord tillsammans är basingredienser – ett faktum som förevigades av fadosångerskan Amália Rodrigues i sången ”Uma Casa Portuguesa” (”ett portugisiskt hem”). Varje måltid är en hyllning till livet, där njutningen av att äta förenas med det varma välkomnande som det portugisiska folket erbjuder sina gäster och besökare.

Portugal på bordet: en unik upplevelse
Portugisisk mat är en upplevelse i äkthet, färskhet, kreativitet, hållbarhet och gästfrihet. Det är en resa genom de fem sinnena där du upptäcker kulturen och traditionerna hos ett land som gör gastronomi till en äkta konst.

Kom och sätt dig vid Portugals bord och känn dig som hemma omgiven av oförglömliga smaker, berättelser och en frikostig dos av gästfrihet. Portugisisk gastronomi är mer än bara en måltid – det är en inbjudan att njuta av livet i all sin prakt.

Portugal is extending an invitation to the world: come and discover what makes our gastronomy unique.

The dishes and ingredients are important, of course, but so too is the overall experience, one that is meant to be genuine and which combines freshness, authenticity, creativity, sustainability and generosity in a single recipe. Portuguese cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s culture, where each meal tells a story and reveals a soul that lives and breathes the flavours of the land and the sea.

Freshness from the sea and from the land

The secret of Portuguese cuisine begins with the freshness of the ingredients. The Atlantic Ocean that bathes the coast guarantees quality fish and seafood and is a source of inspiration. Imagine yourself savouring some freshly-caught fish, prepared in the simplest of ways to enhance its natural flavour and served with seasonal vegetables.

Your fish may be cooked in different ways depending on the region. In the Algarve, to the south, simple and tasty fish dishes can be made in a cataplana, reflecting the authentic flavour of the sea, whereas In Central Portugal, it is the stews that bring out the flavours. Meanwhile, in Porto and the North, the cod brought by fishermen from the seas of Newfoundland became a favourite at Portuguese tables, with many recipes adopting the names of places where they were invented: à Moda de (which means “in the style of”) Viana or Braga or Monção or wherever, but it is cooked in hundreds of different ways all over the country. All along the coast, seafood brings refreshing experiences to the table.

Freshness is not limited to ingredients from the sea, however. Seasonal fruits, aromatic herbs and vegetables, grown in a traditional way and with respect for the land, all have a key role to play in every dish. The connection between nature and flavours is an invitation to travel through the landscapes and get to know the authentic products of each region. In the case of Alentejo, its vast plains are rich in products that celebrate the flavours of the land, such as olive oil.

Authenticity from within

In Portugal, every dish carries the history of its origins, respecting tradition but still leaving room for innovation. Their authenticity lies in the ingredients and expertise of those who prepare them. Whether it’s an old recipe that’s been handed down or a contemporary reinterpretation makes no difference; the true essence of Portuguese cuisine will be maintained regardless, simple yet flavourful and true to tradition.

Consisting of marinated beef, cooked on laurel stick skewers and served with fried corn, the traditional Madeiran kebab is a dish that reflects the island’s history. Alheiras (a type of cured sausage) from Trás-os-Montes are another example of know-how handed down from generation to generation. A number of chefs have used this centuries-old delicacy as the basis for their creations.

Creativity that transforms and overflows

The new generation of Portuguese chefs is transforming the country’s gastronomy, taking a bolder and more vibrant approach, while still respecting the legacy of generations past. These culinary artists breathe new life into traditional dishes, combining them with modern influences and presenting them in ways that might surprise you. Every meal is a blank canvas, where creativity nurtures flavour, space and shape, resulting in unforgettable gastronomic experiences. And every day we see more and more restaurants signing up for the ride, reflecting the inspiration of the apron-clad creators, who are delighted to roll up their sleeves and get to work.

Sustainability in the kitchen

Ever-mindful of environmental challenges, Portugal is committed to sustainability as one of the pillars of its gastronomy. Respect for the cycles of nature and the mindful use of natural resources are practices that are reflected in the wines and dishes served in restaurants and typical eateries. From local and organic production to making use of every part of every ingredient, sustainability is more than a trend: it is a commitment to future generations and a mark of respect for what the earth has to offer.

A generous welcome

Portuguese hospitality is one of the biggest calling cards of its gastronomy, whether you eat in an award-winning restaurant or in a traditional tavern. The generosity with which the dishes are prepared and served reflects the simplicity of a people who always extend the warmest of welcomes. In Portugal, eating is not just about satisfying hunger; it is a social occasion, where sharing, conviviality and the joy of being together at the table are fundamental ingredients – a fact immortalised by fado singer Amália Rodrigues in the song "Uma Casa Portuguesa" (“A Portuguese Home”). Every meal is a celebration of life, where the pleasure of eating blends with the warm welcome that the Portuguese offer to their guests and visitors.

Portugal at the table: a unique experience

Portuguese cuisine is an experience of authenticity, freshness, creativity, sustainability and generosity. It is a journey through the five senses, in which you discover the culture and traditions of a country that makes gastronomy a true art.

Come and sit down at Portugal’s table and feel at home, surrounded by unforgettable flavours, stories and a generous dose of the art of hospitality. Portuguese gastronomy is more than just a meal; it is an invitation to savour life in all its splendour.

Embark on a journey of discovery and sustainability in the Algarve.

Soak up the sun, enjoy the best swims in the sea, and as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscapes and Algarve culture, consider the importance of conserving water during your stay. Choose to use water efficiently in the territory you are visiting. Every little gesture counts!

Water is one of the planet's primary resources, and its conscious use presents a challenge for each and every one of us. In Portugal, we are committed to minimizing climate change by preserving this resource. Therefore, we invite you to enjoy the destination differently, with a heightened awareness of nature protection and a balanced approach to natural resource usage. Join us in preserving this essential resource for life.

Did you know…?
A conscious and responsible tourist can save up to 235 liters of water daily during their stay by choosing to consume below-average amounts? Get involved, support local communities, minimize your environmental footprint... make a difference for a better planet. Save water. Protect the future.

To ensure that your visit has a positive impact, we suggest adopting small habits to save water while travelling.

Save water

We often use more water than necessary without realizing it. Opt for shorter showers or turn off the water while soaping.

Choose efficient accommodations

Choose accommodation units that implement water-saving technologies, such as using low-flow faucets and recycling systems.

Reuse towels

Let your accommodation know if you'd like to reuse towels to save water. It’s a well-known practice, but it never hurts to reinforce it.

Respect water sources

In the territories, avoid wasting water in leisure activities and use it responsibly in swimming pools and spas.

Stay informed

Learn more about the importance of water in the region and how you can contribute to conservation efforts during your stay in Portugal.

Reduce plastic use

Support local initiatives to reduce plastic waste and contribute to global water conservation efforts.

Adopt these simple habits, contribute to the sustainability of tourism in Portugal, and make a difference in preserving natural beauty for future generations.

For a Better Planet, Better Tourism. This is not Tourism. This is Futourism.

Welcome to a new era of travel! Let's redefine our journey with a set of resolutions that can change the world. Embrace the philosophy of "It's not tourism. It's Futourism" with us, transcending traditional norms to embark on a more meaningful, sustainable, and immersive journey.

Make 12 Resolutions to seamlessly integrate into your 2024 travels.

Travel with purpose and to connect. The tourist of the future engages with locals, creating meaningful human connections and fostering a commitment to cultural exchange.

Step away from the screen, leave your mobile phone behind, and immerse yourself in real experiences. The tourist of the future values presence over selfies, understanding that not everything needs to be captured for social media.

Take responsibility for your waste and garbage. Treat our planet with the care it deserves. The tourist of the future actively participates in preserving the beauty of every destination, ensuring no trace is left behind.

Seek the unusual; reject the pre-defined. The tourist of the future embraces the unique and avoids the commonplace, crafting a personalized journey that goes beyond the ordinary.

Unfranchise your mind and stomach. Discover new ingredients and traditional recipes right where you are. The tourist of the future craves authentic, local experiences, eschewing the globally standardized offerings.

Embrace a lifestyle of mindful travel. Leave a positive footprint with every step, understanding the impact of your journey. The traveler of the future enjoys the fulfillment and fun derived from responsible exploration.

Travel with climate consciousness. Aim for zero emissions and an open mind. The tourist of the future understands the importance of sustainability and actively contributes to preserving our planet.

Travel with humility; avoid negative impacts on resources, local communities, and the environment. The tourist of the future aims for a minimal footprint and gives back to the places visited.

Break away from the masses. Be a trendsetter, discovering the yet-to-be-explored beyond the usual tourist spots. The tourist of the future leads the way in uncovering hidden gems.

Appreciate heritage with respect. The tourist of the future understands the value of monuments and local art, actively contributing to their preservation.

Take it slow, savor the journey. The tourist of the future is not a hurried passenger but an immersive explorer, allowing each destination to fulfill its destiny — leaving indelible memories on the soul and mind.

Travel is a collective privilege that goes beyond personal enrichment. The future-focused traveler values respect for humanity, diverse cultures, and the planet. They balance their next adventure with a commitment to the well-being of the next generation and Earth, fostering a mindful and sustainable approach to exploration.

Each one of us holds the power to shape the future of travel. As tourists of the future our journey is more than just a visit; it's a positive impact, a footprint of care and respect we leave at every destination. Because, at the end, traveling consciously is not just a choice, it's a legacy we build together. Join us on this transformative journey. It's not just tourism, it's Futourism.

Would you rather dream of galaxies far far away or would you rather get close to a new universe? Situated in the extreme south-west of Europe, Portugal and the US are only separated by the Atlantic Ocean. 

Portugal is the country with the oldest borders in Europe, with an exceptional range of different landscapes just a short distance away. The highlights of Portugal's attractions are culture & heritage, the gastronomy, not to mention the beaches, surfing, nature, and friendly people making it a tourist paradise.

The best that Portugal has to offer was shown on Times Square digital billboards, in New York, on the 18th November, while the Madame Tussauds Museum announced its new wax figure: Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portuguese well-known throughout the world.

And do you know why Portugal is worth visiting? We’ll give you some clues here.

The cities: Lisbon and Porto
Lisbon and Porto are two very attractive cities. Both are bathed by a river that gives them a characteristic and different environment. They are hospitable places with their historic neighbourhoods and streets with tiled façades, to get to know by day or enjoy on a night out, along with examples of modern architecture and urban art, and they also have a really diverse and creative cultural agenda. Lisbon is a city with a special radiance, which comes from the Tagus river and the proximity of the sea. Porto, an ancient city, whose historic centre has been classified as World Heritage, is the point of arrival of the River Douro, on whose valley slopes the famous Port wine is cultivated.

Sun, Beach, Sea and Surfing
The presence of the Atlantic Ocean and the climate, with very sunny summers and mild winters make Portugal a holiday destination renowned for sun and sea and walks on the beach throughout the year. More than 850 km with golden sand offering a diversity of landscapes that allows you to choose between the rougher and cooler sea in the north and the warm, placid waters of the south.

Surfers of all types find on the Portuguese coast the largest number of spots with the least distance between them. There are perfect tubular waves in Peniche, giant waves in Nazaré, and the longest in Europe in Figueira da Foz. Ericeira, meanwhile, was the 1st Surfing Reserve in Europe and 2nd at world level. So you see, you can come to Portugal a number of times and always get a different wave!

Nature and Cycling & Walking Trails
The Natural Parks and Reserves, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves recognised by UNESCO have ensured that Portugal is also a destination very appreciated for enjoying outdoor activities, whether they are more contemplative, such as bird watching, or more extreme, like canyoning. In the last few years, following nature trails on foot or by bike has been a good choice for those who like to combine physical exercise and contact with the local culture.

World Heritage
The 17 World Heritage Sites in Portugal portray the history and culture of the country, its people and the peoples that have inhabited the land since time immemorial. Monasteries and convents of historic and artistic importance, outstanding monuments, historic centres, cultural landscapes, which offer some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Portugal, were considered by UNESCO as being a part of World Heritage.
A visit to these Portuguese contributions to world history are a must and a good excuse to get to know the country from north to south.

The last, but not the least one of the things that tourists notice most when they visit us, is the hospitality and friendliness of the Portuguese, who are always ready to help if they are stopped on the street and asked for information. Perhaps it is the sun which gives us a good disposition, to welcome anyone, wherever they’re from…

Today we are closer than ever. And we intend to keep it that way. Because when we treasure something, we keep it close to us.

Get closer to Portugal.

Open to Hope. Open to Love. Open to Solidarity. Open to Receive, Relocate and Help. Open to Freedom and Peace.

Відкрита для Надії. Відкрита для Кохання. Відкрита для Солідарності. Відкрита для прийому, переселення та допомоги Українцю. Відкрита для Свободи та Миру.

PORTUGAL FOR UKRAINE
Платформа - Португалія Для України

https://portugalforukraine.gov.pt
sosucrania@acm.gov.pt
Migrant Support Line / Лінія підтримки мігрантів: +351 218 106 191 / 808 257 257 (available for foreigners who don’t speak Portuguese / Доступно для іноземців, які не розмовляють португальською)

The Portugal for Ukraine platform aims to combine in one place all the Portuguese State actions underway regarding the conflict in Ukraine, in terms of international action, sending humanitarian aid and the integration and hosting of displaced persons in Portugal.
Information about:

• Documentation
• Accommodation
• Employment
• Health support

Платформа - Португалія Для України, має на меті об’єднати в одному місці всі дії португальської держави щодо конфлікту в Україні з точки зору міжнародних дій, відправлення гуманітарної допомоги та інтеграції та розміщення переміщених осіб у Португалії.
Інформація про:

• Документація
• Проживання
• Працевлаштування
• Підтримка здоров'я

SOS UKRAINE
www.acm.gov.pt/-/sos-ucrania
sosucrania@acm.gov.pt 

The ACM (Alto Comissariado para as Migrações / High Commission for Migration) provides information and useful contacts for Ukrainian citizens and their families of other nationalities who intend, for reasons of armed conflict and humanitarian reasons, to live in Portugal, as well as for Ukrainian citizens who are already in national territory, and for all members of society who want to support their hosting and integration.

ACM (Alto Comissariado para as Migrações / Висока комісія з питань міграції) надає інформацію та корисні контакти для громадян України та їхніх сімей інших національностей, які мають намір через збройний конфлікт та гуманітарні причини жити в Португалії, а також для українців. громадян, які вже перебувають на національній території, а також для всіх членів суспільства, які хочуть підтримати їх розміщення та інтеграцію.

WeHelpUkraine.org
wehelpukraine.org

WeHelpUkraine.org is a platform to help Ukrainian refugees find living support Worldwide.
We are united for the people of Ukraine. From those who can help - to those who need it most.

WeHelpUkraine.org – це платформа, яка допомагає українським біженцям знайти живу підтримку по всьому світу.
Ми разом заради народу України. Від тих, хто може допомогти – до тих, хто цього найбільше потребує.

Information for Portuguese Citizens in Ukraine | Інформація для громадян Португалії в Україні
Updated information, including alerts, addressed to Portuguese Citizens who are in Ukraine.
Оновлена ​​інформація, включаючи сповіщення, адресована громадянам Португалії, які перебувають в Україні. 

https://portaldascomunidades.mne.gov.pt/ (in Portuguese)
https://eportugal.gov.pt/ 
gec@mne.pt

Consular Emergency Office | Консульська служба з надзвичайних ситуацій:  +351 217 929 714 | +351 961 706 472
Special measures by the Ministry of Justice to support Portuguese citizens and their families in Ukraine | Спеціальні заходи Міністерства юстиції для підтримки громадян Португалії та їхніх сімей в Україні: : https://justica.gov.pt (in Portuguese)

In the extreme southwest of Europe, Portugal is a unique country that justifies a delayed visit. Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, it is a country known for its beaches and the practice of outdoor activities and the fact that it has a good climate, with mild winters, allows it to be visited all year round. The vast cultural heritage is somehow represented by the 21 UNESCO classifications as World Heritage, that reflect the most important periods of Portuguese history and culture.

However, if you only have 2 or 3 days to visit Portugal, we suggest you to visit at least Lisbon and Porto, the two most important cities in the country.

Two days in Lisbon Region

Day 1
The historical neighbourhoods of central Lisbon are perfect for visitors. Their culture, the history, the architecture and the people are fundamental aspects of Lisbon’s identity. The Bairro Alto is one of the most characterful and attractive neighbourhoods in the city – it has boutiques and bars and is a place where people meet in an eclectic and multicultural atmosphere. 


Photo: Chiado, Lisboa by José Manuel

From Bairro Alto stroll down to Chiado, the sophisticated hub for the city’s young people, artists and intellectuals. It is an area of iconic cafés including “A Brasileira”, art schools, and theatres. 

The Carmo area, next to Chiado, has some fascinating historical sites, such as the Convent and Church of Carmo, which maintains their elegance and grandeur. Carmo is connected to Baixa by the Elevador de Santa Justa, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard. It is open to the public and boasts impressive views over the downtown of Lisbon.

The Baixa is the city's traditional shopping district where visitors can stroll around the streets and find dozens of shops offering a wide range of “temptations”.
When there is no time to shop during a tour of the historic districts of the city, you can concentrate all your energies on the shopping centres: Amoreiras, Columbo and Vasco da Gama are the largest, but Campo Pequeno and Saldanha are also alternatives worth considering. 


Photo: View from São Jorge Castle, Lisboa

Highlights
Start your tour at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara and walk around downtown Lisbon and Chiado

- Visit to Lisbon São Jorge Castle and walk down Alfama 
Although it was at the castle that everything began, historical sites can be found across the city. As the capital of the Portuguese Empire, Lisbon boasts a thousand years of history, and is peppered with monuments of great importance, reflecting the key moments in the country’s history. 

- Visit Terreiro do Paço and Rua Augusta Arch
Rua Augusta is the main artery of the Baixa Pombalina leading north from Terreiro do Paço (known as Black Horse Square by the English), to the beautiful Praça do Rossio (Praça Dom Pedro IV).

- Shopping in Avenida da Liberdade
Discover Avenida da Liberdade, which in the 19th century was the favourite promenade for the Lisbon elite. Today, the Avenida is home to exclusive international boutiques to tempt and inspire.

- Take a tram tour through the historic districts

- Dinner in a Restaurant with Fado

Day 2

Sintra
In the morning, visit Sintra Downtown and Pena National Palace (UNESCO Heritage).


Photo: Palácio da Vila, Sintra

Sintra is an inexhaustible attraction. The perfect symbiosis between nature and its built heritage led to its classification by UNESCO as World Heritage, at the category of Cultural Landscape, in 1995. The town has been adored over the years by artists and writers from all over the world and the passion for the town reached its peak in the 19th century, in the heart of the romantic era. Essentially, it is the perfect fusion between natural richness and the magnificence of its monuments, combined in an extreme beauty. 

In the Historic Town Centre, stands the Paço Real, one of the many monumental buildings surrounded and watched over by the grandeur of the Serra de Sintra, which offers endless different walks. 

Sintra has unique examples of parks and gardens and has influenced many European landscapes. The highlights are Parque da Pena and Jardins de Monserrate. High in the Serra, on one of its steep peaks, we can find the Palácio da Pena, the most complete and notable example of Portuguese Romantic architecture, recently restored and painted in the original colours and standing out among the surrounding greenery. Built on the site of the ruins of the Mosteiro Jerónimo de Nossa Senhora da Pena, the palace dates back to 1839. 


Photo: Cabo da Roca

Visit Cabo da Roca and return to Lisbon taking the coastal road of Cascais and Estoril. Cabo da Roca is the most westerly point in mainland Europe and it was immortalised by the poet Camões as the place “where the earth finishes and the sea starts”.

Belém
In the afternoon, visit the neighborhood of the Discoveries. Next along the riverside it has a large number of heritage sites connected with the Portuguese voyages of discovery. It was from the beach in Belém that Vasco da Gama, in 1497, set sail to discover the sea route to India and the grandiosity of the former empire can be sensed throughout the area. One of the most imposing symbols of the city is here - the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, the construction which was started in 1501 by King Manuel I and finished a century later. Royal, religious, naturalist and nautical decorative elements combine to create a building that is considered the jewel of the distinctively Portuguese Manueline style, and has been recognised as a  World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO. 


Photo: Belém

One Day in Porto
On a brief visit to Porto, there are some places that cannot be missed. Many visitors agree the city has something mystical that is difficult to describe and which varies according to the place, time of day and light.

Morning - Visit Douro Region 
Porto's best known images show the views over Porto riverside (the “Ribeira”) and Vila Nova de Gaia wharf. It is the arrival point of the unique Rabelo boats that transport the wine to the cellars where it ages but also the starting point of many cruises that go up the river Douro. The Douro Valley Region is classified as World Heritage by UNESCO and it is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, where Porto wines and Douro wines are produced.  


Photo: São Bento train station, Porto

Afternoon - Visit Porto downtown
Walk around the old and narrow streets, passing by the most interesting landmarks of the city including the Cathedral, the Clérigos Tower, ex-libris of the city, the exquisite book shop LELLO, the old grocery shops and boutiques, the colourful squares, and the new quarters of Cândido dos Reis street and Galeria de Paris street, where one can find and enjoy the best of the night life in Porto downtown with its trendy and design cafés and bars. 
Don’t miss the Café Guarany, Bolhão traditional market, Sta Catarina street, the best shopping area where you can find the historic Café Majestic, and São Bento train station, covered with painted glazed tiles. 
From the city centre, go down towards the River Douro and Ribeira old quarter. It is one of the most attractive districts of Porto, in which you get a feel for the ancient vernacular ambience.


Photo: View from Serra do Pilar, Porto by Rui Rebelo

Highlights

- Starting point: São Bento Train Station
In the old downtown, São Bento Train Station is the point of arrival by train and a key geographical reference from where you can start any tour of the historical center, classified World Heritage by UNESCO. In the train station, don’t miss the impressive main hall covered with glazed titles depicting historic scenes.

- Porto delicatessen
Try a francesinha (a sandwich with cured ham, sausage, and steak covered in molten cheese and a hot tomato and beer sauce), one of Porto’s specialities, as well as fresh fish, seafood, or some codfish cakes.

- Porto school of Architecture
Porto is also known for its school of architecture. One of the most important references is the Serralves contemporary art museum, a work of Álvaro Siza Vieira, one of the foremost architects of the Porto School and winner of the Pritzker Prize. 

- The best views
Porto has some belvederes that offer unique views over the city. Try the top of Luis I Bridge, crossing the river to Serra do Pilar Monastery, the historical Clérigos Tower, the precinct of the Cathedral and the gardens of Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace).  All of them are worth visiting.

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Lisbon is a modern capital with excellent accessibility. Start with the city centre area known as the Baixa. This is the heart of the city, where you will find Santa Justa elevator and the monumental square Praça do Comércio that opens on to the River Tagus. Climb to the Castle of São Jorge and stroll through Alfama to listen Fado. Take a tram ride to the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém. Don’t forget to try the delicious Pastel de Belém (custard tart).
Learn more: 10 things to see and do in Lisbon


Maat, Lisboa ©Stock Photos Art

Cascais and the Estoril Coast
(Half-hour drive)
Since the 19th century, Cascais and Estoril have been among the most cosmopolitan locations and of greatest interest to tourists. Take the coastal road from Lisbon to Cascais. It’s a pretty and pleasant trip with ample views of the river and ocean. You can visit the historic centre of Cascais, discover amazing restaurants or simply enjoy a lovely walk with friends and family.
Learn more: Visit Cascais and the Estoril Coast

Cascais © José Manuel

Sintra
(Half-hour drive, about 40 minutes by train, north of Lisbon )
Romantic and mysterious, the town of Sintra is truly unique. With its picturesque village, majestic palaces and fairy-tale castle, against a backdrop of mountains and lush forests, Sintra stands out as one of Portugal’s most enchanting places. And guess what? It’s only 30 mins away from Lisbon.
Learn more: Discovering Sintra


Castelo dos Mouros, Sintra ©José Manuel

Ericeira
(30 minutes drive, north of Lisbon)
The route following the sea north of Lisbon is one of the most popular tours of the Portuguese coast. Along the way there are some great surprises, like Ericeira, a fishing village with a lot of tradition linked to the sea, now recognised as one of the world’s surfing reserves.
Lern more: “Ericeira, Surfing Reserve”


Ericeira © Turismo de Lisboa

Óbidos
(One-hour drive, north of Lisbon)
The medieval town of Óbidos is a real time capsule. Recently recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature, Óbidos has become synonymous with romance and literature. History, crafts, great cafés and restaurants, churches and monuments, beautiful architecture, all just a few steps away.
Learn more: Visit Óbidos


Óbidos © Shutterstock

Peniche and Berlengas
(1h drive, north of Lisbon)
Peniche and the sea are inseparable. It is one of the largest traditional fishing ports in Portugal and a major Atlantic hub for maritime-tourist activities.
The Nature Reserve on the Island of Berlengas is a boat ride away. Its translucent waters are ideal for divers, who will find here a natural sanctuary for sea flora and fauna.
Learn more: Peniche


Ilha das Berlengas © José Manuel

Arrábida
(45 minutes drive, south of Lisbon)
Located next to the sea, between Setúbal and the fishing town of Sesimbra, Arrábida Natural Park has incomparable natural beauty, where the blue of the sea alternates with the white tones of the chalk cliffs and the depths of the green vegetation that covers the mountain range.
The action of the sea against the mountains has originated a line of beaches characterised by fine sand and transparent waters, that we might otherwise believe could only be found in the Mediterranean, such as Figueirinha, Galapos and the Portinho da Arrábida.
Learn more: Serra da Arrábida and the Sado Estuary


Galapinhos, Parque Natural da Arrábida © Câmara Municipal de Setúbal

Troia
(1h drive, south of Lisbon)
The Troia Peninsula is a must-see destination with its extensive, highly prized beaches. There is a range of activities that can be enjoyed in a single day or over a weekend in Troia: outdoor sports such as golf or cyclin on dedicated paths, nautical sports such as windsurfing and sailing, boating, dolphin watching and walks on the beach, all while enjoying views sure to be etched forever in the memories of all visitors.
Learn more: A weekend in Troia

© Shutterstock