On Thursday afternoon, a man was shot by PSP police officers after attempting to stab a law enforcement officer and threatening several passengers of the Lisbon Metro with a large knife.
The incident took place at Bela Vista station, and the suspect’s escape into the tunnel led to the suspension of Red Line services between 6:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
According to a statement released by PSP, officers were alerted to the incident at 6:07 p.m. Upon the police’s arrival, the 54-year-old man fled into the Bela Vista metro station.
“As he was intercepted, the individual maintained his aggressive and uncooperative behavior, even inflicting a stab wound on one of the officers, cutting his uniform in the abdominal area,” explained the authorities.
The police chased him down the subway line and then fired shots at the suspect, “hitting him in both legs.”
Both the apprehended individual, who was later transferred to a hospital, and one of the involved police officers received medical treatment and are doing well.
The authorities are investigating to determine the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s actions.
If you’re traveling to or from Portugal between May 20 and June 26, you might want to read on. Several strike periods start from May 20th at Lisbon, Porto, Faro, and Madeira airports.
At Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport, strikes will take place between 5 am and 10 am from May 20 to 22, May 27 to 29, June 3 to 5, June 10 to 12, June 17 to 19, and June 24 to 26.
At other airports and border posts, including maritime ports, the strike will occur on May 22 and 29, as well as June 5, 12, 19, and 26.
The uncertainty surrounding the future of inspectors from the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) is the main reason behind the strike. This comes after the government approved a decree-law on April 6, establishing the transitional regime for SEF workers as part of a restructuring process.
If you have a flight on one of these days, make sure to contact the airline and check the status of your flight. More information is expected in the next few days.
Setubal is a beautiful coastal city located just a short drive south of Lisbon. With its stunning beaches and unique marine life, Setubal has become a popular destination for tourists. Whether you’re interested in unforgettable experiences or simply soaking up the sun on the beach, Setubal has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at the 5 best things to do in Setubal, portugal.
1. Arrabida Natural Park
Arrabida Natural Park is a stunning protected area located on the coast of Portugal. The park covers an area of approximately 10,800 hectares and is home to an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna. The rugged mountain range of Arrabida is the park’s most notable feature, with its peaks reaching heights of up to 500 meters.
The Arrabida Natural Park is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The park boasts a network of trails that provide visitors with access to some of its most stunning vistas, such as the panoramic view of the Sado estuary and the Troia Peninsula from the top of the Arrabida ridge.
The park is also an important site for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area. The Arrabida Natural Park is an ideal location for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, and it is easy to see why it is considered one of the most beautiful natural parks in Portugal.
Photo by Eduardo Goody (Unsplash)
2. Setubal Historic Center
The historic center of Setubal is a charming location that is known for its long history, dating back to the Roman era. The center of Setubal is a vibrant mix of narrow streets and squares, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks.
The city’s main square, Praça do Bocage, is named after the famous Portuguese poet Manuel Maria Barbosa du Bocage, and it is the heart of the city’s social life.
The city’s old town is also home to various historic landmarks, such as the Monastery of Jesus, which is a 15th-century Gothic-style church with a stunning interior. The city’s castle, Castelo de Sao Filipe, is another must-see, offering panoramic views of the city.
3. Explore the Setubal beaches
Setubal has some amazing beaches that are often forgotten. Each beach has its own unique charm and features, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.
Praia de Galapinhos is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, with crystal-clear waters and white sand. Praia da Figueirinha is another popular beach, perfect for swimming and water sports, with restaurants and cafes nearby.
For a quieter and more secluded experience, Praia dos Coelhos is a great option, nestled in a cove with clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
This dolphin watching tour near Setubal is one of our favorite experiences. You will get to go on a thrilling boat ride, where you will see these amazing creatures up close, swimming and playing in the wild.
You’ll also have the opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes of Sesimbra, which is located in the Serra da Arrabida Natural Park. The boat is equipped with everything you need to ensure a comfortable and safe experience, with expert guides who will provide you with information about the dolphins and the surrounding area.
The Dolphin Watch Tour in Sesimbra is a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, come and join us on this exciting adventure and discover the magic of the ocean and its incredible creatures!
This tour takes you off the beaten path to explore some of the most secluded and stunning beaches in the region, as well as hidden caves in Arrabida. You’ll be amazed by the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes that you’ll encounter along the way.
This is the perfect for anyone looking for an adventure and a chance to escape the crowds. You’ll explore hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by boat, making it an exclusive and unforgettable experience.
The tour is led by expert guides who will share with you their knowledge of the area’s history and ecology, giving you a deeper understanding of this stunning region.
The best way to understand a culture is to discover its cuisine. Portuguese cuisine has a long history originating from the 15th century, when Portugal was a significant maritime power, and has been shaped by various cultures such as Moors, Romans, Celts, and Phoenicians.
From bacalhau and pastel do nata to caldo verde, Portuguese food is known for its unique flavors that will make a mark on anyone that tries them. To make the most out of Portugal’s food, take a look at the 7 best food experiences in Portugal.
If you’re looking for a Porto tour to please your taste buds, this food and wine tour is a must-try experience. This tour takes you on a gastronomic journey through Porto’s famous food and wine culture, with an expert guide leading the way. This tour is perfect for foodies who want to experience the authentic flavors of Porto.
You’ll visit various hidden gems and traditional taverns to taste some of the city’s most delicious cuisine, from seafood and cured meats to cheeses and pastries. One of the highlights of the tour is a stop at a local port wine cellar, where you’ll learn about the history of port wine and sample some of the finest vintages.
This Lisbon tour is one of our favorite ways to discover the vibrant culinary scene of Lisbon. This tour takes you on a culinary adventure through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, where you’ll discover hidden gems and taste some of the city’s most delicious food and drink.
Your expert guide will take you to local markets, bakeries, and taverns, where you’ll savor authentic Portuguese cuisine, including seafood, cheeses, cured meats, and pastries. You’ll also stop at a port tavern, where you’ll sample some of Lisbon’s finest port wines and learn about their history and production.
For a personalized culinary experience, we recommend this private Lisbon food tour. This private tour allows you to discover the city’s culinary secrets at your own pace. The best part is that the guide will tailor the experience to your preferences, and you get to help put the tour together.
You’ll get to visit Lisbon’s top foodie neighborhoods and sample a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, from fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses to famous pastries like pastel de nata. You will also get to meet and interact with local food artisans, who will share their knowledge and passion for their craft.
If you’re interested in learning how to cook authentic Portuguese cuisine, this Portuguese cooking class is a fantastic way to dive into the world of traditional cooking. This hands-on cooking class takes place in a charming kitchen, where you’ll learn from a professional chef who will guide you through the process of preparing a three-course meal.
Using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, you’ll learn the techniques and secrets of traditional Portuguese cooking, including the famous Bacalhau dish, and other regional specialties. After the cooking class, you’ll get to sit down and enjoy the meal you prepared, along with delicious wines.
If you’re a Portuguese custard tart lover, thisPastel de Nata baking class is for you! You’ll learn from a professional pastry chef how to make the perfect pastel de nata from scratch, using traditional techniques and ingredients.
As you work, your chef instructor will share fascinating insights into the history of this beloved pastry and its cultural significance in Portugal. And at the end, you’ll get to taste your creations fresh out of the oven, along with a refreshing glass of Portuguese wine.
The Algarve is a region that must not be overlooked when it comes to food and wine. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this Algarve food and wine tour will take you on a journey through the region’s vineyards and wineries.
With breathtaking views of the countryside, you’ll have the chance to taste a variety of wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds, all produced locally and bursting with flavor. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample other local delicacies, such as cheeses, cured meats, and olives.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is coming to Portugal on Thursday to meet with Prime Minister António Costa. A press release by NATO states that Stoltenberg and Costa will be giving a joint press conference between 17:45 -18.00 (CEST).
No specific details were given about the subject of the meeting, but the press is naturally arguing that the Ukraine war will be discussed. The press conference will be streamed live on the NATO website.
The last time Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg came to Portugal was in October of 2021 when Lisbon welcomed the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
Prime Minister António Costa is currently in Iceland until Wednesday when he will meet with Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir and participate in the Fourth Council of Europe Summit.
A city full of vibrant culture, history, and delicious cuisine, Lisbon is the perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking to explore its historic landmarks or stroll through charming neighborhoods, Lisbon has something for everyone.
With only 48 hours in the city, it can be challenging to fit everything in but it’s more than doable with the right itinerary. Take a look at our Lisbon weekend itinerary for your 48 hours in Lisbon with an activity schedule, as well as the best hotels and best restaurants.
Lisbon Day 1 Itinerary
Morning
Start your day with a delicious Portuguese breakfast at Pastelaria Versailles, a historic bakery located in the city center. Try their famous pastel de nata, a traditional egg custard tart, and pair it with a strong espresso to get your day off to a good start.
After breakfast, head to the Alfama district, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, and get lost in its maze of narrow streets and alleyways. This is a great way to discover the local culture and architecture.
Don’t forget to stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River.
Alfama. Photo by Liam McKay (Unsplash)
Afternoon
For lunch, we recommend trying some of the city’s best seafood at Cervejaria Ramiro. This popular restaurant has been serving delicious seafood dishes since 1956 and is a must-visit for any food lover.
After lunch, head to Belem, a neighborhood located west of the city center. Here you’ll find the iconic Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Jeronimos Monastery, another must-see landmark in Lisbon. Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the Tagus River.
Torre de Belem. Photo by Alex Paganelli (Unsplash)
Before dinner, enjoy a private electric tuk-tuk ride that allows you to learn all about Lisbon’s history and culture, while aboard an eco-friendly vehicle.
The tour stops at all the major attractions, such as Alfama and Mouraria, the historic neighborhoods, as well as Praça do Comércio and Belem. The tuk-tuk also stops at the best Lisbon viewpoints for photo ops of the city.
Praca do Comercio. Photo by João Reguengos (Unsplash)
Evening
For dinner, head to Time Out Market, a popular food hall that offers a variety of local and international cuisine. This is a great place to try different dishes and soak up the lively atmosphere. You will find different delicious restaurants there, including Sea Me, Café de Sāo Bento, and Asian Lab.
After dinner, head to the Bairro Alto district, one of Lisbon’s liveliest neighborhoods, and enjoy some drinks at one of the many bars and clubs in the area.
Barro Alto. Photo by Alano Oliveira lanomds (Unsplash)
Lisbon Day 2 Itinerary
Morning
Start the day with breakfast at Pastelaria Alfacinha where you get to try some local pastries. After breakfast, head to Castelo de São Jorge, an 11th century medieval castle that overlooks the historical center of Lisbon.
The castle was most recently restored in 1938 by the dictatorship of Salazar as part of a commemoration of Portuguese patriotism and independence.
After visiting the castle, take the iconic 28 tram from Miradouro da Graça that goes through Praca do Comercio and other locations. This tram is a local transportation method, but one that is almost touristic. Hop off in Chiado.
Tram 28. Photo by Archana Reddy (Unsplash)
Afternoon
Chiado is well known for being home to the best stores and luxurious cafes located in the heart of the city. The 1700s Bertrand book store is located here, as well as the emblematic cafe A Brasileira. Take a stroll along Rua Garrett and enjoy the lively atmosphere, walking toward Praça do Comércio, the largest square in Lisbon.
Chiado. Photo by Joel Filipe (Unsplash)
There are multiple restaurants here for lunch. We recommend Martinho da Arcada, a delicious Portuguese restaurant dating back to 1782.
After lunch, head back towards Elevador de Santa Justa, an elevator completed in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, an architecture student of the man who built the Eiffel Tower.
45 meters tall, the lift has a similar design to the Eiffel Tower and was built to connect the lower streets of Baixa to Carmo Square for locals to have an easier passage. You can ride the elevator to enjoy the view of the Baixa Pombalina.
Santa Justa Lift. Photo by Lucie Capkova (Unsplash)
Lastly, walk around Rossio Square, also known as Praça Dom Pedro IV. This is a lively square where you can sit, relax, and people-watch.
The square includes two baroque fountains, and in the center is a monument measuring 27 meters in height. On the north side of the square is the Dona Maria II National Theater, a building from the 1840s.
Evening
You’re not fully experiencing Lisbon without a fado dinner out. Fado is a traditional music style that became known in the old neighborhoods of Lisbon such as Alfama. This style of music was sung in taverns, beginning in the 19th century and is now a UNESCO-listed musical genre.
This experience offers an intimate dinner and live Fado music performance, so you can savor the delicious flavors of authentic Portuguese cuisine while enjoying the beautiful melodies of traditional music.
As part of this evening tour, you’ll also get to see some of Lisbon’s illuminated landmarks by night, including the National Pantheon and Lisbon Cathedral. With hotel pick-up, dinner, and a guided city tour included, this small-group tour is tailored to provide you with a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel: Awarded the Best Luxury Green Hotel in 2019, Inspira Liberdade provides a relaxing Feng-Shui vibe for its guests. The hotel has a SPA, fitness room, bar, and a restaurant with Portuguese food called Pen Brasserie Mediterrânica.
Selena Secret Garden: The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room. In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado.
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. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha.
Hotel Lisbon Plaza:This 4-star family-owned hotel is decorated in the style of Portuguese homes. With 24-hour room service, a terrace, and a gym this small hotel has been in the same family since the 1950s.
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.
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.
Jupiter Lisboa: This 4-star hotel is located near Campo Pequeno. Although it is not in the center of the city, you can get to Baixa-Chiado in 15 minutes through transportation. Jupiter has everything you need for a luxurious vacation at an affordable price.
In late January 2023, Guinness World Records gave Bobi the title of oldest dog in the world, who lives in Leiria, Portugal. Bobi celebrated his 31st birthday on May 11, 2023, making him not just the oldest dog living, but the oldest dog ever.
Bobi lives in Conqueiros, Leiria, with the Costa family. He is a Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed from Alentejo used as a guard dog for cattle herding. These dogs have an average life expectancy of 12/14 years, but Bobi has exceeded this average for over two decades.
Credit: Guinness World Records
Bobi’s owner Leonel believes that the secret to his dog’s long life is his freedom, as he is never tied to a chain, as well as the healthy meals he receives.
Bobi only eats human food without seasoning and drinks about 1 liter of water a day. He is also very social and loves spending time with other animals, like cats.
Bobi’s owner told Guinness World Records he never thought of “registering Bobi to break the record because fortunately, all our animals have always lasted for many years”.
Leonel said that Bobi’s mother, Gira, lived to the age of 18, and another one of their dogs, Chicote, lived to be 22.
Bobi took Bluey’s 100-year record as the oldest dog ever, an Australian dog that lived between 1910 and 1939, dying at 29 years old and five months.
Guimaraes is a charming city located in the northwestern part of Portugal, known for its rich cultural heritage and architecture Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Guimaraes has a variety of accommodation options to choose from.
Le’ts take a look at the 5 best hotels in Guimaraes for your next stay. From historic properties to modern boutique hotels, these accommodations are sure to provide you with an unforgettable stay in Guimaraes.
A 4-star hotel, the Hotel da Oliveira is located in the historical city center of Guimaraes, only 150 meters away from the castle. This place offers a restaurant with a varied menu of Portuguese and international cuisine, as well as a library and shared lounge for guests to enjoy. The rooms are decorated with themes relating to Guimaraes historical figures and have a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, mini bar, and for the lucky ones, even a balcony. Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast in the hotel or in the room for some breakfast in bed.
Ana’s Houses is a highly-rated aparthotel that has various houses available to rent within a traditional building in the historical center of Guimares, 200 meters from the castle. This establishment has an outdoor terrace with a seating area for guests to relax. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms, a large TV, and a kitchen. Ana’s Houses come in two and three-bedroom homes, the largest hosting u to six people.
A 4-star hotel, Hotel de Guimaraes is located in the heart of Guimaraes and offers guests an elegant atmosphere. This hotel has a spacious indoor pool, as well a spa with a sauna and massage rooms. The restaurant D. Maria offers panoramic views of the city and serves seasonal Mediterranean cuisine. The Piano Bar features an extensive wine list and is a great spot for an afternoon drink. The rooms at Hotel de Guimaraes feature cable TV, contemporary furnishings, and a minibar.
Less than 1 kilometer from Guimares castle, Casa do Juncal is located in the heart of Guimares in an 18th-century manor house. Combining history with modernity and elegance, Casa do Juncal has a large outdoor garden with a comfortable seating area. While this place does not feature a spa, guests can book a massage service upon request. The suites feature air-conditioned suites, a flat-screen TV, as well as king-sized beds with 300-count thread streets for a luxurious night’s sleep.
Looking for the celebrity treatment? Pousada Mosteiro de Guimaraes is located in a 12th-century Augustin Convent, within walking distance of the city center. Overlooking the city, this pousada offers a large outdoor pool and stunning landscaped gardens for a relaxing stroll. The rooms are equipped with modern furniture, air conditioning, cable TV, and a private bathroom.
São Miguel, the largest island of the Azores archipelago, is a beautiful place to call home. A place that increasingly more expats are looking to move to. With its stunning natural landscapes and unique culture, São Miguel offers a range of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded lifestyle or a cosmopolitan environment, there’s a neighborhood on the island for everyone. Let’s take a look at the 5 best neighborhoods to live in São Miguel so that you find the right home for you.
1. Ponta Delgada
Most people who move to São Miguel make Ponta Delgada their home, the island’s capital. Ponta Delgada is the largest city on the island, offering the most amenities you need for daily life while still being close to nature.
There are many housing options in Ponta Delgada, including apartments, houses, and villas. The cost of living in Ponta Delgada is generally lower than in larger European cities. However, don’t expect the low Azorean prices you find on other islands when it comes to rent.
The city has a good public transportation system, including buses and taxis. It is also very walkable and bike-friendly, with many dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian areas. If you have kids, there are several public and private schools in Ponta Delgada offering education in Portuguese and English.
You will find some of the best cuisines in the Azores in Ponta Delgada, known for its fresh seafood, local cheeses, and wines. The city is also incredibly safe with low crime rates.
Ponta Delgada, Azores. Photo by Nuno França (Unsplash)
2. Lagoa
A small town located on the south coast of São Miguel, Lagoa offers a peaceful lifestyle while still being well-connected to other island parts by transportation. The cost of living in Lagoa is lower than in Ponta Delgada, and you will be living a more local experience.
This area offers a great quality of life, with a balance of natural beauty and modern amenities. The town is surrounded by incredible landscapes, including a beautiful lagoon and a sandy beach. Although it’s less expensive, like Ponta Delgada, this area is close to quality schools and hospitals, as well as delicious restaurants and cafes.
3. Ribeira Grande
Located on the north coast of São Miguel, Ribeira Grande is the second-largest municipality on the island. Home to several historical landmarks, such as the 18th-century Church of Nossa Senhora da Estrela, this place offers a rich cultural experience.
You are also just a few steps away from the iconic Lagoa do Fogo, several beautiful beaches, and the Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões. There are plenty of quaint local restaurants, bars, and even a weekly farmers market with high-quality produce. Apartments are quite affordable in the area, and you are well-connected to other parts of the island through transportation.
Photo by António Cunha (Unsplash)
4. Furnas
If you’re looking for a more remote and secluded lifestyle, Furnas might be your next home. Located on the eastern part of São Miguel, Furnas is known for its thermal pools and natural geothermal hot springs. You’ll be living in your very own outdoor spa!
Furnas is also home to the beautiful Terra Nostra Garden and several hiking trails, making it perfect for nature lovers.
Rent is affordable in this area and there is an easy access to schools. However, with its remoteness comes some challenges. You will need to have a vehicle if you want to live here and get to other parts of the island, as public transport is scarce.
There’s also only a small health care center offering basic care. For more specialized health care, you will need to travel to Ponta Delgada.
5. Capelas
A charming village located on the northern coast of the island, Capelas offers an authentic experience of Azorean culture close to nature. The village is surrounded by lush green countryside, and the climate is temperate, with mild winters and warm summers, unlike other parts of the island.
Capelas features a few small grocery stores, a pharmacy, and a handful of cafes and restaurants. However, having a car to drive to the nearby city of Ponta Delgada is helpful when you need to access amenities such as hospitals.
This village also offers a rich cultural experience, with the Feast of the Holy Spirit taking place in May or June each year. The Sete Cidades lake is less than 30 minutes away and there are also several hiking trails and places to swim nearby.
A proposal for the Tobacco Law will be discussed on Thursday in the Council of Ministers, which will possibly lead to stricter rules for smokers in Portugal. The government’s proposal seeks to promote the population’s health and protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.
The rules include restricting the purchase of tobacco, as well as the areas where smoking is allowed.
Portugal is still one of the most smoking countries in Western Europe. There are an estimated 1.5 million smokers in Portugal, of whom about 1.2 million smoke daily.
Whether you’re a smoker or concerned with Portuguese public health, let’s look at the possible changes to the Portuguese Tobacco Law if the proposal is successful.
No more cigarette machines in certain places
The proposal includes a measure to prohibit automatic cigarette machines in certain places by 2025. People won’t be able to purchase tobacco through machines in places such as restaurants, bars, show locations, casinos, fairs, exhibitions, game rooms, and gas stations.
No smoking on covered terraces
The law proposal could also ban smoking on any sort of covered terrace, even if the coverage is not complete. Smoking in front of doors or windows of restaurants, bars, and cafes will also be prohibited.
Outdoor smoking restrictions in front of public buildings
Smoking outdoors in front of public buildings such as schools, universities, and hospitals will also be prohibited. This also includes public transport stations and sports venues.
Flavored heated tobacco prohibited
This proposal makes it so that heated tobacco is treated the same as conventional tobacco. In Portugal, many people have started smoking heated tobacco from the brand IQOS. Starting October 2023, brands will not be able to sell flavored, heated tobacco
Moreover, the government has said that the packaging of heated tobacco must include health warning texts and photography, like conventional tobacco.
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