Portugal - nature, cuisine, hunting and an ocean of emotions.

April 16, 2025

Portugal is a small country in the southwest of Europe. It is known for outstanding personalities such as Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, Luis de Camoes, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Portugal is also the birthplace of port wine and Madeira wine. Today, this country is also known for its developed tourism industry. It offers travelers unique nature, inimitable cuisine, unlimited hunting and entertainment opportunities, and unforgettable emotions. Having visited Portugal, everyone will experience great pleasure and unforgettable emotions.

Organizing a trip to Portugal
Any trip requires careful preparation, and this rule also applies if Portugal is chosen as the venue for the event. Proper preparation will make the trip ideal and allow for an ocean of positive emotions. Below are the main steps of this process and some recommendations for beginners.

Choosing the season
Choosing the right time of year is key in preparing for a trip to Portugal. When doing this, you should consider the weather in a particular region, planned activities, personal preferences, etc. In most cases, spring is the ideal choice. In March, April and May, Portugal has warm but not hot weather. It will allow you to walk around various cities and have fun outdoors comfortably. The only drawback of spring is the large number of tourists. Summer in Portugal is also often a priority option. It is characterized by many sunny days and high air temperatures, so it suits beach fans.
Autumn is a good time for those who want to travel to Portugal without crowds of tourists. Until about November, Portugal is warm and sunny, so you can see the local attractions and have a good time on the beach. Lower prices for all services are another plus of autumn. Winter is the least apparent option. It is cold, rainy and foggy in the northern regions of Portugal. Therefore, if you choose this time of year, you must go to the country's south. There, even in winter, the air temperature remains comfortable. The main advantages are the minimum number of tourists and even lower prices than in autumn.

Packaging the necessary things
Proper organization of a trip to Portugal is impossible without preparing items, devices and equipment travelers may need. This process is fascinating but challenging, especially if you have a 1- 2 bag limit. You need to fill the available space with the most important things. The list is compiled individually, depending on personal needs, the chosen season and planned activities. At the same time, it must include several of the most essential items.
In addition to such obvious items as documents, money and means of communication, you must put various medications in your bag. They will help eliminate minor problems if they arise during the trip. Having at least two spare sets of clothes in your bag is equally important. The first should be intended for colder weather and the second - for hot weather. Suppose most of the trip will take place outdoors. In that case, you must supplement the items listed with standard tourist accessories (flashlight, portable charger, etc.), insect repellents, protective products from bad weather and night vision devices.

Learning the nuances of local legislation
Portugal is a country in the European Union. This means that most of its laws are adapted to EU requirements. This is both a plus and a minus. The positive aspect is that there is no need to spend much time studying local legislation. Especially if travelers have been to one of the EU countries before. At the same time, the negative aspect is the many restrictions prohibiting foreigners from performing specific actions. For example, importing many items that can be useful to any traveler (some products, large amounts of undeclared cash, etc.) is prohibited or limited to Portugal. Portuguese laws are not as strict as those of Germany and Scandinavian countries. However, they cannot be called overly soft. They prohibit smoking in public places, listening to loud music between 11 pm and 7 am, making a fire (only in unique places), and much more. Most minor violations are subject to a fine. It varies widely and can be very large. Even if foreigners accidentally break the law, they bear the same responsibility as the Portuguese. That is why it is necessary to study the local legislation in detail before traveling.

What not to do in Portugal?
Portugal is a modern European country where locals have long been accustomed to foreigners. They often forgive tourists for actions that are not typical of the Portuguese. However, if travelers want to befriend locals and earn their respect, they should know about the forbidden actions. First, you should never rush. Hurrying in various actions will become a severe irritant for the Portuguese and may even be regarded as disrespectful. You also cannot tell locals how to do specific actions (even if they make mistakes). Such behavior is contrary to the unwritten rules of Portugal and will be offensive to the country's citizens.
Most Portuguese are friendly and welcoming people. However, travelers should never relax, as the country is one of the EU leaders in terms of the number of petty crimes committed. Therefore, when you communicate with a smiling stranger who approaches you, do not forget to keep an eye on the safety of your valuables. Also, in Portugal, you can't use topics such as religion, politics, racism, or finances when talking to locals. Otherwise, one incorrectly spoken word can offend someone and lead to unpredictable consequences. At the same time, football, food, music, and local culture can be discussed endlessly. For this, the Portuguese will give travelers a massive plus to their reputation.

Must-see places
Many places in Portugal can be considered "must-see". They are evenly distributed throughout the country so you can find at least a few in each region. The main places to visit are most often the largest cities of Portugal and its islands. These should be explored in more detail.

Lisbon
When traveling to any country, you should always visit the capital. In Portugal, it is Lisbon. Although it is one of the largest in Europe, it stands out from most other megacities. Each district is a separate mini-city with a unique atmosphere. Exploring all of them reveals Lisbon's diversity and appeal.
The capital of Portugal is the oldest city in Western Europe. Many historical sights have been preserved on its territory, attracting tourists' attention. The main architectural objects are Belem Tower, Sao Jorge Castle, Jeronimos Monastery, and Rua Augusta Arch. In addition, the city has many more modern buildings that all travelers must see. Another feature of Lisbon is its access to the Atlantic Ocean. This makes the capital popular with beach fans. There are many observation decks on the city territory. Each of them offers a magnificent view of Lisbon and its surroundings. The capital also has a beautifully decorated embankment, ideal for leisurely daily walks.

Madeira Island
This paradise island in the Atlantic Ocean deserves the attention of travelers. It has been in Portugal for over 600 years, although it is more than 1 thousand km away. You can get there by water and air. Madeira Island is the top of a vast volcano, most of which is hidden underwater. It has an area of ​​about 800 square kilometers and is considered one of the best places to relax in Europe. Magnificent nature is the main advantage of Madeira Island. Its entire territory is covered with dense vegetation, among which you can find many wild animals. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the island is always warm but not too hot. These conditions are ideal for many migratory birds, which you can see on Madeira Island. Unique caves, picturesque waterfalls and untouched forests add to the pleasant impressions of this place and make it a must-see. There are also many small villages on Madeira Island, where you can find yourself in the past and learn many interesting things about the culture of the local population.

Porto
This beautiful city deserves a place in the “must-see” category. In terms of size and importance for Portugal, it is second only to Lisbon, and in some respects, it is even ahead of the capital. Porto is a place where the past meets the present. Here, ancient architecture fits harmoniously into the modern urban landscape, making the city one of the most attractive in the country. Porto is famous for the fact that it was here that port wine was invented many years ago. This alcoholic drink was even named after the city; today, its taste is known worldwide. You can try it in almost every establishment that sells alcohol. Porto is an attractive place for travelers due to its many attractions. Dom Luis I Bridge, Porto Cathedral, and Palacio da Bolsa are the main ones. Also, there is a whole quarter called Ribeira in the city, which UNESCO included in the list of World Heritage Sites. No less popular are the numerous observation decks. These points offer a beautiful city view because Porto is located on the hills.

Azores
This famous archipelago attracts travelers from all over the world. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean, 1.4 km from the capital of Portugal. Like Madeira Island, this remote place has an airport. Therefore, most tourists prefer to travel to the Azores by plane. Water transport is a good alternative for those without motion sickness who enjoy ocean views. Azores is a subtropical paradise. This archipelago consists of 9 islands, each of which should be visited or viewed from a boat. All of them are covered with dense vegetation, which looks most beautiful against the backdrop of the blue water of the Atlantic Ocean. The main attraction of the Azores is Mount Pico. This active volcano has a majestic appearance. It is the highest point in Portugal and can be observed from a considerable distance. Also, on the islands of the archipelago, there are beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and less high volcanoes. The Azores is a great place to watch animals and birds. Several rare species are found here that are almost impossible to see elsewhere.

Aveiro
Not far from the Atlantic coast is the small town of Aveiro. Many consider it one of the most beautiful in Portugal. This is explained by the fact that the Vouga River flows through the entire settlement. It is divided into two parts and is decorated with urban landscapes. Also, a network of water channels passes through the city, which creates a semblance of Italian Venice. It is with it that Aveiro is often compared.
This city is also attractive to travelers for its architecture. In a relatively small area, there are dozens of unique buildings that people worldwide come to see. Among the most famous architectural attractions are Aveiro station, Aveiro Congress Center, Ponte dos Carcavelos, University of Aveiro. The central part of the city also deserves special attention. On its territory, many two-story houses are built in the art nouveau style. All of them look great at any time of the year. Against their background, the colorful boats floating along the canals become even more attractive.
Best natural locations
The words "Portugal" and "nature" can be considered synonyms. The country has many beautiful national parks, crystal clear waters, picturesque valleys, caves and other attractions that will interest any traveler. It is unlikely that you will be able to see them all, but you can try to visit the most famous natural locations. They are presented in this section.

Penada Geres National Park
A beautiful national park in the north of Portugal, Penada Geres, is one of the country's most famous natural locations. The park covers an area of ​​almost 700 square kilometers and offers wild nature. Several small villages are also located within the park. These villages are home to several thousand people who are happy to welcome tourists and help them explore the surrounding areas. Penada Geres is ideal for those who like silence, clean air and outdoor activities. In any part of the national park, you can find dozens of natural attractions and enjoy the beauty of the local landscapes. Due to frequent rains and a favorable location, most of the territory in Penada Geres is covered with dense vegetation. Among the local flora, several rare species cannot be found in other parts of Portugal. The fauna in Penada Geres is also highly diverse. There are even several species of amphibians that are endangered. For travelers, the park has many hiking and cycling routes. There are also camping areas in some places.

Benagil Caves
The municipality of Lagoa on the Atlantic coast is one of Portugal's most famous natural attractions. It is the Benagil Caves. They got their name from the small village of Benagil, a popular tourist destination. These caves were formed due to the long-term rock erosion by ocean waves. This process continues today, but the changes that occur are so insignificant that the famous landmark of Portugal seems the same as it was several decades ago.
Benagil Caves form a dome over the beach with a hole in the center. Through it, sunlight penetrates inside, turning this miracle of nature into an even more attractive object. Clean sand, transparent water and the absence of noise make Benagil Caves a paradise created by nature. You can get to this location only by water, using small boats. Because of this, Benagil Caves are not visited by many tourists, which is also a plus. Most who enter the stone dome speak positively about this place and bring home many unique photographs.

Douro Valley
The valley, which is formed by the largest river in Portugal, is one of the most famous natural locations in the country. It will appeal to people who prefer a quiet and peaceful holiday and various outdoor activities. The Douro Valley occupies a vast territory, but the best place to enjoy its beauty is Porto and its surroundings. There are dozens of ways to do this so that every traveler will have freedom of choice. Rafting on the Douro River is the best of them. Having rented a traditional Portuguese boat or an ordinary kayak, you can slowly float with the current and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. A trip on a special train is another good option. It will also allow you to explore the most beautiful places of the valley and enjoy the journey.
The Douro Valley is famous not only for its places with wild nature. On its outskirts, there are unique terraced fields where grapes are grown. They form an unusual landscape that looks perfect from a boat or train. In these places you can not only take many beautiful photos, but also try local wine. It has an unusual aroma and taste that will appeal to most travelers.

Arrabida Natural Park
This natural site is famous in Portugal and beyond its borders. It is located on the Setubal Peninsula and occupies approximately 175 square kilometers. Most of Arrabida Natural Park runs along the coast, guaranteeing dense vegetation and many places for tourists to relax. The site also includes the famous Arrabida Mountain, several sandy beaches and a unique sinkhole. Arrabida Natural Park attracts attention with its stunning landscapes. From every point, there is a beautiful view of the surrounding area, unspoiled by traces of human activity. This site is also known for the abundance of daffodils and orchids. They create a fantastic spectacle that can be enjoyed endlessly during their flowering. For fans of active recreation, Arrabida Natural Park has created ideal conditions for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. These and other activities will allow you to see Portugal's wild nature and appreciate its splendor.

Caldeirao do Corvo
A real natural wonder of Portugal is Caldeirao do Corvo. This famous object is located on one of the islands of the Azores archipelago. It is the crater of a long-extinct volcano. It is enormous and looks like something alien. The only thing that does not allow travelers to forget that they are on Earth is the abundance of vegetation.
The most beautiful thing in Caldeirao do Corvo is the lagoon. It was formed in the crater's center over 1 million years ago. This natural reservoir is constantly changing its appearance. With an abundance of precipitation, the water level in the lagoon rises, which leads to the flooding of small islands. However, the opposite process occurs with a long absence of rain and high air temperatures. A drop in the water level leads to the formation of land areas, which sometimes even divide the lagoon into several parts. This feature of Caldeirao do Corvo will appeal to travelers. Every time they come to the Azores, the lagoon looks different. This will create the feeling of visiting a new location that they have not seen before.

Portuguese cuisine
Many travelers are interested in Portuguese cuisine. It has evolved over centuries and absorbed all that was available to Europeans. Numerous sea voyages and trade alliances with various countries have enriched Portuguese cuisine with new ingredients and unique recipes. This has made it possible today to try a variety of delicious dishes.

Key features
Portuguese cuisine is a unique combination of flavors, fresh products, and spices. It is highly diverse and can surprise every gourmet. Its main feature is the use of a vast amount of seafood. Due to the ocean's proximity, fish, crabs, shrimp, mussels, and much more are available to the Portuguese. The ingredients listed are used in most of their favorite dishes, equally often served on holidays and dinner after a regular working day. Meat is used as an alternative to seafood.
The next feature of Portuguese cuisine is adding a large amount of olive oil to various dishes. It is popular in all regions of the country. Fresh vegetables are also popular ingredients. Due to unique climatic conditions, they quickly ripen and get an excellent taste. Various spices are another obligatory attribute of Portuguese cuisine. They became available to residents since the first sea voyages to India, Africa and America. Pepper, saffron, cloves and other spices brought from afar were added in large quantities to various dishes, giving them a unique aroma. The Portuguese grew such flavor additives as vanilla and cinnamon themselves. Thanks to this, they also became essential ingredients in local dishes.
An equally important feature of Portuguese cuisine is the combination of initially incompatible flavors. Thanks to numerous experiments, residents created flavor combinations, a characteristic feature of many famous dishes. It is also impossible to miss that Portugal is the birthplace of port wine and Madeira wine. These drinks are often used to prepare meat and fish dishes, which, with their help, acquire a unique taste.


Popular dishes
Travelers who come to Portugal should try the local cuisine. This will allow them to appreciate the culinary preferences of the country's residents and enjoy new tastes. The first thing you need to try is cod casserole. This fish is a favorite delicacy of the Portuguese; they eat it almost daily. There are hundreds of recipes for this casserole. You can try a special version in each establishment, which cannot be found anywhere else.
Continuing with the fish theme, travelers should pay attention to a simple dish like fried sardines. They are prepared everywhere, from street food stalls in small towns to elite restaurants in the capital of Portugal. Fried sardines are served with various sauces so everyone can choose their favorite.
Caldo Verde is another dish that you should try in Portugal. This soup is made from potatoes, onions, kale and other vegetables. After that, if desired, smoked sausage or pieces of pre-cooked meat are added. Apple pie is the most popular sweet dish in Portugal. It is prepared like in other countries, but locals often add a few secret ingredients. They make the taste of each pie unique. The Portuguese also like the classic chocolate mousse and their version of the popular rice pudding. These delicacies are a must-try for everyone who comes to the Iberian Peninsula.

Famous culinary traditions
There are many culinary traditions in Portugal. Almost all of them were formed hundreds of years ago, after which they were passed down from generation to generation. Today, they are an essential part of the daily life of the Portuguese and are observed even by many foreign tourists. The main tradition is a joint dinner. Residents of Portugal gather in the evening with the whole family to eat, discuss the events of the day, and plan their actions for tomorrow. Friends, acquaintances, and neighbors often join such family dinners, which turns a simple meal into an actual holiday. The following culinary tradition is associated with breakfast. Most Portuguese eat little in the morning, using simple and affordable products. For example, a classic Portuguese breakfast consists of a slice of bread with butter, ham, and coffee. Sometimes, it is supplemented with fresh fruit and homemade pastries. Another famous tradition is to eat soup 2 times a day. In Portugal, many types of soups are prepared, which form the basis of lunch and dinner. These dishes are served with fresh bread and other pastries.

Hunting in Portugal
Portugal is a paradise for fans of outdoor activities. It is especially popular with hunters, who find new opportunities in the country. Portugal is known for its varied landscapes, including forested plains, game-rich mountainous areas, spacious meadows, river valleys and even wetlands. These places are home to hundreds of species of animals and birds that can be hunted.

Key features
Portugal is an excellent place for day and night hunting enthusiasts. The country has very relaxed laws regarding the ownership of hunting weapons, and it is very easy to get a license to shoot animals. This opens up unlimited opportunities for hunters and gives them a chance to get a good trophy.
One of the key features of hunting in Portugal is the need to obtain a license. It is issued from age 16 to local residents and foreigners who want to have fun hunting during their trip. You must undergo a medical examination and pass a simple exam to get a license. In Portugal, carrying and transporting, even hunting weapons openly, is prohibited. This is important for all travelers who plan to make hunting their leading entertainment. At the same time, the law does not limit hunters’ choice of weapons. Only fully automatic rifles are prohibited in some regions. Semi-automatic models and long-barreled weapons can be used without restrictions.
Another essential feature of hunting in Portugal is observing hunting seasons. These seasons control wild animal populations and protect them from extermination. Hunting seasons in Portugal are limited to roughly the same timeframes as in other European countries. Some regions and hunting grounds also have quota rules. These rules limit hunters but help control the number of animals of a particular species or sex.

Famous hunting spots
In Portugal, you can hunt in different parts of the country. However, hunting will only be as exciting and fruitful as possible in some places. Alentejo is one of such places. This region occupies the central and southern parts of Portugal and has favorable climatic conditions for the habitation of many game species. Ungulates, wild boars, rabbits, partridges and ducks live here in huge numbers. Those who choose Alentejo will find hundreds of square kilometers of hunting grounds known for the abundance of game and their beautiful views. This feature will make hunting even more interesting and allow for better exploring the local nature.
Ribatejo is another ideal place for hunting. This province is located in the very center of Portugal. Thanks to this, you can get to it anywhere in the country in the shortest possible time. On its territory, many hunting grounds are suitable for beginners and professionals. Among the most common game species found in Ribatejo are deer, wild boar and partridge. The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal. It is not as often a hunting destination as the Alentejo and Ribatejo, but it is ideal for this activity. The main game here has always been ducks and other waterfowl. They live in all freshwater bodies of the Algarve and have no problems with the population. There are also many fallow deer and other ungulates in the region.

Popular game
In Portugal, many types of game are allowed to be hunted. However, as in other European countries, the leading animal for hunters is the red deer. It is widespread throughout Portugal. You need to look for it in forests, on the banks of rivers and in wide-open meadows. The hunting season for the red deer begins in late August and ends in mid-October. A good alternative is the European fallow deer. This animal lives in all regions of Portugal and can be found in any forest. It is also found near water bodies and in open areas. The hunting season for the European fallow deer begins in late September and lasts until early November.
Another popular animal among hunters is the wild boar. In Portugal, it lives wherever there are suitable conditions. Due to the vast number of wild boars and their rapid reproduction, hunting is allowed all year round, even with night optics. You need to look for animals in forests, near small bodies of water and in thick bushes. Among the birds, the favorite of hunters coming to Portugal is the partridge. This species inhabits most of the country. It easily adapts to changing conditions and has no population problems. Partridge can be hunted from early October to late January.

Popular activities
Hunting is not the only entertainment in Portugal. Many activities will also give you an ocean of positive emotions. Choosing one of them, every traveler will be able to have a good time and enjoy the country's beauty. Below are the most popular forms of entertainment that tourists most often choose.

Beach relaxation
The most popular thing in Portugal is relaxing on the beach. There are hundreds of suitable places in the country where you can not only lie quietly on the sand and enjoy the sound of the surf but also engage in various active entertainment. The most popular beaches are located on the Atlantic coast. Almost all of them have unique features that attract the attention of travelers. On most beaches, vacationers can play water sports, play football and volleyball, and ride various boats and motorboats. Combined with sunny weather and picturesque landscapes, such a vacation will be as pleasant as possible and will be remembered for a long time. The most popular beaches in Portugal are Praia da Rocha, Praia da Adraga, Praia da Arrifana, Praia da Rainha, and Praia de Benagil. Most travelers should pay attention to them.


Surfing
Access to the Atlantic Ocean makes Portugal a paradise for surfing fans. This activity attracts the attention of many locals and foreigners who travel around the country. You can surf in dozens of places. Most allow travelers to rent boards of the appropriate size and various equipment. In some areas, there are even surfing schools where instructors explain the basics of riding the waves to beginners. Figueira da Foz, Nazare, Peniche, Ericeira, Costa Vicentina, and Sao Miguel are Portugal's most popular cities for this entertainment. Having visited them, you can go surfing and enjoy the time spent.

Hiking
Portugal is known for its large number of natural locations. Almost all of them are suitable for various outdoor activities, including hiking. This activity often becomes a favorite among travelers who want to explore Portugal's beauty, not just relax on the beach. Hiking spots can be found in all regions of the country. Most routes have a certain degree of difficulty, making them a good option for beginners or professionals. The most famous places for hiking are Madeira Island and the Azores. There are dozens of trails on the islands, and from each point, you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and surrounding natural attractions. Continental Portugal is also known for its hiking routes. The best of them are in the natural parks of Alvao, Arrabida, Ria Formosa, Douro, and the Penada Geres National Park.

Camping
Portugal is a country with many beautiful places for recreation. It is lovely for camping fans. Hundreds of sites are equipped for this activity throughout the country. They are in the most picturesque places where you can continuously enjoy nature. The best place to camp is in the south of Portugal. There are favorable weather conditions at any time of the year, which excludes discomfort. The north of Portugal can be chosen only in summer and early autumn. The rest of the year, most areas will be pretty cold. The central part of the country is also suitable for camping fans. This place has many natural parks with beautiful views and an abundance of entertainment options available at any time of the year.

Kayaking
The presence of access to the Atlantic Ocean in Portugal makes many travelers forget about the existence of many other bodies of water. However, they can all be a great place to spend a holiday. Almost every one of these bodies of water is suitable for kayaking. This activity allows you to be alone and enjoy the surrounding nature. For kayaking in Portugal, you can choose almost any river or lake. However, fans of this activity first advise considering the five most popular bodies of water. The Douro River is the main one. The banks of this river are a miracle of nature, which you can enjoy endlessly. You can consider Lagoa do Fogo, Ria de Aveiro, Lagoa Do Congro and Azul as backup options. Those not afraid to go kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean can arrange water adventures near Madeira Island and the Azores.
There are many great places to visit in Europe, and Portugal is definitely on this list. The country is entire of beautiful natural attractions, attracts attention with its unique cuisine, and allows people to have a good time. Even hunters and fans of other outdoor activities feel incredibly comfortable here. They all get an ocean of positive emotions from their adventures and turn Portugal into a favorite European country.