Dazzling coastlines, vibrant cities and rich history complete with charming fishing villages and medieval castles, and rugged coastlines; Portugal is a must visit destination. Nestled on the west coast of Europe, tucked between the panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and bordering Spain, Portugal and is one of the most dynamic and magical countries travellers can visit on a European trip.

Reasons to Visit this Vibrant Destination

Portugal is a country renowned for its port, pastries (try the pastel de nata!), pork dishes, bacalao (salted cod dishes), kind locals, picturesque beaches, poetic old towns, and rugged coastlines. It's a truly unique destination that will not disappoint.


Warm and Welcoming Locals

Portuguese people are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people I have ever met. It’s no wonder why they have been ranked the most welcoming country out of 188 countries worldwide. The locals' demeanour is polite, welcoming, down to earth, and eager to help. Even if you don't speak the language, the locals will try their best to communicate with you and make you feel at home.

Affordable Travel

Portugal is one of the most affordable European destinations, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers, or for those who want affordable luxury. You can find free walking tours of the major cities (don’t forget to tip!), low-priced meals in restaurants, and free admission to local museums on Sundays. The Portuguese take tourism seriously, so you can be sure to find plenty of affordable experiences to enjoy.


Beautiful Weather Year-round

Portugal has excellent weather from early April through summer. The locals love being outside and invite tourists to do the same. Even during the winter months, the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.


Unique Cuisine

If there’s one thing Portuguese do well, it’s comfort food. You can find robust meat dishes in the north, unique seafood dishes in the south, and the original pastel de nata in Belem, just outside of Lisbon. Food is a central part of Portuguese culture, with big portions and affordable prices. Make sure you try Bacalhau at least once while you visit Portugal. Bacalhau is an important part of Portuguese culture, and it is said that there are more than 365 ways to cook it - one for each day of the year. The process of salting and drying the fish was developed as a way to preserve it for long periods of time, allowing sailors to take it on long voyages. My personal favourite, and still one of my top 10 meals to this day, is Bacalhau com Natas, or Salt Cod with Cream. It’s a delicious combination of flaky bacalhau served in a mixture of cream, potatoes, and onion, then topped with cheese and baked in the oven. I enjoyed this dish in a quaint restaurant I found up a side street, with a bottle of vino verde, while being serenaded by a local singing Fado and playing acoustic guitar. An experience I’ll cherish forever.


Fado

A guitar, a voice and a lot of feeling. A recognised symbol of Portugal, Fado, is not just Portuguese music, it’s a way of life. When one sings Fado, they sing the feeling, the heartbreak, the longing for someone who left, the daily life and the triumphs. When listening to Fado, you don’t simply hear the music, you feel the story that’s being told, even if you do not know the language. Simply put, Fado touches your heart. Much like the windy streets of old town Lisbon, Fado is poetic, and leaves a lasting impression.

Old Town Lisbon and Alfama

Lisbon is arguably Western Europe's most underrated capital city. This was my experience as well when I visited back in 2013. I had greatly underestimated how much I would fall in love with the Lisbon, and to this day I often find myself thinking “It’s amazing, but it’s not Portugal” when I visit other European cities. Lisbon is home to a mix Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and modern styles architecture, making it a unique and fascinating place to explore. Hop on, and off, the iconic yellow tram and explore a fortified castle, a bustling waterfront, or a colorful maze of cobblestone streets. There was a saying that the locals had when I was there “You haven’t truly visited Lisbon, until you got lost in its streets.” Old town was constructed as a maze to add an additional layer of protection against invaders trying to find their way to the castle at the center!


An area that has forever stolen a piece of my heart is Alfama, one of Europe’s oldest neighborhoods. Alfama district is an unforgettable experience of getting lost in a labyrinthine of narrow streets, winding staircases, hidden gems, and intriguing alleys. It’s one of the most interesting neighborhood designs I’ve ever seen. Exploring Alfama is a must, for any visit to Lisbon.

Finally, Lisbon is a city with a vibrant nightlife. Known for its Fado music, played in small bars and restaurants, you can enjoy will sipping wine, or dancing, into the night.

Whether you prefer to travel independently, on a guided tour, or on a mediterranean cruise, Lisbon has something for everyone and should be considered for your next European destination.



To learn more about vacationing in Lisbon, please reach out to Vanessa with Four Stories Travel at vanessa@fourstoriestravel.com