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PORTUGAL!
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items First hand experiences of hidden gems that should not be missed while visiting Portugal!
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Aveiro to Lisbon
Aveiro to Lisbon
Mandatory stops between Aveiro and Lisbon. These small towns with their uniqueness are only to be visited by the ones that like to take the path less travelled, but most enjoyable!
The Venice of Portugal. A true gem. It has the feel of a small town, but the amenities of a large city. The river and it's canals that travel through the city give it a true Venice feel, but the comparisons stop there. Walk along the river, take a boat ride, sit and people watch at the Rossio (city square) or walk and browse. Buy a beautiful hand crafted ceramic in one of the many small shops on a cobble stone street. Sip on a sangria at one of the many patios, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants or tavernas near the "Mercado do Peixe". You can even take a pastry lesson with local pastry chef, to learn to make the local “ovos moles” famous Aveiro pastry.
Don't be in a hurry and wear comfortable shoes. There is soooo much to see and do!
Don't be in a hurry and wear comfortable shoes. There is soooo much to see and do!
Aveiro
Not 10 minutes from Aveiro, you will stumble upon a unique town of Costa Nova, with its striped homes, known as palheiros, and a large fish market as its anchor. Set between the Atlantic Ocean and the Aveiro Lagoon, it offers both expansive sandy bea... If you are lucky or time it right, you can enjoy a free street concert, delight in a show of fireworks, enjoy a carnival ride or saddle up to a “caipirinha” station to cool off, during one of the many street festivals held in this town each year.
Costa Nova, Portugal: an independent travel guide for 2026
A mere 50 minutes from Aveiro, you will come upon the costal town of Quiaios, with it's long stretch of golden sand, rolling dunes and long boardwalks for those lazy afternoon walks along the beach. Popular with surfers and nature lovers, it offers a more peaceful alternative to Portugal’s busier coastal destinations. With its small-town charm, fresh seafood, and proximity to pine forests and coastal trails, Quiaios is ideal for a relaxing escap... I love this pretty oasis of a town!
Quiaios, Portugal: All You Need to Know Before You Go (2026)
Get back to the car and drive another 15-20 minutes along the scenic costal road, and you will come upon the city of Figueira da Foz. The drive into the city is absolutely spectacular. You can stop at a look out and take some pictures or just sit and be mesmorized. With it's long stretch of white sandy beach, where during the summer, countless games of beach volleyball, soccer and handball competitions are fought. Athletes comes from all over Europe and the world travel here for these competitions, but you can ...
Figueira da Foz
This pretty town, is worth the drive inland. 1 ½ hour drive from Aveiro, to see the most beautiful unfinished monument that was commissioned in 1386 by King Joao I. The build was initiated in 1386 and did not end till 1563. This being said, it's inauguration was in 1517. This Gothic architecture is surely a monument not to be missed. Just the grandeur of the main doors will take your breath away!
Batalha
This colorful seaside town is a must stop on your way to Lisbon. Visit the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo where the crowds gather to watch the surfers ride the waves. Take the funicular from the beach to the Sitio to get an absolutely breathtaking view of the bay, go for a strole on the cobble stone streets or sit and enjoy a meal at one the local bar or restaurant. Walk the beach and check out the fish drying ou... They are always happy to oblige, especially if you purchase a treat. This is one of those stops that will create memories to last a lifetime.
Seaside Traditions in Portugal's Nazaré
Whether you are religious or not, this city should be a mandatory stop on your journey of Portugal. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima along with the grounds, the Basilica of our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity not only are religious symbols but are true works of architecture that should not be missed. Plan on spending a couple of hours to walk around the Sanctuary.
Witnessing the Power of Faith in Fátima, Portugal
Before heading south again toward Lisbon, you might want to stop at one of the 3 Natural Caves in the Fatima. Grutas de Mira de Aire, Grutas da Moeda and Grutas de Alvados (aka Grutas de Santo Antonio). These tours are +/- an hour each. If you can't do them all, pick one and you will NOT regret it!
Coin Caves
Head back to the coast and over to Peniche. This is one of my favorite coastal towns. I love the rock formations along this side of the coast in this area of Portugal. While in Peniche spend some time admiring the rocky shores, but take some time to take the ferry out to Berlenga Island, or wait for the tide to go down and drive acros...
A weekend in Peniche: What to see and do and my impressions
This picturesque medieval town in central Portugal, known for its well-preserved walls, cobblestone streets, and whitewashed houses trimmed with bright bougainvillea. Óbidos carries a rich history reflected in landmarks like its castle and ancient ch... The chocolate festival, held in the spring being one of my favorite. The medieval festival comes in second. This festival is held in the summer. This year it will be held July 16-26th. The famous cherry liqueur ginjinha, served in chocolate cups is a must try when you visit. Compact yet full of character, Óbidos offers a glimpse into Portugal’s past with a distinctly romantic and storybook feel. You get all of this charm for FREE! No entry fee to explore Obidos!
9 Amazing Things To Do In Obidos For Your Itinerary
Continue heading south towards Lisbon and you will come upon Mafra, where you must visit the Mafra National Palace and the Basilica of Our Lady of Saint Anthony of Mafra.
Mafra | www.visitportugal.com
Final Destination: Lisbon, with all its glory. So much to see and do and so little time…Lisbon is a vibrant coastal capital that blends historic charm with modern energy. Built across seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, it offers sweeping viewpoints, colorful tiled buildings, and iconic yell... The city is rich in culture and history, with landmarks such as Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery reflecting Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Museums, art galleries, and historic sites sit alongside trendy cafés, rooftop bars, and a thriving food scene...
Visit Lisboa: Lisboa OFFICIAL Site
