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9 Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal

Lara Silva
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9 Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal

The oldest country in Europe, Portugal’s cultural heritage is vast and there is so much history to explore particularly its World Heritage Sites. Portugal is home to 17 World Heritage Sites, as listed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). From astounding monasteries, landscapes, and historic centers, we have selected our 9 favorite UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal.

1. Historic Center of Porto

A world heritage site since 1996, the Historic Center of Porto includes the parishes of Se, Vitoria, Sao Nicolau, and Miragaia. The Historic Center has been urbanized and modernized but remains reflective of medieval times since the Middle Ages. UNESCO awarded the title as they found that the area had a remarkable universal value due to the huge number of historical buildings. The area overlooks the Douro river and is home to the city’s most iconic buildings such as the Se do Porto, Sao Bento Railway Station, Torre dos Clerigos, Palacio da Bolsa, and more. A protected area was also defined by UNESCO which includes Aliados Avenue, Praca de Trindade, Carregal Garden, Vila Nova de Gaia, and more. Since the decision in 1996, there has been a growth in the tourism sector in Porto. 

Photo by L.Filipe C.Sousa (Unsplash)

Book Historic Center Walking Tour

2. Cultural Landscape of Sintra

Sintra gained the UNESCO Cultural Landscape classification in 1995, encompassing a mountainous strip with gardens, parks, and monuments. UNESCO accepted the classification due to the astounding historic landmarks present in the area, making Sintra worthy of heritage status. Sintra was swept up in the Romantic movement in the 19th century, where most of the well-known landmarks came about. The most famous monument is the Pena Palace, a romanticist style palace from the 19th century, as well as Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra National Palace, Seteais Palace, Castle of the Moors, and more. The Romanticist period has made its mark on Sintra, today a town known for its romantic forested terrain and astonishing palaces that once belonged to royal families and aristocrats.

Photo by Chris Barbalis (Unsplash)

Book Sintra, Regaleira, and Pena Palace Guided Tour

3. Alto Douro Wine Region

A region near Porto that has been producing wine for over 2,000 years, Alto Douro Wine Region was made a World Heritage site in 2001. Covering over 250,000 hectares of which 20% is used for wine production, the region includes the river Douro and the Varosa, Corgo, Tavora, Torto, and Pinhao. This region is where the Douro river flows from Porto and where Douro wines are made, the grapes are grown on the hill topped vineyard. The area holds the ideal conditions for growing grapes, with a hot dry climate and rocky soil, and is associated with Port wine production primarily, as well as table wines. Whether you are on a boat trip along the river with a view of the vineyards, visiting a vineyard, or staying at a hotel within the greenery, you will find the region is deserving of its UNESCO titles.

Photo by Rach Sam (Unsplash)

Book Douro Valley: Wine Tours with Lunch, Tastings & River Cruise

4. Convent of Christ Tomar

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, the Convent of Christ is a former Catholic convent in Tomar, as well as a castle in the center of Portugal. Used by the Knights Templar, a Catholic military order, the castle was first built in 1160, and the convent was added later as an extension. Located on the top of a hill, the property was used to secure the border of the Christian kingdom against the Moors. After the Templar Order was dissolved in 1312, the property was transferred to the Order of Christ. The Covent of Christ features a Manueline nave, eight cloisters built in the 15th and 16th centuries, and a Romanesque round Catholic church. The Convent is open to the public and the church still holds religious services.

Book Tomar and Almourol Knights Templar Tour

5. Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture

The 987-hectare landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture on the island of Pico in the Azores extends through most of the island’s western, northwestern and southwestern coasts. The landscape features a network of black basalt stone walls running parallel to the coast, built to protect the vines from the wind and sea, allowing for the production of wine in the area. The wine cultivation of vines in Pico began in the 15th century due to the island’s volcanic soil that is rich in nutrients and the warm microclimate. The landscape was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004, as UNESCO found that the area is of outstanding universal value due to its authenticity.

Photo by David Magalhães (Unsplash)

Book Azores: Wine Tasting Tour on Pico Island

6. Laurisilva of Madeira

Located on the archipelago of Madeira, Laurisilva of Madeira is a laurel forest, a type of subtropical forest found in areas with high humidity, comprised of around 15,000 hectares of land. This is the largest surviving area of laurel forest and contains a unique set of plants and animals such as the Madeiran long-toed pigeon. The Laurisilva of Madeira plays a large role in biodiversity conservation with at least 76 plant species endemic to Madeira and the landscape covers over 20% of the island. From rocky landscape, cliff, and thick blankets of lush green, moss, and ferns cover the forest.

Photo by Colin Watts (Unsplash)

Guide to Madeira

7. Historic Center of Evora

The capital of the Alentejo province, the landmarks in the Historic Center of Evora were mostly built in the 15th century, while the famous Roman Temple was constructed around the first century A.D. In fact, Evora’s history is 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 historic 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

8. Coimbra University – Alta and Sofia

Located in Northern Portugal, the University of Coimbra is situated on a hill overlooking the city and has evolved for more than seven centuries throughout the old town. From the 12th century Cathedral of Santa Cruz, the 16th century Royal Palace of Alcacova, and the 18th century Botanical Garden, the university is a reference in the development of higher education institutions all over the world. Listed in 2013, UNESCO found that Coimbra University is an outstanding example of an integrated university city that keeps cultural and ceremonial traditions alive through the centuries.

Photo by Henrique Macedo (Unsplash)

Book University of Coimbra Walking Tour

9. Monastery of Alcobaca

Located north of Lisbon, the Monastery of Alcobaca was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989. Founded in 1153 by the first King of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, UNESCO believes the monastery is a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art, due to its size and the purity of its architectural style. The Monastery of Alcobaca has been properly conserved without ruining the property’s integrity, following an early Gothic style and representing the founding of this style in Portugal.

Photo by IA Photography (Flickr)

Book Alcobaca Tour

Long waiting times at Lisbon airport

Lara Silva
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Long waiting times at Lisbon airport

Waiting times at Lisbon airport have surpassed three hours on Sunday due to “insufficient resources and functioning SEF border control areas”, according to ANA Airports. Long waiting lines are present at arrivals, but also departures for passengers without EU documents. Passengers at Lisbon airport were being given water to help minimize discomfort during waiting times this weekend. 

SEF has announced that the airports at Porto and Faro are also facing a high influx of passengers. The Observador reports that on Saturday and Saturday over 100,000 people passed through border controls at Portuguese airports, around 50,000 in Lisbon, 36,000 in Faro, and 10,000 in Porto.

According to Ana Vieira, the inspector of the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF), these are record high numbers never before seen by SEF, “a new reality and we must find solutions”.

To mitigate the chaos at Lisbon airport, a plan to increase staff in Lisbon by over 100 people is underway by July 4. 49 members of staff will be added to the Porto airport and 45 to Faro airport. Ana Vieira also said on Monday that more e-gates will soon be available for passengers from Canada and the United States to relieve pressure at arrivals.

Waiting times for those without EU documents are likely to remain long throughout the summer, particularly until the end of July. 

Cost of Living in Madeira: Funchal Monthly Budget

Lara Silva
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Cost of Living in Madeira: Funchal Monthly Budget

With both rent and restaurant prices being around 25% cheaper than in Lisbon, Funchal allows you to live your island dream without paying the more expensive prices of mainland Portugal. Whether you’re looking for a temporary home as a digital nomad or looking to settle down with the whole family, the sixth-largest city in Portugal has so much to offer. From views of the Atlantic ocean to green forests and mountainous cliffs, Funchal, on the island of Madeira is an expat’s dream. If you’re considering Funchal as a permanent or temporary home, let’s take a look at the average monthly budget in Funchal for expats without children, families, and digital nomads.

Guide to Funchal

Cost of Living in Funchal for an Expat – Less than €1100

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.

Guide to Renting an Apartment in Madeira

Health care could add to your monthly budget in Funchal. 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, no-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.

Cost of Living in Funchal for a Digital Nomad – €965+

The monthly budget for a digital nomad starts at €965, making it slightly cheaper than Porto and Lisbon. Although co-working spaces are less common than in Porto and Lisbon, you can still find a few starting at €120. Accommodation prices are generally the time, with beds in a hostel room starting at €15 a night and private rooms starting at €40 a night. However, if you are looking for a private Airbnb, they are more affordable in Funchal starting at €1,200 a month. A transportation pass for a month costs around €35 and you should budget at least €200 a month for exploring the island and discovering the cuisine and nightlife. If you decide to cook rather than eat out, you will only need around €40 a week for groceries. If you prefer eating out 3x a day, budget at least €8 per meal so around €720 a month.

Cost of Living in Funchal for a Family of Four – €2380+

The monthly budget for a family of four in Funchal is a lot more affordable than in Lisbon and Porto, particularly due to the private school prices. While you can choose to put your children in a Portuguese public school for free, if you are looking for an English-speaking and international environment, private international schools in Funchal are not as expensive as in mainland Portugal with prices starting at €3,000 a year.

Best International Schools in Portugal

A three-bedroom apartment costs around €1160 a month, but prices can go up to €1400. For transportation, if you choose to purchase monthly passes for your family, this will cost around €140. If it is more convenient to drive instead, fuel can cost anywhere between €150 and €250 a month depending on your consumption and vehicle. Budget at least €450 a month for eating out with the family and leisure activities such as going to the cinema and museums. Basic utilities should cost around €130 a month, including cable TV and phone data. A weekly grocery shop will cost anywhere between €125 and €150 a week if you know the best spots to shop.

For health care, 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, no-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, your whole family will have to have private health insurance to cover medical care which costs around €50 per person a month.

A monthly budget for a family of four can be anywhere from €2,380 (or less if you reduce leisure activities) to over €5,000.

PM Antonio Costa to meet with Boris Johnson on Monday

Lara Silva
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PM Antonio Costa to meet with Boris Johnson on Monday

The Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa will be meeting Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday in London. The two politicians will close a political deal that regulates relations between the two countries post-Brexit.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Joao Gomes Cravinho said that “an agreement between the two countries is being prepared, focused on the areas of defense, external politics, science, higher education, and climate change, particularly in relation to the ocean”. 

On Saturday, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was present at the Portuguese Embassy in London. When asked about Portugal and the United Kingdom closing a bilateral deal on commercial relations, the President of Portugal said this was possible. He said that such a deal “was already being prepared by the last government under the same Prime Minister. If it does not go against the European Union, each member state is free to build bilateral relations”. 

While the two countries’ commercial relations are predominantly regulated by the Brexit agreement, these can be specified by the two Prime Ministers if they respect the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union.

Antonio Costa’s meeting with Boris Johnson at 10 Downing Street is foreseen to take place at 1 pm on Monday.

The Portuguese Prime Minister had to cancel his schedule last week for health reasons, leading him to miss the celebrations of the Day of Portugal. He is now ready to resume his schedule.

Fun fact: the Anglo-Portuguese alliance is the oldest alliance in history. The alliance was ratified at the Treaty of Windsor in 1386 between the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Portugal. Historically, the two kingdoms, as well as the modern Portuguese Republic and the United Kingdom have never fought a war against each other and have never participated in a war on opposite sides, since signing the treaty.

How to Get Portuguese Citizenship

Lara Silva
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How to Get Portuguese Citizenship

Under the Passport Power Rank, Portugal ranks number 3 for being the most powerful passport, along with other countries such as Switzerland and Belgium. For many around the world, obtaining Portuguese citizenship is a privilege that allows passport holders the ability to travel and live freely across European Union countries. Portugal’s citizenship scheme is an attractive one, allowing for dual citizenship and having minimal residency requirements where citizens can live anywhere in the world without ever losing their citizenship. Portuguese citizenship also allows you the right to vote and hold the rights of any other Portuguese. If you are looking to obtain Portuguese citizenship, this guide has everything you need to know about becoming a citizen in Portugal.

How to Get Portuguese Citizenship

1. Descent or Birth

You can acquire Portuguese citizenship if you are a child:

  • of a Portuguese parent born in a Portuguese territory
  • of a Portuguese parent born abroad if the parent is there serving the Portuguese state
  • of a Portuguese mother or father born abroad if their birth was registered at the Portuguese civil registry or alternatively if they declare they want to be Portuguese
  • who was born in Portuguese territory to foreign parents if at least one parent was born in Portugal and resides in Portugal at the time of birth
  • that was born in Portuguese territory to foreign parents if they declare they want to be Portuguese and if one parent has resided in Portugal for at least 5 years at the time of birth
  • born in Portuguese territory that does not have another nationality
  • born in Portuguese territory or abroad to a parent who got Portuguese nationality after the birth of the child
  • with at least one grandparent of Portuguese nationality who is sufficiently familiar with the Portuguese language
  • born in Portuguese territory to foreign parents if the child has lived in Portugal for 10 years

2. Naturalization After 6 Years of Residence

Those who have lived in Portugal for six years can apply for Portuguese citizenship if they pass a Portuguese language test and have not been convicted of a crime punishable in Portugal with a prison sentence of 3 years or more.

There are a few ways to obtain naturalization as a Portuguese citizen as a non-EU individual. As you will need to reside in Portugal for at least 6 years to be eligible for citizenship, you will need to apply for a visa. You can either obtain citizenship through an investment visa, the Portugal Golden Visa, or opt for the D7 or D2 Visa. However, if you are a member of the EU, you can legally reside in Portugal without a visa and obtain citizenship after 6 years.

Citizenship through Investment: Portugal Golden Visa

Created in 2012, the Portugal Golden Visa is known as one of the most attractive in the world. The Portugal Golden Visa was created to boost foreign investment to benefit the Portuguese economy. There are five types of investments you can make to qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa: a real estate acquisition, an investment fund, a capital transfer, job creation, or making a donation. Let’s take a look at the types of investments:

  • Property Investment: Most people think you need to purchase property that costs at least €500,000 in Portugal to get a Golden Visa. However, you can spend less. If you purchase real estate in a low-density area in Portugal, the minimum to spend is €400,000. You can also buy real estate that is over 30 years old in an urban rehabilitation area and renovate it for at least €350,000. However, since January 2022, you cannot purchase real estate in Lisbon, Porto, and coastal towns. Only properties in Azores and Madeira, as well as interior territories, are now eligible for the Portuguese Golden Visa as these are low-density areas.
  • Investment Fund: Spend a minimum of €500,000 subscription in a qualifying Portuguese investment fund. In Portugal, these are known as fundos de capital de risco and are investment funds that support Portuguese businesses.
  • Capital Transfer: The most expensive option to qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa is making a capital transfer of a minimum of €1.5 million to Portugal. You must have proof of bank transfer deposits to Portugal from an international account that adds up to at least this amount.
  • Job Creation: There are two main investment options in this category. The first option is to create a minimum of ten new full-time jobs in a Portuguese business that you own. You do not need to invest a certain amount here. The second option has two requirements. First, you invest a minimum of €500,000 in an existing Portuguese business. Second, that business must create a minimum of five new full-time jobs within three years.
  • Donation: You can either invest a minimum of €250,000 in preserving national heritage or €500,000 in a research and development activity in Portugal.

Guide to the Portugal Golden Visa

Citizenship through D7 Visa

Also known as the Retirement or Passive Income Visa, the D7 Visa is a long-term residency visa that was introduced in 2007 and unlike the Portugal Golden Visa requires no investment. Along with retirees, this visa is suitable for some remote workers and digital nomads. This visa is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want residence in Portugal and have a reasonable passive income. This income can be from a retirement pension, as well as a financial investment, real estate, and salary.

The minimum passive income required is €8,460 per year for the main applicant. For a spouse, you must add 50% to this (€4,230) and for a dependent child, you must add 30% to this (€2,538). Therefore, for a couple with one child, you would need around €15,300 a year to be eligible for the D7 Visa.

There are other requirements including a clean criminal record, proof of residence address in Portugal (rental or purchase), and you must spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first 2 years of your residence.

Guide to the D7 Visa

Citizenship through D2 Visa

The Portugal D2 Visa allows entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers to reside in Portugal. This visa only applies to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who wish to start a business or relocate their existing business to Portugal. You can also choose to invest in an existing business in Portugal.

To be eligible, you must show that you either have set up a company operating in Portuguese territory or that you have the financial resources in Portugal that demonstrate you can set up a company in Portugal. You can obtain these financial resources through a proof of loan from a Portuguese bank. There is no official amount that you need, but the recommended amount is at least €5,000. You will also need to show that you have enough money to sustain yourself. For yourself as the main applicant, you must have 100% of the minimum salary which is €8,460 per year. For a spouse, you must add 50% to this (€4,230) and for a dependent child, you must add 30% to this (€2,538). Therefore, for a couple with one child, you would need around €15,300 a year to be eligible for the D2 visa.

Guide to the D2 Visa

3. Marriage & Adoption

After three years of marriage or cohabitation with a Portuguese citizen, you can acquire Portuguese citizenship without having to reside in Portugal. Your citizenship will not be revoked if you get divorced. If you are not married but have lived with your partner for more than two years and can prove so, you are also eligible as your relationship is considered a de facto union.

However, you cannot obtain Portuguese citizenship if you are serving another country on non-mandatory military service or if you exercise any non-strictly technical public position in another country.

Moreover, if you adopt a child from abroad that is under the age of 18 they can apply for citizenship immediately.

4. Acquisition by Descendants of Sephardic Jews

Under the Jewish Law of Return, the Portuguese government grants Portuguese citizenship through naturalization to the descendants of Portuguese Sephardic Jews who were expelled from Portugal during the Portuguese Inquisition. By January 2022, there were over 50,000 cases granted, with around 80,000 pending. Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich got Portuguese citizenship through this law.

5. Former Portuguese Territories

Citizens of former Portuguese colonies who were born during the period of Portuguese rule are entitled to Portuguese citizenship. This includes Angola, Cape Verde, Portuguese India, Guinea Bissau, East Timor, Macao, Mozambique, and Sao Tome and Principe. Citizens from Portuguese India and Macao who descend from those under the period of Portuguese colonialism are also eligible for citizenship.

Applying for Portuguese Citizenship

You can apply for Portuguese citizenship in a Portuguese consulate in your country of residence or in Portugal in the following places:

  • The desk at the Institute of Registries and Notaries at the National Center for Support to the Integration of Migrants (CNAIM) in Lisbon and Porto.
  • In Lisbon Registration Spaces.
  • In the Citizen Shop of Odivelas.
  • In the Civil Registry.

The documents necessary will depend on your path to citizenship and will differ if you choose to go the visa route. However, these are the documents necessary for Portuguese citizenship through naturalization:

  • Passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Proof of knowledge of Portuguese language (A2 level)
  • Details of residence permit
  • Date and place of birth, occupation, current residence, and list of countries you have resided in
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Document issued by SEF proving legal residence for at least 6 years

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Portuguese Citizenship

Can you buy Portuguese citizenship?

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can technically purchase Portuguese citizenship through the Portugal Golden Visa. This visa allows you to make an investment in Portugal and be eligible for citizenship after six years of residence. There are five types of investments you can make to qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa: a real estate acquisition, an investment fund, a capital transfer, job creation, or making a donation. Take a look at our guide to the Portugal Golden Visa.

How long does it take to get Portuguese citizenship?

Citizenship is available after six years of residence or three years if you are claiming citizenship by marriage.

Is dual citizenship allowed in Portugal?

Portugal allows dual citizenship so Portuguese citizens that acquire foreign citizenship do not lose their Portuguese citizenship and vice versa.

How much does it cost to apply for citizenship in Portugal?

The costs of citizenship through naturalization are around €175 to €200.

Euthanasia proposal approved in Portugal

Lara Silva
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Euthanasia proposal approved in Portugal

Proposals to decriminalize euthanasia passed in the Portuguese parliament on Thursday, for the third time in two years. 128 members of parliament voted in favor of the proposal by the Socialist Party (PS), while 88 voted against it.

Four parties in total presented a proposal, the Socialist Party (PS), the Left Bloc (BE), People Animals Nature (PAN), and the Liberal Initiative (IL), while the PS proposal was the most voted. The four proposals are quite similar and will be worked on in the Commission of Constitutional Issues, with the final global vote being set for July. 

Chega’s proposal for a referendum that would allow the people of Portugal to make the decision on euthanasia was rejected.

The leader of PSD was not present as he was in South Africa, despite being in favor of the decriminalization of euthanasia and against a referendum. The leader of Chega, Andre Ventura, reminded those present that the newly elected leader of the PSD, Luis Montenegro has opposing views, being against the euthanasia proposal and in favor of a referendum.

Only six members of parliament for the PSD voted in favor of euthanasia, but PS has said that PSD will be involved in the process. Although Chega’s referendum was not approved, 61 members of parliament for PSD voted in favor of it.

In November of 2021, a euthanasia proposal was approved with 138 voted in favor, but was later vetoed by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. 

While the voting was going on, hundreds protested in front of the parliament calling euthanasia “legal genocide”. The protest was promoted by the Portuguese Federation for Life, an organization that is also against abortion. 

The results of the proposal do not mean that euthanasia is now decriminalized in Portugal. Just like in November, the president of Portugal can still veto the proposal, as well as the Supreme Court. However, the four parties that submitted their euthanasia proposals tried to surpass the issues the president found in older proposals. Even if a veto does not occur, it will take time to change the law in Portugal.

Euthanasia is the practice of intentionally ending someone’s life to relieve pain and suffering. Globally, the practice of euthanasia is legal in seven countries: Belgium, Luxembourg, Canada, New Zealand, Spain, the Netherlands, and Colombia.

Henry the Navigator

Goncalo Costa
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Henry the Navigator

Henrique of Portugal, the Duke of Viseu, and Lord of Covilhã, better known as Prince Henry the Navigator or ‘The Prince of Sagres’ was a Portuguese prince who is known for his work sponsoring several maritime explorations that ended up kickstarting what would be known as the Age of Discoveries.

He was the 4th child of King John I, the founder of the new Portuguese dynasty, the House of Avis, and was also known for having encouraged his father to conquer the North African city of Ceuta, having played a big role in the actual conquest.

Prince Henry helped with the creation of the caravel, a sailing ship that was a huge advancement and allowed for the exploration of the open sea. With the caravel, the Portuguese could explore new routes, such as the Saharan trade routes which he helped “discover”, as well as the whole of the African continent. However, this, unfortunately, became the stepping stone for the enslavement of African peoples and the creation of the Atlantic slave trade.

Even though he is known, especially in English, as ‘the Navigator’, this is inaccurate, since he never went on a voyage himself, he only sponsored them and helped with the design of new ships, maps, and navigational instruments.

However, it was the same voyages that he sponsored that ended up discovering places like the Madeira Islands and getting to know the African West Coast.

His work was known all over Europe, with the Italian scholar Poggio Bracciolini having written a letter to the Navigator where he compares his deeds to those of Alexander the Great and Julius Cesar.

He is a huge figure in the history of Portugal and the World, but a character that is not often portrayed for his flaws and absolved of the atrocities committed.

Early Life of Prince Henry The Navigator

Prince Henry (not the British one though) was the third surviving son of John I of Portugal and Lady Philippa of Lancaster (Filipa de Lencastre in Portuguese). He was born in 1394, probably in Porto or nearby, on Ash Wednesday, a day that was considered unfortunate for a kid to be born.

It’s thought that the name Henry (Henrique in Portuguese) was given to him in honor of his uncle from his mother’s side, the Duke Henry of Lancaster, which would become King Henry IV of England.

Not a lot is known about the Prince’s life until he became 14. Only that he and his brothers were tutored by a knight of the Order of Avis, the knight order from which King John I came from.

Conquest of Ceuta

In 1414, when he was 21, he convinced his father to launch a campaign to conquer the city of Ceuta, on the northern Moroccan coast near the strait of Gibraltar. In 1415, this finally happened and Henry, together with his father and his brothers, commanded the Portuguese forces. The conquest assured Portuguese control over the maritime trade routes between the Atlantic and the Middle East and served as a place for counterattacking the settlements on the coast that served as a haven for pirates who were pillaging the Portuguese coast. For this, he became a knight and got the title of Lord of Covilhã and Duke of Viseu. Later, in 1419, he was appointed governor of the Algarve, and in 1420 he was also appointed by the Pope as the administrator of the Order of Christ, which was born out of the Knights Templar.

Innovations and Exploration

After this conquest, he moved to Lagos where he managed expeditions into the Atlantic Ocean, surrounding himself with specialists from all over Europe. This was possible due to his royal connections and the money he got from his monopoly on the manufacture of soap.

He decided to send the explorers to the coast of Africa, mostly unknown to Europeans. His goals were to find the source of the West African gold that was arriving in Europe through trade and to discover the legendary Christian kingdom of Prester John.

To do this, the scientists on his command designed a much lighter ship (compared to the heavy ones used at the time in the Mediterranean) that could sail bigger distances and faster. It was named the ‘caravel’ and became the main ship for the Portuguese. This ship was very maneuverable and could even sail against the wind.

However, Prince Henry struggled to access West African gold as West Africans held control of local gold deposits. To keep funding his expeditions, he found a more horrific resource: enslaved people. The Portuguese raided settlements on the island of Arguin and enslaved locals who were kidnapped back to Lisbon by force.

With the new lighter ships, the Atlantic islands of Madeira and Azores were rediscovered (this because they were already known to exist since they appeared in 14th-century maps) and Henry became in charge of exploring and populating them. With this, came the enslavement of Africans on sugar plantations in Madeira in the 1450s, a plantation slavery system that was then repeated in other Portuguese colonies.

Later Life and Death of Prince Henry The Navigator

The Prince was known to be a devout Christian. He was a celibate, not having fathered any children, and always wore a hair shirt. Henry lived a life following the knight code, always dedicated to exploration, the fight against Muslims, and expanding the Portuguese Empire. However, he was known to love extravagant parties, as well as a life of luxury.

After the death of his brother, King Duarte, he became Regent together with his brother Peter, since the king, Afonso V, his nephew, was still too young. Later, Peter and King Afonso V had a conflict that ended in the Battle of Alfarrobeira. In 1460. Henry ended up dying there fighting for the King against his own brother.

He was given an impressive tomb in the Batalha Monastery, not living to see the extent that the Portuguese Empire reached with the help of his feats.

Origin of the “Navigator” nickname

The “Navigator” nickname was never used in the Prince’s lifetime or even in the following 300 years. Actually, only in the 19th century did it start being used, with the German historians Heinrich Schaefer and Gustave de Veer being the ones to coin it. Later, Henry Major and Raymond Beazley, British authors, made it popular in their biographies of Prince Henry.

Nowadays, in Portuguese, it’s still not usually called by that nickname. The most used name is “Infante D. Henrique”.

Misconceptions about Prince Henry

During his lifetime, the Prince was not considered the scholar he is viewed as today, only starting to be viewed like this later on by the historians João de Barros and Damião de Góis.

The famous “Sagres school” is also questionable and never have been proven to exist. This school was allegedly created by Prince Henry to teach navigators about category, geography, and astronomy. Despite being mentioned by Damião de Góis, Samuel Purchas, and Antoine Prévost, all that is known is that the nearby port of Lagos was where many expeditions departed.

In an 1824 book by Dr. J.B. Von Spix and Dr. C.F.P. Von Martius it was also said that the introduction of sugar cane to Brazil was made by “the Infant Don Henrique Navegador”. This would be impossible since the Prince was dead before the discovery of Brazil.

However, some of these myths stayed (especially the Sagres school one) since the figure of the Navigator became a Portuguese symbol of the Discoveries, exploration, and science. This reached its highest in the 19th century in Portugal and continued throughout the 20th century, being used by the Estado Novo regime and throughout the Portuguese Colonial War.

The Legacy of Prince Henry The Navigator

With his investments and dedication, many new maritime inventions were discovered, of which the caravel would be the most detrimental. All of these scientific advancements were of the utmost importance in human history and the advancement of maritime trade and would give rise to other new advancements. In this way, the Prince’s legacy is one of scientific progress.

However, Prince Henry, the Navigator would be remembered as the founding father of Portugal’s maritime empire, and as such his legacy is that of the Portuguese Empire, one of exploitation, genocide, and slavery. The prince had a hand in designing the Portuguese Colonial Empire, enslaving people in West Africa, and bringing them to Portugal. His legacy is one of colonization that sparked some of society’s largest atrocities, from violence against indigenous peoples and the loss of culture and religion. However, to the nationalist sectors of the population, particularly during the Estado Novo, he remained a figure to admire that represented the courage and strength of the Portuguese people.

We can see this in one of the most famous monuments in Lisbon, the Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos). Here, the Prince is shown leading historical figures, emphasizing his historical role as the father of the Discoveries. The monument, made by the Estado Novo regime to celebrate the Empire and inaugurated on the 500 year birthday of the Prince, also features the writing “AO INFANTE D. HENRIQVE E AOS PORTVGVESES QVE DESCOBRIRAM OS CAMINHOS DO MAR” (To Prince Henry and the Portuguese that Discovered the Roads of the Sea).

He is also remembered in the Saint Vincent Panels, a very important work of art painted by Nuno Gonçalves, a Portuguese painter active from 1450 to 1471. Besides this, he is mentioned in many other historical books, such as “Crónica da Guiné” by Zurara, right now conserved in the Library of Paris.

Despite Prince Henry marking Portugal’s role in world history with the development of the caravel and maritime technology, the fact that his colonization efforts led to centuries of atrocities and violence is too often forgotten.

Monkeypox Portugal: Monkeypox cases rise to over 200

Lara Silva
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Monkeypox Portugal: Monkeypox cases rise to over 200

In the last week, the number of monkeypox cases in Portugal has almost doubled to 209 cases, mostly in Lisbon and the region of Vale do Tejo, with some cases reported in the north of Portugal and the Algarve.

All the confirmed cases of monkeypox in Portugal have been detected in men between the ages of 19 and 61 years old, with most being under 40. 

The Directorate‑General of Health of Portugal (DGS) has said that “the cases identified remain under clinical follow-up and are stable”. 

One case has been reported in a prison in Porto on Thursday and seven inmates are being monitored. 

It is unclear whether citizens will be vaccinated against monkeypox anytime soon in Portugal. However, in Germany, it was announced on Thursday that those over 18 years old exposed to monkeypox or with a higher risk of infection will be vaccinated with Imvanex, from Bavarian Nordic. 

Those with suspected symptoms should avoid “physical contact with other people and sharing clothes, towels, sheets, and personal objects while having lesions or other symptoms”, according to the DGS. Monkeypox is contagious and can be transmitted through a wound, the respiratory tract, or the eyes, nose, or mouth. 

Ginjinha

Goncalo Costa
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Ginjinha

Undoubtedly one of the most famous Portuguese liquors, known and loved all over Portugal, Ginjinha is starting to gain international notoriety. Ginjinha or just Ginja, is a liquor made out of Ginja berries, also known in English as sour cherry or by its scientific name Prunus cerasus. In this article, we’ll refer to “Ginja” as the fruit and “Ginjinha” as the drink, even though Ginja can be both.

Ginjinha is made by infusing the sour cherries in alcohol (aguardiente, loosely translated as firewater, a very strong spirit) and adding sugar as well as other ingredients. This produces a rich ruby-red drink that can be enjoyed as both an aperitif and digestif. It’s served in a shot form, sometimes in a chocolate glass or with a sour cherry on the cup.

The recipe for ginjinha is still a secret, but many people try to make their own, especially in the communities where it’s most famous, such as Lisbon, Óbidos, Alcobaça, Covilhã, Marvão, and the Algarve. The Serra da Estrela ginja, the one popular in Covilhã, is a protected designation of origin.

The production of these liquors made from fruits is thought to go back to ancient times when these were thought to be medicinal and to cure many diseases. Today, it’s simply appreciated for its good taste!

History of Ginjinha

It’s hard to know exactly where the Ginja cherries were born. It is thought that they came from Asia Minor, near the Caspian Sea. They spread to Portugal through commercial routes, such as the Silk Road, that connected this area to Europe. Soon, this fleshy cherry became available in the Mediterranean areas.

In the 1st century, Pliny the Elder, a very well-known Roman naturalist, writer, and natural philosopher, praised the Lusitanian Ginjas (Lusitania being roughly the area that now Portugal occupies).

As to how the liquor was born, is also a mystery, with each place having its own story. However, what is mostly accepted is that it came from ancient practices of mixing fruits with alcohol, as said earlier, having been perfected by the various religious orders.

The drink became a success and Ginjinha became a typical drink in the country!

Both Alcobaça and Óbidos claim to have been the original place where the ginjas were grown, with Alcobaça locals even saying that they were the ones that taught the people from Óbidos how to farm it. This is because both cities are known to have the best Ginjinhas, since they are very specific. Their microclimates create the best wild Ginjas in Europe, which is why they’ve applied for a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication, or ‘Indicação Geográfica Protegida’ in Portuguese) status in 2013.

The truth is, Óbidos became the most well-known and now, it’s an ex libris of the famous walled city! It was here that the idea of serving Ginjinha in an edible chocolate cup was born, making it even more known than the other Ginjinhas.

Nowadays, around 150.000 liters of Ginjinha are produced per year, with around 90% being consumed in Portugal and the rest being exported, mainly to the US.

Production of Ginjinha

The recipes change depending on the Ginja that we are talking about. The Alcobaça ginja has a different technique from the Óbidos ginja. However they all remain a secret of the producers, so we can only know a small part of these recipes. The Morello cherries are usually harvested around June. After this, they are mixed with several ingredients, such as water, cinnamon, and sugar (and possibly others). They are then left to infuse with aguardente for around 5 months.

Drinking Ginjinha: How to Drink Ginjinha

Ginjinha can be enjoyed at any time of the day, even in the morning! There is no cultural norm surrounding this. Usually, you will drink it in a small cup, like a shot glass, although you may be served one in a plastic cup. This is because most bars that serve it are very small and most people drink this liquor outside, so many bar owners lost their cups since people sometimes stole them as a souvenir. It usually costs around 1 euro (maximum 2) in Lisbon, so it’s as dangerously cheap as it is tasty.

However, as said previously, if you go to Óbidos there is a great chance that you will be served in an edible chocolate cup, as is traditional in this city. Nowadays, it’s starting to be done in other places too, like in Lisbon, due to the popularity that the chocolate cup has reached.

When you are ordering a Ginjinha, the seller will probably ask you “Com elas ou sem elas?”, meaning “With them or without them?”. This is regarding the Ginja cherry, if you want the drink with the cherry inside or not. It’s traditionally served with the cherry since it’s fun to suck on the cherry afterward, but no one will judge you if you don’t want it!

These days there have been many reinventions of the Ginjinha, with many cocktails and other drinks having been made using the liquor. Ginjinha da Sé, in Alfama, Lisbon is known to produce many of these, such as a ginja-mojito or ginja tonic.

Ginjinha de Alcobaça

In Alcobaça, the Ginjinha is said to have come from the Cistercian Monks, who had a famous monastery there since the 12th century. Until today it’s still produced using only natural ingredients. It has a ruby color with a strong taste of cherry.

Book Tours & Activities in Alcobaça

Ginjinha de Óbidos

In Óbidos, the story goes that it came from ancient religious orders, in the 17th century, but it was the various family-owned businesses competing to get the title of “the” Ginjinha de Óbidos that have perfected the recipes.

After the priests discovered and sold it to the Óbidos locals, they started to produce it themselves and present it to their guests, especially the most renowned ones.

Then, the first bar that served Ginjinha opened when the city became a tourist known spot, by a known storyteller from the city named Montez. The drink then became known to outsiders and tourists and more bars started to open. This made the competition grow inside the walled city for the best Ginjinha, making it either more or less alcoholic or more or less sweet.

Book Tours & Activities in Obidos

And today we have our beloved Ginjinha de Óbidos! The production starts on the farms. After being harvested, a maceration process happens that takes at least one year and produces a completely natural liquor.

This liquor is very strong in flavor and of a very dark red color. There are 2 varieties: the ‘simple’ liquor and the flavored with vanilla and a cinnamon stick. And of course, in Óbidos, you can’t forget the chocolate cup.

Obidos. Photo by Reiseuhu (Unsplash)

Guide to Óbidos

Ginjinha de Lisboa

In Lisbon, the legend stands that the drink was discovered by a Galician friar, who stayed in the Church of Santo António of Lisbon, named Francisco Espinheira. He experimented with leaving the sour cherries in aguardente, adding sugar, water, and cinnamon, and created this wonderful drink!

Book Tours & Activities in Lisbon

The Ginjinha da Praça de São Domingos in Lisbon is known to be the first store in the city to sell this drink, and it became a huge success. Nowadays, it’s a must drink when you visit Lisbon, where you will find multiple bars dedicated solely to it.

Torre de Belem, Lisbon. Photo by Bernardo Lorena Ponte (Unsplash)

Guide to Lisbon

Ginjinha da Serra da Estrela

Ginjinha from Serra da Estrela is made from the maceration and infusion of the sour cherries planted in Cova da Beira in cereal distillate. This Ginja has a wonderful balance between the sweetness of the liquor itself and the natural sour touch of the ginja cherry.

Book Tours & Activities in Serra da Estrela

As said before, it’s a protected designation of origin. So if you’re ever in that area of Portugal, remember to have your glass of Ginjinha. This little shot-like drink is sure to leave you with a wonderful taste of Portuguese culture. Being a liquor usually drunk in the community, savor it and share it with your friends or with the locals, who will surely love to drink one with you!

Serra da Estrela. Photo by Ricardo Rocha (Unsplash)

Guide to Serra da Estrela

You can also find it in different parts of the country, especially in more touristic and bigger cities, like Porto, due to the popularity of the drink in the country and because it’s just starting to be discovered by the tourists and foreigners.

So, cheers! Or as it’s usually said in Portugal: Saúde!

20 Best Beaches in Portugal

Lara Silva
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20 Best Beaches in Portugal

With more than 300 days of sun a year and over 1500 kilometers of Atlantic ocean coastline, Portugal has countless golden sand beaches, some of the best beaches in the world. From calm clear waters and sheltered bays, as well as large beaches with large waves perfect to surf, Portugal has a beach for everyone. Wherever you are along the coastline of Portugal, we have selected the 20 best beaches throughout mainland Portugal, as well as the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores so that you can enjoy a wonderful beach day. Summer is coming up so get your bathing suit ready and keep this list handy to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal!

1. Praia do Almograve, Alentejo

Located in the quaint village of Almograve, Praia do Almograve is a long golden sand beach along the Sudoeste Alentejano and Costa Vicentina Natural Park. One of the best beaches in Alentejo, Almograve features the Sardao Cape to the South, offering views of the coastline and inaccessible and natural beaches. A beach that is never filled with tourists, Praia do Almograve is one of the best beaches in all of Portugal, providing the perfect balance between a large beach with stunning waves and a calm environment. 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)

Guide to the Alentejo

2. Praia de Moledo, Caminha

Located in Northern Portugal, Praia de Moledo in Caminha has been a popular beach since the 20th century, having been frequented by politicians and families of the Portuguese elite. While many head to the south of Portugal in the summer, Caminha’s beach is not second-best but rather less crowded by tourists, making it one of the best beaches for those looking to run from the crowds. With optimal conditions for watersports such as surf, bodyboard, and windsurf, as well as its therapeutic features such as the high amount of iodine, Praia de Moledo does not disappoint. In front of the beach on an island only accessible by boat, you can find the Insua Fort, built in the 17th century.

Photo by Turismo En Portugal (Flickr)

Guide to Northern Portugal

3. Praia da Aguda, Sintra

Praia da Aguda is located close to Praia Grande in Sintra and is one of the most beautiful beaches in Lisbon that is less known to tourists. Around a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, take a snap of the ocean and the cliffs before you head down to the beach. To get to the sand, you need to go down a 230-step staircase down a cliff which introduces you to the stunning blue ocean views. The way back up is a bit of a workout so this is not the right beach for those with limited mobility. Praia da Aguda is also listed as an unofficial nude beach by the Portuguese Naturist Federation so expect to see the occasional nudist.

Guide to Naturist & Nudist Beaches in Portugal

Photo by Sofia de Castro Fernandas IG @asnove

4. Praia do Alvor, Algarve

Praia do Alvor is one of the most well-known beaches in the region of the Algarve in the south of Portugal. The beach is composed of fine white sand and stretches over 3.5 kilometers, featuring a long boardwalk that guides to gorgeous dunes and the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. You can find a beautiful lagoon behind the beach, formed by the river of Alvor where you can enjoy some windsurfing, kayaking, and more. The beach is located in Alvor, a historic fishing village that has now been modernized with hotel complexes and lively bars. You will also find several restaurants close to the beach, as well as bathrooms, showers, and a lifeguard station.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

Guide to the Algarve

5. Praia de Troia-Mar, Troia

Praia de Troia-Mar is located in the peninsula of Troia and is one of the only beaches in Portugal that most resembles a tropical getaway. This beach offers a gorgeous view of the Serra da Arrabida, has clear waters, and white sand like a tropical oasis. Praia de Troia-Mar is one of the best beaches to spot dolphins and the water temperature is much warmer than in other parts of the country at around 19.5°C in the summer. You can also enjoy some windsurfing, beach volleyball, and football in the designated areas. 

Photo by Raquel IG @Sempalavras.pt

6. Praia da Franquia, Alentejo

Located in Vila Nova de Milfontes in the Alentejo, Praia da Franquia is one of the most sheltered beaches in the area, making it popular for canoeing, paddle, 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)

7. Praia do Barril, Algarve

If you are planning on visiting the city of Tavira in the Algarve, you cannot miss Praia do Barril. The beach features a wooden path over golden sand which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Due to the large size of the beach, you will rarely feel like it’s too busy, despite its popularity. Praia do Barril features over 100 rusting anchors in the sand, presented in rows known as the “Anchor Cemetary” to represent the remains of the former tuna fishing village. The beach next to Praia do Barril is called Praia do Homem Nu and is a popular nudist beach in the Algarve, particularly with the LGBT+ community.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

Guide to Tavira

8. Praia da Comporta, Setubal

Comporta is a popular vacation town in Setubal for families all over the country, but particularly Lisbon locals due to its close proximity and incredible beaches. Praia da Comporta is part of the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, having its dune vegetation preserved, as well as the nearby pine forest. The 12-kilometer beach features high-quality facilities such as an extensive parking lot, public toilets with showers, and wheelchair ramps. The beach has optimal conditions for kite surfing as plenty of competitions are hosted here.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

9. Praia do Guincho, Cascais

If you know Cascais well, you know that the best beaches are not in the center, but rather around a 10-minute drive away. Praia do Guincho is by far the best beach on the Portuguese Riviera, boasting large Atlantic ocean waves known for surfing, even in the winter. The Guincho shoreline is around 1 kilometer, making it perfect for enjoyable walks on the beach. You can also enjoy some lunch and drinks at Bar do Guincho which has a beautiful view of the ocean and the cliffs. However, on this side of the bar, near the bar, the beach can get quite busy in the summer so we recommend parking your car near Estalagem Muchaxo and enjoying this side of the beach.

Photo by Manuel Inglez (Unsplash)

Guide to Cascais

10. Portinho da Arrabida, Setubal

Located in the Serra da Arrabida Natural Park in Setubal, Portinho Beach is a clear watered beach with white sands, as well as deep green hills. This beach features a bay that is suitable for diving and discovering marine life, while fishing is prohibited. Located in a former small fishing village, public transport is pretty much inexistent here which leads this beach to always be calm and never overcrowded. The beach features umbrellas to rent, as well as watercrafts and games. A 17th-century fort guards the beach which now hosts the Oceanographic Museum. You can also enjoy a Portuguese meal at the seafront restaurant called Beira Mar which serves quality seafood.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

11. Praia da Ursa, Sintra

Praia da Ursa is a “wild beach” in Sintra, meaning that there are no lifeguards on-site and the path to the beach is not an official one. This stunning beach is one of the best known in Sintra, but might not be suitable for families with small children due to the large waves, common in the Atlantic ocean. It is also not suitable for people with limited mobility as the path to the beach is also quite rough and can be unsafe, as you have to walk down a mountainous path that is not built for that purpose. However, the difficult walk is worth it. We recommend packing food and drinks, maybe even bringing a sun umbrella as there is no access to restaurants or cafes. This beach is rarely full and although it is not listed as a naturist beach, full nudity is common here.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

Guide to Sintra

12. Praia do Porto do Seixal, Madeira

One of the best beaches on the island of Madeira, Praia do Porto do Seixal is a black sand beach worthy of being displayed on a travel postcard. A small beach, it features huge cliffs with a large green mountain, as well as a relaxing waterfall, providing a beautiful contrast with the black sand. A 40-minute drive from Funchal, the best way to get to Praia do Porto do Seixal is to rent a car as you won’t be able to get here by bus.

Photo by Alice Kotlyarenko (Unsplash)

Guide to Madeira

13. Praia de Miramar, Vila Nova de Gaia

Praia de Miramar is located in Vila Nova de Gaia, around a 20-minute drive from Porto. Featuring turquoise waters and golden sand, this beach does not get intense waves and is safe for the whole family, as well as perfect to enjoy some paddle. The beach is surrounded by luxury homes, located close to one of the oldest golf courses in Portugal. Due to its location, it boasts incredible facilities including sun umbrellas available for rental, bathrooms, and a bar.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

14. Praia de Odeceixe, Algarve

Located in the municipality of Aljezur in the region of the Algarve, Praia de Odeceixe is known for its horseshoe pattern, as it is surrounded by the Ribeira de Seixe. The Ribeira de Seixe is a river that surrounds the 330-meter beach until it reaches the ocean. The contrast between the river and the ocean provides a beautiful image and allows visitors to choose where to bathe which is particularly useful when the waves are too strong. During low tide, many small lagoons appear in the sand, perfect for kids to play in. You will also find surf schools at the beach where you can rent a board or take some classes to get started.

Photo by Marlis Börger (Flickr)

15. Porto Santo Beach, Madeira

The best beaches in Madeira are often not located on the main island. Head to Porto Santo Beach, on an inhabited island of the archipelago to enjoy a day of sunbathing on this 9-kilometer-long golden beach. You can get to Porto Santo beach, around 40 kilometers away from the island, by booking this day trip from Funchal.  You will get to learn about the inhabited island in a small group of 15 people in a sightseeing minibus, as well as enjoy the beaches of the island. You can also take the official cruise to Porto Santo which costs €50 for a 2-hour trip.

Photo by Teresa Lopes IG @teresinhamarise

16. Praia da Foz do Lizandro, Ericeira

Located in Ericeira, a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, Praia da Foz do Lizandro is the largest beach in Mafra. The river Lizandro flows through this beach onto the ocean, providing a warmer alternative to those who do not wish to swim in the colder more volatile sea. This beach has various modern bars, restaurants, and even a surf shop for renting boards and booking surf classes. You can also rent out sunbeds and beach umbrellas.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

17. Praia do Meco, Sesimbra

Located in Sesimbra, Praia do Meco is a well-known 4-kilometer beach that today is an official naturist and nudist beach in Portugal (only a part of the beach is designated for tourism), probably the most famous in the country. Back in the 70s when it had no road access, this beach became known when American, Swedish, and Dutch hippies discovered it. Around two decades later, this beach had turned into a vacation spot for the Lisbon elite, such as politicians and intellectuals.

Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)

18. Praia do Magoito, Sintra

Located in the village of Magoito in Sintra, Praia do Magoito is a long golden sand beach with stunning waves that you must be careful with. Make sure to never go in the water when the “red flag” is up as this is extremely unsafe. The beach is mostly visited by locals from the village of Magoito and people that have lived in Sintra for a long time. You can enjoy a drink or a Portuguese lunch at the terrace restaurant at the entrance called Esplanada Duna Mar which has a hilltop view of the beach.

Photo by IA Photography (Flickr)

19. Praia do Areal de Santa Bárbara, São Miguel Azores

Located on the magical island of Sao Miguel in the archipelago of the Azores, Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara is a 1-kilometer beach featuring mountainous cliffs and black sand and rock. Along with offering a relaxing day at the beach, Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara has various surf and bodyboard boards for rental as the beach has great conditions for water sports. The beach has several infrastructures such as parking places, showers, bathrooms, and restaurants.

Guide to Sao Miguel

20. Praia da Fonte da Telha, Costa da Caparica

Costa da Caparica is a 26-kilometer coastline through the western side of the Setubal peninsula. The most famous beach area for the Lisbon locals who cross the 25 of April bridge for some sunbathing, the beaches here tend to have warmer weather than in Cascais or Sintra. One of the best beaches in Costa da Caparica is Praia da Fonte da Telha a long golden beach that has multiple restaurants and bars playing music at sunset. Alternatively, visit Praia da Mata or Praia do Rei, as well as many others which will not disappoint you.

Photo by Romain Cellier (Unsplash)
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