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Lisbon on a Rainy Day: 7 Things to Do in Lisbon

Lara Silva
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Lisbon on a Rainy Day: 7 Things to Do in Lisbon

The Portuguese capital, one of the oldest cities in western Europe, has so much to offer due to its rich culture, history, and cuisine. However, while Portugal is mostly known for its good weather, rainy days are common in winter in Lisbon.

Luckily, there are a wide range of activities to enjoy in Lisbon on a rainy day without having to sacrifice your vacation. Let’s take a look at 7 things to do in Lisbon on a rainy day.

Travel Guide to Lisbon

1. Enjoy some Portuguese wine

Portuguese wine is some of the best in the world! Luckily, Lisbon has wine bars at every corner where you can shelter from the rain. These are usually affordably priced and allow you can try out unique flavors, from port wine to red wine.

We recommend booking this 3-hour tasting, where you’ll get to try Portuguese pastries, cheese, and wines from the Alentejo.

For a premium experience, book this tasting, where you’ll get to taste five different artisanal kinds of cheese, sausages, and ham, as well as five Portuguese wines.

For a super affordable option, visit the Wines of Portugal Tasting Room in Terreiro do Paço. This is a large modern tasting room with shared tables and wine starting at €1.

Photo by Kelsey Knight (Unsplash)

Book a wine tasting in Lisbon

2. Explore the Jeronimos Monastery

The Jeronimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site, built in the 16th century to celebrate Vasco da Gama’s return from sea.

Built in Gothic Manueline style, the astonishing monastery features Vasco da Gama’s tomb inside the monastery. In 1833, the monastery was secularised and was given to a charity called Real Casa Pia de Lisboa. 

You can visit the church inside for free, but the monastery’s two-story cloister costs €10 to visit, or you can pay to skip the line.

After your visit to the monastery, don’t miss the iconic Pasteis de Belem, a 2-minute walk away, where the traditional Portuguese custard tart was first invented, known as the “Pastel de Nata.”

The recipe from this place is a secret. You´ll have to wait in line, but it is so worth it and will warm you up from the cold. 

Jeronimos Monastery. Photo by Amanda Yeung (Unsplash)

3. Tuk tuk tour of Lisbon

A rainy day doesn’t mean you necessarily need to stay inside. A tuk tuk tour is a way to discover the city while staying sheltered from the rain. If you have kids, it’s a fun activity for rainy days that doesn’t require boring them in museums. 

 Book this private electric tuk tuk tour of Lisbon with a local guide. This tour is an eco-friendly way to visit the best sights in the city.

The tour stops at all the major attractions, such as Alfama and Mouraria, the historic neighborhoods, as well as Praca do Comercio and Belem. The tuk tuk also stops at the best Lisbon viewpoints for photo ops of the city. 

Book Private Electric Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon  

4. Spot some sea life

Why not explore some sea life indoors? The Lisbon aquarium in Parque das Nacoes is one of the largest in Europe! With over 8,000 sea creatures and incredibly popular swimming otters, this is the perfect activity for the whole family. 

Every year, over 1 million people visit the aquarium. The aquarium is divided into 4 separate bodies of water, representing the North Atlantic, Antarctic, Temperate Pacific, and Tropical Indian Ocean.

Buy your ticket here to skip the line at the entrance and enjoy free cancellation.

5. Ride the tram 28

Tram 28 is like an affordable Lisbon tour that will still shelter you from the rain. However, it has more of a local and authentic feel because it’s not an official tour but rather a regular tram route. 

It’s a special one, however. This tram line connects Martim Moniz with Campo do Ourique. The tram stops in popular tourist districts such as Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and grace. In a traditional yellow tram, you will ride a scenic route through Lisbon’s narrow and steep streets, the perfect fall morning in Lisbon.

We recommend riding the train early in the morning to avoid crowds. Make sure to beware of pickpocketers!

Tram 28. Photo by Portuguese Gravity (Unsplash)

6. Visit inside Sao Jorge castle

A medieval castle overlooking the historical center of Lisboa, Sao Jorge Castle is open to visitors. Located in Santa Maria Maior, this castle has a unique history.

A part of the castle was built in the fifth century by the Visigoths which was made larger by the Moors in the eleventh century. It was then officially made into the Royal Palace in the twelfth century during the reign of Afonso I of Portugal.

Then, during the dictatorship of Salazar, the palace was restored to what it looks like now. You can visit the castle, the ruins of the royal palace, the gardens, and a terraced square with panoramic views of the city. 

Especially on a rainy day, we recommend paying a little extra to skip the line.

7. Enjoy a traditional fado show

What better way to enjoy the coziness of a rainy day than with a traditional fado show in Lisbon? In Lisbon Fado Houses, you can listen to live music performances of fado classics by Amália Rodrigues and others.

However, keep in mind that these authentic “Casas de Fado” are not always cheap. The price does usually cover a delicious meal and once-in-a-lifetime entertainment.

The best place to go to enjoy fado is in the Alfama district, a neighborhood known as the home of fado, as well as for its steep hills.

There are many great options, including Fado in Chiado, Clube de Fado, and Parreirinha de Alfama. Inside tip – you can always also ask the locals where to go. 

Book Fado ticket here to skip the line

6 Best Things to Do in Alentejo

Lara Silva
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6 Best Things to Do in Alentejo

There’s so much to be said about the Alentejo. This region, located in center-southern Portugal, covers over 31,600km2 of land, the largest in the whole country.

Between Lisbon and the Algarve, the Alentejo provides those visiting it with a diverse experience.

From vast fields with olive groves and cork trees to hilltop villages with ancient castles and a stunning coastline of beaches, the Alentejo has so much to offer. Let’s take a look at the 6 best things to do in Alentejo for your next trip to the region.

Guide to the Alentejo

1. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Evora

You cannot go to Alentejo without going to Evora, the capital of the region. The landmarks in the Historic Center of Evora were primarily built in the 15th century, while the famous Roman Temple was constructed around the first century A.D.

Evora’s history is thus incredibly rich. The city has been a political and social center boasting a two million-year history.

The Historic Center of Evora was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its significant historical events, from the 16th century as a time of religious influence and urban planning to the concentric growth of the town in the 17th century.

Photo by Frank Nürnberger (Unsplash)

Book Evora Private Day Trip

2. Visit the Beja Castle

Sitting on a 900 feet hill, Beja is a unique city that overviews the plans of the Baixo Alentejo. Beja has an incredibly rich cultural heritage and history, which can be seen in its architecture. If you’re in this area, we recommend visiting the Beja castle!

A medieval castle, Beja castle was built somewhere between the beginning of the third century and the end of the fourth century. A National Monument, the castle is open to visitors every day, and at an affordable ticket price, this is a must-see. 

For the best view head to the Torre de Menagem, a tower made of marble 40 meters tall. Featuring Gothic and Manueline styles, Beja Castle is highly historically significant, particularly for its role in the Reconquista from the Moors in 1159.

Photo by Francisco Antunes (Flickr)

3. Swim on some of the best beaches in Portugal

Towards the South, the Alentejo features some of the best beaches in Portugal. Instead of the crowded beaches of the Algarve and Lisbon, the Alentejo features quieter and more secluded beaches known to locals. 

One of our favorite beaches in the Alentejo is Praia do Almograve, located in the quaint village of Almograve. A long golden sand beach along the Sudoeste Alentejano and Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Almograve features the Sardao Cape to the South, offering views of the coastline and inaccessible and natural beaches.

The beach is closed off in the extremities by cliffs, making it a great spot for windy days. After a relaxing morning on the beach, walk a few minutes to the Almograve village where there are plenty of traditional Portuguese restaurants serving affordable lunches.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

Another great beach in the Alentejo is Praia da Franquia in Vila Nova de Milfontes. Praia da Franquia is one of the most sheltered beaches in the area, making it popular for canoeing, paddling, and windsurfing. This small beach has a long tradition of being a popular one in the area, being featured in literature since the 19th century.

One of the best beaches for families with children, as well as water sports lovers, Praia da Franquia is rarely full of tourists and offers a relaxing beach day without too much commotion. Its located close to the town, as well as features several facilities such as a lifeguard, bathrooms, and cafes.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

4. Discover the cuisine of Alentejo

Alentejo food is extremely unique, primarily based on heavy meats and traditional wheat bread baked in the region. You will find a whole range of flavors from local products, including cheeses and olive oil. 

A traditional dish is the Alentejo bread stews (Açorda) which are made from hard Alentejo bread, garlic, eggs, and olive oil, providing a large comfort food.

Açorda à Alentejana. Photo by Filipe Fortes (Flickr)

Black Iberian pork dishes are also popular, produced from local pigs, including secretos de porco perto and migas de porco preto. Another dish to try is the Alentejo lamb stew, a tasty comfort dish. 

But don’t forget the desserts and sweets! Try the queijada de Evora, pasteis de toucinho, and more. 

Top Restaurant Picks in the Alentejo

  • Herdade do Esporao Restaurant
  • Campo do Caroco
  • Taberna Tipica Quarta-Feira
  • Taberna do Adro
  • Vinho e Noz

5. Head to Marvao and Castelo de Vide

Located in northern Alentejo, Marvao and Castelo de Vide are towns not to miss, two scenic settlements in Alentejo close to each other.

Marvao was included in New York Times’ 100 Places to See before You Die! The city has a medieval castle with one of the world’s best views, but also a unique Gothic Convento de Nossa Senhora da Estrela convent and the Santa Maria Church.

Note that Marvao is home to three great art events, an annual international festival of classical music taking place in July-August, Periferias international film festival, unfolding in August each year, and Al-Mossassa, a tribute to the town’s Moorish past.

Along with Marvo,  Castelo de Vide has a similar picturesque feel with a medieval castle just like Marvao, but has some unique sites such as its eye-pleasing Jewish Quarter, with its splendid museum. 

Marvao Castle. Photo by Alvaro Rodriguez (Flickr)

6. Explore Vila Nova de Mil Fontes

Located in Odemira, Vila Nova de Mil Fontes lies at the mouth of the Mira Riva and is surrounded by the Southwest Alentejo and the Vicentine Coast Natural Park. The town has some of the best beaches in Portugal, as well as a picturesque village and harbor with fishing boats.

The town of Vila Nova is great to explore! Visit St. Clement Fort, a fort built in the 17th century that is now an exclusive hotel. Discover the great restaurants, artisan shops, and patisseries in the town center and enjoy the Moorish architecture of the buildings. 

Moreover, Vila Nova de Mil Fontes has some amazing beaches. The best beaches to visit in Vila Nova are Praia da Franquia, Praia das Furnas, and Almograve, 10 kilometers away. Beware that in this area of Portugal, the water is quite cold, and the waves can get large. 

The town also has amazing restaurants such as Tasco do Celso, a family restaurant in the center with fresh seafood, and A Portuguesa, a traditional restaurant showcasing Portuguese produce. 

Photo by Mario Rui Andre (Unsplash)

How to Find a Job in Portugal

Lara Silva
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How to Find a Job in Portugal

When thinking of a potential move, many ask the question – is it easy to find a job in Portugal? Portugal is still recovering from the 2008 economic crisis so finding a job isn’t always easy breezy. However, if you have the right academic qualifications and past work experience, you can find a good job in Portugal.

If you’re ready thinking of embarking on a new career journey in Portugal as an expat, let’s discuss how to find a job in Portugal. 

Expat Guide to Working in Portugal  

Do you need to speak Portuguese to find a job in Portugal?

Unfortunately, most jobs in Portugal require you to speak Portuguese. Learning Portuguese will make it easier to find a job, as well as live in the country.

However, there are many jobs out there, particularly in larger companies, that also tend to pay better salaries that are now English speaking.

You can also live and work in Portugal remotely, as many international companies offer this opportunity. For many, this is seen as the best of both worlds. You get a non-Portuguese salary while getting to enjoy the country.

How to Find a Job in Portugal: Application Process

The best way to find a job in Portugal is to first figure out what your skills and qualifications are. Once you’ve done some good old-fashion self-reflection, make sure to spruce up your CV. Search for jobs in your industry online on websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Jobs in Lisbon, Expatica, Glassdoor, and more.

Alternatively, you can go for the word-of-mouth way. If you don’t know any other expats in Portugal, look for any ads on Facebook groups or even contact companies directly inquiring about vacancies.

Once you’ve found a potential job, you need to make sure your application is solid. A lot of companies will prefer to choose a Portuguese candidate instead so that they do not have to go through the hassle of applying for a visa (if you are a non-EU citizen). Therefore, your qualifications need to stand out. 

The application process in Portugal is pretty straightforward. Usually, you will send your CV with a motivation letter.

In your motivation letter, do not just repeat what is written in your CV. Speak about the skills that you developed throughout the years and your motivations for applying for the job. Your motivation letter shouldn’t just reflect why you want the job, but why the company needs you in particular.

If you are selected for an interview, bring with you a copy of your CV and any educational certificates that could be beneficial.

Since Portuguese people are warm and welcoming, be prepared to make small talk and engage in informal conversation.

Your personal interaction with the interviewee means more than in other countries and could make or break a job offer. You might also need to take psychometric and psychological tests, particularly in a large company.

If the interview goes well, expect that HR will ask you for a few references, such as previous employers or university professors.

Keep in mind that for large companies, interview processes can be divided into many stages.

Jobs in Portugal for Expats

But which jobs should you apply for? Expats in Portugal take on a large number of roles and jobs across the country. However, there are few jobs that are the most in-demand and could be suitable for expats. These jobs include:

  • Software engineers: Lisbon, in particular, has become a start-up hub looking for software engineers and other roles in the IT industry. Many of these jobs are English-speaking.
  • Tourism and hospitality: As Portugal relies heavily on tourism, it’s no surprise that hospitality jobs are in-demand in areas such as Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and more. However, knowing Portuguese can often be a requirement. 
  • Real estate: The real estate industry in Portugal is booming. Keep in mind you will need a certification to work as a real estate agent.

Other in-demand jobs include sales representatives, customer service, accountants, translators, and more.

Salaries in Portugal

However, keep in mind that salaries don’t need to be super high if you are comparing these to a US or UK salary. 

The minimum salary as of January 1, 2023, is €760. The average gross monthly salary in Portugal is €1,361. As Portugal has a progressive taxation system, those receiving the average salary will pay more. After paying income tax and social security, you will be left with €960.

However, sadly, over half of young people up to 34 years old make less than €767 a month. Only 3% of young people make more than €1,642 a month. 

What are the best-paying jobs in Portugal?

There are exceptions to these low salaries. Certain jobs pay a lot better, but the vacancies are low, and oftentimes over a decade of experience is required. Let’s a take a look at the best paid jobs in Portugal.

10 Best Paid Jobs in Portugal

1. General Director in the Private Health Sector: A general director of a hospital oversees the general administration of a private hospital with the health of patients in mind. These professionals make anywhere between €120,000 and €150,000 per year before tax. 

2. Chief Information Officer (CIO): A CIO supervises a company’s IT organization, managing and implementing computer technologies. These professionals make anywhere between €110,000 and €140,000 per year before tax. 

3. Commercial Director: These are responsible for planning, developing, and implementing commercial strategies to generate revenue for a company. They make between €100,000 and €150,000 per year before tax. 

4. Shared Service Center Director: They are primarily responsible for planning and controlling the functions within a shared service center and organizing the performance of the available services. These professionals make anywhere between €95,000 and €120,000 per year before tax.

5. E-Commerce Manager: These are responsible for managing orders, improving the customer experience, and evaluating the needs of customers. These professionals make anywhere between €50,000 and €75,000 per year before tax. 

6. Software Engineer: A software engineer designs, creates, and maintains computer systems and applications. The salary of a software engineer tends to start at €45,000 per year before tax.

7. Cybersecurity Specialist: A cybersecurity specialist monitors, detects, and responds to cybersecurity risks and threats. These professionals make anywhere between €45,000 and €60,000 per year before tax. 

8. Machine Learning Specialist: A machine learning specialist is specialized in developing machine learning, a niche in computer science that focuses on developing algorithms that “learn” from data to make predictions. Salaries tend to start at €40,000 a year but can go higher. 

9. Big Data Specialist: A big data specialist reviews, analyzes, and reports on big data stored and maintained by an organization. These professionals make anywhere between €35,000 and €50,000 per year before tax. 

10. Digital Marketer: A digital marketer uses digital channels such as company websites and social networks to generate leads and build brand awareness. A digital marketer in Portugal makes between €35,000 and €45,000 a year. 

Monsanto, Portugal – The idyllic scenery for House of the Dragon

Joana Almeida
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Monsanto, Portugal – The idyllic scenery for House of the Dragon

Accustomed to the silence and tranquility typical of the Portuguese countryside, a small village in the Beira Baixa region, where the granite hills and a centuries-old castle tell stories, suddenly found itself at the focus of international news. 

I’m talking about Monsanto in the municipality of Idanha-a-Nova.

The village was one of the places chosen to receive the film crew of the famous Game of Thrones prequel, the new series House of the Dragon, that finally found a home for its dragon.

The show producers reported having been enchanted not only by Monsanto but also by Portugal itself. Ryan Condal, the director and screenwriter, has expressed this amazement:

“The trip to Portugal was unprecedented for ‘Game of Thrones’ and even for the film industry in general. Therefore, there is a lot of Portugal to see on television”, he said, adding that Portugal is “a beautiful country and great for filming. When we saw Monsanto on a mountain, we found Dragonstone,” 

According to Sofia de Noronha, the production manager, even the entire production relied heavily on the help of the locals, who even hosted the crew during the recordings. 

The Village of Monsanto

Located on a hillside northeast of Guarda, Monsanto keeps a unique architectural feature, with its peculiar granite houses scattered on a cliff whose framing seems taken from a fantastic movie. No wonder HBO’s wise choice to shoot some scenes of House of the Dragon here.

For Portugal, but especially for a place as small as Monsanto, it was an incredible accomplishment to be spotlighted under the name of an HBO production and have Monsanto’s population quadruple almost overnight.

Moreover, like many other villages in Portugal’s countryside, its population keeps decreasing. Therefore, the local inhabitants, used to the typical serenity of that place, suddenly found themselves, during the fall of 2021, in the middle of a great bustle that the village had not witnessed for a while.

A bustle that was enjoyed by the majority but also criticized by some who felt that the recordings were having a negative impact on the lives of local merchants. These saw a decrease in the number of tourists, provoked by the various access restrictions both to the castle and parts of the village. 

The Most Portuguese Village of Portugal

But Monsanto was already famous before House of the Dragon came along. This picturesque village still holds the title of being “the most typical Portuguese village of all,” won in 1938 in a contest during the regime of Estado Novo. 

Nowadays, with the increasing awareness that has been made about the need to develop the interior of Portugal, Monsanto is one of the many villages that are on the route of the Portuguese historical villages.

Travelers can even see this itinerary on the screens of those who travel on the Portuguese airline TAP. The route of the historical villages aims to promote medieval villages, preserved by time, typically whose houses are made of schist or granite and are quite rich and filled with unknown stories.

Monsanto’s History

Monsanto’s history, like many of these villages, dates back to the country’s foundation. It was populated at the time of King Afonso Henriques in the 13th century. The castle, which during the shooting turned out to be a refuge for a fictitious dragon, dates back to 1239 and belonged to the famous Order of the Knights Templar at the time. 

When we climb the hill and see the castle, we discover why the House of the Dragon chose this location.

Not only is the view from up there breathtaking, with the landscape of the highest Portuguese mountain, the Serra da Estrela in the horizon, but the granite castle, set among huge rocks with an old house in the middle, makes us feel like we are traveling to a medieval setting, or of course, to a series where dragons rule.

Once in Monsanto and traveling between fiction and reality, you should also stop at the Mother Church or Church of St. Salvador, dated from the 15th – 16th century, as well as the houses themselves that are part of the landscape and are undoubtedly the most unique. 

These houses are now made between or under huge granite rocks, stones scattered throughout that holy hill (Montes Sanctus) that originated the name of this village.

And after all this climbing and descending, if you get hungry, there is no lack of restaurant suggestions. I recommend Casa da Velha Fonte restaurant, which combines the best of traditional Portuguese flavors with the elegance of modern cuisine. 

What to visit around Monsanto

And when the day is over, if you want to continue the trip, there are other lands to explore. From Monsanto to the Serra da Estrela and the town of Covilhã, it’s just a one-hour drive.

Or, if you are opting to go south, why not stop in the town of Idanha a Nova? This town will certainly surprise you, not because there are soundtracks directed to dragons, but because of music from a local musical instrument.

The adufe (a square percussion instrument) can be heard all over, having contributed to Idanha a Nova being integrated into UNESCO’s world network of creative cities. 

These are more than enough reasons to go to the Interior of Portugal. Make plans, and hit the road as soon as possible!

6 Best Things to Do in Graciosa, Azores

Lara Silva
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6 Best Things to Do in Graciosa, Azores

A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Graciosa is an island on the Azores archipelago with only around 4,000 locals but so much to explore. 

Graciosa is known as the white island due to the unique white characteristics in Pedras Brancas (White Stones) and Serra Branca (White Hills). Its closes neighbor is São Jorge, making it a great spot for island hopping larger islands, as well. 

Let’s take a look at the 7 best things to do in Graciosa for your next Azorean getaway. 

Guide to Graciosa, Azores

1. Visit the dramatic Caldeira da Graciosa

Classified as a Regional Natural Monument, the Graciosa caldeira is a large volcanic crater that is also the second-largest forest area on the island. This nature spot is not a small one. It has a diameter of 4.4 kilometers and an altitude of 405 meters. The crater includes caves that are tourist attractions, such as the Furna da Maria Encantada (Cave of Enchanted Mary), and the Furna do Enxofre (Sulphur Cave).

2. Hike the shortest trail in all of the Azores

Perfect for a quick stroll, the shortest trail in the Azores (PR03 GRA) starts in the center of the village of Luz and ends at the gorgeous Baia da Folga. The hike is around 2 KM and only takes one hour. You will get to see seaside goldenrods, African tamarisks, and endemic fescue. 

Graciosa has three more hiking trails that are worth a shot: Great Route of Graciosa (40 KM, 14h), Serra Branca – Praia (8.7 KM, 2h30m), and Volta à Caldeira – Furna do Enxofre (10.8 KM, 3h).

Only hike on “official” trails that are taken care of by the Azores Tourism Broad. These are properly maintained and signed with hiking markers throughout so people do not get lost.

3. Enjoy some good old-fashioned water sports

Graciosa is really well known for water sports. From diving, sailing, kayaking, and even fishing, tourists can enjoy Graciosa from the sea in a unique activity.

We recommend diving as Graciosa is one of the best places in Europe for the sport, with waters that have over 25 meters of visibility.

The water temperatures are also quite warm, in comparison to other islands, at around 20 degrees Celsius. There are a lot of diverse fauna and sealife species on the island, from sharks, tunas, and shrimps.

You can also see the black coral that is only found in some locations on the island. For windsurfing, head to the bays of Santa Cruz and Praia.

4. Take a dip in the relaxing thermal baths

You cannot go to Graciosa without stopping at the natural pools of Carapacho, essentially nature’s spa. These natural swimming pools give you a view of the ocean and neighboring islands.

This spot also includes thermal baths, a pool with warm water at 40ºC that is rich in bicarbonate and magnesium salts. These have been used by the locals since the 1700s to treat diseases. The baths now function as a spa and have jet showers and jacuzzies. The spa is open between May and September and costs €1 for 30 minutes.

5. Day trip to São Jorge

Known as the Brown Island of the Azores, São Jorge, is a volcanic island that features astonishing views of Pico and Faial island, as well as green landscapes and a dark blue ocean. From Graciosa, you can get a 2h30 ferry to São Jorge that costs around €10.

We recommend exploring the Fajãs, small plains located at sea level, which were once created by lava flows. Our favorite fajã is Fajã do Ouvidor, one that the locals go to the most. It’s home to the Poça Simão Dias, the most amazing swimming hole on the island. The water is clear, and you can even jump from low rocks.

You should also visit the coffee plantation in Fajã dos Vimes. You can try the locally grown coffee at Cafe Nunes, owned by a family who opened the cafe at the plantation in 1997. 

For a well-rounded experience, book this van tour that takes you to the coffee plantations, a cheese tasting, a 16th-century church, as well as the Poça Simão Dias. The tour costs €110 and includes lunch.

Photo by Anika M (Unsplash)

6. Day trip to Terceira

Terceira is an active volcanic island in the Azores that also has many extinct volcanoes. The name Terceira means “third”, as this island was the third to be discovered in the Azores in the 15th century. It is the second most inhabited island of the Azores, with around 60,000 people living there. 

 The historic center and capital of the island is called Angra do Heroísmo. It was founded in 1534 and was the first place in the Azores to be classified as a city. It was made a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983.

We recommend booking this half-day city tour, where you will get to see the capital’s main attractions with a tour guide for €35, including the historic center. 

Another great activity is Algar do Carvão, an extinct volcano in Terceira that anyone can visit. A force of nature, it has some of the largest silica stalactites in the world. The volcano is 150 feet deep, and its size is remarkable. If you would like the full experience book a tour with a guide here for €45.

Terceira is a hiking hotspot, with 10 excellent trails suitable for any nature lover. Our favorite hike is the Mistérios Negros, a 5 km hike of fewer than 3 hours.

Photo by Rodrigo Ramos (Unsplash)
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Immigrant population in Portugal increases to 750,000

Lara Silva
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Immigrant population in Portugal increases to 750,000

For the seventh year in a row, the immigrant population in Portugal has increased, totaling 752,252 in 2022. According to the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF), there was an increase of 58,365 immigrants in comparison to the year prior, an 8.3% increase.

The largest growing immigrant populations in Portugal in the last year were from Brazil and India. The Brazilian community remains the largest immigrant population in Portugal, with over 230,000 people, a 13% increase since 2021.

The Indian community also increased by 13% to around 34,000 residents, making it the fourth-largest immigrant population in Portugal.

According to SEF, the 10 largest immigrant populations in Portugal are:

  1. Brazil (233,138)
  2. United Kingdom (36,639)
  3. Cape Verde (35,744)
  4. India (34,232
  5. Italy (33,707)
  6. Angola (30,417)
  7. France (27,614)
  8. Ukraine (26,898)
  9. Romania (23,967)
  10. Nepal (23,441)

Nepal took 10th place in 2022, taking over China’s place on the list of the largest immigrant populations in Portugal. 

Cost of Living in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Cost of Living in Portugal

While locals are likely to disagree, Forbes ranked Portugal as one of the best places to live due to its arguable affordability. Those coming from abroad, in particular, will find their purchasing power goes a long way in Portugal. 

For example, the cost of living in Portugal is around 40% lower than in the United States.  Many expats can thus enjoy a comfortable living in Portugal at reasonable prices they would not encounter back home.

Our guide to the cost of living in Portugal provides an overview of monthly budgets and costs in Portugal. With everything you need to know, including the cost of living in different cities. 

Moving to Portugal

Portugal Monthly Budgets

To truly understand the cost of living in Portugal, let’s take a look at the monthly budgets for a single expat, a family of four, and a digital nomad. Keep in mind that most of the values are averages, as prices can differ dramatically depending on the region and/or city.

Single Expat in Portugal

On average, a single expat will need €1260 a month in Portugal on average.

A one-bedroom apartment costs around €750 a month in Portuguese city centers or around €600 outside city centers.

Keep in mind that this is an average and rent in Lisbon is more expensive, for example. Utilities will cost you around €130, including electricity, water, garbage, internet, etc. 

A monthly transportation pass costs around €40. For your leisure budget, you will need at least €160 a month which is enough for eating out once a week, enjoying museums, etc. Budget around €180 for groceries.

These two last portions of your budget can go way up, depending on your lifestyle. 

In regard to healthcare, EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal.

This allows them time to get registered as legal residents to continue using the public health system.

However, non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health systemic they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.

Even if this is the case, before arriving in Portugal and becoming a legal resident, they must purchase private health insurance to cover medical care.

Family of Four in Portugal

As a family of four, expect to need at least €2600 a month in Portugal on average.

A three-bedroom apartment costs around €1300 in Portugal’s city centers. If you choose to rent outside centers, you can get apartments for less than €1000. 

Budget €160 for utilities, which includes electricity, heating, water, internet, and more. 

Transportation for a family of four should cost at least €150 for public transportation. If you want to drive instead, fuel can cost anywhere between €150 and €250 a month.

€500 is a good enough budget for leisure and eating out once a week as a family. 

Education could cost you! Public schools are free in Portugal, but school is taught in Portuguese. If you want to place your child in a private international school, this could cost anywhere between €6,000 and €20,000 a year. 

A weekly grocery shop should cost you around €125 a week, but this will depend on your food and supermarket choices.

Digital Nomad in Portugal

The monthly budget for a digital nomad in Portugal is around €1300, but this will depend on a number of factors. 

The most important – accommodation. A shared room in a hostel costs around €20 a night, while a private room starts at €40 a night. Opting for a shared room will save you a lot of money.

On the other hand, if you want to book a private Airbnb, these could cost upwards of €1500 a month in most places in Portugal. 

If you are looking for a co-working space, a desk costs an average of €150 a month. Budget around €40 for a monthly transportation pass. 

We’re guessing you want to enjoy all that Portugal has to offer as a digital nomad. We recommend budgeting around €300 for leisure activities, including eating out, museums, etc.

Keep in mind that you can spend a lot more, depending on your lifestyle. 

If your accommodation includes a kitchen, you can save a lot of money by cooking. Groceries cost around €45 a week.

If you decide to eat out, the average affordable meal costs around €10 without alcohol.

Portuguese Cities: Cost of Living for Expats

Lisbon 

The monthly budget in Lisbon for an expat is around €1500.

You can get a one-bedroom apartment in the city center for around €830, although these can go for over €1,000.

Utilities, including electricity, wifi, etc., won’t cost you more than €150 a month, and public transportation is extremely affordable at €50 a month.

Groceries are known to be cheap in Portugal, especially if you know where to shop, and should not run you more than €200 a month.

However, similarly to going out to restaurants, bars, and museums, this portion of the budget is also dependent on your lifestyle.

Cost of Living in Lisbon

Porto

The monthly budget for an expat in Porto is around €200 cheaper than in Lisbon, at around €1300.

You can get a one-bedroom apartment for €700, while these can cost up to €1000. A three-bedroom costs around €1250 a month.

For utilities, expect to pay around €140 a month, including heating, electricity, gas, as well as wifi and phone data.

A monthly transport pass costs around €35, which is much more affordable than renting a car and paying for fuel.

Budget at least €150 for eating out in restaurants and exploring the city’s culture and nightlife.

This part of the budget can be reduced or increased depending on your lifestyle, along with your monthly grocery budget, which averages around €200 a month.

Cost of Living in Porto

Funchal

The monthly budget for an expat in Funchal is less than €1100, making it around €200 cheaper than Porto and €400 cheaper than Lisbon.

A one-bedroom apartment costs around €740, although you can always opt for renting a room which should cost less than €500.

The public transportation system is quite efficient, and a monthly pass is around €35.

Utilities are a lot cheaper than in mainland Portugal at around €120, including phone data and cable TV.

For exploring the island, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget at least €150 a month.

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

Cost of Living in Funchal

Faro

The monthly budget for an expat in Faro is less than €1400.

A one-bedroom apartment costs around €750. However, you can save here by renting a room for less than €400.

A monthly transportation pass is around €50 or less for buses. You can also get a train to many cities from Faro, such as Lisbon and Porto. 

Utilities cost around €150, including phone data and cable TV.

For exploring Faro, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget around €200 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle. 

Groceries for a single person average out at around €50 a week.

Cost of Living in Faro

Braga

The monthly budget for an expat in Braga is at least €1090.

A one-bedroom apartment costs around €590 in the city center. However, you can save by renting outside the city center for around €445.

A monthly transportation pass is around €30 or less. You can also get a train to many cities from Faro, such as Lisbon and Porto. 

Utilities cost around €130, including phone data and cable TV.   

For exploring Braga, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget around €160 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle. 

Groceries for a single person average out at around €45 a week.

Cost of Living in Braga

Cost of Living in Portugal vs. the USA & the UK

Portugal vs. the USA

Consumer prices are around 40% cheaper, and rent is over 50% cheaper in Portugal on average. However, keep in mind that salaries are, on average, 75% lower in Portugal. 

Rent is more affordable in Portugal than in the US. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon is around €1,150, whereas this will cost you around $2,300 in Washington DC.

A monthly public transportation pass in a Portuguese city is less than €50 a month, while in the US, these go for over $70 dollars, although prices can differ highly by state.

According to Numbeo, Knoxville, Tennessee, is one of the most affordable cities in the US. Even so, grocery prices in Knoxville are 44% higher than in Lisbon. Restaurant prices are around 16% higher. 

Portugal vs. the UK

Consumer prices in the UK are 35% higher, and rent is almost 40% more expensive than in Portugal. 

Rent is a lot more affordable in Portugal than in the UK. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon is around €1,150, whereas this will cost you around €2,250 in London.

A monthly public transportation pass in a Portuguese city is less than €50 a month, while in the UK, these go for over €70. In London, a monthly transport pass goes for over €150. 

According to Numbeo, Leicester, is one of the most affordable cities in the UK. Even so, grocery prices in Leicester are 7% higher than in Lisbon. Restaurant prices are around 25% higher. 

Dollar bills. Photo by Alexander Mils (Unsplash)

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5 Best Things to Do in Santa Maria, Azores

Lara Silva
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0
5 Best Things to Do in Santa Maria, Azores

Santa Maria was the first to be discovered by explorers and was the first to be formed in the Azorean archipelago, making it incredibly special.

Home to 6,000 locals, Santa Maria is also a lot different than other islands, with yellow beaches and even a “red desert.” Along with São Miguel 81 KM away, Santa Maria is part of the Eastern Group of the Azores, making it great for island hopping. 

Let’s take a look at the 5 best things to do in Santa Maria for your next trip to the Azores.

Guide to Santa Maria, Azores

1. Explore the local cuisine of Santa Maria

The best way to get to know an Azorean island is through its cuisine. Exploring the local cuisine of Santa Maria is an activity in itself.

There are a few foods you need to try, such as alheira, limpets, fried mackerel, and local cheeses. 

But where to go to taste these traditional foods?

One of our favorite restaurants in Santa Maria is Ponta Negra, located in São Lourenço Bay. This place has a gorgeous terrace where you can enjoy authentic Portuguese dishes from well-renowned Azorean chefs. 

Another alternative is A Travessa Cafe Snack Bar in Vila do Porto, a top-rated restaurant known for its quality customer service and artisanal beer. Mesa d’Oito is another great spot for a more luxurious dining experience. 

2. Discover the natural pools and beaches

Looking for a dip on a warm day? Santa Maria doesn’t disappoint, featuring some of the best natural pools and beaches in the Azores. 

Your first spot should be the Baía dos Anjos (Angel Bay), located in Vila do Porto. This spot also has a wide variety of bird species that you will get to observe.

Another place to not miss is the Azores’ largest waterfall in all of Portugal, Cascata do Aveiro. The waterfall is over 100 meters long and is located in Maia. You can access it through a hiking trail.

Other great swimming spots in Santa Maria to visit are Piscinas Naturais da Maia and Praia Formosa, the latter being a white sandy beach.

3. Explore the red desert of Santa Maria

Who knew Santa Maria would feature a red desert? Barreiro da Faneca is a semi-desert that happens to have a beautiful shade of red. This area is around 8.35 square KM and covers the Bays of Raposo, Tagarete, and Cré.

A protected landscape of the Azores since 2008, the red desert is part of the geological formation called the Feteiras Formation, the last volcanic eruption in Santa Maria. You can discover the red desert by walking the signed paths, but make sure to stay on these.

4. Day trip to São Miguel

São Miguel is only a 4-hour ferry ride away of around €20. The largest island in the Azores, São Miguel is known as the Green Island due to its beautiful greenery. The island has around 140,000 inhabitants, with 45,000 people residing in Ponta Delgada, the island’s largest city.

São Miguel is the perfect spot for those who want to experience the classic Azorean life, as well as a larger city! Therefore, there is so much to do on this island. Here are our favorite things to do in São Miguel:

  • Sete Cidades: Sete Cidades is a municipality in São Miguel and probably the most famous place to visit on the island. Here you can visit the Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a large lake divided by a bridge into two parts: one green and one blue. 
  • Ponta Delgada: The capital since 1546, Ponta Delgada is a cosmopolitan town that is full of historical flavor. The best part is that you can walk around the city on foot and that it has the best restaurants on the island.
  • Furnas: In the eastern part of São Miguel, you have Furnas, the thermal hotspot of the Azores. There are over thirty geysers around the Furnas village. These are essentially bubbling, steaming caldeiras that smell of sulfur. 
  • Hiking: São Miguel has the most hiking trails in the Azores, with over 20 to explore. The best hiking trails in São Miguel are Lagoa do Fogo (11 KM, 4h00), Sete Cidades (7.7 KM, 2h00), and Lagoa das Furnas (9.5 KM, 3h00).

5. Walk around the main town

A visit to Santa Maria’s main town, Vila do Porto is a must! This village is where most locals live, featuring houses in Manueline style from when the island was initially settled. You can walk through amazing buildings with unique architecture.

One of the oldest churches in the Azores, the Parish Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção is a must-see, as well as the Church of Nossa Senhora da Purificação.

Make sure to visit the São Brás Fort designed by the Italian Tomaso Benedetti that now is where the Military Museum is located.

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Cost of Living in Portugal vs UK 2023

Lara Silva
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2
Cost of Living in Portugal vs UK 2023

Is your dream to retire in Portugal or work remotely in this sunny Southern European country? If you are coming from the United Kingdom, you are in for a treat when it comes to affordability. Moving to Portugal might include an initial investment (such as purchasing a home or applying for a visa), but it will definitely save you money in the long term. 

While the local purchasing power in the UK is around 90% higher than in Portugal, Portugal is a lot cheaper. Consumer prices in the UK are 35% higher, and rent is almost 40% more expensive than in Portugal. 

Keep in mind that retiring or working remotely is your best option to make use of Portugal’s low cost of living. The average salary in Portugal after tax is under 900 euros, while in the UK, it’s over 2,500 euros. 

Let’s take a look at an overview of the cost of living in Portugal vs the United Kingdom in 2023.

Housing Prices and Rent

Buying a house in Portugal is, on average, a lot more affordable than in the UK. The average UK house price was around €350,000 in August 2022. A house in the UK costs anywhere between €2000 to €3500 per m2. In Portugal, a house costs an average of €1450 per m2.

Rent is also more affordable in Portugal than in the UK. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon is around €1,150, whereas this will cost you around €2,250 in London.

Transport

Public transportation is relatively affordable in Portugal, including intercity buses and trains. A monthly public transportation pass in a Portuguese city is less than €50 a month, while in the UK, these go for over €70. In London, a monthly transport pass goes for over €150. 

Photo by Gil Ribeiro (Unsplash)

Food

Food prices are a lot more affordable in Portugal than in the UK, even in the most expensive city of Lisbon. According to Numbeo, Leicester, is one of the most affordable cities in the UK. Even so, grocery prices in Leicester are 7% higher than in Lisbon. Restaurant prices are around 25% higher. 

If you live in Portugal, spending less than €70 to €50 a week on a one-person grocery shop is doable. Weekly groceries for a family of four costs around €150 a week, depending on your lifestyle. An inexpensive meal should cost around €10 to €15, while a mid-range restaurant around €20. 

Portuguese sardines. Photo by Alex Teixeira (Unsplash)

Education

Public education in Portugal is free and education is compulsory between the ages of 16 and 18 years old. Portugal also has a wide range of private schools, including international schools. International schools are a lot more expensive than Portuguese private schools.

Private international schools tend to cost anywhere between around €7,000 to almost €20,000 a year, depending on the school and your child’s grade. In some parts of the country, you will find UK curriculums such as the GCSEs in these international schools. 

Despite their cost, private schools in Portugal are still more affordable than in the UK where prices start at around €20,000 a year.

Healthcare

In Portugal, health care is extremely affordable under the public health care system. Luckily health care is completely free for the elderly and children. Most treatments and appointments are free for all actually, except for specific ones that should not cost you more than 10 to 15 euros. 

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. If this is the case for you, health care could be almost free. 

However, many prefer to access private health care due to shorter waiting times. An appointment costs around 50 to 100 euros, so having health insurance is advised, which tends to cost less than 50 euros a month.

In the UK, private health insurance is a lot more expensive at around 150 euros a month, and so are appointments. 

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5 Books To Better Understand Portuguese Culture

Joana Almeida
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0
5 Books To Better Understand Portuguese Culture

Recently, Portugal has gone from being a country known by few to one with a place in the limelight, both in tourism and as a place many choose to live in.

However, many either have a distorted notion of reality or are entirely unaware of a country’s enormous historical and cultural wealth that, according to Luís Vaz de Camões, “gave worlds to the world.”

Here, then, is a short list of five books that may better enlighten the traveler about the culture, history, and life of the Portuguese. Hopefully, these books will help you better understand Portuguese culture. 

1. The Portuguese: A Modern History by Barry Hatton

We begin oddly enough with an author who is not Portuguese but who has nevertheless devoted his life to writing and understanding Portuguese culture as few others have done.

In this book, British author and journalist Barry Hatton brings together a collection of several articles he has written informally about Portugal, focusing a lot on its history, myths, and symbols that still today have a significant impact on the way the Portuguese see their world and interact with each other.

The book is a journey through medieval and contemporary Portugal, highlighting the time of the discoveries as a period of good fortune for the country and also explaining an empire’s decay and how this affected Portuguese morality.

The reader will learn more about the Portuguese relationship to the longest dictatorship in Western Europe, the impact of the Carnation Revolution, and the change and evolution that took place in its aftermath.

You will also travel through fado music, gastronomy, and the history of its origins. Many may feel that the author focuses only on the basics, perhaps leaving out many other perspectives.

However, for those who are totally unaware of Portuguese culture, this book is an excellent recommendation for those who want to know more.

2. Travel to Portugal by José Saramago

The only Nobel of Portuguese literature, José Saramago, wrote a book as the result of a trip he made around Portugal between October 1979 and July 1980 at the invitation of publisher “Círculo de Leitores”. 

As the title indicates, in this journey through the most varied corners of Portugal, the reader becomes the “traveler,” wandering through José Saramago’s words, but also through known and forgotten lands, going from a more agitated Portugal to where time seemed to have stopped.

In the author’s words, the book “is not a tourist guide” but rather a vision of the country through the eyes of the one who narrates it.

Even though it is not a tourist guide in the practical sense of the words, this remarkable book is a pleasant read that gives us the feeling of being on the road with the author, going from village to village, town to town, exploring historical symbols, ancient churches, palatial houses, medieval towers, and thousand-year-old bridges.

At the same time, reading this book is an invitation to get to know the author better, as well as the extensive work that earned him the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1998.

3. The Maias: Episodes of Romantic Life by Eça de Queirós

The Maias, the short version of the book’s name, is one of the most famous books of Portuguese literature written by one of the genre’s biggest names, Eça de Queirós.

Although written in the 19th century and published by Livraria Lello & Irmão in Porto (one of the most beautiful bookstores in Portugal) in 1888, the book transcends its time.

It is still seen as a very faithful portrait of the existence of hierarchies in Portuguese society and a satire of the country’s aristocracy, which, despite being obsolete, believes itself to have superior morality above all other classes.

This book’s plot is set in late 19th century Lisbon and revolves around three generations of the same family, focusing mainly on the love story between Carlos da Maia and Maria Eduarda, with the family home Ramalhete as its backdrop.

The Maias is considered an excellent novel for its vivid description of society and the social and political changes occurring in Portugal. Still, it also portrays emotional states such as love, envy, betrayal, and the constant search for life’s purpose.

The ending is quite telling of this when the main character tells his best friend that “there is no point in running for anything” since everything in life is an illusion and suffering.

Yet, they both end up desperately running to catch the electrified tram that can take them to a dinner party they are late for.

4. The Murmuring Coast by Lídia Jorge

This book may be enlightening about something that many are unaware of, the Portuguese colonial war in the African territories. This war, which lasted from 1961 to 1974, had, like all armed conflicts, a profound impact on the Portuguese psyche that is still in force today.

Written by Lídia Jorge and published in 1988, the book quickly became a best-seller, selling about 50 thousand books in less than a year. The work is the product of the author’s experience in her years living in Africa, particularly the three years she lived in Mozambique. 

The book’s plot then unfolds in this country in the late sixties and early seventies of the 20th century and is a testimony to the decadence of the Portuguese empire, as well as a vivid portrayal of the years during the colonial war.

Taking place mainly in the Stella Maris hotel, the book’s plot tells us, particularly about the love story between Eva Lopo and Luís Alex, a fighter in the service of Salazar’s fascist regime at the time.

But after portraying their marriage, Eva becomes the prominent voice in the narrative. Having lost all her love for her husband as she sees him turn into a bloodthirsty man, she leads a love affair with a mixed-race journalist out of spite for her husband.

Eva is the voice of lucidity, while Luís, the symbol of the last days of an empire and a regime unable to rule by reason and having to use force and oppression to maintain governance.

The book is the author’s most famous and a great reminder of the state’s power over each individual’s life, as well as a lesson on the Portuguese decolonization process, something so little talked about abroad and in Portugal.

5. Stormy Isles: An Azorean Tale by Vitorino Nemésio

When one thinks of Portugal, most think only of that tiny rectangle leaning against Spain. And even if names like Cristiano Ronaldo or Nelly Furtado are known abroad, many don’t know that they have their origins not from that rectangle but in Madeira and the Azores archipelago, respectively.

And if Madeira has become more famous abroad, the Azores, of immense natural beauty, are only now beginning to take their first steps towards opening up to the world.

Its distance and positioning in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean may explain why they are not so well known and visited, making the Azores a part of Portugal whose culture and society sometimes eludes both Portuguese and foreigners.

But an excellent way to bridge this gap is to turn to literature. In this regard, Vitorino Nemésio’s “Mau Tempo no Canal” (translated as Stormy Isles: an Azorean Tale) is considered one of the most beautiful works of 20th-century literature in Portugal.

It is a window into what it is like to be an Azorean and into the society of a small place, far away from the rest of the world.

This book, written in 1944, is set on the islands of Faial, Terceira, and São Jorge, where the action takes place between 1917 and 1919, portraying the stratified society of the city of Horta in particular.

Of particular note is the portrait of wealthy families and the poor and humble families of the Azorean community, as well as the picture of a typically small society limited by its insularity. A must-read for those who have never heard of the Azores.

See More History & Culture

Although all different, these books all portray a little of what makes Portugal and Portuguese culture so unique. Different voices and stories, but all with something in common: a country called Portugal.

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