Tag: Portugal

Americans Can Fly Nonstop To This Hugely Popular Portugal Destination From 11 U.S. Cities

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An abundance of new nonstop flights has made Europe more accessible than ever for U.S. travelers this summer.

And the good news is that that’s a trend set to continue into fall too!

More American travelers have visited Portugal this year than ever before.

According to Portugal Resident more than a million travelers from the U.S. visited the country between January and June this year.

This is a figure that has almost doubled in 2 years, which is frankly incredible!

The reason? The Capital and largest city in Portugal, Lisbon, is connected to a whopping 11 different U.S. cities.

Flying Nonstop To Lisbon

During the summer months, you can fly nonstop to Lisbon from 11 U.S. cities, and flights from 7 cities operate year-round.

New York, Chicago, Miami, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, and San Francisco are the seven cities offering year-round flights that you can book right now.

January is the cheapest month to fly from the U.S. to Lisbon, with nonstop return flights available for under $500 if you book now.

However, flights in October and November are just as affordable, with options under $600, and these are the best months to visit the city.

I looked at nonstop flight options for October and found that New York and Miami were the 2 most affordable cities to fly from.

Flying from New York to Lisbon from October 14 to October 22 will cost $614 for a nonstop return trip.

This flight is with Air Portugal with an outbound flight time of 6 hours 55 minutes and an inbound flight time of 8 hours.

United Airlines also operates on this route if you’d prefer a U.S. carrier, but for the same dates the flight cost was $1,214.

If Miami is a more convenient departure airport or connection point for you, you’ll be pleased to hear that Miami is the second cheapest U.S. departure airport for Lisbon in October.

A nonstop round trip in economy class departing on October 16 and returning on October 23 will cost $715.

This flight is with Air Portugal and has an outbound flight time of 8 hours 20 minutes and an inbound flight time of 9 hours 10 minutes.

Alternatively, you could fly the same route on the same dates with JetBlue for $1,236.

Why Visit Lisbon?

Europe is historically the stomping ground of us Brits during the summer months, with Britons topping the list of visitor numbers for almost every European country.

But you’re just as likely to bump into an American tourist than a British one in Lisbon this year.

And it’s easy to see why!

As well as the incredible connectivity, Lisbon is also an amazing city to explore. Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city.

In the summer you can have the best of both worlds’ here: culturally significant historical sites and lazy beach days.

This means you can experience Europe’s beaches and its rich history in one city.

If you like mild weather and fewer crowds, fall is the best time to explore Lisbon.

Because it is such a culturally fascinating city, I love Lisbon in the fall, when the temperature is cool enough for plenty of walking and exploring.

Some of the best things to see and do in Lisbon include climbing to the Castle of São Jorge and then strolling through Alfama.

The Castle of Sao Jorge sits on Lisbon’s highest hill and looks over the city, making it one of the most iconic attractions. Entrance costs €15,00 ($16.60) per adult.

Be sure to visit the Praça do Comércio which is is a large, harbour-facing plaza and one of the most picturesque plazas in the city. Entrance is free and this is a great place to sit, relax, and people watch.

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss MAAT – the Art, Architecture and Technology Museum which is in the heart of the city overlooking the water. The building is a modern architectural wonder in its own right!

Tickets cost €11.00 ($12) per person, but plan your trip in advance because the Museum is only open from Wednesday to Monday.

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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August 31, 2024
Why This Beautiful Region In Portugal Is Soaring In Popularity With Digital Nomads

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Looking for the perfect spot for your next European digital nomad adventure?

Portugal is a fascinating country that regularly tops lists for being one of Europe’s best digital nomad hotspots.

According to PortugalResident U.S. attendees at the most recent ‘Living in Portugal’ show were keen to learn more about living in the country, as well as Portugal’s popular digital nomad scheme.

But where do they want to live when they arrive?

The answer is The Algarve.

49.9% of show visitors wanted information on this region over all other parts of Portugal.

Here’s why:

High Quality Of Life

Digital nomads traditionally flock to cities, attracted by their abundance of facilities as well as by other digital nomads.

But Lisbon and Porto have become saturated with digital nomads in recent years, and unfortunately, this has meant that they are less welcome in the cities than they once were.

Lisbon was once considered the main hub for digital nomads in Portugal. But this popularity has driven up prices and reduced the amount of affordable housing in the city.

With residents competing with digital nomads for property, many nomads are simply choosing to move elsewhere.

Instead, those same nomads are hot-footing to the Algarve where they can get a much higher quality of life for a similar budget. Average rent prices in the Algarve are 8.2% lower than in Lisbon right now.

There are many affordable small villages in the Algarve that are welcoming digital nomads with open arms thanks to the boost that they give to local economies.

The Algarve is a particularly attractive location for adventurers who want a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle and want to spend time on the beach or in the great outdoors.

Idyllic Beaches And Great Beach Weather

If you feel happier when you’re relaxing in the sunshine then you’ll love living in the Algarve.

That’s because temperatures in the Algarve are much warmer than in the rest of Portugal.

A combination of hot, dry summers and mild winters make this the perfect spot for beach lovers.

And when it comes to beaches, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

The Algarve is huge. It covers an area of 4,997 km2 (1,929 sq mi), and its coastline is roughly 155 km long. This means that its beaches are incredibly diverse.

Some of the very best beaches in the area include Praia da Salema in Salema, which is located in the Costa Vincentina Natural Park.

This is an idyllic and authentic Portuguese fishing village, and the beach is fringed by limestone cliffs.

If you enjoy surfing, then you should head to the famous waves of Ericeira, which attract adrenaline junkie locals as well as digital nomads.

For a classic stretch of golden sand, the Blue Flag Beach of Alvor is a great option. This beach spot is popular with families, kite surfers, and easily accessible too.

Lined with cafes and restaurants this is a great place to bring your laptop if you want to work from the beach.

Excellent Digital Infrastructure

Boring but essential, a key factor for digital nomads is how good the digital infrastructure is in their chosen location.

And the Algarve boasts an incredibly robust digital infrastructure as well as a great safety record.

You’ll find reliable high speed internet connections here and the number of shared workspaces specifically for digital nomads is growing steadily.

You’ll also find networking events, workshops, and meetups hosted throughout the region to ensure digital nomads have the chance to meet likeminded world explorers.

Whether you want to work from the comfort of your own apartment, from a desk in a shared workspace, or even take in the views from a beachfront cafe, digital nomads really are spoiled for choice in the Algarve.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Algarve is considered one of the safest regions in Portugal.

Digital nomads are often cautioned to remain cautious of pickpockets, particularly if they’re exploring the more touristy areas of the region, but outside of this, there are very few safety concerns to consider when living in the Algarve.

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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April 8, 2024
These Are 4 Of The Cheapest And Most Incredible Destinations To Visit In Portugal Right Now

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Home to a gorgeous Atlantic coast, where some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe can be found, ancient cities with origins lost to time, and a highly-reputed food scene, Portugal is currently one of the trendiest destinations for tourists across the pond.

Not only is it everything you’d expect a Southern European country to be, in terms of cultural offer and weather, but it is also renowned for being the cheapest of the bunch: it costs an average $1,033 to spend a week basking in the sun, and savoring your way through Portugal.

If the Iberian gem’s been on your radar for a while, and you’ve been wondering which Portuguese destinations will get you more bang for your buck – as well as blow your mind – these are 4 of the cheapest (and most incredible) spots:

Albufeira

The leading tourist destination in the sunny Algarve, mainland Portugal’s southernmost territory, Albufeira is nicknamed ‘Portuguese Santorini‘, due to its whitewashed Old Town resting on small cliffs facing the ocean, and bright blue shutters and doors.

Albufeira is both the nightlife capital of the Algarve and the gateway to its sandy coast.

It is teeming with tourists year-round, particularly Brits and Northern Europeans, and for a resort zone as lively and well-frequented, you’d assume prices would reflect the soaring demand.

That’s not necessarily the case, as tourists spend an average $1,305 for one week in Albufeira: the Velamar Boutique Hotel costs only $75 to book per night, while staying overnight at the adults-only Hotel California Urban Beach will set you back by an acceptable $132.

Naturally, you can go the all-inclusive resort or upscale restaurant route—there are plenty of those in Albufeira if you’re keen on splurging—but if you’re after a budget-friendly beach getaway, you will definitely find it here if you’re fine not getting pampered 24/7.

Porto Santo

We’ve all heard of Madeira at this point, the ‘Hawaii of Europe‘, but very little is said of its Maldives-like sister, the neighboring, much smaller Porto Santo, part of the same archipelago, where beaches are sandy instead of pebbly and the ocean’s a turquoise-blue.

Porto Santo is a natural oasis in the Atlantic, famous for its translucent waters, which rival the Indian Ocean in beauty, dramatic arid landscapes, year-round balmy weather due to its proximity to the African continent, and laid-back atmosphere.

While Madeira has become a globalized island, being home to multiple nationalities and hosting nonstop flights from America, Porto Santo is a lot more isolated, being served by a limited number of intra-Europe flights and Madeira ferries.

It’s somewhere you go for unwinding and soaking up nature, and for a destination as exclusive as this, you may be surprised to learn that you can find dormitory beds for as cheap as $29, only 450 meters from the beach, and double rooms in three-star hotels for a very reasonable $93.

The average hotel cost for a one-week stay in Porto Santo comes in at an affordable $744.

It’s not exactly cheap by Portuguese standards, but considering the complete lack of tourist crowds, the quality of the beaches, and the unlimited access to the wild nature, it’s a fair trade off.

Braga

Back to the Portuguese mainland, miles away from the resort-packed coast and the sunny islands, Braga is a historic city in the far north of the country, only reachable by train and best known for its religious importance and medieval heritage.

An imposing cathedral dominates the cobbled Old Town, and its adjacent Sacred Art Museum and landmark Kings’ Chapel, distinguished for being a textbook example of Gothic architecture, is sure to captivate history buffs.

Other attractions include well-preserved ancient walls, a neoclassical church perched atop a cascading stairway, possibly the most photographed in Portugal, and the lush Santa Barbara Garden, with its flower arrangements, and the nearby, monumental Archbishop’s Palace.

Fortunately for the culture-seekers, Braga is pretty affordable for a historically-charged city break of its status, with week-long stays setting travelers back $786 or a remarkably cheap $380 if you’re staying in shared dorms and eating in inexpensive local pastelarias.

Porto

The capital of Northern Portugal, the city of Porto has wooed passersby for years now, with its UNESCO-listed Historic Center, centuries-old tradition of wine-making, and fast-flowing Douro River, cutting through its very heart, providing an endless source of fascination.

Among some of the main Portenho landmarks, Clerigos Tower is perhaps the most noticeable one, rising above the maze of terracotta roofs below, though the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, Lello Library, known to have inspired the Harry Potter saga, and the cathedral are not to be missed, either.

It is the only other Portuguese city that can stand up to Lisbon: it has Baroque churches that are just as ornate, a History that is just as ancient, and an equally vibrant multicultural scene.

With all the value it offers, the $59 you’ll spend per day visiting Porto on a budget sound like an absolute bargain.

From traditional Portuguese pastries costing less than a dollar to satisfying $16 lunch menus including a starter or dessert and a main dish, exploring the hilly, colorful Porto and the wider, vineyard-dotted Douro Valley will hardly break the bank.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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March 19, 2024
These Are The 5 Cheapest Cities To Visit In Portugal According To New Study
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Portugal, home to some of the world’s most stunning cities, historic landmarks, and gold-sanded beaches, has recently skyrocketed in popularity among American travelers.

Though there’s no shortage of reasons to visit a country as naturally and culturally blessed as Portugal, it’s important to note that what’s drawing tourists in such remarkable numbers is the fact that the region boasts some of the lowest prices in southwestern Europe.

In an effort to help travelers keep costs at a minimum during their next trip to Portugal, Porto Travel Guide analyzed online data for over 100 Portuguese cities, searching for the most cost-effective destinations.

They looked into travel, accommodation, and food costs and scored each destination out of 100 based on their affordability index.

These were the cities that were deemed the cheapest in all of Portugal:

1. Fafe

Boasting an impressive affordability score of 87.90 out of 100, Fafe is officially Portugal’s cheapest city, and a beautiful one at that.

This hidden gem is nestled in the vibrant landscapes of northern Portugal, offering travelers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.

While relatively unknown, the city is home to several of the country’s must-see attractions, including Pedra do Altar, the Peneda-Gerês National Park, which is a haven for hikers and backpackers looking to explore Portugal’s wild beauty on a budget.

2. Oliveira de Azeméis

The central Portuguese city is probably best recognized for being home to the Oliveira de Azeméis Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts, art pieces, and historical exhibits, all of which provide visitors with fascinating insights into the region’s storied past.

If Fafe is a city best appreciated by nature enthusiasts, Oliveira de Azeméis is a haven for history buffs looking to get a deeper understanding of Portugal’s culture.

Here, you can also partake in traditional festivals and events, though my top recommendation would be to visit the local markets – aside from the lively atmosphere, you’re bound to find some great deals.

3. Vila Nova de Famalicão

The third destination on today’s list is yet another hotspot for history enthusiasts.

Vila Nova de Famalicão boasts a fantastic historical center adorned with medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and elegant churches, making visitors feel like they’re on the set of a movie.

What’s more, exploring the city by foot is not only possible but also the best way to soak in the local ambiance, so you’ll end up saving even more on bus and taxi fares.

4. Ovar

Located along the picturesque coastline of central Portugal, Ovar is a seaside town that features some of the country’s most pristine sandy beaches, including Praia do Furadouro and Praia de Esmoriz, where travelers can enjoy the Portuguese Riviera without any entrance fees.

Beyond its inviting shores, Ovar is famous for its colorful azulejo tiles that adorn the facades of buildings all throughout the city.

To add to that, accommodation options start at only $14 a night – it really can’t get any better than this.

5. Amarante

The fifth cheapest destination in Portugal is Amarante, a picturesque town that lies along the banks of the Tâmega River.

Though small, the city is pretty well known among locals for its charming medieval bridge, Ponte de São Gonçalo, which offers awe-inspiring views of the river and the surrounding landscape.

Amarante is also a gateway to Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its terraced vineyards and scenic landscapes, so you won’t have to worry about getting bored in this gorgeous region of northern Portugal.

Bigger Portuguese Hotspots Tourists Can Visit On A Budget

While there’s no doubt that all of the destinations that made the list are as spectacular as they are affordable, they might be a bit too off-the-beaten-path for travelers looking to experience more popular cities and landmarks.

If that sounds like you, you can find some bigger, more popular hotspots you can still visit on a budget below.
- Porto. Based on data from this study as well as articles and reports from reliable travel sources, it’s safe to say that Porto is the Portuguese city that best combines affordable pricing and lively tourist attractions. The area’s diverse range of budget-friendly hotels and eateries creates the perfect budget backdrop without forsaking cultural and historical attractions.
- Vila Nova de Gaia. A stunning, albeit smaller alternative to neighboring Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia is the perfect destination for that specific traveler looking for a more unique destination while still getting to partake in traditional touristy experiences.
- Lisbon. Though Lisbon was placed relatively far down on the list, holding the 85th spot, the fact that the country’s capital has left almost 20 cities behind in terms of affordability speaks a lot about the value the gorgeous city offers its visitors. Though you’ll need to spend a bit more here than you would in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, the sights, events, and attractions you’ll get to experience in return are invaluable.
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November 12, 2023
These Are The Top 4 Destinations In Portugal For Digital Nomads Right Now

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One of Europe’s most traditional sunny getaways, Portugal has been reinventing itself later as a long-term destination, attracting not only vacationers but a growing number of digital nomads looking to relocate to Southern Europe.

This year alone, over 200 Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) were issued in a matter of months, not to mention the granting of tourist visas, which most remote workers from America use to reside in Portugal temporarily for up to three months, without requiring additional documentation.

If the Lusophone country has been on your radar lately, too, and you’re unsure what to expect moving there, here are four incredible destinations to consider:

Porto

The unofficial capital of Northern Portugal, as well as the country’s second-largest city, O Porto, literally translated from Portuguese as ‘The Port’, is a major maritime port sitting along the banks of Douro River, an estuary leading to the Atlantic Ocean.

As a cultural destination, it is one of Europe’s oldest cities, having been settled as early as the 2nd century BC and a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its Baroque monuments, medieval monuments, and centuries-old wine-making tradition.

As a ‘workcation’ destination, Porto boasts a high concentration of internet cafes and coworking centers, which make the digital nomad experience a lot more seamless, as well as a Gamma+ rating, as awarded by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network.

This means it is large and self-sufficient enough to be considered an important commercial hub with a better-than-average urban infrastructure.

This makes the 1.7 million people-strong Portuense Metropolitan Area one of Europe’s most attractive cities for living in and conducting business.

Cascais

Part of the Lisbon District, which comprises the Portuguese capital as well as a number of smaller settlements, the lesser-known beachfront city of Cascais has proven to be a major point of interest for digital nomads traveling across Portugal.

First of all, it is much smaller than Lisbon proper, with just over 200,000 residents, and as it sits on the coast, as opposed to on the banks of a busy estuary, life in Cascais feels a lot more relaxed and slow-paced than in Portugal’s first city.

Offering more accessible access to the Atlantic coast, sandy beaches, and hidden coves, and being characterized by a historic center full of tiled facades and traditional Iberian houses, there are few places in Portuguese as charming and picturesque to work remotely from as Cascais.

Additionally, it is becoming increasingly more attractive as ‘nomad fatigue’ takes over Lisbon. In recent months, Lisboenses have openly decried the growing presence of remote workers and gentrified communities in the capital, with an Expresso article openly telling them to leave.

In Cascais, however, the local attitude towards nomads seems to be much friendlier.

Lagos

One of the main urban centers of the beautiful Algarve region in Southern Portugal, Lagos concentrates roughly 30,000 or so residents within its municipal boundaries, making it the smallest city on this list but by no means the least prepared for a surge in expats.

With reasonable prices – particularly in the off-season – a less chaotic city life and a hospitality industry able to cater to remote workers, either through discount accommodation rates for more extended stays or reduced prices for common workspaces, Lagos is a seriously underrated nomad hotspot.

According to NomadList, basing yourself in subtropical Lagos will cost you US$2,527 monthly, which falls within the estimated US$2,000 – US$3,000 budget of the average young digital nomad living in Southern Europe.

In terms of tourist offers, Lagos is best known for its lively nightlife, traditional Iberian architecture, food scene – due to its limited urbanization, and it’s one of the best destinations for sampling authentic Portuguese cuisine – and golden-sand beaches.

Fortunately for American nomads, now they can fly nonstop to the Algarve as flights between the United States and the region are set to launch for the first time.

Madeira

The only destination that is not located on the Portuguese mainland, the autonomous archipelago of Madeira lies off the coast of Northwestern Africa, but it is still part of Portugal, and thus just as safe, developed, and well-equipped as any other entry on this list.

The main island is home to Funchal, a compact, gorgeous capital famous for its cobbled historic quarter, dating back to the early 16th century, fast-developing marina, bounded by luxurious hotels and resort spas on one side, and the Atlantic on the other, and abundance of green spaces.

Funchal is your best bet at a comfortable ‘nomad’ life in Madeira, as it has the best infrastructure, the highest concentration of work-friendly spots, and more affordable accommodation options compared to smaller towns on the main island, or the smaller, more isolated island of Porto Santo.

Madeira is also a winter sun destination, connected to mainland Portugal, as well as wider Europe by nonstop flights year-round, though frequency is particularly accentuated in the colder months, and they even host direct flights from the States, making it incredibly easy to reach.

You Can Stay In Portugal Visa-Free For 3 Months

As stated in the introduction, in order to work permanently from Portugal as a digital nomad, you must apply for the relevant visa and satisfy all of the criteria set out by Portuguese authorities.

Alternatively, as an American citizen, you may enter Portugal for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period as a visitor, visa-free, provided the intention of your visit is not to carry out paid work for a Portugal-based company or, of course, reside in the country illegally.

This means you will be entering Portugal as a short-term tourist, and you will be required to leave Portugal – and the Schengen territories as a whole – once the 90 days are up, for at least a further 90 days.

Learn more about Schengen and why it’s important that you know Europe’s visit rules here.

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November 7, 2023
Why This Surf Town In Portugal Is Europe’s Next Digital Nomad Hotspot

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If you’ve read any travel news in the past year or two, it’s likely been hard to miss the buzz surrounding Portugal, the latest go-to destination for digital nomads seeking a unique and affordable place to live and work remotely.

While Lisbon has been a popular choice for many, the influx of digital nomads and foreigners hoping to enjoy a slice of Iberian paradise has led to an unsustainable and unfortunate uptick in rental prices.

Lisbon, a once affordable hidden gem on the European tourist circuit, is now the most expensive European city to rent an apartment in (yes — it’s now even more expensive than Paris and Amsterdam).

In a matter of a year or two, it’s become “the world’s third-least viable city to live in based on local wages and rents,” according to Jacobin.

This has pushed most locals out of the rental market, forcing them to relocate across the river to cities like Almada, Costa da Caparica, and Setúbal.

However, remote workers interested in a slice of surf paradise are now turning their attention to Ericeira, a charming surf town on the Portuguese coast.

Could this be the beginning of the boom for this coastal city? Let’s take a look at the interest in Ericeira, whether or not it’s worth the hype, and how you can relocate to Portugal without becoming a part of the problem.

Ericeira: Portugal’s Sleepy Surf Town

Unlike the bustling streets of Lisbon or Porto, Ericeira offers a more laid-back environment for digital nomads.

The city, located just 40 km northwest of Lisbon, is a Portuguese fishing village offering picturesque beachscapes alongside whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets.

It gives more Greek island vibes than it does big city vibes (like Lisbon), and for many, that’s part of its unique charm and allure.

With fewer crowds (at least for now), Ericeira provides the perfect setting for focus and productivity while still providing ample opportunities for networking and socializing.

But what makes the city that different from other digital nomad hotspots across Portugal and Europe?

Surf Culture

Ericeira is well known for its world-class surfing conditions (it hosted the World Surf League’s 2019 EDP Billabong Pro competition and has hosted several others).

This means digital nomads interested in catching wives while working remotely will feel right at home in Ericeira, as the area is known for its consistent swells and variety of surf breaks.

There are over 65 surf spots in the area, but if you’re interested in checking out a few of the most popular, visit Praia de São Julião, Praia da Foz do Lizandro, or Praia do Sul.

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Digital Nomad Community

Despite being a smaller city, Ericeira is home to a thriving digital nomad community.

In fact, it often seems that there are more (and better) coworking options in Ericeira than in Lisbon, with many offering typical surf town perks like surfing classes, yoga, and healthy food options.

Additionally, you’ll find lots of regular meetups in Ericeira, making it easy to connect with other remote workers and even make professional connections.

Work-Life Balance

As mentioned, Ericeira is only about 45 minutes away from Lisbon.

It’s also super close to enchanting day trip destinations and weekend getaway spots like Sintra, Mafra, Peniche, and the surf capital of Portugal, Nazaré.

With so many things to see and do in and around the sleepy surf city, many of which include natural parks, beautiful beaches, and historic towns, it makes sense that Ericeira would be such an up-and-coming hotspot for digital nomads looking to strike the perfect work-life balance.

With an abundance of natural surroundings, Ericeira provides ample opportunities to get some fresh air after long hours spent in front of a screen, promoting overall well-being, both mentally and physically.

The Cost Of Living In Ericeira

Ericeira is currently ranked No. 40 on Nomadlist, with high scores in quality of life, internet speed, fun, safety, and walkability.

As a digital nomad, you can expect to pay just over $3,400 a month to live in Ericeira, according to estimates on Nomadlist. That’s about $300 less than the current listed average for Lisbon.

A simple search on Idealista reveals the average price for a two-bedroom apartment to be about €1,500 per month.

While more than the cost of living as a digital nomad in cities like Bangkok, Zagreb, Chiang Mai, or Dubrovnik, it’s an affordable alternative to places like Lisbon, Barcelona, or Rome.

Factor in the sweet surf spots, laid-back coastal town vibes, friendly locals, great climate, and several coworking spaces, and it’s all well worth the price to enjoy Europe’s next digital nomad hotspot before it gets too popular.

How To Be A Responsible Digital Nomad

You only have to take a look at a few photos of Ericeira to understand its allure.

However, how can you enjoy life there as a digital nomad without contributing to it becoming the next Lisbon or Canggu?

The biggest issue now surrounding Portuguese digital nomad hotspots is increasing rental prices.

If you’re planning on renting an apartment in Ericeira, don’t participate in bidding wars with other foreigners just to snag a sweet space. This drives rental prices up and pushes locals out.

Speaking of locals — always respect local customs! Learn a bit of Portuguese, shop and eat locally, and go out of your way to integrate yourself into local life.

Learning about Portuguese history, creating meaningful connections, and initiating projects that can uplift local communities can all make a living in Ericeira as a digital nomad all the more enriching.

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August 26, 2023
5 Lesser Known Destinations In Portugal To Avoid The Record-Breaking Crowds

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Portugal is a beautiful country with incredible beaches. This year alone it has been listed as one of the cheapest European vacation destinations as well as one of the most popular.

So it should come as no surprise that Portugal’s travel and tourism industry is on target to break records in 2023. Data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) shows that by the end of the year, Portugal’s tourism industry will exceed its 2019 peak.

Locations such as Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira are listed as the most popular destinations in Portugal, and they all attract big crowds during the summer months.

But what about if you want to explore Portugal without the record-breaking crowds?

Here are 5 lesser-known destinations in Portugal to explore:

Miramar

Miramar is a small coastal village located between the towns of Gulpilhares and Arcozelo. Despite boasting a beautiful beach, Miramar doesn’t attract the same level of crowds as the beaches of the Algarve. Even in the high season, the beach here is pleasantly uncrowded.

If you’re looking for tourist attractions, then you won’t be disappointed here either. Miramar is home to the Capela do Senhora Pedra. This is a 17th-century chapel that looks striking against the wave-beaten headland that juts out from the beach.

Miramar isn’t far from Porto, so it’s not exactly off the beaten track. But it is much quieter than many of the other easy-to-access tourist resorts in Portugal.

Alto Alentejo

If you’re hoping to explore the authentic heart of Portugal, then Alto Alentejo is the perfect region to visit.

You won’t find luxury all-inclusive resorts here. And as it is an inland destination, you won’t be able to spend your days lazing on the beach. But Alto Alentejo offers an incredible mixture of pretty towns and medieval cities.

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It is the best place in Portugal to mingle with locals and enjoy the country’s history and culture.

The best way to stay here is in small, locally run hotels or farm stays. Alentejo cuisine is regarded as amongst the richest and best in Portugal.

Marvao

Marvao is a small, fairytale village with a population of just 2,972. Located in the mountaintops near the Spanish border, Marvao is a Medieval village, and the castle here is considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

Marvao boasts white-washed houses and incredible views. People often stop at Marvao as part of a wider road trip around Portugal, but it is less popular as a stand-alone vacation destination.

Marvao is a vacation destination that is small but perfectly formed and is best suited to active, outdoorsy types. From hiking in the surrounding mountains to horseback riding and mountain biking, Marvao is best explored slowly, with plenty of stops to admire the breathtaking scenery.

Viseu

The most off-path locations are the ones that are hardest to reach, and that is true of beautiful Viseu.

There is no train station here, so you will need to hire a car to reach your destination. But it’s worth making the effort to enjoy the incredible views, cultural attractions, and the lack of crowds.

Viseu is a medieval walled city that is home to a monumental cathedral, beautiful cobbled alleyways, and immense plazas perfect for people-watching and unwinding after a busy day. As the location is in one of Portugal’s main wine-producing regions, you’re in the perfect place for a glass of red.

And art lovers will find Renaissance treasures to savor in the Museu Grão Vasco.

Ferragudo

Ferragudo is known as the prettiest village on the Algarve. And while there are no completely tourist-free locations here, if you want to visit the Algarve, then this is one of the best places to choose.

Ferragudo is a traditional fishing village filled with whitewashed cottages, hillside streets, and beautiful riverside views. The squares and terraces here have a buzzing night-time atmosphere, and you’ll find a host of great restaurants here too.

One of the more unique characteristics of this area is the many cliff-top forts that you can explore. Ferragudo is at the mouth of a river rather than offering direct beach access.

While the famous beaches of the Algarve are close by, this distance makes Ferraguda a much quieter location to explore.

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July 23, 2023
5 Underrated Destinations In Portugal To Avoid Summer Crowds

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Portugal is one destination that travelers can’t seem to get enough of.

This European country has been growing in popularity with American travelers, and during the first quarter of 2023, it actually surpassed previous tourism records.

According to Skift, Portugal received 2.8 million visitors in the first three months of this year — a significant increase from 1.8 million visitors in the first quarter of 2022 and even a sizable jump from the 2.5 million visitors that Portugal received in the first quarter of 2019.

If this record is any indicator of what’s to come, Portugal will continue to set even more records during the busy summer travel months of this year.

But while popular destinations like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve coast of the south will continue to increase in popularity, here are five underrated destinations in Portugal where you can still avoid crowds.

1. Viana do Castelo

Located in the far northern reaches of Portugal, close to the border with the Spanish region of Galicia, Viana do Castelo is a beautiful underrated city that travelers shouldn’t miss.

Although many travelers visit Porto, few venture much further north. But located less than an hour north of Porto by car, this historic city is well worth a visit.

You can explore a beautiful medieval old town, enjoy the scenery and beaches of northern Portugal, and visit Santa Luzia Basilica, a church on a hill with amazing views over the city.

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2. Sagres

Although it’s technically part of the popular Algarve region of southern Portugal, Sagres feels a world away from the crowded resorts further east.

Located on the westernmost point of the Algarve, this laidback and rugged town is the perfect destination for adventure-seekers.

It’s known as a challenging surfing destination due to the intense waves, although there are also some quieter, sheltered beaches for swimming or relaxing in the sun. Sagres is also a great place for hiking and cycling away from the crowds.

3. Coimbra

Coimbra is a historic riverfront city in central Portugal, located about midway between Porto and Lisbon, that is the perfect underrated destination to explore.

This city is known for its preserved medieval old town, as well as being the home of the University of Coimbra. Founded in 1209, this university is one of the oldest in the world, and it inspired author J.K. Rowling in her descriptions of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.

If you’re looking for a destination to visit in Portugal away from the crowds during the summer, this is a great place to go.

4. Viseu

If you’re looking for a beautiful city that is off the tourist radar in Portugal, look no further than Viseu. Located in central Portugal, this city is often overlooked by visitors.

There’s no train station in Viseu, so you’ll need a car to visit. But it’s worth the effort because you’ll be rewarded with an ancient city with well-preserved medieval streets and architecture.

Viseu is known for its art and culture, especially from the Renaissance period. It’s an excellent destination if you want to get off the beaten path in Portugal.

5. The Azores

The Azores are not part of mainland Portugal at all but rather an archipelago of islands in the Mid-Atlantic. This autonomous region of Portugal is certainly off the beaten path, but it’s worth a visit.

You can get to Ponta Delgada in just 2.5 hours on a nonstop flight from Lisbon. Located on the island of São Miguel, it’s the largest city in the Azores and a gateway for exploring the rest of the islands.

Made up of nine volcanic islands, the Azores are known for having stunning and dramatic scenery and great hiking paths. This is a great place to go to get away from it all.

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June 2, 2023
Portugal Removes All Entry Requirements For Travelers

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Portugal has become the latest country to remove all of its Covid-19 entry requirements.

The wildly popular travel destination was one of the few remaining major tourist destinations to still have relatively strict entry requirements in place. However, following today’s positive announcement, the sunny destination will now join the growing list of other countries on the continent and around the world that have liberated travelers of tests and vaccine passport requirements – just in time for a busy summer of travel.

Whilst the travel situation throughout Europe still looks fraught, with strikes, delays, and cancellations affecting the travel plans of many travelers, being able to visit Portugal without tests or any other kinds of documentation will likely bring some cheer to the great numbers of travelers looking to jet off to the country over the next few months.

Here’s a closer look at what exactly is set to change regarding entry to Portugal, and what else travelers should know about visiting the country.

Portugal Removes Entry Requirements – What Travelers Should Know

The last few months have been full of positive stories for travelers, particularly when it comes to countries dropping their Covid-19 related barriers and opening up to travel once more. However, whilst much of Europe has peeled back their entry requirements in favor of welcoming tourists back, some countries have resisted so far, including Portugal. However, that has now all changed courtesy of an announcement made by the country today.

Prior to today, entry to Portugal was still a relatively tall order for travelers, which saw many flock to alternate destinations on the continent as a result. In order to be able to enter the country, Portugal had required travelers to ensure that they had either proof of a negative Covid-19 test result, proof of recovery from a Covid-19 infection or proof of their vaccination against the virus. However, as of today, travelers will no longer need any of those things to enter.

The change to Portugal’s entry requirements was reported by the country’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) today. It states that travelers will no longer need to present a negative test result in order to fly into the country, nor will they need to show proof of vaccination through either the EU Digital Certificate or any other means.

In short, travelers are now free to enter the country in exactly the same way they were before the pandemic – armed with only a passport and a relevant visa where required.

The change is live now, meaning that travelers flying to the country from July 1, 2022 onwards will find the process of entering the country a relative breeze – just like it is to enter most other European destinations.

Following Portugal’s change, it means that there are just five countries in Europe that are still clinging on to their Covid-19 related entry requirements – Spain, France, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Malta.

According to the official document that brought about the changes, it was made due to the fact that “the epidemiological situation experienced in Portugal following the Covid-19 disease pandemic has remained relatively stable, as a result of the high vaccination coverage, the emergence of new drugs for the serious disease and greater knowledge about the infection”.

The dropping of the entry requirements comes at a strange time for Portugal – not that anyone is complaining – with the country currently reporting some of the highest Covid-19 statistics on the continent. The past week has seen an average of nearly 9,000 daily cases, with early June seeing as many as 70,000 cases reported in one day. However, with summer fast approaching and the country at risk of missing out on another consecutive year of a tourist drought, it seems Portugal has pivoted towards living with Covid-19 – though not entirely.

Whilst it may be a piece of cake entering the country, Portugal is still pretty strict with regards to managing the spread of the virus once travelers arrive. The country’s Minister of the Presidency, Mariana Vieira da Silva, revealed in a press conference this week that mask wearing on public transport, hospitals and pharmacies was still required and strongly recommended in other situations. That said, the change is a positive step in the right direction, and has firmly put Portugal back on the map as a serious destination for travelers to consider this summer.

Read More:

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July 2, 2022