Easter break is synonymous with a few days of travel! This is usually the time of year when you really feel like getting out of the city to discover new places and share new experiences with friends and family.
Holy Week, which begins with the Good Friday holiday on April 3 (two days before Easter Sunday), is therefore the perfect excuse to turn on your GPS and go in search of new things to do, exploring activities you don’t always find in your local area.
Go in search of villages and small towns, sample different cuisines, and try to experience everything Portugal has to offer. This is the goal of our guide, which we suggest you pack in your luggage for this Easter break.
With this itinerary, you’ll travel across Portugal from north to south, from Porto to the ever-sunny city of Faro, from the interior to the coast.
Come along with us on this journey, which starts in the Central region and Lisbon, but can then take you north or south, to the northern part of the country or the Algarve, respectively.
Table Of Contents
- Lisbon and Surroundings: Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, and Setúbal
- Central Portugal: Óbidos, Nazaré, Fátima, and Mira de Aire
- Northern Portugal: Gerês, Sistelo, Ponte da Barca, Ponte de Lima, and Viana do Castelo
- Braga and Guimarães
- Historic Villages of Portugal
- Porto and its surroundings
- Arouca and Aveiro
- Southern Portugal: Lagoa, Faro, Vilamoura, and Olhão
Lisbon and Surroundings: Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, and Setúbal
Every day we write about Lisbon and what there is still to discover in its surroundings, such as the palaces in Sintra, the beaches of Costa and Linha, and , in the city center, the monuments and places that are must-sees. But let’s take it one step at a time!
Lisbon
Editorial Credit: Video Media Studio Europe | Shutterstock.com
Speaking of religious sites in the city, in addition to the capital’s most beautiful churches, you really must visit the capital’s most innovative churches: they’re beautiful and unlike anything you’re used to seeing.
And since vacation trips aren’t just about places to visit, there are a few spots in the city we’d love for you to check out:
To start with, if you’re looking for brunch and, at the same time, a place to do some shopping, JAC Brunch & Concept Store, in Príncipe Real, is our suggestion this Easter.
Photo by @vleandro
If you decide to focus more on sports during your mini-vacation, then our tip is to take advantage of our ocean and, of course, our waves, by taking a lesson with a specialized instructor in Costa da Caparica.
@marc-roy
But if you’ve opted for a more romantic Easter getaway for two, our suggestion is , without a doubt , this sunset cruise along the Tagus, complete with a DJ and stops at Praça do Comércio, Cais do Sodré, Cristo Rei, Torre de Belém, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, MAAT, and a return to the South and Southeast River Station.
@liz-deangelo
To wrap up the day, until two or three in the morning, we have a non-alcoholic suggestion:the Pub Crawl: Zero Proof Party, where you’ll get to know the city better at night.
Sintra
@levi-ari-pronk
In Portugal’s most romantic village, located so close to the city, there’s so much to see and explore.
The first thing that comes to mind is visiting its fantastic and beautiful palaces,but our guide will take you to many more places you should see in this charming village.
Cascais
@maksym-pozniak-haraburda
Before you arrive in Cascais, where we’ve also created a very special guide to help you have the best time possible, there’s a train route you really shouldn’t miss: the beaches along the Cascais Line.
It’s a magnificent trip you can take with friends or family, and you’re sure to have a great day.
Setúbal
@municipiodesetubal
We’ve been there over the past few weekends, mainly to sample the best grilled fish on this side of the Tagus and on the terrace at Portinho da Arrábida (pictured).
With the days getting longer and warmer, it feels great to stroll along the waterfront by the Sado River, as well as explore a bit more of the Serra da Arrábida, perhaps even heading to one of our favorite beaches.
Beyond the mountains and beaches, Setúbal has so much more to offer, which is exactly why we’ve put together a series of suggestions and tips in a handy guide you can save to your favorites.
Central Portugal: Óbidos, Nazaré, Fátima, and Mira de Aire
Óbidos
@rickpsd
This trip begins in Óbidos, one of the country’s medieval towns, already considered one of the most beautiful and romantic in all of Europe.
There are many reasons to visit Óbidos this Easter. First of all, because it’s less than an hour from Lisbon, and second , because that’s where you’ll find one of the best ginjinhas in the country—in addition to Lisbon’s specialties, of course!
Nazaré
@municipiodanazare
A few kilometers further north lies Nazaré, famous for its giant waves, but which during Holy Week organizes a series of activities typical of this fishing village.
In Nazaré, you simply must try Ti Carolina’s Caldeirada à Nazarena at the Aleluia restaurant or a seafood platter at the Casalinho restaurant, always featuring the freshest fish and shellfish.
Fátima
Wax statues of the Three Little Shepherds of Fátima at the Wax Museum in the same town
And, since it’s Holy Week, a visit to Fátima around Easter is practically a must. After all, this town is the country’s religious capital.
And in Fátima, there’s no getting around it: you must visit the Sanctuary, Portugal’s largest pilgrimage site, and the famous Wax Museum, where, in addition to the famous scene of the Three Little Shepherds and the Miracle of Fátima, you’ll find around 120 wax figures that tell the religious history of this region, the country , and the world itself.
Porto de Mós
By Joãofcf – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11638378
Before heading back to Lisbon, and since you’re near Fátima, take a quick detour to Porto de Mós, where there are two places we love: the Porto de Mós Castle and the Mira de Aire Caves, both just over an hour from Lisbon.
Porto de Mós Castle is simply beautiful and quite distinct from the castles we’re more accustomed to seeing in the country.
The highlight is undoubtedly its two green towers, and its historical significance lies in the defense of the cities of Leiria and Coimbra during the Christian Reconquest.
The Mira de Aire Caves have been open to the public since 1974 and are considered the largest in the country, spanning over 11,500 meters, 600 of which you can explore.
The beauty of these two places alone would be more than enough reason to travel to this part of the country during the Easter holidays.
Northern Portugal: Gerês, Sistelo, Ponte da Barca, Ponte de Lima, and Viana do Castelo
Gerês
Photo: Ricardo Teixeira Photography / Shutterstock.com
This trip begins way up north, in the heart of the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only protected area in Portugal classified as a National Park, located in the Minho and Trás-os-Montes regions, near the border with Spain.
Here, there is no shortage of options or attractions for nature lovers. The Gerês area is famous for its natural pools and waterfalls, such as Portela do Homem; Poço Azul Waterfall; Arado Waterfall; Sete Lagoas Waterfall, among others.
Amid landscapes bursting with stunning greenery, you’ll find vestiges of bygone eras, such as charming villages, monasteries, and medieval castles. For example, we recommend a visit to Soajo, a place famous for its communal granaries— but that’s not all.
@filipasantosousa
If you enjoy traveling back in time, then you really must take a “trip” to the village of Lindoso, where you’ll find one of the most beautiful medieval castles near Porto. In addition, Gerês has other points of interest, namely:
- The village of Castro Laboreiro;
- The Caniçada and Vilarinho das Furnas dams;
- And for those who enjoy religious tourism—the Sanctuaries of São Bento da Porta Aberta and Senhora da Abadia.
Sistelo: a stop in ‘Portuguese Tibet’
Photo: @filipasantosousa
Located in the heart of Alto Minho, in the municipality of Arcos de Valdevez, the village of Sistelo is a true natural monument waiting to be visited.
Known as the Portuguese ‘Little Tibet,’ this place is particularly famous for its stunning landscape full of terraces, which even earned a mention from José Saramago.
For those who appreciate rural ‘paradises,’ this is a spot to keep in mind. In addition, there are other attractions such as viewpoints, traditional granite houses, and hiking trails.
Ponte da Barca and Ponte de Lima
Photo: @tassianemedeiros / Unsplash
We remain in the Minho region, but this time we’re heading to two very old historic towns, both nestled along the banks of the Lima River.
First, we suggest a stop in Ponte da Barca, home to singers of desgarradas (a form of singing challenge).
On the same day, you can easily explore Ponte da Barca and then head straight to Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal’s oldest towns. The town surprises visitors with its medieval charm, as well as the beauty of its Roman bridge.
A key stop on the Portuguese Way of St. James, Ponte de Lima is also perfect for a visit during the Easter holidays thanks to its excellent culinary offerings. Trust us, you can’t leave here without trying the famous Sarrabulho or Rojões à Moda de Ponte de Lima.
Viana do Castelo
Photo: Magik Blaze / Shutterstock.com
If you’re looking for an Easter vacation destination with a beach but rich in tradition, then you can always head to Viana do Castelo. Naturally, this isn’t the best time of year to “soak up the sun.” However, a stroll along the seashore is always a treat.
Plus, the scenery is worth plenty of photos. Located at the mouth of the Lima River, between the sea and the mountains, Viana do Castelo is a true feast for the eyes. To enjoy the view even more, we suggest a visit to the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, a must-see stop.
If you do decide to visit this Minho town during Holy Week, a special program awaits you, featuring local Easter traditions, music, and typical culinary delights. After all, don’t forget—in Minho, we eat a lot and we eat well!
Braga and Guimarães
Braga
Photo: @angelacompagnone / Unsplash
The Minho capital of Braga, known as the “city of archbishops,” is the perfect place to spend your Easter vacation. After all, it has been one of the country’s most religious sites for centuries . Filled with Baroque churches, Braga celebrates Holy Week like few other places.
As such, from April 2 to 9, the program of Easter celebrations includes traditional processions, as well as exhibitions and concerts. A full program to welcome the thousands of visitors who head to Braga during Holy Week.
In this context, the three most anticipated events are: the “little donkey” procession; the Ecce Homo procession; and the Burial of the Lord procession.
Each one is worth seeing, but don’t stop there. Take the opportunity to pay a visit to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
Guimarães
Photo: Sopotnicki / Shutterstock
Our journey through Portugal continues, taking us this time to Guimarães. The “Cradle City” is one of the “crown jewels” of the Minho region and Northern Portugal.
If you love history and cities with medieval charm, then this is definitely the perfect destination for your Easter vacation. Here, you’ll find authentic heritage treasures, such as:
- Guimarães Castle;
- The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança;
- Penha Park and the Penha Cable Car, among others.
To make it all even more appealing, during Holy Week, you’ll find a special program featuring religious celebrations and more. For example, during this period, the city of Guimarães will host, among other initiatives:
- The exhibition “The Passion in Guimarães”;
- The International Festival of Religious Music.
Historic Villages of Portugal
Sortelha, Marialva, Almeida, Trancoso, Castelo Rodrigo, and Monsanto
Editorial Credit: VR2000 | Shutterstock.com | View of the Historic Village of Marialva.
After Minho, how about taking a step back in time? The Easter holidays could be the perfect opportunity to set out to discover Portugal’s Historic Villages. But what exactly are they? It is a network created in 1991 with the aim of restoring and promoting historic sites in the Beira region.
Each one is small in size but great in significance. Moreover, they are all very special and unique. In other words, a great reason to “immerse” yourself in the Portuguese countryside and discover its medieval charms, the villages with stone and/or schist houses, as well as its humble people.
We have already visited all 12 Historic Villages of Portugal, and while we enjoyed them all, we would like to highlight the following here:
- Sortelha;
- Marialva;
- Almeida;
- Trancoso;
- Castelo Rodrigo;
- Monsanto.
What are you waiting for to hit the road? It’s time to rediscover these ancient landscapes! Plus, the cuisine is incredible, with excellent selections of cheeses, charcuterie, and meats. A glimpse into “deep Portugal,” yet endowed with unparalleled charm.
Editorial Credit: LuisPinaPhotography | Shutterstock.com | Aerial view of Monsanto.
Porto and its surroundings
Every day, we write with passion and pride about Invicta. We love exploring every nook and cranny of the city, admiring its gardens and monuments, but also “discovering” its most secret spots.
For those who live here, it’s an unparalleled blessing, but if you’re from outside Porto and are thinking of coming here for Easter break, then pay attention!
Porto
Photo: John_Silver / Shutterstock.com
Speaking of religious sites in the city, we believe a visit to the Capela das Almas or the Porto Cathedral is (almost) a must . But since Easter vacations aren’t just about religious sites, there are a few spots we’d love for you to discover and/or experience.
To start with, if you’re looking for brunch and a nice outdoor terrace to relax on, LM Art Kitchen, right on Rua de Cedofeita, is our recommendation.
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One thing is certain: you can’t come to Porto without trying our famous wine or visiting one of the many wine cellars. After all, it’s almost like going to the Vatican and not seeing the Pope, don’t you think?
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But if you’re one of those who prefers a good craft beer instead , don’t worry. If there’s one thing Porto has plenty of, it’s great spots to cool off. However, how about living a true beer experience with a visit to a brewery?
Arouca and Aveiro
Arouca
Editorial Credit: Luis Pedro Fonseca / Shutterstock.com
Located in the Porto Metropolitan Area, the municipality of Arouca is a slightly different suggestion from the previous ones. Why?
This destination is especially suitable for those who want to spend their Easter vacation surrounded by nature.
The municipality is famous for the Paiva Walkways. However, it is not the only “adventure attraction” or outdoor activity worth highlighting.
Photo: lone wolf7 / Shutterstock.com
In this context, we also recommend, for example:
- The 516 Arouca—one of the world’s largest suspension footbridges;
- The magical, abandoned village of Drave— perfect for those who enjoy long hikes;
- The Pedras Parideiras – a rare phenomenon in the world;
- The Frecha da Mizarela Waterfall.
And if you love to eat, then the municipality of Arouca also promises to surprise you with its Arouca-style veal recipes and its delicious convent sweets.
Aveiro
Photo: @rresenden / Unsplash
Now, it’s time to head to Aveiro. The so-called “Portuguese Venice” is famous for its canals and moliceiros, but also for its sweets.
If you haven’t tried ovos moles or a tripa yet (and yes, it’s a traditional sweet, not a dish to fill you up at lunch or dinner), then now is the time to do so.
Besides filling our bellies, Aveiro is a city that looks great in any photo. During this Easter break, take the opportunity to explore nearby places, such as Costa da Nova.
By the way, if you decide to head to Aveiro, be sure to stop in Ovar, where you’ll find the best sponge cake in the country (at least that’s what we think).
Southern Portugal: Lagoa, Faro, Vilamoura, and Olhão
For now, if you’ve decided to head south from Lisbon toward the Algarve, we’ve put together an itinerary that’s perfect for enjoying your Easter break in the south of the country:
Lagoa
@vleandro
Tired of the city’s frenetic pace and constant noise? It’s time to pack your bags, hit play on your favorite playlist, and head south. Your destination is the Algarve, which at this time of year reveals its best-kept secret: unparalleled tranquility, perfect for a family road trip.
We’ve chosen Vale da Lapa Village Resort as your first stop; it invites you to slow down and is much more than just a place to sleep; it’s the oasis where your family will reclaim the time and space lost in the daily grind.
And you’ll have total autonomy, thanks to the accommodation format of villas and apartments, which puts you back in control of your days. Wake up slowly, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and savor a comfort that will make you feel right at home (but with the bonus of the Algarve’s fresh air). It’s the perfect base to recharge your batteries before the real action begins.
Faro
@municipiodefaro
The capital of the Algarve region is Faro, a place with plenty to see but still relatively free of tourists, at least compared to the “typical” Algarve.
In Faro, we suggest a visit to the Arco da Vila, a monument classified as a National Monument since 1910, which will take you directly to the “old” part of the city, where cobblestone streets and an Arab-style gate—considered the only one of its kind in Portugal— will transport you back in time.
Still in Faro, and since it’s getting hotter by the day, how about a trip to the famous Faro Island? Here, besides taking your first swim of the year (the water is always warmer here), you can enjoy the rich cuisine of this part of the country, especially the fresh fish.
Vilamoura
@OAM7717
A tour from north to south Portugal would naturally have to include Vilamoura. After all, this is one of the top tourist destinations, whether for Easter or summer.
Known for its large marina, golf courses, and enchanting beaches, Vilamoura during Holy Week offers the chance to experience the town in a different, yet equally magical, way.
Olhão
©Vitor Oliveira
Olhão is one of the Algarve towns that has gained some visibility in recent years .
Far from the tourist-filled Algarve cities, Olhão is a quieter town with incredible cuisine, largely thanks to its reliance on the marine bounty of the famous Ria Formosa, where oysters and other shellfish stand out , fully satisfying us with flavors that evoke summer days.
Exploring the Ria Formosa is undoubtedly the plan we recommend, but be sure to visit the Olhão Market, which is a unique experience in this town.
Divided into two sections— the fruit and vegetable market and the fish market —these are two must-visit spots in Olhão. And on Saturdays, there’s also an outdoor market featuring producers from various nearby towns.
After shopping, in the area around these markets, you’ll find restaurants, ice cream shops, and bars where you can enjoy one of the best and most incredible sunsets in the country.
Whatever your destination for Easter break or a weekend getaway, we believe this guide will be your best friend. After all, from north to south, Portugal has plenty of suggestions for every taste.
Start planning your next trip now, whether you’re traveling alone or with others, because there’s nothing better than (re)discovering our beautiful country from one end to the other!
This article was co-written by Valter Leandro and Filipa Santos Sousa.