Most people come to Portugal for the big things, Lisbon, Porto, pastel de nata, maybe a trip to Sintra. But the real charm is in the smaller moments. The things we grew up with. The habits we don’t even think of until someone asks.
Here are 5 Things Only Locals Tell You To Do in Portugal, but if you’re reading this, consider yourself one of them.
Eat a bola de Berlim on the beach
It’s a custard-filled doughnut, sold by someone walking the sand, shouting.
Don’t worry about the cream or the sand. That’s part of the fun.
Watch a Benfica match at Estádio da Luz
Even if you don’t care about football, go. The energy, the songs, the way people feel everything out loud, you’ll understand something about Portugal.
Eat grilled sardines in the street during summer festivals
In summer festivals, neighborhoods fill with music, smoke, and people dancing. The sardines come on a piece of bread. No plate. No knife. Just your hands and some wine.
Go to the eastern Algarve for warm water
Most tourists go west. Locals go east. Tavira, Olhão or Monte Gordo, the water is warmer, the beaches are quiet, and the sea is calm.
Light a candle in Fátima
Even if you’re not religious, go. It’s peaceful. People come from all over the country to leave a small light for something or someone. It’s simple and powerful.
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