5 Secrets about Portugal That Will Surprise You

Beloved by tourists because of its warm beaches, enchanting cities and engaging culture, Portugal delivers charm and affordability in Europe. Tradition and modern life mix throughout Portugal, from the bright city streets of Lisbon to the Douro Valley’s hillsides full of grape vines. Portugal Tour Packages are great for experiencing usual spots, but beyond those places are hidden treasures that even long-time travellers may overlook. Looking into these lesser-known sides of Portugal lets people experience its many sides and offers more to those who explore. You might not know these secret facts which can definitely make your journey more interesting.

Here Are the Secrets about Portugal That Will Surprise You

1. The World’s Oldest Bookstore Is in Lisbon

A Guinness World Book certificate attests to Livraria Bertrand’s status as the oldest operating bookshop, and it is located in the Chiado area. Its cosy oak shelves and tiled floors demonstrate that it is more than just a store; it is a renowned fixture in the neighbourhood. Many locals browse the shelves for books by Portuguese writers like Fernando Pessoa and you have to pay around €10-15 for the English editions. You won’t have to pay anything to get in and a coffee there is only €1.50. You can enjoy the atmosphere and avoid the crowds by coming on a weekday morning which is a hidden gem that a few locals know.

2. Portugal’s “Floating Garden” Islands

Due to their many beautiful green areas and exotic lagoons, the Azores archipelago in the Atlantic is sometimes called Portugal’s “floating gardens.” The islands are less crowded than the mainland and places like São Miguel have attractions like the Sete Cidades twin lakes, whose clear, blue waters make them special. A budget round-trip flight from Lisbon on Ryanair costs €50-100 and if you want a guesthouse in the city, it will cost around €30 per night. Hikers say that exploring on your own (for free) is better than taking expensive tours, as you will find a peaceful side of Portugal away from the Algarve beaches.

3. Cork Is a National Treasure

Alentejo’s cork oak forests supply more than half of the world’s cork. Despite being virtually ignored by many tourists, this sustainable industry influences both how the economy and land look in the area. Head to some cork farms nearby for €15-20 guided visits to see how their bark is removed every nine years in a safe way for the trees. Residents of Portugal turn cork into wine stoppers and handbags, head to the markets like Lisbon’s Feira da Ladra to get some for €5-10. Because of this secret, Portugal’s rustic charm is more unique.

4. A Hidden Roman City Beneath Lisbon

Nestled beneath Lisbon’s bustling streets is Núcleos Arqueológicos da Rua dos Correeiros, a surviving Roman settlement that dates back to the first century. Workers discovered the free museum, which houses historic mosaics, fish-salting tanks, and relics from old aqueducts, while remodelling the Copenhagen bank. Travellers may see a distinct side of Lisbon with guided tours, which are available online and run Tuesday through Saturday. Locals are willing to discuss their Roman heritage, frequently while savouring coffee and pastries at local cafés for as little as €1-2.

5. Fado Isn’t Just in Lisbon

Though fado is closely tied in people’s minds to Lisbon’s Alfama district, Coimbra, too, has a surprising and distinct fado scene. While Lisbon’s fado is known for melancholy, Coimbra’s version is different: male students wear black capes and usually sing outside under the moon. At À Capella which was once a chapel, tickets cost €10 and glasses of wine go for €3. Spring is a good time to visit the city, since locals in university festivals give free outdoor concerts that display the country’s music.

Conclusion

There is much more to discover in Portugal than its name and great foods: from the oldest bookstore on the planet to Roman historical sites. These off-the-beaten-path attractions let tourists see more of Portugal’s culture, past and nature. Hiking past volcanic lakes or attending a fado concert in Coimbra will mean plenty of excitement. Planning your trip with Portugal Holiday Packages allows you to visit these special places together with well-known spots, for a memorable and lower-cost holiday. Bring excitement, expect the new and let Portugal’s hidden charms catch you by surprise.