Tempt your sweet tooth with the nation’s most famous pastéis de nata (egg custard tart). This place is so popular, long queues often snake out from its front door.
Explore 268 square miles of breathtaking nature in Portugal’s only official national park. Hike through wild Setubal beaches and atop mountainous vistas.
1. Visit the Livraria Lello Bookstore
The Livraria Lello Bookstore is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, renowned for its stunning Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture. It also claims to have inspired Harry Potter author JK Rowling, who spent 2 years in Porto and used it as a source of inspiration for her mythical series.
Founded by brothers Jose and Antonio Lello, the establishment was designed by Francisco Xavier Esteves in Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau style in 1906. It has since become a must-see for visitors to the city.
With that said, the place is incredibly popular and oftentimes feels more like a theme park than a quiet bookstore. To make the most of your visit, try to arrive early in the day or on a weekday over the weekend to avoid the long queues and get a chance to admire the detailed design at leisure.
2. Visit the Mercado da Ribeira
The Mercado da Ribeira is not to be missed by anyone who wants to experience the best of Portuguese culture. This market is more than a century old and has recently been transformed into a premier gourmet food hall. It’s a must-visit for any Lisbon resident or first-time visitor.
Once you’ve surveyed the stalls inside this canteen-style food hall, settle down at one of the large communal tables to enjoy your meal. The crowd here is a bit of an eclectic mix, ranging from older locals to young professionals and students.
The food here is quite good and the prices are even better. You’ll also find many stalls that offer drinks, including beer and cocktails. So grab a drink and soak up the ambience.
3. Visit the Museu da Bolsa
Whether you’re looking for some quiet time, or some awe-inspiring photo opportunities, this neoclassical Palace is the perfect place to visit. Take a guided tour of its opulent rooms, including the Arab Room, which is adorned with gold-leaf and inspired by Alhambra palaces.
Another top thing to do is visit the famous bookstore Livraria Lello, known for its gorgeous spiral staircase that JK Rowling took inspiration from in her Harry Potter books. This place gets swarming with people at times, so expect long queues to get in, but it’s well worth the wait!
Alternatively, head to the nearby 516 Arouca Bridge for some incredible views. You can also explore the beautiful gardens here, which are filled with flowers and places to hide from the sun!
4. Attend the Essencia do Vinho Wine Festival
For four tipsy days in February each year, the Palacio da Bolsa plays host to this wine event. It’s not only for wine producers, oenologists and experts but also total newbies and those looking to expand their knowledge of this tipple. It’s a great opportunity to sample the best port wine and learn how to pair it with different foods.
Other activities include workshops, talks, and commented tastings. The highlight is the election of the best 10 Portuguese wines. You can also watch the rabelos (wooden sail boats that once ferried port wine) race down the Douro River with their distinctive label names scrawled across the square sails.
The entrance to the festival is free and includes a glass of wine. Just show your ticket at each stand and request a taste.
5. Go to Noites Ritual
The gorgeous town of Obidos is one of the cutest things to do in Portugal – wander the cobbled streets and have your camera at the ready. This is also a great stop if you’re travelling between Lisbon and Porto, and a day trip here makes for a lovely addition to any self-drive itinerary.
Another must-visit is the beautiful and historic town of Braga, a key part of Portuguese national history thanks to its historical and religious grandeur. Here you can visit the incredible gothic Se de Braga Cathedral and the mighty Bom Jesus do Monte church.
The lush region of Douro is home to some super hiking trails, as well as stunning waterfalls and traditional villages – perfect for nature lovers. You can also explore the area by boat, and many companies offer dolphin and whale watching trips during certain seasons.
