Discover Portugal: Six immersive ways to experience its culture

Few nations offer such a rich variety within a compact area as Portugal. From Neolithic carvings and Roman ruins to Moorish castles, breathtaking mountains, pristine beaches, and picturesque towns, there's beauty at every turn.

Summer festivals emerge in serene rural towns, while the coasts and mountains host thrilling adventure sports. Meanwhile, local artisans fill shops and markets with delightful farm-to-table meals and handcrafted goods.

Music, art, history, and culture are intricately woven into the nation’s identity, making Portugal not just a remarkable travel destination, but a place that truly caters to all.

Here are some of our top recommendations for immersing yourself in the essence of Portugal.

Thinking about a trip to Portugal? Plan your weekend getaway to Lisbon

Experience a Fado performance in Coimbra

Fado is one of the first things that springs to mind when you think of Portugal. This distinctive genre originated in the taverns of Lisbon, with another version emerging from the northern city of Coimbra.

Coimbra hosts the oldest Portuguese-language university in the world, which inspired the Harry Potter school uniforms. Here, students gather in the streets to sing about love, longing, and their cherished university.

In contrast to Lisboa’s Fado, Coimbra’s version is performed outdoors rather than in taverns, with guitars tuned lower to enhance the outdoor acoustics. The lyrics are poetic, well-prepared, and generally more optimistic than those of the Lisboete style, with all-male performers dressed in traditional black university attire and capes.

Enjoy a performance at one of Coimbra’s renowned Fado venues, such as à Capella or Café Santa Cruz.

Explore Portugal’s rich artistic heritage

The Portuguese countryside is brimming with cultural heritage, offering unique experiences in villages from north to south.

Visit Podence or Lazarim during Carnival to witness the Caretos in their vibrant costumes and wooden devil masks, or head to Alentejo to experience thriving artisan crafts. At local markets, like the monthly Azeitão Market, you’ll find traditional basket weaving, ceramics, leatherwork, and tapestries on display—be sure to pick up some souvenirs.

In Portugal’s art scene, quality is paramount. While large institutions may be scarce, numerous galleries feature distinctive works from both the past and present, including pieces by celebrated local artists. Don’t miss the Museu Coleção Berardo in Lisbon’s Centro Cultural de Belém for bold exhibits, a tribute to Paula Rego in Cascais, and the innovative displays at the art-deco Serralves in Porto.

From Globus | Art & Soul: Portugal By Design, awaken your spirit in Portugal with complimentary YourChoice Excursions, allowing you to choose your own path of inspiration.

Indulge in Culinary Delights

Another type of artisanal creation that brings fame to Portugal is its exquisite cuisine.

Embark on a culinary journey through the country, savoring cheese from the Serra de Estrela; olive oil from Alentejo; or canned sardines from Pinhais in Matosinhos, the only cannery that still operates entirely by hand, maintaining a traditional artisanal process.

Local small-scale growers, artisanal farmers, and producers across the country create wines, cheeses, olive oils, honey, preserves, sweets, and more, each product reflecting its regional origins.

Don't miss the wine from the Douro, or indulge in port wine from Porto. Try the Nevadas from Pencova, and of course, the iconic Pastel de Belém, available just outside the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, where this delicious pastry originated.

Embrace the Outdoors

After indulging in delicious food, you might feel the urge to get outdoors—whether you want to relax on a stunning blue-flag beach, embark on a scenic hike through the hills, or paddle in the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal has it all.

Surfing enthusiasts should check out the World Surf Reserve in Ericeira, catch the WSL event in Supertubos at Peniche, or enjoy the breathtaking views of the world's largest waves from the clifftops of Nazaré.

For trekking lovers, explore the stunning Rota Vicentina along Alentejo’s southern coast or hike through Peneda-Gerês National Park, one of Portugal’s hidden gems.

While beachgoers flock to the sunny shores of the Algarve, don’t miss the authentic experiences along the Silver Coast—a quieter stretch of coastline between Ericeira and Porto, featuring favorites like Santa Cruz and Figueira da Foz.

From Globus | Taste of Portugal – Journey from Porto to Lisbon, where your senses will be delighted by natural beauty, exquisite wines, delicious flavors, and remarkable artistry on this guided tour.

Immerse Yourself in History

Now that you’re rejuvenated, it’s time to delve deeper into Portugal’s history, which encompasses significant influences from the Celts, Romans, and the Moorish Empire. The finest Roman ruins can be found in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city and the capital of Alentejo. The 2,000-year-old Temple of Diana is one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks, though it’s smaller compared to the Roman ruins at Conímbriga, near Coimbra.

The Moors established strongholds further south, in towns like Aljezur (whose name derives from the Arabic word aljezeer, meaning 'the island') and Silves (home to one of the most well-preserved Moorish castles). In Mértola, close to the Spanish border, you can even partake in the lively annual Islamic Festival, celebrating Moorish heritage and Arabic culture.

Embrace the City of Light

Of course, no visit to Portugal is complete without its capital, Lisbon, known as Cidade de Luz (the City of Light). This name is well-deserved, as the city’s picturesque panorama of cobblestone lanes, ancient landmarks, and elegant cathedrals has been shaped over centuries.

As you wander through the charming streets of Bairro Alto or stroll along the Tejo River, notice how the light glimmers off the azulejo (ceramic tile) adorned buildings and dances on the water's surface. Don’t miss a breathtaking sunset from one of Lisbon’s twenty miradouros (viewpoints), such as Miradouro de Santa Luzia or Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.

From Globus | Portugal In Depth – This enlightening tour takes you from the golden sands to the rich historical treasures, showcasing the most captivating sights of Portugal.

Globus Tours brings you the best of Portugal

Trying to capture everything a country offers in a single itinerary can be quite challenging, which is why seeking assistance is beneficial. Regardless of your interests, Globus Tours has a perfect getaway for you, your family, or your group, and can easily tailor a customized experience to meet your specific needs.

Whether you’re seeking a classic Portuguese Escape, aiming to discover the Art & Soul of the nation, or looking for an 'Escape' from the crowds, Globus Tours can manage the planning while still allowing you the freedom to select your own activities.

If time permits, consider adding the Azores Islands to your itinerary. The residents of this small archipelago embrace a slower, friendlier, and more authentic lifestyle, providing a memorable conclusion to any Portuguese journey.