The Easter vacations are synonymous with a few days to travel! This is usually the time of year when you really want to get out of town and discover new places and share new experiences with friends and family.
Holy Week, which starts on the Good Friday holiday on March 29 (two days before Easter Sunday), is therefore the perfect excuse to turn on the GPS and go in search of new things to do, exploring activities that you don’t always find in your home area.
Go in search of villages and towns, taste other cuisines and try to experience all that Portugal has to offer. This is the aim of our guide, which we suggest you take with you on your Easter vacation.
With this itinerary you’ll travel through Portugal from north to south, from Invicta to the always sunny city of Faro, from the interior to the coast.
Come with us on this journey, which starts in the center of the country and Lisbon, but can then turn upwards or downwards to the north of the country or the Algarve, respectively.
Table Of Contents
- Center of the country: Óbidos, Nazaré, Fátima and Mira de Aire
- Lisbon and its surroundings: Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and Setúbal
- North of the country: Gerês, Ponte da Barca, Ponte de Lima and Viana do Castelo
- Braga and Guimarães
- Historic Villages of Portugal
- Porto and its surroundings
- Arouca and Aveiro
- South of the country: Faro, Olhão and Vilamoura
Center of the country: Óbidos, Nazaré, Fátima and Mira de Aire
Óbidos
This trip starts in Óbidos, one of the country’s medieval villages, already considered one of the most beautiful and romantic in all of Europe.
There are many reasons to visit Óbidos on your Easter vacation. First of all, it’s less than an hour from Lisbon, and secondly, it’s where you’ll find some of the best ginjinhas in the country, as well as Lisbon specialties, of course!
Nazaré
A few kilometers further north you’ll find Nazaré, famous for its giant waves, but which organizes a series of activities typical of this fishing village during Holy Week.
In Nazaré, it’s also a must to try Ti Carolina’s Caldeirada à Nazarena at the Aleluia restaurant or a Mariscada at the Casalinho restaurant, always with the best fresh fish and seafood.
Fátima
And because it’s Holy Week, it’s almost obligatory to visit Fátima at Easter time. After all, this town is the religious capital of the country.
And in Fátima you can’t go wrong: you should 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
Before heading back to Lisbon, and since you’re close to Fátima, take a trip to Porto de Mós, where there are two places we love: 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 different from the castles we’re used to seeing around the country.
The highlight is its two green towers, and its historical importance goes back to 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 with over 11,500 meters, 600 of which you can explore.
The beauty of these two places alone would be more than enough justification to travel to this part of the country during the Easter vacations.
Lisbon and its 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 on the Costa and Linha and , in the city center, the monuments and places that are a must-see. But let’s go in parts!
Lisbon
Speaking of religious sites in the city, in addition to the most beautiful churches in the capital, you really must visit the most innovative churches in the capital: they are beautiful and different from what you’re used to seeing.
And because vacation trips aren’t all about places to visit, there are a few spots in the city we’d like you to know about:
For starters, 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.
If on your mini-holidays you decide to dedicate yourself more to sport, then our tip is to take advantage of our sea and, of course, our waves, by taking a lesson with a specialized instructor in Costa da Caparica.
But if you’ve opted for a more romantic Easter vacation as a couple, our suggestion is clearly this sunset tour along the Tagus, with a DJ and passing through Praça do Comércio, Cais do Sodré , Cristo Rei, Torre de Belém , Padrão dos Descobrimentos, MAAT and back to Estação Fluvial Sul e Sueste.
For something more classic, there’s no mistaking it: you really have to take advantage of this Pairings plan at the Palácio do Visconde. In this experience in a 19th century palace, you’ll enjoy a quiet afternoon full of glamor. Definitely not to be missed!
To end the day, until two or three in the morning, we have an alcohol-free suggestion: the Pub Crawl: Zero Proof Party, where you can get to know the city better at night.
Sintra
In Portugal’s most romantic village, so close to the city, there is so much to see and explore.
The idea of visiting its fantastic and beautiful palaces immediately springs to mind, but our guide will take you to many more places you should visit in this typical village.
Cascais
Before you get to Cascais, where we’ve also created a very special guide for you to enjoy to the fullest, there’s a train journey you really must get to know: the beaches of the Cascais Line.
It’s a magnificent trip that you can take with friends or family and you’re sure to have a wonderful day.
Setúbal
We’ve been there over the last few weekends, mainly sampling the best grilled fish on this side of the Tagus , and on the Portinho da Arrábida terrace (pictured).
As the days get longer and warmer, it feels good to take a stroll along the waterfront by the Sado, as well as to explore a little more of the Serra da Arrábida, perhaps to one of our favorite beaches.
In addition to the mountains and beaches, Setúbal has much more to offer, which is why we’ve put together a series of suggestions and tips in a handy guide that you can bookmark.
North of the country: Gerês, Ponte da Barca, Ponte de Lima and Viana do Castelo
Gerês
This trip starts in the north, in the heart of the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only Portuguese protected area 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 and attractions for nature tourism 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.
Among landscapes filled with stunning greenery, you’ll find vestiges of other times, such as charming villages, monasteries and medieval castles. For example, we recommend a visit to Soajo, a place famous for its community granaries, but not only.
If you like to travel back in time, then you really must go to the village of Lindoso, where you’ll find one of the most beautiful medieval castles near Porto. Gerês also has other points of interest, including:
- The village of Castro Laboreiro;
- The Caniçada and Vilarinho das Furnas dams;
- And for those who like religious tourism – the Sanctuaries of São Bento da Porta Aberta and Senhora da Abadia.
Ponte da Barca and Ponte de Lima
We’re still in the Minho region, but this time we’re going to two very old historic towns, both “leaning” against the banks of the River Lima.
First of all, we suggest a visit to Ponte da Barca, a land of desgarradas (challenge singing).
On the same day, you can get to know Ponte da Barca and then set off for Ponte de Lima, one of the oldest towns in Portugal. The town surprises with its medieval features, but also with the beauty of the Roman bridge.
A crucial point on the Portuguese Way of St. James, Ponte de Lima is also the perfect place to visit during the Easter vacations due to the quality of its gastronomic offer. Believe me, you can’t leave here without trying the famous Sarrabulho or the Rojões à Moda de Ponte de Lima.
Viana do Castelo
If you’re looking for an Easter vacation destination with a beach but full of tradition, then you can always head to Viana do Castelo. Naturally, this isn’t the best time of year to “toast in the sun”. However, a stroll by the sea always feels good.
What’s more, the landscape is worthy of many photographs. Located at the mouth of the River Lima, between the sea and the mountains, Viana do Castelo is a real treat for the eyes. To appreciate the view even better, we suggest a visit to the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, a must-see.
If you do decide to visit the Minho city during Holy Week, there’ s also a special program waiting for you, with local Easter traditions, bars and typical gastronomic products. After all, don’t forget,in Minho you eat a lot and well!
Braga and Guimarães
Braga
The Minho capital of Braga, known as the “city of the archbishops”, is the perfect place to spend the Easter vacations. After all, it has been one of the most religious places in the country for centuries. Filled with baroque churches, Braga celebrates Holy Week like few others.
From April 2 to 9, the program of Easter celebrations includes the traditional processions, but also exhibitions and concerts. A complete program to welcome the thousands of visitors who flock to Braga during Holy Week.
In this context, the most eagerly awaited triad is as follows: the “burrinha” procession; the Ecce Homo procession and the Burial of the Lord procession.
Each one is worth attending, but don’t stop there. Take the opportunity to visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guimarães
Our journey through Portugal continues, this time taking us to Guimarães. The “Cradle City” is one of the “crown jewels” of the Minho region and the north of Portugal.
If you like history and cities with medieval features, then this is 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 Cable Car, among others.
To make things even more enjoyable, during Holy Week you’ll find a special program of religious and other celebrations. For example, during this period the city of Vimaranense 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
After Minho, how about going back in time? The Easter vacations could be the perfect opportunity to discover Portugal’s Historical Villages. But what are they? It’s a network created in 1991 with the aim of restoring and promoting historic places in Beira.
Each one is small in size but big in meaning. What’s more, they are all very special and unique. In other words, a great reason to “dive” into the interior of Portugal and get to know its medieval charms, the villages with stone and/or schist houses, as well as its humble people.
We’ve been to all 12 of Portugal’s Historic Villages and, although we liked them all, we’d like to highlight the following:
- Sortelha;
- Marialva;
- Almeida;
- Trancoso;
- Castelo Rodrigo;
- Monsanto.
What are you waiting for to hit the road? It’s time to rediscover these ancient landscapes! What’s more, the gastronomy is incredible, with excellent cheese, charcuterie and meat options. A look at “deep Portugal”, but with a charisma like no other.
Porto and its surroundings
Every day, we write with passion and pride about Invicta. We like to explore every nook and cranny of the city, to contemplate its gardens and monuments , but also to “discover” its most secret places.
For those who live here, it’s an unparalleled blessing, but if you’re from outside Porto and you’re thinking of coming here for the Easter vacations, then pay attention!
Porto
Speaking of religious sites in the city, we believe that a visit to the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls ) or the Sé Cathedral in Porto is (almost) obligatory . But, because the Easter vacations aren’t all about religious sites, there are a few spots we’d like you to get to know and/or experience.
For starters, if you’re looking for brunch and a good terrace to relax on, LM Art Kitchen, in the heart of Rua de Cedofeita, is our suggestion.
If you want to enjoy more of the charms of the River Douro on your Easter mini-vacation, then we recommend some boat trips.
One thing’s for sure, you can’t come to Porto without trying our famous wine or visiting one of the many cellars. After all, it’s almost like going to the Vatican and not seeing the Pope, don’t you think?
Caves Cálem: visita guiada com prova de vinhos e fado ao vivo
But if you’re one of those who prefers a good craft beer instead, take it easy. There’s no shortage of good places to cool off in Invicta. However, how about having a real beer experience with a visit to a brewery ?
Arouca and Aveiro
Arouca
Located in the Oporto 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 vacations in the middle of nature.
The municipality is famous for the Paiva Walkways. However, this is not the only “adventure” or outdoor attraction worth highlighting.
In this context, we also recommend, for example:
- The 516 Arouca – one of the largest suspended pedestrian bridges in the world;
- The magical abandoned village of Drave– perfect for those who enjoy long walks;
- The Pedras Parideiras – a rare phenomenon in the world;
- The Frecha da Mizarela waterfall.
And if you love food, then the municipality of Arouca also promises to surprise you with its recipes for veal arouquesa and its delicious convent sweets.
Aveiro
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 (and yes, it’s a traditional sweet and not a dish to fill you up for lunch or dinner), then it’s time you did.
As well as filling our bellies, Aveiro is a city that looks good in any photo. During the Easter vacations, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas, such as the Costa da Nova.
By the way, if you decide to go to Aveiro, take the opportunity to stop off in Ovar, where you’ll find the best sponge cake in the country (at least that’s what we think).
South of the country: Faro, Olhão and Vilamoura
By now, you’ve probably heard about the candlelit concerts that Fever is organizing in Vilamoura, but we’ll talk about that later.
For now, if you’ve chosen to turn downhill on your way out of Lisbon, and you’re heading for the Algarve, then we’ ve created an itinerary that’s perfect for enjoying the Easter vacations in the south of the country:
Faro
The capital of the Algarve region is Faro, a place with many things to visit, but still without many 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 the cobbled streets with an Arab door, considered a unique example in Portugal, will take you on a journey through history.
Still in Faro, and because it’s getting hotter and hotter, how about a visit to the famous Ilha de Faro. Here, as well as taking your first dip of the year (the water is always warmer here), you can enjoy the rich gastronomy of this part of the country, especially the fresh fish.
Olhão
Olhão is one of the Algarve towns that has gained some visibility in recent years.
Far from the tourist-filled metropolises of the Algarve, Olhão is a quieter town with an incredible gastronomy, largely due to the fact that it “sources” its food mainly from the marine richness of the famous Ria Formosa, from which we highlight the oysters and other bivalves, which fully satisfy us with their flavors reminiscent of summer days.
Touring the Ria Formosa is undoubtedly the plan we recommend, but don’t miss the Olhão Market, which is a unique experience in this town.
Divided into two types of food, the fruit and vegetable market and the fish market are two must-see places in Olhão. And on Saturdays there’s also an outdoor market, with producers from several nearby towns.
After shopping, in the area around these markets, there are restaurants, ice cream parlors and bars where you can enjoy one of the best and most incredible sunsets in the country.
Vilamoura
An itinerary from the north to the south of Portugal would naturally have to include Vilamoura. After all, this is one of the tourist destinations of choice, whether for Easter or summer vacations. summer.
Known for its large marina, golf courses and enchanting beaches, during Easter Week you’ll have the chance to experience Vilamoura in a different but equally magical way.
Whatever your destination for Easter or Easter Week, we believe this guide will be your best friend. After all, from the north to the south of Portugal, there is no shortage of suggestions to suit all tastes.
Start planning your next trip now, alone or accompanied, because there’s nothing better than (re)discovering our beautiful country from side to side!
https://lisboasecreta.co/planos-pascoa/
This article was written by Valter Leandro and Filipa Santos Sousa.