What to Do in Portugal – A Guide Tailored for You

Sun, beaches, great vibes, amazing food, and friends—sounds good, doesn’t it? Welcome to Portugal! With a population of over 10 million, Portugal offers the perfect balance between relaxation and fun, featuring incredible cities to explore and hidden corners full of surprises. In this blog, you’ll find tips and info on what to do in Portugal if you decide to study here. Keep reading!

Starting a new life in a different country can be the best decision you’ve ever made. Alongside discovering a new culture, making new friends, and fully embracing your freedom, studying abroad provides invaluable benefits for your career! And what better place to start this new adventure than Portugal? You’ll never feel alone here. The locals are welcoming, friendly, and full of life. Portuguese food is incomparable—ever tried bacalhau com natas, a francesinha, or traditional arroz de pato? They’re so good they’ll leave you wanting more.

But the best thing about Portugal is that you’re not limited to local cuisine. You’ll easily find Italian, Mexican, or Indian restaurants anywhere, especially in the capital. Wondering about the places you can explore in the country? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

After a day of classes, unwind with a walk in the bustling Baixa district. Listen to street music, browse the shops, or take photos at Terreiro do Paço.

For a more tranquil vibe, Belém offers stunning gardens perfect for reading alone or having a picnic with friends. You can also visit the Belém Tower and Padrão dos Descobrimentos—iconic monuments with truly unique beauty (note: there’s an entry fee for the interiors). Don’t leave without trying the famous Pastéis de Belém!

Located in Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira features lush greenery, mysterious passageways, and fairy-tale-like architecture. Nearby, the Pena Palace—one of the world’s most beautiful palaces—is an absolute must-see!

Feeling adventurous? Why not try surfing lessons when the weather’s warm? While the record-breaking 26.2m wave was surfed in Nazaré, beginners should stick to Lisbon’s beaches, where you’ll find plenty of activities.

Enjoy sunbathing in the breathtaking Serra da Arrábida, where the turquoise sea meets lush green landscapes—absolutely Instagram-worthy!

For bars, head to Bairro Alto, where you’ll find lively spots to enjoy with friends. Prefer clubs? Check out SUD Lisboa, Lust In Rio, or LuxFrágil.

On a hot summer day (temperatures often hit 30°C in Lisbon), treat yourself to rolled ice cream. These customizable treats are made right before your eyes!

Don’t miss the chance to explore Lisbon’s zoo, where you’ll see various animal species and enjoy shows, including a dolphin performance.

Love the tranquility of the ocean? Explore the Oceanário de Lisboa to immerse yourself in marine ecosystems and see diverse sea creatures.

On the first Sunday of each month, you can visit many museums in Lisbon for free. Here are a few to add to your list:

Porto’s compact layout makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Don’t miss famous spots like the Lello Bookstore (€5 entry), Avenida dos Aliados, or Café Majestic—renowned for its delicious croissants. While in Porto, take a walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning views (and bring a camera!).

Here are a few nearby gems to explore together:

Nido Portugal offers residences in Lisbon (and soon in Porto!). Our comfortable, secure spaces include gyms, social lounges, and wellness rooms, along with psychology services and volunteer opportunities. Ready to explore? Visit Nido Portugal. We’re waiting for you!