The small neighborhood of Pragal Portugal is a hidden gem for travelers who love the city life. You can easily reach this charming destination by taking the ferry from Cais do Sodre in Lisbon.
When you’re hungry, try local dishes like Bacalhau (salt cod) and grilled sardines. You can also indulge in a delicious dessert like Pastel de nata.
1. Visit the Cristo Rei statue
The Cristo Rei statue is a stunning landmark that overlooks Lisbon. Inspired by Rio’s famous Christ the Redeemer statue, it was built in 1959 as a way of thanking God for sparing Portugal from the horrors of World War II.
Visitors can take a ferry from Cais do Sodre to the inverse bank of the Tagus River in Cacilhas and then bus 101 to reach the monument. The experience of climbing up the lift and stairs to the top is uplifting, especially when you see Lisbon spread out beneath you and the 25 de Abril Bridge stretching out in front of you.
After visiting the statue, head to the Almada Forum to shop and grab a bite to eat. Alternatively, you can also visit the nearby beaches of Costa da Caparica to spend your day soaking up the sun and ocean breeze.
2. Explore the Convento dos Capuchos
The Convento do Capuchos is a fascinating piece of history that combines religion and nature. You can visit the church and explore the cloisters to get a sense of how monks lived here hundreds of years ago.
The cloisters are home to various architectural and decorative elements that showcase the simplicity of monk life. You can also see the bell courtyard, which features a gorgeous decorative porch room. The Convento do Capuchos has a very serene feel, which makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
The convent is located in a quiet neighborhood, so it’s best to take a taxi or bus to reach it from the city center. Alternatively, you can take the train to Almada and then catch a ferry from Cais do Sodre.
3. Take a stroll along the riverfront
Pragal is a great place to go for a stroll along the river. The area is dotted with historic landmarks and offers scenic views of the city. You can also visit the Cristo Rei statue, which is a smaller version of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro.
Those looking for an educational experience should head to the Jeronimos Monastery, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Tour the historical grounds and ponder the monastery’s homage to Portuguese culture and identity.
Then, explore the Parque da Paz, the city’s beloved park. This nature reserve is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as wide open spaces that offer opportunities for relaxation or sports. This is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
4. Visit the Almada Forum
The modern Almada Forum offers a wide selection of shops and restaurants. The building also features a movie theater and an ice skating rink. The complex is a great place to stop if you’re in need of some retail therapy or to meet up with friends for a meal.
This charming neighborhood is a short ferry ride from Lisbon, making it an ideal travel destination for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore the city without breaking the bank. The area is known for its stunning views of the Tagus River and its laid-back atmosphere. It’s also home to the historic Convento dos Capuchos, which now houses HI Almada – Pousada de Juventude hostel. The neighborhood is also home to numerous parks and green spaces.
5. Head to the beach
Pragal’s most dazzling feature is its gorgeous sandy beach. This 6km stretch of sand is framed by ocher-hued cliffs, making it one of Portugal’s most breathtaking beaches. It gets crowded in summer, but head here in low season (November to March) and you’ll find the whole beach to yourself.
Praia de Odeceixe is a scenic headland-backed beach that’s popular with surfers. Its sheltered bay makes it suitable for swimming, while the ocean side features rideable waves year-round. Various surf academies are nearby to teach you the ropes.
Pragal is a walkable neighborhood, but you can also explore the surrounding area by bus or ferry. The local bus system is easy to use and offers a range of routes. You can also take a ferry from Cais do Sodre in Lisbon to reach Pragal in around 20 minutes.
