Despite its coastal plain, the Agueda municipality produces some spicy and sharp sparkling wines thanks to its soils and ocean-tempered climate. Visit cellars, such as Caves Primavera, to sample the local product.
The centre of Agueda comes alive during a spirited annual festival that lasts three weeks in July. Expect to see spontaneous performances and sensational art installations.
1. Visit the Igreja da Misericordia
Another must-see place in Aveiro is the Igreja da Misericordia, a small church that has one of the city’s most beautiful azulejo tile facades. It was designed by the same master who created Igreja dos Loios and is a gorgeous example of Portuguese Baroque.
Lagos is a quaint coastal town that’s known for its breathtaking sea views and unique rocky formations. It’s also a great base for exploring Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range. The area’s rugged high-country trails offer stupendous vistas and glimpses of a traditional way of life.
Hang out on wild Setubal beaches or go trekking through the wilderness at Peneda-Geres National Park. The massive coastline park offers 268 square miles of pristine nature that’s perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic walks.
2. Shop at the Mercado da Peixe
A trip to a local food market is one of the best ways to get acquainted with the culture of a country. While taking a Lisbon food tour is great, you can also experience this exciting part of Portuguese life at the Mercado da Ribeira.
You can find all kinds of culinary delights here, from Portuguese seafood to croquettes and pasta. There’s even a section for vegetarians. You can enjoy all of this in an environment that’s both cozy and lively.
You can’t leave Portugal without buying some of its famous gifts. Cork-based products are a popular choice, thanks to the fact that Portugal is one of the world’s largest producers of this material. Cork bags, wallets and hats are all available in a wide variety of designs.
3. Take a stroll through the Praca da Republica
Visiting this historic city and its awe-inspiring architecture is one of the best things to do in Portugal. It’s also a great day trip option from Lisbon as it is only 30 minutes away.
Another must-see place is the Punta de la Piedad coastal viewpoint which offers breathtaking views of the sea and otherworldly rock formations. It’s also a great spot to witness some of the oldest archaeological sites in Portugal.
Next up is Covilha – a charming town that was once revered for its wool and textile production. It is now home to quaint cobbled streets, fantastic seafood restaurants, and peaceful pensions. It is also home to the westernmost point of Europe – Cabo da Roca. It’s a must-see destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
4. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant
Throughout the country, local restaurants serve up traditional fare that celebrates Portugal’s seaside bounty. Look for bucho, which is a savoury rice and pork meat stew cooked inside the stomach of a pig (porco preto).
Portugal’s sun-soaked climate gifts its land with a cornucopia of naturally ripened fruit – luscious Madeiran bananas; oranges and almonds sourced from the Algarve; stripy red apples and pears grown on scorched plains near Palmela; ripe mangos from the Azores.
Go to a marisqueira, or seafood restaurant, for the best of the country’s seafood. A classic is arroz de marisco, which is similar to Spanish paella but packed with more fish – prawns, mussels and lobsters, and usually served in an impressive glass aquarium. You can also savour salt crust sea bass or slow-cooked wild boar in a rustic country tavern.
5. Enjoy a drink at a local bar
There are plenty of bars and casual lounges to enjoy a drink at in Aguim. If you’re looking for something stronger, try out a Portuguese liquor like Ginjinha. This traditional liqueur is made by infusing ginja berries (sour cherries, Prunus cerasus austera) in aguardente and adding sugar and spices, including cloves and cinnamon sticks. The result is a sweet and strong spirit, which is commonly enjoyed at the end of a meal.
Another great option is a cold beer. Portugal has some incredible breweries, so be sure to check them out! Another popular beverage is a glass of mineral water or sparkling water (called “aqua com gas”). This refreshing drink is perfect on a hot day. It comes in many different flavors, including peach, strawberry and mango.
