🇵🇹 Why Visit Portugal? Here are 9 Reasons:
1. Beautiful Landscapes
From the golden cliffs of the Algarve to the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley and the fairy-tale forests of Sintra, Portugal has a lot to offer!
2. Coastal Vibes + Hidden Beaches
Portugal’s coastline is stunning, with over 850 km of beaches, coves, and dramatic cliffs. Perfect for surfing, sunbathing, relaxing and exploring.
3. Affordable Travel
Compared to a lot of Western Europe, Portugal is so reasonable. The food, the places to stay, and the attractions were all really affordable, which made the whole trip feel that much better.
4. Incredible Food and Wine
Did I mention the food? Pastéis de nata, fresh grilled sardines and seafood, porco preto, and then the wine (hello, Port and Vinho Verde). If you love to eat, you’re going to be very happy here.
5. Warm, Welcoming People
You can expect welcoming Portuguese hospitality, friendly greetings, helpful directions, and a laid-back, respectful culture. Most people speak some English, but it’s always nice to greet people in Portuguese and give it your best effort!
6. Deep History & Architecture
Roman ruins, Moorish castles, Gothic cathedrals, and beautiful azulejos (tiles) everywhere. There is so much history packed into every city.
7. Easy to Travel Around
Portugal is compact and well-connected. No need for a rental car with Bolt (similar to Uber) as well as convenient public transportation via trains and ferries. You can see a lot in a short amount of time.
8. Rich Cultural Scene
From Fado music in Lisbon to traditional festivals and colorful markets, culture and tradition are woven into everyday life.
9. Safe and Solo-Friendly
Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, so it’s a great pick for solo travelers, for families, and for anyone taking their first big trip somewhere new.
This is why you should go to Portugal, but why did I go? In addition to all of the reason above, I also went to visit my godmother and also to scope out some potential real estate for the future!
There is absolutely no way you can squeeze everything into just a week in Portugal, but I did my best to do as much as possible! Here was my itinerary:
Top Things to Do in Portugal (Setúbal Region)
If you only have a few days, here is what I would not miss:
- Visit the Mercado do Livramento in Setúbal, one of Portugal’s most beautiful food markets
- Take the catamaran to the Tróia Peninsula for white sand and quiet beaches
- Go up to Forte de São Filipe for the best views over Setúbal and the Sado River
- Try choco frito (fried cuttlefish) and porco preto (black Iberian pork)
- Eat a warm pastel de nata with a bica (Portuguese espresso)
- Take a day trip to the beach town of Sesimbra through the Arrábida Natural Park
- Time your visit for the Feira Medieval de Palmela if you go in September
- Get around with Bolt (like Uber) and the ferries, no rental car needed
Day 1: Lisbon to Setúbal
I took a redeye direct from JFK to Lisbon, about a 9 hour flight. Not too bad! I was shocked when I was served two complimentary meals on the Delta flight (dinner and breakfast) and it included free alcoholic drinks as well!
I’ve heard some horror stories about the Lisbon airport but for me it was easy breezy! Customs was pretty quick, I got my checked bag and headed out to meet my godmother.
We took a Bolt (just like Uber) from Lisbon to Setúbal where she lives. Since my flight landed at 8am, we had the whole day ahead of us! It was a beautiful drive across the Tagus River (Rio Tejo) via the Vasco da Gama Bridge (Ponte Vasco da Gama) which crosses the Tagus Estuary near its mouth at the Atlantic.
Fun Fact: The Vasco da Gama Bridge is the longest bridge in Europe (about 17 km).
Once we arrived in Setubal and got settled, we took a walk through town, checked out the shops, got an espresso and went to the most incredible market, the 🐟 Mercado do Livramento: Setúbal’s Must-Visit Market.
If you’re anywhere near Setúbal, don’t skip the Mercado do Livramento. It’s one of Portugal’s most famous food markets and honestly it’s such a fun place to wander around if you love local food and culture. I could have spent all day in here!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Fresh everything: Olives, cheeses, fruits, breads, pastries and more! Everything is local, seasonal, and beautifully displayed.
- World-class seafood: Setúbal’s known for its cuttlefish, sardines, and other Atlantic catches. You’ll see fishermen wheeling in crates right off the boats!
- Gorgeous azulejos: The walls are lined with blue-and-white Portuguese tiles telling stories of the region’s maritime heritage.
Where & When To Go:
Located right on Avenida Luísa Todi, this massive indoor market is open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Insider Tips:
- Go Early! that’s when the locals shop and the fish is flopping-fresh.
- Bring cash, and don’t be shy about pointing and asking about things. Vendors are friendly and love helping visitors.
- Try a bifana or pastel de nata from nearby cafés after your market stroll.
- Great for photos, especially the colorful seafood displays and ornate tile murals. Go early for best light and fewer crowds.
We bought a few things from the market including a Pastel de Nata, a must try while you’re in Portugal!
🥮 What Is a Pastel de Nata?
It’s a creamy egg custard tart with a crisp, flaky puff pastry shell, usually topped with a little cinnamon or powdered sugar. Served warm, it’s got this golden caramelized top and a silky, not-too-sweet filling. Deliscious!
A Quick Backstory:
- Born in Belém (Lisbon): Created by monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in the 18th century. Monks used egg whites for starching clothes and had tons of yolks left over and voila, custard tarts were born!
- They sold the recipe to a nearby bakery in 1837, which became the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
How to Eat It Like a Local:
- Order it with a bica (Portuguese espresso).
- Sprinkle cinnamon or powdered sugar on top (available at most bakeries).
- Eat it warm. Always warm. Some spots even flame the tops slightly for a brûlée-style crisp.
For dinner, I had to try choco-frito (fried cuttlefish). If there’s one dish that defines Setúbal, it’s choco frito! It’s crispy, golden fried cuttlefish that’s wildly popular with locals and visitors alike.
🐙 What is Choco Frito?
“Choco” means cuttlefish (a cousin of squid), and “frito” means fried. The dish is made by marinating strips of cuttlefish in garlic, white wine, and herbs, then lightly coating them in flour and frying until crispy outside, tender inside. It’s usually served with: Batatas fritas (fries or potato rounds), lemon wedges and sometimes a side salad.
It’s kind of like calamari, but meatier, richer, and full of flavor. I really enjoyed it!
A Quick Bit of History:
Setúbal sits on the Sado River, and its history is deeply tied to fishing. Cuttlefish have been abundant in these waters for centuries, and this dish started out as a humble, home-style seafood fry-up for local families and fishermen.
Over time, it became a regional specialty, now served in cafes, beachside shacks, and top restaurants. You’ll even find statues and murals dedicated to choco frito in Setúbal!
📍 Where to Try It
- Casa Santiago, O Rei do Choco Frito: Known as the “King of Fried Cuttlefish”. No frills, just iconic.
- Tasca da Avenida or Martróia: Great options for a cozy meal near the waterfront.
- Market-adjacent eateries: Grab a plate after visiting Mercado do Livramento for a super local lunch.
Pro Tip:
Order it with a cold glass of white wine (try Setúbal’s Moscatel or Vinho Verde) and sit outside if you can, it’s the perfect seaside food.
Day 2: Tróia Peninsula and Forte de São Filipe
After a good night’s sleep, I was ready for a full day of exploring! We took a catamaran to Tróia Peninsula to check out the beach and have some lunch.
There is a catamaran ferry for foot traffic and also a car ferry that goes to a different part of Tróia. We accidentally bought tickets for the car ferry and then had to exchange them for tickets on the catamaran, so make sure you’re in the right terminal! They’re about a 5 minute walk apart from each other at the port. The pedestrian fare is very reasonable (around 5 to 6 euros for a one way), though prices for vehicles on the car ferry are a bit higher.
The catamaran drops you right into Tróia’s pedestrian zone so you can step off and wander straight into the resort, casino, beach, and marina, no car ferry or long drive needed. It’s only about a 15 to 20 minute boat ride and they leave every hour back and forth.
Once we arrived, we walked the long boardwalk out to the wide open beaches of the Tróia Peninsula. The white sand and clear blue water are so beautiful! We were here in September during the off season, so the beach was not crowded at all. It was quiet and peaceful and pretty much all ours.
We walked back towards the marina and decided on lunch at Contrabando Tróia. I was excited to try Secretos Porco Preto which I ordered with a crisp, cool glass of Rosé and a salada de abacate (avocado salad). The Porco Preto was SO GOOD! I’ve never had pork like this in the states. It’s even better than pork belly!
What Is Porco Preto? It’s Portugal’s Beloved Black Iberian Pig
Porco preto (literally “black pig”) refers to the Iberian black pig, a native breed raised mostly in southern Portugal, especially the Alentejo region. It’s the same breed used for Spain’s jamón ibérico, but in Portugal, it gets its own delicious identity.
How It’s Raised:
- Porco preto pigs are. Free-range and often pasture-raised
- Fed a natural diet of acorns, herbs, and grains
- Slow-grown, which gives the meat time to develop rich marbling and deep flavor
This acorn diet gives the meat a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, similar to how acorn-fed pigs in Spain are prized for their cured ham. But in Portugal, porco preto is also eaten fresh and grilled, not just cured.
What to Try:
You’ll find porco preto all over Portuguese menus in these mouthwatering forms:
- Plumas: Thin, tender cuts from the shoulder and back, grilled medium-rare
- Secreto: The marbled “secret” cut, juicy and rich (this is what I had and it was delicious!)
- Lagartos: Strips from between the ribs, leaner but still flavorful
- Costeletas: Black pork ribs, grilled with garlic and lemon
Served with potatoes, migas (a garlicky breadcrumb mix), or salad, it’s Portuguese comfort food at its finest.
Forte de São Filipe: Setúbal’s Hilltop Fortress with a View
We took the ferry back to town and decided to go up to the Forte de São Felipe. It was a short car ride from town via Bolt.
The Forte de São Filipe sits high above Setúbal, and it ended up being one of my favorite stops. It’s a quiet spot with sweeping views over the city and the river, and it’s hands down one of the best photo ops in the area.
There is a cafe at the top with amazing views, where I tried my first Super Bock beer.
A Bit of History:
- Built in the late 16th century under King Philip I of Portugal (also Philip II of Spain during the Iberian Union).
- It’s purpose was to defend Setúbal and the Sado River estuary from pirates and naval invasions.
- Designed by Italian architect Filippo Terzi, the fortress is part of a wider network of coastal defenses.
Inside, you’ll still find a baroque-style chapel with traditional azulejos (blue-and-white tiles) dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception, the fort’s spiritual protector.
Why Visit?
- The Views: From the ramparts, you’ll see the entire city of Setúbal, the Sado River, Tróia Peninsula, and out to the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, (which it was), it’s absolutely breathtaking.
- The Vibe: It’s much quieter than tourist-heavy spots. You might even have it mostly to yourself.
- The History: Wander through old battlements and tunnels, and imagine cannon fire echoing across the estuary centuries ago.
How to Get There:
Located just above Setúbal’s center, it’s about a 10-minute drive or a challenging 30-minute uphill walk (steep but scenic). We opted to take Bolt. There is parking available near the top as well.
Pro Tips:
- Time your visit for late afternoon or golden hour. The light on the water is magical!
- Bring water, comfy shoes and sunscreen if you’re walking up. There is a cafe at the top where you can enjoy an espresso,“água com gás” which is sparkling water (literally, “water with gas”). beer or glass of wine.
Day 3: Exploring Setúbal
We explored more of town today, walking around enjoying the history and architecture. The Terreiro de Jesus & the Igreja de Jesus and Mosteiro de Jesus (Church / Monastery of Jesus) are worth seeing!
The church and its monastic complex are located on the square known as Terreiro de Jesus in Setúbal. The square itself offers a pretty calm, open space in the heart of the city, ideal to sit, sip a coffee, people-watch, and take in the architecture.
Why It Stands Out:
- The church (built between 1490 and 1510) is one of the earliest examples of the Portuguese “Manueline” style (that ornate late Gothic style unique to Portugal).
- Its interior has these twisted, rope like granite columns (“Solomonic” style) that are really striking and pretty rare for the time.
- The stone in the columns and other details comes from the nearby Serra da Arrábida (the Arrábida range), which gives it that distinctive local pink color.
- Fun design note: architect Diogo de Boitaca used this church as kind of an experimental project before his later big works, like the famous Jerónimos in Lisbon.
Architectural & Material Highlights:
- The twisted columns: each one is actually three intertwined sub columns supporting the arches in the nave. They are so impressive in person!
- The vaulting: the ceiling has late Gothic ribbed vaulting, with some ribs shaped like twisted rope motifs, which ties into the whole twist theme.
- The stone: the columns are made from breccia from the Arrábida, which gives that mottled, reddish pink stone effect. Absolutely beautiful!
- The exterior and square may look plain at first glance, but once you step in and notice the details (the twisted columns, the stone, the vaults) you realize how rich the architecture really is. Not to mention all the cobbled streets, which you’ll see later.
That evening, we walked into town to go to a local bar, Gatsby Cocktailaria, that is owned and frequented by ex-pats. This was one of the only places we went where everyone was speaking English and not Portuguese. Gatsby is a craft cocktail bar in the historic center of Setúbal with luxe décor and innovative, world-themed cocktails and skilled bartenders. They often have themed events, live music, burlesque shows, and are very welcoming to both locals and travelers.
When we went, they were having a birthday party for the owners and there was a huge buffet of food and a magician was making the rounds entertaining guests.
I had the Peruvian themed drink, the “Rojo de Los Andes” which had El Gobernador Pisco infused with corriander, beetrout coulis, orange juice, lemon juice, white vermouth and ginger syrup. Complete with a huge smoky bubble on top and absolutely delicious! It was so good I didn’t want to try anything else!
Day 4: Day Trip to Sesimbra
Today we took a Bolt to the town of Sesimbra and ate lunch at a French bistro called Bistrot Vin’tage. We ate outside with a view of the water and had a really nice lunch. If you’re looking for a break from seafood and Portuguese dishes, this is a great spot! I had the Diana Tosta, an open-faced sandwich with cheese, bacon, ham, egg, tomato and sprouts along with a glass of vinho verde and a coffee for dessert.
I learned that my favorite coffee to order is an “Abatenado Pingado” which is like an Americano with a bit of steamed milk and foam. Kind of like a mix between an Americano and a cappuccino. If you just order a coffee, you’re going to get an espresso served with a packet of sugar, no milk.
Sesimbra is a cute little beach town, perfect if you want to relax by the water. It is a bit more touristy and there are lots of little gift shops to check out. I actually got a ring that was only 4 euros!
Why Sesimbra is Worth Visiting:
Sesimbra is a little coastal town in the Setúbal District, about 40 km south of Lisbon. It sits on a curving turquoise bay with the hills of the Serra da Arrábida natural park right behind it, so you get the beach, the mountains, and a real fishing village all in one spot. It started out as a fishing port and still has that vibe. You’ll see boats coming in, fish being sorted, and seafood restaurants all along the promenade, which is honestly a big part of its charm.
What to Do & See:
- Castelo de Sesimbra: High above the town, this castle has sweeping views over the bay and coast. We didn’t go up there, but it’s supposed to be a great photo spot.
- Beaches: The main beach in town is super easy to get to and family friendly. Beyond that there are smaller, more hidden spots if you have transport. We just took a Bolt to and from.
- Town center and harbor: Wander the sloping streets, watch the fishing boats, browse the little shops, and chill on the beach.
- Nature and coast: Because Sesimbra sits at the foot of the Arrábida hills, a short trip out of town takes you into more dramatic landscapes, cliffs, and nature trails.
How To Get There:
- From Setúbal to Sesimbra it’s about 40 to 45 minutes (32 km) via the scenic N379 road through the Arrábida Natural Park. This route is winding but gorgeous! You drive past cliffs, forests, and coastal viewpoints.
- From Lisbon to Sesimbra it’s around 40 to 50 minutes (38 km) via A2 and N378 or the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Pro Tips:
- Time to stay: A full day is great for Sesimbra. Arrive late morning, have lunch, take an afternoon walk on the beach, shop or visit the castle.
- What to bring: Swimwear, sunscreen + sandals for beach time, comfortable shoes if climbing to the castle, maybe a light jacket for the breeze by the coast.
- When to go: Outside peak tourist season offers a calmer experience, though the town still has energy. Again, we were here in September and it was during the week, so it was way more relaxed and less crowded.
Day 5: Palmela Medieval Fair
I happened to time my trip just right to attend the Feira Medieval de Palmela, which is one weekend in September every year. Where else can you go to a medieval fair that’s at an actual castle? It was pretty cool! We probably would have gone to check out the Castelo de Palmela anyway, but the fair made it even better.
The fair is held in the historic hill town of Palmela (in the Setúbal District, about 30 minutes south of Lisbon), and the 3 day event basically feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. The setting is magical. It spreads through the town’s Castelo de Palmela and the old historic centre, with markets, street performances, reenactments and all the medieval ambiance you could want. The medieval market (feira franca) was packed with artisan stalls, crafts, and food and drink, plus street entertainment, knights on horseback, music, falconry, acrobatics and jugglers. Since you’re already in the Setúbal region, it’s easy to pair Palmela with a wine tour (this area is known for it) or just do it as a stop on the way to or from Lisbon. I will definitely be doing more wine tasting next time!
Lots of people were in costume and you could even rent costumes to dress in medieval garb to take photos and really get into the action. What made it really cool was the historic setting of the castle & old town which really makes it immersive. You’re literally walking where it might’ve happened centuries ago.
Pro Tips:
- Location and access: Palmela is south of Lisbon and Setúbal, so if you’re already in Setúbal it’s an easy add to your trip.
- Tickets: For 2025, a single day wristband cost about €4, and I believe kids under 12 got in free with the purchase of an adult wristband.
- Dress up: If you want to fully get into it, you can rent a medieval costume onsite (the 2025 price was €11 for one day).
- Best time to go: Get there early, especially on Saturday. Friday may be quieter but still lively. We went Saturday right when it opened. It was a cloudy day and it actually started raining right as things got crowded and we were heading out.
- Footwear: The castle and historic lanes are cobbled and steep in parts, so wear comfy shoes. I’d also bring a tote bag in case you buy souvenirs.
- Food and drink: There were tons of themed food stalls. We got more porco preto and some sausages with pickled vegetables that were really good (photo below)! It’s a fun way to try local specialties with a historic twist.
- Parking: Since the fair is up in the castle area, parking is outside the old town, so plan for a short uphill walk. We took a Bolt so we didn’t have to deal with it.
Day 6: Lisbon
For my last couple days in Portugal, we decided to spend them in Lisbon. We took the train from Setúbal station and rode into Lisbon, about an hour train ride. From there we got on a ferry to ride across the river which dropped us right into the heart of the city. You get a great view of Lisbon on the ferry!
We walked right past the iconic plaza right on the Tagus River waterfront, where the ferry drops you off in Lisbon. It’s called the Praça do Comércio also known as Terreiro do Paço. It’s definitely a hub of Lisbon life, lined with cafés, museums, and views of the Rua Augusta Arch and the 25 de Abril Bridge in the distance. It’s one of Lisbon’s largest and most famous squares, surrounded by yellow Pombaline-style buildings and arched arcades. Historically, it was the site of the Royal Palace before it was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake.
We walked to our hotel which was the cutest boutique hotel and our room had a Juliet balcony with a view of the waterfront, the Cristo Rei (Christ the King) monument and the bridge! When I saw it, I immediately thought of the statue in Brazil so I looked it up to confirm.
Fun Fact:
The Cristo Rei (Christ the King Monument) was in fact inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. It stands 28-meter-tall statue on a 75-meter pedestal, overlooking the Tagus River located on the Almada side of the river, facing Lisbon with open arms, offering a sense of peace and protection. It was built in 1959 as a symbol of gratitude for Portugal being spared the horrors of WWII.
Right next to our hotel was the Pink Street, a short pedestrian lane officially named Rua Nova do Carvalho. It used to be the gritty red-light district, but it’s been revived into a fun nightlife and photo spot, with the pavement painted pink, colorful umbrellas overhead, and lots of bars and casual restaurants.
We walked around the city all day, taking in the tourists, the shops and the sites then found a nice spot for dinner.
Day 7: Sintra
For my last day in Portugal, we took the train from Lisbon Rossio station to Sintra, about a 40 minute ride. We bought our tickets the day before and checked the schedule so we knew when to arrive. Trains run every 20 to 30 minutes, but I’d get there a little early so you can grab seats.
Once you arrive at Sintra train station, you’ll need transport to reach the main sights, as they’re quite spread out and up steep hills.
Tuk-Tuks vs. Buses: What’s the Best Way to Get Around?
Tuk-Tuks
- Fast and fun: Tuk-tuks are the quickest and most flexible way to get around.
- The local drivers double as guides and share stories as you ride.
- Great if you’re short on time or want to skip the long lines.
- Cost: about €5 to €10 per person per ride (depends on the route and how you negotiate).
- Tip: you can also hire a tuk-tuk for a custom loop of the top attractions, which is handy if you’re only doing a half-day visit.
Tourist Buses (434/435)
- Bus 434 does a one-way loop from the station to Sintra town ➝ Moorish Castle ➝ Pena Palace ➝ back to station
- Cost: ~€11.50 for a hop-on-hop-off ticket (2025 rate).
- Slower, but great if you’re traveling on a budget.
- Gets crowded in high season, and waits can be long.
We opted to take the bus since it was cheap and not too crowded since we visited during the off season.
What to See & Do in Sintra:
1. Palácio da Pena (Pena Palace)
- The postcard-perfect palace with bright colors, domes, and towers.
- Mix of romanticism, Moorish, and Gothic styles.
- Tour the interiors, then walk the castle walls for 360° views over Sintra and the Atlantic. Less flashy, but rich in history and tile work.
2. Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle)
- Ancient stone fortress ruins with dramatic hilltop views.
- Great for photos and history lovers, plus fewer crowds than Pena.
3. Quinta da Regaleira
- Enchanted gardens, underground tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well, which is one of the most Instagrammed spots in Portugal.
- Every corner has symbolic carvings, hidden passages, and mossy stone paths.
4. Palácio Nacional de Sintra
- Right in the town center, known for its iconic twin chimneys.
5. Monserrate Palace
- Off the beaten path = fewer crowds.
- Exotic gardens, Moorish architecture, and peaceful atmosphere.
Pro Tips:
- Plan for at least 4 to 6 hours to really enjoy the top spots.
- Buy your entry tickets online to avoid the massive queues, especially for Pena Palace.
- Wear comfy shoes! The cobblestones and hills are no joke.
- If you’re short on time, prioritize Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
- Bring water and snacks! There aren’t many places to stop inside the park areas.
There is a lot to see and do here and we didn’t even come close to seeing it all. We started at the Moorish Castle, then went to the Pena Palace but couldn’t get in for a couple hours so we decided to get some lunch. We made the mistake of not bringing water and snacks, so we needed to get something quickly. We hopped back on the bus and took a chance getting off at one of the stops in town. We lucked out by finding this cute little alleyway lined with several restaurants. We had a great lunch, hopped back on the bus and went to the Palace.
After that, it was getting late and we were getting tired from walking, but there was one more thing I had to try!
I walked through the shops until I found Casa Piriquita to try the famous Travesseiro which means “pillow” and it’s exactly that: a flaky, sugar-dusted puff pastry filled with almond and egg cream. Paired with a coffee, it was really rich but tasty! You can also try queijadas there, a small sweet cheese tart, which is another Sintra specialty (I did not try these). Casa Piriquita has been serving these since the mid-1800s, and it’s still family-run!
We took the train back to Lisbon, strolled the streets until we found a place for dinner. It was an excellent last meal and the perfect way to end my trip!
I’m already excited to go back and visit Portugal again!
Have you been to Portugal? I’d love to hear about your favorite spots!
Until next time, happy travels!
-Selene
Portugal Travel Questions
Do you need a car to get around Portugal? Not really. We used Bolt (similar to Uber) and the local ferries and trains the whole time. Portugal is compact and well connected, so you can see a lot without renting a car.
Is Portugal expensive? Compared to most of Western Europe, no. Food, stays, and attractions were very reasonable. A one-way catamaran to Tróia was around 5 to 6 euros, and a day wristband to the Palmela medieval fair was about 4 euros.
When is the best time to visit? We went in September, in the off season, and loved it. The beaches were quiet, the weather was still warm, and everything felt relaxed and uncrowded.
Do people speak English in Portugal? Most people speak at least some English, especially in tourist areas. It is still nice to learn a few Portuguese greetings and give it your best effort.
What food do I have to try? Pastel de nata, choco frito (fried cuttlefish), and porco preto (black Iberian pork). Pair them with a Vinho Verde or a local Moscatel de Setúbal.
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About the author: I’m Selene Teitelbaum, the DIYer behind Selene Builds Things. I share home projects, beginner-friendly DIY tutorials, and the occasional travel adventure. More about me
