Portugal (PT)
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Hello everyone!
Planning a trip to Portugal next year, and I'm particularly excited about venturing beyond the bustling city of Lisbon. I've stumbled upon some valuable insights in the Lisbon-focused thread https://www.ironheart.co.uk/forum/topic/13776/lisbon-pt/9?_=1707894321749, but now I'm eager to hear about other hidden gems and must-see destinations beyond Lisbon.
With roughly 10 days to explore in October, I'm looking for recommendations on charming towns, breathtaking natural landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and of course, delicious local cuisine!
Here are a few questions I have been meaning to ask:
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For those who have explored Portugal beyond Lisbon, what were your favorite spots?
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Are there any hidden gems you discovered, like charming villages, breathtaking hikes, or unique cultural experiences?
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I’m definitely going to try pastel de nata, any other must-try dishes or regional specialties we shouldn't miss?
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Are there any festivals or cultural events happening around October?
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Any insider tips on transportation, accommodation, or navigating different regions?
I'm open to all suggestions and would love to hear about your Portuguese adventures! Thanks in advance for your tips and advice.
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You can visit Mosanto, or if you are into hiking try visiting Peneda-Gerês National Park.
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Haven‘t been there for a long time, but here‘s my google maps list with some places you may find interesting:
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You need to visit a fado restaurant when there. It’s typical Portuguese folklore music.
Culinary wise let me tell you one thing. There is a single reason to go to Portugal and it’s called pasteis de nata or pasteis de Belem. Get them, eat them, thank me later.
It’s a beautiful country. Been there many times traveling the coast line, enjoying the climate, food, weather and surfing. -
My pal is an expat there and soon to be citizen. I will revisit this thread when we go visit!
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@mhussy I only just heard of Monsanto now, but upon checking, it is popularly known as "the most Portuguese village of Portugal". This is definitely worth checking out. I am also into hiking, and October would be good weather for that kind of activity.
@endo These places on your map surely piqued my interest, thank you for sharing. Most interested in the Initiation Well and Santa Justa Lift.
@Dmart Do you know of a restaurant where you can enjoy fado music and pasteis de nata at the same time? Sending my thanks in advance!
@mclaincausey Your pal is really lucky to be an expat in this beautiful country!
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@danyhearty yeah he’s getting out of here while the gettin’s good
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@danyhearty The Originals you get in the corny of Belem, but you get them pretty much everywhere. Same for Fado music, you will find hundreds of restaurants that play fado.
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Évora is a pretty cool place to visit. The Chapel of Bones is hauntingly awesome…..
Óbidos is another easy day trip from Lisbon.
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@Sir_Cuffs-a-Lot said in Portugal (PT):
Évora is a pretty cool place to visit. The Chapel of Bones is hauntingly awesome…..
Óbidos is another easy day trip from Lisbon.
I love your suggestions, @Sir_Cuffs-a-Lot. Chapel of Bones looks awesome in photos, it would be a marvel to see it in person. I think Portugal should advertise Óbidos and Monsanto more to tourists.
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@Dmart Do you think I can still enjoy the beaches in October? I’ve noticed average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 21°C, depending on the data source. I’m planning to visit the Algarve, and I’ve also read about the beautiful Porto Santo Beaches on a small island in Madeira.
@mhussy While researching Monsanto, I stumbled upon some lesser-known gems—Peniche and Monsaraz—that are equally breathtaking with fewer crowds compared to the popular spots. I got these destinations from this article https://gowithguide.com/blog/tourism-in-portugal-statistics-2023-the-ultimate-guide-5600
And of course, I'm eagerly anticipating tasting pasteis de nata and immersing myself in fado music!
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@danyhearty I would say yes, but it always depends. Temperature should be around what you have mentioned, but I have been lucky and 25-26C in October. Water temperature should still be ok, around 18C. But yes, its not July/August sound and heat, so definitely bring some warmer clothes.
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@danyhearty Take your time and plan your trip accordingly. There are so many places worth seeing.
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@Dmart said in Portugal (PT):
@danyhearty I would say yes, but it always depends. Temperature should be around what you have mentioned, but I have been lucky and 25-26C in October. Water temperature should still be ok, around 18C. But yes, its not July/August sound and heat, so definitely bring some warmer clothes.
I hope I will be lucky with temperatures between 25°C to 26°C as well. You make a good point about being prepared for some cooler temperatures, just in case. Thanks for the tips on what to expect weather-wise.
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@mhussy said in Portugal (PT):
@danyhearty Take your time and plan your trip accordingly. There are so many places worth seeing.
Thanks for the reminder, @mhussy. I just got excited with all the helpful responses I got from this thread. I should take my time and plan this trip carefully. Thanks again for all your help!
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@danyhearty said in Portugal (PT):
@mhussy said in Portugal (PT):
@danyhearty Take your time and plan your trip accordingly. There are so many places worth seeing.
Thanks for the reminder, @mhussy. I just got excited with all the helpful responses I got from this thread. I should take my time and plan this trip carefully. Thanks again for all your help!
Make sure to update your trip report also if possible.
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I will certainly make an update.