Fado Performance in Lisbon
Fado is an indigenous Portuguese genre of music and dance that originated in Lisbon. Today, it is always performed solo, accompanied by guitar or viola, and only in designated venues (casa do fado) or restaurants. A great way to experience Portuguese culture and better understand the Portuguese is to go to a fado performance in Lisbon, for example in the Bairro Alto, Alfama, or Madragoa districts.
Chocolate Festival in Obidos
Sweet enthusiasts will adore Portugal even more when they experience the Festival of Chocolate. This annual event takes place in early March in the city of Obidos. Here, the finest chocolate masters not only showcase their creations but also impart the art of crafting this beloved sweet. The festival features chocolate sculptures, tastings of various chocolate varieties, and chocolate souvenirs for all to enjoy.
Experience life in Lisbon like a local by trading a modern bus for a century-old vintage streetcar. Yes, Lisbon has one! It's Route No. 28, often considered a symbol of the city. This charming yellow tram takes you on a leisurely journey from Campo Ourique to Martim Moniz Square. As you ascend the city's hills, you'll be serenaded by the rhythmic clatter of the wheels, and along the way, you can enjoy views of iconic landmarks like Saint-Georges Castle and the Santa Luzia observation deck.
Porto is a city that offers more than just the opportunity to taste its famous port wine. It's a city of great beauty, rich in cultural and historical monuments that transform a simple stroll into an enriching excursion. However, don't miss the chance to savor the world-renowned beverage that originated here.
Indulge in the finest port wine in the cellars of the Douro Valley, like Quinta da Pacheca. While it's open daily, visits are by appointment only.
If you're in Lisbon's Bairro Alto neighborhood, the Wine Institute awaits with a selection of 200 different wines to choose from.
Cape Roca, situated in Portugal, is not only renowned as the westernmost point of the European continent but also often described as the "edge of the world." The dramatic landscape features sheer cliffs, relentless ocean waves crashing onto the shore, and an awe-inspiring expanse of water, creating a truly unforgettable sight.
You can easily reach Cape Roca by taking a bus from Kaikasz, departing from the bus stop near the train station. The entire journey takes approximately half an hour and costs €3.
If you cherished fairy tales as a child with their magic castles, secret staircases, and enchanted books, then Livraria Lello bookshop in Porto, Portugal, will make all those dreams come true. While the floor-to-ceiling shelves of books tell one story, it's the enchanting fairytale ambiance that truly captivates. Before you even reach the books, you'll find yourself admiring the vibrant stained glass windows, intricate wooden panel carvings, Gothic ceilings, wall paintings, and winding staircases between the floors. It's a real-life castle fit for a fairy tale princess!
Portugal is renowned for its pristine beaches with crystal-clear azure waters, and the Algarve region stands out as a favorite destination for beach lovers. Even during the hottest summer months, temperatures here rarely exceed +30 degrees Celsius, making it a year-round vacation spot. Moreover, the diversity of beaches caters to a wide range of preferences: Praia da Senhora da Rocha boasts a Blue Flag status, Praia de Albandeira and Praia do Paraíso offer peace and seclusion, while the stunning Praia da Marinha and Praia de Benagil, with their unforgettable caves, are simply paradisiacal!
Indulging in Portugal goes beyond aesthetics; it's also a culinary delight. In this case, we're not referring to national cuisine (though it's delightful), but rather one of its culinary masterpieces - the Belém pastry.
This traditional puff pastry filled with custard is a favorite of all Portuguese, and you can find it almost everywhere. However, if you want to savor the authentic taste, head to the Jerónimos Monastery. There, in a café near the monastery walls, you can enjoy this Portuguese dessert, perfectly complemented by a strong espresso. It's rumored that the true Pastéis de Belém can only be found here.
The capital of Portugal is undoubtedly a beautiful and colorful city. However, it has a hidden gem that not all tourists are aware of - Lisbon's sidewalks. What makes them special, you might wonder? Well, it's the fact that they are paved with multicolored tiles in various hues, crafted from limestone, granite, basalt, and sandstone. The alternating dark, white, gray, and yellow tiles form intricate patterns, creating real artworks beneath your feet. Some are so stunning that it almost feels like a shame to walk on them.
Did you know that Portuguese wineries are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? No? Then rectify that oversight and get to know the wine culture of this sunny country!
You'll love visiting wineries on the island of Madeira - home of its namesake - or enjoying a leisurely tasting of madera, vino verde, and sweet house wine on the terrace of a local restaurant.
