Top Tips for Your First Visit to Portugal

This southern European country certainly doesn't lack in natural or architectural beauty. It's no wonder you have a desire to visit Portugal. There's a never-ending number of things to do and see. So, where should you even begin? Here are some top recommendations for visiting this magnificent nation for your first time.

Lisbon

As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon is full of vibrant culture, historical sights, and friendly natives. Also, Lisbon is an ideal place in the nation to take delight in authentic Portuguese cuisine and to enjoy live entertainment.

Lisbon is known for its traditional Fado performances. Don't miss out on an opportunity to listen to some of the best Portuguese folk music!

Batalha

One of the most phenomenal Gothic churches in all of Europe is the Gothic Monastery of Batalha.

The church preserve is protected as a World Heritage Monument due to its significance. As you enter the grand doors of the church, you'll immediately take notice to all of its architectural details and picturesque 16th Century stained glass windows.

The Abbey of Santa Maria

The Monastery of Santa Maria d'Alcobaça, north of Lisbon and south of Batalha, was founded in the 12th century by Alfonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal.

As Europe's most significant building of the Cistercian order, wander through this historical site for hours if you wish. There certainly is a lot to see, including the monastery, seven dormitories, the library, the kitchen, and of course, the church.

The Beaches

Beautiful Algarve beach Praia da Rocha in Portugal on a sunny day

The coastline of Portugal provides some of the most stunning beaches you'll ever see.

Don't shy away, take a break from your explorations to relax on the shorelines of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream. Some of the most popular beaches are in the Algarve region, Sagres, Aveiro, and the Praia da Adraga.

What are some of the most popular dishes and foods?

Arroz de Cabidela

Cabidela or arroz de cabidela is a Portuguese dish made with poultry, usually a hen. The particularity of the dish is that the hen's blood is added almost at the end, mixed with vinegar (so it doesn't clot) while the rice is boiling, much like "jugged" or "civet" dishes. The blood is captured when the animal is slaughtered and imparts a brown color to the dish.

It might seem daunting once you know what this dish derives from, but this chicken blood rice is a native favorite in Portugal. Cooking with blood is an antique custom common to several ancient cultures; in Portugal, Cabidela has been found in written record since the 16th century and may equally be prepared with other fowl or animals such as rabbit though these are rare.

Alheira

Alheira is a traditional smoked Portuguese sausage known as the King of Portuguese Sausage. Derived from the Portuguese word Alho meaning ‘garlic’ this sausage is rumoured to have been invented by the Portuguese Jews during the Inquisition.

When the practice of Jewish Faith was outlawed, the Portuguese Jewish population quickly disguised themselves as New Christians by creating a new smoked sausage stuffed with whatever non-pork ingredients they could find.

This tradition grew in popularity and Alheira is to this day is often not only filled with poultry, but also with game meat such as duck, rabbit, venison, partridge or pheasant: creating a mouthwatering smokey, garlicky and earthy aroma.

This delightful lunch includes sausage, typically prepared with french fries and fried eggs.

Bacalhau A Bras

Cod is shredded and sauteed to perfection and served with onion, straw fried potatoes, eggs, parsley, and garlic. it is usually garnished with olives.

Arroz Doce

As an authentic Portuguese dessert, this dish is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. This creamy rice pudding is topped with cinnamon and caramel custard to add to the burst of flavor.

Caldo Verde

On a chilly night, treat yourself with this fantastic soup. It's merely potato, onions, and shredded kale, cooked in garlic and olive oil, and yet it certainly doesn't lack in flavor!

Pastel de nata

Originating in Lisbon, this custard tart is an indigenous staple, and you certainly can't leave the country without giving it a try.

Now that you have some of our top tips for your first trip to Portugal, let's start planning your stay! You'll be amazed by the nation's delicious food options and breathtaking sights! For more information about Portugal, as well as other great solo destinations, insight and inspiration from like-minded women, and to be part of a fantastic female travel community, come and join us here at Wander and Soul.