There are many things to do in Cabeda Portugal and this charming beach town is a perfect day trip from Lisbon. The beach is popular with locals and the old town has quaint streets lined with restaurants.
The Jeronimos Monastery is another highlight of this area, but it gets very crowded. It’s best to go early or later in the day to avoid crowds.
1. Walk along the beach
The beach here is a bit quieter than the nearby and more popular Monte Gordo, making it a good spot for family vacations. Located behind the sand is a forest of pine trees, strawberry trees, curry plants, and paths that are popular for hiking or cycling.
You can walk here from the beach of Monte Gordo, or take a bus for over 15 minutes. If you’d rather ride, Comboios De Portugal offers a train that runs from Porto – Sao Bento to Cabeda hourly, or STCP has a bus that departs from Bolhao and takes around 30 minutes.
Stay at a large house in the area like “Soalheira Douro House”, with 4 bedrooms that sleep up to 8 guests and amenities including a pool. You’ll also find a great selection of apartments, perfect for couples or solo travellers.
2. Visit the National Tile Museum
The National Tile Museum, one of Lisbon’s more unusual attractions, showcases Portugal’s delicate ceramic tiles—known as azulejos. These artful works adorn homes and churches throughout the city, often depicting historical events or everyday life. The museum, housed in a former convent, is the only one of its kind and features a vast collection dating back to the 15th century.
The highlight is a 23m (75ft)-long panel that depicts Lisbon as it existed prior to the 1755 earthquake, featuring buildings that still stand today. The museum also has a cafe and gift shop. Visitors say the museum is worth a visit, even though it’s a bit off the beaten path. You can reach the museum with bus 794, which stops outside, or by taxi. Admission is free with the Lisboa Card.
3. Enjoy a Fado show
With its winding streets, intricate tile work and unforgettable colors, Lisbon by day is one of Europe’s most charming cities. But at night, the city takes on a different mood: one of passion and romance. And nothing encapsulates that spirit better than fado, a traditional music style so integral to Portugal that UNESCO has declared it an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
You’ll find fado shows everywhere in Lisbon, from small informal eateries called tascas to full-on restaurants. Many are accompanied by dinner, but there’s also a handful of options where the focus is solely on the performance.
Here are a few of our favorite places to see and hear a Fado show in Lisbon.
4. Take a boat tour
A great way to explore the Douro Valley is by boat. This is a relaxing tour that allows you to see the multiple vineyards on the riverside. Plus, the included phone app provides geo-localized commentary that makes it even more interesting.
Most tours from Lagos go either to the famous Ponta de Piedade or out east to Benagil Caves and dolphin watching. But there’s also a kayak tour that actually takes you out into all of the grottos that the cliffs around Lagos are known for.
Comboios De Portugal operates a train from Porto – Sao Bento to Cabeda hourly. Tickets cost $1 – $2 and the journey takes 19 min. Alternatively, STCP operates a bus from Bolhao to Cabeda every 15 minutes. Tickets cost $2 – $3 and the journey takes 30 min.
5. Visit Sintra
The mystical town of Sintra is a green mountainscape of palaces, country estates, and parks. From the enigmatic Quinta da Regaleira and its whimsical gardens, to the fairytale muddle of towers atop Pena Palace, this destination is sure to win your heart.
You can also trek through the forests of Pena Park to reach Cruz Alta, a sky-high spot that translates to “High Cross.” The site is home to an ornate twisted cross and offers some of the best views in all of Sintra.
Make sure you get there early so you can enjoy a stroll through the cobblestone streets without the crowds. Don’t leave without trying a Travesseiro, a local pastry that rivals Lisbon’s famed pastel de nata in terms of flavor and texture.
