If your idea of Christmas markets involves shivering in three layers while clutching a mug of mulled wine for warmth, Portugal is about to change your mind. Here, the festive season arrives with twinkling lights, lively squares, and a mild coastal breeze that makes wandering between stalls feel downright dreamy. From Lisbon’s sparkling avenues to …
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It’s November, and the growing season has ended here in Portugal. All the vegetables have been harvested, the olives shaken from the trees, and the grapes picked, stomped, and processed. So the only thing left to do is celebrate! São Martinho Day or Saint Martin’s Day is celebrated as the last day of the harvest …
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Before moving to Portugal, Halloween was my favorite time of year. Six weeks in advance, we’d start decorating every corner of the house—pumpkins on the windowsills, lights strung around every room, and crates of decorations brought down from the attic. Weekends were filled with stringing lights outside, hunting for the perfect haunted house, or wandering through …
On the banks of the Nabão River sits the city of Tomar, a charming medieval town in the heart of Portugal that often flies under the radar of many travelers. Yet, this small town offers a perfect blend of rich Portuguese history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty that makes it a true hidden gem. Founded in the late 12th century by the Order of …
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Some stories of love withstand time, echoing across centuries as both a warning and a wonder. Few tales capture the imagination like the story of Pedro and Inês, two souls whose love defied convention, politics, and even death itself. Known as the “Juliet of Portugal,” the love story of Pedro and Inês is a tale …
Known as the “Cradle of Portugal,” Guimarães isn’t just another picturesque European town—it’s the birthplace of a nation, a living museum where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy. Unfortunately, Guimarães is often considered a city for a day trip from Porto. It’s combined with Braga and is a full-day trip. Personally, I don’t think you can …
**Wandering Works for Us contains affiliate links and is part of Viator, Get Your Guide, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and Amazon Services Associates Program LLC. If you make a purchase using one of the links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Nestled in the heart of northern Portugal, Braga is a …
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For those of you who have watched 100 Foot Wave on HBO/MAX, you know about Nazaré. If you haven’t watched it, I encourage you to so you can see some of the biggest waves in the world and the crazy people who surf them. But Nazaré is more than a big wave surfing destination. It …
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When travelers think of Portugal, three destinations often come to mind: Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. However, unlike Lisbon and Porto, the Algarve isn’t a single city– It’s an entire region brimming with diverse experiences. Whether you are seeing golden beaches, thrilling water sports, charming villages, historic sites, or world-class cuisine, the Algarve has something …
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When you hear about palaces in Portugal, most think of Sintra and Pena Palace. It is the famous castle on the hill that (some say) inspired Disney’s castle. But if you want an alternative that is easier to get to, has fewer crowds, and is grander than Pena, we recommend Mafra Palace. This incredible 18th-century …