Indeed, the Portuguese love to go out, dance, sing, share convivial moments… And this, all year round, from north to south, with numerous festivals that punctuate Portuguese life. But summer is the season par excellence for living and celebrating in the streets of Portugal!

With this in mind, I’d like to introduce you to the next 5 most famous popular festivals in Portugal, along with a few anecdotes about them. If you get the chance, I highly recommend taking part: these are ideal times to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture

1) Queima das fitas in Coimbra – May

The Queima das fitas, or “burning of the ribbons”, is a festival dedicated to the end of Portuguese university life, and takes place in May at the end of the academic year. This tradition exists in almost every university town in Portugal, but the festivities in Coimbra, the Portuguese university town par excellence, are the oldest and most renowned.

It has to be said that university festivities attract thousands of spectators. The Queima das Fitas salutes students at the end of their university studies. A great opportunity to get to know this student city and discover yet another Portuguese tradition. The festivities are punctuated by three key moments:

• 1.1- The “queima das fitas” (burning of the ribbons)

On entering university, Portuguese students receive a ribbon (” fita” in Portuguese ), the color of which corresponds to the discipline they are studying ( yellow for medicine, red for law, light blue for science, etc.). To symbolize the end of their student life, students burn this ribbon in a cauldron in front of Coimbra Cathedral.

Coimbra students burning their ribbons.

• 1.2- The “Serenata Monumental” (the serenade)

Still in front of the Cathedral, guitarists accompany Fado singers for a convivial moment.

• 1.3- The “cortejo” (procession)

Students dressed in their traditional black capes make their way through the streets of the city in floats decorated in the colors of each faculty. Students about to graduate, on the other hand, parade on foot, wearing hats and walking sticks in their university’s colors. It’s customary to cane these students’ top hats three times, to ensure that they continue to enjoy a successful professional life.

2) La Romaria de Fátima – May

The Romarias ( pilgrimages) to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima attract thousands of people. The main romaria is that of May 13, which celebrates the first apparition of Our Lady to three shepherd children in the village of Fátima in 1917.

In this spirit, numerous religious ceremonies take place on this occasion, particularly on the night of May 12-13. Pilgrims come to Fátima by every conceivable means of transport: donkey- or ox-drawn carts, bicycles, and some even kneel the last 200 meters to the Chapel of the Apparitions, following a marble route.

It’s worth noting that in Portugal, there’s an old tradition of kneeling to make a promise to God, or to ask for him. On May 13, the statue of Our Lady of Fátima is brought before the basilica, and over 500,000 pilgrims attend the celebration. In the evening, there is another torchlight procession.

Kneeling pilgrims arriving at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima.

3) Santo António celebrations in Lisbon – June

Santo António (priest, born in Lisbon) celebrations are very popular in Lisbon in June. They take place mainly in the capital’s neighborhoods ( Graça, Mouraria, Castelo, Alfama, Bairro Alto…), which, for the occasion, are decorated with garlands, multicolored lanterns and basilica pots.

In other words, there’s no shortage of entertainment, with concerts, fado shows, popular songs, street theater and exhibitions… But there are a few highlights to highlight:

• 3.1- The “marches

The famous popular marches take place on the night of June 12-13. These take the form of marching bands and the famous Avenida da Liberdade, the capital’s main thoroughfare.

• 3.2- The grand procession

Secondly, on June 13, a public holiday in Lisbon, the procession departs from the Santo António church, located in the Alfama district, right next to the Sé Cathedral and built on the former home of Santo António. The procession moves through the narrow streets of Alfama, and then returns to the church.

• 3.3- Santo António weddings

It’s said that if you get married on Santo António, you’ll have a happy marriage. Every year, 16 Lisbon couples are selected by the city council and their weddings are organized by the city. Those selected for these Santo António weddings can be found on the “Casamentos de Santo António” facebook page.

The Santo António bride and groom.

• 3.4- The altars

During the Santo António festivities, many altars are built, dedicated to this saint. A competition is held every year to choose the most beautiful altar. They are usually in the form of a staircase, decorated with flowers, a basilica and Santo António, and are shown at the very top.

• 3.5- Grilled sardines

There are also grilled sardines. In fact, the French often rename these festivities “les fêtes de la sardine”. But why? Quite simply because one of the characteristics of these festivals is the presence of barbecues set up in all the streets of Lisbon, on which sardines are grilled and served with bread, a glass of vinho verde and a little caldo verde soup, very typical of Portuguese festivals.

Grilled meats and sardines in the streets of Lisbon.

4) São João festivities in Porto – June

The São João festivities date back to the 14th century and were originally pagan festivals marking the summer solstice, and celebrating abundance and fertility. Later, they took on religious overtones. As a result, these festivities gather large numbers of people all over Portugal, but the city in which they are most prominent is Porto.

São João is the city’s patron saint. The historic center is decorated with balloons and colored paper. Since the festival culminates on the night of June 23 to 24, a vast program (folk groups, popular songs, processions , street entertainment, orchestras, exhibitions, processions…) takes place throughout the city in the weeks following São Joao. Several traditions and highlights punctuate these festivities, including the voices :

• 4.1- Tapping on the head

First and foremost, this tradition has its roots in pagan courtship rituals. For example, it was customary for participants to tap the heads of attractive girls with garlic flowers or leeks, symbolizing the start of a flirtation.

It has to be said that this tradition lives on, but the garlic flowers and leeks have been replaced by soft plastic hammers, and everyone taps and gets tapped on the head during this São João evening. By the way, there’s a little secret about this tradition: a love affair produced at the São João is said to last a lifetime, so make sure you select the people you hit on the head – one of them could be your soul mate.

People who hit each other with soft hammers during the São João.

• 4.2- Grilled sardines

As with the Santo António festivities in Lisbon, it’s typical to enjoy grilled sardines on broa (my favorite Portuguese bread) and caldo verde soup during these São João festivities.

• 4.3- The basil pot

It’s also customary to give a jar of basil to friends and family for good luck, often accompanied by a love or friendship poem. The person to whom you give it should keep it alive for at least a year, until the next festivities. ( A little tip for keeping it alive: never water the basil directly, but put a bowl of water under the pot and let the basil absorb the water! That was the gardening minute! )

A merchant selling pots of basil.

• 4.4- Fireworks

To round off the festivities, after dinner everyone heads to Avenida dos Aliados or Ribeira to watch the grand fireworks display near the mythical Douro River and Ponte Luiz I.

5) Viana do Castelo festivals – August

The Romaria ( pilgrimage ) of Our Lady of Agony is probably one of the most famous in Portugal. The romaria takes place over 4 days in August in Viana do Castelo, in northern Portugal, and attracts large numbers of people every year. Since the 18th century, fishermen have been praying to the Virgin Mary for calm seas. Highlights of the festival include:

• 5.1- The creation of salt carpets

On the evening and night before the sea procession, salt carpets, flowers and seaweed are created by the fishermen and their families for the sea procession the following day.

One of the salt carpets in the town of Viana do Castelo.

• 5.2- The cortejo (procession)

A parade designed to showcase the town’s customs is performed by 3,000 extras who parade for 2km through the streets of Viana do Castelo.

• 5.3- The Mordomia parade

400 local women dressed in colorful folk costumes and jeweled ornaments parade through the streets.

• 5.4- The “Gigantones” and “Cabeçudos” (big heads) parade

There are also giant puppets who dance in the various processions.

The Gigantones during the Viana do Castelo festivities.

• 5.5- The serenata

To conclude the festivities, a huge fireworks display takes place on the century-old bridge over the River Lima.

In conclusion

As you can see, popular festivities in Portugal are omnipresent, and even here I’ve only presented a tiny fraction of them. I strongly recommend that you take part in a few of them – you won’t be disappointed! There are festivals all year round, all over Portugal.

So, tell me, which Portuguese festivals will you be taking part in?

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1. Algarve – 35% :

TheAlgarve, located in southern Portugal, is one of the most sought-after regions for foreign investors. Famous for its magnificent beaches, sunny climate and world-renowned golf courses, the Algarve attracts buyers from all over the world. Around 35% of foreign investment in Portugal is concentrated in this region, where luxury villas, sea-view apartments and traditional houses are particularly sought-after. In the Algarve , sales of homes to foreign buyers accounted for 27.2% and 38.5% respectively of the total number and value of transactions in the region. We’re property hunters, we’ll help you find what you’re looking for.

Algarve

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2.Lisbon and the Metropolitan Region – 25% :

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, and its metropolitan region account for around 25% of foreign investment in the country. This dynamic region offers a unique combination of culture, history and modernity, making it an attractive choice for international investors. Neighborhoods such as Chiado, Alfama and Belém are particularly popular for property purchases, with strong demand for renovated apartments and character properties. Here are 10 sights to see in Lisbon. Villa Feria specializes in the area, so contact us and we’ll help you find the property that’s right for you.

Praça do Comercio, Lisbon

The Setúbal region, located in the south of Portugal, offers great potential with 5.1% of total insvestment em 2023. Known for its breathtaking coastal scenery, renowned vineyards and rich cultural heritage, Setúbal is increasingly attracting investors. Diversified investment opportunities are available, ranging from residential real estate to tourism and vineyard projects. With easy access to Lisbon and the surrounding area, Setúbal presents an ideal setting for investors seeking to benefit from the region’s economic and tourism dynamism. It’s one of the most popular areas for French speakers, so get in touch with us and we’ll help you not only with finding the property, but with the whole process and installation. We’ve written an article on investing in Costa da Caparica, which you can find here.

Fonte da Telha, South Lisbon

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3. Porto and Northern Portugal – 15%:

The historic city of Porto and its surrounding region account for around 15% of foreign investment in Portugal. Famous for its port wine and iconic architecture, Porto attracts investors looking for charm and authenticity. Neighborhoods such as Ribeira and Foz do Douro are in high demand, as are the surrounding Douro wine regions. Dynamic university towns such as Braga and Guimarães are also attracting growing interest from foreign investors.

Don Louis I Bridge, Porto

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4. Alentejo – 10% :

Alentejo, located in south-central Portugal, accounts for around 10% of foreign investment in the country. This picturesque rural region is appreciated for its rolling landscapes, historic villages and tranquil pace of life. More and more foreigners are attracted to the Alentejo to invest in charming properties, such as restored farmhouses, wine estates and country houses, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Villa Feria also works in this area and can help you with your investment project.

Porto Covo, Alentejo

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5. Other Regions – 15% :

Apart from the main regions mentioned above, around 15% of foreign investment in Portugal is spread across other locations throughout the country. These include diverse destinations such as the island of Madeira, the coastal regions of central Portugal, as well as historic towns and unspoilt villages. These regions often offer unique investment opportunities, from coastal properties to rural estates and character properties.

Peniche

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In conclusion: the curious Lisbon

Portugal clearly continues to attract a growing number of foreign investors, drawn by its favorable climate, high quality of life and attractive investment opportunities. While certain regions such as the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto remain popular choices, other locations across the country are also beginning to gain in popularity with international investors. By providing percentages, we’ve been able to highlight Portugal’s diverse appeal as a property investment destination for foreigners. Contact us, we’re property hunters who can help you with your investment in this wonderful country.

Ready to overcome your fears of expatriation and meet us in Portugal?

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You’d like to rent a car in Portugal, but you’re lost in the steps, the sites, the choices… This article will help you!

I’m going to be very clear with you: if your stay is just a few days and you’re staying in a big city like Porto or Lisbon, I’d advise you not to rent a car. It will be more of a hassle than anything else: traffic, parking, narrow streets, the stress of not knowing where you’re going, not understanding all the signs in Portuguese… So, if you’re staying in a big city, opt for public transport: tramway, funicular, metro … but also scooters, bicycles, tuk tuk… In fact, if you can, I’d advise you to use your little legs to explore the Portuguese city of your choice.

On the other hand, if you’re planning to visit the outskirts of a large city, or even better, to discover several towns / villages in Portugal, renting a car in Portugal will be an essential option to optimize your stay and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the beauty of this lovely country.

But renting a car in Portugal … like anywhere else for that matter, isn’t always easy. There are many different rental companies, different prices, multiple options… It’s easy to get lost! Here are the essential points you need to know before renting a car in Portugal.

When, where and how to rent a car in Portugal?

1 – WHEN TO BOOK

The first thing you need to bear in mind, and I’m not going to teach you anything, is that, just as with house rentals or plane tickets, car rental prices in Portugal vary according to the time of year. During the school vacations, and especially in summer, prices skyrocket. This is the famous law of supply and demand. Rates in July and August are up to 5 times higher than in the off-peak period. So the earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have, and the more affordable the rates.

2 – WHERE TO BOOK?

It’s best to book in advance via the Internet. Booking through a travel agency is often more expensive, as they charge a commission.

3 – HOW TO DO YOUR RESEARCH?

First of all, do your research via a car rental comparison site. Even if you don’t end up renting your vehicle via this platform, it’s still a good idea to get an overview of all the rental companies’ services and rates. Comparators include(but are not limited to) :

• autoeurope.fr
• rentalcars.com
• autoportugal.fr
• bcp-auto.com
• kayak.fr
• liligo.fr

Once you’ve chosen your comparator, how do I proceed?

1. enter your pick-up and drop-off location, date and time (check the box if you are under 26),
2. the comparator will activate and suggest various car rentals in Portugal from a wide range of rental companies : Hertz, Sixt, Goldcar, Budget, Alamo, Europcar, Guerin …. So many to choose from, it’s easy to get lost.
3. in that case, use the filters provided by the comparators, so that only the searches that match your needs come up. These filters vary considerably from one comparator to another, but roughly speaking, you’ll find: the category of vehicle you want, the mileage you want, the options you want (automatic or manual), the price range you want…
4. once you’ve entered these filters, you’ll be presented with a new selection that includes only those cars that match your filters. It’s at this point that you’ll need to take a close look at a number of points that we’ll cover in this article.

Example of a car rental comparison site, here rentalcars.com

What you need to know to rent a car in Portugal

1 – CHOOSING THE TYPE OF VEHICLE

The type of vehicle you choose depends on a number of factors:

• the number of people in your party,
• the amount of luggage you have,
• your budget,
• the city or cities you’ll be visiting.

I’d like to draw your attention to the last point. As mentioned in the introduction, if you’re going to the centers of big cities like Lisbon or Porto, traffic and parking can quickly become complicated in historic centers, so I advise you to choose a small car if you can so as not to have too many constraints. I’d also recommend choosing accommodation with a parking lot, as finding parking can be complicated in some areas, and the cost of parking can quickly mount up, especially as EMEL, the company that controls parking payments, is everywhere and very often.

Also, bear in mind that when you reserve a car, you’re choosing a category of vehicle, not a specific model. For example, your reservation photo might be of a FIAT 500, but you end up with a TWINGO. It’s on the day of your rental that you’ll find out which vehicle you’ve been offered.

Car rental parking

2 – FILLING UP

The three most common fuel policies are

• tank full – return tank empty,
• tank full – tank full (the most common and recommended),
• return with same fuel level, you pick up the car with XX fuel level and you have to return the car with the same level.

I strongly advise you to choose the Tank full / Tank full option, the most common. This means that you pick up the car with a full tank of fuel and return the car with a full tank (you fill up just before returning the vehicle at a gas station – many gas stations are located near Portuguese airports)

Why choose this option? It’s the simplest option, and choosing full tank/empty tank means that when the rental company collects the vehicle, it will charge you for a full tank, often at an exorbitant price.

3 – MILEAGE

When you rent a car, you’ll be offered 2 mileage options:

• unlimited mileage (most common),
• mileage limited to xxx km

Make sure you have opted for unlimited mileage. Choosing limited mileage can be restrictive. If you exceed it, you’ll be overcharged for every kilometer, and that can quickly add up.

4 – DRIVER

If you have several drivers, be sure to add them to the rental contract when you collect the vehicle. The first additional driver is often free. All drivers must have their driving licenses with them.

Please note that if you are under 21 (and sometimes even under 26), you are often considered a “young driver”. Some rental companies refuse to rent vehicles to drivers under 21, or charge higher rates if the driver does not have a certain number of years’ driving experience.

5 – PAGES

Don’t forget to take out the “Via Verde” option with the rental company. This costs around €2 per day, up to a maximum of €18 for long-term rentals. The Via Verde is a box that allows you to pay both normal and electronic tolls in Portugal (more on this subject in my article 5 ways to pay your tolls in Portugal). It allows you to pay all tolls in Portugal, as well as passing through VIA VERDE lanes at toll booths, without stopping. You pay all tolls when you return the vehicle to the rental company.

Tolls

6 – VEHICLE CONDITION

You’re going to tell me that “this is the basics”, but both rental company and customer don’t always do it very well. Checking the condition of your vehicle before you start your rental is essential. Pay attention! Hirers tend to be very quick, and you, on the other hand, are so anxious to explore the city that you don’t spend much time on it either. And yet this “check-in” is important to avoid any unpleasant surprises on return. So take the time to examine your vehicle from every angle, and ask the rental company to indicate this on the vehicle condition report.

7 – WHERE IS MY RENTAL COMPANY LOCATED?

If you’re renting your car at an airport, I’d advise you to check where the rental agency is located. Very often, rental companies are not located in the airport. They’re often located in a nearby area, so you’ll have to wait for the shuttle, then the shuttle, then the queue to pick up your vehicle. The two options you’ll often see on comparators are :

• “shuttle service”, which means that the rental company is not located at the airport but a few kilometers away.
• “in the terminal” or “at the airport”, which means that the rental company is located at the airport.

Above, one of the rentals is directly in the airport but the second driver is not free, while the other rental is not directly in the airport but offers a free 2nd driver.

8 – INSURANCE

When renting a car in Portugal… or anywhere else for that matter… you need to think carefully about insurance. Don’t forget to include the cost of insurance in your budget: you should expect to pay around €10 a day for a no-deductible policy that you take out locally. So your rental budget can quickly climb.

If you pay with a Visa Premier, Gold Mastercard or black Visa Infinitecard , your card’s insurance usually covers the deductible. But be sure to check your bank’s terms and conditions beforehand.

If you don’t have this type of card, it’s advisable to take out no-deductible insurance, which means you won’t have to pay the deductible in the event of a problem. You can choose to take out this insurance:

• directly via the broker (= the comparison site on which you rent, for example). The advantage is that the price of this insurance is 2 to 3 times less expensive than if you take out the rental company’s insurance directly on the spot, but the disadvantage is that in the event of a problem, you’ll have to ask the broker’s insurance company for reimbursement, and this can take a long time.
• on the spot with the rental company on the day of rental: the cost is higher, but reimbursement is quicker in the event of a problem.

In both cases, bear in mind that the excess is blocked on your credit card when you pick up the vehicle, and this deposit can vary from €1,000 to €3,000. So be sure to check your credit card limit before you leave.

Last but not least, it’s very important to check your bank card, as I often see people with this problem on the Amoureux du Portugal Facebook group. Make sure you have a bank card with embossed numbers (= credit card). This is how rental agencies can take your credit card imprint. Debit cards (those without embossed numbers) will not be accepted, and you won’t be able to collect your vehicle on arrival if you don’t have a credit card (the one with the embossed numbers).

Insurance option

In conclusion

We’ve given you an overview of the things you need to know before renting a car in Portugal. Of course, this article is not exhaustive, and it may be relevant to pay attention to some other small items such as :

• the cleanliness of your rental car on return,
• respecting the drop-off time to avoid the rental company charging you for an extra day,
• customer reviews to give you an idea of the rental company’s quality,
• any options you might want to consider: child seat, GPS, wifi, etc.

Once you’ve found a rental that appeals to you via the comparator, I advise you to go directly to the brand’s website to see if the price is better if you book via the comparator or on the brand’s website directly.  Example: A quick trip to sites like Europcar, Sixt or Budget to make sure you pay the best price, may be worth it.

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Whether you’re a fan of idleness, water sports or simply looking for a quiet getaway by the sea, Portugal’s beaches offer a variety of unforgettable experiences. With its sunny climate, clear waters and magnificent scenery, Portugal is one of Europe’s must-visit beach destinations.

There are so many beaches in Portugal that we couldn’t possibly list them all, but now that summer has arrived, I’ve decided to share a few of my “favorites” with you.

Some of the beaches in Portugal we’ll be talking about in this article

The post 10 beaches in Portugal: sun, sand and relaxation appeared first on Villa Feria.

Because this magnificent region, full of contrasts, with its seashores, historic villages and castles, is so vast. In fact, it stretches for 280 km along the Atlantic coast! Many people, however, think that the Silver Coast comprises only a few towns above Lisbon, or that it stretches from Ericeira to Figueira da Foz, but this is not the case. The Silver Coast stretches more or less from the town of Espinho, 30 km south of Porto, to the town of Peniche, some 100 km north of Lisbon

1. A region to delight history and culture buffs

The Silver Coast region ( Costa de Prata), as its name suggests, has a lot of coastline and therefore a lot of beautiful beaches (as we’ll see later). However, it would be a shame to stop there, as this region has even more to offer. In fact, it boasts a rich cultural heritage, with so many treasures that some of its towns have even been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites – no mean accolade! Don’t you agree? Here are 4 of these sites that are well worth a visit

• Batalha Monastery : Built to commemorate the Portuguese victory over the Castilians at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, this is an imposing monastery. I particularly recommend a visit to the imperfect chapel and the royal cloister, where you’ll find the tomb of the unknown soldier.
• The Convent of Christ in Tomar is a symbol of the reconquest of Portuguese territory under Muslim rule. The huge convent surrounding the Templar church includes four magnificent cloisters.
• Alcobaça monastery : the church houses the tombs of King Dom Pedro and Ines de Castro, lady-in-waiting to his wife Constança Manuel, whose forbidden love affair has inspired numerous books.
• The University of Coimbra and its famous library, which inspired Harry Potter writer JK Rowling to create the Hogwarts library.

The Silver Coast also boasts a number of fortified towns and castles, including

• the castle on the tiny island of Almourol,
• porto de Mos Castle
• ourém Castle
• montemor or velho castle,
• pombal Castle.

2. A region of tranquility

The Silver Coast offers a wide choice of beautiful beaches, which have the advantage of being a little less talked-about than the beaches of the Algarve or those near Lisbon. Mass tourism is therefore less prevalent, offering greater tranquillity and a more marked presence of Portuguese habits and customs

From north to south of the Silver Coast, you’ll find, among many others, the beautiful beaches of Furadouro, Costa Nova, Mira, Quaios, Figueira da Foz, Nazaré, São Martinho do Porto, Foz do Arelho, Baleal , Peniche… And to find out even more about Portugal’s beaches, don’t miss my article dedicated to beaches

You can swim on these different beaches, but you should be aware that the sea is often rough – it’s still the Atlantic Ocean! The waves found in this region offer surfing and kitesurfing aficionados some fantastic spots, including the world-famous Nazaré spot (which we ‘ll talk about a little later in the article ). Of course, not all of us are wave lovers, and if you’re not, or if you’re with young children, I’d recommend the beach at Foz do Arelho. Here, you can see the Obidos lagoon, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean, offering beaches with calm waters on one side and ocean beaches on the other, ideal for those who want waves

The beach at São Martinho do Porto is also renowned as ideal if you have children. Indeed, the beach is located in a semi-circular bay ( you can see the pretty, atypical shape of this bay in the photo below ), which offers calm waters

Porto

For those who prefer land to sea, the region also offers numerous hiking trails and some twenty golf courses spread throughout the region: Óbidos, Consolação, Asseiceira, Vimeiro or Turcifa ..

3. Fine weather, but no extremes of temperature

If you decide to move to Portugal, one of the reasons may be the weather. That’s right! In everyone’s mind, Portugal rhymes with sunshine. So you probably want to live in the sun, and therefore choose a sunny region. Many will tell you that for sunshine you have to go “south”, and will almost instantly point you towards the Lisbon and Algarve regions

So, yes, sunshine and temperatures are higher in the south of Portugal. As in France, the further south you go, the warmer and sunnier it gets. However, you mustn’t forget that Portugal is to the south of France ( and at this point you’re thinking, “she’s really good at geography!” ) ) The northern regions of Portugal and the Silver Coast are, admittedly, a little less sunny and warm than those in southern Portugal, but they are still much sunnier and warmer than in France, Belgium or other countries further north

All the more so for those who can’t stand “extreme” temperatures, this “central” region of Portugal enjoys pleasant daytime temperatures of around 30 degrees in summer and around 15 degrees in winter (except in a few towns on the Silver Coast that are further inland, where temperatures can be more extreme)

Finally, as far as the weather is concerned, you should know that you’re on the Atlantic coast! You have the privilege of living close to the ocean, but on the other hand, you can sometimes experience sea fog and a slightly windier, wetter climate than if you lived inland. But then again, you have to be prepared for a few sacrifices when you’re lucky enough to live by the sea, don’t you think?

4. A region ideally situated between two major cities

Another advantage of the Silver Coast is that it lies between the capital, Lisbon, and its little sister, Porto. These major cities are therefore easily accessible, thanks to the many motorway networks that criss-cross the Silver Coast. In fact, as you can see from the section I’ve activated below, the A1, A8, A17 and A29 motorways from north to south, and the A25, A23 and A14 from east to west, intertwine in the heart of the Côte d’Argent, providing quick access to numerous destinations. So you can go anywhere in just a few hours and discover different places with different climates, cultures and points of interest

5. More affordable real estate and cost of living

The fact that Portugal’s Silver Coast is less well-known and touristy than the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto regions has an impact on the cost of living and property prices, which are more affordable here than in other regions

Portugal’s Silver Coast is very extensive, so prices can vary, but you’ll easily find a complete dish with fish or meat and several side dishes for 10 euros, when it will cost around 15 euros in other regions

Property prices per m2 are also much lower than in other regions. Whereas in the Algarve, the average price per m2 is around 3100 euros, and in Lisbon 5300m2, the price per m2 in the Côte d’Argent can be almost halved or tripled, with an average of 1800€/m2

Below are the average prices per m2 of real estate in certain towns on the Silver Coast ( please note that these are average prices per m2 and vary according to the type of property you have selected, source: arkadia )

• 600€/m2 in Nazaré
• 2,73 0€/m2 in Nazaré
• 2,475/m2 in Coimbra
• 1,600/m2 in Leiria
• 2,680/m2 in Figueira da foz
• 1,920/m2 in Alcobaça
• 2,230/m2 in Caldas da Rainha

For more information on properties in the region, please contact us on 33 7 67 57 58 40 or info@villaferia.com and our property hunter Vera Lopes will be delighted to advise you

6. Living on Portugal’s silver coast means discovering towns with a wealth of attractions

In preparing this article, I realized that one of the great assets of this region is the wealth of towns it comprises. These cities are divided into 3 districts: Aveiro, Coimbra and Leiria

In fact, this region is made up of numerous towns with different charms, but above all, all filled with a distinct culture, history and wealth, as I gave you an overview of at the start of this article. This mix of towns means there’s something for everyone. Some with their castles, others with their crafts, with their vineyards … It would be impossible and tedious to list here all the towns of the great Costa de Prata, however, here are five ( among many others ) that authorize a detour

• Aveiro, with:

1. Its “moliceiros ” ( typical boats ): if you’re taking a trip to Aveiro, don’t forget to hop aboard one of the pretty boats that cruise the city’s canals, earning it the nickname “Venice of Portugal”.
2. Its “house-pyjamas ” ( also known as “palheiros “): near Aveiro, in Costa Nova, by the sea, you can admire beautiful houses with colorful stripes.
3. Its “ovos moles”: an egg-and-sugar-based pastry that I talked about in more detail in my article on gastronomy, which you can find by clicking here.

• Caldas da Rainha, with :

1. Its thermal springs: Caldas da Rainha means “Queen’s Spring” in reference to Queen D. Leonor. The town’s hot springs give it the status of a spa town, where the world’s first thermal hospital was built. Classy!
2. The art of ceramics: The Silver Coast region has a strong tradition of craftsmanship, particularly in ceramics, one of the national emblems of which is Rafael Bordallo Pinheiro’s factory in Caldas da Rainha. The town is famous for its “louça das caldas” ( spring crockery ), made from ceramics with a variety of motifs: vine leaves, snails… Caldas da Rainha’s craftsmanship is also known for what is popularly called “caralhos”, ceramics with more “particular” motifs that can make you smile, as you can see in the photo below. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting your tableware 😉

Craftsmen painting “caralhos” in Caldas da Rainha.

• Nazaré, with :

1. Its huge waves: The town is famous for its waves, which are caught by surfers from all over the world. In October 2020, it was in Nazaré that German surfer Sebastian Steudtner broke the world record for the biggest wave ever surfed, taming a 26.20-meter wave. He then beat the record held since 2017 by Brazilian Rodrigo Koxa on a 24.40-meter wave, also in Nazaré.
2. The exceptional view from the site : For a magnificent panorama of the ocean and Nazaré beach, I strongly recommend climbing to the promontory at the top of the town. One thing’s for sure, you won’t be disappointed by this breathtaking view.
3. Its fishermen, a deep-rooted tradition: A former fishing village, Nazaré is still a very typical sight. Here you can see fishermen and their wives, dressed in traditional costumes, gutting, drying and selling fish on the beach. 100% zero intermediaries: from the sea to your plate!

The Sitio in Nazaré at sunset. No waves that day!

• Obidos, with :

1. Its village is sure to charm you: you have to go there to discover the special atmosphere that emanates from this place. A village surrounded by a wall. Within it, narrow cobbled streets are interspersed with small houses of immaculate white with a touch of blue or yellow.
2. Its two not-to-be-missed events: The first, the International Chocolate Festival ( usually held at the end of April ), is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. The second event, also well known and not to be missed in this city, is the Christmas festivities, where the decorations, illuminations and animations are a favorite with the Portuguese.

In the streets of Óbidos.

• Barge, with :

1. Its fortress: Europe’s most westerly city boasts an ancient fortress overlooking the port, from which you can see the pretty Berlengas Islands.
2. Its “Caldeirada de peixe”: a delicious fish bouillabaisse that is the town’s specialty.
3. Its “Renda de Bilros”: the town is famous for its bobbin lace, a craft that has been perpetuated over the years, and which is very interesting to observe, as the meticulous work is remarkable.

Bobbin lace.

In conclusion

Portugal’s Silver Coast is synonymous with “douceur de vivre”. Lesser-known and therefore quieter than its neighbors, it is home to a wide variety of riches, both in the towns near the ocean and inland. If you’re curious, you won’t have time to get bored as this region has so many treasures to discover!

If you’d like to settle down on the Côte d’Argent, don’t hesitate to contact us. Villa Feria and its property hunters will be delighted to help you with your project in Portugal. See you soon!

Why not let yourself be seduced by the gentle pace of life on Portugal’s silver coast?

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The post Why live on Portugal’s Silver Coast? 6 good reasons. appeared first on Villa Feria.

Customs and traditions are very important in Portugal. They represent the cultural heritage and history of the Portuguese people. They are vectors of social cohesion for the entire Portuguese people. Discovering Portuguese customs and traditions during your stay in Portugal will give you an insight into the “real” Portugal, and you won’t regret it.

1 – Customs and traditions in Portugal: traditional Portuguese dances

From the north to the south of the country, traditional dances are popular and omnipresent. They are part of Portugal’s customs and traditions. They express the soul of each region. Among the most famous regional dances are :

• Chula du Douro,
• Vira from Minho,
• Corridinho from the Algarve,
• Fandango from Ribatejo,
• Bailinho from Madeira,

Corridinho d’Algarve @villasalgarve (top photo) – Chula du Douro @danceask.net (bottom photo)

But also :

• Pauliteiros de Miranda: This is a group of 8 men from the Miranda region, who dance to the sound of bagpipes, drums and castanets. They wear embroidered skirts, linen shirts, fur collars, leather boots, woollen socks and hats, and use two sticks (called “palos”) to dance.

Pauliteiros de Miranda @ncultura.pt

• Caretos de Podence: These are characters from the northeast Transmontano and Alto Douro regions, dating back to Celtic times. During Carnival, the men wear red, yellow, green or black masks made of leather, wood or brass, and brightly colored costumes with wool bangs. Their outfits are complemented by bells worn on their belts.

Caretos de Podence @lefigaro

2 -Customsand traditions in Portugal: azulejos

On the blog, on Facebook, on Instagram, I often talk about azulejos. I completely fell in love with them when I arrived here in Portugal. Azulejos are an indisputable part of Portuguese heritage.

The term azulejo comes from the Arabic word “az- zuleij “, meaning “polished stone”. Azulejos were introduced to Portugal by Spain in the 15th century, which itself was discovered by the Moors.

You’ll see them on building facades, since azulejos were originally used to protect houses from the heat: a kind of insulator. Its waterproof, hard-wearing and thermal qualities make it an ideal material for interior and exterior wall cladding in Portuguese homes.

If you get the chance, I recommend a visit to an azulejo factory to see how it’s made. It’s also in these factories that I recommend you buy some, because of the quality of the work. I really like the azulejo factory in Azeitão and the Orey store in Lisbon.

Azulejos

3 -Customsand traditions in Portugal: handicrafts

Each region has its own art, handed down from generation to generation, which forms part of the customs and traditions of Portugal. These include :

• Arraiolos rugs: Arraiolos is a village just north of Évora, where women traditionally produced rugs. These Arraiolos carpets are handmade, without looms, and are patterned after Persian and Turkish rugs. In 1511, Portugal expelled the Moors, but the inhabitants had already assimilated the knowledge of embroidery and carpet-making. They continued to produce these magnificent rugs, with many workshops based in convents. Even today, Arraiolos rugs retain the original Persian structure: large motifs symbolizing the living, four pieces representing the four elements, and various theological references. In great demand by the aristocracy in the 18th century, carpets were used to protect and decorate floors, but also to display wealth. These magnificent carpets are not inexpensive, as they are handmade, the motifs being embroidered stitch by stitch on canvas or linen.

• Portuguese filigree: a jewelry tradition from Viana do Castelo. Filigree is an ornamental work made of very fine wires and tiny metal balls, welded together to form a pattern. These pieces are easily found in northern Portugal, where they are featured on the costumes of folk dance groups and on traditional wedding dresses. If you’re passing through Viana do Castelo, I recommend a visit to the Gold Museum and the Costume Museum.

• Cork: in Portugal, you’ll find cork objects in every souvenir store. Most of Portugal’s cork oak forests ( montados in Portuguese ) are found in the Alentejo region. Cork oak is used extensively in Portugal, where half the world’s cork comes from. Cork is used to make a wide range of products, from wine bottle stoppers to bags, wallets, hats, shoes and umbrellas. Today, you can even find cork sofas!

• ” Lenços dos namorados “, which can be translated as “lovers’ scarves”: the origin of this piece is the subject of various interpretations, with the first two-coloured handkerchiefs (black and red) appearing in the mid-19th century, when, in rural areas, some men of marriageable age began wearing them as accessories (probably as gifts from their sweethearts). Legend has it that a young girl, who had feelings for a boy, saw no other way to express her love than by embroidering on scarves, confessing, in words transcribed by thread and needle, everything she felt. This is where the name “lovers’ handkerchief” comes from.

Arraiolos @lisbonneaffinitées rugs (top left) – “Lenços dos namorados @portugalenfrançais (top right) – Portuguese watermark @imagesofportugal (bottom left) – Cork @monviti (bottom right)

4 – Customs and traditions in Portugal: Fado

Fado is the symbol of customs and traditions in Portugal. It’s a musical genre that dates back to the 1820s. It is characterized by sad themes that speak of fate, disappointment in love, sadness, unhappiness, the lives of sailors and fishermen, and above all, saudade. Saudade, that untranslatable word. Saudade is a kind of longing, conveying a complex mixture of nostalgia, sadness, pain, happiness and love.

There are two main varieties of Fado, named after the two cities where it was traditionally sung: Lisbon and Coimbra. The Lisbon style is the more popular, while the Coimbra style is considered more refined. Modern Fado is popular in Portugal. The best-known fadistas are Amália Rodrigues, Carminho, Mariza and Ana Moura.

Fado is a unique genre of music, traditionally sung with a single voice and accompanied by a guitar. Fado came to public attention in the 1930s and 1940s, mainly thanks to Amália Rodrigues. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011.

Fado @istock

5 –Customs and traditions in Portugal: canteAlentejano

Totally different from fado, captivating and unique, cante alentejano was recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO in 2014. Cante Alentejano uses no musical instruments, the voice being the only component of this tradition. The lyrics speak of feelings and moments of daily life, and the singing became particularly popular from the end of the 19th century onwards.

Cante alentejano (polyphonic song from Portugal’s Alentejo region) is similar to American gospel music. It focuses on the harsh life in the fields of Alentejo, an agricultural region that is arid in summer and very cold in winter.

Cante alentejano @nit.pt

6 –Customs and traditions in Portugal: the roosterof Barcelos

Located on the route to Santiago de Compostela, Barcelos is a small town in northern Portugal. The town is best known for its famous rooster legend. The rooster has become one of the symbols of Portugal.

Legend has it that several crimes took place in Barcelos at the time, but no culprit was ever caught. One man, on his way to Santiago de Compostela, was found guilty by the court without evidence. He claimed his innocence, and went to see the judge. Seeing a rooster near him, the accused told the judge: “It’s just as true that I’m innocent as that your cooked rooster will rise and crow when I’m hanged! On the day of the man’s execution, the rooster crowed and the judge realized that the accused was indeed innocent. The judge ran to the place where the man had been hanged. As a result of the knot being tied incorrectly, the man escaped execution, was found innocent and set free.

Rooster of Barcelos @livingtours

In conclusion

The customs and traditions in Portugal mentioned in this article are just a sample of all those that exist in Portugal. These are truly part of Portugal’s heritage, and it’s well worth getting to know them. There are also the festivities and romarias, which are widely celebrated and deeply rooted in Portuguese customs and traditions. To find out more about these popular festivals, I invite you to read or reread my article: Popular festivals in Portugal

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• Facebook group “Amoureux du Portugal”,
• Vivre au Portugal” Facebook page
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The post The next 5 must-see popular festivals in Portugal appeared first on Villa Feria.

“Quer contribuinte na fatura?” You’ll soon be familiar with this question, which is systematically asked when you pay in Portugal: in restaurants, when shopping, in stores… In short, everywhere!

This question is asked to find out if you want your “numero de contribuinte ” (the famous Portuguese tax number also known as “NIF ” which I often talk about, particularly in this article) to be mentioned on your invoice/checkout slip.

This measure was introduced in 2013 by the Portuguese government to combat tax evasion and the black market. Tax benefits were introduced to encourage Portuguese consumers to request an invoice with their NIF.

1 – Why give your NIF when you spend in Portugal?

1. To benefit from a tax credit :

The main reason to give your NIF when shopping in Portugal is to benefit from tax reductions based on your spending. You can reclaim up to €250 per category of expenditure. There are different categories of expenditure in Portugal, for example “catering”, “health”, “transport”, “leisure”, “education”, “hairdresser”..

Existing expense categories

there are maximum tax refund amounts per category. Once the ceiling has been reached, you cannot claim a higher refund in the category in question. The category called “Despesas Gerais Familiares” (general family expenses) is where all “general” expenses go, so the ceiling is often reached fairly quickly, but you can easily move your purchases to other categories later on. For example, if you spend money in supermarkets, you can move them to the “Restauração” (catering) category. This will give you up to €250 in additional tax refunds.

After a whole year, the amount recovered can be substantial, and will be deducted from your tax bill. If you accumulate expenses in different categories, you can expect to earn up to €1,000. Given that taxes in Portugal are deducted at source, you may well find that the government gives you money back as a result of the spending you’ve done throughout the year. So spend! 🙂

2. Win the tax lottery:

Also, to encourage people to ask for a bill and combat the black market, the Portuguese government is holding prize draws via bill numbers . Yes, you read that right… tax lotteries! They call it “fatura da sorte” (the lucky bill). Invoices are drawn at random and the winners receive cash or cars.

The tax authorities award 1 “fatura da Sorte” ticket for every €10 spent. Example: if you spend 80€, you’ll receive 8 “fatura da Sorte” tickets.

The “fatura da Sorte” provides for 1 draw per week, called the “regular draw”, and 2 draws per half-year (between June and December) called the “extraordinary draw”. The results of the draws are published on the Portuguese tax website in the “Fatura da sorte” section.

Tax site with announcement of December 29 winner

2 – How do I know if my expenses in Portugal are properly recorded and qualify for a tax credit?

Normally this is done automatically. You give your contribinte number every time you make a purchase, and your expenses in Portugal are then recorded. But in practice, when you give your tax number (NIF) to the merchant or service provider, this does not mean that your invoice is automatically validated. It’s important to check that your invoices are registered on the tax website (Portal das finanças).

1. Check that your expenses in Portugal are registered on the Portuguese tax site:

To check that your invoices are registered, go to the Portuguese tax site www.portaldasfinanças.pt, log in and access the electronic invoicing area. To do this, you need to :

• Click on “Iniciar sessao” then enter your NIF and password on Portal das Finanças,
• In “Serviços Frequentes“, click on “E-faturas”,
• Then “Verificar Faturas” at the bottom,

If not all your invoices are registered, you can register them yourself.

Connect to the Portuguese Finance website

2. Register your invoices on the Portuguese tax site:

• Click on “Iniciar sessao”, then enter your NIF and password on Portal das Finanças,
• In “Serviços Frequentes”, click on “E-faturas”,
• Then“Registar Faturas” at the bottom,
• A page will open with your NIF and full name,
• Fill in your invoice details,
• Click on“registrar” once you’ve filled in all the fields.

Register an invoice

In conclusion

The use of the NIF is ubiquitous in Portugal, both for your expenses in Portugal, as you will have seen in this article, and for any formalities you may wish to carry out in Portugal. In fact, obtaining your NIF is the number 1 administrative formality you need to complete if you want to settle in Portugal. Contact us and we’ll help you with the formalities. I’ll tell you more about it in this blog post.

Join us on social networks!

• Facebook group “Amoureux du Portugal”,
• Vivre au Portugal” Facebook page
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The post How to earn money and cars with your expenses in Portugal? appeared first on Villa Feria.

• Cascais, a coastal town with beautiful beaches,
• Sintra, a historic town with castles, palaces and enchanting gardens,
• Nazaré, home to surfers from all over the world,
• Setúbal, a fishing town with heavenly coves,
• Óbidos, a fortified town with medieval ramparts and charming cobbled streets,
• Évora, a medieval city with a rich cultural heritage.

1 – Cascais, the pretty seaside resort

Cascais is a coastal town about 30 km north of Lisbon, and is one of Portugal’s must-visit cities if you’re staying or living in Lisbon. It’s a popular spot for Portuguese and tourists alike, with small beaches, golf courses, bars and restaurants. There’s also a marina for boaters. Back in the day, Cascais and neighboring Estoril were popular vacation destinations for Portuguese royalty and European aristocracy. If you go to Cascais, take the opportunity to visit :

• Cabo da Roca (Cape of Rock): the westernmost point of the European continent. A place that Luís Vaz de Camões, the famous Portuguese poet, defined as a place “where the land ends and the sea begins”. It’s a small place, so getting there doesn’t take very long, but it’s worth the detour for its symbolism. Until the discovery of America, it was thought that there was nothing beyond “Cabo da Roca” in Portugal.
• Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth): located a little outside the town of Cascais, on the way to Sintra, right next to Cabo da Roca. Here you’ll see the waves slamming into the rock, forming an arch or rather a stone “mouth” in which the waves bubble up in a hellish fashion, hence the name “Boca do Inferno”.

How do I get to Cascais from Lisbon?

• By train: 30 minutes from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station
• By car: approx. 35 minutes (the avenue along the seafront is much nicer than the A5 freeway)

Cascais. Photo credit: @voyageprive @theportablewife

2 – Sintra, an enchanting town

Sintra is a historic town about 30 km north of Lisbon, renowned for its palaces and listed as aUNESCO World Heritage Site in the cultural landscape category in 1995.

The most famous monument is the Palacio daPena, an incredible castle built in the 19th century on a hill overlooking the region. The Palacio da Pena is one of Sintra’s main attractions. This romantic castle was built in the 19th century and is an example of the picturesque architecture that was very popular at the time. Thanks to its bright colors, predominantly yellow and red, and its distinctive structure, the building has become a symbol of the town and an icon of Portuguese architecture.

Other important monuments include the Palacio National de Sintra, the Castelo dos Mouros (the ruins of a medieval castle) and the Quinta da Regaleira (a garden complex with grottoes, waterfalls and statues)

How do I get to Sintra from Lisbon?

• By train : 40 minutes from Lisbon’s Rossio station
• By car: approx. 40 minutes

Palacio da Pena in Sintra

3 – Nazaré, the town of giant waves

Nazaré is a small Portuguese seaside town, situated around 130 km north of Lisbon between green hills and the Atlantic Ocean. Nazaré is divided into three parts: Praia, Sitio, and Pederneira. Nazaré is renowned for its beaches, its cultural life and its traditional architecture, but above all for its waves, among the biggest in the world, which attract numerous professional and amateur surfers every winter from October to February.

Where is the best place to watch the giant waves in Nazaré? These giant waves take place on Nazaré’s Praia do Norte. The best place to watch them is on the Sítio da Nazaré, next to the lighthouse on Nazaré’s north side. To reach the Sítio, located on the hill above, take the Nazaré funicular. It departs from Largo do Elevador in the Praia.

How do I get to Nazaré from Lisbon?

• By bus: from Lisbon’s Sete Rios station with Rede Expressos
• By car: approx. 1h30

Nazaré. Photo credit: @ArturCarvalho

4 – Setúbal, a small fishing town with turquoise coves

Setúbal is a port town located some 50 km south of Lisbon. Setúbal is famous for its variety of fish restaurants, which bring fish fresh out of the ocean onto your plate. There’s also the protected Serra da Arrabida nature park between Setúbal and Sesimbra, home to some of Portugal’s most beautiful coves, as well as numerous dolphins. If you’re ever in Setúbal, don’t miss :

• Visit the Mercado do Livramento : a must-see covered market,
• Explore the Serra da Arrábida natural park, with its turquoise coves and magnificent cliffs overlooking the ocean..
• Visit the Castelo de São Filipe overlooking the town,
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches close to the city, such as Praia de Galapinhos (one of the 40 most beautiful in Europe, according to The Guardian),
• Taste the famous choco frito (fried cuttlefish), cheese from Setúbal’s neighboring town of Azeitão and caldeirada, a delicious fish stew.

How do I get to Setúbal from Lisbon?

• By train: approx. 40 min, from Lisbon’s Roma-Areeiro station – private company Fertagus
• By car: approx. 40 minutes

Setúbal. Photo credit: @vagamundos

5 – Obidos and its fortress

Óbidos is a fortified town about 80 km north of Lisbon. The town of Óbidos is surrounded by a medieval rampart that offers a breathtaking view of the town and its surroundings. Here you’ll find its medieval castle, now used as a hotel, and its main square, surrounded by colorful houses with red-tiled roofs. There are also many historic monuments to visit, such as the Church of Santa Maria, the Santiago Gate and the Menagem Tower.

The town is also famous for its Christmas market, which I describe in the article Christmas Market in Portugal, and for its local chocolates. Indeed, if you visit Óbidos, be sure to try the “ginja de Óbidos”, which is cherry alcohol (also known as “ginjinha”) served in a chocolate shell.

How do I get to Obidos from Lisbon?

• By car: approx. 1h10

Obidos. Photo credit: @annieanywhere

6 – Evora and its bone-filled chapel

Evora is a medieval town about 130 km south of Lisbon. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and historical ensemble. Places not to be missed include :

• Évora Cathedral, dating from the 12th century,
• The Temple of Diana, a Roman temple built in the 1st century
• The Capela dos Ossos, a chapel decorated with human bones and surely Evora’s most famous monument. The macabre charm of this chapel, decorated with over 5,000 human bones, creates a special atmosphere that attracts many curious visitors.

How do I get to Evora from Lisbon?

• By car : approx. 1h30

Evora. Photo credit: @almadacomporta

In conclusion

As you can see, there are many Portuguese cities to visit not far from Lisbon. If you’re staying or living in Lisbon, escapes to discover the surrounding area are a must, as there are many pretty Portuguese towns within easy reach of the capital. Be curious, and don’t miss out, because believe me, you’re missing out!

Join us on social networks!

• Facebook group “Amoureux du Portugal”,
• Vivre au Portugal” Facebook page
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The post 6 Portuguese towns to visit near Lisbon appeared first on Villa Feria.

Are you ready for this “Battle” of Portuguese specialties? Go for it!

1 – Bifana VS Prego

Bifana

Bifana is one of Portugal’s must-try specialties. It’s a bread-based sandwich topped with thin slices of marinated pork and served hot. It’s considered a popular “street food”. It is often served in bars and small traditional Portuguese restaurants called “tasca”. This “on-the-go” dish is very popular with locals and tourists alike.

The story goes that bifana was invented in the 1920s by workers in Lisbon’s factories. The workers were looking for a quick, easy and inexpensive snack, and that’s how the bifana was born. The sandwich became very popular in the 1950s.

It is so popular in Portugal that for many years, fast-food giant Mc Donald’s offered the Mc Bifana in Portuguese Mc Donald’s.

Prego

Bifana’s main competitor is prego. It’s the same concept, but instead of pork, the bread contains beef. Prego can also be served on a plate, “prego no prato” (translation: prego on the plate), or in bread like bifana, in which case it’s called “prego no pão” (translation: prego in the bread). Depending on where you eat it, cheese is sometimes added to the beef.

Here’s my address for the best “prego no pão” in the world: “Casa dos pregos: venham mais 5”. As its name suggests, this tasca (small, typical restaurant) specializes in “prego”, and makes this clear with the slate on its sidewalk, which reads: “aqui come o melhor prego em pao do lombo boi com queijo da serra” (here we eat the best beef and cheese prego in bread).

Prego VS Bifana

2 – Francesinha VS Tosta Mista

Francesinha

Literally translated as “the little French girl”,Francesinha is the gourmet version of the French “Croque-Monsieur”. Made with bread, ham, linguiça(Portuguese sausage), cheese and sauce… As you’ll have gathered, it’s a dish that “keeps you going”.

The father of the francesinha, Mr Daniel Da Silva, was a chef who emigrated to France, and when he returned from Portugal, he created a Portuguese version of the croque-monsieur. He added typically Portuguese ingredients such as “linguiça” and, of course, the famous sauce whose recipe is kept “secret”.

This dish can be found all over the country, but Porto locals like to say that the best francesinhas are those from Porto. The “Verso em Pedra” restaurant in Porto even offers a challenge based around this dish. If you manage to eat a giant francesinha on your own in one hour, you win a guitar!

Tosta Mista

Although the francesinha is considered the alter ego of the French croque monsieur, for me the closest thing to the French croque monsieur is the francesinha’s competitor in Portugal, the tosta mista (pronounced “Touchta Michta”).

You’ll find tosta mista everywhere in Portugal! Everywhere! It’s bread: either sandwich bread (pão de forma) or farmhouse bread (pão saloio), topped with ham and cheese. It is then crushed in a heated press. For presentation, it is often cut into halves or thirds, and sometimes a little thyme is placed on top. The sandwich version of Tosta Mista is very similar to the famous French Croque-Monsieur, but without the béchamel sauce.

Tosta Mista VS Francesinha

3 – Arroz de pato VS Arroz de marisco

Arroz de pato

Arroz de pato ” is rice with duck. It’s one of Portugal’s northern specialties. The top is crispy and covered with “chouriço”. The Portuguese “chouriço” has a smoky taste, not the spicy Spanish “chorizo”. The great thing about this type of dish is that it’s very easy to make, and both young and old love it.

Arroz de pato is thought to have originated in Braga. It is often considered a festive dish or a family gathering. It is particularly popular in northern Portugal, where duck is abundant.

Arroz de marisco

Arroz de marisco is the “seafood” version of arroz de pato, and is a cousin of paella. The main difference with “paella” is that arroz de marisco is much moister than paella, and doesn’t include any meats: no chicken or chorizo.

It is a rice with shellfish, often a mixture of rice, shrimp, lobster, mussels, cockles, crab cakes…

This traditional dish, widely eaten in Portugal, originates from “praia da vieira”, in the Marinha Grande region, near Leiria(central Portugal).

I advise you to try this dish in its region of origin, but for those passing through Lisbon, I recommend the UMA restaurant in the Baixa Chiado district, whose specialty is this dish. However, you’ll have to be patient, as it’s a very small restaurant and it’s sometimes difficult to get a seat.

Arroz de marisco VS Arroz de pato

4 – Pasteis de bacalhau VS Rissois

Pasteis de bacalhau

Pasteis de bacalhau are a mixture of potatoes, eggs, parsley and onion fried in oil. They are shaped like a dumpling.

The birth of pastel de bacalhau is linked to the introduction of the potato in Portugal. In the southern half of Portugal, they are called “pastéis”, in the northern half “bolinhos”. It wasn’t until 1841 that the first recipe for cod in the form of “bolinho” or “pastel” was published, but not according to the current recipe for “pastéis de bacalhau”. It wasn’t until 1876 that two recipes similar to the current one appeared in João da Mata’s book “Arte de Cozinha” .

For those with a sweet tooth, I recommend you try the “casa Portuguesa do pastel de Bacalhau” recipe. These are pasteis de Bacalhau with cheese from the Serra da Estrela. Delicious! Yes, purists will take offense at the fact that cheese is added to pastel de Bacalhau, but it’s worth taking offense… because it’s a little nugget to be savored!

Rissois

The main competitors of pasteis de bacalhau are Rissois. Like pasteis de bacalhau, rissois are small fried snacks to be nibbled as an aperitif.

Rissois are small fried doughnuts, easily recognized by their half-moon shape. They come in a variety of flavors, the best known being rissóis de Camarão: shrimp fritters, and rissóis de Leitão: suckling pig fritters.

Pasteis de bacalhau VS Rissois

5 – Arroz doce VS Aletria

Arroz doce

When it comes to desserts, two ingredients are omnipresent in Portuguese cuisine: eggs and cinnamon! Arroz Doce is a perfect example. It’s a traditional Portuguese dessert consisting of rice cooked with milk, sugar and eggs, and often generously sprinkled with cinnamon.

The history ofarroz doce dates back to medieval times, when it was considered a festive and luxurious dish, reserved for the wealthy classes. It was often prepared for special occasions such as weddings and christenings. Over the centuries, it became more accessible to all social classes. Today, it’s a dessert you’ll find everywhere, all year round, but it’s particularly popular during festive occasions such as Christmas and Easter, as well as family gatherings.

There are many variations on this recipe, depending on the region of Portugal. Some regions add ingredients such as vanilla, raisins and almonds..

Aletria

Its competitor is thealetria, although this dessert is a little less well-known because it’s more rare. It is mainly found at Christmas time in Portugal.

In layman’s terms, aletria is an arroz doce without rice, but with vermicelli pasta instead.

This dessert has strong influences from the Moors of North Africa, who have long been present in Portugal. Its name comes from “iṭriyah”, an Arabic word meaning “angel hair pasta”. Depending on the region, it can be creamier or more liquid.

Like arroz doce, it is generously sprinkled with cinnamon, and for Christmas dinner the powder is used to decorate it with Christmas motifs.

Arroz doce VS Aletria

6 – Pastel de Nata VS Queijada de Sintra

Pastel de nata

Pastel de nata (pronounced “Pachtel de nata”) means “pastry with cream”. You’re probably familiar with it, as it’s one of Portugal’s must-try specialties, and I often mention it in my articles. It’s a special puff pastry with cream. It can be eaten cold or warm, with or without cinnamon.

They were created in the 19th century in the Jeronimos monastery in Belém, a district of Lisbon. When the monastery closed, the brothers who lived there decided to sell the Pastéis de Nata recipe to a local bakery: the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém. This bakery still exists today and is considered to be the place where the original Pastéis de Nata are still produced according to the original recipe (a recipe kept secret). An institution not to be missed.

Today, Pastéis de Nata are very popular not only in Portugal but worldwide, and are a symbol of Portuguese cuisine. They can be found in many bakeries and cafés in Portugal, as well as in Portuguese restaurants and delicatessens abroad. My favorite addresses: Manteigaria (Lisbon, Porto), Leitaria (Lisbon) and of course the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém (Lisbon).

Queijada de Sintra

Queijada de Sintra has a false air of “pastel de nata”. It’s a specialty of the town of Sintra (30 km from Lisbon). Queijadas de Sintra are small, round, sweet pastries made with sweet curd cheese and eggs. Sometimes they are flavored with lemon or cinnamon. On top of this filling is a very thin crust.

The origins of this little pastry date back to the 13th century, when queijadas were used by farmers to pay the owners of rented agricultural estates in the Sintra region. If you’d like to try them, those at the “Casa Piriquita” pastry shop (founded in 1862) in Sintra’s historic center are very famous.

Pasteis de Sinta VS Pasteis de nata

In conclusion

As you can see, some Portuguese specialities have strong similarities.

Please let me know in the comments, what are your favorite Portuguese specialties?

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The post Fighting over Portuguese specialities: what are your favourites? appeared first on Villa Feria.

In Portugal, we talk much more about savory dishes than sweet treats. In the land of Camões, after a good meal, there’s not always room for a sweet ending… And yet, there are many Portuguese pastries.

Today, I’ve decided to introduce you to 5 of them, which are specialities of towns around Lisbon. To discover or rediscover when you’re in Lisbon (this list is obviously not exhaustive).

1 – Queijadas de Sintra

Queijadas de Sintra are a traditional Portuguese pastry from the town of Sintra, 40 minutes north of Lisbon.

They are quite small, round, sweet pastries made with sweet cottage cheese and eggs. Sometimes they are flavored with lemon or cinnamon. On top of this filling is a very thin crust. They are served either warm or at room temperature, with a cup of coffee.

Sintra’s queijadas have a long history and have been mentioned in historical documents dating back to the 15th century. They are believed to have been created by the monks of the São Martinho de Tibães monastery, who used cheese and eggs to make these pastries.

There are many bakeries and patisseries in Sintra offering freshly baked Queijadas de Sintra, but Piriquita is a real institution when it comes to tasting them.

My favorite address: Piriquita

Queijadas de Sintra. Photo credit: @foodlustpeoplelove

2 – Travesseiros de Sintra

Travesseiros deSintra are another type of traditional Portuguese pastry from the town of Sintra.

If translated into French, it means “Sintra bolster” because of its bolster-like shape.

They are made from thin, crisp puff pastry, filled with a sweet cream made from marzipan, eggs and sugar. Sintra travesseiros are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Sintra travesseiros are considered a typical product of the town of Sintra, and were awarded a Denomination of Protected Origin (DOP) by the European Community in 2011. There are variations of these cakes in other regions of Portugal, but “the real ones” are those originating in Sintra. By the way, “the real ones” must have an elongated shape, like a bolster, and a minimum dimension of 14 cm in length and 7 cm in width.

My favorite address: Piriquita as in Sintra’s queijadas

Travesseiros de Sintra. Photo credit: @vortexmag

3 – Tortas de Azeitão

Tortas de Azeitão are Portuguese pastries from the Azeitão region, located 30 km south of Lisbon, across the 25 Abril bridge. These cakes are made from eggs, sugar and flour, and topped with egg cream like many other Portuguese pastries.

The original recipe has remained almost unchanged over the centuries and has become a symbol of the Azeitão region. There are many variations on the original recipe, such as tortas de Azeitão with almonds or walnuts, or savory versions.

There is also a DOP (Denomination of Protected Origin) for tortas de Azeitão, which guarantees that the cakes are made using traditional methods, with top-quality ingredients, and in a defined geographical area. This ensures that consumers benefit from an authentic, high-quality product.

My favorite address: Fábrica de Tortas Azeitonense, Coina

Tortas de Azeitão. Photo credit: Mauricio Abreu / AWL Images

4 – Pastel Feijão de Torres Vedras

Feijão de Torres Vedras pasteis are cakes from the town of Torres Vedras, 50km north of Lisbon. They are made from red beans (feijão), flour and sugar.

Feijão de Torres Vedras pasteis have a light texture and a mild flavor, with a hint of cinnamon. They are diamond-shaped and at least 8 cm long.

Legend has it that Feijão de Torres Vedras pasteis were created by local women during the War of Independence (1803-1811) to feed the soldiers. These women used simple, abundant ingredients such as kidney beans and flour to create cakes that were nourishing and easy to transport. Since then, these cakes have become a symbol of Torres Vedras.

My favorite address: Fábrica Coroa – Pastéis de Feijão

Pastel Feijão de Torres Vedras. Photo credit: @teleculinaria

5 – Bocagiano de Setubal

Bocagiano is another Portuguese pastry, originating in the Setúbal region. This one is recent, having been created in July 2018, by the parish council of S. Sebastião and the company “Doces Afectos”.

It’s an orange and chocolate pastry that pays tribute to the history of the parish of S. Sebastião. Flour, water, lard, sugar and salt make up the crisp dough. Setúbal orange jam and chocolate are then added.

The orange recalls the days when orange groves occupied a large part of the Setubal peninsula. Indeed, Setúbal was the home of the famous Portuguese orange, with beautiful farms and large orange orchards. Orange jam was born here in the 1900s. The jam was sold in oranges, emptied of their pulp and filled with the jam. Sadly, many of Setubal’s orange groves no longer exist, and the orange groves’ land has been replaced by concrete and buildings. Production of these fruits has now migrated to the Algarve.

Bocagiano is packaged with Bocage‘s famous sonnet “Autorretrato” as a gift.

Where to find them? In Setubal at the Moinho de Maré da Mourisca, at the Forte de São Filipe and also at Casa da Baía.

Bocagiano. Photo credit: @setubalmais

In conclusion

As you can see, there are many Portuguese pastries to try around Lisbon. I urge you to try them in the towns in question, as they are often much better there. And if you’re a foodie, be sure to read my other blog post on must-try Portuguese desserts.

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